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Dark Tide #3
Bottleneck
Womanizer. Player.
We all know them. And sometimes, we’ve loved one.
My first mistake was to trust the rocker with a charming smile. My second, believing he’d never hurt me.
My final mistake will not be to repeat steps one and two.
People change as they mature. They live, and they learn. Emery? He’s not one of those people.
He tells me that he needs me, and I wish I could say I didn’t feel the same.
Problem is, I’m also one of those people who never change. But I do learn …
And I know that the worst mistake I could make wouldn’t be to repeat the past.
It would be to let him go.
We all know them. And sometimes, we’ve loved one.
My first mistake was to trust the rocker with a charming smile. My second, believing he’d never hurt me.
My final mistake will not be to repeat steps one and two.
People change as they mature. They live, and they learn. Emery? He’s not one of those people.
He tells me that he needs me, and I wish I could say I didn’t feel the same.
Problem is, I’m also one of those people who never change. But I do learn …
And I know that the worst mistake I could make wouldn’t be to repeat the past.
It would be to let him go.
- GenresMusic
Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2020
About the author
Max Henry
41 books990 followersFacebook -> http://bit.ly/2F4XrG3
Instagram -> http://bit.ly/2ruERF3
Newsletter -> http://eepurl.com/gchq5z
Born and raised in Canterbury, New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. L
ife with two young children can be hectic at times and, although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing.
An avid lover of stories from a young age, she enjoys nothing more than to get lost in the pages while the characters dictate what direction she takes. Her favourite genre to write is young/new adult and the events in her stories may or may not be related to real life experiences (only she will ever know for sure). I
n her down time, Max can be found at her local gym brainstorming through a session with the weights. If not, she’s probably out drooling over one of many classic cars on show that she wishes she owned.
Instagram -> http://bit.ly/2ruERF3
Newsletter -> http://eepurl.com/gchq5z
Born and raised in Canterbury, New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. L
ife with two young children can be hectic at times and, although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing.
An avid lover of stories from a young age, she enjoys nothing more than to get lost in the pages while the characters dictate what direction she takes. Her favourite genre to write is young/new adult and the events in her stories may or may not be related to real life experiences (only she will ever know for sure). I
n her down time, Max can be found at her local gym brainstorming through a session with the weights. If not, she’s probably out drooling over one of many classic cars on show that she wishes she owned.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 24, 2020
Fantastic!!!
This book isn’t just about rockers and the people that hang off their stars. It’s really about trying for your dreams even if it doesn’t work out…at least you had the guts to try. You persevere through many things to make that dream a reality.
Emery made a big mistake years ago and Alice was caught up in that by him breaking her heart. Emery definitely chose the wrong woman and paid dearly for it during their ten years apart. He tried to survive his choice at the bottom of a bottle. Even though Emery and Alice were friends long before anything went deeper, they both were making the circuit with their bands trying for that one shot at making it in the music business. Emery got lucky and Alice struggled all of this time never giving up no matter what was thrown at her.
Now years later they meet up again and Emery thinks it’s a good idea to sleep with Alice’s bandmate. Not a winning idea but when everything seems hopeless it doesn’t really matter. Would Alice and Emery be able to overcome the last ten years or would Deanna, Emery’s evil choice, make it impossible for things to work out with all the under handed meddling she was doing to keep Emery under her thumb while her hand was in his… wallet?
This story is a rollercoaster ride of emotions which were intense, the forgotten events of the past heartbreaking and the totality of this book unforgettable. This is one book you truly don’t want to miss.
This book isn’t just about rockers and the people that hang off their stars. It’s really about trying for your dreams even if it doesn’t work out…at least you had the guts to try. You persevere through many things to make that dream a reality.
Emery made a big mistake years ago and Alice was caught up in that by him breaking her heart. Emery definitely chose the wrong woman and paid dearly for it during their ten years apart. He tried to survive his choice at the bottom of a bottle. Even though Emery and Alice were friends long before anything went deeper, they both were making the circuit with their bands trying for that one shot at making it in the music business. Emery got lucky and Alice struggled all of this time never giving up no matter what was thrown at her.
Now years later they meet up again and Emery thinks it’s a good idea to sleep with Alice’s bandmate. Not a winning idea but when everything seems hopeless it doesn’t really matter. Would Alice and Emery be able to overcome the last ten years or would Deanna, Emery’s evil choice, make it impossible for things to work out with all the under handed meddling she was doing to keep Emery under her thumb while her hand was in his… wallet?
This story is a rollercoaster ride of emotions which were intense, the forgotten events of the past heartbreaking and the totality of this book unforgettable. This is one book you truly don’t want to miss.
April 21, 2020
I love the emotional roller coaster that is a Max Henry book! She’s so real and raw with her characters! Each emotion is felt as if you were there living it yourself! No ones writing speaks to my soul like her writing does!
Emery’s story is not an easy one! He’s a man needing the love and friendship like that of a best friend but he’s looking in all the wrong places! Addicted to more than just booze Emery finds himself hitting rock bottom emotionally and finds himself chasing his past and fighting for what should be! Beautiful Alice is such a beautiful soul but her biggest pain in life is the day her best friend walked away! It’s a hurt that she’s carried and one she can’t run from!! When the hurts of the past come back in every way Alice has to decide if she’s ready to heal! Together these two are so beautiful! Theo openness and love for one another is one you can’t help but get caught up in! Forgiveness is beautiful but these two have a lot to say sorry for and they have to decide if their ready!
Emery’s story is not an easy one! He’s a man needing the love and friendship like that of a best friend but he’s looking in all the wrong places! Addicted to more than just booze Emery finds himself hitting rock bottom emotionally and finds himself chasing his past and fighting for what should be! Beautiful Alice is such a beautiful soul but her biggest pain in life is the day her best friend walked away! It’s a hurt that she’s carried and one she can’t run from!! When the hurts of the past come back in every way Alice has to decide if she’s ready to heal! Together these two are so beautiful! Theo openness and love for one another is one you can’t help but get caught up in! Forgiveness is beautiful but these two have a lot to say sorry for and they have to decide if their ready!
April 20, 2020
I have been eagerly awaiting this book, so I'm really excited that it's here! If you want a brutally raw and honest series then you're in the right place. The author has no qualms about ripping your heart out and making you cry. Thoroughly reccomend the first two books if you haven't read them yet.
Wow I knew from previous books that Emery was just as messed up and broken as the other members, if not more so, but MY heart breaks for him the state he is in beginning of the story and I know it will only get worse from here.
These characters amaze me in their strength of what they battle with and overcome. Although this book is a prime example of communication is key. You never know who is either rooting for you or plotting your demise.
This is a story that like the rest of the series you won't be able to put down, my lack of sleep can atest to that. Also hold onto your kindle or keep it on flat surface, you'll want to chuck it a fair bit.
There are a few unanswered questions you'll be left with but hoping they'll be answered in the last book...
4 solid stars.
Wow I knew from previous books that Emery was just as messed up and broken as the other members, if not more so, but MY heart breaks for him the state he is in beginning of the story and I know it will only get worse from here.
These characters amaze me in their strength of what they battle with and overcome. Although this book is a prime example of communication is key. You never know who is either rooting for you or plotting your demise.
This is a story that like the rest of the series you won't be able to put down, my lack of sleep can atest to that. Also hold onto your kindle or keep it on flat surface, you'll want to chuck it a fair bit.
There are a few unanswered questions you'll be left with but hoping they'll be answered in the last book...
4 solid stars.
May 7, 2020
Angsty rockstar romances make my day! This was another emotional rollercoaster ride from Max Henry, next book in her Dark Tide series with a second chance feel. Emery- sexy, mouthy, manho bass player has been mentality beaten down from a nasty relationship he's been stuck in for years, what a evil bitch this woman is. Yet, they keep going back for more- she takes and takes while he drinks to numb the pain she causes...and he let's her.
The one light he had in his life dimmed the moment his best friend and confidant, Alice, left him without an explanation years ago. Running into her on the same concert circuit makes him miss, hate and want to hurt her the same way she hurt him. What did he do wrong?
Wow, this one was unexpected, made me a little mad watching Emery put up with Deanna when everyone around him saw her for the user she was, but it was also very witty! Some of the one liners were a riot, even if the content was emotionally dark at times. Max's storytelling keeps you on your toes- will have you laughing one minute and wiping a tear the next!
Alice and Emery's mutual anger had them missing out on what could have been a beautiful relationship, way back when. It all began with the music they both loved as an anchor, along with hopes, dreams of the future and shared experiences but that had been blown to hell and needed some serious repair. Would trust and truth ever be part of their story?
If you are a fan of the Dark Tide series, you'll want to grab this one and get comfy for another wild ride on the their crazy train! Nicely done epilogue leaves room for more love, growth and self discovery for each of these uniquely different band members and their significant others. Loved it!
The one light he had in his life dimmed the moment his best friend and confidant, Alice, left him without an explanation years ago. Running into her on the same concert circuit makes him miss, hate and want to hurt her the same way she hurt him. What did he do wrong?
Wow, this one was unexpected, made me a little mad watching Emery put up with Deanna when everyone around him saw her for the user she was, but it was also very witty! Some of the one liners were a riot, even if the content was emotionally dark at times. Max's storytelling keeps you on your toes- will have you laughing one minute and wiping a tear the next!
Alice and Emery's mutual anger had them missing out on what could have been a beautiful relationship, way back when. It all began with the music they both loved as an anchor, along with hopes, dreams of the future and shared experiences but that had been blown to hell and needed some serious repair. Would trust and truth ever be part of their story?
If you are a fan of the Dark Tide series, you'll want to grab this one and get comfy for another wild ride on the their crazy train! Nicely done epilogue leaves room for more love, growth and self discovery for each of these uniquely different band members and their significant others. Loved it!
April 29, 2020
Emery is a Rockstar who may be a success professionally but the same can’t be said for his personal life. A decade earlier he made a choice that destroyed the one relationship that meant the most to him and he has regretted it ever since. He numbs his pain by immersing himself in the Rockstar lifestyle which includes excessive alcohol and women.
Alice is a musician as well but she has not found the same success that Emery has enjoyed but that doesn’t mean she is ready to give up her dream. Instead she does everything she can to change her course but reuniting with the man who broke her heart could either be the best thing to happen to her or the worst.
This story takes you on an emotional journey about love, healing and second chances between two people who are both damaged by their pasts.
Alice is a musician as well but she has not found the same success that Emery has enjoyed but that doesn’t mean she is ready to give up her dream. Instead she does everything she can to change her course but reuniting with the man who broke her heart could either be the best thing to happen to her or the worst.
This story takes you on an emotional journey about love, healing and second chances between two people who are both damaged by their pasts.
April 21, 2020
Emery’s story is finally here!
From the very first book in the Dark Tide series we saw glimpses of Emery. His attitude. His struggles. His messed up life.
Bottleneck was raw and intense. This book will leave you completely gutted.
The characters in this story amazed me. Their battles only made them stronger. It wasn’t an easy road.
Max Henry will break you before she puts you back together.
Another phenomenal story!!
From the very first book in the Dark Tide series we saw glimpses of Emery. His attitude. His struggles. His messed up life.
Bottleneck was raw and intense. This book will leave you completely gutted.
The characters in this story amazed me. Their battles only made them stronger. It wasn’t an easy road.
Max Henry will break you before she puts you back together.
Another phenomenal story!!
April 27, 2020
Emery and Alice were friends before getting involved in anything romantic. They both are trying to make music their career. Emery takes off but Alice struggles for years and never gives up. The choices that Emery makes lead to heartbreak for the couple. The wrong woman leads Emery to the bottom of a bottle and an emotional freefall. Can the two become a couple or even friends after ten years? A stunning good read about life, love and overcoming obstacles.
April 22, 2020
The wait for this third book in the Dark Tide series had left me a little bereft for their world; but Max Henry sure hasn't disappointed in delivering with Emery's book.
This is a story of bitter reconnection that's founded on misconceptions, misunderstanding, and ultimate missed opportunity, and the resultant punishment and pain the star-crossed lead characters put each other through as they battle back to one another.
Dark Tide's Bassist, Emery and Lead singer and guitarist of Letters From Alice, Alice, share history; as teens they developed a friendship bound by their passion for music and drive to make it an industry that can raise you to dizzying heights, or chew you up and spit you out just as quickly.
But events and miscommunication drove a wedge between these two, leaving a chasm of hurt and anger; at the centre of which is the issue of addiction.
Boy, is this guy a contradiction of scarred, hardened outer shell and broken tender soul underneath, the product of his tumultuous relationships, addiction and fears, ultimately poor decisions and verbal assaults that will have you love, hate and pity him in equal measure.
Conversely, Alice's tenacity was a beacon of light in this story; in her struggles with her flailing career, financial hardships and her seesawing love and hate for Emery.
She maintains such strength of focus, you're behind this woman 100% and want to see her triumph.
I enjoyed the resolution that their reconciliation brought at the end of the book as well as the closure and acceptance of other areas of their lives.
Not everybody gets exactly what they want in a happy ending, but ultimately it may well be what they need!
This was a rocky road filled with enormous emotional boulders and potholes that had to be navigated. Long sealed doors that had to be opened and dealt with and hurdles to get over, made even more complicated by Emery's vile excuse of a girlfriend, Deanna.
This uber she-villain was the thorn in my side in this tale! I hated her with a passion!
I initially didn't quite get their sustained relationship, when it was so clearly toxic and in decay.
I think I would have like to have seen her get exactly was she deserved in the end, though as it felt a little unresolved, but perhaps we're yet to see the last of her?
However, this was not enough to take away from the impact and brilliance of this story that still earns 5 stars from me! And still, we have Toby's story to come, I can't wait!!
This is a story of bitter reconnection that's founded on misconceptions, misunderstanding, and ultimate missed opportunity, and the resultant punishment and pain the star-crossed lead characters put each other through as they battle back to one another.
Dark Tide's Bassist, Emery and Lead singer and guitarist of Letters From Alice, Alice, share history; as teens they developed a friendship bound by their passion for music and drive to make it an industry that can raise you to dizzying heights, or chew you up and spit you out just as quickly.
But events and miscommunication drove a wedge between these two, leaving a chasm of hurt and anger; at the centre of which is the issue of addiction.
Boy, is this guy a contradiction of scarred, hardened outer shell and broken tender soul underneath, the product of his tumultuous relationships, addiction and fears, ultimately poor decisions and verbal assaults that will have you love, hate and pity him in equal measure.
Conversely, Alice's tenacity was a beacon of light in this story; in her struggles with her flailing career, financial hardships and her seesawing love and hate for Emery.
She maintains such strength of focus, you're behind this woman 100% and want to see her triumph.
I enjoyed the resolution that their reconciliation brought at the end of the book as well as the closure and acceptance of other areas of their lives.
Not everybody gets exactly what they want in a happy ending, but ultimately it may well be what they need!
This was a rocky road filled with enormous emotional boulders and potholes that had to be navigated. Long sealed doors that had to be opened and dealt with and hurdles to get over, made even more complicated by Emery's vile excuse of a girlfriend, Deanna.
This uber she-villain was the thorn in my side in this tale! I hated her with a passion!
I initially didn't quite get their sustained relationship, when it was so clearly toxic and in decay.
I think I would have like to have seen her get exactly was she deserved in the end, though as it felt a little unresolved, but perhaps we're yet to see the last of her?
However, this was not enough to take away from the impact and brilliance of this story that still earns 5 stars from me! And still, we have Toby's story to come, I can't wait!!
April 20, 2020
This is a fantastic series about the musicians in the band Dark Tide, and I have been eagerly waiting to hear bad boy Emery’s story... the wait is final over. Woohoo!
Oh boy, Emery Morgan is a true bag of attitude and big troublemaker to boot but I felt sorry for him right from the beginning in the first book because you could tell he was screaming out for more in his life- he just didn’t seem to know when to keep his trap shut. Annoying Alice seems to be his new thing, a past that creeps up to bite them both in the their behinds.
Alice is a struggler, we don’t get to know as much about her until much further in the book and even then it’s not a huge amount but I could connect with her character easily and empathise with her readily. She has an amazing inner strength which she’s needed to rely on consistently throughout her life yet still has the capacity to give to others.
The relationship between the two lead characters is the primary concern in this book but there are a lot of other areas as well. Linked into everything are the things from the previous two books which is an incredible feat of its own. Then there’s the serious issues of manipulation, abuse and low self-confidence that are explored without it being in your face, I applaud this author for the way she went about it.
This fast paced book just flies by so quickly because once you start you are absorbed and literally don’t want to put it down. I totally recommend it but if you haven’t read the previous books I suggest you do that as the series is terrific and you gain much better clarity knowing the entire story. Bring on Toby’s story.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
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Oh boy, Emery Morgan is a true bag of attitude and big troublemaker to boot but I felt sorry for him right from the beginning in the first book because you could tell he was screaming out for more in his life- he just didn’t seem to know when to keep his trap shut. Annoying Alice seems to be his new thing, a past that creeps up to bite them both in the their behinds.
Alice is a struggler, we don’t get to know as much about her until much further in the book and even then it’s not a huge amount but I could connect with her character easily and empathise with her readily. She has an amazing inner strength which she’s needed to rely on consistently throughout her life yet still has the capacity to give to others.
The relationship between the two lead characters is the primary concern in this book but there are a lot of other areas as well. Linked into everything are the things from the previous two books which is an incredible feat of its own. Then there’s the serious issues of manipulation, abuse and low self-confidence that are explored without it being in your face, I applaud this author for the way she went about it.
This fast paced book just flies by so quickly because once you start you are absorbed and literally don’t want to put it down. I totally recommend it but if you haven’t read the previous books I suggest you do that as the series is terrific and you gain much better clarity knowing the entire story. Bring on Toby’s story.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest |
April 20, 2020
Bottleneck is a gritty, enemies to lovers rockstar romance that will draw you in from the first page and leave you breathless until the very end. I devoured this book in one sitting as this author’s way with words is enthralling. She has an amazing ability to create interesting and entertaining stories complete with complex characters that are both raw and real. Emery's and Alice's characters are skillfully well developed and I love the masterful way the author weaves together such an emotionally charged story.
A standalone novel in the Dark Tide series, Bottleneck follows bassist Emery and his love interest Alice. Emery’s character is beautifully complicated and perfectly flawed. A tortured soul. A broken bad boy. This rockstar exasperated me at times all while also wanting to envelop him in a protective hug. I absolutely loved Alice for her strength of character and kind hearted soul as she also struggles in a different way. These two have a history together and it was interesting to witness how everything played out. Their life journeys are full of trial and tribulations. Life is messy and as such, so is navigating the road to happiness. These two characters will reach into your soul and make you feel. This is not your typical rockstar romance nor is it a lighthearted one. There is heartbreak as well as healing and hope.
To me, I felt that a huge chunk of the book was more about the journey in each of their individual lives more so than the romantic aspect of their relationship. Not that this is a bad thing as I really enjoyed how the author illustrated all that was going on with Emery and with Alice. More than anything I would have liked perhaps a few more chapters or maybe a longer epilogue - because I love these characters so much and also because a few things weren’t completely tied up.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this enemies to lovers book and I cannot wait to see what this author has in store for us next! If you like rockstar romances or any of this author’s previous novels in the series, then you will not want to miss out on Bottleneck.
I read a complimentary version of this book
A standalone novel in the Dark Tide series, Bottleneck follows bassist Emery and his love interest Alice. Emery’s character is beautifully complicated and perfectly flawed. A tortured soul. A broken bad boy. This rockstar exasperated me at times all while also wanting to envelop him in a protective hug. I absolutely loved Alice for her strength of character and kind hearted soul as she also struggles in a different way. These two have a history together and it was interesting to witness how everything played out. Their life journeys are full of trial and tribulations. Life is messy and as such, so is navigating the road to happiness. These two characters will reach into your soul and make you feel. This is not your typical rockstar romance nor is it a lighthearted one. There is heartbreak as well as healing and hope.
To me, I felt that a huge chunk of the book was more about the journey in each of their individual lives more so than the romantic aspect of their relationship. Not that this is a bad thing as I really enjoyed how the author illustrated all that was going on with Emery and with Alice. More than anything I would have liked perhaps a few more chapters or maybe a longer epilogue - because I love these characters so much and also because a few things weren’t completely tied up.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this enemies to lovers book and I cannot wait to see what this author has in store for us next! If you like rockstar romances or any of this author’s previous novels in the series, then you will not want to miss out on Bottleneck.
I read a complimentary version of this book
April 24, 2020
Coming face to face with the past, but moving on..?
Wow, Max Henry’s Dark Tide series is brutal, raw and most definitely does not sugar coat the imperfections of the music industry’s worst players. So honest, you could almost call it a study in damaging human behaviour and relationships. The song references also give an insight into Ms Henry’s absolute passion for music and her characters as I read the books about the Band that I love so much.
It’s Emery’s turn, and we get to see the train wreck that is his relationship with Deanna, the psychotic-girlfriend who has dogged him through two books, since Dark Tide were signed eight years ago.
As much as I admired Emery for finally taking back his life and asking for help, I couldn’t like him. He absolutely was an addict and embraced the rock star lifestyle and everything it had to offer, but even as he struggled in his recovery, I found no redeeming features in him that had me changing my mind.
It’s been eight years since Alice learned her lesson about him the first time around, and I genuinely liked and admired her. In losing Emery under the circumstances that she did, I can see why she didn’t overshare feelings or friendships, but she seemed lonely and sad. And also like the nicest person to not have anybody decent in her corner. Emery was just awful to her, and while he said seeing her made him want to make changes in himself, I didn’t feel any chemistry between them. Life has been tough for her. He wouldn’t know it, because he’d excised her so completely from his life. Dark Tide made it, but her band didn’t.
What this book did stand out to me for is it’s a fine example in showcasing that not all abusers wear the same disguise, nor is their abuse always physical and able to be seen. Some wear lipstick and heels, and the damage done in undermining confidence and stealing visions of a future without them is as caging as any physical restraint. Escape planning and support is just as important.
While I some unaddressed questions, I highly recommend this book as necessary reading for those who the love imperfect rockers and Max Henry’s Dark Tide series. 4 Stars 🎶
Wow, Max Henry’s Dark Tide series is brutal, raw and most definitely does not sugar coat the imperfections of the music industry’s worst players. So honest, you could almost call it a study in damaging human behaviour and relationships. The song references also give an insight into Ms Henry’s absolute passion for music and her characters as I read the books about the Band that I love so much.
It’s Emery’s turn, and we get to see the train wreck that is his relationship with Deanna, the psychotic-girlfriend who has dogged him through two books, since Dark Tide were signed eight years ago.
As much as I admired Emery for finally taking back his life and asking for help, I couldn’t like him. He absolutely was an addict and embraced the rock star lifestyle and everything it had to offer, but even as he struggled in his recovery, I found no redeeming features in him that had me changing my mind.
It’s been eight years since Alice learned her lesson about him the first time around, and I genuinely liked and admired her. In losing Emery under the circumstances that she did, I can see why she didn’t overshare feelings or friendships, but she seemed lonely and sad. And also like the nicest person to not have anybody decent in her corner. Emery was just awful to her, and while he said seeing her made him want to make changes in himself, I didn’t feel any chemistry between them. Life has been tough for her. He wouldn’t know it, because he’d excised her so completely from his life. Dark Tide made it, but her band didn’t.
What this book did stand out to me for is it’s a fine example in showcasing that not all abusers wear the same disguise, nor is their abuse always physical and able to be seen. Some wear lipstick and heels, and the damage done in undermining confidence and stealing visions of a future without them is as caging as any physical restraint. Escape planning and support is just as important.
While I some unaddressed questions, I highly recommend this book as necessary reading for those who the love imperfect rockers and Max Henry’s Dark Tide series. 4 Stars 🎶
April 20, 2020
This is a fantastic series about the musicians in the band Dark Tide, and I have been eagerly waiting to hear bad boy Emery’s story... the wait is final over. Woohoo!
Oh boy, Emery Morgan is a true bag of attitude and big troublemaker to boot but I felt sorry for him right from the beginning in the first book because you could tell he was screaming out for more in his life- he just didn’t seem to know when to keep his trap shut. Annoying Alice seems to be his new thing, a past that creeps up to bite them both in the their behinds.
Alice is a struggler, we don’t get to know as much about her until much further in the book and even then it’s not a huge amount but I could connect with her character easily and empathise with her readily. She has an amazing inner strength which she’s needed to rely on consistently throughout her life yet still has the capacity to give to others.
The relationship between the two lead characters is the primary concern in this book but there are a lot of other areas as well. Linked into everything are the things from the previous two books which is an incredible feat of its own. Then there’s the serious issues of manipulation, abuse and low self-confidence that are explored without it being in your face, I applaud this author for the way she went about it.
This fast paced book just flies by so quickly because once you start you are absorbed and literally don’t want to put it down. I totally recommend it but if you haven’t read the previous books I suggest you do that as the series is terrific and you gain much better clarity knowing the entire story. Bring on Toby’s story.
Oh boy, Emery Morgan is a true bag of attitude and big troublemaker to boot but I felt sorry for him right from the beginning in the first book because you could tell he was screaming out for more in his life- he just didn’t seem to know when to keep his trap shut. Annoying Alice seems to be his new thing, a past that creeps up to bite them both in the their behinds.
Alice is a struggler, we don’t get to know as much about her until much further in the book and even then it’s not a huge amount but I could connect with her character easily and empathise with her readily. She has an amazing inner strength which she’s needed to rely on consistently throughout her life yet still has the capacity to give to others.
The relationship between the two lead characters is the primary concern in this book but there are a lot of other areas as well. Linked into everything are the things from the previous two books which is an incredible feat of its own. Then there’s the serious issues of manipulation, abuse and low self-confidence that are explored without it being in your face, I applaud this author for the way she went about it.
This fast paced book just flies by so quickly because once you start you are absorbed and literally don’t want to put it down. I totally recommend it but if you haven’t read the previous books I suggest you do that as the series is terrific and you gain much better clarity knowing the entire story. Bring on Toby’s story.
April 26, 2020
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Womanizer. Player. We all know them. And sometimes, we've loved one. My first mistake was to trust the rocker with a charming smile. My second, believing he'd never hurt me. My final mistake will not be to repeat steps one and two. People changed as they mature. They live, and they learn. Emery? He's not one of those people. He tells me that he needs me, and I wish I could say I didn't feel the same. Problem is, I am also one of those people who never change. But I do learn. And i know that the worst mistake I could make wouldn't be to repeat the past. It would be to let him go.
This book is one heck of an emotional roller coaster. This is the story of Emery who is a man that is in desperate need for friendship and love. He doesn't have a best friend and needs one bad. However he has an addiction problem and is about to hit rock bottom. However he just can not stop chasing the past. Alice though is a beautiful soul who was destroyed the day her best friend walked away. She carries this hurt around with her daily. Can these two heal each other and find something magical? You have to read to find out. I thought this story was so beautiful and emotional. I had a lump in my throat many many times reading this book. I thought it was a beautiful story and I am so glad that I got to read it.
Womanizer. Player. We all know them. And sometimes, we've loved one. My first mistake was to trust the rocker with a charming smile. My second, believing he'd never hurt me. My final mistake will not be to repeat steps one and two. People changed as they mature. They live, and they learn. Emery? He's not one of those people. He tells me that he needs me, and I wish I could say I didn't feel the same. Problem is, I am also one of those people who never change. But I do learn. And i know that the worst mistake I could make wouldn't be to repeat the past. It would be to let him go.
This book is one heck of an emotional roller coaster. This is the story of Emery who is a man that is in desperate need for friendship and love. He doesn't have a best friend and needs one bad. However he has an addiction problem and is about to hit rock bottom. However he just can not stop chasing the past. Alice though is a beautiful soul who was destroyed the day her best friend walked away. She carries this hurt around with her daily. Can these two heal each other and find something magical? You have to read to find out. I thought this story was so beautiful and emotional. I had a lump in my throat many many times reading this book. I thought it was a beautiful story and I am so glad that I got to read it.
April 22, 2020
This is the third in the Dark Tide series, they are interconnected standalones that can be read in order; Down Beat, Amplifier and then Bottleneck.
I’m gonna start off by saying that it’s not what I was expecting. From what I have seen of Emery so far, well let’s be fair, he’s been a mess. Yep, he’s mostly been a mess, but he’s had a few amusing moments and some clarity splattered throughout. Enough to sort Kris out and get Rey through before sinking back into oblivion.
There is obviously quite a bit of history to cover between the 10 years he and Alice have been apart, as well as their history from before that. But that very history makes for some funny and emotional moments in it’s own right.
We got to 80% and I thought, no way is she going to be able to wrap all this up before 100%. I was pretty much adamant I was going to be left with a cliffhanger but … I wasnt. Get ready foe a serious ride people, Emery isn’t taking any prisoners!
I cant wait to see what is going on with Toby, hes been elusive in the last two books and I’m hoping iping that’s because hes all tied up over a girl. We can live to dream right?
I’m gonna start off by saying that it’s not what I was expecting. From what I have seen of Emery so far, well let’s be fair, he’s been a mess. Yep, he’s mostly been a mess, but he’s had a few amusing moments and some clarity splattered throughout. Enough to sort Kris out and get Rey through before sinking back into oblivion.
There is obviously quite a bit of history to cover between the 10 years he and Alice have been apart, as well as their history from before that. But that very history makes for some funny and emotional moments in it’s own right.
We got to 80% and I thought, no way is she going to be able to wrap all this up before 100%. I was pretty much adamant I was going to be left with a cliffhanger but … I wasnt. Get ready foe a serious ride people, Emery isn’t taking any prisoners!
I cant wait to see what is going on with Toby, hes been elusive in the last two books and I’m hoping iping that’s because hes all tied up over a girl. We can live to dream right?
April 25, 2020
Angsty, raw, passionate and incredible. The Dark Tide men are a difficult group of men to understand, but the right women can make the most irritating men come around. Emery is a good friend that takes his band mate Kris to reunite with the woman he loves. What he didn't know was that he was going to come face to face with the love he has always denied was there, Alice. She used to be his best friend until he made a choice that pushed her away. Now they have to face the past and it's not gonna be pretty. Emery fights with addiction and is fighting for a way to get past it. Maybe that is why she enters his life again now. There are a lot of things unsaid and the pressure to find out the truth is building. You can feel it build in every conversation and with every turn of the page. Secrets can be landmines. Will theirs destroy them? Emery and Alice are those wonky puzzle pieces that just fit. Can they find the way they fit together? You gotta read this one!
April 28, 2020
HOLY HELL! Emery was a hero who definitely kept my blood up to boiling levels cover to cover. He's done nothing but hurt Alice over & over & over again so I wasn't a fan whatsoever. Alice was caught in the crossfire of something when they were younger, and it totally broke her heart completely. Yeah, Emery paid some too but he deserved every bit of it & more to be honest. Now, 10 years later, Alice is still trying to make it big with her music, while Emery did get lucky when they come across each other's paths again, and of course it's when he's hurting her again. I don't want to get into the details, just I don't forgive Emery for anything, and yet, I couldn't put this story down despite such a horrible hero, because it's more than just a romance at the end of the day. So, hit those one click buttons because you may love Emery, but you'll definitely love Alice! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
June 25, 2020
So I've done a bit of a binge read of this series the last few days and as much as I've really enjoyed the first 2 books this one was my favourite by far.
I love a lost broken guy at the best of times but Emery had me hooked the first time I read about him in Reys book...something about him drew me right in needing to know his story!
So many times while reading I wanted to punch Deanna clean in the throat knowing exactly what she was doing to Emery but even I didn't think shes stoop as low as she did!
Love the chemistry between these guys.. the background the only issue is I wanted more!
What happened in LA?
What happened to the sister?
I need more LOL
Look forward to Toby's book coming out!
*Read as part of KU*
I love a lost broken guy at the best of times but Emery had me hooked the first time I read about him in Reys book...something about him drew me right in needing to know his story!
So many times while reading I wanted to punch Deanna clean in the throat knowing exactly what she was doing to Emery but even I didn't think shes stoop as low as she did!
Love the chemistry between these guys.. the background the only issue is I wanted more!
What happened in LA?
What happened to the sister?
I need more LOL
Look forward to Toby's book coming out!
*Read as part of KU*
April 21, 2020
Raw and gritty are words that are very fitting for this story—this series, really. Addiction and abuse are at the forefront of this book. It has led to a lot of hurt and misunderstanding—and keeps on with the hurt when Emery keeps doing things like drunk texting then forgetting. Alice keeps trying to let him in and he keeps throwing it back at her. Deanna is a horrible person, not that Emery is a good one. The couple paragraphs Emery really thinks about his situation at the party is very profound, but sad because he still is stuck there in his head. I love that Emery has a real support system, even when he doesn’t recognize it. I also love that a Like A Storm reference was thrown in that would only be recognized by a fan of the band. This author never disappoints me.
April 26, 2020
Dares To Be Different
Never make the mistake of picking up a Dark Tide book
expecting the norm in the rock genre.
Sure there’s excess and band drama but this book especially takes a look at what if. Emery and Alice have history that is explored without working backwards through the past but eight years of hatred, misunderstandings and sabotage are dealt with here in a way that focuses on failings and how to come out on the other side. A unique way of telling a story and that’s what made this a terrific book. I am looking forward to Toby’s story and hopefully see Fria again with the Lords of London.
Never make the mistake of picking up a Dark Tide book
expecting the norm in the rock genre.
Sure there’s excess and band drama but this book especially takes a look at what if. Emery and Alice have history that is explored without working backwards through the past but eight years of hatred, misunderstandings and sabotage are dealt with here in a way that focuses on failings and how to come out on the other side. A unique way of telling a story and that’s what made this a terrific book. I am looking forward to Toby’s story and hopefully see Fria again with the Lords of London.
April 26, 2020
This is the 3rd book in this awesome series and is Emery and Alice’s story. Emery who is the bassist form “Dark Tide” and Alice, lead singer and guitarist for Letters from Alice” have a history, which has been damaged by miscommunication and life. No spoilers: this is a definite must read, you will not be disappointed. This is a beautifully written tale which is an emotional and rocky roller coaster ride, with hate, fear, addiction, passion, and is a raw, gritty and intense love story. I was completely captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and I cannot wait to read more from this gifted author.
September 11, 2020
Ok I didn’t totally hate this book but I didn’t love it. Emery is the sexy hot rockstar and he’s talented but a total waste of space. He’s a drunk and mostly stoned through his whole life. Alice was his best friend and she was in love with him but it seems like he chose the crazy nut job Deanna and stayed attached to her for ten years. This story goes back and forward for ten years and Alice was a doormat. I have no clue what the deal was with her parents, that entire section made no sense at all. The end made even less sense then this story, I could have forgiven this story if the happy ending wasn’t like one page long. Sorry can’t recommend this book unless it’s free.
April 20, 2020
Not sure what it is about this series and author, but if you want raw gritty emotions as well as an amazingly great read then this is the series for you. This book shows what happens when friends become enemies and choices came back to haunt us. Nothing is as it seems and mistakes only lead to more heartache and despair, Is the road back as simple as wanting it to be so? I dont do spoilers so you will have to read the book to find out.
April 22, 2020
Talk about emotional, this story had all the feels... Emery the bad boy of the group, he's attitude personified. But he's more than that in telling his story we get the behind the scenes view that will shatter your heart as we find out more about the man behind the bravado! His muse or his ex best friend Alice returns and sparks fly as they both battle their demons and each other! A spectacular story of beating the odds... these Dark Tide boys sure know how to steals hearts!!
April 25, 2020
Bad boy Emery gets his chance at redemption. This guy lived the “sex drugs & rock n roll” lifestyle to the fullest and it’s cost him plenty. Alice was his best friend when they started on the circuit but stuff got in the way. “Stuff” was drugs, alcohol and Deanna the enabler who kept her meal ticket Em well supplied. Great angst and soul searching story. I can’t wait for Toby’s story. I read this using my KU subscription.
October 21, 2021
Idk how to feel about the fact that the main characters never had sex with each other, they didn't even kiss, I think. But we did have these kind of scenes with Deanna. I mean, I have no problem with main characters having sex and stuff with someone else if the hero and heroine, in this case, haven't anything going on between them, but... Forget the sex, they didn't even kissed, lol
I didn't like that Deanna hadn't paid for her actions
I didn't like that Deanna hadn't paid for her actions
August 11, 2020
I'm mixed. It's pretty realistic but I don't like Emery. So it's not very "romantic" but there is happy ending. Emery has a real problem with alcohol. I don't think author sugar coated it because it causes real problems in his life
Alice is scrappy but no good luck really come her way. So it's gritty. No warm fuzzy.
Alice is scrappy but no good luck really come her way. So it's gritty. No warm fuzzy.
April 27, 2020
I really enjoyed the 3rd instalment to the Dark Tide series. Every book tackles a different emotion that at times we all feel and I'm sure can relate to. This is what made Em so likable and relatable. This book is full of twist and turns and I throughly enjoyed the ride!
May 1, 2020
What can I say, this book affected me in ways others don't. I was an emotional wreck throughout and I loved every bit of it. I know how I felt reading this amazing story, I can only imagine how the author was feeling writing it. Great job!!
March 10, 2021
What a long, choppy, uneventful story just to get to a quick and undetailed epilogue that didn't give any thought to resolving Alice's family issues.
So now we have to suffer through Toby's book to find out "what happened in LA" which probably won't be revealed until the last few chapters.
So now we have to suffer through Toby's book to find out "what happened in LA" which probably won't be revealed until the last few chapters.
March 3, 2022
No puedo creer lo que leer.
Me dio mucha tristeza y enojo ver a Alice arrastrarse por un tipo que no vale la pena. Odio que hagan a las protagonistas debilidades, sin carácter, manipulables y que mendiguen por amor.
Me dio mucha tristeza y enojo ver a Alice arrastrarse por un tipo que no vale la pena. Odio que hagan a las protagonistas debilidades, sin carácter, manipulables y que mendiguen por amor.
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