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The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor #7
The Gritty Truth
Recovering drug addict Quincy Gritt has fought his demons. He’s confessed to his crimes and conquered his addictions. He’s finally ready to go after sweet, sexy Roni, the gorgeous brunette who won a date with him in a charity auction five months ago and has been putting him off, and driving him wild, ever since.
Dancer Veronica “Roni” Wescott worked hard to escape the seedy area where she was raised and followed her dreams to Julliard, only to have them shattered in the blink of an eye. She fought hard and regained her footing, but then the rug was pulled out from under her again when the grandmother who raised her passed away, leaving Roni feeling adrift in a world she knows very little about outside of dance. And then there's Charlie Hunnam–lookalike Quincy Gritt—the man whose late-night texts pulled her through her grief and have been setting her heart aflutter for months.
Quincy pulls out all the stops, determined to prove that their friendship is only the beginning of what’s destined to be so much more. Romantic nights lead to smoldering passion and a deep connection too strong to be denied. But when Quincy’s past comes back to haunt him, can he and Roni accept their new gritty truth, or will Quincy spiral back into the darkness and lose the future he fought so hard to have?
Dancer Veronica “Roni” Wescott worked hard to escape the seedy area where she was raised and followed her dreams to Julliard, only to have them shattered in the blink of an eye. She fought hard and regained her footing, but then the rug was pulled out from under her again when the grandmother who raised her passed away, leaving Roni feeling adrift in a world she knows very little about outside of dance. And then there's Charlie Hunnam–lookalike Quincy Gritt—the man whose late-night texts pulled her through her grief and have been setting her heart aflutter for months.
Quincy pulls out all the stops, determined to prove that their friendship is only the beginning of what’s destined to be so much more. Romantic nights lead to smoldering passion and a deep connection too strong to be denied. But when Quincy’s past comes back to haunt him, can he and Roni accept their new gritty truth, or will Quincy spiral back into the darkness and lose the future he fought so hard to have?
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2020
1163 people are currently reading
2609 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Foster
192 books11.8k followersNEW YORK TIMES, WALL STREET JOURNAL, and USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
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Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.
Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com
Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.
Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.
"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose
"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge
Never miss a release! Follow Melissa here on Amazon and sign up for her newsletter: https://MelissaFoster.com/Newsletter
Start FIVE of Melissa's series FREE in ebook format here: https://MelissaFoster.com/LIBFREE
FREE Love in Bloom Family Trees: https://MelissaFoster.com/RG
FREE Series Reading Order Checklist: https://MelissaFoster.com/SeriesCheck...
FREE Series Order Checklist by Publication Date (recommended): https://melissafoster.com/SeriesCheck...
Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.
Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com
Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.
Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.
"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose
"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
October 2, 2020
***5 “I Want Us to Be a Given” & “Booful” Stars***
Truth: Ever since meeting Quincy in Tru Blue, I was wondering if he would ever get his own HEA, so to say I was all kinds of happy to get my hands on this book is an understatement
(And, yes, I was all kinds of happy that it also meant that I would get more Truman because he’s all kinds of bookboyfriendgoodness) and I was not disappointed at all.
I was surprised ~ pleasantly so ~ and my cheeks hurt from all the grinning, and I did get sniffly and teary at certain points ~ but I loved getting to know Quincy and meet the girl who brought him to his knees.
I adored Quincy and Roni. Quincy has been to hell and back and has truly come out stronger for it. He’s sweet, compassionate and honest, but what I loved the most about him was how he didn’t hide from those he called his own. Roni is a sweetheart. She is something of an enigma because it’s hard to put her in a box. She’s naive about some things and way too worldly about others, but she has this will to live that rivals most.
Their journey to their HEA was all kinds of fun. A lot of what made it a ‘grinning so much it made my cheeks hurt grin was that they were both on the same learning curve when it came to figuring things out. I loved their flow. Their bantering was on point, chemistry off the charts and I loved how they truly communicated with each other about the things that mattered the most. They definitely had things to work through, and there were a couple of situations that even surprised me, but I loved how everything worked out for them.
But of course, as much as I loved Quincy and Roni, I cannot deny that getting to hang out with the Whiskey’s, Dark Knights and their friends and family made me all kinds of happy. Kennedy and Lincoln kinda stole the show in this one, but I loved catching up with all of them and just seeing how their relationships have grown and changed as time has gone on. And as for what’s coming up next in the Whiskey world...I’m all about Penny and Scott, but it’s Diesel I can’t wait to get my hands on because that man is all kinds of broody goodness!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
Truth: Ever since meeting Quincy in Tru Blue, I was wondering if he would ever get his own HEA, so to say I was all kinds of happy to get my hands on this book is an understatement
(And, yes, I was all kinds of happy that it also meant that I would get more Truman because he’s all kinds of bookboyfriendgoodness) and I was not disappointed at all.
I was surprised ~ pleasantly so ~ and my cheeks hurt from all the grinning, and I did get sniffly and teary at certain points ~ but I loved getting to know Quincy and meet the girl who brought him to his knees.
I adored Quincy and Roni. Quincy has been to hell and back and has truly come out stronger for it. He’s sweet, compassionate and honest, but what I loved the most about him was how he didn’t hide from those he called his own. Roni is a sweetheart. She is something of an enigma because it’s hard to put her in a box. She’s naive about some things and way too worldly about others, but she has this will to live that rivals most.
Their journey to their HEA was all kinds of fun. A lot of what made it a ‘grinning so much it made my cheeks hurt grin was that they were both on the same learning curve when it came to figuring things out. I loved their flow. Their bantering was on point, chemistry off the charts and I loved how they truly communicated with each other about the things that mattered the most. They definitely had things to work through, and there were a couple of situations that even surprised me, but I loved how everything worked out for them.
But of course, as much as I loved Quincy and Roni, I cannot deny that getting to hang out with the Whiskey’s, Dark Knights and their friends and family made me all kinds of happy. Kennedy and Lincoln kinda stole the show in this one, but I loved catching up with all of them and just seeing how their relationships have grown and changed as time has gone on. And as for what’s coming up next in the Whiskey world...I’m all about Penny and Scott, but it’s Diesel I can’t wait to get my hands on because that man is all kinds of broody goodness!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
December 5, 2021
Oh this book had me in tears. Quincy is such a sweet heart. I love him to pieces. And Roni... she is such a wonderful heroine. Putting her trust on Quincy and love him with her whole heart.
Miss Foster brings out family and love in Gritty Truth. Such a poignant reminder in this holiday season. Life is hard. It is so good to have someone who hold you and stand by you.
Overall this is a wonderful book.
4 stars
Miss Foster brings out family and love in Gritty Truth. Such a poignant reminder in this holiday season. Life is hard. It is so good to have someone who hold you and stand by you.
Overall this is a wonderful book.
4 stars
October 7, 2020
The emotions will run HIGH when you delve into the latest from Melissa Foster, talk about shedding tears because I did. The subject matter is confronting, but it is so well written you can't help but be swept up in Quincy's journey. Seeing how far he's come is pure magic. The strength in the lead's character blew me away. He's made peace with his choices, his past, but that's not to say it's magically erased that will never happen. It's part of what makes this man who he is today.
When he had to tell Roni about his past that there was it for me. That made him a man that cemented what I feel makes a fantastic lead. Even with the reservations he felt he knew it was the right thing to do, to lay it out for her. Roni's reaction was emotional. I loved that she was able to see past that and see what he'd become now. Though still unsure she took the chance on him and how couldn't she. The way this man is with her is swoon worthy.
I read a lot of books, and I found with Quincy his heart was pure. His traits are what make you believe there is good in the world. Maybe its what he lived through that made him that way. Living that life I can't even begin to imagine what it'd be like. It makes me thankful for what I have.
His honesty, the way he looks at life now, and how he still deals with it on a daily basis is really remarkable. The support he has in the secondary characters his family and friends that won't let him slip is solid. It was great to see these faces again and see where they are now. The dialogue was perfection, the story was beautiful and the continuity with past characters was on point.
This is what makes me love this genre, authors that can make you feel and give you a story that makes you think and feel about life. These characters are relatable.
When he had to tell Roni about his past that there was it for me. That made him a man that cemented what I feel makes a fantastic lead. Even with the reservations he felt he knew it was the right thing to do, to lay it out for her. Roni's reaction was emotional. I loved that she was able to see past that and see what he'd become now. Though still unsure she took the chance on him and how couldn't she. The way this man is with her is swoon worthy.
I read a lot of books, and I found with Quincy his heart was pure. His traits are what make you believe there is good in the world. Maybe its what he lived through that made him that way. Living that life I can't even begin to imagine what it'd be like. It makes me thankful for what I have.
His honesty, the way he looks at life now, and how he still deals with it on a daily basis is really remarkable. The support he has in the secondary characters his family and friends that won't let him slip is solid. It was great to see these faces again and see where they are now. The dialogue was perfection, the story was beautiful and the continuity with past characters was on point.
This is what makes me love this genre, authors that can make you feel and give you a story that makes you think and feel about life. These characters are relatable.
October 8, 2020
I fell madly in love with Tru Blue. Honestly, Truman's story is one of my top 10 books and from there I was hooked on the Whiskey series. But from that first book, I have wanted Quincy's story.
I felt like I knew most of Quincy's story, but I knew it from Truman's point of view and I KNEW it would be an emotional ride. Everything he came through to get to this point made him someone so genuine and human. He had walked through fire and come out of it surrounded by the love and support of the Whiskey clan. I really loved him and his commitment to being the best version of himself he could be.
I don't really remember Roni but she was a great compliment for Quincy. She had walked through her own fire and come out solid. As beautiful inside as she was out. I loved how perfectly she fit in with everyone and how supportive she was of everything Quincy was going through.
This series is awesome. I love that they can be read in order, to give you this great family connection or as a complete standalone. And since I've read them as a series getting a little more of each couple with every book has been as great as watching the guys and girls on the outskirts take their turn at centre stage.
I'm not going to lie this was a lot less devastating than I was expecting. Which may have something to do with the fact I was expecting complete devastation. But I felt more uplifted by the fact they were both so solid. In their recoveries and in each other. And now I am dying to get Running on Diesel. He has been teasing me from the background and I can't wait to get to know him better.
I felt like I knew most of Quincy's story, but I knew it from Truman's point of view and I KNEW it would be an emotional ride. Everything he came through to get to this point made him someone so genuine and human. He had walked through fire and come out of it surrounded by the love and support of the Whiskey clan. I really loved him and his commitment to being the best version of himself he could be.
I don't really remember Roni but she was a great compliment for Quincy. She had walked through her own fire and come out solid. As beautiful inside as she was out. I loved how perfectly she fit in with everyone and how supportive she was of everything Quincy was going through.
This series is awesome. I love that they can be read in order, to give you this great family connection or as a complete standalone. And since I've read them as a series getting a little more of each couple with every book has been as great as watching the guys and girls on the outskirts take their turn at centre stage.
I'm not going to lie this was a lot less devastating than I was expecting. Which may have something to do with the fact I was expecting complete devastation. But I felt more uplifted by the fact they were both so solid. In their recoveries and in each other. And now I am dying to get Running on Diesel. He has been teasing me from the background and I can't wait to get to know him better.
October 15, 2020
GUTTED ME!!!
I stayed up all night to finish, I couldn't go to sleep until I knew how Quincy and Roni's story ended. This story was everything I love about Melissa Foster books, she gave us two lovable characters with heartbreaking pasts that they need to work through. For Roni it's recovering from a devastation that put her lifelong dreams in danger, and Quincy is a recovering drug addict.
Read more of my review and enter a #giveaway here: https://bit.ly/NBReviewTGT
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
I stayed up all night to finish, I couldn't go to sleep until I knew how Quincy and Roni's story ended. This story was everything I love about Melissa Foster books, she gave us two lovable characters with heartbreaking pasts that they need to work through. For Roni it's recovering from a devastation that put her lifelong dreams in danger, and Quincy is a recovering drug addict.
Read more of my review and enter a #giveaway here: https://bit.ly/NBReviewTGT
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
October 9, 2020
The Gritty Truth is a heartwarming, heart wrenching, heartbreaking, heart healing romance between two imperfect individuals who are just perfect for each other!
Throughout this excellent The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor series, I’ve grown to love Quincy and have rooted for him since he appeared in Tru Blue and has been sprinkled throughout the stories in the rest of the series. And, at last, it’s Quincy’s turn to find love and get to his happily ever after, but man it’s not an easy path!
Quincy Gritt has been through hell and back and has thrived since working to conquer his demons and wrangle control of his addiction. He’s fully supported by his brother, Truman and his wife, Gemma, as well as the rest of the Whiskeys and Dark Knights. No longer fighting his battles on his own, Quincy is ready to take the next step: find someone who’ll share his life and his future with. Someone who’ll love him despite his past and his ongoing recovery. And he’s found just the perfect woman—Veronica “Roni” Wescott—and he’ll do just about anything to convince her to take a chance on him.
But taking chances is not in Roni’s makeup. She’s careful, plodding, and prefers the safety of hiding behind her phone or computer screen versus taking a chance on finding love and a life beyond what she’s always known. But there’s just something about Quincy that Roni just can’t shake. And their connection and attraction to each other is undeniable.
I loved watching Quincy and Roni fall in love. How they bonded initially through their friendship and then moved on to something more. Their friendship and trust and honesty is the base of their romance. And it’s an amazing, strong foundation that’s supported by their family and friends. I loved seeing the Whiskey’s and Dark Knights embrace Roni and enfold her into their family. I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough to see how things between Quincy and Roni unfolded and resolved themselves. And I cannot wait for Penny and Scott’s and Diesel and Tracey’s stories next! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
Throughout this excellent The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor series, I’ve grown to love Quincy and have rooted for him since he appeared in Tru Blue and has been sprinkled throughout the stories in the rest of the series. And, at last, it’s Quincy’s turn to find love and get to his happily ever after, but man it’s not an easy path!
Quincy Gritt has been through hell and back and has thrived since working to conquer his demons and wrangle control of his addiction. He’s fully supported by his brother, Truman and his wife, Gemma, as well as the rest of the Whiskeys and Dark Knights. No longer fighting his battles on his own, Quincy is ready to take the next step: find someone who’ll share his life and his future with. Someone who’ll love him despite his past and his ongoing recovery. And he’s found just the perfect woman—Veronica “Roni” Wescott—and he’ll do just about anything to convince her to take a chance on him.
But taking chances is not in Roni’s makeup. She’s careful, plodding, and prefers the safety of hiding behind her phone or computer screen versus taking a chance on finding love and a life beyond what she’s always known. But there’s just something about Quincy that Roni just can’t shake. And their connection and attraction to each other is undeniable.
I loved watching Quincy and Roni fall in love. How they bonded initially through their friendship and then moved on to something more. Their friendship and trust and honesty is the base of their romance. And it’s an amazing, strong foundation that’s supported by their family and friends. I loved seeing the Whiskey’s and Dark Knights embrace Roni and enfold her into their family. I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough to see how things between Quincy and Roni unfolded and resolved themselves. And I cannot wait for Penny and Scott’s and Diesel and Tracey’s stories next! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
November 1, 2020
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.I have been looking forward to Quincy’s story from the moment I met him in Tru Blue. I knew from reading Tru Blue he had a horrible childhood with his teen years going on to adulthood being the worst experience of his life. Despite having this knowledge, I needed to learn about his past from his perspective and Gritty Truth delivered in this regard. The story turned out to be an emotional story that engaged the reader from start to finish. Tru Blue is still my number one book in the series with Gritty Truth coming a close second. It gave me all the feels and falling in love with Quincy and Roni came naturally.
Based on Quincy’s background, I expected an emotional read, and Gritty Truth did not disappoint. It was heartfelt, and I loved everything this story offered. I enjoyed spending time with the major characters and getting myself acquainted with every aspect of their lives. Quincy and Roni survived the terrors of their past, but they still carried the baggage associated with it. Quincy battles drug addiction daily and has reached his second year of being drug free. Roni had her dreams shattered but found a different outlet to use her talent. They were strong, determined and flawed individuals who made an adorable couple. They both had difficulties growing up, but seeing them discovering the beauty of first love and working through their issues made my heart leap for joy.
Quincy’s honesty, genuineness, kindness and thoughtfulness won me over. I admired him for revealing the truth to Roni, a moment which brought tears to my eyes, but what really tugged at my heartstrings was Roni’s unwavering support. She accepted him and never once did she doubt or judged him.
I had a blast revisiting with the Whiskeys. They are fun, non-judgemental, caring, always willing to help other and very supportive of family and friends.
Overall, I found Gritty Truth to be a beautiful and emotional story with characters who were easy to fall in love with. It ended on a beautiful note and had me eager for the next book in the series.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Based on Quincy’s background, I expected an emotional read, and Gritty Truth did not disappoint. It was heartfelt, and I loved everything this story offered. I enjoyed spending time with the major characters and getting myself acquainted with every aspect of their lives. Quincy and Roni survived the terrors of their past, but they still carried the baggage associated with it. Quincy battles drug addiction daily and has reached his second year of being drug free. Roni had her dreams shattered but found a different outlet to use her talent. They were strong, determined and flawed individuals who made an adorable couple. They both had difficulties growing up, but seeing them discovering the beauty of first love and working through their issues made my heart leap for joy.
Quincy’s honesty, genuineness, kindness and thoughtfulness won me over. I admired him for revealing the truth to Roni, a moment which brought tears to my eyes, but what really tugged at my heartstrings was Roni’s unwavering support. She accepted him and never once did she doubt or judged him.
I had a blast revisiting with the Whiskeys. They are fun, non-judgemental, caring, always willing to help other and very supportive of family and friends.
Overall, I found Gritty Truth to be a beautiful and emotional story with characters who were easy to fall in love with. It ended on a beautiful note and had me eager for the next book in the series.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
October 7, 2020
*4.5-5 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I've been very curious about Quincy's book since I read Tru Blue, and throughout the books about The Whiskey's. Tru Blue is one of my favourites, so I shouldn't be surprised that Quincy's book was amazing as well.
It was really interesting to get the other side of the story, after reading Tru's side. Those boys had really been dealt a short hand, and I wanted to Quincy to get his HEA just like Tru did. I really really liked both Roni and Quincy, and their story was both emotional and lots of fun.
I loved how honest Quincy is, and how much love and goodness he has about him, despite his past. Roni has her own issues from her past, and he supports her in those as well. There is so much love in this book, not just between our two main characters, but between all their family and friends. This series about the Whiskey's is one of my favourites, and I wish they were people I could truly meet in real life.
I had lots of emotions reading this, even times where I had a tear or two running down my face. But there were lots of funny moments too that brought plenty of smiles. I really enjoyed this one, and there are a couple of books coming which were set up in this too, and I look forward to those.
Really enjoy this series, and recommend!
Review also on my blog - The Gritty Truth by Melissa Foster
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ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I've been very curious about Quincy's book since I read Tru Blue, and throughout the books about The Whiskey's. Tru Blue is one of my favourites, so I shouldn't be surprised that Quincy's book was amazing as well.
It was really interesting to get the other side of the story, after reading Tru's side. Those boys had really been dealt a short hand, and I wanted to Quincy to get his HEA just like Tru did. I really really liked both Roni and Quincy, and their story was both emotional and lots of fun.
I loved how honest Quincy is, and how much love and goodness he has about him, despite his past. Roni has her own issues from her past, and he supports her in those as well. There is so much love in this book, not just between our two main characters, but between all their family and friends. This series about the Whiskey's is one of my favourites, and I wish they were people I could truly meet in real life.
I had lots of emotions reading this, even times where I had a tear or two running down my face. But there were lots of funny moments too that brought plenty of smiles. I really enjoyed this one, and there are a couple of books coming which were set up in this too, and I look forward to those.
Really enjoy this series, and recommend!
Review also on my blog - The Gritty Truth by Melissa Foster
Follow me on:
October 24, 2020
The Gritty Truth was the seventh book in The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor by Melissa Foster.
Quincy Gritt and Veronica “Roni” Westcot were introduced to us previously but they weren’t a couple yet. Foster took us through their friendship and relationship development while unraveling the many layers beneath each one.
I’ve waited so long for Quincy and it was well worth the wait. We met Quincy in book one, Tru Blue, when Quincy’s brother’s story, Truman, unfolded. Quincy was not a pretty picture at the time, but Foster blessed us with watching his progression through the series to the man that was brought to us in The Gritty Truth. For that reason alone, I recommend reading the series in order - or at least book one, prior to this one.
Overall, The Gritty Truth was a journey of hope and new beginnings. I enjoyed the man Quincy became and I enjoyed that Foster didn’t brush over addiction. No spoilers since we already knew about Quincy’s prior drug usage, but we now learned his every day struggles and his commitment to his family and friends. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey and OMG Lincoln and “booful” were a bonus! You have to read it to see!
Another success for Foster and I can’t wait to read more!
Quincy Gritt and Veronica “Roni” Westcot were introduced to us previously but they weren’t a couple yet. Foster took us through their friendship and relationship development while unraveling the many layers beneath each one.
I’ve waited so long for Quincy and it was well worth the wait. We met Quincy in book one, Tru Blue, when Quincy’s brother’s story, Truman, unfolded. Quincy was not a pretty picture at the time, but Foster blessed us with watching his progression through the series to the man that was brought to us in The Gritty Truth. For that reason alone, I recommend reading the series in order - or at least book one, prior to this one.
Overall, The Gritty Truth was a journey of hope and new beginnings. I enjoyed the man Quincy became and I enjoyed that Foster didn’t brush over addiction. No spoilers since we already knew about Quincy’s prior drug usage, but we now learned his every day struggles and his commitment to his family and friends. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey and OMG Lincoln and “booful” were a bonus! You have to read it to see!
Another success for Foster and I can’t wait to read more!
November 21, 2021
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
The Gritty Truth is one of the more recent releases in this series, and its book number seven and I can’t believe that I am almost all caught up in this series and I am kinda sad because I am not ready to say goodbye to this family because I just adore them. (I am not sure how many books there will be in this series, but you definitely won’t find me complaining if there are more) And I will say that even though this one wasn’t quite as good as some of the other books in the series I still seriously really ENJOYED this one and all the aspects that Melissa Foster was able to bring into this story here. It definitely has the level of sweetness and charm but there are some more serious topics. What I have come to respect from this author is that she isn’t afraid to touch base with challenging topics. And she does it so well in these books. I would definitely recommend the trigger warnings (Hint StoryGraph has them really well done if you can’t find them on Goodreads or the other bookish platforms you may use)
THE GRITTY TRUTH IS A CHALLENGING, HEART-STOPPING ROMANCE THAT WILL TURN YOUR HEART OVER THAT FEATURES:
Quincy Gritt– Brother to Tru Gritt, a recovering drug addict, found family in the Whiskey’s, hardworking and dedicated
Veronica “Roni” Wescott-a talented dancer, driven to succeed, sweet, and hairdresser
The Gritty Truth is a story that begins with seeing our hero and heroine dance around each other. Roni is a ballet dancer and also teaches dance as well. Roni has kept out of touch with the social circles and feels awkward going on dates and being in relationships. It’s definitely not her comfort zone and when the sexy Quincy comes around flirting and charming her socks off, it’s all she can do in order to maintain her distance. She doesn’t want to because she is strongly attracted to him, but she wonders what Quincy could ever see in her. But as she starts to soften her resolve around Quincy, some truths come to light about Quincy and it only makes her curious about him even more and wants to solidify their relationship. But he has enemies still and could spoil all the hopes for the future they have for each other….and will Roni stand by her man through the mountains they will have to overcome….
The Gritty Truth was such an endearing read and I truly adored this pairing together. I have been wanting to read Quincy’s book ever since we saw him so broken in the first book “Tru Blue” and man my heart in reading this book and seeing the tough journey that Quincy has gone through. Drug addiction is no joke and seeing him rise above it and fight for his girl and what they have found together was simply beautiful. My heart broke for him for the last hurdle they have to climb. This author sure knows how to tear my heart apart in ways I least expect. I swear I am NEVER ready for her books because they sing to me on a deeper level. I can guarantee that this one will definitely touch your heart. It starts out very sexy though, Quincy is a charming handsome fella and he isn’t afraid to use his charms to show his girl the depths of his feelings for her. He is so wonderful with children and seeing them connect in the sweetest of moments was a delight to see. I don’t know what it is about this series or maybe it’s just this author, I just see such a beautiful soul in each book that she writes.
Overall I found The Gritty Truth to be a story of wit and laughs, a quaint small-town setting, a close-knit family to bring a spring to your step, and a deeply pivoting romance to work its way to charm your heart.
THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
The Gritty Truth is one of the more recent releases in this series, and its book number seven and I can’t believe that I am almost all caught up in this series and I am kinda sad because I am not ready to say goodbye to this family because I just adore them. (I am not sure how many books there will be in this series, but you definitely won’t find me complaining if there are more) And I will say that even though this one wasn’t quite as good as some of the other books in the series I still seriously really ENJOYED this one and all the aspects that Melissa Foster was able to bring into this story here. It definitely has the level of sweetness and charm but there are some more serious topics. What I have come to respect from this author is that she isn’t afraid to touch base with challenging topics. And she does it so well in these books. I would definitely recommend the trigger warnings (Hint StoryGraph has them really well done if you can’t find them on Goodreads or the other bookish platforms you may use)
THE GRITTY TRUTH IS A CHALLENGING, HEART-STOPPING ROMANCE THAT WILL TURN YOUR HEART OVER THAT FEATURES:
Quincy Gritt– Brother to Tru Gritt, a recovering drug addict, found family in the Whiskey’s, hardworking and dedicated
Veronica “Roni” Wescott-a talented dancer, driven to succeed, sweet, and hairdresser
The Gritty Truth is a story that begins with seeing our hero and heroine dance around each other. Roni is a ballet dancer and also teaches dance as well. Roni has kept out of touch with the social circles and feels awkward going on dates and being in relationships. It’s definitely not her comfort zone and when the sexy Quincy comes around flirting and charming her socks off, it’s all she can do in order to maintain her distance. She doesn’t want to because she is strongly attracted to him, but she wonders what Quincy could ever see in her. But as she starts to soften her resolve around Quincy, some truths come to light about Quincy and it only makes her curious about him even more and wants to solidify their relationship. But he has enemies still and could spoil all the hopes for the future they have for each other….and will Roni stand by her man through the mountains they will have to overcome….
Recovery is not for the weak. We need clarity in order to accept what we did and find ways to forgive ourselves so we can move forward. We’ve all been there. Just remember, we are all far from perfect.
The Gritty Truth was such an endearing read and I truly adored this pairing together. I have been wanting to read Quincy’s book ever since we saw him so broken in the first book “Tru Blue” and man my heart in reading this book and seeing the tough journey that Quincy has gone through. Drug addiction is no joke and seeing him rise above it and fight for his girl and what they have found together was simply beautiful. My heart broke for him for the last hurdle they have to climb. This author sure knows how to tear my heart apart in ways I least expect. I swear I am NEVER ready for her books because they sing to me on a deeper level. I can guarantee that this one will definitely touch your heart. It starts out very sexy though, Quincy is a charming handsome fella and he isn’t afraid to use his charms to show his girl the depths of his feelings for her. He is so wonderful with children and seeing them connect in the sweetest of moments was a delight to see. I don’t know what it is about this series or maybe it’s just this author, I just see such a beautiful soul in each book that she writes.
Matters of the heart don’t run on a timeline, and they can’t be forced.
Overall I found The Gritty Truth to be a story of wit and laughs, a quaint small-town setting, a close-knit family to bring a spring to your step, and a deeply pivoting romance to work its way to charm your heart.
October 11, 2020
Hero totally devoted to the heroine.
Small pushing away from heroine to start.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Both have been celibate for some time.
Hero, 2 years as he it is part of his recovery programme for addicts.
Heroine had bad experience with sex in her college days.
HEA.
Small pushing away from heroine to start.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Both have been celibate for some time.
Hero, 2 years as he it is part of his recovery programme for addicts.
Heroine had bad experience with sex in her college days.
HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2020
‘The Gritty Truth’ is the fantastic seventh book in the Dark Knights Peaceful Harbour series by Melissa Foster, and it is one of those books where you finish reading and feel awfully sad it’s over.
I have been excitedly awaiting Quincy Gritt’s story ever since he was first introduced in ‘Tru Blue’, and ever since, whenever snippets of his progress have featured in other books in this series, I have pondered what his Happily Ever After would look like.
Quincy is a recovering addict and has his life on track. He has purpose, he has an abundance of love surrounding him, and all feels right in the world. He has been patiently awaiting his two year anniversary for being clean, in order to ask the girl of his dreams out in a date.
Roni is a dancer, she loves teaching children how to dance and is recovering from a car accident that shattered her dreams as well as her heart. She mourns the loss of her Grandmother, but finds solace in the man who sends her cheeky texts and sets her body alight with tingles.
Their connection is strong, the chemistry undeniable, and Quincy pursues her, ensuring that she no longer refuses his dates. He’s in it for more than attraction, he’s in it for love, and Roni very much makes him feel emotions he’s never embraced before.
With obstacles in their way, and insecurities, will they overcome challenges and give in to their happily ever after?
This book made for an incredible read, and I cannot put into words how utterly adorable and amazing Quincy is. He has a huge heart, and his story is raw, honest and emotional. As a reader you feel like you are fighting his will to remain clean alongside him, and you really want for him to succeed. Foster writes in a way that is truly beautiful, and I applaud her for always covering delicate topics in such and incredibly inspirational way. Quincy is by far one of my favourites, and his moments with Biggs and Red, Truman and Ronni are so heartfelt that it was hard not to feel emotionally affected.
I am so invested in these characters, and the descriptions enable me to vividly imagine all of them like a soap opera playing out in my mind. Perfect read for anyone wanting to try a new series, or read a good standalone. It’s a book for all, and I just love all of Fosters characters and their fictional worlds.
I have been excitedly awaiting Quincy Gritt’s story ever since he was first introduced in ‘Tru Blue’, and ever since, whenever snippets of his progress have featured in other books in this series, I have pondered what his Happily Ever After would look like.
Quincy is a recovering addict and has his life on track. He has purpose, he has an abundance of love surrounding him, and all feels right in the world. He has been patiently awaiting his two year anniversary for being clean, in order to ask the girl of his dreams out in a date.
Roni is a dancer, she loves teaching children how to dance and is recovering from a car accident that shattered her dreams as well as her heart. She mourns the loss of her Grandmother, but finds solace in the man who sends her cheeky texts and sets her body alight with tingles.
Their connection is strong, the chemistry undeniable, and Quincy pursues her, ensuring that she no longer refuses his dates. He’s in it for more than attraction, he’s in it for love, and Roni very much makes him feel emotions he’s never embraced before.
With obstacles in their way, and insecurities, will they overcome challenges and give in to their happily ever after?
This book made for an incredible read, and I cannot put into words how utterly adorable and amazing Quincy is. He has a huge heart, and his story is raw, honest and emotional. As a reader you feel like you are fighting his will to remain clean alongside him, and you really want for him to succeed. Foster writes in a way that is truly beautiful, and I applaud her for always covering delicate topics in such and incredibly inspirational way. Quincy is by far one of my favourites, and his moments with Biggs and Red, Truman and Ronni are so heartfelt that it was hard not to feel emotionally affected.
I am so invested in these characters, and the descriptions enable me to vividly imagine all of them like a soap opera playing out in my mind. Perfect read for anyone wanting to try a new series, or read a good standalone. It’s a book for all, and I just love all of Fosters characters and their fictional worlds.
October 4, 2020
4.5 stars
The Gritty Truth by Melissa Foster is a beautifully written, heartfelt read.
The storyline is enjoyable from start to end, it's emotional, sweet and watching Quincy and Roni's relationship unfold kept me turning the pages.
These two were perfect for each other, I loved their honesty, they supported and encouraged each other through their darkest times and they loved each other unconditionally.
Their story touched my heart, I was happy they were able to put the demons behind them and enjoy their bright future together.
The Gritty Truth is a wonderful addition to the The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor series and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
The Gritty Truth by Melissa Foster is a beautifully written, heartfelt read.
The storyline is enjoyable from start to end, it's emotional, sweet and watching Quincy and Roni's relationship unfold kept me turning the pages.
These two were perfect for each other, I loved their honesty, they supported and encouraged each other through their darkest times and they loved each other unconditionally.
Their story touched my heart, I was happy they were able to put the demons behind them and enjoy their bright future together.
The Gritty Truth is a wonderful addition to the The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor series and I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
October 9, 2020
Hard to take
I’ll admit, this one was rough on me. I have read the whole series and I really loved Tru when I met him. It was a little hard not to see Quincy as a bad guy. But after he got into rehab I started to root for him. Thinking that he might backslide wasn’t something I wanted to consider.
Then, when I met Roni I was thinking that there was no way that he would do that to her. But, as usual in this series, the author wove a complicated, multi dimensional story, filled with both joy and despair; tears and laughter.
I loved it and I would recommend it to everyone. I can’t wait to read more!
I’ll admit, this one was rough on me. I have read the whole series and I really loved Tru when I met him. It was a little hard not to see Quincy as a bad guy. But after he got into rehab I started to root for him. Thinking that he might backslide wasn’t something I wanted to consider.
Then, when I met Roni I was thinking that there was no way that he would do that to her. But, as usual in this series, the author wove a complicated, multi dimensional story, filled with both joy and despair; tears and laughter.
I loved it and I would recommend it to everyone. I can’t wait to read more!
October 14, 2020
Melissa Foster seems to be hitting all my emotional hot spots lately. The last few books I’ve read by her have been deeply emotional for me because some of the aspects have mirrored my real life. Real life in the present and not the past.
Quincy Gritt
is someone I know very well. I have to commend Melissa for representing his struggles realistically and respectfully. His struggles will always be lurking in the shadows but as you read his story you will learn the beauty all around him that will help keep those struggles in the shadows. Addiction is not something ones cures or gets over, it’s a disease with no cure, only management options.
Roni Wescott
is also someone I know well. Actually, I know her intimately because, reasons. Their story was an emotional rollercoaster for me even when it didn’t want to be. That’s just the way the story fell for me and it was all so relatable that while my heart broke for all the things, it sang for them as well and it carried hope for all the things. It was a glorious blend of all the things!
I loved reading the development, or rather journey, between Quincy and Roni mostly because it didn’t miss a step. They began with a strong friendship connection that developed to more, organically and with conviction. Together with the support system they had, they were unstoppable. Their relationship flourished as a slow-burn romance and it was perfection. They just kept building on their foundation with honesty and hope. They were absolutely perfect and their story fit them very well. Well done once again Ms. Foster!
AVAILABLE NOW!
➜KINDLE: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Kindle
➜APPLE: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Apple
➜NOOK: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Nook
➜KOBO: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Kobo
➜GPLAY: http://smarturl.it/TGT_GPlay
➜PAPERBACK: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Pb
Audio pre-order coming soon!
➜AMAZON: https://smarturl.it/TGTa_Amazon
➜APPLE: https://smarturl.it/TGTa_Apple
➜AUDIBLE:https://smarturl.it/TGTa_Audible
I loved reading the development, or rather journey, between Quincy and Roni mostly because it didn’t miss a step. They began with a strong friendship connection that developed to more, organically and with conviction. Together with the support system they had, they were unstoppable. Their relationship flourished as a slow-burn romance and it was perfection. They just kept building on their foundation with honesty and hope. They were absolutely perfect and their story fit them very well. Well done once again Ms. Foster!
AVAILABLE NOW!
➜KINDLE: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Kindle
➜APPLE: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Apple
➜NOOK: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Nook
➜KOBO: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Kobo
➜GPLAY: http://smarturl.it/TGT_GPlay
➜PAPERBACK: http://smarturl.it/TGT_Pb
Audio pre-order coming soon!
➜AMAZON: https://smarturl.it/TGTa_Amazon
➜APPLE: https://smarturl.it/TGTa_Apple
➜AUDIBLE:https://smarturl.it/TGTa_Audible
June 20, 2022
If you have read the other books in the Whisky series then you know Quincy Gritt. We first meet him in Tru Blue and learn his story. He has a troubled past but his brother Truman is always there to help him get through it. After a stint in rehab Quincy is getting his life back together. He wants to be a man that others can be proud of and wants to find that someone special.
Veronica has a past that is not like Quincy's but not glamorous either. She was a dancer who made it to Julliard with dreams of becoming a professional dancer. One day all that changed and her life was changed forever. Her hopes and dreams change and she has to work with her new reality. Her best friend wins her a date at a charity auction with Quincy. After months of texting and getting to know each other they finally go out on their date and they both realize how great a relationship can be.
This book is full of emotion. We get to catch up with our favorite Whiskey family which is always great. You will be hooked from the first chapter and not want to put it down. The narrators are great. Jacob Morgan is one of my favorites. His voice leaves you not wanting the story to end. Jennifer Mack was really good as well. I hope Melissa uses them again for other audio books.
Veronica has a past that is not like Quincy's but not glamorous either. She was a dancer who made it to Julliard with dreams of becoming a professional dancer. One day all that changed and her life was changed forever. Her hopes and dreams change and she has to work with her new reality. Her best friend wins her a date at a charity auction with Quincy. After months of texting and getting to know each other they finally go out on their date and they both realize how great a relationship can be.
This book is full of emotion. We get to catch up with our favorite Whiskey family which is always great. You will be hooked from the first chapter and not want to put it down. The narrators are great. Jacob Morgan is one of my favorites. His voice leaves you not wanting the story to end. Jennifer Mack was really good as well. I hope Melissa uses them again for other audio books.
December 13, 2020
I didn’t feel any great connection between the h and H. The ending was also VERY abrupt. The conflict is resolved, then bam ending and NO EPILOGUE! This book 100% needed an epilogue in order to receive a higher rating for me but unfortunately that didn’t happen 🤷🏼♀️
October 10, 2020
A good book, but almost too sweet for my taste. I loved that Quincy was such a stand-up guy and his relationship with Roni was beautiful, but it was almost too heavy on the feelings in my opinion.
October 9, 2020
ARC received for an honest review
Ever since I read Tru Blue all those years ago, I have been waiting for Quincy Gritty's story. Tru Blue is still my favourite Melissa Foster book - ever I was disappointed with The Gritty Truth.
Throughout the Whiskey series, we have learned little bits about Quincy, though we have always learned things from Truman or others POV. Now we have the whole shebang from Quincy's story, and, as I knew it would be, it was heartbreaking and beatiful and sad - and hopeful.
Both Quincy and Roni have had a crappy time in the past, and it was wonderful to see them pull each other through. They are each other's anchor in a turbulent world.
I loved the honesty of this story. Quincy hides nothing, owns his mistakes, and is the kind of person all of us should aspire to be like. He is full of love. Oh boy, did he make my heart swell at times.
I liked how our lovelies didn't just fall into bed. They have a slow burn of a relationship, that only bursts into flame when they really, really know each other. Roni's strength shines through as the story progresses.
I love, love, loved getting more of my man Truman Gritt, along with his family, and the extended family of Peaceful Harbor.
There is one thing though - and I feel that this is more my thing with Ms Foster's books and it probably does not bother any one else - the past few books, including The Gritty Truth - get to a stage in the story where the leading characters are just cruising, and it feels like it is just filler. Our characters are in their happy and just living life. Nothing wrong with that, however I feel that we could probably have about 10% of the book cut and it would be just as enjoyable. Again, this is just my musings, my thing.
I am looking forward to more in these worlds.
Ever since I read Tru Blue all those years ago, I have been waiting for Quincy Gritty's story. Tru Blue is still my favourite Melissa Foster book - ever I was disappointed with The Gritty Truth.
Throughout the Whiskey series, we have learned little bits about Quincy, though we have always learned things from Truman or others POV. Now we have the whole shebang from Quincy's story, and, as I knew it would be, it was heartbreaking and beatiful and sad - and hopeful.
Both Quincy and Roni have had a crappy time in the past, and it was wonderful to see them pull each other through. They are each other's anchor in a turbulent world.
I loved the honesty of this story. Quincy hides nothing, owns his mistakes, and is the kind of person all of us should aspire to be like. He is full of love. Oh boy, did he make my heart swell at times.
I liked how our lovelies didn't just fall into bed. They have a slow burn of a relationship, that only bursts into flame when they really, really know each other. Roni's strength shines through as the story progresses.
I love, love, loved getting more of my man Truman Gritt, along with his family, and the extended family of Peaceful Harbor.
There is one thing though - and I feel that this is more my thing with Ms Foster's books and it probably does not bother any one else - the past few books, including The Gritty Truth - get to a stage in the story where the leading characters are just cruising, and it feels like it is just filler. Our characters are in their happy and just living life. Nothing wrong with that, however I feel that we could probably have about 10% of the book cut and it would be just as enjoyable. Again, this is just my musings, my thing.
I am looking forward to more in these worlds.
October 12, 2020
I’m a big Melissa Foster fan. I’ve read at least 90% of her 100 plus book Love in Bloom series. I’ve read all of the Whiskey Dark Knight books. The Gritty Truth was a good book but for me not one of my favorites. I loved the lead characters Quincey Gritt who has been in this series since the first book Tru-Blue his older brother Truman’s and Gemma's book. As comes out in this story I had thought Quincy would end up with Penny the pretty ice cream shop owner but like everyone else I was wrong. They’re just friends. I loved how Quincy was so open and honest and working so hard to build a good life for himself after overcoming a terrible childhood and drug addiction. I loved the female lead Veronica “Roni” Westcott who is a new character. I loved how Roni’s character grew and became more self-confident and assertive. I loved that the author managed to introduce all the other couples from the early books in the series to those who haven’t read their stories and gave the rest of us who have a chance to catch up with them. My problem is the happily ever after we all read contemporary romance for, (other than the steamy sexy scenes), just didn’t leave me happy enough for our couple.
Quincy Gritt has had a horrendously tough life. Born to a crack whore mother he has only his nine years older brother Truman to help him grow up. At 13 years old Truman takes the fall for Quincy who kills his mother’s pimp when he sees him both raping and strangling her. Because his mother hates Truman she lies on the stand saying she wasn’t in any danger and Truman gets 8 years in prison for killing her pusher. Quincy is lost without Truman and over wrought with guilt for Truman taking the punishment for what he did. His mother puts a crack pipe in his hand and Quincy spends the next 6 years in the throws of drug addiction before he hits rock bottom and goes to rehab. Now it’s 2 years after rehab and Quincy has been clean and sober building a life for himself when he sees Roni whose friends win a date for her with him in a bachelor auction. As the story opens its been 6 months since the auction and Roni still won’t agree to go out with Quincy even though they talk to each other and text each other frequently.
Roni Westcott’s life hasn’t been a bowl of cherries either. She never knew her mother. Her alcoholic father leaves her with her grandmother to be raised in a tough crime infested neighborhood. Blessed with exceptional talent and unmatched determination she sacrificed a normal childhood to pursue her dreams of getting into Julliard. She graduates from Julliard at the top of her class and secures a position with a NYC dance company. Home to celebrate with her grandmother she gets hit by a car when the driver is struck by a stray bullet. She’s so badly injured she has to learn to walk all over again. Her body is scarred and her injuries are so severe that she has no hope of returning to the highest levels of professional dance. She takes a position as a dance instructor at the dance school in Peaceful Harbor where she first learned to dance. She’s been able to readjust her goals and is happy to be teaching others how to dance and find the joy in it that she has always felt. In that regard both she and Quincy are survivors. But they both carry baggage from their past. Roni has no social life. She spent most of her childhood honing her dance skills so she has little experience with the opposite sex although she’s had enough to not be a virgin if not very experienced. Add to that she’s self-conscious about her scared body. Her only family member her beloved grandmother has recently passed leaving her with just her BFF from childhood Angela who also teaches at the school and the school’s owner Elise as a circle of friends. And Angela is now engaged and spends most of her free time with her fiancée Joey. I don’t really remember Angela and Joey so if they were in a previous book as I suspect they were, I must have missed it.
Enter Quincy whom after reaching his two years of sobriety is ready to push Roni to get that date her friend paid for. Despite Roni’s insecurities they fall “in like” after only a couple of dates. Then Quincy reveals his past to her and Roni has to decide whether she wants to be in a relationship with an addict in recovery who can’t promise her he’ll never relapse even though he’s had no desire or cravings to do drugs again. After some soul searching, talking with her friends and researching recovery from addiction Roni determines Quincy is worth the risk. They spend every minute together they’re not working in and out of bed where Roni quickly discovers the joys of great sex. Roni is introduced to the Whiskey clan who quickly adopts her into their large but close knit group. “In like” falls quickly into “In Love” although neither is ready to tell the other. And this is one of the things that drives me crazy in not only this story but in many contemporary romances.
Now I’m going to discuss why I felt a bit disappointed with the ending. To do so I must reveal a key part of the story so don’t read this if you haven’t already read the story and don’t want a big part of the plot revealed.
Good story, I just thought at least for me the ending lacked the happily ever after for the couple I wanted to see.
Quincy Gritt has had a horrendously tough life. Born to a crack whore mother he has only his nine years older brother Truman to help him grow up. At 13 years old Truman takes the fall for Quincy who kills his mother’s pimp when he sees him both raping and strangling her. Because his mother hates Truman she lies on the stand saying she wasn’t in any danger and Truman gets 8 years in prison for killing her pusher. Quincy is lost without Truman and over wrought with guilt for Truman taking the punishment for what he did. His mother puts a crack pipe in his hand and Quincy spends the next 6 years in the throws of drug addiction before he hits rock bottom and goes to rehab. Now it’s 2 years after rehab and Quincy has been clean and sober building a life for himself when he sees Roni whose friends win a date for her with him in a bachelor auction. As the story opens its been 6 months since the auction and Roni still won’t agree to go out with Quincy even though they talk to each other and text each other frequently.
Roni Westcott’s life hasn’t been a bowl of cherries either. She never knew her mother. Her alcoholic father leaves her with her grandmother to be raised in a tough crime infested neighborhood. Blessed with exceptional talent and unmatched determination she sacrificed a normal childhood to pursue her dreams of getting into Julliard. She graduates from Julliard at the top of her class and secures a position with a NYC dance company. Home to celebrate with her grandmother she gets hit by a car when the driver is struck by a stray bullet. She’s so badly injured she has to learn to walk all over again. Her body is scarred and her injuries are so severe that she has no hope of returning to the highest levels of professional dance. She takes a position as a dance instructor at the dance school in Peaceful Harbor where she first learned to dance. She’s been able to readjust her goals and is happy to be teaching others how to dance and find the joy in it that she has always felt. In that regard both she and Quincy are survivors. But they both carry baggage from their past. Roni has no social life. She spent most of her childhood honing her dance skills so she has little experience with the opposite sex although she’s had enough to not be a virgin if not very experienced. Add to that she’s self-conscious about her scared body. Her only family member her beloved grandmother has recently passed leaving her with just her BFF from childhood Angela who also teaches at the school and the school’s owner Elise as a circle of friends. And Angela is now engaged and spends most of her free time with her fiancée Joey. I don’t really remember Angela and Joey so if they were in a previous book as I suspect they were, I must have missed it.
Enter Quincy whom after reaching his two years of sobriety is ready to push Roni to get that date her friend paid for. Despite Roni’s insecurities they fall “in like” after only a couple of dates. Then Quincy reveals his past to her and Roni has to decide whether she wants to be in a relationship with an addict in recovery who can’t promise her he’ll never relapse even though he’s had no desire or cravings to do drugs again. After some soul searching, talking with her friends and researching recovery from addiction Roni determines Quincy is worth the risk. They spend every minute together they’re not working in and out of bed where Roni quickly discovers the joys of great sex. Roni is introduced to the Whiskey clan who quickly adopts her into their large but close knit group. “In like” falls quickly into “In Love” although neither is ready to tell the other. And this is one of the things that drives me crazy in not only this story but in many contemporary romances.
Now I’m going to discuss why I felt a bit disappointed with the ending. To do so I must reveal a key part of the story so don’t read this if you haven’t already read the story and don’t want a big part of the plot revealed.
Good story, I just thought at least for me the ending lacked the happily ever after for the couple I wanted to see.
October 7, 2020
What can I say about this absolutely outstanding, emotional book?
WOW, WOW, WOW may not be enough!!
When I read A Little Bit Wicked I thought Melissa could not do better, I am pleased to say I was completely and utterly wrong!
This book will put you through the wringer, the emotions pour through the page straight to your heart and leave you emotionally drained, in a good way of course.
Although we knew a little of Quincy's past after reading Tru Blue, reading his full story and what he went through broke my heart.
Quincy knew opening up and telling Roni everything may lose one of the most important people in his life but he could not move forward without admitting everything and being honest. He is trying to move past his demons to be the man he wants to be for Roni and is rebuilding his life slowly. Quincy loves with his whole heart and is determined to not go back to his previous life for the sake of his family, Roni and more importantly himself. What he has been through and how he helps others will endear you to him even more.
Roni has not had an easy life herself and when she finds out about Quincy's past she needs time to process but once she realises she cannot live without him her love and support is second to none. Roni goes above and beyond for the man she loves and when their pasts collide their love just grows even stronger. Roni may have come across as shy and meek when she first met Quincy but this girl has so much more to give. I officially love Roni and I can say with 100% certainty she is my favourite heroine!
There really are not enough words for me to describe how much I love this book. I always knew Melissa was a brilliant writer but when a book like The Gritty Truth is released and you cannot speak because the emotions are absorbed in your skin you know you have an author who is incredible at what she does!
I cannot stress enough how much you NEED to read this book, you will not be disappointed!
WOW, WOW, WOW may not be enough!!
When I read A Little Bit Wicked I thought Melissa could not do better, I am pleased to say I was completely and utterly wrong!
This book will put you through the wringer, the emotions pour through the page straight to your heart and leave you emotionally drained, in a good way of course.
Although we knew a little of Quincy's past after reading Tru Blue, reading his full story and what he went through broke my heart.
Quincy knew opening up and telling Roni everything may lose one of the most important people in his life but he could not move forward without admitting everything and being honest. He is trying to move past his demons to be the man he wants to be for Roni and is rebuilding his life slowly. Quincy loves with his whole heart and is determined to not go back to his previous life for the sake of his family, Roni and more importantly himself. What he has been through and how he helps others will endear you to him even more.
Roni has not had an easy life herself and when she finds out about Quincy's past she needs time to process but once she realises she cannot live without him her love and support is second to none. Roni goes above and beyond for the man she loves and when their pasts collide their love just grows even stronger. Roni may have come across as shy and meek when she first met Quincy but this girl has so much more to give. I officially love Roni and I can say with 100% certainty she is my favourite heroine!
There really are not enough words for me to describe how much I love this book. I always knew Melissa was a brilliant writer but when a book like The Gritty Truth is released and you cannot speak because the emotions are absorbed in your skin you know you have an author who is incredible at what she does!
I cannot stress enough how much you NEED to read this book, you will not be disappointed!
October 3, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the seventh book in the series - I absolutely recommend that you read them in order -but at the very least read book 1 where we get to understand much more of Quincy's past. I am a huge fan of Melissa Foster, and love how she has broadened out the Whiskey family to include the reformed Quincy, thanks to his brother Truman, who's story is told in Tru Blue.
It is a fine balance that Quincy has achieved over the last few years. His brother and adopted family have given him the chance that was not afforded him as a child. He is holding down a job, supporting his brother in bringing up their very young siblings, and acting as a sponsor for someone at NA. He is on a new path, and sets his sights on the beautiful dancer, Roni.
As we get to know both these people, who have suffered much tribulation, we cannot help but want them to find love - but Roni has to take a huge leap of faith when Quincy is honest about his past. I loved her attitude, and support, as well as her research and commitment. I thought that Foster did an amazing job of writing about how shocked she was, how convinced Quincy was that she would walk away, and how actually she needed time to process.
It really was a gritty story, but so worth reading, and I am already excited about the next book in the series, whenever it may be released!
This is the seventh book in the series - I absolutely recommend that you read them in order -but at the very least read book 1 where we get to understand much more of Quincy's past. I am a huge fan of Melissa Foster, and love how she has broadened out the Whiskey family to include the reformed Quincy, thanks to his brother Truman, who's story is told in Tru Blue.
It is a fine balance that Quincy has achieved over the last few years. His brother and adopted family have given him the chance that was not afforded him as a child. He is holding down a job, supporting his brother in bringing up their very young siblings, and acting as a sponsor for someone at NA. He is on a new path, and sets his sights on the beautiful dancer, Roni.
As we get to know both these people, who have suffered much tribulation, we cannot help but want them to find love - but Roni has to take a huge leap of faith when Quincy is honest about his past. I loved her attitude, and support, as well as her research and commitment. I thought that Foster did an amazing job of writing about how shocked she was, how convinced Quincy was that she would walk away, and how actually she needed time to process.
It really was a gritty story, but so worth reading, and I am already excited about the next book in the series, whenever it may be released!
October 6, 2020
The Gritt brothers have led lives that were turned up side down by their addicted mothers' bad choices. Truman Gritt served jail time for his younger brother Quincy, and Quincy is determined to now live a clean life in reparation for his wholly defensive crime. In the Whiskey family they found their tribe and are clearly in the inner fold of group, and Quincy has long been working to stay clean and to lead a productive life, contributing to the community.
With The Gritty Truth Melissa Foster delivers a wonderfully sweet and very sexy love story, where Quincy uses all his good natured and irresistible charms to win over dance instructor Roni Wescott. Though she initially fights it tooth and nail, Roni succumbs (and who wouldn't?) to Quincy and they begin building a solid foundation of friendship and passion.
There's not a overwhelming amount of angst in this story, but the strife they face is centered on both of their pasts. Both have been broken by the senseless acts of others, and both have lifelong issues they face, his with drug addiction, and hers due to a physical injury that affected her career as a dancer. But they are more than strong enough to overcome these issues, and they find in each other their soul mates. It's one of her equally sweeter love tale and more sensually explicit stories, and I found it a complete joy to read. 4 Stars and recommendation.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
With The Gritty Truth Melissa Foster delivers a wonderfully sweet and very sexy love story, where Quincy uses all his good natured and irresistible charms to win over dance instructor Roni Wescott. Though she initially fights it tooth and nail, Roni succumbs (and who wouldn't?) to Quincy and they begin building a solid foundation of friendship and passion.
There's not a overwhelming amount of angst in this story, but the strife they face is centered on both of their pasts. Both have been broken by the senseless acts of others, and both have lifelong issues they face, his with drug addiction, and hers due to a physical injury that affected her career as a dancer. But they are more than strong enough to overcome these issues, and they find in each other their soul mates. It's one of her equally sweeter love tale and more sensually explicit stories, and I found it a complete joy to read. 4 Stars and recommendation.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
October 17, 2020
Quincy has endured a childhood that no one should have to. The guilt and regrets of what transpired led to a downward spiral that resulted in a drug addiction that it would take years before he hit bottom and realized that he needed to make changes. He has now been sober for two years and is ready to pursue the woman who has claimed his heart but first he has to convince her to give him a chance.
Roni has a painful past of her own when an accident destroyed her dreams for the future. Her strength and resilience allowed her to overcome and she has created a new life for herself but the loss of the one person who always been there for her has rocked her world once again.
Quincy’s determination pays off and when he finally convinces Roni to go out with him and they are drawn to each other in a way that neither expected. Quincy wants to ensure that Roni knows everything about him and that includes his past but will this bring them closer or tear them apart?
The characters are both so strong and resilient as Roni and Quincy have overcome so much in their lives. The chemistry between them is intense, their interactions are humorous, but it is the emotional pull of the story that makes it so special. As always it is great to catch up with the other characters that we know and love.
Roni has a painful past of her own when an accident destroyed her dreams for the future. Her strength and resilience allowed her to overcome and she has created a new life for herself but the loss of the one person who always been there for her has rocked her world once again.
Quincy’s determination pays off and when he finally convinces Roni to go out with him and they are drawn to each other in a way that neither expected. Quincy wants to ensure that Roni knows everything about him and that includes his past but will this bring them closer or tear them apart?
The characters are both so strong and resilient as Roni and Quincy have overcome so much in their lives. The chemistry between them is intense, their interactions are humorous, but it is the emotional pull of the story that makes it so special. As always it is great to catch up with the other characters that we know and love.
October 4, 2020
A MUST READ! Absolutely heartbreakingly beautiful! So happy to see Quincy's story finally! Read my full review & my teaser on my BLOG -> CLICK HERE
October 7, 2020
The Gritty Truth by Melissa Foster is book 7 in The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor Series. This is the story of Veronica 'Roni' Wescott and Quincy Gritt. I have read the previous books which did add to my enjoyment of this one. But, I do feel you can make it a standalone book if you wish to do so...I just hate for you to miss this great series. Roni hasn't had a easy time with some of the things life has thrown at her, but she has worked try to keep moving forward. Quincy has made some bad choices that have left him working to straiten his life out which he has done and he is working to move forward. Quincy now wants to work toward claiming Roni as his own and keep moving forward. Ms. Foster has a way of writing that makes you feel the characters and what they are going through. This book took me into their story and I couldn't put it down. I loved it and I do recommend this author's writing and of course this book. Loved it!
November 1, 2020
3.5 stars. Despite being predictable, this story was enjoyable read. It flowed nicely and the story was sweet and touching.
November 27, 2020
Love Whilst In Recovery
It was so good to finally read Quincy’s story after falling for this family in Tru Blue. Quincy’s start in life was so terrible and he’s had such brutal things to cope with, that becoming an addict probably felt inevitable. His journey into recovery was covered in Tru Blue and he was so brave that wasn’t hard to fall for his character a little during that book. Seeing the man he became during recovery, in other books about this great group of people, was also a wonderful part of the series.
We first meet Roni in Dixie’s book, when her friends buy her a date with Quincy at the charity auction. Roni was resistant and put him off, especially after her grandmother, who raised her, died. They spent months texting and getting know each other and when Quincy was finally 2 years clean he started to pursue her more romantically.
This was a really really good book. It didn’t shy away from how difficult recovery from any addiction can be. I loved that Quincy was so dedicated to staying clean not just for his friends and family, but for himself. I loved that he also sponsored Simone through NA and ran meetings. This book showed that staying clean is a journey that never ends and that getting into a relationship with someone on that journey is not easy.
Roni has her own recovery from an accident which ended her very promising dance career. She spent a lot of time working her body to it’s limits to be able to dance again, even if it wasn’t professionally. I loved how she was with the kids in the dance classes she taught and with the kids in the Whiskey family, who are as always in the series, totally adorable.
This was a beautiful book about hard work, stretching for what you want and falling into the support of loving family and friends. It’s a very warm and loving book, with plenty of passion, but, most of all, hopes and dreams and fighting for them. You can’t help but feel warm and fuzzy after reading this book and I’m so pleased this is not the end of this series, even if I’ll have to wait until next year for the next full sized novel.
It was so good to finally read Quincy’s story after falling for this family in Tru Blue. Quincy’s start in life was so terrible and he’s had such brutal things to cope with, that becoming an addict probably felt inevitable. His journey into recovery was covered in Tru Blue and he was so brave that wasn’t hard to fall for his character a little during that book. Seeing the man he became during recovery, in other books about this great group of people, was also a wonderful part of the series.
We first meet Roni in Dixie’s book, when her friends buy her a date with Quincy at the charity auction. Roni was resistant and put him off, especially after her grandmother, who raised her, died. They spent months texting and getting know each other and when Quincy was finally 2 years clean he started to pursue her more romantically.
This was a really really good book. It didn’t shy away from how difficult recovery from any addiction can be. I loved that Quincy was so dedicated to staying clean not just for his friends and family, but for himself. I loved that he also sponsored Simone through NA and ran meetings. This book showed that staying clean is a journey that never ends and that getting into a relationship with someone on that journey is not easy.
Roni has her own recovery from an accident which ended her very promising dance career. She spent a lot of time working her body to it’s limits to be able to dance again, even if it wasn’t professionally. I loved how she was with the kids in the dance classes she taught and with the kids in the Whiskey family, who are as always in the series, totally adorable.
This was a beautiful book about hard work, stretching for what you want and falling into the support of loving family and friends. It’s a very warm and loving book, with plenty of passion, but, most of all, hopes and dreams and fighting for them. You can’t help but feel warm and fuzzy after reading this book and I’m so pleased this is not the end of this series, even if I’ll have to wait until next year for the next full sized novel.
March 22, 2023
Si vous suivez la série, c'est l'un des tomes que l'on attendait le plus car il concerne le petit frère de Tru (le héros du tome 1 attention risque de spoilers si vous ne l'avez pas lu) Quincy, ex-toxicomane, qui avait tué l'homme qui avait violé sa mère quand il avait 13 ans (et son frère s'était dénoncé à sa place). Rongé par le remord, il s'était alors lui aussi laissé entrainer par les drogues (poussé par sa propre mère) avant que Tru ne sorte, que sa mère ne meure et que tout change... Voici donc venu le temps de son histoire et de son bonheur et bien sûr, d'en apprendre encore plus sur cet homme adorable qui a fait ce qu'il fallait pour s'en sortir.
A la fin du tome 1, Quincy est battu presque à mort par un dealer et c'est ce qui va le pousser à réagir : il va avouer le crime qu'il a commis des années auparavant, réhabiliter son frère donc et partir en cure de désintoxication. Depuis sa sortie, il est impeccable et a repris une vie normale, soutenu par son frère et sa femme mais aussi la famille Whiskey : il a une place de libraire où il lit des histoires aux enfants, poursuit des études et bien sûr s'est fait des amis.
Depuis plusieurs tomes, on le voyait proche de Penny, une jeune femme qui tenait une boutique de glaces et on s'attendait à une histoire entre eux. Et bien non! On découvre qu'il est attiré par une jeune femme, Veronica aka Roni, une professeure de danse qui a gagné une soirée avec lui, lors d'une vente au profit du foyer, organisée par la famille Whiskey et notamment Dixie. Mais depuis, même s'ils échangent des sms, elle ne cesse de le repousser (et on ne sait pas vraiment pourquoi, (je vous le laisse découvrir) .
Mais Quincy est un homme extraordinaire, un homme que l'on ne peut qu'aimer depuis qu'il s'est repris en main et il va provoquer un peu le destin en lui donnant un rendez-vous, auquel elle ne peut se soustraire et à partir de là, tout va changer. Toutefois Roni ne connait pas son passé très lourd.. Pourra-t-elle accepter l'homme qu'il est avec ce lourd bagage? ou au contraire fuira-t-elle? elle voit bien que Quincy est aimé mais verra-t-elle à quel point il est devenu un être exceptionnel, qui mérite enfin le bonheur? Mais le jeune homme est aussi un parrain dans un centre de rééducation et l'une de ses protégées est menacée et le danger se rapproche à nouveau de lui : saura-t-il résister à la tentation ? Pourra-t-il protéger ceux qu'il aime et pourra-t-il se protéger? et bien vous le saurez en lisant ce roman magnifique et porteur d'espoir à bien des égards.
J'ai adoré qu'on suive les couples des tomes passés et qu'on voit se dessiner les prochains : Scott et Penny (ce sera une novella) et Diesel et Tracey (la serveuse du pub qui a un lourd passé ) C'est ce que je préfère chez elle, on suit les évolutions des personnages qu'on a aimés : les mariages, les grossesses, les futures amours..
Bref, j'ai aimé ce tome car il incarne tout ce que j'aime dans ce type de livre car non, ce ne sont pas que des romances: Il y a toujours des messages, l'on apprend et il y a des valeurs dans lesquelles chacun peut se reconnaître : la tolérance, le soutien, la famille, l'amour, l'amitié , qui, en ces temps difficiles sont précieux. Bravo pour ce nouveau tome et vivement le suivant.
chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2023/...
A la fin du tome 1, Quincy est battu presque à mort par un dealer et c'est ce qui va le pousser à réagir : il va avouer le crime qu'il a commis des années auparavant, réhabiliter son frère donc et partir en cure de désintoxication. Depuis sa sortie, il est impeccable et a repris une vie normale, soutenu par son frère et sa femme mais aussi la famille Whiskey : il a une place de libraire où il lit des histoires aux enfants, poursuit des études et bien sûr s'est fait des amis.
Depuis plusieurs tomes, on le voyait proche de Penny, une jeune femme qui tenait une boutique de glaces et on s'attendait à une histoire entre eux. Et bien non! On découvre qu'il est attiré par une jeune femme, Veronica aka Roni, une professeure de danse qui a gagné une soirée avec lui, lors d'une vente au profit du foyer, organisée par la famille Whiskey et notamment Dixie. Mais depuis, même s'ils échangent des sms, elle ne cesse de le repousser (et on ne sait pas vraiment pourquoi, (je vous le laisse découvrir) .
Mais Quincy est un homme extraordinaire, un homme que l'on ne peut qu'aimer depuis qu'il s'est repris en main et il va provoquer un peu le destin en lui donnant un rendez-vous, auquel elle ne peut se soustraire et à partir de là, tout va changer. Toutefois Roni ne connait pas son passé très lourd.. Pourra-t-elle accepter l'homme qu'il est avec ce lourd bagage? ou au contraire fuira-t-elle? elle voit bien que Quincy est aimé mais verra-t-elle à quel point il est devenu un être exceptionnel, qui mérite enfin le bonheur? Mais le jeune homme est aussi un parrain dans un centre de rééducation et l'une de ses protégées est menacée et le danger se rapproche à nouveau de lui : saura-t-il résister à la tentation ? Pourra-t-il protéger ceux qu'il aime et pourra-t-il se protéger? et bien vous le saurez en lisant ce roman magnifique et porteur d'espoir à bien des égards.
J'ai adoré qu'on suive les couples des tomes passés et qu'on voit se dessiner les prochains : Scott et Penny (ce sera une novella) et Diesel et Tracey (la serveuse du pub qui a un lourd passé ) C'est ce que je préfère chez elle, on suit les évolutions des personnages qu'on a aimés : les mariages, les grossesses, les futures amours..
Bref, j'ai aimé ce tome car il incarne tout ce que j'aime dans ce type de livre car non, ce ne sont pas que des romances: Il y a toujours des messages, l'on apprend et il y a des valeurs dans lesquelles chacun peut se reconnaître : la tolérance, le soutien, la famille, l'amour, l'amitié , qui, en ces temps difficiles sont précieux. Bravo pour ce nouveau tome et vivement le suivant.
chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2023/...
December 11, 2022
Tru was my main man until his brother Quincy stole the show and dethroned him. Grab your tissues with this book, TruBlue was raw and emotional, Quincy's book left me a blubbering mess and then put my heart back together in the end. Quincy and Roni both had an less than perfect upbringing but they each found their way. Roni with dancing until a tragic accident shattered her dreams, but that didn't stop her from dancing and doing what she loves. Quincy had to fight his own demons and make peace with his past, together with Roni they both move on together and stronger than ever. We also get to catch up with some of our favorite characters from this series. This is the book of 2020. If you don't read anything else GRAB THIS!!
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