Ruin: The Reprise

Black Hearts Still Beat #4

by L.A. Cotton

An emotional, angsty rock star romance from the USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author L A Cotton.

Working for America’s hottest rock band should be a dream come true for Phoebe Halstead.

And it would be, if it wasn’t for lead singer, Levi Hunter.

Tortured... Brooding... Broken. He’s everything she should stay away from.

Unfortunately for Phoebe, she’s exactly the kind of girl Levi needs. The light to his dark. The calm to his storm.

He wants to be worthy of her; she knows he’ll never change.

Everyone knows the greatest love stories end one of two ways:
... with a happily-ever-after or in heartache and ruin.

* Ruin is set in the Black Hearts Still Beat world. Whilst it can be read as a standalone it will be better enjoyed read after Eva and Rafe's trilogy. Due to mature content, this book is recommended for readers 18+

Genres: Romance, Emotional, Music, Dark Romance

328 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 17, 2020

About the author

Reckless Love. Wild Hearts.

L A COTTON is USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty mature young adult and new adult novels, LA COTTON is happiest writing the kind of books she loves to read: addictive stories full of teenage angst, tension, twists and turns.

Home is a small town in the middle of England where she currently juggles being a full-time writer with being a mother/referee to two little people. In her spare time (and when she’s not camped out in front of the laptop) you’ll most likely find LA immersed in a book, escaping the chaos that is life.

L A loves connecting with readers, and you can find her at:

Official Website
www.lacotton.com

Social Media
www.facebook.com/authorlacotton
www.instagram.com/authorlacotton

Reviews

[Wendys Wycked Words · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though the previous books in this series are mostly about Rafe and Eva, Rafe's brother has always been my favorite. To me, he was the underdog and I had e feeling there was so much more to him than what was visible on the surface. And boy so I love it when I am right!



I think Phoebe was perfect for him. She didn't just give in and I like it when there is a bit of a struggle... makes it all worth it in the end ;) Both these two had some nasty demons to overcome.



Ever since the first book, I have been waiting for Levi's HEA and I must say that is very fulfilling to finally see him find his happiness... 



If you're a fan of bad boy rockers you should definitely give this book a go... but not before reading the three previous ones about Rafe and Eva ;)

I myself really enjoyed the whole series


An ARC was provided to

in exchange for an honest review


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[Danielle's · Rating 5 out of 5]

Levi Is the bad boy you shouldn’t fall for. After scandal breaks out about his latest behaviour, Levi does what he does best. Losing himself in drugs and booze is his way of coping. The band needs him and not the bad press he brings them. When a new intern offers him a new kind of addiction can Levi finally start living for the future instead of dwelling in the past?

Phoebe needs the intern job and knows she should keep it professional. She knows the stories and is aware Levi is self destructive. When she rejects him, she see the mess it causes, but that isn’t a reason to say yes to Levi.

This is book four in the Black Heart still beats series. The first three books are focused on Rafe, Levi’s brother. We know Levi is in a bad place, but can Phoebe finally pull him out or is she destined for heartache?

Rafe is the light and Levi the dark. I’m really enjoying every minute of this series.

[Halle Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars 🌟

Ruin is part of an interconnected series and even though it can be read as a standalone I highly suggest reading the previous books as it helps build up Levi's character with this being his book.

I was instantly drawn to Levi the minute he was introduced. The damaged rockstar with childhood issues, a history of substance abuse and self destructive behaviour am I alone in being drawn to this type of character because from the very beginning I was like sign me up - my boy Levi is mine, and even though I still love him I was also slightly underwhelmed by his book.

The dynamic between Levi and Pheobe wasn't my favourite and slightly uncomfortable at times which is understandable with this kind of story. Levi relied on Pheobe too much as a crutch and she let him. I wanted more push back/tough love from her. She was a pretty strong and resilient character on her own but powerless against Levi. Any relationship involving an addict is gritty and emotionally draining so I knew this wouldn't be an easy story but I just would've liked more from the relationship development side, maybe if the book had been longer that could've worked.

"Love didn't fix people. It only masked some of the cracks. I knew that better than anyone"

The relationship between Levi and his brother Rafe and the band was explored more which I loved. Overall this was another heartbreaking yet sweet and interesting read, Levi is still my favourite Band member but I'm exicted to see how the next book goes.

《my reviewing system is in my bio for those interested on how I choose to rate books》

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4,5 "Drown!!!" stars***

IT'S LIVE!!!



Newsflash: Levi Hunter fucked up... again.

I'm so, so happy that Mrs. Cotton decided to write Levi's story after Rafe & Eva's trilogy. And I am even more happy that Hudson and Damon will follow up... Yesssss!!!!
We already took some glimpses in here and I can not really wait for their turns!!!
I love the Hunter brothers very much and I love the people that are surrounding them!!!
I just love Black Hearts Still Beat 's world and I'm not having enough!!! What can I say??? I'm a Die Hardy after all!!! LOL!!!

"You think you're irredeemable, that you don't deserve to be happy or loved, but you're wrong, Levi. And I hope that one day, you realize that."

To be totally honest with you, I wasn't the biggest Levi's fan in the previous books!!!
Not that he was totally bad, but he was self destructive and everyone, including me, was kind of judgemental over his crazy and impulsive behavior.
But in here, I realized that Levi Hunter was a misunderstood guy and that his addictions were his only way to numb his feelings... Feelings of hatred and self-loathing!!!
My heart was breaking so much for him and the resentment that he got through when he was just a child!!!
He just needed something or someone to pull him out of this hell hole that he was living!!

"It had been foolish to think that someone could ever look past the darkness surrounding me. I was unhinged. Reckless and volatile. I was a sinking ship slowly drowning in angry seas."

Phoebe was a new intern who was asigned to the band...
She was a lovely addition in this group and she was fitting really good between them....
At the end of the previous book, she and Levi got closer, but then all hell broke loose with Levi's latest scandal.
Now, she just wants to keep her distance from him, because she knows really well how an addict is... His addiction will be above anything else and she won't allow to anyone to second place her again.
After all, she needs this job desperately.

"He was everything I needed to avoid, and yet, like the foolish girl I was, I'd allowed myself to get close."

So what will happen with these two???
There is an intense pull between them that's difficult to be ignored... Levi is trying... He is pushing, but Phoebe is pulling away from him... And he is jumping even more down the rabbit hole...
Also the fact that the guys are pissed off with Levi and they are showing it loud and clear is making things even more hard for Levi.
He just needs to be closer to Phoebe in order to feel something else than self hatred.
But she just want to be professional with him and he is keeping him at distance...
Will she succeed on this matter or will she take a chance on him and will put her heart on line???
Will Levi give up on her or continue to provoke her???

"Love didn't fix people. It only masked the cracks. I knew that better than anyone."

"I didn't know how to love. I wasn't worthy of love. I just knew I felt something for her, something I hadn't ever felt before."

Well, I loved these two very much...
Poor Levi!!! He hadn't an easy life as a kid and even though at the present he was at the top, he was still that little broken boy in the inside...Nope, I won't justify his mistakes cause he did lots of them, but still I can understand why he was acting like that!!!
One thing that i loved about him very much was that he never accused Rafe for anything... He just kept loving him and that is huge. No???
As for Phoede... She had her own share on heartache and bad choices. Yep, Levi wasn't the ideal for her, but maybe she could make a difference with him...
These two were so perfect for each other....

"Don't break my heart, Levi. I'm not sure I'd survive it."

"I wanted to escape the way you make me feel."
"How do I make you feel, Levi?"
"Like I can't breathe... But at the same time, I've never been more alive. It's as weird as fuck. I want to drown in you, honeybee. Drown in you and never come up for air."
"And that worries you?" He nodded.
"You could be my new favorite addiction."

"She was both my curse and my cure.. And I didn't know if she knew it, but she held the power to both save me... And completely ruin me."

I have really loved this series and these characters!!!
Lianne knows how to crawl inside you and to take a place upon your heart.
I believe that in here, she showed us how difficult is to deal with addiction...
Honestly, I can not wait for the next book in the series!!!
If you are into rockstars with tortured souls, this series is one for you!!! Believe me on that matter!!!

"Love was a reason to fight.
It was a reason to try to change and lay your demons to rest.
Love was strength..."

**An ARC was provided for the exchange of an honest reivew**

[Izzie d · Rating 3 out of 5]

I recommend reading the series in order as events from the previous books, a trilogy, affect and set up the couple in this story.
Previously the Hero and heroine had a ONS but it was the start of something then a video is released.
The heroine backs off, the Hero has self worth issues due to a bad family background and the heroine had a toxic relationship with an addict in her past.

Pushing away from the the Hero and heroine at times.
I did feel throughout the whole story you are waiting for things to go wrong as the Hero repeatedly says he's going to mess up.

During the time they are separated.

“This thing with Riley, she set him up.”
“Maybe, maybe not. But she didn’t force him to snort that coke. And we all know it didn’t end there.” I hadn’t watched the rest of the video circulating the internet. I didn’t want to see him with another woman.

There is an incident shortly after the heroine says she they can't pursue a future together where he flirts at a club and he and another band member take women back to their hotel with them.
The blonde gives the heroine her number to pass on to the Hero the next morning ' to finish what they started'.

“It’s the truth. We got back to my room, drank some more, and I passed out."
He did it to make her jealous.

He later says 'I’m clean,” Levi said, swallowing hard. “I swear I haven’t been with anyone else since we…”'

Other than kissing there are no intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Breadcrumbs dropped for future books in series esp next book, Hudson.
Previous couple from book 1-3 appear.
HEA.
Epilogue.

[Weronika - Little Steamy Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

„Sometimes you have to lose everything to realize what you had.”


Oh my gahhh! Can someone come over and pick me up from the floor? L.A. Cotton knocked me down with this book and I can't get up! I knew Levi's story would be an emotional rollercoaster, but I didn't expect to feel it so deeply. This rockstar romance wrecked me in the best possible way. It's angsty, it's charged with real, raw emotions, but at the same time it's so tender and heartfelt... I love Rafe and Eva, I truly do, but Levi has my whole heart! He RUINED me.


If the hero of the book is broken, misunderstood, and hides his true character behind an armor made of drugs, rudeness and coldness, you can bet he will be my favorite. But Levi is so much more than a poster boy with an ugly past. He is a strong man who has achieved a lot despite not having faith in himself. Sure, he has his flaws and he makes a lot of mistakes, but it's apparent that he cares about his loved ones and that he won't give up without a fight to keep them by his side.

Phoebe had her own set of messy experiences and now she is afraid to get involved with the kind of man Levi is. I admired her persistence and her kind heart. I was in awe that she had a good head on her shoulders, because the world of music, parties and fans can pull, chew and spit out many people. Her heart may be bruised and battered, but there is still room in it for someone to help her heal it.

Their chemistry was off the charts and their connection was palpable. They had a lot of obstacles to overcome, the biggest of them being their own demons, but the feeling that brought them together is impossible to ignore and together they are able to fight the ghosts of the past and to deal with current problems. Levi and Phoebe's passion was scorching hot and I couldn't get enough of it, but it was their vulnerability that made me weep like a baby and made me love these two with all my heart.


Ruin is a heartbreakingly beautiful tale about healing and redemption. It's a story about slaying proverbial dragons and learning to love yourself. L.A. Cotton has done a fantastic job with delivering tortured, broken characters and showing how the time and the right person can heal us and give us the courage to put our hearts into someone else's hands. This rockstar romance was utterly remarkable!

The supporting characters were wonderful as always and I am already looking forward to the Hudson’s book (and Molly’s, I hope!).

[Elsa Gomes (BookishAurora) · Rating 5 out of 5]

➳ Rate: 5/ 5 stars

I had been waiting for Ruin for such a long time. Levi stole my heart at the very beginning of my BHSB journey. No matter how much I loved Rafe and Eva and how much I felt for them and what they went through because of Levi, I've always had a soft spot for the guy. I felt such empathy for him because I knew the pain he had felt and still did. I loved seeing the connection he had with Eva and how she had a positive effect on him (and no I did not ship them together, nothing beyond friendship and the kind of magic they created on stage). But I wanted to see him find his girl, find his own happiness and he found it, or more like, Phoebe found him.

Gosh, these two made me so soft. Their story was very angsty, I felt all their aches and their doubts and fears and it just made me soft for them and hope real hard they would work it all out. All the pain was so worth it though to see Levi find his happiness, get help, and really work to be in a better place with his past and his addictions. It just made me so happy and proud to see him in such an amazing place, I could cry happy tears. Phoebe was the right girl for him and he was the right one for her. And I just loved them both to bits.

It was also super great to see all the other characters and what they were up to. We got some unexpected surprises that have me so curious for the next book and also some little hints about other secondary characters that I wouldn't mind getting books from.

I love spending time with this band and their crew. They are my favs and I just love them so so much. I am totally obsessed with this world and as always I can't wait to get more of all of them. Lianne's writing is amazing as always and just like with every other BHSB book she has me completely hooked since the very first page.

➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.

➳ Order at: Amazon UK ⁕ Amazon US

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[Larissa Rye · Rating 4 out of 5]

4-1/2 Stars!

Levi’s story was different than I was expecting. He was so misunderstood by even his band mates & brother. After reading Rafe’s books you understand his point of view but at the same time he made me mad in this book haha. Levi had an unbelievably terrible childhood, I couldn’t imagine living with that much hatred in your life while growing up. He just wanted to be loved & wanted.

I could understand why Phoebe had such trepidation’s getting involved with Levi. But they were so cute together, two halves of a whole. I really didn’t like her dad though. Both of them had such tough family lives.

Some pretty interesting hints for Hudson & Damon’s books in this one. I love Hudson so I was pretty excited for his book already but I think Damon might end up stealing the show in the end. Another great addition to the Black Hearts Still Beat series.

[Marta Bo · Rating 5 out of 5]

LEVI... YOU HAVEN BEEN CLAIMED!!!!!!

OMFG!!!! I just finnished this Baby and.... where is my very pooor heart!!!! I knew, from the very first moment when I've meet him in this series - HE WILL BE MY WEAKNESS!!! And it happen, You guys... He stole my soul.... he stole my heart!

I cannot find more accurate.. words to describe how I feel, but I'm. sure Levi freaking Hunter is my very own Ruin... with the one tiny exception - He is my redemption too. I loved his character for a very long time... and by this book Lianne hasn't disappointed me. She made me fall even deeper in my Levi's obsession state of mind. I will be dreamimg about Him. I will be thinking about Him. He will stay forever in my mind. Bee was AMAZING, and I loved her too HOWEVER... Levi is this kind of man, that I would fight for him - HE JUST NEED TO BE MINE 😅

[Rosie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Going into this book, I was pretty sure that there wasn’t much Levi Hunter could do to redeem himself. Throughout the first three books in this series, you think you have an understanding of him as a man, as a musician, and as a brother, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how broken and tortured he was underneath the rockstar shell. Ruin is a story of redemption, one where Levi finds something worth fighting for, something that means he could have something for himself in the world, Phoebe Hastings, the band’s intern.

Ruin picks up right where Rule finishes, with the news of Levi’s relapse and s*x tape circulating all the news outlets. Levi is back in the hole; the dark one he goes into when he can’t see a way out of his head. The good thing he had started with Phoebe is ruined, something he only has himself to blame for, but he is determined this time to prove the band and his label wrong. He won’t recede back into his damaging ways, he will fight his demons, and in the process hopefully win Phoebe back, but he is full of self-doubt. Phoebe has her own history with addiction and knows how hard is to be second best to drugs and alcohol. She can see something in Levi, something that makes her want to try, but the pain of her past is holding her back, as well as the potential loss of her job if they start a relationship. She fights Levi every chance she can get, always finding excuses, but he is ready to show her how he feels, and in the process, slowly begins to tell her his secrets. But life isn’t easy with a recovering addict with an abusive childhood, will Levi and Phoebe be able to have they future together they desperately want, or will their pasts tear them apart for good?

Levi broke me. I had an idea that he was a tortured soul from his part in the previous book, but in no way was I prepared for his self-loathing, his pain and how he could spiral so out of control, both physically and mentally. Levi’s past was heart wrenching, the abuse and suffering he went through as a child was at times hard to read, and LA’s writing made it seem so tragically real. But with Phoebe, he could be vulnerable, let down his walls like he never had with anyone else, and in turn he became the real him. He grew so much throughout this book, learning from his past mistakes and evolved into someone who could see when they were spiralling and try to stop creating more hurt for those he loved, which was a great development from the man we met in book 1, who shut everyone out.

Phoebe tried her best to keep her distance from Levi, knowing that her heart couldn’t take another beating from someone she cared about, but she could see that he was suffering so deeply, her feelings for him meant she wanted to help him. I admired her strength, she was independent and stood up to the band, showing them that she wasn’t to be walked over and she deserved to be a part of their team. She fought against her past to make sure it wouldn’t be her future, and could see a clear difference with Levi, and I admired her so much for that.

Their chemistry was intense, but it was the calm moments between them, where they would just hold each other which sold them as a couple. Levi was drowning, and the only life raft he could see was Phoebe, someone he wanted to work to be better for. But Phoebe knew the risks of being an addict’s crutch and was hesitant to start something with him, not wanting him to replace his addiction with her, or be left behind when he inevitably relapsed. But both of them could see that there was something different between them and in the end couldn’t deny their feelings.
But the important message LA tried to convey was that just because Levi was trying to fight his demons and he had found Phoebe, didn’t mean he was instantly cured from his addiction. She didn’t sugar-coat it, recovering addicts fight their entire lives against this disease, and that was something Levi would have to continue to work at, but with the support of Phoebe, his brother and his band, he finally felt like he deserved something to work for and a future to look forward to. This was as much a story of redemption and recovery, as it was about Levi and Phoebe showing each other that they could be loved and appreciated by others, for themselves and not what they had to offer others.

It was so nice to see Rafe and Eva so happy, but Levi and Phoebe have stolen the show as my favourite couple. Levi is definitely my fave Hunter brother! Phoebe was the strong woman he needed to push him out of his shell and show him his self-worth and he too provided her with a loving family and relationship she so desperately craved. This series gets better and better with each book, I adored this couple and can’t wait for Hudson’s book next!!

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*

[Annie Brewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just gets better and better. I love the fuck out of these characters! All of them. But this story was everything I wanted.

Levi and Phoebe were perfection. I understand our beloved bad boy of rock so much better now. His past had defined him for so long that it made him a bitter, angry and miserable man. Being Rafe’s brother wasn’t always easy either, especially with their mother treated him like her little angel and Levi was the devil. I hated that witch and how she treated her boy. He was a child and she hated the existence of him. It made me so sad and heartbroken for him. He didn’t deserve it. She drilled into his soul that he was unworthy and he carried it around like his armor. Made it hard for him to trust and open up to anyone. Being a rockstar with a jaded heart really fucked him up….

Enter Phoebe…who was the band’s intern. She worked as Letty’s assistant, who was their manager of sorts. I loved Letty. She was like the mother of the group. She was with the band since the first book and I just love her even more through out the series. Also, we still have Eva along for the ride too. Since her and Rafe are practically married, she’s been a permanent fixture in their lives. I love her. I loved their books but I remember being so invested in Levi and Eva’s relationship. Their banter and love for each other was so sweet. Obviously not romantic love since she’s his brother’s woman…but she’s like a best friend to him. She centers him. He cares deeply for her and listens to her when she’s trying to reason with the brothers who had a rough relationship. The three of them have a special bond and I loved that.

Of course we have Hudson and Damon, the other two band members. Funny as ever. Damon is actually like the father of the group. The more responsible one. While Hudson is the jokester, the comic relief when things got too intense. They both are amazing guys and add their own specialness to the story. I’m so excited for their books! I just love these guys so much!

Enough about them. I wanna focus on Levi and Phoebe. These two were electric…their chemistry sizzling with each touch and look. They both had to overcome a lot to be together. It was hard to witness their constant self-doubts and fears when it came to their relationship. They loved each other so much but it scared them…especially for Levi. He had such a shitty childhood. He didn’t have the love of a mother, telling him he was good and worthy of love. She stuffed so much negativity down his throat, he believed her every word. He didn’t feel he was good enough for Phoebe. He was also an addict, I should add. He had a lot of demons to overcome. Phoebe also had a heartbreaking past that made being with Levi really scary for her. She still made an effort to show him he was amazing and wasn’t anything his mother thought him to be.
Eventually, drama and angst hit this couple hard. We get some scenes that shook us up, hoping they find their way back to each other.
I’ll say, I was pleasantly surprised with the ending. Tears were shed.
But it was a good ride to the end.
Also, Levi’s lyrics are so beautiful and heartfelt. They really sink deep into your bones. You’re left with a huge smile and satisfaction.

Now I need to read Hudson and Molly’s book. Just released today and I’m itching to find out how their story goes.

This series is just perfection! A bunch of hot rockstars with their sassy and gorgeous women to keep our interest. I highly recommend these books!
Go forth and enjoy! You won’t regret it!

[thehotmesslibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruin is book four in the Black Hearts Still Beat series by L.A. Cotton and this is the one you’ve been waiting for…Levi’s story. As we know from previous books, Levi is haunted by his past. Dealing with addiction, mental health issues, bring a rock God, life is just very difficult for Levi and the only way he can cope is through drugs and alcohol. From previous stories, we know that he is on a downward spiral and now his character is again in disrepute due to new pictures being spread across social media of him doing something he shouldn’t. After a shared night with Phoebe, Levi’s life has spiralled out of control again and we see the journey he goes on, not only to love himself, but also to reach out to others that are trying to help him and expect nothing back.

Levi and Phoebe together makes such a wonderful story. Not only do we have Levi’s background. We also see the strength Phoebe has when dealing with someone with addiction, especially as we get more of her backstory in this book and see what she has been through with a previous boyfriend. Their road isn’t easy and we see throughout the story the angst and emotional turmoil that both of them carry, due to mis-understandings, other people getting in the way and dealing with having a relationship that is under the spotlight.

We see the journey that both of these characters are on and how mature Phoebe is when faced with everything, especially as she is risking her heart and her job for a man who can’t claw his way out of the darkness.

The chemistry between the two is super steamy, even when they are both fighting the attraction that they have for each other. As with in previous books, we see the rest of the band and what they are up too. We also see how difficult Rafe and Levi’s relationship has become and how Eva and Phoebe pull them together.

This is definitely another wonderfully written book by one of my favourite authors. I can’t wait to see what’s coming next!

ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊

More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com

[KarenLou NorthandSouthBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be still my beating heart!


Ever since finishing Rafe and Evie’s trilogy I have been DYING for Levi’s story! And of course LA cotton did NOT disappoint.

Having seen his story from other point of views, I was so happy to get his side of the story but it’s not the best. He didn’t have a great childhood, he was made to feel like he didn’t deserve love. Which made him push people away if they got too close.

Phoebe had a nice life until she lost her mum, moving in with her dad he was barely there for her. She craved been someone’s number one, but she couldn’t even be that for her ex boyfriend. Wanting to keep levi at arms length, it becomes increasingly difficult to stay away!

Ahhhhhh their relationship was hot fast and intense but wow! They grew to become better people realising that they both can be loved and be the most important thing in someone’s life.

I love this story, this series, this band! Everything!

[Jeeves Reads Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m in the minority on this one, I know I am. But I just didn’t love it. Though technically a standalone, the story relies heavily on the reader already being emotionally invested in these characters based on the trilogy that precedes this (which follows another couple). We miss out on the flirting, the first hookup, the first investment of feelings, and are left with a tortured bad boy who messes up repeatedly and the girl who is his only hope of a brighter future. So, to me, there wasn’t a good enough reason to put up with all of the drama – and there’s a lot of that. The writing is still very solid and it’s easy to get hooked on the story, but I would’ve loved for this one to play out a little differently.

The story follows Levi and Phoebe in the aftermath of their hookup. While Phoebe knew that the tortured musician was troubled, that all comes to light in a big way when a drug-induced sex tape featuring another woman (from before their hookup) is leaked to the press. Phoebe’s past makes her wary of getting involved with a guy who uses drugs to numb his feelings, so she cuts things off before they can really get started. But Levi is already emotionally invested in Phoebe, and he seeks out the light that she provides.

There were elements of this that I really liked, from the strong writing to the complexity of the characters. Cotton is great at writing angst and that’s definitely at play here. Levi is the very definition of a bad boy, acting out when he doesn’t get his way and struggling to survive at times. I didn’t appreciate the level of OW drama, and the relationship is too toxic for much of the book. Levi is in SUCH a dark place, I think he needed to heal a little more on his own before being truly ready to start something. There’s plenty of triggering content and a backstory that will break your heart, but I needed more of the good times between these two – especially at the beginning. There’s a lot of Levi feeling sorry for himself and a lot of drama that I would’ve tolerated better if we saw more of the good between these two. I don’t think their love story should be SO reliant on the reader already rooting for them before the book even begins; this doesn’t feel complete on its own. I still liked a significant amount of it, but this would’ve read a lot better with a few changes. I received an early copy via Give Me Books and am voluntarily leaving a review of this angsty new adult romance.

[Ann (Literary Lust) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruin is the story of bad boy and lead singer of Black Hearts Still Beat, Levi Hunter, and I have been so desperate to read this. The book does follow on from where Rule ends, and personally I would recommend that you read Rafe and Eva’s trilogy first, although the author has written this in a way to ensure that we do understand Levi’s history, if we weren’t already aware.

I knew this story was going to be an emotional rollercoaster. If you have read the trilogy then you already know Levi’s background and of the demons he has to endure and fight every single day. It absolutely broke my heart learning how he suffered during his childhood and I understood completely how much this affected him today.

Levi is incredibly talented. Black Hearts Still Beat are hugely successful and as their front man, his voice, persona and charisma - especially on stage, has contributed massively to their success. The ladies all want a piece of him and he’s usually happy to oblige. However, he is broken and he relies on his addictions just to get through, and I prayed that he wasn’t going to use the light Phoebe brought into his life as a new crutch, changing one set of addictions for another.

Levi isn’t the only one in this story who has struggles - Phoebe does too. She knows that allowing Levi to get close to her - to break through the walls she has built around her own heart to protect it, has the potential to hurt her in a way that she fears she would never recover from. I adore both Levi and Phoebe, and witnessing the journey of these two damaged individuals who share an incredible connection and attraction was addictive reading. I wished throughout this story for them to both find the peace and happiness they truly deserve.

I will never tire of spending time with those Black Hearts boys and L.A. Cotton did an amazing job of writing Levi and Phoebe’s story. Ruin reinforced just how close the band members, Eva and Letty are. They are family, and this story also highlighted just how hard it can be for everyone to witness a family member struggling. There is more than a hint that Hudson’s story will be released next year and this makes me so happy! Ruin is a definite must read, and I know that you will enjoy reading this just as much as I have.

[Jenifer Briggs · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, I truly did, but with all the OW drama and the dark place that Levi was in for the majority of the book seemed to overshadow the romance between him and Phoebe. I felt that maybe if this was a duet, we would see him face his demons head on and change gradually for the better, instead of the intense 180 his personality took. I just wish we saw more of the happy times with Phoebe versus all the drama.

Another thing that made me pause was how even though this is technically a standalone, you miss out on so much of the relationship between Levi & Phoebe if you didn't read the trilogy before this book. So you may be confused if you start with this book and wonder what you're missing, relationship wise.

I do however appreciate the level of angst this author always brings. I might very well be a masochist , but I love the pain that comes with a misunderstood bad boy. But like I said, there were at times where it became too much. And while I genuinely did like Phoebe, I felt like especially because of her past, that she would have left Levi a lot sooner.

So even though I did like this book, overall it wasn't my favorite from this author.

**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **

[Karenj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each and every one of L.A. Cotton's books has the power to hold you captive, to take you to her world, to break you apart and piece you back together !

Levi and Phoebe's story is no different.

The tortured rockstar and the Intern.. the unlikely pairing of these two, both with too many heartaches in their past.. could it work? Could they be what the other needed.

Bee certainly didn't think so, she'd experienced the effects of loving an addict once before.. could she be enough this time?

Levi had too many demons, made to feel unlovable, hurt in the way no child should ever hurt. That isn't fixed easily. He didn't believe he deserved to be loved.

What ensues is a roller coaster story of epic proportions, emotions run deep, loyalties questioned and hearts shattered.. including mine.

All you want for these two is for them to find their peace... for love to be their strength... for them each to be enough !!

Another amazing story that will stay with me !! Cant wait for Hudson's story next hopefully!!

[Books I Flove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly I went into this book thinking there's no way Levi can redeem himself from the gruff, addicted jerk he came off. But!!!! It wouldn't be a LA Cotton book, if she didn't find a way to make that happen and totally prove me wrong. And how wrong I've been!!
We see a lot of pain in Levi, and stuff no one wishes on another person, and it was in some way understandable why he is / was like he came off. Until Phoebe came into his life. She instantly had a connection to him, and the tension / chemistry is HIGH. Like capital letters HIGH!!
Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of emotions, tensions, wow-moments and searing pain and a whole lotta LOVE!!
Lianne absolutely nailed their story and I really recommend this book! I can't wait for the next :)

I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Levi may be a successful Rockstar but that that mean that he is happy. He not only keeps his past very private, but he chooses to deal with the pain he is feeling with reckless behavior that is not only hurting him but the band as well.

Phoebe is a woman with a huge heart and a painful past as well. She has recently become an assistant to the band and she knows that there is much more to Levi than his behavior but she is torn between wanting to help and not wanting to become collateral damage in his downward spiral.

Levi and Phoebe definitely had their challenges to overcome as they both bear the emotional scars of the past but the support and understanding that they give each other proves why even though they are very different they couldn’t be more perfect for each other.

[Owella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I don't know where to start! I knew Levi was going to ruin me and I thought I was ready but I wasn't! I loved delving deeper into Levi's character! What a rollercoaster of emotions and twists and turns. It was beautiful! It was wonderful looking at what was behind Levi's rock star persona and how one woman could turn his life around and bring him to his knees. I've been a Levi fan from the beginning and have been rooting for him. I knew I would love his book and it was EVERYTHING AND MORE! 5⭐!!

[Cheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe & Levi

He ruined it. She had just begun to consider trusting him and then...he'd lost any chance with Eve. Now Bee was out. Could he win her back? Would she give him a chance? Little did he know how broken she was. She'd dealt with a broken, addicted, womanizing man before and she couldn't again. Could she?

The pain and damage weren't only to Levi. He was the lead singer in the band. When he screwed up they all suffered.

He wanted to do better. He wanted that chance. Watching Levi battle through his demons and Bee fight to make a decision about their relationship is emotional and touching. There is steam, support, and more from the band and management. Can they make it together in the end? Can they help each other heal?

Here is the answer readers have been waiting for. Reviewed for Words Turn Me On.

[FS Meurinne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Levi's story, I knew it was going to be good, but definitely didn't expect it to get to me this hard. Phoebe was the perfect complement for him, their story wasn't going to be easy due to all of Levi's past and darkness. Overall this story was what I wanted for Levi, so much pain in his heart he deserved his own story. Previous books of the series gives a lot of information into the character, so I suggest you read them all.

[Athena D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS

Ruin: The Reprise by L.A. Cotton is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is love worth the leap of faith? Can love heal the darkest of souls!? Those are the questions that plague phoebe as she tries to decide if Levi Hunter is worth the fall!

Levi has a soul tainted with pain and laced in darkness! Phoebe sees it but she also sees the man who just wants acceptance, who just wants to be someone’s choice! With demons of her own Phoebe isn’t sure if she can take the fall with Levi because to fall and lose him would break them both!

I have been waiting for Levi’s story and my gosh this beautiful scarred man was amazing! He might be jaded but he’s amazing when you give him the chance to speak! His story was unexpected but it was everything I love about a rockstar romance! With each book I become more of a fan girl for this amazing group and I can’t wait to see what comes next!

[Sophie Koufes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruin: The Reprise (Black Hearts Still Beat #4) is heroic poem. I love the lyrics in a few chapters. Levi's story is heart-wrenching beautiful. Wonderful supporting character's, unexpected twists and captivating plot. Loved every minute of it.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been dying to read Levi's story since book #1 after seeing his reaction to Eva. I loved being able to take a peek inside Levi's most-inner thoughts and learn how he ticked. When I was inside, I found a young boy that craved love and a gentle touch. He just needed someone to care for him. Then he got tossed into a sky-rocketing, hit band that carried all the temptations for escape. Levi never stood a chance, until now. You can have your family love you, but they're obligated. Finding someone, a stranger, to fall in love with you and just by being yourself and accepting all your flaws is an all-consuming feeling of acceptance and worth. Phoebe becomes that for Levi. She's everything he needs to heal. She makes him want to live instead of escaping. Phoebe carries scars of her own, and because of this, I think she is the perfect match. Levi is perfect for her because he naturally gravitates to being a better person. His natural instincts are to guard, protect, and display love. However, even the most perfect bubble can burst. Ruin is the perfect title as you see two people who are ruined. Two people that help build each other up, who become each other's cornerstone. This was a soul-gripping tale of a young boy who got his fairytale. And with his Queen by his side, he is able to build a more battle-worthy castle.

[Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruin: The Reprise is book 4 in LA Cotton’s emotional, angsty, rock star romance series. The book can be read as a standalone, but by reading Rush,Rise and Rule you will meet all the Black Hearts Still Beat band members and have a greater understanding of their dynamics and problems.
Told in dual POV by Leviathan “Levi” Hunter and Phoebe Halstead. Their story started in Rule when Phoebe an intern for the record company joins the band on tour. She tries to be professional but finds she has a strong connection with Levi, the lead singer and they have an amazing night together. However, as we know from the previous books, scandal follows Levi and he again in trouble. Phoebe not happy when Levi’s latest indiscretion hits the headlines even though she knows he been set-up but Riley betraying the band really affects her because it means their chance of being together has gone.

In the previous books we were given a big insight into Levi and how he fights his demons every day. In this book the author gives us a couple of flashbacks to his awful childhood and how it has affected him. It helps to explain why he feels he doesn’t deserve to be happy or be loved. He is full of self hatred and loathing but also feels empty inside. A Tortured soul, he constantly battles with the voices in his head so he likes to live wild and recklessly as needs the chaos as can’t cope when it quiet. He is a liability to the band but performing gives him an outlet for all the anger and pained doing the drugs made him forget but also feel something.

“I knew life was nothing more than a living nightmare.’

Phoebe feels Levi an enigma and all her life liked trying to fix people. She knows all too well the problems associated with falling for an addict and how she will never being the most important thing in Levi’s life due to his addictions. She been through it all with her ex but this also gives her an insight into ways of helping Levi. She shows a great strength of character when we hear what she been through and you really get to see why she going to be so good for Levi if he can ever let her in. She calms him like Eva does but it looks like Phoebe may heal him.

"I'll never be the most important thing in your life. I deserve that, Levi. I deserve to come first"

While the band resumes their tour, Levi and Phoebe can’t deny their feelings but have to keep it a secret which means more for Levi to try and handle. He doesn’t know how to let her love him and is incapable of talking about his feelings. Both are vulnerable in their own way and fighting the past as well as the obstacles in place to stop their relationship.

“I’m not a good guy, Bee, but I’d try to be good for you.”

Phoebe is everything he never knew he wanted. Only the second girl to get under his skin and be able to handle him and keep the demons at bay. Levi wants her to see him, not the persona he portrays to the world and the masks he hides under. He struggles with the feelings he embarrasses her and she going to leave him due to his abandonment issues and feeing hated all his life. Your heart will break with how the author portrays how much Levi just wants to be loved and wanted. He becomes obsessive and possessive over her and Rafe is really worried she becoming his new addiction, he still trying to protect his big brother.

Eva is still the sweet and caring girl from the first 3 books and I loved how she helps the couple, along with Letty, work through things and always there to help them when needed.
Hudson hilarious and his attempts at helping sometimes cause more problems, but his heart is in the right place. He still can’t admit his feelings for Molly so the band always teasing him about her. In the epilogue we find out the next book in this series is his story so I am looking forward to getting to the bottom of their relationship. In all the books I have been very intrigued about Damon, he is the peacemaker and cares about everyone. The author has teased us with phone calls to his mum so I wonder what his story will be and as they say it’s always the quiet ones you have to look out for.
If you’ve read the other books then I know you will thoroughly enjoy this angst filled story. If new to the series or this author then this is a great book to start the journey as I am sure the Black Hearts Still Beat members will rock your world and their girls will fill your hearts with happiness as they attempt to mend these broken, black hearted bad boys of rock.



Merged review:

Ruin: The Reprise is book 4 in LA Cotton’s emotional, angsty, rock star romance series. The book can be read as a standalone, but by reading Rush,Rise and Rule you will meet all the Black Hearts Still Beat band members and have a greater understanding of their dynamics and problems.
Told in dual POV by Leviathan “Levi” Hunter and Phoebe Halstead. Their story started in Rule when Phoebe an intern for the record company joins the band on tour. She tries to be professional but finds she has a strong connection with Levi, the lead singer and they have an amazing night together. However, as we know from the previous books, scandal follows Levi and he again in trouble. Phoebe not happy when Levi’s latest indiscretion hits the headlines even though she knows he been set-up but Riley betraying the band really affects her because it means their chance of being together has gone.

In the previous books we were given a big insight into Levi and how he fights his demons every day. In this book the author gives us a couple of flashbacks to his awful childhood and how it has affected him. It helps to explain why he feels he doesn’t deserve to be happy or be loved. He is full of self hatred and loathing but also feels empty inside. A Tortured soul, he constantly battles with the voices in his head so he likes to live wild and recklessly as needs the chaos as can’t cope when it quiet. He is a liability to the band but performing gives him an outlet for all the anger and pained doing the drugs made him forget but also feel something.

“I knew life was nothing more than a living nightmare.’

Phoebe feels Levi an enigma and all her life liked trying to fix people. She knows all too well the problems associated with falling for an addict and how she will never being the most important thing in Levi’s life due to his addictions. She been through it all with her ex but this also gives her an insight into ways of helping Levi. She shows a great strength of character when we hear what she been through and you really get to see why she going to be so good for Levi if he can ever let her in. She calms him like Eva does but it looks like Phoebe may heal him.

"I'll never be the most important thing in your life. I deserve that, Levi. I deserve to come first"

While the band resumes their tour, Levi and Phoebe can’t deny their feelings but have to keep it a secret which means more for Levi to try and handle. He doesn’t know how to let her love him and is incapable of talking about his feelings. Both are vulnerable in their own way and fighting the past as well as the obstacles in place to stop their relationship.

“I’m not a good guy, Bee, but I’d try to be good for you.”

Phoebe is everything he never knew he wanted. Only the second girl to get under his skin and be able to handle him and keep the demons at bay. Levi wants her to see him, not the persona he portrays to the world and the masks he hides under. He struggles with the feelings he embarrasses her and she going to leave him due to his abandonment issues and feeing hated all his life. Your heart will break with how the author portrays how much Levi just wants to be loved and wanted. He becomes obsessive and possessive over her and Rafe is really worried she becoming his new addiction, he still trying to protect his big brother.

Eva is still the sweet and caring girl from the first 3 books and I loved how she helps the couple, along with Letty, work through things and always there to help them when needed.
Hudson hilarious and his attempts at helping sometimes cause more problems, but his heart is in the right place. He still can’t admit his feelings for Molly so the band always teasing him about her. In the epilogue we find out the next book in this series is his story so I am looking forward to getting to the bottom of their relationship. In all the books I have been very intrigued about Damon, he is the peacemaker and cares about everyone. The author has teased us with phone calls to his mum so I wonder what his story will be and as they say it’s always the quiet ones you have to look out for.
If you’ve read the other books then I know you will thoroughly enjoy this angst filled story. If new to the series or this author then this is a great book to start the journey as I am sure the Black Hearts Still Beat members will rock your world and their girls will fill your hearts with happiness as they attempt to mend these broken, black hearted bad boys of rock.

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

RUIN - One final destructive mistake to ruin what could be something special
RUIN - Two people who have ruined each other for anyone else
RUIN - Me the reader - reduced me to an emotional wreck

'Ruin' has Ruined Me! A powerful story that left me the reader craving for more of this series while still deeply connected to this story long after I had finished. L.A Cotton's attention to detail in her stories is spell bounding which set's her stories apart! I don't know how she manages to constantly write such emotionally charged thought provoking stories.

"It's not the darkness in my eyes you need to worry about, it's the darkness in my soul."

If you have read the first few books in the Black Hearts Best series then you as I will have been waiting with great anticipation for Levi's story. We all known that Levi lead singer of the band and older brother of Ralf (his duet started of this brilliant 5🌟series) struggles with demon's everyday or one demon in particularly the memory of his and Ralf's mother and the mental tortured she put him through as a child. After years of that type of abuse Ralf's mind is constantly in a dark place where only drink and drugs have kept the dreams and the blackness from fully devouring him.

But when sweet but tortured Phoebe joins the band as an intern some of the darkness resides; it is as if Levi's black soul is drawn to Phoebe it is as if it can finally feel some sunlight in the darkness.

"I'll never be the most important thing in your life. I deserve that, Levi. I deserve to come first"

Phoebe shared one night with Levi before it all exploded around them and any chance they had to be together was Ruined. Already knowing what drink and drugs can do to a person Phoebe's ex boyfriend went down that very same path leaving Phoebe's fragile heart in pieces so no matter how much she is drawn to the bad boy of the band she feels she can't go down that route again - she fears this time her heart would be shattered beyond repair! But Levi won't give up without a fight his dark soul has touched the light and his heart beats a little stronger but his fight is not only to win Phoebe but also the bigger fight is with the demon that is ever present on his shoulder!

The chemistry between Levi and Phoebe is not in doubt but what this story draws down into is that sometimes chemistry is not always enough it is about having belief in yourself before you can truly give yourself to someone else!

Just loved it! I would suggest you read the first books in the series to get the full benefit of Levi and Phoebe's story.

A book I honestly didn't put down from the moment I picked it up!

[Delanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok so I want to start off saying I liked this book. I like Phoebe and her backstory. I think pairing her with Levi made sense. I even liked Levi and his backstory is very sad.

However

For one, I feel we don’t see that much of his backstory, we get a one page prologue of his abusive mother and then one or two flashback scenes. Maybe the author didn’t want to overwhelm the reader but I feel like maybe if she added a few more flashbacks or something to show just how truly awful their mother was, it would of provoked more sympathy for the reader. At least in my opinion.

Don’t even get me started on lack of description. She barely sets the scene when the characters enter a new environment. There was absolutely no introducing physics description of our H, like ever. The only time we get an idea of what Phoebe looks like it when Levi mentions “her braids, inked skin, piercings, hair”. Like the reader has no clue what any of that means. The author really could of made us like Phoebe more and understand her by describing how she looks and her ink and what it means to her. But no, we don’t even know her hair color.

Same goes for Levi, I don’t think we ever got a description of him, all we know is that he has many tattoos. That’s it.

As well this book was wayyyyy toooooo longgggg for the minimal amount of actual plot that happened in this book. About 60% of this book is just Black Hearts preforming and then “going out to celebrate but it’s ok everyone at the club has signed a NDA and we’ll be in the private wings”. Like that is literally how every single excuse is for traveling for their nights out.

As well Levi and everyone kept saying how “he’s going to fuck up again” but he never really did. Yes he’s sometimes emotionally unavailable and behaves like a petulant child but he doesn’t have a major chaotic fuck up. The ending felt rushed and the reasoning for them breaking up in the end felt like lazy writing. And that the author just wanted to end the story and make it eventful. I did like that it wasn’t Levi who “fucked” it up but our H.

I’m not sure if i’ll continue with this series since I don’t feel any connection to Hudson or Molly. So we shall see.

[Tiffany Readz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Levi Hunter is Exhausting

Be careful what you wish for is the motto for this book. I have been so interested in Levi Hunter's background for the first few books, boy did I get what I asked for. In this fourth installment of the Black Hearts Still Beat series we focus on Levi and Phoebe. This review may contain spoilers for books 1-3 in the series.

While book three, Rule was the finale, there is a lot more story to tell with these boys and Levi is up first. We all know from the get go this guy had some major emotional baggage. While I thought it was Eva to help him through, turns out Phoebe knew exactly what he needed and that it wasn't going to be easy.

"This time, I had to suck it up and go along with the plan. This time I had to fall in line. This time, I had to try to be better."

Ruin starts off right where Rule left us, in the midst of a scandal. Sadly, everybody figured Levi would be the one to bring them down, but not this way. Now he's got to shape up or be done with the band. I like that while everybody was sick and tired of his crap, they still stuck by him and tried thier best to help him. Phoebe included.

"Phoebe wasn't my friend. She was the North Star in my dark, dark skies."

There was a LOT of this. Lots of her being his light and he wasn't good enough, he had a bad childhood, at one point I felt bad for it, but thought let's move on already. I wanted to rush this part because I knew him and Phoebe were going to be great together once they finally got there.

The book is well written and compared to to last ones, felt a little draggy to me, however I still enjoyed it. Along with the fact that all supporting characters were present and accounted for and thier stories moving forward as well. The mystery grows around Molly and Hudson, so now I can't wait for thier story!

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.