The Start of Us

I'm struggling to review this book. I have so many mixed emotions. On the one hand, I love when Lauren goes all angsty on us. It's such a departure from her romcom ways, which I love, but she always nails the angst like she was born to write it. I love how she builds it up. Makes her characters work for it. This is a reworked version, and I'm sure I listened to the original because some things where familiar to me. Any how, why I'm struggling, there is a character that I hate. I don't often use that word but honestly, I hated this character with every ounce of my being. And in turn, it made me very frustrated with Harley for allowing things to continue. But, I suppose that is the joy of a good book, right? That it can evoke such strong emotions and reactions from the reader/ listener? I'm looking forward to diving into book two, even if it is the hope that someone gets hit by a bus...don't judge me!

Joe Arden and Vanessa Edwin are pure perfection. Joe performs the troubled Trey with such sincerity that it was a joy to listen to. And Vanessa, good God, this woman is just astounding, I have loved every book I've heard her perform and this was no different, the delivery of this character and her conflicting thoughts and vulnerability was conveyed beautifully. They performed this book so well, they really showcased the angst, and my heart was breaking at times. So I'll admit, I'm not a huge fan of special appearances in audiobooks, especially when you have such talented narrators cast, however, I should have known Lauren wouldn't lead me astray. It worked perfectly having Teddy Hamilton and Erin Mallon pop in to narrate some of the chapters. It really added to the feel of the story. Who knew Teddy could be such a sleaze bag? And Erin's memoirs chapters really added to the overall feel of the book.

This is the start of a trilogy. Books must be listened to in order.

Taking advantage of a brief respite, I found solace in the world of literature, devouring six books in just five days. Amid this literary journey, I stumbled upon a revelation about my reading preferences: romance novels don't quite resonate with me. As I navigated this rollercoaster ride of literary highs and lows, one particular series stood out, demanding a comprehensive review to convey its essence to prospective readers.

The No Regrets series commences with a captivating seduction that ensnares the reader's attention from the get-go. Trey and Harley, our protagonists, are exquisitely flawed and utterly engrossing characters. Their initial encounter sparks an undeniable chemistry that neither wishes to extinguish. Yet, the fates have profound changes in store for them the following day, leading them down divergent paths. When they serendipitously cross paths once more, they find themselves trapped by their cravings, battling their addictions and life's hardships. A profound friendship blossoms, characterized by a level of vulnerability and openness they share with no one else. Their mutual determination to assist each other wavers under the weight of their attraction and the deep-seated secrets they guard, threatening to plunge them into an abyss of despair. My heart ached for Trey and Harley as they waged a relentless war against their inner demons, struggling to extend trust after being betrayed by those who should have safeguarded them. Yet, within the darkness, a faint glimmer of hope emerges, and I fervently root for their resilience and healing.

The narrators, Joe Arden and Vanessa Edwin, supported by special appearances from Erin Mallon and Teddy Hamilton, deliver performances that are nothing short of flawless. They breathe life into Trey and Harley, skillfully conveying their intricate emotions in both past and present timelines. Teddy Hamilton's rendition of Cam, in particular, sent shivers down my spine. This narrative is imbued with darkness, sensuality, and raw emotion, leaving me breathless and eagerly anticipating the continuation of Trey and Harley's saga.