3.5/5. I went into this blind, which is pretty common, and I typically love a dark romance. I think, for me, I just didn't see much of a plot. I get that Able and Peris are hurt, broken people who are dealing with those feelings as well as their feelings for each other in destructive ways, but I guess I needed a little bit more. I think maybe more comfort with the hurt (and that's 1000% personal - nothing against the book on that one) or some more aspects that make these characters real to me. I love Able and I feel like I understand him much more than I do Peris. Able is self destructive because his whole life he's only known destruction. I love how he is himself and doesn't care about others. I love that he wears the cheerleading skirt uniform and he uses Elise's money for thrift store clothing and he's so happy about his cd player. Peris is more of an enigma to me. I do understand his trauma and how it's shaped him, but I also don't. And maybe that's because I can't relate, which is great for me personally, or maybe I'm just not getting it. I do like Peris and I feel for him, and I get him to an extent, but something's missing here. What I did love is the ending. A cliffhanger? I'm in. I mean, I'm mad about it and demand answers, but I'm in. I'll be reading the next one because I'm desperate to see that story line's ending. Also Elise? Top tier mom, nurse, and character. She's a saint. Must be protected. 3/5 spice levels.

Notes: foster brothers, past trauma, toxic relationship, check TWs, hurt/some comfort, MMC wears make up, high school