An emotional, angsty, suspenseful, second chance romance from the USA Today bestselling author of Inseparable and When Forever Changes.Let him who is without sin cast the first stone… I’m the second-most hated person in Amber Springs.First place honors go to my twin, Ethan; however, hate isn’t a strong enough word to convey how people feel about him. Not that I blame anyone—some days, I hate him … convey how people feel about him.
Not that I blame anyone—some days, I hate him too. Mostly, I’m just lost and afraid, drowning in a sea of betrayal and guilt, wondering how this happened right under my nose.
There’s no choice but to leave. To move clear across the country in a last-ditch attempt to start over.
Transferring to a new school midway through senior year is hellish for most people. For me, it’s a welcome relief—until someone discovers our secret and now everyone knows.
The pointing, whispering, and scathing looks follow me around again, and I’m back to square one. Except, this time, I’m not alone.
Axel, Skeet, and Heath took me under their wing from the minute I arrived here. I’ve no idea why three of the hottest guys in town took any interest in me or why they continue to have my back, but I’m so grateful to have them in my corner.
Because, right now, they’re the only reason I’m not following my brother into an early grave.
This is an upper YA/NA STANDALONE #whychoose contemporary romance. Due to sensitive content and possible triggers, this book is recommended to readers aged eighteen and older. Please refer to the note at the start of the book. This is a full length novel.more
Surviving Amber Springs has a storyline that stays with you long after the final page. The reader is warned that the story deals with several emotional triggers and should be personally considered before reading although Siobhan handles each with care. I am usually not a reader of harem themes but Siobhan’s characters are hard to choose between and this lets you keep all the boys. I truly enjoy entering into Siobhan’s imaginative storylines and have never been disappointed. As a member of the ARC Team, I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I knew that this book had trigger warnings and I figured I would be okay with them. They broke my heart. I have reread this book at least four times and I still cry, but there is such light in the book as well.
Blaire has been through one of the hardest times of her life, the death of her twin brother Ethan. Ethan’s action that led up to his death make it so his sister and parents have to flee Amber Springs. Blaire lands in a smaller town and while on a run, meets up with three best friends. They take care of her and offer to be there to help her at her first day at the high school with them.
She has an instant connection with Skeet, Heath and Axel that goes from being friends to much more. Since this is a RH, no surprise she becomes all three of their girlfriend. As what happened in Amber Springs comes to light in the new city, the fight to keep Blaire safe becomes too much.
There is a time gap in the book and in the second half, everyone is in college and we learn the true nature of why Ethan did what he did. He was doing everything he could to protect his sister whom he loved more than life itself. As all the facts fall into place, we see how these friends support each other even when all hope felt lost.
The chemistry between each of the couples rings true on how relationships vary no matter how others see you. I don’t know if I could pick a favorite guy as they each held such special qualities about them and you can understand why Blaire never did pick.
Surviving Amber Springs by Siobhan Davis
Wow Such an emotional book
There was so much emotional angst in this book. My heart was on such a roller coaster ride throughout the audiobook.
It dealt with so many situations that aren’t dealt with in a fictional book yet written so realistically that I felt everything. I’m still dealing with all of the emotions that this book created. Amazing writing from Siobhan, she really pulls out all of reactions from all of the various people who go through and deal with following a horrific situation, and provides us with a peek into what it must be like to be related to someone who committed a crime. Blaire and her parents were forced to leave behind their home and memories are buried following that situation. It’s all in the hopes of getting back to a semblance of a normal life.
Blaire tries to ease into her new school and meets three popular gorgeous guys who take her under their wings. But can Axel, Skeet and Heath provide protection from a past they aren’t privy to?
The horror that Blaire goes through is more than any one should endure yet she tries not to breakdown. I can’t believe how much is dealt with in this audiobook. So much loss, so much hate and so many people ready to sacrifice a person who isn’t responsible. And we see how multi functional marriages work in the real world. We get to see forgiveness and second chances. Wow the feelings invoked by this story were many and have left me reflecting what would I do if this were to happen to me. Real life situations that are happening and yet we carry on not easily acknowledging what about the people left behind.
The narration was superb. Sarah Puckett pulls all of the emotions that Blaire has so well that I felt it all while listening. Paul Stefano is new to me, he has a distinct voice for each of the boys who really love Blaire with all their heart and he displays all of the emotions that they go through.
This a really compelling story that will leave you thinking about the subject matter for days maybe weeks afterwards.
Please be aware that it will be a trigger for people who have gone through gun violence and or rape, do not read/listen to this book if that is an issue for you.
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I can pick any one of Sioban’s book ( I have read pretty much all of them), and they will always be five stars for me. This one in particular, as with many of her books, takes you on a journey that will require a box load of tissues. So beautifully written, the gritty, tragic story will have you staying up late into the night to find out what happens.
Surviving Amber Springs is a heart-breaking, emotional, suspenseful tale that will give you all the feels. The story was unlike anything I’ve read and dealt with some difficult subjects and I thought the author handled the story in a sensitive manner. The novel was also steamy, sweet and drama filled and had me hooked until the end. I loved the characters, they had great banter from the start and I loved seeing the dynamics of their polyamorous relationship evolve. This novel focused on Blaire and showcased her strength and courage surviving what she did. This was a story of trauma and loss and survival and I would recommend it.
The audiobook as narrated by Sarah Puckett and Paul Stefano. They did an excellent job and brought the story to life, giving each character their own voice. It was a pleasure listening to them narrate this novel.
TheFlock
The reviews I read about this book were outstanding, so I purchased a copy, but I didn’t jump right in and read it. I kick myself for not taking the plunge right after I purchased it. It was such an intense read, I literally couldn’t put it down! Not only were the characters going off the charts with their chemistry (and who doesn’t love three super sexy alpha males protecting what’s theirs?!?!), but the underlying conflict is so relevant and thought provoking, this book will continue to move around my head and remind me there are so many factors in play in the world that we just don’t know about. To say I loved it doesn’t do it justice. Absolutely amazing!
Surviving Amber Springs was my first Reverse Harem adventure. TO be honest, I wasn’t sure about the genre- could it still be romantic? Is is just about more sexy times? Would the emotional connection be there-….how does it even work? But, so many people recommended this as a great “intro” to RH reading, and they were DEAD ON. This book is amazing- all the things that you find in “traditional” M-F romance but amplified- both because we have a harem and because of Siobhan’s amazing ability to craft deeply emotional and nuanced characters with such care and tenderness. And this story was just that- tender, emotional, bittersweet, and moving. I loved this book, and it has kicked off long term love of RH stories as well as a deep commitment to this author.
Blaire, our heroine, has recently relocated from Amber Springs after the loss of her twin. THere is a bunch of baggage associated with this that we slowly discover, but Blaire is still suffering from her time in Amber Springs- and as such, she’s distrustful, lost, and withdrawn, but she has a hard time resisting a charming trio of friends, Axel, Skeet, and Heath (how hot are those names?!)). Each has their own charm and connection to her- each somehow fills the cracks of her hurting heart in a uniquely important way, and Blaire finds herself not only being attracted to each but needing each. The polyamorous relationship thing is new to her, but our guys help her ease into a tentative romantic relationship, supporting her even though they aren’t fully sure what has left her so broken and raw…but as our story progresses, we learn more and more, and the impact this has on each of our characters creates obstacles and hurt and challenge as well as unity, connection, and emotional catharsis for each of our characters.
Blaire is a really compelling heroine- she’s broken and unsure but strong and resilient. She’s weathered some hard times and has stayed true to her heart, and despite all that has hurt her, she’s still willing to open her heart (bit by bit) to our men. You understand their desire to protect and support her. For me, her connection to the boys wasn’t always even- but I appreciated that, I imagine that is what a real RH situation is like- you don’t move at the same pace with each individual, and here that is talked about openly and welcomed, understood, and supported. I loved Axel- he’s your typical badboy with soul and a beautiful heart- his connection the Blaire seems the most intense and immediate, their chemistry is urgent and soulful. Skeet is the heart and soul of the crew- the glue that holds them together. He’s funny and sensitive, patient and kind- forming a more tender, sweet connection with Blaire. And then we have Heath- to be honest, I felt less for him, but he made the most mistakes of the guys- and he’s just trying to exist in this (to him) unconventional romance. He’s the jock and does some jocky things, but he’s also protective and stoic- which is needed when emotions fly.
I also loved how openly the characters talked about their arrangement- like it wasn’t just assumed this is a way of life that is understood and mainstream, which is so much more realistic- they are all knew to a RH relationship, and the fact that they communicate so openly about it and establish boundaries and relational roles made it feel genuine and real. Siobhan also creates a great balance of physical and emotional chemistry here- we get delicious steamy time, but we also have real, nuanced, and developed emotional ties that make the steamy times feel so much more soulful and tender. These characters become so deeply and intimately interwoven, you see how the RH is the only way- you BELIEVE her love and need for each, and them for her.
There are some surprises along the way, and the story takes a direction you don’t expect several times, plot of which includes some triggers and some very disturbing things. This is done tastefully, honestly, and with care (ie not sensationalizing or doing it for shock value), and with a lens that I didn’t think I would understand but appreciate (don’t want to give much away). I wouldn’t sall this YA- this is more adult, even though the characters are high schoolers.
Whether you are into RH or not, this romance is touching and emotional and deeply rewarding. And, if you are on the fence about RH, give this a go- it’s a standalone and contemporary, a smaller harem, and a very communicative one- it really sold me on RH. It has gone on my re-read list, and I’ve revisited it multiple times. Lovely read.
I don’t even know where to start with this book !! I was not prepared for all the emotions I felt or for how hard this hit me.
I was immediately sucked in. The characters felt real, the devistation, heartbreak, pain, fear, all of it felt real. It was like a punch in the gut and I felt like I couldn’t catch my breath. The subject matter wasn’t something I thought I’d be comfortable reading about, and I was right, it wasnt comfortable, but thats why it was so beautiful. Blaire’s pain is so real and she is so unbelievably strong she is definitely an amazing main character. This is not an easy book, but ots worth every last word of read. Blaire, Skeet, Axel and Heath’s journey is one you don’t want to miss out on. I can’t wait for more from Siobhan
Wow, this was not what I was anticipating! I don’t read many reverse harem type storylines but I fell in love with Siobahn’s writing style when I devoursed the Sainthood series so I decided to give this one a try….I am glad that I did!
Blaire has a very heartbreaking event happen that ultimately leads her (and her family) to a new town, and for her, a new school. She is befriended by Axel, Skeet, and Heath. They form a unique friendship that makes this book really interesting. There is so much drama and the unpredictability of the story kept me reading all the way through!
Wow! I loved it! This is one of my favorite RH Romance! Blair, Axel, Skeet, and Heat’s story is very emotional, and captivating, filled with angst, and suspense. I love the ending. Sarah Puckett and Paul Stefano did a wonderful job with the narration. I highly recommend it. #TheFlock #AudiobookFascination
Surviving Amber Springs by Siobhan Davis is a contemporary romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Sarah Puckett and Paul Stefano.
The book comes with a warning “Due to sensitive content and possible triggers, this audiobook is recommended to listeners aged 18 and older. Please refer to the note at the start of the audiobook.”
This is the second book of Siobhan’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. This book took me on an emotional roller coaster. Siobhan did an amazing job making me fell all the emotions that Blaire was going through. I loved the relationship that bloomed between Blaire, Axel, Skeet, and Heath.
Sarah and Paul did an amazing job on the narration. They both really know how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would highly recommend this book if you love contemporary romance, psychological thrillers, romantic suspense.
The Flock Team
Audiobook Obsession VIP Reviewer
Flock review. I enjoy Siobhan Davis writing and all the books I have read so far I have enjoyed them immensely, this one was no exception, although I got the audiobook this time. This is a reverse harem story with a storyline that made it perfect. The characters are amazing and the relationship and development between them was very well done. The emotional part of the story was definitely on the high roller-coaster, it was deep and definitely made me hear it in record time, I just couldn’t stop. Narrators Sarah Puckett and Paul Stefano did a fantastic job portraying their characters, the editing was very well done, definitely would recommend you get the audiobook.
This story by Siobhan Davis is gripping and emotional, She goes in depth how one horrific act can destroy the lives of many. The repercussions, the taunts, the bullying, have Blaire and her family moving away for a fresh start. The haunting question was why?
Moving to another town, trying to keep their anonymity. Blair made friends with the hottest three guys in her new high school. All she wanted was to keep a low profile. But as her secrets were revealed, bullying, jealousy, and torment followed her, and put her into deep despair and depression.
This story had me reeling with emotions throughout. There’s love, self doubt, angst, and laughter. But in the end, it made Blaire a stronger person and wanting to find the answers. with the love of her 3 guys they were there to support her physically and emotionally.
The narration is perfection by Sarah Puckett and Paul Stefano . They bring depth to each character. I can feel each moment of emotion, anguish, anger, torment, throughout the story. Thank you for bringing this story to life.
Audiobook Obsession Reviewer #The Flock VIP #Pink Flamingo Productions
Oh man, is this a hard book to listen to. Such heartbreak and pain that I felt overwhelmed with emotion at parts and yet I couldn’t stop until I could finally find a happy ending in the end. I think this may be the best book I’ve read this year as far as making me feel everything. The narration was perfect.
Outstanding Story & Narration Profoundly Gripping!
Surviving Amber Springs
By: Siobhan Davis
Narrated by: Sarah Puckett, Paul Stefano
Wow, this is a powerful story, it grabbed my attention immediately and not only captivated my attention the entire book but pulled on my heartstrings too. Siobhan Davis is a gifted author and a master at creating stories that are multi-layered with complex characters and storylines that are realistic. To keep it spoiler free I will not say much about the story other than it was brilliantly plotted, just enough info was held back and revealed at perfect times, making you wonder what exactly happened in Amber Springs. This is a YA/NA reverse harem romance and I adored all four characters, Blaire a new comer to town starting HS at the start of the second term of the year. Good friends Axel, Heath and Skeet took liking to her and they took her under their wing. This did not go over well with the mean girls who then started to stir things up for Blaire. But she stuck with the guys and did not bow down to the bullies. I admired her strength and determination. The friendship with the guys moves to another level and but when the thing she is trying to get away from comes back into her life it all goes down hill for her. I admired the guys for wanting to stick by her side but she she feared her toxicity would ruin them. I loved how this book was broken down into two parts, the before and the after, which is the future and a second chance at life. Siobhan Davis thank you for the emotional rollercoaster ride and the amazing story.
I listened to the Audible edition, Ms. Davis cast the perfect narrators to bring her characters and their story to life. Sarah Puckett and Paul Stefano did an awesome job portraying the characters, humanizing them, giving each their own distinct voice which made it easy to follow along and tell who was who. Sarah Puckett took Blaire role and made it her own, she sounded just as I pictured her to sound, she was awesome performing the roles of the other characters too. It was same for Paul Stefano, he grasped the persona of each of his characters and played the roles with perfection. You can hear how much heart they put into their work as they capture the characters emotions and project them into their performance. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the fantastic listen
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I’ve only read/listened to a couple of Siobhan Davis’s books. She is an excellent author and becoming a favorite. This book was incredible. The heartbreaking story of a twin left behind tore through me. I did guess what happened before hand, but do not want to give it away. I didn’t read the teaser on it so it may not be a secret. I loved the main characters, Blaire, Skeet, Axel, and Heath. This is a polyamorous relationship between the four. Skeet and his family gave me warm feelings.
But I cried, got angry, sick, and devastated as well as smiled, and laughed a few times. This is not an easy story to read/listen too. I had to pause it to get myself together a few times. It involves brutal bullying and rape. It’s written in two parts which made it a believable story. It’s mostly a slow burn romance. There is hope. I loved how she ended the book. I’ve actually started reading it now. It’s just as good as listening to it! This is definitely one to listen to again!!
Sarah Puckett is an amazing narrator. She is definitely a favorite. I love her voice for both male and female parts. She draws you in and it’s like a movie running through your head. You’re in the story. Paul Stefano has a to die for deepish voice. I really enjoyed it. I didn’t really like his voice for Skeet or Blair though. He had few chapters to read. Three or four maybe? I’ll look for another book narrated by him in the future.
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Intense, emotional, heart-stopping. These are just a few words that I would use to describe this book. Blaire went through so much throughout this whole book my heart just ached for her. She goes through an unimaginable loss that then gets mixed with confusion about why her brother did what he did. Then she gets continuously attacked and that just adds to her struggles. She endures so much, all while trying to uncover and expose the truth of what happened and who her brother is. It takes a unique and different perspective on what is a highly controversial and emotional topic. It makes you think and highlights the effects of someone’s actions on others, especially their own family. Siobhan Davis was able to beautifully discuss a controversial topic while also covering, mental health (Specifically PTSD, Depression and Anxiety), bullying, trauma and loss. And to top it all off she had a beautiful romance between Blaire, Axel, Heath, and Skeet. While it may be triggering to some, it is beautifully written and watching Blaire’s journey throughout this whole story is awe-inspiring.
This was a remarkably well written and thought provoking book and I burned through the pages! Its an incredibly emotional journey for Blaire, facing tragedy, having to find herself along the way. There is no way you get through this book without some admiration for her strength, especially at such a young age. And her guys! Normally an RH story is more drawn out over a few books so you can feel out all the characters, but this one, I felt like I got to know each of them and saw the value they added to the ongoing, building, growing bond between them. It truly was a beautiful story with so many topics handled so delicately I just loved it and I will miss these characters!
This was the first book by Siobhan Davis. I have such mixed feelings about this book. There was so much sadness throughout the book. My heart broke for Blaire and all that she endured. I did love each of the guys and their different personalities. I loved that Blaire got her HEA. I definitely want to read another one of her books.
Id been dying to read this book for a long time because id heard from other readers what an amazing book this is. Usually when i hear that the book rarely lives up to the hype but not with this book it really does. My own recommendation is that you read this book with a big box of tissues because boy does it break your heart to only put it back together to break it again. A bittersweet story about a girl who has had some truly horrendous things happen in her life and how she learns to live, love, trust and the repercussions of that. Im in agreement it really is and amazing book!