Shallow River

This book took a piece of my soul, and I don't want it back. I was raging, ready to go to jail for River; I have never hated a character more in my life (no, not even Joffrey). I've read some heavy books, but this one really tested me. Another thing I absolutely love is the way H.D. Carlton is making a statement against the ingrained beliefs about dark romance readers wanting and asking for toxic relationships, because we don't. Not only that, but I had to close it every 5 minutes and take a deep breath so I wouldn't throw it against my wall. River has my heart; she has been through so much and managed to pick herself up despite all of it. You feel her every move, her every thought, her every insecurity, and her every fear. The POV of an abused woman is a powerful thing. It's not easy, but it's so rewarding and satisfying in the end. You won't be able to put it down until justice is served.