Splintered, Unlucky 13 #9 by Isabel Lucero

"Isabel Lucero is such an incredible storyteller. Her characters never fail to enthrall and captivate me." Zakiyya read Splintered, part of the multi-author series Unlucky 13.

From the blurb:

Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa—the best place to go when all you want to do is disappear and not have anyone expect anything of you.

Overwhelmed with work and feeling like I’m being pulled in multiple directions at once, I crave the serenity a private island holds for me. As a very recognizable figure in the adult film industry, I’m used to shelling out parts of myself for the sake of others. Everyone wants more pictures, videos, and more of my time and energy. Though I’ve created an empire that has made me lots of money in a business I enjoy, I still desire a break.

Sandy beaches, fruity drinks, and turquoise waters are all I expected from this trip. I definitely didn’t anticipate running into my high school crush—the jock that never once looked at me the way I wanted him to.

Jarrod Bivens is now the star goalie of the San Jose Bobcats, and the person half the world is blaming for his team losing in the playoffs. Clearly here for his own escape, our chance encounter ignites an instant friendship. With each day on the island, I realize my crush is far from gone, but Jarrod’s known for only dating Hollywood starlets, so he’s obviously straight. Maybe those lingering gazes and small touches are all in my head.

But one day, something interesting arises between us—a moment I couldn’t have prepared myself for. Our mounting tension finally snaps, but little did I know it was only the beginning of a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Our chemistry is undeniable, but the real world awaits, and life off the island is bound to be much different. How can two people from completely different worlds ever make it work?

Zakiyya's Review:

Jarrod and Devin were wonderfully written characters, both complete opposites yet fitting so perfectly together.

A seamless combination of friendship, love and realistically portrayed struggles. Struggles that you cannot help but experience alongside them.

 

Splintered is easily one of my favorites from this series – definitely recommend, you will NOT be disappointed. 

Rating: 5 Stars

Heather's Review:

I was a little intimidated when I opened up the ARC and saw 58 chapters, but once I got started, the story just flowed and I was transported back to Black Diamond Resort and into the lives of Jarrod and Devin... This chance to re-connect with a childhood crush, building a friendship that became a bisexual awakening that became more in the real world...

I love the complexity of the characters, the attention to detail and the way their worlds intersect in so many ways.  I also appreciate the amount of character growth that both men experienced as the result of meeting up with each other... the only thing I'm left wondering is if Devin is going to change his name with marriage so he can be Devin Bivens.

I've loved all the books in this series, but I have to say that this one was one of the tops!

Rating: 5 Stars

Splintered is available to buy as an ebook, paperback, or to read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.