Review by SparklesonPages -- Heartaches 2 by H.M. Irwing

[SparklesonPages]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Heartaches 2" by H.M. Irwing.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Author H.M Irwing delivers romance magic again in Heartaches 2. It is appealing as both a scorching hot love affair and an emotional roller coaster. In this second installment of the Heartaches saga, Anna and Rafe’s romance blossoms even as they continue to battle against the odds. While perfectly readable as a standalone novel, I felt that I could truly appreciate the growth of the characters because I completed the first book before delving in.

I must first warn that parts of this book might prove too much for the faint of heart. Enveloped in this novel of romance and passion are far more serious topics that could prove a trigger for some. Our very strong female lead has overcome an extremely difficult past. She has been subjected to life under an abusive father among other things. Perhaps the most challenging part of the book however, was the graphic sexual assault descriptions including rape.

In Heartaches 2, Anna and Rafe face demons from their past. The traumatic experiences that they both endured allows them to find a deeper connection. Although the more graphic aspects of the book were important to the storyline, the plot was more focused on the strength that the characters found in each other to overcome the past.

This book and its predecessor would fit easily into the romance genre. It offers healthy doses of steamy scenes and a relationship that oozes both love and friendship. What sets this book apart? It is the inspiration that both our leading characters found someone who could connect with their pain, hurt with them and help them to grow from it.

I rated this book 4 out of 4 stars. It was a well written with an interesting plot and well-developed characters. The author’s ability to create complicated back stories and inspiring strength in the characters made this a hard book to walk away from. Anna and Rafe were realistic. They were friends that you could connect with and root for through their many trials.

I wrestled with giving Heartaches 2 a full score because I found the graphic scenes difficult to read. I understand too that they may prove more challenging for some readers. However, when an author is able to write scenes that produce such intense reactions it speaks for their talent. Just for a moment I was that person in that situation, feeling their pain. That is excellent writing. I look forward to more from author H.M. Irwing.

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Heartaches 2
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[chelhack]

As mentioned in this review I am starting to read this book so I hope it is good as a standalone because I have not previously read the first book of this series