“Still Beating” by Jennifer Hartmann – A Review

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"Still Beating" by Jennifer Hartmann - A Review

Tropes

  • Kidnapping
  • Enemies-to-lovers
  • Emotional Scars
  • Forbidden Romance
  • Forced Proximity

Plot

Cora and Dean have a hate-hate relationship. They play pranks on each other, argue all the time, and generally get under each other’s skin. Until they are both kidnapped and have no one but each other to try and escape a madman.

Review

Wow. This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions. Hartmann is a master at creating a story that showcases trauma, regret, and a rawness or emotions that can only be described as captivating.

This book took us on three different journeys. The first is about Dean and Cora in captivity. Reading about what they experiences was heart wrenching. Struggling to continue to continue to find hope, these character’s literally went to hell and back. It was an experience to read, and to root for them, even when, as a reader, you were nervous that all hope was gone.

The Second and Third part of the book was about Dean and Cora’s recovery. He and Cora went through the same trauma, but that doesn’t mean their experience was the same. Showcased through overdosing, overuse of alcohol, and sex as a crutch. At times, it was very difficult to read, but that made the story even better.

Throughout this torture and recovery, there was a beautiful love story between two characters with nothing left to lose. A love that was forbidden and confusing. Yet, there was a rawness and such openness because they were the only two who could understand what the other went through.

It was honestly so beautiful to read, and I applaud Hartmann for giving these characters a voice and to showcase that through love you can get through some of the hardest times in your life. Having someone on your side can really make all the difference. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone. Just check the trigger warnings before you read.

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