Maddie is a 21 year old ballerina and she hurts her ankle while practicing for a big audition. She is a big self doubter and has a negative mind set. She meets James, her physical therapist, and he’s a tad cold. Straight to the point and makes her work hard. Telling her to expect to not dance for over a year due to the injury totally crush’s her. She works part time at a restaurant and runs into James there a couple times. James tried so hard to avoid her due to him being her doctor and also 10 years older than her. (Age gap was such a huge issue in this whole storyline. It was repeated almost every chapter. 🙄)

James finally gives into his attraction and tells her he will drive her home from work. They get closer and closer but keep stating how they want no relationship. 9 weeks later when she finishes her PT, they finally kiss. This was a very slow burn and once they finally do kiss their communication is all over the place.

Overall it was a good book. James was a good solid rock for her and she was easily able to talk to him about her feelings. Maddie was good to bring the softer side out of James. They were a good ying/yang.

I wanted to be obsessed with this book as much as I loved book one. For some reason this book drew on and I got bored at times. A little too repetitive. Also, at 77% the characters are barely becoming one and then decide, let’s see how it goes. It’s frustrating as a reader. Overall this was a good book but a tad lengthy, a little repetitive and there was only a little character growth.

Tropes:
Age Gap (10 years)
Forbidden Romance
Grumpy/Sunshine
Alpha Male

TW:
Death of a Parent
Neglect of a Parent
Substance Abuse

This book wasn't really for me. Full of Trauma and weird/cringey moments. I had high expectations but fell flat for me :(

Unfortunately, I was just not connecting with this book. There was absolutely nothing wrong, I just wasn’t connecting and decided to DNF. Thank you for the opportunity!

Cal's final form in life was to be a protective brother/dad. Maddie's is filled with the forbidden age gap and I'm here for it. 🔥

The Darkest Corner of the Heart takes place 17 years after its predecessor, Maddie is preparing for her big ballet breakthrough audition when a leg injury strikers her and all hope is lost. There is quite a lot of sadness surrounding Maddie, both with what her mother created within her and this lost hope. James is her hot, older, physical therapist, who is quite smitten by her and is also a cat dad. They have a professional relationship, but he pushes and cares for her and they start blurring the lines after finishing her sessions.

There were hints that James would be an animal, for example calling her a menace or a brat. Sizzling, I tell you! Also, he blushes. A deadly combination. He has a dirty mouth and an exciting aura. The spice was spicy. 🌶️

They were cute together, they had a bit of a slow burn and didn't blur any professional lines, which I liked. Loved the mandalas and the important message in this book when it comes to mental health! I have to say, I didn't fully get involved in their romance before they were head over heels for each other, so to me it wasn't as special as I hoped. It might have been the next generation problem as I'm not used to those. The conflict wasn't my favourite, but the resolution made sense. I wish we saw more of their dating. The epilogue was so adorable, that I almost melted!

“Sometimes love isn’t enough. Sometimes people have to show you that you matter, and you do. You matter to all of us, Maddie. Don’t ever forget it.”

I picked up this book on a whim after spotting it on Instagram and was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it! The storyline was engaging, and I appreciated watching the growth of the two main characters as the narrative unfolded. However, the ending felt a bit rushed, with the transition from conflict to resolution happening a little too smoothly. I would have loved to see more focus on Maddie and her mother rebuilding their relationship. Despite that, this was an enjoyable read overall!

I thank Netgalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for giving me access to this ARC in exchange for a onest review.

I adored the first book, the brightest light of sunshine.
I feel in love instantly with the MC and the plot.
Don't get me wrong, I liked this book, it was good just not as good as the first one.
I found it a little hard to get through something, and more than one time I had to stop reading it and change book to not fall into a reading slump.
In the end it was really enjoyable, a cute read, just I was expecting more.
Anyway it was 3,75 🌟

Found this book a hard read.
This book and author are both amazing I just found it hard to get into.

I ADORED this book!

From the moment I read an early copy of The Brightest Light of Sunshine in December 2022, I knew I had fallen in love with Lisina’s writing. Not only does she write such heartfelt characters, but they are so full of depth that you can’t help but become invested in their stories.

The Darkest Corner of the Heart has been one of my most anticipated releases of 2024 and to say it did not disappoint is an understatement. I was so excited to jump into Maddie’s story, especially after reading her experiences in Cal’s book. She was such a lovable character and her relationship with James was so wholesome. I loved the pacing of their relationship, it had everything I could ask for: some built-up tension, heated exchanges, and the most perfect moments of adoration for each other.

It was also so fun to get an extended glimpse of Cal and Grace. The family that they have created warms my heart so much. I don’t read too many “second gen” books and I’m not sure if this exactly counts as one, but I have loved my experience reading these books so far and I cannot WAIT for book three! 🫶

“𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒈𝒊𝒇𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅, 𝑴𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒊𝒆. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒔𝒐 𝒈𝒐𝒅𝒅𝒂𝒎𝒏 𝒍𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒚 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒑 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚, 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒅𝒊𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒍𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒆.”

Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥
Relationship: MW
Tropes/content: Age gap (10 years), physical therapist/ballerina, slow burn, grumpy mmc
Series: The Brightest Light #2

⚠️Check triggers⚠️

When Maddie injures her ankle during a ballet audition, her world is turned upside down. She's referred to a physical therapist with hopes of a quick recovery so she can dance again. Maddie knew physical therapy would be hard, but she wasn't expecting her doctor, James, to be grumpy and oh-so-hot. Now Maddie isn't just focused on healing, but also making sure she doesn't fall for her doctor. That proves to be harder than she thought when she realizes he's falling for her, too.

The Brightest Light of Sunshine, book one in this series, was one of my top reads of 2023. I was, and still am, obsessed with Cal. When I found out Maddie, Cal's sister, was getting a book, I was so excited. Unfortunately, I was let down by this book.

The story had promise, especially with the doctor and patient dynamic between Maddie and James. The problem is that the story fell flat, and the plot was kind of boring. The pacing of the story was off, and it felt disconnected. The forbidden feeling had so much promise, but it flopped because there was no pull or tension between them.

Something about Lisina's writing style was off with this book, which I wasn't expecting since the previous book was her debut and was done well. I'm hoping with book three that we see her return to the style in book one. I think that was a solid debut, and I'd love to see her continue to build off that style. I'm very excited to read about Cal's daughter falling in love.

Thank you to Lisina Cooney for the early copy.

Darkest Corner of the Heart by Lisina Coney offers an exploration of grief and healing, but it falls short in a few areas for me.

The novel's premise is intriguing and Coney's emotional depth is quite evident throughout. However, the pacing is uneven with certain sections dragging and others feeling rushed.

The characters sometimes lack the development needed to fully connect with the reader. Despite these issues, there are moments of beauty and insight that make the book worth finishing.

The first book of this writer is still my favorite but I loved this one a lot as well. An injured ballet dancer and her physical therapist. Although there a problem, he is not allowed to date a patient. But that does not stop the attraction from developing. He is incredibly protective of her. They made a lovely couple. I personally did not get the big deal about the age gap.

It's been a while since I read a romance book this adorable. It had me invested since the starting lines. Can't wait to read the previous book. Lisina Coney you have just got yourself a stan.

ARC Rating 5/5 ⭐️

Absolute PERFECTION. Gutrenching. Soul healing. Stunning. This was just so fucking amazing, and I loved it even more than the first.

I really really enjoyed this book and the characters growth and development throughout. I just want to wrap them both up.

Maddie, is a ballet dancer who injures her ankle and James is her PT who is helping her rehabilitation.

It's angsty, its slow burn, its multi layered characters, and it's a really cute storyline. The story touched on real life issues and feeling, really well.

Overall, it was an amazing read, and I cannot CANNOT wait for Lila and Reed.

Check the content notes as this has a few deep topics.

Thank you, NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Lisina Coney, for sending this eARC for review. All opinions are my own.

This one was not for me, as at 33%, I could not finish this book. It read juvenile, with overly dramatic emotional thoughts, and relationships, akin to a teenager writing in a journal. The author tried to create intrigue and mystery, but it just came off Facebook status update from 2008– I was not hooked enough to see how this unfolded.

Beyond that, I prefer a subtle build of affections, as opposed to instantly (and constantly) noticing his big hands and bulging biceps.

Maddie is a ballerina who has just suffered from an accident while she was preparing for her dream job. She is now forced to take time to rest and go through physical therapy with Dr James Simons who she is immediately attracted to and vice versa.

I loved Maddie's character so much and really enjoyed reading her interactions with her brother. I'm told that I should read his book where Maddie is still a kid and I definitely think I am going to pick that up soon. I already know that I'm going to eat it up.

I personally felt that the relationship between James and Maddie was quite rushed and I wish there was more time spent building the bond between them rather than the pacing that I saw, but that very well could just be a me thing.

Overall, it was a fun read and I can't wait to see what this author does next!

Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op for providing me with this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I really adored the 1st book, but everything about this one felt different. The writing didn’t feel as emotional and powerful, and I really thought the age gap was too heavily focused on with this book.
(I will not be sharing a review of this on social media)

"Darkest Corner of the Heart" by Lisina Coney is a heart-wrenching new adult romance that delves into themes of self-worth, healing, and forbidden love. The story follows Maddie Stevens, a 21-year-old ballerina who feels perpetually inadequate. Struggling with feelings of abandonment and dependence, she faces a critical blow when an ankle injury jeopardizes her ballet career just before a pivotal audition. Maddie believes her dreams are shattered and her future is bleak.

Enter James Simmons, her physical therapist. At 31, James is a brooding, tank-shaped man with a gruff exterior that hides his own emotional scars. Despite their ten-year age difference and his initial reluctance, James becomes an integral part of Maddie’s recovery process. As they spend more time together, the tension between them intensifies, and their professional relationship begins to blur into something much more personal.

James, who believes he's too broken to deserve love, finds himself irresistibly drawn to Maddie. Their connection deepens, and the forbidden nature of their relationship only adds to the scorching tension between them. Both must confront their past traumas and insecurities if they hope to build a future together.

Review:
"Darkest Corner of the Heart" is a beautifully written, slow-burn romance that captivates from the first page. Lisina Coney masterfully explores the complexities of forbidden love, making readers feel every ounce of the characters' longing and internal conflict. Maddie and James are deeply flawed yet incredibly relatable protagonists whose personal growth is as compelling as their romance.

Maddie’s journey from self-doubt to empowerment is inspiring. Her struggle to find her own worth and independence resonates deeply, especially with readers who have faced similar battles. James, on the other hand, is a character shrouded in mystery and pain, whose gruff exterior gradually peels away to reveal a deeply caring and protective nature. Their chemistry is palpable, and the slow build-up of their relationship adds to the intensity and authenticity of their connection.

The author’s portrayal of physical and emotional healing is both realistic and poignant. The scenes where Maddie and James confront their fears and vulnerabilities are particularly moving, showcasing Coney’s talent for writing heartfelt, emotionally charged moments. The balance between romantic tension and personal growth is perfectly maintained, making the story deeply satisfying.

Tropes/Themes:
-Forbidden Romance
-Age Gap
-Slow Burn
-Healing and Recovery
-Forced Proximity
-Insecurity and Self-Worth

Overall, "Darkest Corner of the Heart" is a must-read for fans of emotionally rich, character-driven romances. Lisina Coney delivers a powerful story that leaves a lasting impression, making this novel a standout in the new adult genre.

In a world where they’re forbidden to each other, Maddie Stevens finds herself grappling with feelings she never expected. Struggling with a sense of inadequacy and thwarted dreams, she faces a pivotal ballet audition that could define her future. But when an injury threatens to derail her aspirations, fate throws her into the orbit of James Simmons, her gruff but handsome physical therapist. Despite the age gap and professional boundaries, their forced closeness ignites an undeniable attraction. As desire collides with restraint, Maddie and James must navigate the treacherous waters of forbidden love. Yet, with each passing day, resisting temptation becomes increasingly futile.

Repetition was a major problem because of the age difference and her mental health problems. Though it is officially a stand-alone novel, this book is the second in the series. The writing of Maddie and James is exquisite, and the subjects are tenderly touched upon without skirting the edges. This book tells us that it’s acceptable for life to not go as planned.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and finished it in a few days. I like that the author chose to depict the connection truthfully rather than using clichés that are frequently connected to forbidden romances in fiction. Although there are issues in this book that are better suited for mature readers, the author handled those delicate subjects very well, in my opinion, and the book was handled with care. I can’t wait to read The Brightest Light trilogy’s third and final instalment.

Note: This book contains mature themes and explicit content. Recommended for adult readers.

I obviously LOVED this book. I fell in love with Lisina's writing after I read The Brightest Light of Sunshine. That book is still in my top 10 favorite books. Getting to read little Maddie's story now!?!?!?

I devoured the book! Seriously, devoured it!

This is one of those books where I know I'll find myself rereading time and time again because I just will not get tired of it. Just like I did with TBLOS.

If you haven't read this book, or the one before it, what are you even doing?????

Honestly, what are you waiting for? Do yourself a favor and pick up this series. I accept absolutely no criticism on either of the books in this series, just like I'm sure I'll accept no criticism on the upcoming book.

You will not regret reading this book. And if you do, well I'm not sure what to tell you because my brain can't wrap around that possibility.

LOVE THIS BOOK, LOVE THIS AUTHOR, LOVE THIS SERIES! I cannot wait for the next one. 5 stars all around!

I absolutely loved this book! Definitely going to read it again. Lisina Coney does an amazing job connecting to the characters and I was invested in them all through book! I definitely need a new book immediately.