One of my most anticipated books of 2024 and I was lucky enough to receive the ARC! Thank you so much NetGalley. First let me just say, I’m obsessed with Lisina Coney. I was completely blown away by The Brightest Light Of Sunshine and couldn’t wait for Maddie to get her story. I was NOT disappointed. Age gap, ballerina and physical therapist, slowwww burn. Definitely tugs on your heart strings!!! You learn a lot about Maddie in the first book (The first book is her older brother Cal & Grace). She goes through a lot super young which leaves her with a lot of baggage… in walks James. I’ll leave it at that. I loved seeing Cal and Grace’s story 17 years later too. It felt like coming home. Grace is still the voice of reason for the family and her quotes were iconic. This was overall a super cute slow burn romance! 4.5/5 ⭐️

“Listen to me, Maddie. I don’t care that she’s your mom, that she’s family—if you don’t feel comfortable around her anymore, you don’t have to see her. For now, or ever again. You’re an adult now. You’re the only one who can make that decision.”

I loved this book, I originally saw all the hate on Twitter about it and saw the tropes and there all ones I loved, so I gave it ago and I had no regrets, this book is written beautifully. I loved how the hight diffrence was only mentioned when nessersary, and that the age gap was handled really maturely and perfectly, I will be buying this for myself, and recommending to as many people as possible

Darkest Corner of the Heart by Lisina Coney is perfect for an age gap romance reader.

✅ Forbidden romance
✅ Slow burn
✅ Age gap
✅ Physical therapist/ ballet dancer
✅ Family issues
✅ High sexual tension
✅ Plenty of Spicy scenes: intense and explicit
✅ Angst
✅ Suspense
✅ Tear jerker

Maddie, an injured ballerina can't resist the attraction between her physical therapist, James even though he is a few years older than her. Despite a lot of family issues and dark past, Maddie are able to solve her problem by therapy and second chance.

I love the author mature writing style and the characters development. The storyline are addicting and the happy ending are adorable.

I'll definitely be waiting for another book by Lisina Coney.

Published On:

Goodreads - February 11, 2024
YouTube Short - February 13, 2024 3PM EST
Tumblr - February 12, 2024 2:00PM EST


Let me start off by saying that I didn’t read the 1st one but now I want to. (This book can be read as a stand-alone tho)

This trope was the grumpy guy / forbidden romance due to the fact that the love interest is her Physical therapist AND his older (10 years). I was annoyed with how obsessive James (love interest) was with the age gap between them that was brought up WAY more than necessary, especially with everything else that was happening that I wish was more focused on. HOWEVER, they were so cute together so I’m letting it slide.

Ultimately this was a four-star read because I didn’t like how the writing flowed there were parts that were rushed that I wish the author put more focus on and parts that dragged on that imo didn’t need to go on as long as it did.


Thank you Netgalley for this ARC read in exchange for an honest review!

A post from the author about ARCs being available for request came up on my instagram explore page and I RAN to netgalley after reading the description. Thank you to NetGalley & Lisina Coney for the ARC!
Grumpy cat dad PT
Sunshine-y ballerina
Age Gap (and they won't let you forget it lol)
Forbidden Dr/patient relationship (though the relationship starts post-care so it's not *really* forbidden)
Slow burn
Mental health discussions

Maddie and James' story was so sweet and I loved the character growth we got to see in both of them surrounding their family dynamics and life changes/goals. But for all the serious parts, we got plenty of pining and romance! And the epilogue?? *chefs kiss* tied up their story perfectly.
I hadn't read The Brightest Light of Sunshine prior to this but I will definitely be picking it up after having read this! I really enjoyed Lisina's writing and absolutely blew through The Darkest Corner of the Heart.

The hero is a grumpy cat dad. That’s all I needed to know. I loved his character and Maddie was someone anyone could identify with. Such a great read!

I loved The Brightest Light of Sunshine so I was very excited to receive this arc, and it did not disappoint. I finished it all in one day.

Darkest Corner of the Heart is a sweet romance that focuses on mental health, trauma, and healing.

Maddie and James are well-written and have good chemistry. I loved seeing Cal and Grace again, and getting to see the life they’ve made together. Some of the scenes featuring them made me tear up.

I’m excited for the next book in the series!

Such a good read - Lisina did not disappoint on this one!

Age gap, forbidden romance is always such a great concept. There were times when I would hear Maddie’s inner monologue and think “she’s acting so young” forgetting that she’s 21 and her thought process at that age makes sense. Other than forgetting that one little bit of information, this read was well done.

A fun time read for sure!

Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Tropes
🩰Grumpy/sunshine
🩰Ballet dancer and her physical therapist
🩰Age gap (10 years)
🩰Forbidden romance
🩰Protective cat dad

I believe I've stumbled upon my favorite read of the year with 'The Darkest Corner of the Heart' by Lisina Coney, the second installment in 'The Brightest Light' series. Words escape me as I attempt to capture the magic this book has woven into my heart, undoubtedly securing its place among my all-time favorites.

Lisina's writing is a masterpiece; the emotions she paints are breathtakingly realistic, making every moment feel authentic and relatable. Maddie, the 21-year-old ballet dancer recovering from an accident, stole my heart. Her resilience, kindness, and humor in the face of adversity made her a character I yearned to hug. Her journey of self-discovery resonated deeply, navigating challenges with grace and unwavering determination.

Then enters James, the grumpy yet deeply caring physical therapist. His past betrayals and shattered dreams make him cautious, but his protective and loving nature toward Maddie melts any resistance. The palpable tension & love between them is riveting, creating a connection so strong that it's unparalleled in my reading experience.

The spice in their relationship is off the charts, adding a layer of intensity that kept me hooked. Watching Maddie and James grow individually and together, overcoming past traumas, was both heartwarming and inspiring. And, oh, the bond Maddie shares with her brother, his wife, and niece is portrayed as the epitome of familial support, leaving me in awe of its pure and unfiltered beauty.

I am genuinely at a loss for words to describe the perfection of this book. A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley and Lisina Coney for the privilege of reading this ARC. I eagerly anticipate delving into more of Lisina's creations, eager to be enchanted once again.

I was very excited to get an arc after having read her first book" The Brightest Light of Sunshine" and loving it! This one was just as good! It has an age gap, forbidden romance, grumpy cat dad, slow burn and the perfect spice. I loved reading about Maddie all grown up (21) and finding her way through some insecurities she has and figuring out what she wants after her dream comes crashing down. Which is how she meets James, her Physical Therapist. He is a grumpy cat dad who is all about showing her how amazing she is, the love she deserves, and protecting her even though he feels like he does not deserve or be allowed to have her because of his own struggles, being 10 years older and her Doctor. I love that Lisina keeps their relationship as just doctor and patient while he is treating her, while also showing us that they are both starting to feel something for each other. I love that we got to see Cal and Grace again along with their daughter Lila!! Lisina is amazing at writing heart-felt characters with so many layers. I hope another story is on the way soon!!
Thanks, Lisina Coney and netgalley for the eARC.

3⭐️ Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

While I did enjoy this book, there were a few things that kept it from me rating it higher. One being the constant mentioning of their age gap. The other was the experience the fmc had with a therapist in her past, it just threw me off a bit too much. Over all this was quick read and I def will read the 3rd book!

📚 Darkest Corner of the Heart
✍ Lisina Coney
📖 Contemporary, Romance, Fiction
.
.
Following her heart and dreams, Maddie Steven's mind is set on be a professional ballerina. She keeps working hard for it, until one wrong move shatters all what she's been dreaming of..
James Simmons is a Physical Therapist. What he would never expect would be to find someone who will rattle all his walls, leaving nothing but raw emotions.. the very ones he thought long gone..
.
Two broken hearts, a beautiful journey of healing, of sel-worth, regaing faith and to finding love when least expected..
.
All the feels:
❤ forbidden romance
❤ age gap
❤ forced proximity
❤ slow burn
❤ journey of healing
❤ dating apps
❤ mandalas
❤ grumpy Dad cat

Darkest Corner of the Heart is about a girl named Maddie, she's a ballet dancer whose injury shattered her hopes of chasing her dreams. Because she's only 21 and wants to continue working towards her future, she decides to get some help from a physical therapist, James who is about 10 years older. I loved these characters; I think that they're well-written and their love story was great because it was forbidden. During the times they shared, lines blur, and their chemistry sizzles. The pacing is perfect, and the emotional depth keeps you engaged, the writing style is evocative, and it makes you feel like you're there. The setting adds to the charm and Maddie's determination and James's complexity adds to the romance. If you're a fan of intense romance, complex characters, age-gap romances, and slow-burn stories this is the book for you!
Also included that I forgot to mention: themes of alcoholism, drugs, profanity, and explicit scenes.

I just reviewed Darkest Corner of the Heart by Lisina Coney. #DarkestCorneroftheHeart #NetGalley

I adore the first one and all its beauty, but this one has my heart. I loved getting to see Maddie and James’ story. We love grumpy sunshine, workplace romance and age gap. James literally is the best protector and his dirty talk was everything. Maddie’s self doubts and anxious thoughts are something everyone with anxiety can relate to. I can’t wait to read more from this author.

4.75 ⭐️ I loved this book so much I finished it in one sitting. The premise of a ballerina injured and physical therapist was new to me and it was so interesting. I can’t wait for more books

This book…. I don’t have the words!!! It’s so much more than a romance story. I felt all the emotions reading this book.

Reading about James and Maddies personal healing journeys was so inspirational.

This book is 100% a 5 star read for me.

James is the biggest green flag of them all. I loved his character and the way he cared for Maddie. He is the type of man, that is romance book girlies are both obsessed with, and also long for. And he’s hot !!

Maddie, was so inspirational to read about and relate to. If I could trade places with Maddie, to spend a night with James…. Hehe

I’m so glad I got the opportunity to read this book, and I’ve already recommended it to all my friends as a MUST READ for when it releases.

When Maddie Stevens injures her ankle before a ballet audition, her life feels over at twenty-one. So, when she begins her physical therapy with James Simmons, a man who seems continuously grumpy, she realises that the next six weeks will be a challenge. Yet, she has to admit that despite him being ten years old, she is captivated by him, from his handsome beard to his deep sexy voice. When their sessions together end, it seems that neither wants this to end but both have doubts as to their new relationship.
Several sensitive issues are addressed in this book, ranging from alcoholism, drug abuse and death and whilst the author does not shy away from the feelings that both main characters feel, the topics are handled carefully. Age was promoted as an issue and at times, the immaturity of Maddie is apparent in her insecurities but James’ approach to assuage her fears, did show his maturity. Overall, a great read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

James & Maddie

Tropes:
•Age Gap (10yrs)
•Forbidden Relationship
•Family Drama

Quotes:
•”If I had to guess why I was the lucky winner of such a fun childhood, I would tell you some people are just born with it. Bad luck, I mean.”

•"Why do you think I would ever leave?”
…."Everyone does, eventually. Just...Just don't do it in a cruel way. Please."

Thoughts:
This book is as much of a story of personal growth as it is a romance. James and Maddie both have pasts that dictate their decisions in life. Pasts that limit their ability to trust others and build relationships. Their journey toward trusting each other was a slow and steady path with hiccups along the way. Their journeys of healing added so much to this story. Lisina has a beautiful way of building plots that don’t always go the way you think they will. If you enjoy stories that include personal growth and healing, family drama and spice you’ll enjoy this story.

(Dual POV and Spicy)

#LisinaConey

4.5 stars

I don’t typically read contemporary romance, but this one was a pleasant surprise! When I found out Maddie was getting her own book, I knew I’d have to read it. I ended up enjoying this more than The Brightest Light of Sunshine.

There are some dark themes in The Darkest Corner of the Heart, but it was nothing short of empowering watching Maddie bloom into a confident woman who knows her worth and isn’t afraid to ask for the love she knows she deserves. Her journey was a vulnerable one and felt raw and meaningful.

Maddie and James have experienced similar struggles, so they can connect in a way they wouldn't be able to with someone else. Their pining was a lot of fun to read, and because they tried so hard to not cross any boundaries, I cheered when they finally gave in. Maddie and James complement each other well, and I love how they discovered new dreams by growing together, as well as individuals.

I was so happy seeing Cal and Grace again (and Lila! I loved her!). And I’m glad this isn’t the last time we’ll see these characters! I’m keeping my eyes peeled for any news about what’s next for them.

Thank you, NetGalley and Page & Vine, for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Review: The Darkest Corner of the Heart

I was eagerly anticipating Coney’s second novel, having been charmed (4⭐️) by her debut, 'The Brightest Light of Sunshine.' However, 'The Darkest Corner of the Heart' unfortunately fell short of my expectations.

Tropes:
· Slow-burn romance
· Age gap (10 years)
· Grumpy physical therapist MMC
· Ballerina (patient) FMC
· Forbidden romance

The book delves into sensitive themes like mental health struggles, addiction, and complex family dynamics, offering a narrative of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of love. While I'm usually drawn to emotionally rich romances, I found the repetitive nature of the characters' inner turmoil and self-doubt a bit overwhelming.

One aspect that particularly frustrated me was the limited understanding of ballet, rehabilitation, and physical therapy evident in the narrative. As someone with some knowledge in these areas, I couldn't help but notice inaccuracies and inconsistencies, such as the portrayal of Maddie's rehearsal sequence, which didn’t make sense. Additionally, the handling of Maddie's injury and treatment didn't align with professional standards, detracting from the authenticity of the storyline. While I hate to sound overly critical, these lapses in research and insight significantly impacted my immersion in the story.

Despite these shortcomings, I did find merit in the central characters and the overarching story. As the focus shifted from injury and rehabilitation to the characters' personal growth and burgeoning relationship, the story gained momentum, and the connection between Maddie and James became more palpable.

In summary, while 'The Darkest Corner of the Heart' had its flaws, it still offered a compelling storyline and engaging characters. Though the execution may not have been flawless, there were moments of genuine connection that redeemed the reading experience to some extent.

Rating: 2.5⭐️

I extend my gratitude to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.