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The Truth About Love Duet #2
The Brighton Effect
The Brighton Effect is book two of The Truth About Love Duet, an emotional contemporary romance/women's fiction hybrid.
Brighton Kerrington
Olivia North was everything I always wanted. From the moment I laid eyes on her, I knew nothing would stop me from having her. Not even her husband, Ryan. In the end, I got her. Maybe it wasn’t all to myself, but Olivia was worth every sacrifice I made to be with her.
What started as a chance to help Olivia heal from the loss of her babies, ended up changing us all forever. Because there wasn’t anything Ryan and I wouldn’t do to make her happy—including sharing her love. Forgiveness and healing are strange bedfellows, but when it comes to love, nothing is off limits.
But everything comes at a cost, and there are key moments that end up changing our lives forever—altering the trajectory we were once on. Before all is said and done, the three of us end up paying more than we ever bargained for. Could our unorthodox love survive the hands of fate, or was it all just the beginning of the end?
Trigger Warning: The main character is dealing with the grief from miscarriages and a still birth in the near past.
Brighton Kerrington
Olivia North was everything I always wanted. From the moment I laid eyes on her, I knew nothing would stop me from having her. Not even her husband, Ryan. In the end, I got her. Maybe it wasn’t all to myself, but Olivia was worth every sacrifice I made to be with her.
What started as a chance to help Olivia heal from the loss of her babies, ended up changing us all forever. Because there wasn’t anything Ryan and I wouldn’t do to make her happy—including sharing her love. Forgiveness and healing are strange bedfellows, but when it comes to love, nothing is off limits.
But everything comes at a cost, and there are key moments that end up changing our lives forever—altering the trajectory we were once on. Before all is said and done, the three of us end up paying more than we ever bargained for. Could our unorthodox love survive the hands of fate, or was it all just the beginning of the end?
Trigger Warning: The main character is dealing with the grief from miscarriages and a still birth in the near past.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2021
About the author
C.M. Albert
15 books940 followersUSA Today bestselling author C.M. Albert writes heartwarming romances that are “sexy and flirty, sweet and dirty!” Her writing infuses a healthy blend of humor, high-heat romance, and most of all—hope. When not writing, or kid-wrangling with her handsome hubby, she’s either meditating, kayaking, reading, hugging a tree, or asleep. But first, coffee. #TonyStarkForever
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Website: www.colleenalbert.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
May 6, 2021
This duet is the first books I've ever read by this author, and TRUST ME when I say that she now has a super fan for life. When I first started reading TTP (and finished two hours later that same night) I messaged Colleen and basically begged for this second book and her being the generous person she is, she gave it to me without a second thought! And then I proceeded to blow up her DM's once more while I was reading the heartbreaking continuation of Ryan/Liv/Brighton's love. Oh my goodness, I'm getting teary just thinking about it.
Now, this book took some unexpected twists, but one of my favorites was the progression of Ryan and Brighton. Two very different men, who are so in love with Olivia and never thought they would ever be attracted to a man, start to fall in love with each other in the most genuine way possible. Seriously, just all the tears. Here I was thinking that Liv would have to be forced to choose one man over the other, and then that happens?! Best. Thing. Ever. Of course this cute little devil had to go and take an anvil to my heart and smash it into smithereens by the end of the book all over again, but I will one day forgive her. *cries enternally.*
I refuse to give any spoilers in my review, mainly because I value my life and I know that CM will hunt me down, but also because this is such an incredibly beautiful and moving love story. It takes so much strength to allow another person into your marriage with the good intensions of bringing your wife back to life, but to make room for your heart for him as well when you see the other person and your wife falling in a different love than the two of you share? Oh goodness my poor heart. As much as I love Brighton (because dammit, I do,) Ryan was the real hero of this series. He was the glue that kept them altogether, and his selfless love really set the bar for every other book boyfriend/husband. If the roles were reversed, there is no way I would let my husband willingly sleep with another woman. I'm much too psycho for that, lol, but this was done in such a beautiful way.. gosh I can't stop gushing. And my baby Olivia-- she fucking BLOOMED (yes, I did that on purpose here) she not only found the person she used to be, but she became even stronger and just a better version of herself.
This is easily one of the best duets I've ever read, and I really encourage you all to put your reservations at the door and truly invest yourselves into the beauty of these amazing characters. This duet will stay in my heart always. Hand down a must read(s) of the year!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Now, this book took some unexpected twists, but one of my favorites was the progression of Ryan and Brighton. Two very different men, who are so in love with Olivia and never thought they would ever be attracted to a man, start to fall in love with each other in the most genuine way possible. Seriously, just all the tears. Here I was thinking that Liv would have to be forced to choose one man over the other, and then that happens?! Best. Thing. Ever. Of course this cute little devil had to go and take an anvil to my heart and smash it into smithereens by the end of the book all over again, but I will one day forgive her. *cries enternally.*
I refuse to give any spoilers in my review, mainly because I value my life and I know that CM will hunt me down, but also because this is such an incredibly beautiful and moving love story. It takes so much strength to allow another person into your marriage with the good intensions of bringing your wife back to life, but to make room for your heart for him as well when you see the other person and your wife falling in a different love than the two of you share? Oh goodness my poor heart. As much as I love Brighton (because dammit, I do,) Ryan was the real hero of this series. He was the glue that kept them altogether, and his selfless love really set the bar for every other book boyfriend/husband. If the roles were reversed, there is no way I would let my husband willingly sleep with another woman. I'm much too psycho for that, lol, but this was done in such a beautiful way.. gosh I can't stop gushing. And my baby Olivia-- she fucking BLOOMED (yes, I did that on purpose here) she not only found the person she used to be, but she became even stronger and just a better version of herself.
This is easily one of the best duets I've ever read, and I really encourage you all to put your reservations at the door and truly invest yourselves into the beauty of these amazing characters. This duet will stay in my heart always. Hand down a must read(s) of the year!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
May 5, 2021
The Brighton Effect by C.M. Albert is one of those books that make me dig deep into my feels. And that's not always an easy or comfortable task. And this book made me go crazy in so many way. I was angry. I was frustrated. I was swooning so hard. I was wondering how love can be so beautiful and hurtful at the same time.
Ryan decided to invite their neighbour Brighton into his marriage with Olivia. Because she was drowning in darkness and he love her too much to do anything to make her alive. This was supposed to be a sensual arrangement but soon hearts got involved. And honestly there is no way all of them could survive. But the author gave it an unconventional twist. Making it a love story of three. Not a triangle. And I was loving it all till that happened. And I am not sure I am ok with that.
So full disclosure. I am Team Ryan. I think he is the one who suffered the most in this story. It takes a lot to open one's heart to a third person. To open their beds to a stranger. Yes he fell for Brighton too but it took the toll on him. I felt he gave up and up and up till he had nothing left. And that ending wasn't really fair for him. Well not that I was expecting it to be. I am grateful that the author made it a three way love story where they all have love for each other. And that did lessen my pain a bit. But Olivia and Brighton, on the other hand, they found healing and hope in each other. And Ryan was the glue in their relationship. Unfortunately I didn't love Brighton as much as I did in book 1. He pushed and pushed for more that wasn't easy on Ryan and Liv. Trust me, I tried hard to be non judgmental and look neutrally at his pain for being in love with a woman he cannot claim fully. But at the end, I felt he got everything. Again, it might be my Ryan coloured specs. I didn't expect it to be an easy or conventional read. It was messy and sometimes ugly. Brutally heartbreaking and also at the same time heartwarming.
If you want an unconventional love story that will push the limits of your heart and soul, The Brighton Effect by C.M. Albert is for you. Fair warning- it's not for everyone. It's a love story that cut and expose. That hurts and heals.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Ryan decided to invite their neighbour Brighton into his marriage with Olivia. Because she was drowning in darkness and he love her too much to do anything to make her alive. This was supposed to be a sensual arrangement but soon hearts got involved. And honestly there is no way all of them could survive. But the author gave it an unconventional twist. Making it a love story of three. Not a triangle. And I was loving it all till that happened. And I am not sure I am ok with that.
So full disclosure. I am Team Ryan. I think he is the one who suffered the most in this story. It takes a lot to open one's heart to a third person. To open their beds to a stranger. Yes he fell for Brighton too but it took the toll on him. I felt he gave up and up and up till he had nothing left. And that ending wasn't really fair for him. Well not that I was expecting it to be. I am grateful that the author made it a three way love story where they all have love for each other. And that did lessen my pain a bit. But Olivia and Brighton, on the other hand, they found healing and hope in each other. And Ryan was the glue in their relationship. Unfortunately I didn't love Brighton as much as I did in book 1. He pushed and pushed for more that wasn't easy on Ryan and Liv. Trust me, I tried hard to be non judgmental and look neutrally at his pain for being in love with a woman he cannot claim fully. But at the end, I felt he got everything. Again, it might be my Ryan coloured specs. I didn't expect it to be an easy or conventional read. It was messy and sometimes ugly. Brutally heartbreaking and also at the same time heartwarming.
If you want an unconventional love story that will push the limits of your heart and soul, The Brighton Effect by C.M. Albert is for you. Fair warning- it's not for everyone. It's a love story that cut and expose. That hurts and heals.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
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May 7, 2021I’m so glad I stayed away from this mess. Poor Ryan didn’t deserve this. I’m sorry but the guy was a good one. He finally gets a baby to only die. Like what the hell.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2021
C.M. Albert continues this duet of love with the same types of twist and turns as The Truth Pact. The Brighton Effect does not disappoint. The journey of love, marriage, and heartbreak continues in this story of Ryan and Olivia and how one person can come into your life and completely change the way you live life, love one another, and see yourself. The Brighton Effect will make you feel, think, and see love in a new way that will stay with your mind and heart for a long time. This duet is not to be missed!
May 16, 2021
The Truth Pact was a hard read for me, I almost walked away from it several times because it literally hurt my heart and then when it ended the way it did I honestly cried. So when I say I NEEDED this book, I’m not exaggerating. I was afraid to start reading, my heart couldn’t take anymore but I finally took the plunge and I was so mad at myself for not reading this sooner. There were still many twists and turns that tugged at my heart and dug deep into my feels but there was also so much love. I’m talking the bone deep love that you grab onto with both hands and never let go. Brighton, Ryan and Oliva had a connection that was beyond anything most could comprehend. Their dynamic was steamy and emotional and just everything!! This duet was quite different from anything I’ve ever read before but it was absolutely perfectly written and now in my top reads ever.
May 3, 2021
This is one of those stories that you have to finish, cry and sit with to really understand how brilliant it is. For someone who reads a lot of books, this one will stay with me forever.
I thought for sure I knew how the second part of the duet was going to go.... and for the first 60% of it, I was right.
This is not at all a conventional love story. And most marriages could not survive something like this. But Ryan, Liv and Brighton made me a believer. And I hope some day, we can look at something like this and think of it no differently than any other family or people who love each other.
It's not all candy and flowers and this is what I love about what CM Albert did here. She showed you the ugly parts and the beautiful parts. The uncomfortable conversations and communication it takes for these three to work.
I am in awe of Ryan and the lengths he would go to to make Liv happy and healthy. That is a true bond right there and it takes a strong man to be able to say that "I'm not enough, but I'm going do what it takes to save my soul mate." I am still feeling their love in my heart and I will not forget these characters.
I thought for sure I knew how the second part of the duet was going to go.... and for the first 60% of it, I was right.
This is not at all a conventional love story. And most marriages could not survive something like this. But Ryan, Liv and Brighton made me a believer. And I hope some day, we can look at something like this and think of it no differently than any other family or people who love each other.
It's not all candy and flowers and this is what I love about what CM Albert did here. She showed you the ugly parts and the beautiful parts. The uncomfortable conversations and communication it takes for these three to work.
I am in awe of Ryan and the lengths he would go to to make Liv happy and healthy. That is a true bond right there and it takes a strong man to be able to say that "I'm not enough, but I'm going do what it takes to save my soul mate." I am still feeling their love in my heart and I will not forget these characters.
May 6, 2021
I loved this duet but it equally frustrated me to the bones especially towards the end, that twist had me tugging my hair cause I didn’t know what it would represent but overall this duet is full of heartbreaking moments, tender moments and tragic beauty. Now I am so very much in love with Ryan, this man loves his wife so much he would do anything to bring the light back to her eyes even at his own determent. I found is wife Olivia insanely selfish, I might be in the minority with that comment but I felt for her and the trauma she’s been through but I didn’t like she needed Brighton to bring her back from the brink that bothered me but the connection between these three was undeniable and the story was beautiful
April 18, 2021
This is going to be really hard to verbalise what I want to say about this book mostly because well spoilers, but also because I feel like I am going to word vomit all over the page and hope that it resembles some sort of sensical rambling.
Firstly you HAVE TO READ THIS DUET! Whether you are a fan of love triangles or not, this is not what you think it's going to be and Colleen beautifully crafts the story all about the emotional journey of the three main characters - Olivia, Ryan and Brighton. From start to finish I could not put this book down, I was completely swept away by the story and entirely consumed by the characters depth and complexity of the plot.
I thought I knew where this book was going to go, it picked right up from where The Truth Pact ended; but I couldn't have been more wrong. The writing showed great skill in portraying the emotions needed to really breathe life into these three characters. It truly highlights that love knows no bounds, it's blinding, it's all consuming and it's endless when you find the right person. It showcased that life is full of colour amidst all the grey and that happiness is worth taking while it's standing right in front of you. What others define as love is not universal for all and expressing love regardless of the box it's meant to come in is freeing and this book says all of these things.
The Truth About Love Duet is a tale that will challenge your thoughts and open your heart up to the story of three normal people, who go through things many of us have experienced or know someone who has. How they survive, drown in grief, rise from the ashes and thrive in love is something we can all admire and learn from. This duet is a one that I will continue to recommend for years to come. If I book hold me captive like this one did and has me wanting to tell everyone who will listen about it then I know it's going to stay with me for a long time to come.
Firstly you HAVE TO READ THIS DUET! Whether you are a fan of love triangles or not, this is not what you think it's going to be and Colleen beautifully crafts the story all about the emotional journey of the three main characters - Olivia, Ryan and Brighton. From start to finish I could not put this book down, I was completely swept away by the story and entirely consumed by the characters depth and complexity of the plot.
I thought I knew where this book was going to go, it picked right up from where The Truth Pact ended; but I couldn't have been more wrong. The writing showed great skill in portraying the emotions needed to really breathe life into these three characters. It truly highlights that love knows no bounds, it's blinding, it's all consuming and it's endless when you find the right person. It showcased that life is full of colour amidst all the grey and that happiness is worth taking while it's standing right in front of you. What others define as love is not universal for all and expressing love regardless of the box it's meant to come in is freeing and this book says all of these things.
The Truth About Love Duet is a tale that will challenge your thoughts and open your heart up to the story of three normal people, who go through things many of us have experienced or know someone who has. How they survive, drown in grief, rise from the ashes and thrive in love is something we can all admire and learn from. This duet is a one that I will continue to recommend for years to come. If I book hold me captive like this one did and has me wanting to tell everyone who will listen about it then I know it's going to stay with me for a long time to come.
September 9, 2021
After reading The Truth Pact and the way that story left off, I had an idea of where The Brighton Effect might go.......BUT whoa. This story......I don't think there will ever truly be words to describe how I felt after finishing this intense, amazing, beautiful, heartbreaking, wonderful story. The journey CM Albert took Ryan, Olivia, and Brighton (as well as the readers) on was nothing short of epic. The story really pushes so many boundaries of what you would do to make the person you love the most happy, as well as just one's thoughts and feelings on love.
I want to say so much more, because there's just so much to say - but I would hate to spoil someone's experience reading the story. And I'm thankful I finally took the advice to read this story because it will be one I will never forget - easily one of my favorites of 2021 and one of my favorites of all-time.
I want to say so much more, because there's just so much to say - but I would hate to spoil someone's experience reading the story. And I'm thankful I finally took the advice to read this story because it will be one I will never forget - easily one of my favorites of 2021 and one of my favorites of all-time.
July 25, 2021
Love transcends all
Wow! This book was incredibly beautiful. This story spoke volumes and touched my heart in so many ways. A favorite of 2021 a must read.
Wow! This book was incredibly beautiful. This story spoke volumes and touched my heart in so many ways. A favorite of 2021 a must read.
May 6, 2021
A bittersweet tale of love, loss, heartache and grief. But also one of pure, unadulterated joy, bliss, true happiness and filled with more love than anything.
The Brighton Effect was a wonderful end to The Truth About Love Duet. There was a major twist that was unforeseen and heartbreaking. But for all the tears I shed, I am beyond glad that I read it.
I’m sat here wondering how to word a review of this story when I am floundering for the words to do it justice. My answer is that words will never do it justice. You’ll have to read it yourself to see what I mean. But, I can tell you a few things on my mind right now...
Olivia North Wells is one of the strongest female lead characters I’ve read in a long time. She was lost, she was broken, she was encompassed by more grief than anyone should ever have to endure. But it was amazing how she made it through to the other side. She had her wonderful husband Ryan and the man who changed everything that Ry and Liv ever thought about love; Brighton Kerrington.
Olivia underwent so much, more than anyone ever should, and because of those two men loving her back to life, she managed to steer her way through the fog of her grief and learn to love again. She deserved every ounce of joy that Ryan and Brighton brought into her life.
Ryan Wells was a wonderful man who had an incredible wife and found love where he least expected it. He went through so much grief with Liv, but he did something unexpected in order to bring her back to him. He opened his mind and his heart to Brighton, the man who helped heal Olivia. Ryan was formidable. He was steadfast in his love for Olivia. He went through so much himself, yet he was selfless in his aim to bring Olivia out of the fog of her grief. He did things many a man would not be able to do. He was one of the best male lead characters I’ve read in a long while, all because of his selflessness, his love, his strength and his ability to cope with everything life threw at him.
Brighton Kerrington was someone I thought would tear everything Olivia and Ryan ever knew asunder. And he did just that. But not in a bad way. Not at all. He was a breath of fresh air. He had lost much in his own life, yet he was more concerned with Olivia and Ryan. He helped them through their pain, their heartache, and their losses, until they came out the other side. The three of them were so much stronger for ever having known each other.
This man was a constant surprise, a steadfast, loyal friend, a man who you knew you could rely on. He had the biggest heart and the kindest soul. At first, I worried that meeting him would change everything in a bad way. But the more I got to know him over the course of the two books of this duet, the more I realised that whilst he would change everything and challenge perceptions, he did so with love in his heart and Olivia and Ryan were truly blessed for having known him. Had he not come into their lives when he did, I’m not sure how the story would have played out.
At first I was mad at CM Albert for bringing him into The Truth Pact, but gradually I opened my heart and my mind to him and I am truly glad that I did. He changed my perceptions and he challenged what I thought I knew, but he did so in a good way.
This story is beautifully written and expertly told from the first word to the last. It’s a story I know I shall not soon forget.
When we read, we read to escape reality. We want to be transported somewhere else, if only for a little while. And this duet did that for me in a way I never realised I wanted or needed.
Though ground in the reality of their losses, this story transported me to the pages to live right alongside this extraordinary trio. I felt like I truly knew Olivia’s, Ryan’s and Brighton’s hearts. They brought an unexpected realism and an unprecedented amount of love with them. They were characters I could carry on reading about forever and never tire of them.
Through so much grief, loss and heartache, there was so much more to experience. Joy, true happiness and an abundance of love. Their story touched my heart deeply and for that, I am grateful to CM Albert for giving me these selfless, incredible characters and their story.
Three lives intertwined in such an emotional roller coaster. I experienced a myriad of feelings from the first moment to the last.
In my opinion, these two may be the best books CM Albert has written to date. They tugged on my heartstrings more than I thought possible.
I finished the book with tears burning my eyes and racing each other down my cheeks. But would I go back and not read them? Absolutely not.
The Brighton Effect was a wonderful end to The Truth About Love Duet. There was a major twist that was unforeseen and heartbreaking. But for all the tears I shed, I am beyond glad that I read it.
I’m sat here wondering how to word a review of this story when I am floundering for the words to do it justice. My answer is that words will never do it justice. You’ll have to read it yourself to see what I mean. But, I can tell you a few things on my mind right now...
Olivia North Wells is one of the strongest female lead characters I’ve read in a long time. She was lost, she was broken, she was encompassed by more grief than anyone should ever have to endure. But it was amazing how she made it through to the other side. She had her wonderful husband Ryan and the man who changed everything that Ry and Liv ever thought about love; Brighton Kerrington.
Olivia underwent so much, more than anyone ever should, and because of those two men loving her back to life, she managed to steer her way through the fog of her grief and learn to love again. She deserved every ounce of joy that Ryan and Brighton brought into her life.
Ryan Wells was a wonderful man who had an incredible wife and found love where he least expected it. He went through so much grief with Liv, but he did something unexpected in order to bring her back to him. He opened his mind and his heart to Brighton, the man who helped heal Olivia. Ryan was formidable. He was steadfast in his love for Olivia. He went through so much himself, yet he was selfless in his aim to bring Olivia out of the fog of her grief. He did things many a man would not be able to do. He was one of the best male lead characters I’ve read in a long while, all because of his selflessness, his love, his strength and his ability to cope with everything life threw at him.
Brighton Kerrington was someone I thought would tear everything Olivia and Ryan ever knew asunder. And he did just that. But not in a bad way. Not at all. He was a breath of fresh air. He had lost much in his own life, yet he was more concerned with Olivia and Ryan. He helped them through their pain, their heartache, and their losses, until they came out the other side. The three of them were so much stronger for ever having known each other.
This man was a constant surprise, a steadfast, loyal friend, a man who you knew you could rely on. He had the biggest heart and the kindest soul. At first, I worried that meeting him would change everything in a bad way. But the more I got to know him over the course of the two books of this duet, the more I realised that whilst he would change everything and challenge perceptions, he did so with love in his heart and Olivia and Ryan were truly blessed for having known him. Had he not come into their lives when he did, I’m not sure how the story would have played out.
At first I was mad at CM Albert for bringing him into The Truth Pact, but gradually I opened my heart and my mind to him and I am truly glad that I did. He changed my perceptions and he challenged what I thought I knew, but he did so in a good way.
This story is beautifully written and expertly told from the first word to the last. It’s a story I know I shall not soon forget.
When we read, we read to escape reality. We want to be transported somewhere else, if only for a little while. And this duet did that for me in a way I never realised I wanted or needed.
Though ground in the reality of their losses, this story transported me to the pages to live right alongside this extraordinary trio. I felt like I truly knew Olivia’s, Ryan’s and Brighton’s hearts. They brought an unexpected realism and an unprecedented amount of love with them. They were characters I could carry on reading about forever and never tire of them.
Through so much grief, loss and heartache, there was so much more to experience. Joy, true happiness and an abundance of love. Their story touched my heart deeply and for that, I am grateful to CM Albert for giving me these selfless, incredible characters and their story.
Three lives intertwined in such an emotional roller coaster. I experienced a myriad of feelings from the first moment to the last.
In my opinion, these two may be the best books CM Albert has written to date. They tugged on my heartstrings more than I thought possible.
I finished the book with tears burning my eyes and racing each other down my cheeks. But would I go back and not read them? Absolutely not.
April 27, 2021
I must say that The Brighton Effect was more than I bargained for...it nearly cost me my sanity and my heart. This story was beyond any and all expectations. I could never do this book justice but from my heart, this book is truly extraordinary. And Brighton affected my book loving heart 💜.
Book 2 of The Truth About Love Duet begins a remarkable journey for this trio. Unimaginable losses, finds, and adjustments entwine their lives, separate and together. While bittersweet and heartbreaking, these three filled my heart with hope and love. Furthermore, the way these two men doled out romance, well, people take notes and learn from them. This is true wooing.
While it is difficult not to allow spoilers to invade here, be aware that the story is full of twists and turns and a heart stopping turn of events. (I was livid with this author and messaged her lol. She broke me, so I messaged her. Then she put me back together, and I once again messaged her. Throughout my entire ordeal, and yes it was an absolutely amazing ordeal, she held my hand. Just another example of what a phenomenal author she is.)
Olivia is a woman that was floundering. The loss of children left a void that couldn’t be filled and she was existing in darkness. But everything changed when her husband, while himself struggling, became willing to fill that void with friend and neighbor Brighton. Ryan realized that both Brighton and Olivia had developed more than casual feelings. But could the three of them forge a family without conflict and jealousy. Both men were willing to give up everything for this one profound woman. It seemed Olivia was each of their matching puzzle pieces. She made them as complete as they made her.
As they struggle and yet effortlessly maneuver this new relationship, comfort and a sense of rightness evolves. Individually they add to the family, as a trio they flourish. Adjustments, fears, common enemies, and the beginning of a new life seal their fate. But there are always casualties of war. And unfortunately, their battles have just begun.
Each character brought this story to life. While Olivia broke my heart, I understood her method for healing. Each man loved her unconditionally and bartered with every ounce of love, physical and emotional, to make this work. C.M. Albert made me fall in love with reading all over again.
But be fully aware that this story will break every part of you and yet bring undeniable happiness. This is an absolutely extraordinary love story!
Book 2 of The Truth About Love Duet begins a remarkable journey for this trio. Unimaginable losses, finds, and adjustments entwine their lives, separate and together. While bittersweet and heartbreaking, these three filled my heart with hope and love. Furthermore, the way these two men doled out romance, well, people take notes and learn from them. This is true wooing.
While it is difficult not to allow spoilers to invade here, be aware that the story is full of twists and turns and a heart stopping turn of events. (I was livid with this author and messaged her lol. She broke me, so I messaged her. Then she put me back together, and I once again messaged her. Throughout my entire ordeal, and yes it was an absolutely amazing ordeal, she held my hand. Just another example of what a phenomenal author she is.)
Olivia is a woman that was floundering. The loss of children left a void that couldn’t be filled and she was existing in darkness. But everything changed when her husband, while himself struggling, became willing to fill that void with friend and neighbor Brighton. Ryan realized that both Brighton and Olivia had developed more than casual feelings. But could the three of them forge a family without conflict and jealousy. Both men were willing to give up everything for this one profound woman. It seemed Olivia was each of their matching puzzle pieces. She made them as complete as they made her.
As they struggle and yet effortlessly maneuver this new relationship, comfort and a sense of rightness evolves. Individually they add to the family, as a trio they flourish. Adjustments, fears, common enemies, and the beginning of a new life seal their fate. But there are always casualties of war. And unfortunately, their battles have just begun.
Each character brought this story to life. While Olivia broke my heart, I understood her method for healing. Each man loved her unconditionally and bartered with every ounce of love, physical and emotional, to make this work. C.M. Albert made me fall in love with reading all over again.
But be fully aware that this story will break every part of you and yet bring undeniable happiness. This is an absolutely extraordinary love story!
May 6, 2021
I still feel like I'm recovering from the 'Brighton Effect', this duet, and a trio of imperfect soulmates that I have grown to love.
For my 'favorite' couple Ryan and Olivia Wells, their life is slowly developing into an oddly beautiful chaos balanced only by the presence of their neighbor and more, Brighton Kerrington. The love between these three is unconventional and it may be unusual for some. I could care less though, because I love this unique threesome and my heart was rooting for a happy ending for them.
Olivia and Brighton are always evergreen personalities to me, never really changing, but I never expected that from them. I really wanted to see how Ryan would navigate the major problems in his marriage. I have to say, I'm loving the changes in Ryan. His past need to coddle Olivia in spite of his own needs is gone and now he's finally being real with the ones he loves. While this story might be named after Brighton, I feel like it's truly Ryan's story. His personal growth ruled every page.
It's going to be awhile before I can let this story or these characters go. Ms. Albert has created a wonderful duet that left my emotions switching from angsty to heartbroken to finally settle on a bittersweet feeling for how this story ended. I know I'm being vague, but I have to mention this, please grab plenty of tissues before reading the final book in this duet. You will definitely need them! I know I did.
For my 'favorite' couple Ryan and Olivia Wells, their life is slowly developing into an oddly beautiful chaos balanced only by the presence of their neighbor and more, Brighton Kerrington. The love between these three is unconventional and it may be unusual for some. I could care less though, because I love this unique threesome and my heart was rooting for a happy ending for them.
Olivia and Brighton are always evergreen personalities to me, never really changing, but I never expected that from them. I really wanted to see how Ryan would navigate the major problems in his marriage. I have to say, I'm loving the changes in Ryan. His past need to coddle Olivia in spite of his own needs is gone and now he's finally being real with the ones he loves. While this story might be named after Brighton, I feel like it's truly Ryan's story. His personal growth ruled every page.
It's going to be awhile before I can let this story or these characters go. Ms. Albert has created a wonderful duet that left my emotions switching from angsty to heartbroken to finally settle on a bittersweet feeling for how this story ended. I know I'm being vague, but I have to mention this, please grab plenty of tissues before reading the final book in this duet. You will definitely need them! I know I did.
May 5, 2021
Wow! 5 stars is not enough. And I can accept when I'm wrong too. You see, when I read the first book of this Duet I was challenged. It took me a while. And not because it's a unique and unconventional love story. That only made it better and I was more than open for it. But because I disliked Olivia. So starting this book I was on the defensive. I am Ryan’s biggest champion. He became my favorite character and is now on my short list of best book boyfriends. Don't get me wrong, Brighton is amazing. He is a godsend and a blessing. He truly makes everything better. But to me Ryan is simply the epitome of pure love. He is the goal to be achieved. The man you need to love you in real life and the example to follow when it comes to love. The word love even seems to simple when it's put in the same sentence as this character. Even a little lacking compared to Ryan. And with him is how I discovered in later chapters that I thought I understood but with my many experiences, even similar ones, I was still short of reaching that magic. So then, all the feels came flooding. Really, all of them! Hope, loss, frustration, happiness. I cried but my heart fell full and in awe. I was shattered! This author really has a way with words that transfers perfectly to the characters. Not to mention, some plot twist that gave me whiplash. And in the end it feels like a big and unfair loss because it's a shame that I won't get to meet these united trio for the first time again.
April 21, 2021
MY RATING: 3*
RELEASE DATE: 06 May 2021
CLIFFHANGER: Yes
ARC was kindly provided for an honest review
Gosh. This book. Drove. Me. Up. The. wall. We pick up where we left off with this tale of love, marital ups and downs and heartbreak between Olivia, Ryan and Brighton. A telling of how what may seem insignificant or even temporary can have permanent change in one’s life in ways they never foresaw or even contemplated.
If you read my review of the Truth Pact you’ll know that I hate Olivia with the fire of a 1000 suns. And she did not come out of this book smelling of roses either. In fact I arguably hated her more here than I did in book one.
We pick up where we left off with Ryan and Olivia at a standstill basically following Olivia’s lie. In my mind I thought okay, Ryan is pissed, rightly so and its going to take some heavy lifting on Olivia’s part to get herself out of the doghouse. Or not?
There was so much that went on that just didn’t make sense and honestly, the love that Ryan had for his wife soon became stupidity.
This book infuriated me. I really wanted to love it. I tried really hard, but Ryan’s stupidity and Liz’s selfishness ruined it for me. It was way too much and beyond the realms of possibility for me that I couldn’t even relate to it. At one point my husband even suggested that I stop reading it as it was pissing me off so much. The whole time I was reading it, this was my face
May 5, 2021
I sure hope y'all kept your big girl panties on because Brighton definitely has an effect!!! This is a steamy, romantic, love filled, unbounded, beautiful heart break! The duet could not have ended any differently! And the best part is knowing how much love can change you, how different it is for everyone and that love is an open door! Did I seriously just bring frozen into this? Yep and I have no regrets!
Like I have said before with my review of book 1 TTP, read without judgement and just let this take you on a whirlwind of emotions! Let the story steal you away and make the feels come to life! It will change you! This will hold a piece of your heart! And you will not view this duet the same as you did when you started it. And more than likely, you will reread it all and feel so much different and still cry like a baby. So grab the tissues, some of your favorite snacks and a bottle of wine . . . This ending is worth all the twists and turns, ups and downs, and whiplash of this unforgettable emotional rollercoaster!
Like I have said before with my review of book 1 TTP, read without judgement and just let this take you on a whirlwind of emotions! Let the story steal you away and make the feels come to life! It will change you! This will hold a piece of your heart! And you will not view this duet the same as you did when you started it. And more than likely, you will reread it all and feel so much different and still cry like a baby. So grab the tissues, some of your favorite snacks and a bottle of wine . . . This ending is worth all the twists and turns, ups and downs, and whiplash of this unforgettable emotional rollercoaster!
April 25, 2021
Not sure I can ever forgive Colleen for what she put me through. Okay, I'm being a little dramatic but really right after I read this I messaged her "I'm never talking to you again! You deserve to be kicked in your elbows and your shins, Kbye!"
I Haven't read such an emotional duet in awhile, a story that completely squeezes out every feeling. The Brighton Effect took me completely out of my comfort zone and had me evaluating the choices I would make in the situation and I feel like that's what a great story is supposed to do.....push you and pull you.
This book is sensational, it's passionate and intense and maddening, just like the first book I couldn't put it down, in fact I had to start it while I was on vacation, there was no way I could wait until I got back home to see what happened to Ryan, Olivia and Brighton.
Again, this book is not for the faint of heart, not for the closed minded.....you need to be wide open for this story, it's as heartfelt as it is powerful and weeks later I'm still thinking about them. C.M. absolutely knocked it out of the park and wrote the hell out of this amazing story.
I Haven't read such an emotional duet in awhile, a story that completely squeezes out every feeling. The Brighton Effect took me completely out of my comfort zone and had me evaluating the choices I would make in the situation and I feel like that's what a great story is supposed to do.....push you and pull you.
This book is sensational, it's passionate and intense and maddening, just like the first book I couldn't put it down, in fact I had to start it while I was on vacation, there was no way I could wait until I got back home to see what happened to Ryan, Olivia and Brighton.
Again, this book is not for the faint of heart, not for the closed minded.....you need to be wide open for this story, it's as heartfelt as it is powerful and weeks later I'm still thinking about them. C.M. absolutely knocked it out of the park and wrote the hell out of this amazing story.
May 2, 2021
Totally book drop! The Brighton Effect takes place after The Truth Pact ends and it doesn’t waste any time grabbing hold of your emotions. Right from the start it goes from 0 to 100. Olivia made her choice at the end of TTP... but did she really? As time has started to move at the beginning of this book, Olivia is questioning her feelings and it all stems from the truth she didn’t give to Ryan when he asked for it. She does end up telling him and also how she really felt about him ending things before she was ready. After this revelation, Olivia, Ryan and Brighton all gravitate towards each other again and really talking about everything together.
They then get some very unexpected news. This story twist really brings them closer together. It’s not an easy journey and it’s terrifying, considering what all three have been through and how it affected each of them.
This book had me all in my feelings! Part of the ending shredded my heart. The ending wasn’t fully what I had been hoping for. This book was amazing! What a way to end this duet!
They then get some very unexpected news. This story twist really brings them closer together. It’s not an easy journey and it’s terrifying, considering what all three have been through and how it affected each of them.
This book had me all in my feelings! Part of the ending shredded my heart. The ending wasn’t fully what I had been hoping for. This book was amazing! What a way to end this duet!
April 29, 2021
The emotional ending to The Truth About Love duet.
Book 2 picks up with Olivia North Wells finally in therapy to deal with her overwhelming grief, and a little bit of guilt. Book 1 ended with Liv telling a lie to Ryan Wells, her husband of 8 years. After two miscarriages and one still birth, Liv settled into a deep depression and the duets cover all the emotional trauma surrounding such overwhelming loss and grief. Ryan’s main focus is on healing Liv and bringing back the happy, healthy, sexy wife he misses.
Ryan even ignores his own grief in order to save Liv. Brighton Kerrington entered the first book as a neighbor, turned friend of Ryan’s and eventually Brighton was incorporated into the marriage bed to help Liv heal.
While this is a complex and unconventional relationship, it worked for bringing back some of Liv’s joy and happiness.
There’s a surprise pregnancy, after all of the losses and a gut-wrenching twist to the story, but at the end of the day...... there is nothing but love that helps the ‘couple’ heal and grow.
The author has a profound statement at the end of the book in the acknowledgements, and it’s something I’ve embraced for many years...... “not everyone will understand their love......but it’s their love.”
And love is enduring, through all trials and tribulations, sometimes we just have to keep holding on through the trials until we can see the tribulations ahead.
Book 2 picks up with Olivia North Wells finally in therapy to deal with her overwhelming grief, and a little bit of guilt. Book 1 ended with Liv telling a lie to Ryan Wells, her husband of 8 years. After two miscarriages and one still birth, Liv settled into a deep depression and the duets cover all the emotional trauma surrounding such overwhelming loss and grief. Ryan’s main focus is on healing Liv and bringing back the happy, healthy, sexy wife he misses.
Ryan even ignores his own grief in order to save Liv. Brighton Kerrington entered the first book as a neighbor, turned friend of Ryan’s and eventually Brighton was incorporated into the marriage bed to help Liv heal.
While this is a complex and unconventional relationship, it worked for bringing back some of Liv’s joy and happiness.
There’s a surprise pregnancy, after all of the losses and a gut-wrenching twist to the story, but at the end of the day...... there is nothing but love that helps the ‘couple’ heal and grow.
The author has a profound statement at the end of the book in the acknowledgements, and it’s something I’ve embraced for many years...... “not everyone will understand their love......but it’s their love.”
And love is enduring, through all trials and tribulations, sometimes we just have to keep holding on through the trials until we can see the tribulations ahead.
April 27, 2021
Hmmmmm this book left me frustrated.
I love that CM has tackled difficult topics, and i love that she's done it in her own way.
But wow these characters really rubbed me up the wrong way. For some reason i could not like Brighton. His whole attitude about making her his. And then how they make Ryan out to be selfish. I just couldn't wrap my head around it.
Early on in the book I could see the final twist working its way in and I sooo hoped I was wrong, but was annoyed when I found out I was wasn't.
Don't get me wrong CM Albert is a great writer. These characters just weren't for me sadly.
I love that CM has tackled difficult topics, and i love that she's done it in her own way.
But wow these characters really rubbed me up the wrong way. For some reason i could not like Brighton. His whole attitude about making her his. And then how they make Ryan out to be selfish. I just couldn't wrap my head around it.
Early on in the book I could see the final twist working its way in and I sooo hoped I was wrong, but was annoyed when I found out I was wasn't.
Don't get me wrong CM Albert is a great writer. These characters just weren't for me sadly.
May 6, 2021
The Brighton Effect, the second book in the Truth About Love Duet, continues to explore and define the relationships between Ryan, Olivia, and Brighton. It is full of heart and soul. There are happy tears and sad tears as they heal from the tragedy of multiple losses, each one in their own way. The love is real and the lengths that Ryan and Olivia go to along with Brighton to heal and find true happiness is not the norm. It is beautiful to see how they overcome the obstacles in the relationship and deepen their connection to each other. Congratulations to CM Albert for another great romance and for having the courage to write a story of this caliber. The bottom line, love is love.
April 19, 2021
I'm almost at a loss for words for this book. I read it slower than usual because I wanted to make sure I didn't miss any of the amazing details CM Albert is known for having in her books.
This book though.....holy smokes. Just when I thought I knew where she was taking Olivia, Ryan, and Brighton, I was taken in routes I wasn't sure I could handle but am so glad I stayed with them through their story! This story left me in tears, both happy and sad. Emotions all across the board for this one. I smiled, laughed out loud, cried, and got all wound up at different points throughout this book.
I don't want to give any specific details away because I want every reader to take the journey themselves with this trio but I cannot recommend this book enough! BOTH The Truth Pact and The Brighton Effect are MUST READS!! You may find yourself wanting to throw your kindle across the room but I assure you that you will run after it to pick it back up as soon as it leaves your fingers!
Olivia, Ryan, and Brighton bring a whole new definition to what it means to love someone, to have your own family best suited to your needs and wants, and to never give up on someone you love with your entire self, soul, and being.
Major kudos to CM Albert for yet another amazing group of characters that I am so happy to have known through the pages she brings to life with them in it. THANK YOU for writing this incredible duet. Absolutely beautiful!
This book though.....holy smokes. Just when I thought I knew where she was taking Olivia, Ryan, and Brighton, I was taken in routes I wasn't sure I could handle but am so glad I stayed with them through their story! This story left me in tears, both happy and sad. Emotions all across the board for this one. I smiled, laughed out loud, cried, and got all wound up at different points throughout this book.
I don't want to give any specific details away because I want every reader to take the journey themselves with this trio but I cannot recommend this book enough! BOTH The Truth Pact and The Brighton Effect are MUST READS!! You may find yourself wanting to throw your kindle across the room but I assure you that you will run after it to pick it back up as soon as it leaves your fingers!
Olivia, Ryan, and Brighton bring a whole new definition to what it means to love someone, to have your own family best suited to your needs and wants, and to never give up on someone you love with your entire self, soul, and being.
Major kudos to CM Albert for yet another amazing group of characters that I am so happy to have known through the pages she brings to life with them in it. THANK YOU for writing this incredible duet. Absolutely beautiful!
April 26, 2021
Wow.... I thought the first book took me on an emotional journey....well I was Wrong. Book 2 took me to places I was Not expecting. This was not only an emotional journey it was a rollercoaster that spun off the track and crashed into a wall, in a good way. This book had me laughing, crying, smiling and screaming nooooo but I enjoyed every minute of it. Ryan, Olivia and Brighton loved each other more than anyone around them could ever understand. When Brighton came into Ryan and Olivia lives it was a very stressful time but eventually that became the best thing that ever happened to the three of them. I truly Loved this duet and these characters will be with me for awhile. This was a well written emotionally layered story that I truly Enjoyed.
April 23, 2021
They are so in sync with each other and have a beautiful relationship.
I knew my heart was going to take a battering. How do you choose? I know I wouldn’t be able to.
She really hit the jackpot with Ryan and Brighton.
There are few surprises in store. All in all, a great story.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
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I knew my heart was going to take a battering. How do you choose? I know I wouldn’t be able to.
She really hit the jackpot with Ryan and Brighton.
There are few surprises in store. All in all, a great story.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
For more reviews, news and giveaways, check out Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner at;
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest |
April 26, 2021
ARC Copy
After the end of Truth Pact, I don’t know what I expected of Brighton Effect. What I did were the tears I unsuccessfully hid!
CM Albert continues Livy’s, Ryan’s, and Brighton’s burgeoning love affair with humor, emotion, and more than enough heat to light a fire. It was a joy watching each character go through their own journey and figure out how to be the best version of themselves. The excitement of each story coming together, along with their histories, continuously brought tears to my eyes.
And all I’ll say, that ending...what an effect it had on me!
After the end of Truth Pact, I don’t know what I expected of Brighton Effect. What I did were the tears I unsuccessfully hid!
CM Albert continues Livy’s, Ryan’s, and Brighton’s burgeoning love affair with humor, emotion, and more than enough heat to light a fire. It was a joy watching each character go through their own journey and figure out how to be the best version of themselves. The excitement of each story coming together, along with their histories, continuously brought tears to my eyes.
And all I’ll say, that ending...what an effect it had on me!
May 6, 2021
The Brighton Effect is book two of The Truth About Love duet and it further explores the complicated relationship between Liv, Ryan and Brighton. If you read my review of The Truth Pact, you know that I was pretty conflicted when it came to this story. And I have to say that I'm maybe even more conflicted after reading book two. I was very frustrated by the characters throughout, especially Liv. It's a credit to Ms. Albert's talent that I stuck it out despite my frustration. She certainly knows how to vividly elucidate emotional struggle and pull the reader into the relationships she creates. The twist at the end definitely gave me pause. I'm not quite sure how I feel about it and whether it was done to give the characters an easy out. Despite all my misgivings, I was certainly engaged in this story and felt emotionally connected to it throughout. There's no doubt that C.M. Albert is a very talented author and I will follow her work in the future.
April 19, 2021
I might have been willing to sell my first born for a copy of THE BRIGHTON EFFECT.
And I'd be lying if I said I didn't drop everything the minute this book hit my kindle.
Ryan, Olivia and Brighton have consumed my thoughts, and my heart from my introduction to them in THE TRUTH PACT. And I was not disappointed.
The ending to this intensely emotional love story was everything I hoped and feared it would be and I'm totally spent after reading it.
C.M. Albert has penned what I can only describe as love defined in it's most raw, breathtaking and sublime form; she's broken down what it is to love, how to love and the basic essence of love in the purest, most beautiful way through the connection of these three superb characters.
To say this story hurt is an understatement.
Some will not agree with where the author goes, or how far she goes.
But it's her story. And it is really just so imperfectly perfect, I don't think I'd want it any other way, regardless of how heartbroken I am at it's end.
This is my stand-out, favourite read this year and will be the love story I will likely measure all others by from here on in. 6 star worthy!
And I'd be lying if I said I didn't drop everything the minute this book hit my kindle.
Ryan, Olivia and Brighton have consumed my thoughts, and my heart from my introduction to them in THE TRUTH PACT. And I was not disappointed.
The ending to this intensely emotional love story was everything I hoped and feared it would be and I'm totally spent after reading it.
C.M. Albert has penned what I can only describe as love defined in it's most raw, breathtaking and sublime form; she's broken down what it is to love, how to love and the basic essence of love in the purest, most beautiful way through the connection of these three superb characters.
To say this story hurt is an understatement.
Some will not agree with where the author goes, or how far she goes.
But it's her story. And it is really just so imperfectly perfect, I don't think I'd want it any other way, regardless of how heartbroken I am at it's end.
This is my stand-out, favourite read this year and will be the love story I will likely measure all others by from here on in. 6 star worthy!
April 25, 2021
The stunning conclusion to Ryan, Olivia and Brighton's love story. Lana~White Hot Reads
There were some twist I did not see coming with this trio. I love the fact Ryan and Brighton get a deeper, personal basis in this book and really let their feeling shows. I was hoping for this and I wasn't disappointed. Olivia is surrounded by love and it makes my heart feel happy for her. RNf then end this book teaches you about acceptance and love. The Brighton Effect sure did work.
There were some twist I did not see coming with this trio. I love the fact Ryan and Brighton get a deeper, personal basis in this book and really let their feeling shows. I was hoping for this and I wasn't disappointed. Olivia is surrounded by love and it makes my heart feel happy for her. RNf then end this book teaches you about acceptance and love. The Brighton Effect sure did work.
April 23, 2021
Beautifully written story. The three of them find their way through the winding road to happiness. The curve ball at the end though...damn. But the relationship between Brighton and Ryan is great they have such a good friendship. I love all the one liners that go through out the book. I recommend this one, even though I cried through the last several chapters, it was worth it!
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