This is the third book in the Off the Record series, although this is the first of the series I have read. I feel like I need to go back and read the first two books to understand everything better. This book was an emotional rollercoaster. It was dark and angsty. I love that the mental health aspect was dealt with. The characters were well written so that you can feel the love and loss they experience.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Collierhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Collier2023-09-08 09:02:532023-09-14 08:32:37Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Michelle Collier
Wow I loved this book. It’s definitely an intense read and it brought out A LOT of emotions, but that’s what I love in a book! I like to be on edge sometimes. I love the authors writing and it had me hooked right from the start! Also, I’m a sucker for rockstar romance so I knew I was going to enjoy this read!! Highly suggest! You also should read the other books in this series before starting this one! I can’t wait for the next one!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Sugarhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Sugar2023-08-22 22:22:272023-09-05 13:54:21Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Ashley Sugar
This was a great 5 star read. My emotions were all over the place. We continue with Spook’s story in this book. I was pulled in right from the beginning with a terrifying start. Spook has some dark things from his past that he is trying to get past. Xane is determined to help him get his life back. Will he be successful?
Overall this was a great read. Definitely keep the kleenex on hand. All of the characters added a great element to this story. I highly suggest reading the first books in the series so you are caught up on everything. I will warn that there may be triggers for some due to certain content. I can’t wait to read more from this author and series. 1-click and get started today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Austinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Austin2023-08-22 22:05:202023-09-05 13:53:59Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Michelle Austin
This was definitely an emotional book that drew me in instantly! I did read it as a standalone as I notoriously didn’t check to see that it was part of a series, but I have already planned to pick up the previous books. This author was new to me, so I was pleasantly surprised in their magnificent storytelling ability. They know exactly what engages the reader, so much so that I couldn’t put this book down! I feel like the characters were incredibly relatable, and the chemistry was sizzling. I cannot wait to see what this author has in store for us next. I will be waiting at the edge of my seat for more of this LGBTQ dark romance!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2023-08-22 20:10:052023-09-05 13:52:56Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Shannen Kern
This was definitely an emotional book that drew me in instantly! I did read it as a standalone as I notoriously didn’t check to see that it was part of a series, but I have already planned to pick up the previous books. This author was new to me, so I was pleasantly surprised in their magnificent storytelling ability. They know exactly what engages the reader, so much so that I couldn’t put this book down! I feel like the characters were incredibly relatable, and the chemistry was sizzling. I cannot wait to see what this author has in store for us next. I will be waiting at the edge of my seat for more of this LGBTQ dark romance!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2023-08-22 20:09:032023-11-22 08:27:29Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Shannen Kern
The best way to sum this book up is to simply say it is written by a very talented author who gives us a storyline and characters that are dark, gritty and full of emotion. Now I stupidly came to this series in book 3. Take my advice and don’t do that! Start from book one because it took me a while to get a proper grip on who everyone was and I only had a slight understanding of what had happened prior. I really believe had I started from the very beginning that I would have enjoyed the book so very much more because I would have understood the characters more. I will now go back and start again! This series is so worth it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Juleshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJules2023-08-22 06:52:432023-09-05 13:50:47Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Jules Herbert
This book was a very emotional and deeply intense read. It is the 3rd book in the Off The Record series which I didn’t realise until I was already too deep in. I will however be going back to read them in order as at times I did feel a bit lost knowing who the characters were and their role. That being said it didn’t stop this from being a emotional rollercoaster of a ride. It deals with loss, secrets, lies,depression,and friendship. It is the story of Spook who has a trouble past, a past that is still affecting him today even though he is successful. When things get too much for him and he gets the urge to run he does just that leaving behind the band and group of friends he loves and his gf. We follow not only Spooks journey through the darkness of depression and mental illness but also the effect it has on his friend Xane. Xane refuses to give up on Spook and refuses to let him go through things on his own. Xane is determined to fight for his friend at the cost of everything, his relationships, even his own mental well being take a back seat to saving Spook from the dark pit he finds himself in. The authors writing is amazing. The story grabs you right from the beginning and doesn’t let go. The story is really emotional but highlights the real struggle that some men go through but try to hide everyday. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us next but I have my tissues at the ready.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2023-08-20 12:56:492023-09-05 13:40:42Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Kerry Carr
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/178111157-refrain” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1690264548l/178111157._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/178111157-refrain”>Refrain</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/271150.Madelynne_Ellis”>Madelynne Ellis</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5781640812″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> Wow what can I say about this book, it is gritty in its dealings with depression, the dark cloud that Spook is dealing with, the support he receives or should (from some people) also shows how others deal with their loved one and their mental health, and how they deal with the demons that follow from the past. Xane is there throughout the story alongside Spook and Alle. <br /><br />It is the first book in the series I have read and really, I need to back track and read the other three. <br /><br />The characters are extremely beautifully written, and they pull you along this extreme rollercoaster ride of a story. I am waiting to read more (after I finish the first few). <br /><br />Tissues are needed in parts of the book, and some may find the deep areas a little hard to navigate, but otherwise a thoroughly enjoyable darkish read. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tracy Ghttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTracy G2023-08-20 05:28:312023-09-05 13:39:26Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh
Refrain (Off the Record) by Madelynne Ellis- 5 out of 5 stars
This is the third book in this amazing series. Let me just tell you, WOW, it takes you into a rabbit hole. The intensity that Spook goes through with his mental health is heartbreaking. After his soul mate’s brothers attacked him, Spook withdrew and ran from everything. I wanted to jump into the pages and give him a hug. This is definitely a must read! I do recommend reading from book one so that you don’t miss any important character developments.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elisha Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElisha Johnson2023-08-14 08:53:102023-08-23 07:57:05Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Elisha Johnson
5 Stars Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis
Refrain is the third book in the Off the Record Series and is a LBGTQ Romance that I absolutely loved reading. Its not at all what I expecting but so much more. This is not your typical Rock Star Romance. There’s drama, heartache, chemistry, friendship, inner demons and so much more. I didn’t realize I was starting in the middle of the⁶ series until after I had started reading. I’m definitely going to check out the other two books in this series. This way I have the full background of what has happened. Spook is a guitarist that has spent many years hiding from his very traumatic past. Now that his secrets are no longer secret he doesn’t know what to do other than run away. Spook takes us on quite the journey where some parts are intense and will pull at your heart strings . Can Spook get the help he needs? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I don’t want to give away anything. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2023-08-08 05:18:072023-08-16 13:44:50Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
Refrain is Book Three in the Off the Record Series. I will have to go back and read the first two books so that I get a better understanding of Spook and the rest of the characters’ backstories. This book is a continuation of Spook’s story and without reading the other books I did not have a full picture of him or his character. Spook has had a rough go of things and his traumatic past has caught up with him. Not only has his darkest secrets been exposed but they have been twisted to make even more sensational stories. Spook decides that it is best to walk away from everything he loves, including his beloved band Black Halo and his girlfriend Alle.
The book really puts the reader through the emotions as it starts off with Spook being found lying in a pool of his own blood by some of his friends. He is rushed off to the hospital and thankfully gets stitched back together but is unable to speak so he cannot say what happened to him. Xane is determined to help Spook and makes it his mission to do so. He wants Spook and Alle to get back together and for Spook to return to the band, Black Halo. Will Spook ever be able to get through the demons of his past and get his happily ever after?
This was a beautifully written poignant, and heart-wrenching story with a riveting storyline. The characters were engaging and relatable. My heart went out to Spook for all that he had been through. I so wanted Spook to be able to move forward in his life and have the happiness he deserves. This book will put you through the emotional wringer and have you reaching for the box of Kleenex. If you have triggers though, this book might not be for you as it discusses difficult subject matter. It contains references to depression, abuse, mental illness, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. It had angst, drama, friendship, trauma, heartache, passion, chemistry, and love.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-08-07 12:59:562023-08-16 13:39:01Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
I picked up this book on a recommendation from a friend. I did not know that the author intended for the book to be read in sequential order in the series. That being said, once I figured out the pieces and the parts that I was missing, I truly loved this book. I will be going back to read the rest of the Off the Record Series as well as the Black Halo world. However, I am not going to let the fact that I haven’t read the others color my review of this book. Spook is such an interesting character, he was well written and clearly had a past that left him hurt. The fact that he ups and runs when his secrets get out is relatable, I mean who doesn’t wish that they could just run away and start over. I love that he has made such an impact on the rest of the band that they are determined to help him, no matter what it takes. The author describes this book as angsty and that is exactly what this book is. This book depicts what I envision what a rock star’s life is like, especially when it comes to all the bedsharing. Spook is what brought me to this book and what really has drawn me to the Black Halo world. Xane had a lot of flaws, but his concern for his bandmate really was endearing to me. I truly enjoyed how far he went to get his friend and bandmate back. I definitely recommend this book, but I also recommend reading the rest of the Off the Record books first!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-08-05 20:11:582023-08-16 13:35:18Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Christine Baranek
I enjoyed reading this dark romance story. This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites yet. I enjoy this author’s writing skills as well as her attention to details that make her stories pop. I found this book to be well written and hard to put down. A story where enemies become lovers and the journey to get there is a little rough. This is a fast paced story where the characters are connectable, strong and had me coming back for more. I enjoyed watching their chemistry and growth throughout the book. They kept the story engaging and made it easy to read. I really enjoyed this story and what the characters brought to the story was great. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2023-08-05 15:39:002023-08-16 13:28:46Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Refrain is Book #3 in the Off the Record series by Madelynne Ellis. I didn’t realise when I grabbed a copy of this book that it was the third instalment of an on-going series following the same characters- so it isn’t really meant to be read as a standalone. I really am kicking myself for not realising sooner and made sure I read the previous books before starting this one- as I think if I had it would have made this an even better read (for me). So, having said that, I will definitely be going back to read the previous books before embarking on the upcoming fourth instalment. This is an angsty and emotional Rockstar romance with tension, drama, chemistry, challenges, friendship, family, dealing with inner demons, heartache, and sizzle. The series contains: -Off the Record: A Prelude (Series Prequel) -Reflex (Book #1) -Replay (Book #2) -Refrain (Book #3) -Revive (Book #4) -> releasing soon Happy Reading…..
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-08-02 23:33:552023-08-04 12:23:29Refrain (Off the Record Book #3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Angela Hayes
Rock guitarist Spook Mortensen has spent a decade hiding from his traumatic past. Now everyone knows his secrets, and their judgement leaves him broken inside and out. To avoid destroying everything that matters to him, Spook leaves both Black Halo and the woman he loves.
But there’s no running from the demons that lurk in the darkest corners of your soul, because they hitch a ride with you wherever you run.
There doesn’t seem to be a path out of the darkness, until the band’s irresistible, sex addicted, bad boy frontman swoops in determined to stage an intervention.
Xane’s prepared to do whatever it takes, no matter the sacrifice, to mend the hole in Spook’s heart and ensure he returns to where he belongs – Allegra Hutton’s arms and the Black Halo line-up. What neither of them expects is how intense the bond between them will become.
Refrain is an angsty, spicy, heart-wrenching rockstar romance with flawed characters, broken and damaged souls, intense friendships, all the feels, and a lot of bed sharing. It’s complicated… okay?
This is the third novel in the Off the Record series and forms part of the wider Black Halo world. These books are intended to be read in order.
Madelynne is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author. She wrote her first novel after discovering Black Lace Books in the 1990s. Having escaped the Hotel California, she dived into storytelling full-time. Her books are filled with bisexual bad boys who like to get down and dirty, and stories so angst-filled you know they’re going to hurt.
She lives in the UK near the Welsh border, where you can find her surrounded by books, drinking rapidly cooling decaf coffee, and listening to loud music. Her family still haven’t grasped that noise-cancelling headphones really do mean she can’t hear them.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/refrain.jpg1200757itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-08-01 00:04:322023-08-15 17:40:31Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis
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