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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Michelle Collier

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Heather Bass

lRefrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have read a few books by this author and she always blows my mind on how she writes. This is the third book of the very addictive series Off the Record. You have to read these in order or you will get lost. I love a good rocker romance but this story exceeded all my expectations. I could not put this book down until the end. It only took me a few hours to devour this amazing book.

Spook Mortensen is the guitarist of the amazing rock group Black Halo. He had a horrible past which he thought he hid very well from. Spook is very upset when his secret comes out. He does the one thing to protect himself is run. Spook leaves his band and girl all behind him. Now he is getting by life on his own until his playboy band mate Xane comes to get him back. Will Spook get rid of all his demons and come back or is the past too hard to let go?
Review by @heatherbass

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Ashley Sugar

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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!

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Michelle Austin

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

Reviewed by @mab54615
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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Shannen Kern

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Shannen Kern

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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!

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Barbara Bohls

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW, is all I can say. This book took me through it. It has drama, trauma, romance, steam, friendships, sizzle, and a great plot. The inner turmoil that the main character has, is the center for the book. How he reacts to everything being brought to light about his past and the way he deals with it, is what keeps you turning pages. I couldn’t put the book down. It is the 3 book in the series and there is even a prequel to this series. It would be helpful to read the other books first if you really want an understanding of everything. However, it is not necessarily needed and you will find yourself wanting to read the other books in the series after this if you haven’t already. The books builds and builds and you will get lost in the feelings of the characters. My mood even shifted while reading this book. So be advised that you might need to take a time out from other people while reading this. You won’t want to be disturbed. I can’t give this book high enough praises by the way it handled certain situations and the feelings that it provokes within you. You won’t be disappointed with this book.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Jules Herbert

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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!

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Kerry Carr

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh

<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.
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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Elisha Johnson

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

Review by @elishajohnson

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Christine Baranek

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Refrain
By: Madelynne Ellis

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!

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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.

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Review by @bjwagner

Refrain (Off the Record Book #3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Angela Hayes

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

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…..

Thank you, Madelynne Ellis!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Jennifer Ramos

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ellis has such mannerisms in making her readers empathize with her characters and their experiences. This is actually my first book that I’ve read from this series and even though I’m sure reading the previous books may have helped bring a full circle insight of the characters, this book does a great job of detailing some of the past experiences. Very intense at times and focused on mental health as Spook deals with his past “demons” and sinks into a deep depression while hiding out. Xane, a determined band mate and willing to help Spook through his endeavors and he also has Alle, his girlfriend, who has the fiercest heart and devotion towards him. Moments of steamy spice as well if you’re into that.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Jenni Bishop, August 2023

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Refrain is the fourth heart wrenching book in the Off the Record romance series. It is a story that is full of angst and sexy but broken rockstars. Who doesn’t love a good rock and roll world story.
I realised part way through that it was the fourth book so stopped reading this one and went back and read from the first book Off the Record: A Prelude. I am glad I did because you get a rounded picture of our tortured soul MC.
It is hot and racy, with sizzling chemistry. With loss, secrets, lies, mistakes, wants, needs, judgement, pain, suffering, lost hope, self-loathing.
The characters are flawed warts and all some you will like, and others could be better.
Spook’s journey has been a tough one and Madelynne has certainly put him through his paces and us through the wringer. It pulled at my heartstrings.
The intensity of the story with traumatic pasts, demons, mental health problems and damaged souls put me on an emotional roller-coaster ride hitting me in all the feels. Tissues are a must.
I am not going to say any more because you really have to read this series to not only grasp the intensity, pain and torment of the MC but Madelynne’s fabulous writing and pulling it together so beautifully.
I can not wait to read the grand finale Revive.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Kerry Baker

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an emotional and captivating story this book turned out to be. The main character has been through so much. He is broken and flawed and yet so relatable. My heart cried out for him and I wanted so badly for him to accept he help he clearly needed. I think I connected with him more because his mental health issues were clear and open, not something that was brushed aside and glossed over.
This author is pretty new to me and I am enjoying discovering their work. The quality of writing is fantastic and this book is the perfect example. If all her books are like this, I cannot wait to read more of what is on offer.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Shelly Kittell

Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow! This is an emotional ride. I came into the series at this point. I will need to go back and read the previous books. The book starts pretty intense and I was drawn right in. The writing is such that you feel like you are right their in the action. The topic is deep and might be a tw so please read the author’s website. I found the story to be interesting and very intriguing. It is a good read.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis

-ˏˋ♥̩͙♥̩̩̥͙♥̩̥̩ ⑅ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ⑅ ♥̩̥̩♥̩̩̥͙♥̩͙ˊˎ
Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis
Genre – LGBTQ Romance
Page Count – 380

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.

~ AMAZON ~ APPLE BOOKS ~ KOBO ~ BARNES & NOBLE ~ SMASHWORDS ~

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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.

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Regaining Integrity (Code of Honor Book 4) by Brooke May – Review by Shelly Kittell

Regaining IntegrityRegaining Integrity by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These two had me chuckling at the flirting, the sparks and the chemistry. He wants her. She wants him, but doesn’t. Ridge wants to have a crush on her. This is the sweetest romance and I still love the moments when Cera gets hers. A fun story where the tables turn, hearts shine and love is found. Characters are fantastic This is one of the best series out there in the romance genre. I love it when the author takes us back there. I can’t wait wait to return again. Take me back to Montana.A quick read that you will enjoy.

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