What’s Left of Me – Trilogy Book One
–H.N. DeFore Read 4/24/2025-4/24/2025
Joelle, Vinny, and Alastair were inseparable in high school, caught in a complicated love triangle until Alastair took on the persona of the Citrus Grove Slayer. Oh, and did I mention that Joelle was the final intended victim and the only one to survive?
“I didn’t do this for fame,” I snap, but I realize it’s a mistake right away. -Alastair
“Then why did you do it?” -FBI Agent Gabriel
Ah, the question with no answer. There are so many theories out there I’ve lost count, and I’ve never confirmed or denied anything about my motive for killing fifteen women. -Alastair
So, why did Alastair kill all those women? And more crucially, why did he plan to kill Joelle, the woman he professed to love?
The story centers on the former trio of Joelle (FMC), Vinny (MMC), and Alastair (MMC). Now going by Jo or Josephine, Jo and her husband Vinny own a club in Colorado. They return to Florida when copycat murders of past Citrus Grove Slayer resurface – Jo, after all, is the single survivor of the original killings. Forced to undergo intense FBI interrogations, they hope to uncover the motive behind the new attacks and get back to Colorado without having to face Alastair who residing, not by his choice of course, at Citrus Grove Penitentiary.
DeFore masterfully creates characters that resonate deeply, revealing their strengths, weaknesses, hopes, dreams, and fears. While I felt for every character—including the supporting characters – Jo struck a chord with me most. She’s so vividly written that I could almost see her standing in front of me, sharing her story. Jo’s journey of self-discovery as she grapples with past traumas is poignant, illustrating that healing and personal growth are attainable despite one’s history. Vinny’s unwavering support, rooted in love and protection, enhances the story, showcasing their vulnerabilities both as individuals and as a couple.
What’s Left of Me pulls readers in with its intense sense of urgency and quick pacing. It immerses you in the story, creating an emotional investment in Jo’s safety as she faces the distress of being back in Florida. The narrative flows seamlessly between chapters and scenes, maintaining a smooth rhythm throughout. DeFore has an extraordinary talent for captivating her audience, compelling readers to keep turning pages until they reach the end.
I must emphasize the importance of reading the trigger warnings if you’re sensitive to certain topics – these are listed in the front of the book before the prologue. While I didn’t find the book triggering despite my own experience with trauma, it’s worth noting that your experience may differ. The trigger warning list is thorough, and DeFore handles these darker themes with care; she’s sensitive to her readers while not shying away from detail when the scene demands intensity.
Did you think I would forget to mention the thrilling drive What’s Left of Me took us on through twists and turns? I had an inkling about part of the outcome from the beginning, and I can proudly say I was right. Yet, I was continuously surprised; just when I thought I had it all figured out, a new twist emerged. By the end, I was shocked to find I had reached the finale – cue cliffhanger! I can tell you this much, I am already anticipating the next installment in the trilogy!
DeFore connects with her readers on a rare emotional level in this dark romance with psychological thriller elements. She allows us to experience their pain, fear, past traumas, and paths to self-discovery while confronting taboo topics head-on. Though some content may be triggering, I found it to be a therapeutic journey for someone who has faced physical and mental trauma.
Thank you to H.N. DeFore for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader on What’s Left of Me. As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author, present or future, for my review.
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