Stitches and Sepsis

Vivian Chastain, Book 2

By: Liz Faraim

Narrated by: Nastasia Marquez

Adrenaline-addicted veteran Vivian Chastain confronts the man who has been following her for days, only to find he has a message of dire consequence for her. Spurred into action by his news, she barrels head-on into a tumultuous and violent series of events.

Stoic and stubborn as always, Vivian lands in the hospital, fighting for her life. During Vivian’s lengthy recovery, her partner is released from jail and the two reconnect, stoking up the flames of their toxic union all while Vivian dives into a blossoming relationship with a new love interest who offers fulfillment and love, if only Vivian can figure out how to allow it all in.

Vivian learns that the coast is not clear as former threats return and continue to endanger her. While she cannot rest easy, friends, her work crew, and customers at the nightclub where she tends bar provide her with much-needed fun, comradery, and support.

Vivian wrestles with her temper, her penchant for physical violence, and her overwhelming emotional baggage. Struggles from within and without threaten her existence, and in the moment when death is just a breath away, Vivian’s brother shows up and changes everything.

©2021 Elizabeth Loud (P)2023 Elizabeth Loud

Not to be ignored

What a story. I was unsure when I first started listening, but surely, and slowly, it pulled me in. The tempo of the book is sure and steady, never overwhelming me with too much action, but flows effortlessly between scenes that you reach the end much too quickly.

the relationships are there, not too in your face, and interrupting the action, but at the right amount, and treated with respect.

Will definitely be listening more of her works.

Excellent Book

I really enjoyed this book. The story was well told and engaging. So many times books follow a formula and it begins to feel like you know exactly what's going to happen before the words play out on the page. I did not have that feeling with this book. The MC was so real to me - a lovely imperfect human. I have never read a book that included a Poly character either so that was refreshing and interesting. I also enjoyed the narration!

Great listen

This is my first book by this author and I will definitely find more.
The story is multilayered, difficult at times due to traumatic events, and real. The author does an good job of unpacking the characters and their life experiences. Their description of poly dynamics is informative and clear.
Vivian is a character that is easy to champion and the storyline leaves me constantly wanting to know more.
Narration is spot on and she does a good job differentiating character voices.

Unique

A great addition to the first book in the series. I love the unique way it is put together with sounds outside of just narrating. Fantastic story. Easy to listen too was worried I’d get lost because a lot happens but it was very easy to follow along. Great narration.

Well written engaging continuation

Gives an excellent view into the lives of veterans who are coping with ptsd while building relationships and becoming whole. Polyamorous relationships and differing expectations are portrayed as difficult and complex issues such as human trafficking, spousal abuse, and substance abuse are addressed. Highly recommended.

Solid storyline

I listened to this book months ago but I didn't do this review right away. First it took me a while to finish because of the violence. I just had to take breaks but that was not a bad thing. I really liked the story line and I wanted to finish the book. It never occurred to me to not finish it. I actually listened to it twice!
I didn't read the first book in the series but it never felt like I was missing important information to understanding the story. The only thing I really didn't like was the musical transitions or the background noise. I usually listen to books while I am working and that back ground noise in my headphones was very distracting.
This was my first time listening to the author but I have put her on my to listen to list.