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The Downfall of Us #1
The End of Me
An emotional, angsty, tearjerker by USA Today Bestselling Author Claudia Burgoa.
The End of Me is the first book of The Downfall of Us duet. An angst-filled romance about broken hearts, loss, and hope.
The End of Me is the first book of The Downfall of Us duet. An angst-filled romance about broken hearts, loss, and hope.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2023
About the author
Claudia Y. Burgoa
109 books6,179 followersClaudia is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author.
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.
Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.
Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
April 1, 2023
"We can hold onto each other until you're ready to let me go. "
One minute I was crying - the next I was mad as a hornet - flip the page - and I was releasing the breath I did not even realize I was holding only to turn a few pages and start the process again
I am emotionally exhausted - But it was sooooo worth it
Seriously the best book of 2023 to date!!
A lot of the events that occur here interlink with the other couples in this series - so spoilers from this read are probable if you haven't read the previous releases. Though they are all intertwined so you always get a little preview as you go
Now back to the heart-twisting, mind-bending, soul-sucking, hope-inducing story that left me needing a drink and therapy - I'm not kidding
Archer is gone
Piper is not truly living
Him is having multiple identity crises
Finn is ... I'm not sure what is actually up with him
Deck is stuck in the middle of all of them
And the Fates?
They are having a laugh as they bump the above-mentioneds destinies against one another. Each time barely grazing one past the other. Just little moments to throw them off their game. To leave them with that feeling of Deja Vu. Enough to cause a pause but not enough for them to put the pieces together
Until it's too late
I am actually a bit terrified to open book two. What if Finn's new choices can't be undone? What if Piper can't recover from the attack and the following events (no spoilers lol)? How in the world is Deck going to keep himself from removing Archer's life force?
I am going in -
Therapy recommendations please ;)
One minute I was crying - the next I was mad as a hornet - flip the page - and I was releasing the breath I did not even realize I was holding only to turn a few pages and start the process again
I am emotionally exhausted - But it was sooooo worth it
Seriously the best book of 2023 to date!!
A lot of the events that occur here interlink with the other couples in this series - so spoilers from this read are probable if you haven't read the previous releases. Though they are all intertwined so you always get a little preview as you go
Now back to the heart-twisting, mind-bending, soul-sucking, hope-inducing story that left me needing a drink and therapy - I'm not kidding
Archer is gone
Piper is not truly living
Him is having multiple identity crises
Finn is ... I'm not sure what is actually up with him
Deck is stuck in the middle of all of them
And the Fates?
They are having a laugh as they bump the above-mentioneds destinies against one another. Each time barely grazing one past the other. Just little moments to throw them off their game. To leave them with that feeling of Deja Vu. Enough to cause a pause but not enough for them to put the pieces together
Until it's too late
I am actually a bit terrified to open book two. What if Finn's new choices can't be undone? What if Piper can't recover from the attack and the following events (no spoilers lol)? How in the world is Deck going to keep himself from removing Archer's life force?
I am going in -
Therapy recommendations please ;)
March 28, 2023
This book wrecked me and left me in a mess, but in a good way. I was so looking forward to Piper’s story from the moment I knew what has happened to her in Seth’s book. But I was also kind of dreading it because I just knew Claudia was going to break my heart.
But I didn’t anticipate how she would actually break my heart. She made the story even more complicated than I thought it would already be, and I love it that she brings in another love interest for Piper.
But Piper firmly believes that Archer is still alive, and that he will come back to her, so she just doesn’t have it in her to move on.
When I started this book, after the first chapter, my first thought was ‘I’m not going to make it through without some tears’, and I was right. I felt every emotion Piper was feeling, those letters were so beautiful and devastating.
And Derek, he wants her, but he knows she won’t let Archer go. It was hard, on one side I was cheering him on ‘don’t give her up’, but I didn’t want her to give up on Archer either, so again, I was torn in two.
And now we have to wait a few weeks for the next book, which I can’t wait for, but I have a feeling this duet will be my favorite from Claudia’s books.
But I didn’t anticipate how she would actually break my heart. She made the story even more complicated than I thought it would already be, and I love it that she brings in another love interest for Piper.
But Piper firmly believes that Archer is still alive, and that he will come back to her, so she just doesn’t have it in her to move on.
When I started this book, after the first chapter, my first thought was ‘I’m not going to make it through without some tears’, and I was right. I felt every emotion Piper was feeling, those letters were so beautiful and devastating.
And Derek, he wants her, but he knows she won’t let Archer go. It was hard, on one side I was cheering him on ‘don’t give her up’, but I didn’t want her to give up on Archer either, so again, I was torn in two.
And now we have to wait a few weeks for the next book, which I can’t wait for, but I have a feeling this duet will be my favorite from Claudia’s books.
April 11, 2023
The End of Me was such an emotional, angst page turner. My heart broke for Piper and I could feel all of her emotions deep within my soul.
This book was a rollercoaster. Actually that's an understatement this book was a whirlwind of heart wrenching emotion where each page had me on the edge of my seat with bated breath.
Claudia Burgoa really took me for a ride during The End of Me and while I want to know what is in store for Piper in the next book I'm terrified that it will be more gut wrenching and devastating than this one was!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was a rollercoaster. Actually that's an understatement this book was a whirlwind of heart wrenching emotion where each page had me on the edge of my seat with bated breath.
Claudia Burgoa really took me for a ride during The End of Me and while I want to know what is in store for Piper in the next book I'm terrified that it will be more gut wrenching and devastating than this one was!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 28, 2023
If you’ve read anything in this series at all then you know this is the story we've all been waiting for. And while we'll have to wait a short time for the conclusion, this first half is nothing short of magical. Devastating and heartbreaking, but magical.
Archer St. James works for The Organization and never comes home after a mission. Along with his family and extended family, he leaves behind his fiancée, Piper. Through Archer's advance planning, from letters and videos he leaves for Piper, we learn about their first meeting, their growing up together, and their falling in love. It's a precious and sweet love of a lifetime.
Everyone in her family tells Piper she needs to move on, but she's convinced Asher is still alive. It's been years, and she still holds out hope. It's not until Derek Farrow enters her life that her heart begins to beat again. But how can she let herself fall for another man when she knows in her soul that Asher is still alive?
Although this duet likely stands alone, you'll be better off if you follow along with the series. There are many peripheral characters that you'll understand better if you’ve gotten to know them in the previous books. But if, like me, you’re a CYB junkie you'll want to dive into this one ASAP and not miss a second of this wild, emotional, angsty read.
Archer St. James works for The Organization and never comes home after a mission. Along with his family and extended family, he leaves behind his fiancée, Piper. Through Archer's advance planning, from letters and videos he leaves for Piper, we learn about their first meeting, their growing up together, and their falling in love. It's a precious and sweet love of a lifetime.
Everyone in her family tells Piper she needs to move on, but she's convinced Asher is still alive. It's been years, and she still holds out hope. It's not until Derek Farrow enters her life that her heart begins to beat again. But how can she let herself fall for another man when she knows in her soul that Asher is still alive?
Although this duet likely stands alone, you'll be better off if you follow along with the series. There are many peripheral characters that you'll understand better if you’ve gotten to know them in the previous books. But if, like me, you’re a CYB junkie you'll want to dive into this one ASAP and not miss a second of this wild, emotional, angsty read.
March 31, 2023
After I read the last duet where pieces of this book was announced I was mentally preparing myself to start reading this book. I'm not sure if it was enough. When I started it I had to put it down two times before I could get past chapter 6.
But after I pushed past that chapter, everything changed. I couldn't put this book down. The grief, pain, hope all mixed in this first book was so powerful. It had a hold on me and heart until the very end. I'm not sure who to love or hate at this point. I kinda wish Piper would move on, especially since I know how HE is treating her after he rescues her. Derek will forever have a special place. That man deserves the best and I'm not sure I can take what's coming next for these three.
Hopefully the resentment and pain will be replaced with love, so I can sleep easier.
***Review copy requested and reviewed in behalf of OMGReads Blog***
But after I pushed past that chapter, everything changed. I couldn't put this book down. The grief, pain, hope all mixed in this first book was so powerful. It had a hold on me and heart until the very end. I'm not sure who to love or hate at this point. I kinda wish Piper would move on, especially since I know how HE is treating her after he rescues her. Derek will forever have a special place. That man deserves the best and I'm not sure I can take what's coming next for these three.
Hopefully the resentment and pain will be replaced with love, so I can sleep easier.
***Review copy requested and reviewed in behalf of OMGReads Blog***
March 26, 2023
The first thing I have to say is I love Claudia. The first few pages had me doing an ugly cry, then rolling with laughter. It also explains how close to each other some of these characters became in the beginning.
My second is a complaint that we need family trees to be able to keep up with all these characters and families.
I love Derek, Piper, and Archer. I am starting to dislike Finn immensely. The cliffhanger ending is terrible but thankfully we don't have to wait long for the second book.
My second is a complaint that we need family trees to be able to keep up with all these characters and families.
I love Derek, Piper, and Archer. I am starting to dislike Finn immensely. The cliffhanger ending is terrible but thankfully we don't have to wait long for the second book.
March 4, 2023
Underdeveloped but over thought at the same time
I received this book from B3 in exchange for an honest review and that's unfortunately what I'm going to deliver. This review will probably be a jumbled mess, but it'll match the book, so I guess that's the theme for today.
This book did nothing for me, which sucks sooo bad because it had amazing potential. I kept waiting to get invested. I went back and reread the blurb to see if I was missing something. The seven years pass in no time because, although every new chapter has a date, it means nothing. There was no real concept of time, other than us being told how long had passed.
This story reads like I'm snooping through someone's diary rather than being immersed in the character's world.
Right off the bat, there were too many characters with no real depth behind them. It took more than half the book for us to learn Piper's parents were in a throuple....like come on. We'd already met them, had multiple scenes with them and it was confusing until I pieced it together myself only for everything to be explained later.
There was no emotion, nothing binding me to the characters. There were brief hints of goodness between Derek and Piper, but they got glossed over. All the background family stuff was unnecessary because 1) we still hadn't even really gotten to know any of the three MCs and 2) we didn't get to experience anything that went on with these characters. D's sister went to jail....like WHAT?? That could've been something. Piper left to help care for family that had a baby?? She went to meet Zach's fiancee, then she dies?? WTF to the ultimate degree.
Maybe I'm missing something. Maybe this wasn't a book you jump in to without having read others by the author. To me, with all the other characters, that is what it felt like, a continuation of a story I had no clue about. All the characters felt both underdeveloped but over thought out at the same time.
Telling vs showing is what I kept coming back to. I knew I had to finish this book to complete my end of the ARC bargain, but this will be my last from this author. With other reviews I saw, I may be in the minority here, but I can live with that. I need a fully immersive story that packs loads of emotion, passion, and intrigue and this just did not deliver.
I will say I appreciate the length because had it been longer, I would not have finished it.
I received this book from B3 in exchange for an honest review and that's unfortunately what I'm going to deliver. This review will probably be a jumbled mess, but it'll match the book, so I guess that's the theme for today.
This book did nothing for me, which sucks sooo bad because it had amazing potential. I kept waiting to get invested. I went back and reread the blurb to see if I was missing something. The seven years pass in no time because, although every new chapter has a date, it means nothing. There was no real concept of time, other than us being told how long had passed.
This story reads like I'm snooping through someone's diary rather than being immersed in the character's world.
Right off the bat, there were too many characters with no real depth behind them. It took more than half the book for us to learn Piper's parents were in a throuple....like come on. We'd already met them, had multiple scenes with them and it was confusing until I pieced it together myself only for everything to be explained later.
There was no emotion, nothing binding me to the characters. There were brief hints of goodness between Derek and Piper, but they got glossed over. All the background family stuff was unnecessary because 1) we still hadn't even really gotten to know any of the three MCs and 2) we didn't get to experience anything that went on with these characters. D's sister went to jail....like WHAT?? That could've been something. Piper left to help care for family that had a baby?? She went to meet Zach's fiancee, then she dies?? WTF to the ultimate degree.
Maybe I'm missing something. Maybe this wasn't a book you jump in to without having read others by the author. To me, with all the other characters, that is what it felt like, a continuation of a story I had no clue about. All the characters felt both underdeveloped but over thought out at the same time.
Telling vs showing is what I kept coming back to. I knew I had to finish this book to complete my end of the ARC bargain, but this will be my last from this author. With other reviews I saw, I may be in the minority here, but I can live with that. I need a fully immersive story that packs loads of emotion, passion, and intrigue and this just did not deliver.
I will say I appreciate the length because had it been longer, I would not have finished it.
February 5, 2023
Well I hope everyone is ready for an ugly cry fest because The End Of Me (The Downfall Of Us #1) isn’t for the faint or sensitive heart and it’s one hell of a tearjerker and heartbreaker. I seriously don’t know what to do with my life after reading this book because I thought this was going to be the end of my damn heart. I love it when Claudia Burgoa writes M/F/M books because she’s one of the few authors that gets it right every single time.
I was deeply invested and consumed by this heart wrenching, angst filled and emotional storyline involving three incredible characters. Finn, Derek and Piper go through a lot individually, yet their connections are powerful and intertwined in more ways than one. Each one of them have more in common than they know considering they’ve suffered heartache, loss, tragedy and unbearable pain. And they’ve also experienced love.
The End Of Me is exactly why I’m always willing to put up with Claudia Burgoa’s emotional torture as it has a creative and well written storyline and its depth coupled with the emotional elements will leave you absolutely breathless and devastated. And I’m not going to lie, the cliffhanger is quite a doozy. I already know that When Forever Finds Us is going to slay me.
I was deeply invested and consumed by this heart wrenching, angst filled and emotional storyline involving three incredible characters. Finn, Derek and Piper go through a lot individually, yet their connections are powerful and intertwined in more ways than one. Each one of them have more in common than they know considering they’ve suffered heartache, loss, tragedy and unbearable pain. And they’ve also experienced love.
The End Of Me is exactly why I’m always willing to put up with Claudia Burgoa’s emotional torture as it has a creative and well written storyline and its depth coupled with the emotional elements will leave you absolutely breathless and devastated. And I’m not going to lie, the cliffhanger is quite a doozy. I already know that When Forever Finds Us is going to slay me.
May 1, 2023
Piper and Archer have known that they were soulmates from the time that they were children and had their whole life planned out until Archer disappears. Piper is the only one that believes he is still alive as she can not only feel him but his emotions as well. She isn’t prepared to move on, but Derek slowly breaks through the walls she has built around herself.
Derek is a complex character as he isn’t close to his family and has been hurt in the past. When he takes an assignment helping the son of a dangerous cartel his life will never be the same.
Finn finds himself in an untenable situation where he doesn’t remember his past which has made him cautious and very private. Derek is there when he needs someone the most but there is also a woman in his dreams that he doesn’t remember and can’t forget.
The narrators are a perfect choice as this story is filled with so much angst and so much emotion and have you feeling for the plight of all three characters and leave you wanting more of them and their story.
Derek is a complex character as he isn’t close to his family and has been hurt in the past. When he takes an assignment helping the son of a dangerous cartel his life will never be the same.
Finn finds himself in an untenable situation where he doesn’t remember his past which has made him cautious and very private. Derek is there when he needs someone the most but there is also a woman in his dreams that he doesn’t remember and can’t forget.
The narrators are a perfect choice as this story is filled with so much angst and so much emotion and have you feeling for the plight of all three characters and leave you wanting more of them and their story.
April 3, 2023
Love these characters! Been waiting for this book! Hard to review without giving anything away. Piper has been waiting for the love of her life to return from a mission. piper insists he’s still alive even years later and refuses to give up hope. Meanwhile a physical therapist she works with enters her life and they grow quite close. This book had me feeling every feeling there is, happy, sad, scared, lonely, tired, frightened. Beautifully written with a cliffhanger full of hope!!!
April 24, 2023
7 years has passed, love,lost and hope remains. This book is so angsty but with a promise of a future. Soulmates from beginning to end, an eternal love.
Ghost pains prevail. An amazing read and so well written, I found myself glued to each page. Looking for that HEA until the end. This is Book 1 of The Downfall of Us Duet and the reader will want more!
Ghost pains prevail. An amazing read and so well written, I found myself glued to each page. Looking for that HEA until the end. This is Book 1 of The Downfall of Us Duet and the reader will want more!
April 9, 2023
I was not prepared for Pipers story and I can’t wait to get the second part as soon as possible! Wow just wow I loved it!!!
April 9, 2023
Part 1 of a spellbinding chronicle of three unique individuals and their journey to love
Get a box of tissues before you begin reading. “Emotional, angsty, tear-jerker” is an understatement! When I read the letters Archer sent to Piper, I thought I was going to choke on my tears. I still tear up when I remember…
Piper’s Uncle Mason runs The Organization which is a private intelligence and security agency. They do jobs that the government is constrained from doing. Archer St. James is one of their operatives. Arch and Seth were sent on a dangerous assignment from which Seth returned but Archer did not. Everyone believes he is dead except for Piper who still feels his heartbeat. They are roughly 23yo when this saga begins but they have known one another since preschool for geniuses at four and three years old and have loved for that long. They are soulmates. When Piper is presented with “The Box” of letters and memorabilia selected by Arch to help her grieve and move on, you will know why you needed those tissues.
On the other side of the world Derek as a physical and occupational therapist takes on an assignment for a dangerous cartel to help the leader’s “son” to recuperate. Derek senses something is off so he prepares “Travis” for his potential escape. During this story, you will see how three unique people are searching for their other half. Or could it be other third?
Oh. My. Word. This is a thriller of the highest order. Wonderful storytelling and beautifully written. The ending is seven years in the making. I was spellbound. Be aware: there were so many characters at the start that I almost quit, but Ms. Burgoa took such pains to write believable storylines for each that before long, I felt like I knew them and how they fit into the fabric of the story. I was so agitated once I finished the book, I had to take a little time to sit down to write my review. This is a MUST read if you like suspenseful, passionate, and quite remarkable stories. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews. I cannot wait to read the conclusion in the next book. This one deserves ten stars!
Get a box of tissues before you begin reading. “Emotional, angsty, tear-jerker” is an understatement! When I read the letters Archer sent to Piper, I thought I was going to choke on my tears. I still tear up when I remember…
Piper’s Uncle Mason runs The Organization which is a private intelligence and security agency. They do jobs that the government is constrained from doing. Archer St. James is one of their operatives. Arch and Seth were sent on a dangerous assignment from which Seth returned but Archer did not. Everyone believes he is dead except for Piper who still feels his heartbeat. They are roughly 23yo when this saga begins but they have known one another since preschool for geniuses at four and three years old and have loved for that long. They are soulmates. When Piper is presented with “The Box” of letters and memorabilia selected by Arch to help her grieve and move on, you will know why you needed those tissues.
On the other side of the world Derek as a physical and occupational therapist takes on an assignment for a dangerous cartel to help the leader’s “son” to recuperate. Derek senses something is off so he prepares “Travis” for his potential escape. During this story, you will see how three unique people are searching for their other half. Or could it be other third?
Oh. My. Word. This is a thriller of the highest order. Wonderful storytelling and beautifully written. The ending is seven years in the making. I was spellbound. Be aware: there were so many characters at the start that I almost quit, but Ms. Burgoa took such pains to write believable storylines for each that before long, I felt like I knew them and how they fit into the fabric of the story. I was so agitated once I finished the book, I had to take a little time to sit down to write my review. This is a MUST read if you like suspenseful, passionate, and quite remarkable stories. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews. I cannot wait to read the conclusion in the next book. This one deserves ten stars!
April 30, 2023
Archer St. James was a person I have heard about in several books; how he went missing in a mission that went wrong and has since been presumed dead. But seven years later, Piper still holds on to the fact that she can feel his heart beating, so she knows he's alive. This story starts with the events that caused Archer's disappearance, and we see what a toll it has played on Piper's heart, especially as she goes through the letters and videos that he left for her in the event he was killed on a mission.
This isn't an easy time for Piper, but she does everything Archer sets out for her in each of his letters, which includes getting help at the practice, which is how she meets Derick. D and Piper have great chemistry, and even though she feels the pull, there is no way she will betray the man she knows is still alive.
Continue reading my review here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewTEoM
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Listeners Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
**I also purchased a kindle copy
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
This isn't an easy time for Piper, but she does everything Archer sets out for her in each of his letters, which includes getting help at the practice, which is how she meets Derick. D and Piper have great chemistry, and even though she feels the pull, there is no way she will betray the man she knows is still alive.
Continue reading my review here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewTEoM
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Listeners Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**I also purchased a kindle copy
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
April 22, 2023
The End of Me: A Decker Family Novel (The Downfall of Us Book 1)
Piper is still feeling Archer, her best friend from kindergarten and the love of her life. The group came back from their mission. They were trying to wipe out the drug dealers in South America. As things when bad during the mission, Archer was never found. Piper believes he is still life. She can feel him. She goes on, they search for him with no luck. The Z's find him and he doesn't know who he is, so the leader makes him in and tries to help him, he hired a therapist named Derek. Derek works with him, having to teach him how to a grown up from scratch. Archer has memory issues. Finally after a couple of years Derek decided to leave so Archers father per say won't be able to kill him since he is a leader of the cartel. Archer is Finn, he leaves to go on a mission and decides to run away. Piper continues to make her life to without Archer. There is a perfect bond between Finn : Archer and Piper. Finn doesn't understand why ? So much chemistry between Finn, Piper and Derek. No one knows anything until when Derek comes to thinking about his relationship between Piper and Finn. Who knows what will happen next.... Have to wait and read the next book in the series. This story was simply delicious how it was written. I enjoyed reading about this story of Archer and Piper.... Like it was a true story, so in depth. The author did a excellent job of writing their story. ENJOY
Piper is still feeling Archer, her best friend from kindergarten and the love of her life. The group came back from their mission. They were trying to wipe out the drug dealers in South America. As things when bad during the mission, Archer was never found. Piper believes he is still life. She can feel him. She goes on, they search for him with no luck. The Z's find him and he doesn't know who he is, so the leader makes him in and tries to help him, he hired a therapist named Derek. Derek works with him, having to teach him how to a grown up from scratch. Archer has memory issues. Finally after a couple of years Derek decided to leave so Archers father per say won't be able to kill him since he is a leader of the cartel. Archer is Finn, he leaves to go on a mission and decides to run away. Piper continues to make her life to without Archer. There is a perfect bond between Finn : Archer and Piper. Finn doesn't understand why ? So much chemistry between Finn, Piper and Derek. No one knows anything until when Derek comes to thinking about his relationship between Piper and Finn. Who knows what will happen next.... Have to wait and read the next book in the series. This story was simply delicious how it was written. I enjoyed reading about this story of Archer and Piper.... Like it was a true story, so in depth. The author did a excellent job of writing their story. ENJOY
August 6, 2023
I enjoyed this start to the duet, The Downfall of Us. Piper believed in Archer coming back to her, so she waited. I loved all the letters Archer left for her; they touched my heart. She actually stole my heart with her faith, loyalty, and love for Archer. Archer had undergone quite a journey and became someone else, Finnegan. His anger, anguish, and loyalty to his "dream girl" kept me rooting for a resolution. Enter Derek. He became a bridge between Piper and Archer/Finnegan, even though it was a while before they knew it. I am so looking forward to the conclusion to this duet to see how it turns out.
The narration by Jason Clarke, Maxine Mitchell, and Lance Greenfield, each with their distinct personas, gave this story more feeling, more depth, and had me wanting more.
This is my unsolicited review.
The narration by Jason Clarke, Maxine Mitchell, and Lance Greenfield, each with their distinct personas, gave this story more feeling, more depth, and had me wanting more.
This is my unsolicited review.
April 2, 2023
Almost Every Single Time! But come on…right from the start?
Ms. Burgoa has me tied in emotional knots!
I couldn't put this story down once started.
My husband kept asking me…"why are you reading that if all it does is make you cry!" LOL he just doesn't get it!
When an author can draw you in like that, and have you so invested in the characters, they've done their job, and man did Ms. Burgoa do hers!
Cannot wait for the next in the duet, but, I best run to the store for more tissues! I'm hoping for a happy ending though so maybe tears of joy!?!
Ms. Burgoa has me tied in emotional knots!
I couldn't put this story down once started.
My husband kept asking me…"why are you reading that if all it does is make you cry!" LOL he just doesn't get it!
When an author can draw you in like that, and have you so invested in the characters, they've done their job, and man did Ms. Burgoa do hers!
Cannot wait for the next in the duet, but, I best run to the store for more tissues! I'm hoping for a happy ending though so maybe tears of joy!?!
June 28, 2023
This is Piper, Derek and Asher/Finn’s story. It’s a complicated and messy love triangle. I found the first few chapters really hard to read as I couldn’t stop crying. Knowing what was going to happen, having already read some of the other books in this world.
There’s loads of emotions and heartache throughout this story. There’s more action in it and suspense as it finishes in a cliffhanger, my heart is still pounding in my chest from how it’s ended.
There’s loads of emotions and heartache throughout this story. There’s more action in it and suspense as it finishes in a cliffhanger, my heart is still pounding in my chest from how it’s ended.
July 23, 2023
super slow burn, annoying. but u still keep on reading.
It starts off slow. Very slow. Then it gets annoying. You want to shout at them, but at the same time you keep reading because you have to know the ending! Then u find out there’s another book!!! As much as I struggle with this book because it’s a super slow burn, I’ve order the next one. Even though it’s £5.99 which is over the budget I normally set.
It starts off slow. Very slow. Then it gets annoying. You want to shout at them, but at the same time you keep reading because you have to know the ending! Then u find out there’s another book!!! As much as I struggle with this book because it’s a super slow burn, I’ve order the next one. Even though it’s £5.99 which is over the budget I normally set.
April 4, 2023
The End of Me
This story is from the heart, it’s heartbreaking, enlightening and inspiring. Piper is truly mourning her loss, yet feels Archer in her heart, and most don’t believe her. Their story is so tragic that she can’t imagine moving on. This story will break your heart, yet keep your mind guessing about what happened, and what will happen. Such an awesome story.
This story is from the heart, it’s heartbreaking, enlightening and inspiring. Piper is truly mourning her loss, yet feels Archer in her heart, and most don’t believe her. Their story is so tragic that she can’t imagine moving on. This story will break your heart, yet keep your mind guessing about what happened, and what will happen. Such an awesome story.
May 24, 2023
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
OMG I absolutely loved this book. Finnegan, Decker and Piper's story just grabbed hold of me and won't let go. This emotional rollercoaster is off the charts. Everyone needs to read this ASAP. Can't wait to start book 2. Thank you for this totally amazing book.
OMG I absolutely loved this book. Finnegan, Decker and Piper's story just grabbed hold of me and won't let go. This emotional rollercoaster is off the charts. Everyone needs to read this ASAP. Can't wait to start book 2. Thank you for this totally amazing book.
June 1, 2023
Beware of Cliffhanger
I gave this book 3 stars because I was not aware it was a cliffhanger. Worse than that the second book is not available/not owned by Libby or Hoopla. The library itself does not own the second book. Trapped! I am retired and will not buy this second book.
I gave this book 3 stars because I was not aware it was a cliffhanger. Worse than that the second book is not available/not owned by Libby or Hoopla. The library itself does not own the second book. Trapped! I am retired and will not buy this second book.
June 30, 2023
Talk about a Slow Burn
This will have your heart skipping beats and wondering my life is. My heart hurts for every character in this book. I was not ready for the emotional warfare this book would inflict on me. Tear jerker for sure!
This will have your heart skipping beats and wondering my life is. My heart hurts for every character in this book. I was not ready for the emotional warfare this book would inflict on me. Tear jerker for sure!
August 22, 2023
A great story I could put down
This book is fantastic. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, wanting to read more. The thrill, suspense, love triangle, it is all wonderful. Can't wait for the next book!
This book is fantastic. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, wanting to read more. The thrill, suspense, love triangle, it is all wonderful. Can't wait for the next book!
April 12, 2023
Book One
If I realized this was going to turn into a thropple, I would not have read, and especially not purchased this. It’s a good read, but one I am really into.
If I realized this was going to turn into a thropple, I would not have read, and especially not purchased this. It’s a good read, but one I am really into.
September 22, 2023
Awesome read
Oooo! Drama, intrigue, mystery, suspense, passion, love are all included in this addicting story! Ms. Burgoa has once again knocked it out the park!
Oooo! Drama, intrigue, mystery, suspense, passion, love are all included in this addicting story! Ms. Burgoa has once again knocked it out the park!
April 19, 2023
I love all of this author's books. This book grabbed me by the throat and pulled me in. Piper is mentioned in another book by the same author. Piper has been grieving for the half of her soul, Archer. She believes him to be alive while all her family and friends are telling her to stop waiting for him. In this book we know that Archer is still alive but has been adopted by very wealthy man and his new name is Finn. Archer/Finn is married to Piper and she wears their wedding rings around her neck. While she uses music to work with children and adults a new man enters the scene. This man is Derek and he worked with Archer/Finn when he was taken by the drug lord in South America. Derek admits to Archer/Finn that he loves him and wants to stay with him but he cannot. Derek is the tie that binds both Archer/Finn and piper. Derek finds out the Archer/Finn is the one Piper is waiting for.
In chapter 69 we find out that Archer/Finn has a family. What the heck? Well he is married whether he knows or not. DNA will show that he is Archer and a divorce will have to in the works. While we all know Archer/Finn has amnesia he still feels close to Piper, and Piper can feel when he is around.
In the books about Seth and Teddy we know that Piper is going to go back into hiding when she finds this out. Who knows how she will react when she finally meets him face to face, or that he is the one she is suppose to help write a book. Archer/Finn flirts with her suggest they have sex together. Waiting for the next book to come out.
In chapter 69 we find out that Archer/Finn has a family. What the heck? Well he is married whether he knows or not. DNA will show that he is Archer and a divorce will have to in the works. While we all know Archer/Finn has amnesia he still feels close to Piper, and Piper can feel when he is around.
In the books about Seth and Teddy we know that Piper is going to go back into hiding when she finds this out. Who knows how she will react when she finally meets him face to face, or that he is the one she is suppose to help write a book. Archer/Finn flirts with her suggest they have sex together. Waiting for the next book to come out.
September 12, 2023
I absolutely loved The End of Me by Claudia Burgoa; the first book in her The Downfall of Us, it is an incredible love story. Claudia Burgoa continues to provide readers with incredible love stories filled with amazing characters. She continues to prove that she is an amazing storyteller. I love all the characters in The End of Me, they feel like family! The End of Me filled me with a rollercoaster of emotions, it was impossible to put it down, and I loved every moment on every page. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong females, loving families, and friends, who always support one another? I really enjoy how the book is told in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting the insight and feelings from the different characters. I love the lighter moments where I find myself smiling and laughing out loud. My favorite moments are the ones that pull at my heartstrings that cause me to sigh, as I read the heartbreaking moments. The End of Me is filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. It is filled with all those things that I have come to love and expect in Claudia Burgoa love story, and she did not disappoint, especially with the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. The End of Me is a love story between Piper Cooperson, musician, therapist, publisher, her missing and presumed dead husband Archer St. James/Finnegan Gil, author and security specialist, and Dr. Derek Yates Farrow, former Navy SEAL, who holds a doctorate in physical therapy and another in occupational therapy. Piper and Archer have been together since he was four and she was three, first as friends, then dated and eventually secretly married when Archer was twenty-one. Archer was on a mission for The Organization and is missing, and eventually presumed dead. Piper believes in her heart that Archer is still alive. I love that the book shows Piper’s grieving process and belief that he is alive, even though her family, Archer’s family, and their friends believe he is dead. Finn and Derek meet when Derek gets hired as Dr. Derek Doyle by Ricardo Zamudio to help his son, Travis, recover from his recent injuries. Derek does not believe that Travis is Zamudio’s son, but since he suffers from amnesia and does not remember anything from his past. As Derek works with Travis, he regains his strength, and mobility but not his memory. Derek privately trained Travis as a sniper. Derek develops feelings for Travis while they are working together. Derek fears for his life and fakes his death, eventually returning to New York and taking a job working for Piper as the director of physical and occupational therapy at her music therapy practice. Travis also fakes his death, and is adopted by Charles Gil, a renowned archeologist. I love how Derek shares Piper’s music with Travis to help him relax. Finn and Derek reconnect once Finn moves to New York and become partners in a security firm and train together. I love how all their lives intersect with each other, without any of them knowing their connection and how Finn realizes that Piper is the girl he dreams about, because he remembers the color of her eyes, when he sees her performing in a subway station. Finn does not know what his connection to her. Piper and Finn work with one another on a series of books that Finn is writing, but neither realize the real identity of the other. Derek falls in love with Piper but realizes that there is no place in her life for him if she believes that Archer is still alive. I love how Derek shares things with Finn and Piper that he has never shared with anyone before, I love that Piper discloses her real identity, Piper Bradley Cooperson Decker and that she is the daughter of a throuple which includes Matthew Decker. I love the box that Archer left for Piper if he was ever presumed dead and everything that box contained to help Piper move on. An unanticipated plot twist occurs that causes Piper to get injured and Finn to question who she is and the role she and her family played in the injuries that he suffered and his retrograde and dissociative amnesia. My favorite part is the cliffhanger ending and how the events were connected to the events in the Covert Affair duet. I love the characters and the family dynamic in The End of Me, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoyed all the interactions between Decker cousins and siblings, how they always have each other’s back, but especially their teasing that made me laugh. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? I cannot wait to read When Forever Finds Us, to read the conclusion of Piper, Finn, and Derek’s love story and hopefully their happily ever after. Highly recommend this incredible love story.
April 2, 2023
ARC kindly provided for the author in exchange for an honest review
After reading Love After Us and discovering that Claudia Y. Burgoa had made my wish come true, I expected something very different from this book BUT I loved the way in which the author chose to tell the story of Piper & Archer, and Piper, Finn & Derek, plus I was really surprised to read the direction these three characters took throughout the years: they broke my heart, they made me laugh, cry, fall in love with them, have a thousand doubts and especially a lot of fear for the outcome of their love story.
I think what I loved the most was Claudia taking me back in time to read first-row how the disappearance of Archer affected 's life through the years, and even though I cried a lot, I LOVED the way he tried to prepare and accompany Piper through her grief, how she maintains hope for Archer's return over time, but also how she feels like she loses her at times and everything collapses around her.
Also, I loved the way the story of Piper, Finn & Derek intertwined in unexpected ways, how Derek came into the lives of Finn & Piper, how he was the sweetest to both of them, especially her. And something that broke my heart even more was reading a Finn full of anger, wanting revenge on whoever hurt him and being so lost that he is not able to accept what he is really feeling.
❤️🩹Finn: 4.5/5
❤️🩹Piper: 5/5
❤️🩹Derek: 4.5/5
❤️🩹Plot: 5/5
❤️🩹Love Story: 5/5
❤️🩹Secondaru characters: 5/5
❤️🩹Universe: 5/5
❤️🩹Cover: 4/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Después de leer Love After Us y descubrir que Claudia Y. Burgoa había hecho realidad mi deseo, esperaba algo muy diferente de este libro PERO me encantó la manera en la que la autora eligió contar la historia de Piper & Asher, y de Piper, Finn & Derek, además de que me sorprendió muchísimo leer la dirección que estos tres personajes tomaron a lo largo de los años: me rompieron el corazón, me hicieron reír, llorar, enamorarme con ellos, tener mil dudas y especialmente mucho miedo por el desenlace de su historia de amor.
Creo que lo que más amé fue que Claudia me llevara al pasado para leer en primera fila la manera en la que la desaparición de Asher afecto la vida de Piper a lo largo de los años, y aunque lloré mucho, ME ENCANTÓ la manera en la que él intentó preparar y acompañar a Piper en su duelo, como ella mantiene la esperanza del regreso de Archer a lo largo del tiempo, pero también como siente que la pierde por momentos y todo se derrumba a su alrededor.
Además, me encantó la manera en la que la historia de Piper, Finn & Derek se entrelazo de manera inesperada, como Derek entró en las vidas de Finn & Piper, como fue el más dulce con ambos, especialmente con ella. Y algo que me rompió aún más el corazón fue leer a un Finn lleno de ira, queriendo vengarse de quien le hizo daño y estando tan perdido que no capaz de aceptar lo que realmente está sintiendo.
❤️🩹Finn: 4.5/5
❤️🩹Piper: 5/5
❤️🩹Derek: 4.5/5
❤️🩹Trama: 5/5
❤️🩹Historias de amor: 5/5
❤️🩹Personajes secundarios: 5/5
❤️🩹Universo: 5/5
❤️🩹Portada: 4/5
After reading Love After Us and discovering that Claudia Y. Burgoa had made my wish come true, I expected something very different from this book BUT I loved the way in which the author chose to tell the story of Piper & Archer, and Piper, Finn & Derek, plus I was really surprised to read the direction these three characters took throughout the years: they broke my heart, they made me laugh, cry, fall in love with them, have a thousand doubts and especially a lot of fear for the outcome of their love story.
I think what I loved the most was Claudia taking me back in time to read first-row how the disappearance of Archer affected 's life through the years, and even though I cried a lot, I LOVED the way he tried to prepare and accompany Piper through her grief, how she maintains hope for Archer's return over time, but also how she feels like she loses her at times and everything collapses around her.
Also, I loved the way the story of Piper, Finn & Derek intertwined in unexpected ways, how Derek came into the lives of Finn & Piper, how he was the sweetest to both of them, especially her. And something that broke my heart even more was reading a Finn full of anger, wanting revenge on whoever hurt him and being so lost that he is not able to accept what he is really feeling.
❤️🩹Finn: 4.5/5
❤️🩹Piper: 5/5
❤️🩹Derek: 4.5/5
❤️🩹Plot: 5/5
❤️🩹Love Story: 5/5
❤️🩹Secondaru characters: 5/5
❤️🩹Universe: 5/5
❤️🩹Cover: 4/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Después de leer Love After Us y descubrir que Claudia Y. Burgoa había hecho realidad mi deseo, esperaba algo muy diferente de este libro PERO me encantó la manera en la que la autora eligió contar la historia de Piper & Asher, y de Piper, Finn & Derek, además de que me sorprendió muchísimo leer la dirección que estos tres personajes tomaron a lo largo de los años: me rompieron el corazón, me hicieron reír, llorar, enamorarme con ellos, tener mil dudas y especialmente mucho miedo por el desenlace de su historia de amor.
Creo que lo que más amé fue que Claudia me llevara al pasado para leer en primera fila la manera en la que la desaparición de Asher afecto la vida de Piper a lo largo de los años, y aunque lloré mucho, ME ENCANTÓ la manera en la que él intentó preparar y acompañar a Piper en su duelo, como ella mantiene la esperanza del regreso de Archer a lo largo del tiempo, pero también como siente que la pierde por momentos y todo se derrumba a su alrededor.
Además, me encantó la manera en la que la historia de Piper, Finn & Derek se entrelazo de manera inesperada, como Derek entró en las vidas de Finn & Piper, como fue el más dulce con ambos, especialmente con ella. Y algo que me rompió aún más el corazón fue leer a un Finn lleno de ira, queriendo vengarse de quien le hizo daño y estando tan perdido que no capaz de aceptar lo que realmente está sintiendo.
❤️🩹Finn: 4.5/5
❤️🩹Piper: 5/5
❤️🩹Derek: 4.5/5
❤️🩹Trama: 5/5
❤️🩹Historias de amor: 5/5
❤️🩹Personajes secundarios: 5/5
❤️🩹Universo: 5/5
❤️🩹Portada: 4/5
April 18, 2023
The End of Me is an unputdownable story about three people who share an undeniable but cloaked connection. It's full of suspense, secrets, longing, heartache, and unconditional love. I have been so excited for Archer and Piper's story and Derek adds even more reasons to love this captivating and addicting story! Archer is missing after a failed mission. Piper never gives up hope that the love of her life is still alive, still feeling his soul in her heart. Derek is a physical therapist, and ex SEAL who comes into Pipers life, helping her to heal and after years, consider a new life. A man he helped heal physically after a tragic accident, and helped escape a life threatening situation, asks him to work with him in his new security company. Finn is still struggling with his amnesia. He is grateful for Derek, and excited about his new life, along with the woman who is helping him move forward, but has never met in person. They all have complicated feelings, but have fiercely guarded hearts from past experiences. When danger catches up to them, will they be able to survive before losing not only their lives, but their hearts as well? I loved all three of these characters so much, and the direction and journey their story took me on. The organic way each of their connections and relationships grew was beautiful and touching. Their interactions had me holding my breath as I was putting things together along with them, and wondering how this would all play out. The heart pounding ending was a nailbiter and I can't wait for what happens next in the second book of this duet, When Forever Finds Us!
Merged review:
The End of Me is an unputdownable story about three people who share an undeniable but cloaked connection. It's full of suspense, secrets, longing, heartache, and unconditional love. I have been so excited for Archer and Piper's story and Derek adds even more reasons to love this captivating and addicting story! Archer is missing after a failed mission. Piper never gives up hope that the love of her life is still alive, still feeling his soul in her heart. Derek is a physical therapist, and ex SEAL who comes into Pipers life, helping her to heal and after years, consider a new life. A man he helped heal physically after a tragic accident, and helped escape a life threatening situation, asks him to work with him in his new security company. Finn is still struggling with his amnesia. He is grateful for Derek, and excited about his new life, along with the woman who is helping him move forward, but has never met in person. They all have complicated feelings, but have fiercely guarded hearts from past experiences. When danger catches up to them, will they be able to survive before losing not only their lives, but their hearts as well? I loved all three of these characters so much, and the direction and journey their story took me on. The organic way each of their connections and relationships grew was beautiful and touching. Their interactions had me holding my breath as I was putting things together along with them, and wondering how this would all play out.
Jason Clarke, Maxine Mitchell, and Lance Greenfield narrate this captivating story beautifully. They nailed all the characters so completely, making me see, and understand them so clearly, and helping me to empathize with them as well. They made this story even more exciting, and I was completely consumed by this thrilling, passionate and addictive story!
The heart pounding ending was a nailbiter and I can't wait for what happens next in the second book of this duet, When Forever Finds Us!
Merged review:
The End of Me is an unputdownable story about three people who share an undeniable but cloaked connection. It's full of suspense, secrets, longing, heartache, and unconditional love. I have been so excited for Archer and Piper's story and Derek adds even more reasons to love this captivating and addicting story! Archer is missing after a failed mission. Piper never gives up hope that the love of her life is still alive, still feeling his soul in her heart. Derek is a physical therapist, and ex SEAL who comes into Pipers life, helping her to heal and after years, consider a new life. A man he helped heal physically after a tragic accident, and helped escape a life threatening situation, asks him to work with him in his new security company. Finn is still struggling with his amnesia. He is grateful for Derek, and excited about his new life, along with the woman who is helping him move forward, but has never met in person. They all have complicated feelings, but have fiercely guarded hearts from past experiences. When danger catches up to them, will they be able to survive before losing not only their lives, but their hearts as well? I loved all three of these characters so much, and the direction and journey their story took me on. The organic way each of their connections and relationships grew was beautiful and touching. Their interactions had me holding my breath as I was putting things together along with them, and wondering how this would all play out.
Jason Clarke, Maxine Mitchell, and Lance Greenfield narrate this captivating story beautifully. They nailed all the characters so completely, making me see, and understand them so clearly, and helping me to empathize with them as well. They made this story even more exciting, and I was completely consumed by this thrilling, passionate and addictive story!
The heart pounding ending was a nailbiter and I can't wait for what happens next in the second book of this duet, When Forever Finds Us!
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