Despite my aversion to cheating, I really enjoyed Nikan Rebuilt. This story was about forgiveness, growth and second chances. These characters went through so much, both individually and together, and it was heartwarming to see them come out of the struggles strong with their humanity in tact. It was brave of the heroine to give the H another chance after the cheating. I think the time they spent apart was definitely necessary to their path of reflection and healing that lead up to their second chance. What I loved the most, and is probably the most important aspect, is Nikan's background. He's half Native, and the story explored a bit about the history of the First Nations in Canada. Something that's not often taught (correctly), so it was eye-opening to learn more about what they went through and how it impacts their lives today.

Once again, Cole has written a swoon-worthy rockstar. I've loved Nikan and his story. This second-chance romance was sweet but challenging. Jenny had a lot of baggage, due to Nik and watching them move forward was enjoyable. I really can't wait to see where this series goes with its final installment. I'm really looking forward to Lennon's story.

Clearly I'm the odd one out with this book, so take it for what you will. I've read 4 other books by this author and loved those so I was surprised that I didn't even as much as like this one.

This book is clearly part of a series, which I think may be one of my issues. I did not read any other book in the series and I think that left me at an unfair advantage. There were many stories carried over from previous books in this one which lost me at times.

I made it through about 56% of the book and then I got bored. The story was the same chapter after chapter. Nikan is still in love with Jenny and has been since they met years ago. Jenny is still angry at Nikan for cheating on her. Page after page after page this is what the story seems to revolve around. It's an incredibly slow burn, one so slow that my interest was lost and I stopped reading.

Nikan Rebuilt is not just another rock ‘n roll romance. It’s so much better. It’s written better, the background is developed better, the story is better, and it’s just plain more interesting. The most surprising aspect of the novel was how Cole dealt with the racist elements. The issues were handled tactfully and with obvious respect. It piqued my interest in the First Nation issues in Canada.

I loved Nikan. Although he was going through a rough time, he wasn’t a complete a$$hole. He could be pushy to Jenny, but he was also sweet and gentle. I liked Jenny as well. She was completely relatable. And she was tough. I love a tough heroine.

If you’re looking for an escape from dreary January weather, dive into Nikan Rebuilt today.

I think that there are going to be some who are turned off by this book without giving it a chance just because it deals with cheating.  But they're SOOO going to miss out on what can happen when an awesome writer like Cole puts together a second chance love story!  Nikan and Jenny have been a connection waiting to happen again - he's never gotten over his feelings for her (and what he did to ruin it) and she ran away because she knew she couldn't stay strong if she saw him.  And she was right.  She makes him work for it but eventually the connection between them proves to be too great to ignore ... come on, it's a romance so you know that they've got to have a HEA somewhere in there!  It takes some doing but they do get there.  And it is surprisingly low on drama.  Instead we have realistic reactions, characters with depth and emotion, and a situation that you can understand and get behind.  

I'd braced myself for being put through the wringer again so I was a little grateful that Cole took it a bit easier on us here.  The unique family that the guys built together is still strongly at the forefront but they are all starting to work their way into individual happiness.  I think that is finally giving Nikan a chance to notice that he's not as content as he could be now that he's not expending so much energy keeping everyone else together.  It's hard for him to look after himself instead of the group (and for me because that love between them is so nice to see but it is also good that they are starting to heal as well).  Bumping into Jenny again, and finally having a chance to work through his biggest regret, couldn't come at more opportune time.  

I will admit that it was a little unexpected to have this story be so lacking in the  commotion department.  The rest of the Preload series has dealt with some pretty hard issues and the guys haven't been all that great at handling their pasts up to this point.  I guess from what Cole has shown us of Nikan, though, he does seem the one with his act together the most.  Being the oldest and the one that has taken on keeping everyone else together he had to or they would have all gone off the rails!  Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining.  I kinda enjoyed that we mostly only had to deal with the do-over on Nikan and Jenny's relationship without piling on a whole lot more.  (I have a feeling that Cole is saving that up for Lennon ... that one might just be the most heartbreaking yet, and she sure hasn't been easy on us in the past!) 

Nikan Rebuilt is gritty and real and packed full of emotions.  It's oh-so-satisfying to see these two figure things out!

Nikan Rebuilt by Scarlett Cole is book three in her Preload Series. Though part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone. Featuring Nikan Monture, guitarist for the metal band Preload, and the woman he left behind, Jenny McKade.

Lovers and, so much more, before Nikan and Preload went on tour, Jenny McKade has kept away from Nikan after his public betrayal on his first tour with the band. Her heart still broken, she is definitely not happy to see Nik again when she starts her temporary position at the group home Nik and his bandmates used to live in.

Nik is feeling lost and restless. He does not know who he is anymore and as his bandmates/brothers are now finding lives with their significant others, he can't help but want to find that too especially with the woman who always had his heart: Jenny.

However, the past is not easily forgotten. For either of them and the history follows Nikan and Jenny as they deal with learning who they are now, if they can be friends or more, and if they can learn to trust again.

I enjoy Ms. Cole's novel which pulled us into Nikan and Jenny's story with her detail and emotional conflict that each faced, not only with each other but with external issues like the band's future and Jenny's father. Add in additional stories amongst the boys in the group home under Jenny's temporary supervision, as well as returning characters from previous books, and we're provided a full and engaging story.

Overall, Nikan Rebuilt by Scarlett Cole is a well-written novel with characters that are rough, flawed, and completely worth the read to see their happy ending. I happily recommend.

(I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book I received for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my open and honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.)

3.5 “Second Chances” Stars

ARC via NetGalley

Thank you, Swerve!

I’ve been following this series from the very first book, so I was obviously excited to get my hands on Nikan’s story.

While I have to say Lennon’s book is the one I’m most anxious about, I had a good time reading Nikan Rebuilt. It was a little different than what I expected, and maybe lower on the suspense and angst vibe than the previous titles in the series, but it was a pleasant read.

Speaking of Lennon, I often felt he was the star of this book, despite it being about the love between Jenny and Nik. At times, it almost felt like this was a book meant to set things forward for Lennon. But that’s not a complaint, because he is one of the most intriguing members of the band.

Now, about Nik and Jenny. I had my doubts I’d like the romance because it’s centered in two major problematic plot points for me: cheating and second chances.

Cheating is something that normally ruins the book for me, as made clear by many of my reviews. And of all romance tropes, second chances is probably my least favorite. Still, Scarlett Cole managed to write these elements in a way that didn’t make me dislike the story.

Yes, let’s make it very clear from the start, Nik cheated on Jenny when they were young and in love. This book brings an explanation to his behavior. Was it satisfactory? Not really. Would any explanation ever be? Probably not. It wasn’t a horrible explanation, either, so I’ll give him that. It doesn’t hurt that he spent the better part of the story trying to show Jenny he had changed. Was I convinced? Not really. Was I swayed? Probably.

The two of them had chemistry, and I could understand why Jenny decided to forgive him. I could easily tell she loved him a lot, and he did his best showing her he loved her, too. I just don’t know if maybe she should’ve held on a bit longer. Maybe that would’ve helped with the forgiveness angle a bit. Or maybe not. But that’s mostly on me and my intolerance for cheating.

I did love the way Jenny and Nik found purpose working with foster kids and giving them a chance at life. They were both important in the roles they played in those kids’ lives and it certainly helped build a connection between reader and character.

So, while Nikan Rebuilt was not my favorite book from this series, I was happy to see how it moved the overall story forward, and it’s always a pleasure to see the members of Preload again.

5 emotionally beautiful stars!! This book was by far my favorite of the “Preload” series. This is a MUST read!!

This is book 3 in the Pre-load series. I am sure you can read as a stand alone but you will regret not reading them all. And if you are eventually going to read them all you must do in order!!



💔Nikan and Jenny’s story.....

Jenny~ I finally have my shot. My chance at running a home of my own. This is the job I have always wanted. Who needs a love life?!!! One man broke my heart many years ago and ruined me for everyone. Did I forget to mention he visits the home I will be temporarily running?!?! Uggg....


“Outside of us actually breaking up, this is the worst it’s ever going to be between us, right? As we try to make something from the pieces of us?”



Nikan~ The band is great, the brothers are doing great as well. Me?!? Well not so much. Something is missing and nothing is falling into place. Funny thing is the minute I lay eyes on one woman my whole world starts to right. Except can I get through my demons and prove to her I am not that boy she once knew....



💭My thoughts....


First off I am part Native American and I love my family history and learning of the culture so at the beginning of this book when I read this it made my day!!

“10% of my first-year royalties for this book will be donated to the Woodland Cultural Centre, formerly the Mohawk Institute Residential School.”~Scarlett Cole


This book had so many moments I wanted to cherish. I highlighted so much but I don’t want to ruin this beauty for anyone. Let me say I did not even realize all that Nikan was. He is so much more then the male whore he portrayed in previous books. He is a man with an ugly past who has grown into one hell of a man. But it took Jenny for him to
realize his truths. What I love is that Jenny did not give in like every other predictable love story. She made him fight for it. I love Nikan, and that is unusual because I do not do cheaters!!

This group of people are one hell of a family and I think they are closer then some people with their blood relatives. They all compliment each other so well. Jenny blended right in. She is wonderful.

Lennon has had me curious from the very beginning. I am so super excited he has a book coming out this year!!!! I can’t wait. The part with Lennon, Leon, and the drums brought me to instant tears. Beautiful.

Tears...omg I spilled quite a few over this book. So many sad moments and even more beautiful break through moments. Like Thomas and Harry and the bathroom, that messed me up. And all the boys came together. This book shows so many different paths. I just love it.

So if you want a book that gives you bad Boys, haunted pasts, sex, rock stars, changing lives, saving lives, Love, chaos, hurt, beauty, and so much more look no further. This book is written beautifully and I was transported to
this life in Canada. And trust me if this band of men existed they would have a stalker on their hands....

**I received this book as an Arc and in return gave my complete honest review**

So I will admit this is the first book by Scarlett Cole that I have read, and I’m happy to say I was not disappointed. I loved the story between Nik and Jenny.

Nik and Jenny have a past, a past where trust and hearts were broken. Jenny comes back to town after years apart and comes face to face with Nik, the person she never really wanted to see again. Nik, however, was more than happy when he saw Jenny again. Nik is home after touring with his band/his brothers, and working on fixing up his house. Jenny works at a home for boys, the same home that Nik spent time in.

One thing I like about this story was that it was not your typical book where the girl has no real backstory other than the boy broke her heart. Jenny had a rough upbringing that affects the way she is now as an adult. I also like that she made Nik work his way back into her life, there was no instant forgiveness.

“I’m building our house for us, and I don’t even know if you’ll ever move in. But like the house, we’ve had to strip back what we were to the bones of it, and now we get to decide what we want to do with that foundation.”

This quote absolutely sums up what Jenny and Nik have to do in order to move forward, and it is my favorite quote from this story. I really liked how Scarlett Cole handled the subject of what tore them apart, and took time to bring them back together, as well as how they interacted with the people in their lives.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Nikan Rebuilt. This was the first book that I've read in this series and it was a standalone.
It was a very in depth telling of Nikan and Jenny's second chance romance. This book takes on a very unique take as it includes Nikan's cultural background and the upbringing that Jenny had.
I easily became invested in these two characters and definitely had to know what happens between them.
Their story was beautifully told by Ms Cole and I look forward to reading more from this author!

5 Getting That Second Chance Stars!!!

I knew going into this book that I would probably need tears and I was right. But the amount of tears I cried for these characters was immeasurable. Both Nikan and Jenny are two people that are so damaged they never expected to have their chance at love again.

Nik has blocked off his heart so deeply that he almost doesn't feel the world around him outside of his band and brothers, but thanks to a chance meeting with Jenny, the girl he used to love, their worlds are about to change. Jenny is a woman that takes care of others to make sure they feel love unlike what she grew up with and it's truly a bittersweet site watching her care for those in her group home.

What can't be denied no matter how they try is their sizzling chemistry it's like they're drawn to each other and nothing can stop them...except one of them not wanting to get hurt again. And when we find out why they broke up all those years ago, my heart was with Jenny and I could feel her pain. Ms. Cole has the ability with her words that allows the reader to feel each and every emotion that the characters are feeling. It's like you can't help yourself but be drawn into the story and almost have to take sides just to almost make yourself feel better....that is until the way Nik goes about getting back his girl.

The more I read of this book the more I fell in love with our H/h. They have lived a life that I wouldn't wish on anyone and overcoming everything they have to be where they are is so much more than commendable. It truly shows their fortitude and their steadfastness in not succumbing to what others expectations of who they would grow up to be.

Once I was able to breathe again from all my tears, I was so happy that both Nikan and Jenny got this second chance allowing them to heal and truly have that forever love!

4 Stars - 3 Flames

Each one of these stories has been an emotional roller coaster. Not necessarily in a bad way, it just is. But one thing is for certain. This roller coaster definitely leaves you feeling that sense of rush and fulfillment.

Nikan, "Nik", is the other guitarist in the band Preload. Although he doesn't seem to give himself enough credit when it comes to his musical abilities, it's his "father-like" mannerisms that have seemed to have defined him throughout the years. Well, that and the fact that he royally messed up one night while out on tour, ruining his relationship with the one person he truly loved.

Jenny can't believe her luck. After running away from her past relationship with Nik and working at a group home in a different region, she finds herself not only back in town, but working at the exact group home she fell in love with Nik all those years ago. One things for sure. Wounds haven't yet healed and there's only one way to help with that. Face them head on.

This is such an inspiring story. After years of trying to "deal" with the lose of their relationship, it became very clear that neither one had truly resolved their issues. Is there a reason for everything? Of course there is. But does the reason excuse the act? Can trust be rebuilt? Is the past too difficult to overcome? These are all questions that each one of these two find answers to. And not just in relation to each other, but within themselves as well.

I've really enjoyed reading about each of these Preload guys. But I have a feeling that the next book is going to break me. I can't help but feel for Lennon, and I haven't even read his story yet.

*I was gifted this book from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.

reviewed by Chris

3.5 stars

I really enjoyed getting to know the Preload boys through their own books. The third book in this series is about Nikan. Just like the rest of the band, his story was filled with heartache and was also heartwarming. Nikan and Jenny were inseparable when they were younger. But they were torn apart thanks to Nikan. Years later, they meet again and Nikan wants to rekindle what was lost. Will these two perfect-together imperfectly people get their second chance? It wasn’t a quick restart to the romance though the love was still there. Trust is a major part of these two making it work. Nikan had to show Jenny that what happened in the past was a stupid mistake. Their relationship was slow building but when these two showed their love for each other it was beautiful. They complemented each other so well. I also really enjoyed getting to know more about Nikan. Though he was only a couple of years older than the rest of the band, he was much like a father figure type. He truly loved them and was there for them. It was interesting to see him need the others and for them to truly be brothers.

Jenny and Nikan and the supporting characters are what made this book work. Scarlett’s books are character driven. Through her writing, Scarlett has made them stand out and as a reader you feel a connection. Nikan Rebuilt was a great read. I have enjoyed everything that I’ve read from her. It was filled with the right mix of sexy and heart. I am excited for Lennon’s story. We were able to get more of an insight into him and I just know his story will be heartbreaking and hopeful.

If you’ve read any of the other books in the Preload series you know that Nikan grew up in a group home, met his best friends – his family – and they formed a metal band called Preload. Nik’s girlfriend while growing up was Jenny, who also lived in a group home (not the same one). They moved out of the home and Preload started on their journey to stardom. They fell in love and planned on being together forever. That is until Preload went on their first tour and Nik slept with someone else. Jenny was brokenhearted and ended up disappearing before Preload got back from their tour, never to see Nik again.

Jenny ended up going to school and becoming a social worker and worked in a group home. When the opportunity to run the same group home that Nik and the boys had grown up in, she takes it because it would be her first opportunity to be in charge – her dream. She knows there’s a possibility of running into Nik but she doesn’t expect it to happen so quickly and when it happens she’s wasn’t prepared for how the meeting affected her.

Nik never stopped thinking about Jenny. He knows he fucked up all those years ago and has never stopped looking for Jenny or regretting what he did. When he sees Jenny again he tells her exactly how he’s feeling about her and that he wants her back. Jenny wants nothing to do with Nik but he’s persistent and soon Jenny is falling under his spell once again.

This was another great book in the Preload series. This book showed us a different side of Preload than what we’ve seen before and I liked that we got down to the nitty gritty with the boys and their issues. Nik had always been the glue that kept it all together but that was stressful for him and he didn’t want everyone relying on him constantly. He also really didn’t like playing metal even though that’s what the band played. He wanted to make his own music but didn’t want to give up on Preload either. It was a tough thing to be caught in the middle of and hard for Nik to bring it up to the guys and actually have them understand. On top of those issues he was trying to get Jenny back and he was trying to focus solely on her. I felt for this guy. Yes, it was a complete asshole move to sleep with a freaking groupie when he had the love of his life back home, but I think that Cole really showed us how he had changed, grown, matured over the years. I honestly believed that he would never do that again.

Jenny’s situation was crazy. Her father had been a cult leader and had eventually tried to poison his followers – when that happened he made Jenny’s mother go first and she died before the authorities stepped in and saved a lot of lives. She’d arrived in the group home when she was about 13 years old and Nik had been her rock. When he betrayed her, she didn’t know what to do with herself, but it didn’t stop her from making her own dreams come true. She was also dealing with getting letters from her father who was trying to get her to visit him in prison telling her he’d changed (yeah, right). I admired Jenny’s strength with all she was going through with her dad and Nik as well as her dedication to the kids in the homes. I also liked that she didn’t give in to Nik right away. Yes, they ended up together, but she didn’t make it an easy road for him.

Overall the book was a really great one and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

Rating: 4 out of 5

This will post as a guest review on Book Binge.
http://bookbinge.com/

Nikan and Jenny both grew up in group homes, dealing with their own demons, regrets, and hardships in life. They fell very happily in love until Nik through it all away. Years later, their paths cross again, and the sparks are still there between them. Thus begins an emotional and very sexy journey into getting to know each other again as “grown-ups,” while Nik tries to make amends and Jenny tries to find the strength to forgive.

One of the many great things about this novel is the way author Scarlett Cole weaved so many relevant social and emotional issues into the storyline. Not only are most of the characters products of being in the foster system after experiencing terrible home lives as children, but there is also the prominent theme involving Nik being from Native American heritage and the prejudices surrounding that. Furthermore, the novel does an honest and appropriate job of bringing to light the effects of emotional and physical abuse has on children – making simple, day to day actions such as taking a bath difficult to tackle. Jenny, Ellen, and Maisey were all beautiful and inspirational characters as they devoted their lives to helping children and teens that had been dealt some very bad cards in life.

If you are a fan of some serious steamy, sexy, chemistry between characters, then just wait until you get to know Nik and Jenny. These characters are complex, passionate, and magnetic when together. There are some outstanding intimate moments between these two that will leave you absolutely in love with Nik! He’s sexy, talented, caring, selfless, and driven. Even with his personal demons and issues – he is just yummy!

I’ve loved the previous two books about Preload, but Nikan’s story is my favorite so far. It embodies so many different elements that all add up to an addictive, emotional, but very satisfying read. I can’t wait to read Lennon’s story next!

Thanks to NetGalley and Barclay Publicity for providing this ARC in exchange for my review.

❤4 SOUL-STIRRING STARS❤~🌟~❤

“What does it mean to be sorry?”

If you too are a lover of the angsty rock star trope, then NIKAN REBUILT, an emotionally-wrenching second chance romance featuring two former sweethearts who both grew up in foster care and became one another's lifeline amidst harrowing circumstances, only to be torn asunder by fame and infidelity, is guaranteed to ROCK YOU TO THE CORE!

Each book thus far in the Preload series by Scarlett Cole, featuring Dred, Jordan, Elliott, Nikan and Lennon, four strappingly handsome, profoundly damaged musicians who met in a boys home and forged a lifelong bond, has stolen a little piece of my heart. These hot, broody, tortured alphas are truly among the most ENDEARING heroes I have ever read! They live hard and love fiercely with a soft and sweet touch that belies their rough, exteriors.

Every one of these Preload boys has had a unique journey that's taken them to the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, and if you’ve been following this AMAZING series from the beginning you know that Dred, Jordan and Elliott are now happily settled in their lives, living out their HEA, and now it's Nikan's turn!

The Story in a nutshell:
When a chance encounter brings Nikan face to face with Jenny, the beloved girl from his past who now temporarily runs the group home he grew up in, it’s hardly a happy reunion. They were once deeply in love, kindred spirits until the Preload guitarist’s missteps cost him the love and respect of the only girl who mattered. As their paths collide to help the troubled young boys in Jenny's care, memories of their own anguished pasts come to the fore and it dredges up tumultuous emotions and rekindles searing desires that will either cause them to crash and burn or blaze the way for a harmonious future!

My Impressions:
Scarlett Cole is my GO-TO AUTHOR for sensitively depicted, thought-provoking romances that don't shy away from difficult subjects but rather embrace them with raw, unflinching honesty and pure, unbridled passion! And NIKAN REBUILT is a prime example. It is wonderfully paced, deeply introspective and incredibly moving, and the power and cadence of this gifted author’s words are truly awe inspiring.

Ms. Cole also excels at character driven romances, and Jenny and Nikan are beautifully faceted, ACHINGLY HUMAN and in such a frenzied state of inner turmoil that they stir deep visceral feels in the reader! And oh my did these two SMOLDER together…the hot, sexy times are guaranteed to keep you warm on even the coldest of nights!

Although he is HARDLY perfect, Nikan is a far cry from a quintessential bad boy rock star. As the eldest member of the band, he has always been the steady anchor, the “patriarch” who is constantly putting his foster brothers’ happiness and welfare above his own. But he has been feeling a gnawing sense of disillusionment and restlessness lately and everything comes to a head when he reconnects with the woman he loved and lost.

Nikan’s singular biggest regret is that one self-destructive, unforgivable mistake during his Preload world tour eight years ago caused him to decimate the life he'd planned with the girl he worshiped with every beat of his heart. Now he finds himself at pivotal crossroads as he sets out to atone for the past and reclaim his one true love while coming to terms with the demons that still live inside of him.

However, Jenny has a lot to grapple with as well. The kind and compassionate yet proud social worker has her own deeply festered wounds and crippling insecurities, manifested from her own traumatic upbringing by a fanatical commune leader, and does not exactly welcome Nikan back with open arms! He faces an uphill battle to get back in her favor after his devastating betrayal but is willing to jump through hoops to make amends! But can these two ever truly heal the rift between them and rebuild from the ground up?

Yikes! All I will divulge on that front is that their road to recovery is NOT an easy one. It's painful and gut-wrenching and is the kind of novel that literally SWALLOWS YOU WHOLE! I experienced so many intense emotions throughout but even in the darkest moments I felt my soul lifted by blinding rays of hope!

The supporting players and interconnecting secondary plots provided wonderful levity to the central storyline. The main emotional touchstone of this series is the fierce brotherly bond between Dred, Jordan, Elliott, Nikan and Lennon. They ALWAYS have each other’s backs so on the rare occasion when they get into a row or at odds, it's like a sledgehammer to my own heart!! And rumor has it that the Lennon’s story, which is coming in May, may be the most emotionally ELECTRIFYING Preload book of them all!

Bottom line:
At its core, NIKAN REBUILT is a slow-simmering, achingly beautiful tale about love and friendship, surrender and sacrifice, and the healing power of forgiveness! I relished every single PASSIONATE, POWERFULLY PROFOUND, HEARTSHATTERING MOMENT! My best advice? Have a few tissues handy because this is a story that breaks you, mends you, and resonates deeply in your soul like the chords of a haunting love ballad that you will never, ever forget!

Nikan was the glue that held together the people in his life. Jenny survived a nightmare to find hope in the love of Nikan, her first love, her only love. Jenny was Nikan's world. When Nikan betrays Jenny's trust with one bad decision it ruins all that they had. Can time heal her heart or destroy what is left of it when fate demands a reunion?

Nikan Rebuilt is the third book in Scarlett Cole's highly emotional Preload series and continues to have the powerful impact that the previous books in this series displayed with their sensitive subject matter and insightful writing. To err is human but to recognize and take ownership of one's mistakes makes Nikan a gifted builder and a character with more than superficial appeal. This author did a beautiful job of reconstructing this couple's relationship, from the rubble of past wrongs, in a realistic and convincing manner. Both Jenny and Nikan were intelligent and thoughtful portrayals that readers will be hard put to place blame or take sides against. The seemingly insurmountable task of recovering from the devastation of their breach of trust was done with a skill and kindness that is consistent with Ms. Cole's wonderfully distinct writing style. The yearning and desire between this pair was a steady presence throughout this work and by the end it was hard to contain the tears and not completely buy into this couple finding their happily ever after. A story where every word resonates Nikan Rebuilt should be on every romance reader's to be read list!

Nikan Rebuilt

Preload #3

By Scarlett Cole

Swerve January 2018

370 pages, Kindle and Paperback

Contemporary Romance, Second Chance Romance

I received a complimentary copy of this from Swerve and NetGalley. This is my voluntary review in which all opinions are my own. I am not being compensated in any way.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

I read and reviewed Jordan Reclaimed, the first book in the series back when it came out. And I loved it. I haven’t read the second book, Elliot Redeemed, but you can be sure I’ll be looking for it now that I’ve read this one. When I was first offered this book by the rep, it didn’t ring a bell with me what series it was. Once I saw the book cover and read the synopsis, I had more bells going off in my head than I could listen to! I remembered reading Jordan Reclaimed and meeting the boys of the house and Jordan and his beautiful ballerina’s romance. I put it in the schedule and had to wait to read it. Finally, it was time.

This book is certainly no disappointment. The story itself has a few weak spots in it and the pace is a bit wobbly in just a couple of places. Otherwise, this is everything you could wish for. Great characters with wonderful interaction and tension that keeps on pulling at your heartstrings through the whole thing.

Ellen, the “house mother” for this house full of boys has broken her leg and is out of the picture for a while. Jenny McKade is her substitute. Jenny used to live there in Toronto and know Ellen and her wife Maisey when she was in a similar house for girls after her mother and sister died and her father was put in prison. She was in a relationship with one of the boys who was in the house then, Nikan.

Nikan is now grown up and still living close by. Still involved with Ellen, Maisey, and the boys in the house. Nikan’s band is made up of “boys” from the house. They have all stayed involved with the house boys. Ten years ago, when the band went on tour, Nikan made a mistake. He cheated on Jenny. She left and hasn’t been seen or heard from since. Until now, that is. Neither one of them is quite prepared when the door opens and they face each other for the first time in a decade.

Jenny has a lot going on in her life. She’s getting her first chance to be evaluated for having her own “home”. How well she does while substituting for Ellen will really make or break her career in social services. She’s just gotten a letter telling her that her father has been moved into the general prison community due to how well he is doing and that he would like to see her to answer her questions. Then she gets another letter from him saying he is dying. Her father was the cult leader who poured poison into her mother and others. Something Jenny can’t forgive. On top of all this, she knows that Nikan and the band are still involved with the house and that she will have to deal with him at some point. Him and her feelings for him.

Nikan is also going through a rough time. He’s recently had some old videos stolen and released that are more than personal and the press just won’t leave them alone. He’s purchased an old house and is living in it while it’s being demo’d and reno’d. A genealogy TV show is after him to be on the show and reveal his family story. He’s not sure he wants to reveal that much of himself and his family’s pain. He’s been feeling unlike himself for a while. He’s always been the parent figure in this group of young men. He’s always been the peacekeeper, the solution finder, the reasonable one. But lately, he feels like he needs more. “But as always he didn’t want to burden any of them with his shit. He’d hidden his real feelings about just about everything for as long as he could remember.” And now Jenny’s back.

The author does a magnificent job of dealing with all this emotional entanglement and the various pressures on this young couple. She adds in the elements of the boys in the home with the social services situation and the group issue being dealt with by the band with master strokes. Scarlett Cole writes some of the best complex books I’ve enjoyed. That’s why I need to go back and read the second book as soon as I can. Missing part of this story just isn’t an option. I highly recommend Nikan Rebuilt to romance readers who enjoy helping those in the dark find the light.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Kris – ☆☆☆☆☆
I've loved this spin off series! Nikan is the glue that holds the "brothers" of Preload together. He's been the father figure since they were little kids in the group home. After being unfaithful to his first love, Jenny, while on their first tour, Nikan has been drifting. He ruined his relationship and then went off the rock and roll deep end with booze and sex. Finally pulling himself together, the boys are back in their hometown to record the next album and Nikan runs into Jenny. These two may have had a tough break up but they still spark like wildfire. Nikan was all about showing Jenny he's changed and grown. She's leery after having her heart broken once. I found Nikan repentant enough, without being overly butt kissing, and thankfully Jenny didn't milk him dry. The story was well told and didn't drag at all. Thoroughly enjoyed!


Sarah – ☆☆☆☆☆
I love this series so much! Nikan has always been in the background of the series. He’s the quiet brother, the peacemaker, and the one who holds the band together. It’s probably fitting that there is much less drama in his story than in Dred, Elliott, and Jordan’s books. Nikan and Jenny’s story is one of childhood sweethearts reunited. They’ve never forgotten each other, but she’s not sure she’ll ever be able to trust him again.

Nikan’s childhood was as grim as his brothers’ and he has struggled to deal with his past trauma as an adult. Jenny is the first woman in the series to grow up in care with the boys. Her own story is awful, and she is still working through some of her own issues. I loved her strength and I love that she’s not just a survivor, she has returned to the care system as a group home manager.

As a foster carer myself, I love the focus on the care system in these books. But while the band members’ care stories resonate with my own experiences, there were times that Jenny’s kids were a little bit too well adjusted and some of their problems resolved far too quickly and easily.

I really liked the way the author approached Nikan’s First Nations heritage. While he is a few generations removed from residential schools and the Indian Act, Nikan struggles to come to terms with the impact these historic crimes have had on his life. It's a thoughtful exploration that adds to Nikan's story without dominating it.

I feel like this is a gentler, sweeter romance than the previous books. Jenny and Nikan’s connection is a simple one, forged in childhood. With less drama, there is more space for character development and both Jenny and Nikan felt wonderfully real and beautifully complex.

I can’t wait for Lennon’s story!


Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
3.5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Click HERE to see Avid Reader’s review on Goodreads for trigger warnings.

Nikan is the glue that holds the band and his brothers together. When there is an issue, they all turn and look at him. What he doesn't realize until midway through the story, is that perhaps he's let his brothers lean too much on him. How would they survive without him? He has a past that is less than shiny but a future that is full and bright.

Jenny is the girl that was left behind. She grew up with Nikan and his brothers and when they really made it, she was happy for them. However, with their fame came a heartache that she has never fully recovered from. She's shy around Nikan because of their past, however, she isn't willing to let that past rule her future.

These two have a slow burn of a romance. Nikan is trying to show that he's changed, and Jenny is trying to see Nikan's changes. There are other aspects of this story, like Nikan's heritage and Jenny's job and running of the house that they all grew up in, but the romance is the primary aspect.

I thought that Nikan's story was more of a simmer than the previous books. I can't wait to see what happens next.


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆☆
This is the third book in the Preload series, and I think is possibly my favourite so far. As the other band members find their true loves, Nik is finding himself redundant in his role of nurturer and carer of the men.

He is still hankering after his first (and possibly only) love, Jenny. He is renovating a house to match their teenage dream home, and just wishes he could track her down. He is also questioning his music and his future with the band. Add in a request to do a show about his heritage, and the way his First Nation grandparents were ill-treated. and he has a lot on his mind. So, when he finds Jenny managing the group home he grew up in... his life spins a little out of control.

Watching him find himself, and his place, as well as rekindle his romance, is an emotional and fascinating read. I felt that Ms. Cole did an amazing job of giving us as much as we needed, but not overloading with sentiment. It was by turns hot, fun, sad, intense, and slightly crazy. It certainly had me turning pages late into the night, as I was so absorbed in the outcome.

As part of Nik's story, we inevitably got caught up with the rest of the band and Ellen and Maisy too. It is such a treat to know how they move forward with their lives, and to know that there is more to come for the still single members of the band.


Mary Jo – ☆☆☆☆☆
Everyone has made mistakes, ones that cost them everything. That's what Nikan did when he was a just a young man, missing home and the love of his life. He slept with another woman and didn't have the guts to come clean. It didn't matter though, it still cost him the love of his life, his Jenny.

Ten years later and he's still in love with her. It kills him not knowing where she is or if she's okay. In the meantime, he's still playing the role of patriarch to his bandmates, his brothers. It’s a role he's played for years. Taking care of everyone, yet it’s tiring. He's tired of being the caretaker, he longs for the day that someone will care enough about him to want to take care of him.

When Jenny walks back into his life unexpectedly, he’s overwhelmed at the ferocity of love that he still feels for Jenny. It’s as if it was just waiting for her to come back to him, so that his world can be infused with brightness once again. He understands Jenny's wariness of him and his lifestyle.

Jenny still loves Nikan, she just can't forget the hurt so easily. As she gets to know Nikan again, she sees how he has changed, grown up, and is truly becoming the man she always thought he could be. What she didn't expect to see is how alone he is in a room full of his brothers, and that the only place he seems at peace is with her.

Fighting demons, both real and imagined, takes its toll on Nikan, and when he breaks, he shatters, and only Jenny can piece his world back together.

Preload is a rockband that was formed by a close group of friends who were raised in a group home. Nikan is the guitarist and the one that everyone goes to when they need advice or guidance and that is the only reason that he survived the worst mistake of his life which was the night that he hurt and lost the only woman he will ever love Jenny.

Jenny had a horrendous childhood even before she was sent to a group home. She and Nikan were high school sweethearts until the night he broke her heart and she left as she couldn’t handle the pain of being near him even though the media attention ensured that she knew everything about his career and his way with women through the media.

Eight years later she is back in her hometown to manage the group home that Nikan and his friends were raised in but she didn’t expect to see him there or to have him bring up all the feelings she had tried to move past. Although Nikan is wealthy and successful in his career when he sees her again he knows that she is what has been missing from his life but will Jenny be able to overcome their pasts and be able to trust Nikan again?

This is an amazing series and this book is no exception. It is a story about betray, forgiveness and a new beginning for two people who were meant to be. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.