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Harper Reagan has been through everything a woman could possibly go through. Losing her parents and entering foster care, only to be abused by her foster father. Running away at fifteen, she enters the world’s oldest profession to survive. And survive she did.
Barely...
If you call abuse, counted as property and tortured to no end surviving then that was what she did…survived. Her life was spared, but at what cost. Long ago Harper had died. Today, due to those decisions she made, she is left existing with no choice to do anything else. Staring the devil in the face daily for as long as she did, left its mark and pain behind for her to live with forever.
The pain of that survival scars her deeper than any physical wound she's ever received.
Harper is finally living a better life and has a great business, friends, and a home finally her own. She will do anything to keep her past hidden, including jeopardizing her only chance at love and a truly good man.
Breccan Caldwell is everything Harper doesn't deserve. He's gorgeous, successful, caring and a true gentleman.
Can Breccan show Harper who she truly is? Or will he be pushed out by the darkness she allows herself to be consumed with?

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2013

2 people are currently reading
627 people want to read

About the author

Jessica Spoon

2 books189 followers

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5 stars
72 (54%)
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31 (23%)
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21 (15%)
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2 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,622 reviews10.9k followers
August 29, 2013



WHAT THE FUCK DID I JUST READ!!

A former prostitute and a man determined to uncover the secrets of her past..

GET READY FOR A HELL OF A RIDE!!

I had no idea what I had gotten myself into reading this, the horror that was Harper's past is right in your face from page 1..The emotions were like a roller coaster set on one speed (FAST), with no stops along the way!! And yep at one stage I'll even admit I even puked in my mouth a little bit!!


This book is raw, gritty, mind blowingly fucked up..Not for the fainted hearted!!

Profile Image for Chris- Bookaddict.
778 reviews253 followers
July 27, 2013
Updated with Full Review 7/27/13

5 AMAZING Intense, Dark, Painful, Heartbreaking ,loving Stars !!!!!!!

This is an Amazing debut novel from Jessica Spoon, It is Dark I will not lie. This book was so raw, intense, A mind F*ck for sure.
This is not your normal fall in love, happily ever after kind of story. This is a dark, raw, very intense book.

Yes I know I have said that it is intense more then once, you need to understand that before you jump into this book.

Harper Reagan has been through everything a woman could possibly go through. Losing her parents and entering foster care, only to be abused by her foster father. Running away at fifteen, she enters the world’s oldest profession to survive. And survive she did.
Barely...

Harper God I feel her pain, with every single flash back and nightmare she has I was right there with her. I was cringing while reading parts of her story. She has been through a lot of darkness in her life for sure, But she has also been saved.

After a rough night, Harper is finally saved by Nikko. Nikko has been looking for her for yrs. I won’t tell you who Nikko is I will let you find out for yourself, but know he does save her.

After all Harper has been through she finally gets her life on track and hides from her past daily. She still is haunted nightly in her dreams by her dark past, and dark it sure was. She stays private, out of the eyes of the public to an extent. She has built a life in a new place. She has a bar, lives in an upscale Penthouse/ condo , she buys anything she wants after not having nothing when she was younger.

Everything changes in the blink of an eye one day when one day the hot Adonis Breccan Cladwell comes walking into her bar and their eyes meet.

Breccan is hot, sexy, has beautiful eyes and a to die for smile. He is every woman’s dream , but he is to risky for Harper as he is famous. He is always in the spotlight, and camera’s follow him. She tries her hardest to resist him, but he is not taking no for an answer. He even resorts to stalking her. He pushes her and she finally gives in and decides to see where things go, but wants to keep things private so news does not get out about her anywhere.

Breccan is understanding to a point, but soon they are fighting , arguing, and Harper is constantly trying to run from him and her feelings. When they fight and argue it is intense, but the making up and sex after is mind blowing for sure.

I don’t want to go into any more details then I have as I don’t want to ruin it for anyone, but I will leave you with this.

NOTE* this does have a cliffhanger, Not a OMG what did you do and why did you leave me like this , but it has a pretty good one. As far as I know she is looking at September for Book #2 and there will be a Book #3.

Jessica you knocked it out of the park as far as I am concerned for a debut Novel. This book is intense, raw, mind blowing, but there is love also. I can not wait for book #2 and to see where things go for Harper and Breccan. Please for the LOVE of god let him tell her why he calls her Dove and what it means !!!!!!! I hope when all is said and done they do get their HEA in the end. Harper truly deserves it.
Profile Image for Veronica.
7 reviews
July 25, 2013
What made me interested to read this book from the first are the snippets posted by the author on her facebook page. Everything is nice and i really love how the stories goes throughout the book..but i have one complaint! Its the ending of this book! Gosh Dear Ms Jessica..why why why do you leave me hanging?

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I didn't expect there'll be second and third book..surely i'm gonna anticipate it! Ok now back to this book..well what can i say? From the first chapter..this was my reaction

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Like seriously..what did i just read??? The 'dark' part of Harper was damn mind f*cking intense! (Sorry for the harsh words but hey it is mind f*cking intense!) There are some 'dark' scenes that i read as fast i could without imagining it in my head because I so cannot tolerate or imagine that kind of darkness happened in someone's life..
So Harper Reagen life is so not perfect and her past is full of darkness (mind fucking intense darkness) and secrets that she try very hard to kept it locked away. Despite all the 'Darkness' she survived..She left all 'Darkness' behind and build a new life which is a perfect life for her..She's living in a dream like life with all the expensive penthouse, shoes and clothes and of course her expensive cars..Everything is perfect for her..except..all these changes when she found the most beautiful gorgegous Adonis..Breccan Cladwell..

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She can't resist him because of his gorgeous face, smirk and beautiful smile and not to mention dirty dirty dirty mouth! Just look at this smirk..can you resist him? No right?

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Breccan is the guy that every girls dream of..but not for Harper unfortunately..He's too risky for her..and being with him will bring danger to Harper..why? Because Breccan is a famous person due to he being on America's most eligible list bachelor. So he being famous is so not what Harper need because Breccan being famous will bring back all the 'Darkness' that Harper already buried deep..with this reason she tried very hard to resist Breccan but a man is a man..some more he found his dove there is no way in the hell he gonna back down right?

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Breccan is a man who never knows the meaning of No so he keep on fighting and wanting Harper's attention. He even stalk her! Sounds creepy huh? But hey if a gorgeous Adonis is stalking you would you feel creepy? I don't think so..
So with all the effort and pushing form Breccan..Harper finally give in..Hell how can she resist that gorgeous Adonis? No way! She can't even resist him even she tried!

Breccan try as he might to be tolerant and super understanding man for Harper but Harper is always insecure and always wants to run. Oh she's also super stubborn with a very good left hand punch! But every person has his limit right? Try hard as he might he still want to know what had happened to his dove. So here goes the fights and tears. Despite all the fights..shouts..and tears..the attraction and sex between these two is..fuuuhhhh~ HOT!! Well that is the reason for how they can be attracted to each other right from the first place..All the lifting and wall banging hugs and kiss is so damn hot!

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This book is written based on Harper's mind..which quite frustrating cause i'm sure a lot of people want to know what in Breccan's mind..i'm sure does! And when i reach the epilogue i was like hell yes!!! Because it's written based on Breccan's mind. Finally i can get into his mind! I hope Ms Jessica will consider write this book based on Breccan's mind? Pleasssseeee~

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I would recommend this book to any reader who love intense angsty love story. This sure will feed your hunger! And yes i definitely give 5 stars for this book!

P/s..Dear Ms Jessica..may i know the second book release date? So that i can keep my counting? Hehe..Anyway for a debut book..i think i can say it's a success for you. I'm not sure about someone else opinion but i do love and like this story! And thank you for writing such story. Never in my life reading such intense story..(The 'Dark' side of Harper) and i'm so looking forward for the next book! Congratulation on your debut book! =)
Profile Image for Jamie.
1,048 reviews935 followers
Want to read
May 24, 2013
Definitly intrigued... Sounds good! Looking forward to the release of the one!


Profile Image for Tee loves Kyle Jacobson.
2,524 reviews180 followers
July 30, 2013
HOLY F^&% WHAT DID I JUST READ...................

OMG Darkness Deserved is a debut for Jessica Spoon and holy shizz I can't think straight enough to write this review. I mean I am totally BLOWN AWAY by story that I cannot string my thoughts together enough to get this review done. Lord this is one F%^&$# up story that needs to be read. I mean you talk about raw open uninhibited writing shizz this is it. I mean this story is so dam intense and dark that I was hoping an praying the main character would get some light.

Harper Reagan has had a rough childhood. Her parents died and she was sent to foster care because she had no other family. While in foster care she was abused by the foster father who was the scum of the earth and I wanted to reach in this book and rip his privates off and feed it to the birds bobit style! After taking all she could take Harper runs away at fifteen and has no idea how she is going to survive so she does the only thing left to do and that is the oldest profession in the book to survive. At first she was scared but she just shut off her emotions and did what she had to do to survive on her own.

But one night she is hurt and someone saves her. Nikko is her knight in shinning armor and brings her to safety. Harper realizes she needs to get out of that profession and she does. She buys a bar and condo and starts a new life. She has great friends and is starting to rebuild her life and feel safe and secure until a gorgeous guy walks into her bar and has eyes for her. Breccan Caldwell lord have mercy is all kinds of gorgeous and make your panties wet dream come true so when he peruses Harper she knows she must stay away from him. She does not want her past being revealed so she will sacrifice her feelings for Breccan and stay away from him. But Breccan is determined to get Harper and he is a man on a mission and when she let's her walls down she is terrified and tells him they have to keep the relationship private. Well as we all know alpha males do not go for that because he wants to be with her openly so they are constantly fighting.

What happens when someone discovers who she is? Will Breccan understand then or will he high tale it out there? I have to give you a heads up because most of my book buddies hate this there is a F^&%*^% HUGE cliff hanger and I am not sure when book two comes out in September so be ware!!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
4,013 reviews431 followers
May 20, 2015
Make sure you read Darkness Deserved first before you read this book.

Ok where do I start. Well my breathing has gone back to normal. I felt as if I was holding my breath nearly all the way through this book. Yes it's that kinda book. I loved book one but this may have topped it. The author literally gripped me from page one and hooked me right until the end.

Harper is such a great strong character. I'm so in love with Breccan and Nikko. Such great alpha males. Loved the secondary characters in this story.

Absolutely brilliant these two books are. I highly recommend these two books. I'll certainly be thinking of them for a long time.
Profile Image for Christine.
750 reviews15 followers
August 1, 2013
THIS IS THE MOST depressing, fucking insane, hot, crazy, can't wrap my head around it, tears are leaking everywhere, book that will forever be in my brain.

If I could Ever tell anyone advice; read this shit. Then go volunteer at a women's shelter or something.

Seriously. Wow. Wowowowowoowowowow.

Absolutely and utterly speechless is why this book made me.

Huge cliff hanger. Which sucks!!!!! So please, get that second book out fast!!!!!!
Profile Image for CasPerfitz~SLiTsReaD.
649 reviews40 followers
August 10, 2016
I'm sad to say that this book just doesn't do it for me.... and I was really looking forward to reading this too. :(

It did take off to a good start, I thought I was going to like Harper, and I was feeling her story... But it only went downhill when Breccan entered the picture.... but it was probably heading that way either way and Breccan just added to it, lol.

I find Harper too vain and bitchy... I'm thinking she's too insecure and she compensates by constantly stating her expensive taste of clothing and how good she looks. And I find it way convenient and redundant that almost everyone would praise her on her beauty!!

Seriously, there are so many lines here that keeps me eye-rolling.

Then yeah, she's got an attitude, which I normally like on a female character, but hers is just an irrational bitchy attitude that is so frustratingly irritating! She really needs to seek help.

While Breccan is needy, whiny, creepy and most of the time, he sounds like a girl.... As my gorgeous friend Sil would say, "he has a mangina!" LOL

He is creepy cause he stalks Harper like scary crazy he would just show up everywhere she is.... And he doesn't get the word "NO".

Whiny and needy cause he begs and cries for Harper all the time! I wish he would show some balls! To say he is an alpha male cause he gets possessive, meh, it takes more than that to make one an alpha.

Anyway, I did not like him but I did feel sorry for him.

As for the story, this is one of those where the two lead characters are too stubborn and refuses to just tell each other their secret and get it over with. Which, just got tiring really.

On to the sex part where Beccan just wants to hump Harper all the time. They also have this trend : she gets mad and wants him to leave or she wants to leave and he fucks her instead and all is well.

Sex lines like "I don't think it will fit", for me is not hot but laughable. And there was one sex scene were they were supposedly getting busy (you know what I mean, hehe), and her mind just drifted off elsewhere that she has to jolt back and focus on what Breccan was doing to her, well, it mustn't be that good then. lol.

I was close to just doing a "DNF" but I really hate doing that so I skimmed after just about 50% of the book... which only headed to a very predictable ending.

There is also Nikko, Harper's friend, who is 10 years older than her and she describes him as more like a "father" to her, she is like 29 so he is 39, ouch! Can't he just be more like a "brother" instead? I'm kidding... Not! lol... Seriously, poor guy. I'd feel old too!

So yeah, this book is definitely not for me. Sorry. :(



Profile Image for Babel.
2,344 reviews196 followers
July 9, 2014
I wanted to read these books because I'm always attracted to characters who have to overcome really dark pasts to get to their happy ending. Hopefully, Harper will finally achieve that. Though I foresee pain as twisted as the past she's running from.

First reviewed on http://sede-literaria.blogspot.com

In a very unladylike inner voice, Harper tells her story, unsweetened and all sins bare. She's come a long way and now stands proud, free. In walks temptation to breach her carefully risen walls, but she fights to keep him away. Breccan is infatuated with the beautiful but aloof bar-owner, unaware that prostitution and torture mark her past.

What I like about Harper is that she's resilient to no end. No matter what life crushed her with, she managed to reinvent herself, become the woman she was supposed to be.

Through to her nightmares, we get to know about the horrible episodes that marked her youth. They're interspersed along Harper's present life. Let me warn you they're pretty graphic and disturbing.

Favourite sexy moment? After an explosive peak of pleasure, the man actually dresses Harper back, and it's so sweet and intimate!

Level of heat? Plenty and no quarter given. Though I missed a little bit of sensual anticipation.

Odd and off? Breccan pushes too hard at the connection with Harper. He wants to be serious from minute one. Didn't seem believable to me, but an excuse for making anonymity really hard for Harper. She keeps telling him to back off, trying to protect herself, but he just gives a damn. After all, they hardly know each other.

To me, Breccan seems a bit contrived as a character, like he's been created for the sole purpose of being the perfect guy for the heroine. Besides, what girl craves for rough sex after all the horrible things she's been through?

Anyway, I enjoyed the sweet dynamics with friends and family, all supportive and fun. In particular, it brought a smile to my face every time Harper's dog acts like the centre of her world. He's so cute.

The story is good: it has drama, lots of steamy scenes, and grit. I cringe at the dark things Harper has lived through that kept me on edge. On the other hand, the narrative wasn't engaging enough for me. The couple's relationship is too fast to become life-altering, but it still turns out to be passionate and intense so that it doesn't let go of one's attention.

It ends in painful heartbreak and danger to Harper. The world she's so carefully built around her darkest secrets is crumbling down. Let's see how much grief is in store for her in the next novel!
Profile Image for Shay.
1,269 reviews39 followers
June 19, 2014
I just finished Ascending Darkness and I loved it! What a follow up! This is apart of the Shattering the Darkness series so it does need to be read in order starting with Darkness Deserved. This story is about Breccan and Harper. As you know DD ended with Harper asking Breccan to leave because in her mind, the past was going to come back and haunt her. She wanted to protect her family and friends. She feels like she doesn't deserve happiness as it is so why bring down everyone else with her. But little does she know that she does deserve it. Breccan is tying to give get time but he is a very persistent man and can only wait so long. Will Harper be able to forgive herself for what happened in her life and be able to let people in? You will have to read and see.

I really enjoyed this story. I thought that it flowed really well and love how Miss Spoon kept up with the same style of writing. Present with past tense flashbacks. I like how she added Breccans voice as well. You really get a feel for both of the characters that way. It all comes full circle. Does Harper get her vengeance? That is something you will have to find out!

Breccan Breccan Breecan. I'm gonna be honest. If you read my first review he freaked me out a little. Too fast too soon and don't get me started on his stalker tendencies! It took me a bit but I fell in love with him. Now I simply adore him too. He just loves her and knew she was the one for him and he had to act like that because of Harpers insecurities. He just knew. I love that. He wants to heal her and the only way to do that is for her to be honest and take that chance and open up. I get her though. She was dealt with a bad blow and she did what she had to to survive. I commend her for that. She is strong and brave and I just wanted her to have her HEA! One thing that I will say, they are hot together and I swear to you to keep some extra panties around. You are gonna need them. WINK!!!!

I loved the secondary characters. Miss Spoon did and amazing job with their voices. They were good sounding boards for Harper and Breccan. They were there for them no matter what. Friends are your family. It's not about blood. It's about being there regardless.

Seriously I'm glad I took a chance on this. I enjoyed it and so will you!!

Story 5 +++
Sex 5++++
Overall 5++++
Reviewed by Beggin from Mommys a Book Whore
Profile Image for Renee W. Tyler,  Battery Operated Book Blog.
290 reviews3 followers
June 25, 2014
So we pick up right where we leave off in Deserving Darkness and go straight into Ascending Darkness. We left off with Harper being in fear of getting involved with Breccan due to her past and what she had to do to in order to survive, the fear of being found because of her past, and that she basically does not feel deserving of finding love.

Breccan is trying to get Harper to understand that she in fact does deserve to allow herself to love, even though she will not let the walls down and allow him in to actually get to know her completely. He has gotten approval from Nikko to be patient with Harper.

This book actually takes us further into who Harper is, and why she is the way that she is. This story takes up deep into Harper's past and allows us to see all that she had to deal with and was subjected to and why she feels that she deserves the darkness that she lives in. We also see that when Harper loves, she loves hard, and that shows with her friends, her bar, employees, and Bane her dog. She is confronted with her love for Breccan and the fact that he is not willing to let her chase him off, even if she feels as if she in not deserving of love.

I will say that this is not a book or set of books for the faint of heart. Some of the situations that Harper was subjected to are very descriptive and will have you feeling the sheer pain that she was dealt. On the flip side we get to see why Harper has the fears that she has, how Breccan reaches out to her, and how much support she actually has without even realizing it. I am glad that I had both books to read back to back so that I could get the whole feel of the story. I also could feel the emotions that Harper dealt with throughout the books. My only complaint other than the cliffhanger in book one is that book two seemed to have a bit to much sex for me. Don't get me wrong, I love a hot and steamy story, but at points I found myself skipping through some of the sexual parts of the book. With this being said, I do not feel that you will be disappointed once you finish reading them, and yes if you are one who does not like a book with strong emotional conflict and hitting on some serious topics, then no these are not for you, but if you don't mind facing demons for say and taking a walk with a person without a soul for say, than this book with give you enjoyment.
127 reviews1 follower
July 26, 2013
I just had finished reading this book. I have to say that I really enjoyed the book. I will not go into a lot of details of the book because I don't want to spoil the story. This book was a very fast easy read. I had really fallen in love with Harpers character. As she hard a hard life growing up she had done a wonderful job of hiding from here childhood. When she was rescued by someone who she looks up to as her father has help her thru out. Wish that he help her not to always hide from her past. She fell in love with a wonderful man that she need to let in her life. So Harper tell him what happened don't push him away. He should decide for himself.

I hope this will become a series.

I highly recommend this book to my friends.

* I was given a copy to read in return for my honest review *
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
4,013 reviews431 followers
July 2, 2014
Absolutely brilliant. Yes I thoroughly loved this book.

Harper is damaged. She can only see darkness. That is until Breccan enters her life. Harper is a former prostitute. She had no choice. She was damaged before she turned to prostitution. Will Breccan be strong enough to fight for her? This isn't a sweet romantic story. There are scenes of abuse & rape in this story. Having said that I found the way the author told this story to be brilliant. I was totally gripped. I could literally feel my heart thump in parts of this book.

I'm so glad I didn't read this book until book two was out as it ends in a cliffhanger.
Profile Image for Meshele Carralero.
2 reviews3 followers
July 29, 2013
Truly enjoyed this book. The characters were well written and had depth. The storyline flowed well. Harper does experience some horrific graphic situations that can be difficult to read through; however are needed for her character development. The connection between her and Brec is addictive. I loved reading about their relationship and the romance scenes were well written. The other characters were also lovable! I adore the book and can't wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Becky Ellis.
30 reviews22 followers
August 11, 2013
Loved this book. It sucked me in and I can't wait for the second book.

Is there a date for #2?
Profile Image for Kassandra.
152 reviews149 followers
July 29, 2013
I shut down every emotion I possess, like I’ve forced myself to do so many times before, and allow my brain and body to become numb with the pain.

Where do I began?!?! For starters this book is not intended for readers that can not handle the subject of prostitution, violence, graphic scenes, and just dark and uncomfortable situations. I have to admit that there was only one scene in Darkness Deserved that made me uncomfortable, because of the violent graphic details.
Right from the beginning, Darkness Deserved starts off in a really dark and realistic situation-Harper is having a nightmares of her experiences of being a prostitute. The first nightmare really gives you a taste to all the pain she goes through, and what she suffered at a young age. Jessica Spoon focuses Darkness Deserved on Harper's life after escaping her life as a prostitute. So Darkness Deserved is not really about prostitution, but we do get a sense of that lifestyle through the dreams Harper experiences throughout the book.

"My scars are just that. Mine. They’re mine to bear and no one else’s. You don’t go through what I did and not pay a price. These are my price to pay.”

I felt sympathy, sorrow, and pain for Harper's character because she is just really broken from inside. She might not seem broken from the outside, because she is really good at hiding her emotions. Harper puts up walls to block out others from affecting her, because she knows it is too dangerous to let others in her life. All the situations Harper goes through at a young age are just horrible. She not only caries physical scars on her body, but she has deeper scars that affect her (she can't let go of the demons of her past) and won't let her be completely free to live her life.
What I loved about Harper's character is that she is headstrong (not always a good thing), she is a fighter, she is compassionate, and just the fact that there is a great women deep inside her that can be released once she is able to deal with her demons.

I swear to you that I will not give up. You can try to hide forever, but it won’t work. You were made for me.

OMG BRECCAN!!!! Yup, Breccan is one of my new book boyfriends :D! What is there not to love about this handsome Adonie ;D (once you read the book you will understand). Breccan is a stubborn, hardheaded, loving, passionate, compassionate, sexy, panty-droper, alpha-male. Plus, the Breccan is a sexy original name (2 thumbs-up to Jessica Spoon)! Where should I began with Breccan? I think I already summarized everything in that one sentence above, but I will try to expand a little more.
Breccan really wants to be part of Harper's life, and he does everything in his power to make her realize how much he loves her. This is where I wanted to slap Harper, because there she has a great man standing in front of her, begging her to be part of his life. But. Harper believes that he just wants to be part of her life for a few weeks, because he is a complete womanizer- that changes once he meets Harper. You just NEED to read Darkness Deserved to meet this wonderful man.

“You make me lose it every time I look at you. Touch you. Smell you. Talk to you.” He says in between nips.

My lips touch his lightly and I breathe a sigh of relief. Drug straight to my veins. His lips part slightly and I graze my tongue barely inside. His hands let go of mine and run slowly to my waist and grip.

The physical attraction between these two is just explosive, literally the slightest touch ignites their fire. Once these two get it on in the bedroom, it is like a volcanic explosion- HOT, HOT, HOT! There are a lot of sex scenes in Darkness Deserved, but I am not complaining. I wish I had my own Breccan! Like I said their relationship is a lot about sex, but Breccan does everything to make Harper open up herself to him. He treats he like she is the most precious jewel he has ever held in his hands. Breccan is both gentle and rough with Harper, and I just loved that about their relationship.

I feel like I am finally finding my place in this dark world I’ve lived in for so long.

Darkness Deserved by Jessica Spoon was dark, heart-wrenching, mind blowing read. I finished Darkness Deserved in one sitting-that's just how amazing this book was. I could not for the life of me put Darkness Deserved down. I will admit that I thought that I had the story figured out, and I thought I knew when something bad was going to happen. But none of that happened. I never knew what to expect next in the story, or what other nightmares I would read about Harper.
I have one thing to say to Jessica Spoon about the ending. WHY DID YOU HAVE TO END IT LIKE THAT?!?!?!?!? I loved reading from Breccan's POV, but now I want-correction NEED- to know what is going to happen next. Is someone from Harper's life going to show up? Is hell going to be unleashed? Is Harper going to stay or leave? What will Breccan do now? I NEED Darkness Found NOW!!!!

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Profile Image for Tbird London.
558 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2014
Oh what can I say about this follow up book to Darkness Deserved, except pure perfection. The book starts off where she left us in book one, Harper and Breccan are both devastated over the break up but neither will make the first move to rectify the problem. Breccan feels Harper needs to learn to trust him and come back on her own will, Harper sees the danger of having him in her life and refuses to risk him for her happiness. I felt the beginning was a bit slow for my taste, but then I realized that some would appreciate this refresh telling of book one due to the time between reading books. I had the chance to read them together at one time so for me it was more repetitious.
Thanks goodness her friends know more than she is willing to admit and helps the process along. Now that we see them together we can celebrate their happiness, but that won’t last long. The nightmares don’t stop for her.

Worse than that, they have now mixed her past together with her future. That dreaded day comes when the threats start, the reality of her past attacker has come clear and she is left to decide if she has had enough running and hiding, looking over her shoulder to see when the past would attack. Does she have it in her to fight for her future with Breccan and the freedom she craves?

We learn more about Harper’s past and who was behind the scenes in rescuing her ten years ago. As she begins to tell Breccan who and what she is it was almost as if she were taking away a layer of the mask she hid behind.

Breccan, while I was fictionally in love with him in the first book, won even more of my heart as I watched him respond to her past story. Side note here to give kudos to the author. Breccan would have had every right to run for the hills after hearing what Harper went through, but he didn’t. What I adore about how this author played it out was he was acting like a real man. She allowed him to have the thoughts that we would assume a man would think and didn’t cover it up with the idea he has to be the perfect alpha man who will never wonder or feel insecure about her truth. Did he feel those emotions yes and we as the reader knew it, but he stood firm and loved her. I loved this part of the book, there was no shame in him being human and wondering about where that will fit in with his relationship with Harper.

It was the type of story that you needed to grab the tissues, yank your big girl panties on and keep moving through because there was just no way I would have been able to just stop and never know what happens to them. It was a love story. You saw a story of survival and determination. What I took away most was this is a story of victory. Her shattered and beaten soul finally found the courage to think she deserved better and she was willing to fight for it. That is true victory and I am so happy the author took the time to develop it in this story.
Profile Image for Shay.
1,269 reviews39 followers
June 18, 2014
I just finished Darkness Deserved and I loved it. It took me a little bit to get into it but damn, I’m glad I stuck with it. I really enjoyed it. This story is about Harper. She is finally able to live the life that we all want her to have. Trust me, when you read it, it will all make sense. She has had a rough life, worse than what you can think of. Nikko saves her and we find out that her parents were murdered when she was 3 and her babysitter that night was high and when she saw the cops, she took Harper with her. But then she freaked out and dropped Harper off at the hospital and then she ended up in Foster Care because no one came for her. Now she is saved from the horrible life that she had and is living it up. Here walks in Breccan. He wants her, has never been told no in his life and chases her. He will do whatever he can to have her. Harper doesn’t believe she deserves love and will do everything in her power to not give into Brecc. But what happens when you are dealing with a very persistent person and you are feeling what he is feeling? You will just have to read and see.

I really liked this story. I must admit it did take me a bit to get into it. I think it was more to do with Breccan and his stalking tendencies but I got used to him and then just enjoyed it. I liked how Miss Spoon developed the story. In present time with past tense parts made is great for me. I find you can learn a lot about a character when you do it like that. With that being said, I thought it flowed really well.

Breccan. I didn’t like him at first. I thought he was too stalkerish but once we got into the story more and learned more about him, I fell in love with him too. He is very sweet and very hot! I really liked Harper. She is tough and grant it she had to be with what she went through but she is not afraid to tell someone what is on her mind. I like how she really did try to push him away but you cannot stop that Adonis! Their chemistry was hot, and yes you will need to change your panties!!!

I liked the secondary characters too. Nikko, Avery, Brynn, and Ryan. They were all very sweet and they are what both Harper and Brecc really need in their life. I feel like they give sound advice. Keep in mind this ends in a cliffy but it is not a bad one since you know it will pick right back up where it left off. I’m excited that I get to read it some more!!


Story 5
Sex 5++++
Overall 5

Reviewed by Beggin from Mommys a Book Whore
Profile Image for Monica.
158 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2013
For the past ten years Harper has rebuilt her life. She had been abused by her foster father and then she ran away at the age of fifteen and got forced into prostitution. She was further abused in the worst way imaginable. She knew if she left she would be killed. Living that life for 5 more years and having the shit beat out of you and raped even more has left Harper dead. She is just living knowing that this is it for her.

Her savior Nikko finds her. Nikko had been looking for Harper for a long time. He gets her out of that life and gives her her inheritance that she knew nothing about.

Nikko becomes a father figure to Harper and helps her get back on her feet and covers up her past. There are still people out there that could harm her. Harper has a very successful business and is a little bit of a shoe whore. She has a great staff and two best friends Brynn and Avery. Harper is content with her life and knows that she deserves nothing more.

Breccan Caldwell walks into her bar one day and throws her off her feet. She is taken by this Adonis. He is beautiful caring and just too good for her. She does not deserve any of it. She has moved on from her past but knows that true happiness is not in the cards for her. You don't get that once you lived the life that she has.

I love Breccan, he is sometimes not so patient with Harper but he tries to show her that she is worthy of being loved and having someone in her life. He knows that she is broken but he will make her happy. They both fall in love yet neither will say it. They each have there reasons Harper does not think she deserves it and Breccan knows she is not ready to hear it.

(QUOTE) "Dove". Breccan whispers. "You are the most beautiful creature to ever my life. Your soul. God, it's almost like I can feel it touching mine.

I am very torn over this book. Harper finally becomes happy and meets his family and she loves him even more as they accept her. She feels the love but has a hard time accept that he loves her and she is deserving.

In the end Harper knows that she can not give him a future. Its to dangerous she loves him but must protect him from those that can come back and hurt her. They could possibly hurt him and she would never recover from that.

I loved this book I can not wait for the next one. My heart broke a little over the ending but I just know it will get better. So to those that don't like cliffhangers, get over it and read this book anyways.
Profile Image for Renee W. Tyler,  Battery Operated Book Blog.
290 reviews3 followers
June 25, 2014
Meeting Harper Reagan in the beginning of this book was heart wrenching to say the least. To be put through everything that she was, was just laying it all out right from the start. To say the least to be the person that she became was more that what most people can survive and over come.

Harper has been dealt a crap hand as a small child, then had her world shifted and turned even worse upside down as a teen all for trying to better herself. To have endured the pain, suffering, and emotional blows that she did at such an early age is unbelievable. He saving grace and "Angel" Nikko helped to pull her away from the so called gates of hell, and helped her to rise above the damages that has happened to her. Harper has her home and bar and loves what she does with her whole entire being. But, the worst part for her is the constant state of fear that she continues to live in.

One day, when she does not expect it, the man of her future enters into her bar. He is so taken by her that he vows to himself to make it his goal to find out who the mysterious woman refusing to give him her name is. As day after day goes by and the more he tries to approach her the more she tries to escape him. Harper does not know who the incredible sexy man that entered into her bar one day actually was, but eventually was informed by her best friends Avery and Brynn that he is none other than Breccan Caldwell, the rich and famous most eligible bachelor in town. This being what it is makes Harper afraid of him even more due to her past.

This book took me on an emotional roller coaster. Did I enjoy most definitely. The story was well written and keeps you right on track with Harper and Breccan's budding relationship. I loved the snappy remarks that Harper comes up with, as well as the banter between her and her friends. I found myself wanting her to be able to deal and come to terms with her demons so that she could allow herself to try and find happiness. The patience of Breccan is amazing and you can just feel the emotions that he has for Harper even though he really doesn't know much about her, because she keeps everything bottled up inside. My one complaint is that if you start reading this book make sure that you have book to read to start right after because it will end abruptly leaving you wanting more.... now with that being said... follow me into Book 2 Ascending Darkness.
Profile Image for Ashley Christin.
Author 6 books116 followers
August 20, 2013

“Darkness scares us. We yearn for the comfort of light. As it provides shape and form. Allowing us to recognize, To define what’s before us. But what is it we’re afraid of really? Not the darkness itself. But the truth we know, That hides within.” ~ Emily Thorne, Revenge


I loooove that Jessica used the quote from Revenge to start this book out, I feel like it sets the reader up perfectly.
Harper is a former prostitute who was rescued by Nikko who had been looking for her for years. Now she owns a bar Ricominciare. Which is Italian for Begin Again. I love the meaning behind this bar and what she has written on the doors "Today forget your past, forgive yourself and begin again. -Unknown" Then below that "And if you can't....Drink up." Harper has herself in her own little shell of darkness. She knows what she can dream of and what she can't. Brecc does not fit into her dark shadow.
I don’t know what it is, but I know it would never work with Breccan and it breaks my black heart a bit to know that I can never have that kind of complete bliss in my life. - Harper

Brecc will not give up though, he knows that she has been through something that he can't even imagine and he is set to get it out of her. He pushes and pushes but Harper will not budge.

My scars are just that. Mine. They’re mine to bear and no one else’s. You don’t go through what I did and not pay a price. These are my price to pay.”- Harper

Harper lets her past consume and define her but Brecc is slowly breaking down her walls, but that doesn't mean he doesn't piss her off in the process.

“Fuck me Breccan Caldwell. Hard and rough. Don’t stop until I’m no longer ready to murder you.”- Harper

Harper is a very strong woman, no doubt but she is also very broken. All anyone sees of her now is her beauty when she only feels like a shell. But, after you go through the things Harper has it would be hard to feel any different. There is a cliff but, we get to see inside Brecc's head for the final chapter.
I really enjoyed this book of Jessica's and will be standing by for book two :)



Profile Image for Babel.
2,344 reviews196 followers
July 9, 2014
Oh, the darkness it brings about! Once again, we are privy to some disturbing episodes from Harper's past, and let me tell you that the present is not going to be a piece of cake either.

First reviewed on http://sede-literaria.blogspot.com

What I don't understand is why she won't run away from the shocking danger she found herself in at the end of book one. At least, she should have changed her routines to help avoid what's coming for her, but she doesn't change a thing. Weird.

Instead, she spirals into a well of despair. Eventually, her friends come to the rescue even against her will. They show amazing support. That was so encouraging.

After a frustrating amount of heartbreak, Harper is confronted with the chance of a lifetime. She starts telling Breccan the truth about her past. I felt her hope mingled with sheer terror at being rejected. I think the author did a good job there expressing Harper's love, fear and vulnerability.

Among hotter-than-coals sex scenes, there are pretty dramatic declarations. About the ugly truth, and about feelings. That takes this couple to the next level, tightening bonds that are stronger and deeper than ever. However, their idyllic reconciliation is put in jeopardy by Harper's enemies making a bloody reappearance.

In this second novel, the romantic relationship suffers a big blow but also rises triumphant. They really delve deep into their feelings for each other. It's amazing how they open up their hearts and their lives to accept each other unreservedly. And even though Harper suffers a lot, it's also a means to get rid of her inner demons once and for all.

One thing I really appreciated was the fact that there was a positive consequence for all the horror Harper has endured. I liked it a lot how she gives back something good after her experience.

All in all, these novels are fun to read thanks to the sex-fest, and the all-powerful love against the darkest of pains theme.
Profile Image for Falling In Fall Book Blog.
379 reviews66 followers
July 10, 2014
I rate the Shattering The Darkness series FOUR AND ONE HALF LEAVES!

Let me just start by saying Author Jessica Spoon knows how to write dark romance. The backstory of the characters and the emotions they evoke are so pure and realistic.

Harper is a gorgeous, but tortured soul. She has survived the unimaginable, built a beautiful life, and prepared for any darkness that might reappear in her future. The one thing she didn't prepare for was Breccan.

In my mind, Breccan is like a modern-day Thor. He is handsome, successful, family-oriented, and has a body of steel. Above all that, he is Harper's hero. He saves her in ways she never knew needed saved. His love for Harper is unconditional and everlasting.

Because Harper is extremely strong willed and stubborn, she can be a bit aggravating when it comes to decisions about Breccan. I think we all get to this point in stories where we start to hate the female lead, because she is creating unnecessary drama. Then you think about how she grew up, and you learn to understand and respect her for trying to protect herself and her loved ones.

The dream/flashback scenes of this story will haunt you. Harper was tricked into a dangerous lifestyle and abused in so many ways. She is a true survivor. She still struggles with her past, but continues to move forward.

I highly recommend this series. The love and steamy scenes pour from these novels, but so will your tears. It can be difficult to read during the dream/flashback scenes, but the characters and the storyline keep you turning the page.

A gifted copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review by Ashton.
Profile Image for Steph Schiefer.
1 review
July 1, 2014
When I first read Darkness Deserved I was completely hooked and left craving more Harper and Breccan.

I was so thrilled to be able to read and review Ascending Darkness. It is a shockingly wonderful end to this series. I loved every word.

We pick up where Darkness Deserves left off.. Right after their breakup. Harper is understandably miserable, justifying the break up as trying to protect Breccan from her past. Nikko, Brynn and Avery have come up with a plan that will bring Harper out of her funk. In a series of devastating events, Harper starts to think her past has caught up to her. Threatening to shatter everything she’s worked so hard to have. Will Breccan be able to step up to be who she needs, and will she be able to let him in?

The first book has so much emotion that I found myself tearing up through most of the book. It is so well written and has an original story line – which is always refreshing.

Harper is so strong, she has been through so much in her life. I’m sure if I went through what she did. It would have broken me. But she came out strong and independent. She did let the past run her dating life. But given what happened, I think I would have too.

Breccan seems like he’s too good to be true at first. But after learning of Harper’s past he stays and he doesn’t let it affect what they have now. He is the perfect boyfriend, loving and very attentive. Not caring what she needs or doesn’t know she needs and being able to provide that for her. Some guys should take notes!!

Definite one click must!!!
Profile Image for Babus.
217 reviews11 followers
August 18, 2013
I was sent Darkness Deserved as an ARC to review as part of the launch. This is Jessica Spoon's debut novel. It is the story of Harper, a former prostitute who has been rescued from the life and turned herself into a successful business owner. She meets Breccan, a very successful and rich man who sweeps her off her feet. Harper continues to be haunted by her past, through nightmares and the fear of being found so she is hesitant to pursue a relationship with someone so famous. Breccan wins her over but she continues to closely guard her past from him, believing that she is protecting him from those who may want to harm her.

The book explores this relationship, as well as Harper's ways of dealing with her past. I found this story engaging and I was drawn to Harper. I was cheering for her to allow herself to trust others in a way she never had before. There were a few times I was crying with her. There were other times when I was annoyed with her, especially with her preoccupation with material things, especially shoes and clothes. I was annoyed by her constant evaluation of other's attire. But, I can also understand how her past influences this.

This book ends in somewhat of a cliffhanger. I sincerely hope that the author has another book planned and that it will come out soon. I recommend that you check this book out for the hot sex and the great story line within it. 4 out of 5! {babusbookshelf.blogspot.com}
Profile Image for Delilah.
32 reviews
August 16, 2013
I've read many books about broken girls falling in love with hot, wealthy businessmen. But I must say, Darkness Deserved definitely shines among the bunch.

If you're looking for a book that will make your cheeks turn red and your body all hot and bothered, this book will definitely do the job. You will love Breccan! He is sweet as Romeo and yummy to the max!

I am happy to say that this book actually has a good story. I like how there is a fine balance between storytelling, romance, and erotica. However, there were some parts where I wanted more details. I initially didn't know that this book is part of a series. So that could explain why.

Ms. Spoon does an excellent job of capturing her character's emotions onto readers. There are several flashbacks told throughout the novel. These scenes are SUPER SUPER INTENSE AND RAW. I found myself skipping the scenes because they were just too much for me. But of course, I eventually ended up going back to read them. The scenes depicted are terrible, horrible, and traumatic. I felt like crying or throwing up after each flashback. I know she is happy in the present, but no wonder Harper's past still haunts her!

4-4.5 stars! I will definitely be reading the following books in the series.
Profile Image for Laura Smith.
603 reviews20 followers
September 14, 2014
I've waited weeks and at last it's here. The much anticipated sequel to Darkness Deserved and Jessica, you've cracked it good!!

Holy crap I frigging loved it! Ascending Darkness carries on where it left you in book one. Harper doesn't want the gorgeous Adonis that is Breccan, involved with any of her past but finally decides to open up to him honestly about the past she has tried to keep hidden. She tells him every brutal and horrific part of what she went through. Unfortunately her past is about to meet her present so Harper must as well open up to her close friends in order to keep them safe and not ruin her future.

This book is frigging fantastic and I loved the ending where you meet other characters, some of you may already know. This worked perfectly in the story. Oh and don't even get me started on the sex scenes! Phoar these are smoking hot! And I'm surprised Harper could walk!

I laughed, I squealed, I gasped, I OMFG'ed and I cried and then I cried some more. Jessica certainly pulls at your heart. I finished the book in one day and I didn't want it to end.

A totally 100% well worthy 5 stars.
Profile Image for Lauren.
604 reviews48 followers
June 4, 2015



I’m just going to warn everyone upfront.. if you can’t handle very intense abuse situations… just walk away now. Darkness Deserved is a fucked up emotional rollercoaster ride of pain, hurt, and peace. Your heart will shatter in a million tiny pieces when you discover just how fucked up Harper’s life really was back then. She’s so battered and bruised from her former lifestyle that she doesn’t even recognize a good man in front of her. Brecc is a rich man who only has eyes for his Dove. *I need to know what that means Jessica!!!!!* This book is a mind fuck that will leave you breathless and a shattered mess as the story concludes. There so many questions left unanswered yet so much hope that you have for a HEA down the road in later books. Pick up a box of tissues, pints of Ben and Jerry’s and prepare for the biggest ugly cry of your life.
Profile Image for Hooked On Books.
1,887 reviews65 followers
August 29, 2013

Turn on the heat!

I absolutely loved this book and can't wait for the next instalment!

OMG Harper is so tortured by her horrendous past and who can blame her. It's amazing that she's able to turn her life around and even to love her friends. Amazing!

Breccan is so full of his love for Harper and he has a heart of gold and is very giving. I liked him because he is good for her pushing her that little bit but not too much

I found myself waiting for the twist or bomb to be dropped and was disappointed when I found out that there was another book. However, I also found that I wasn't ready to stop reading about Harper's life and how she is going to cope now!

Jessica Spoon's style of writing is intense. I felt like I was Harper throughout the book - like I could feel her pain. Loved it!

I would give this book 5 stars, it has drama, romance, sexy and intrigue. Fantastic read!


Enjoy!!
Profile Image for Melissa Miller-Mattern.
600 reviews11 followers
October 3, 2013
Where the hell did this come from???

Wow! When is the next book coming out Ms. Spoon? I absolutely fell in love with this book and the characters. The book is not for the fair of heart due to the vivid, detailed flashbacks of Harper’s prostitution life but helps to make the reader fall even more in love with for what she has overcome. But back to the wow…Breccan, a true sexy alpha-male is HOTT. Harper isn’t some meek little female, she’s a pretty bad b*tch too as Breccan found out after an encounter with a former girlfriend. Breccan’s pet name for Harper, I won’t give it away but one word-swoon! The sexual chemistry between Harper and Brecc off the charts which lead to amazing sex scenes. I don’t want to ruin the book for you but if you don’t read it, you are truly missing out. This book if freaking outstanding; I highly recommend it and will be waiting with bated-breath for books two and three.
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