I'm the storm on the horizon, and he's my beacon in the darkness. - Kai Tremblay
I wear the skin of a confident man. My tongue is like lightning. My smile can melt hearts. But no amount of tattoos can hide all the bruises. And no number of women will ever be enough to cover the abuse and neglect that led me here. I'll always be tainted...
Then he lands on my doorstep in a flurry of freckles and long blond hair, with piercing green eyes that see right through me.
In the endless darkness, he's a lighthouse of hope.
Confused, he's drawn to me in ways he doesn't understand. So I push, and tease, growing more confident with each of his flustered looks until every touch and glance is a game of who will break first. But I can't drag him under with me. So I try to resist, denying us both.
But he insists; listening when I'm not speaking. Asking when I have nothing more to say.
It's too late, now. Infatuation has become obsession. I need to have him. To feed off his happiness. To live in his light.
Kai is the first guy Jesse has ever been attracted to and he can't figure out why. Kai knows Jesse wants him. There is a ton of flirting, hungering and wanting going on as these two fight through their insecurities and pasts to find each other. This book is delicious with two hot guys, lots of dirty talk, possessive feelings and some degradation thrown in. I loved this book more than the first with these guys perfect for each other. Kai shows Jesse what it is to be the most popular and charming guy in the room, the one everybody wants. Jesse shows Kai what it is to be intensely loved, supported and meant for each other. It's the best kind of show and tell.
After reading book 1 and getting little glimpses of Jesse and Kai I was really excited to read their book. And it did not disappoint.
We got to know the boys more and learn their backstories and Kai, he has a lot of trauma. I really liked how Jesse helped him overcome his trauma and how much of a safe space he was for Kai. I loved how natural it all felt. Their dynamic is ever changing and I really liked their give and take. I loved how smitten they were with each other from the start, and the tension at the beginning was very good. Jesse and Kai will both be on my list of favorite characters. I also really loved when they told each other what to wear when they were going out. And they are truly hot together and that van has seen things.
Loved the banter between the main characters and between them and their friend group.
Can't wait to come back to Vistas Resort and read about the next couple.
This book begins on quite a dark note, gripping you from the moment you start right through each and every page till the very end.
A beautiful yet tragic tale, heartbreaking and deeply emotional. A tail of broken trust and abuse leading ultimately to an unexpected found love.
Kai, has been mistreated and abused… truly traumatic, he believes himself unlovable and unable to form any meaningful relationships. A broken, deeply flawed and strongly emotional character. I absolutely love Kai and felt intensely protective of him.
Jesse, born into Royalty, but feels disconnected! An amazing character and after meeting Kai, discovers himself in unexpected ways.
J.J. Asher is an incredible talent. An awe inspiring and authentic writer who writes from the heart.
This is a beautifully constructed narrative, uniquely divine, heartbreaking, heartwarming and deeply emotional, raw and gritty. It is intensely emotional and a challenging storyline.
A book you will not want to put down…
Loved these characters so much!
Quotes:
"I accept my story is being rewritten by an inked god in excessively baggy cords and black Chuck Taylors, and I'm pretty sure l'd follow him anywhere."
"You're lucky your so pretty, cause I don't tend to waste my time on dumb ones"
Something So Strong is an emotionally dark romance about Kai and Jesse that has: ✨Double bi-awakening ✨Forced Proximity ✨Fight for dominance
“I accept my story is being rewritten by an inked god in excessively baggy cords and black Chuck Taylors, and I’m pretty sure I’d follow him anywhere.”
I don’t know what magic J.J Asher put into the book but I was addicted as soon as I started reading Something So Strong.
There is something about the author’s writing that is intriguing and unique.
I loved all the characters in this book and I adored Kai and Jesse. We have Kai who had a really traumatic past. Something horrible happened to him and we see him go through his trauma. I loved Jesse as a character. He was an interesting character who is rich and was born into royalty. He always felt like he was a supporting character in his life with his best friends Romeo and Saxon. They move to Viastas where he meets Kai who puts on a facade of confidence and mysterious that had all the girls loving him. Their relationship is intense. They played a game of push and pull trying to see who would break first.
This book is gritty and raw and talks about heavy topics that are graphic so please make sure to check out the trigger warnings before reading.
The story and characters was so well flushed out and you really grow to love the found family in this book.
Thank you so much to J.J Asher for sending me this ARC.
4.5 Stars. I read this right after reading the first book in the series and it did not disappoint. This book explores two of the side characters from the first book, Battle Scars. While I was reading Battle Scars, I wanted to know more and more about Kai and Jesse. This book tells the story of their relationship, their journey.
After reading two of her books, I now know that J.J. Asher will come straight for my heart from the beginning of the book and will take you on a roller coaster ride until the very end. This could be classified as a dark romance, but it is more of a story that deals with the not so pretty side of a traumatic event and how it shapes the person that has endured.
Starting with the Prologue, the reader develops a strong connect with Kai. You understand the life he has been living and how everything he does, including his interactions with Jesse, are shaped by his past. It is easy to become emotionally involved with Jesse and Kai. I was pulled into the story and wanted to see how it developed.
Something So Strong was a powerful, emotional, rip out your heart and stomp on it before placing it back in your chest story. I would definitely recommend this story if you really want to feel while reading. Also, the spice in the book is just right 🥵. It isn’t a simple read but it is worth it. Check the trigger warnings before diving in because it does touch on some sensitive subjects.
Something So Strong by J.J Asher is an intoxicating journey through a world where inner demons and unexpected connections collide. From the very first page, readers are drawn into a story that is as captivating as it is intense.
The protagonist, Kai Tremblay, is a character of remarkable depth. Despite his outward confidence and charm, he is haunted by past abuse and neglect. His journey is marked by the unexpected arrival of a stranger with freckles, long blond hair, and piercing green eyes. This new presence becomes a beacon of hope in Kai's life, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the narrative.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is the dynamic interplay between Kai and the mysterious stranger. Each character is meticulously developed, with unique personalities and backstories that enrich the story. The chemistry between them is electric, making the romantic and emotional elements of the book especially compelling.
Asher's writing is both evocative and immersive, painting vivid scenes that bring the characters and their struggles to life. The pacing is masterful, with each chapter building tension and deepening the plot, leading to a climax that leaves readers craving more.
Despite the intensity, the book also explores themes of resilience, hope, and self-discovery. Kai's struggle to accept love and his journey towards healing are portrayed with sensitivity and insight, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
In conclusion, Something So Strong is a beautifully crafted novel that offers a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and emotional growth. J.J Asher has created a world and characters that are unforgettable. If you’re looking for a story that will sweep you off your feet and leave you yearning for more, this is a must-read.
I’m in loveeeee with Jesse and Kai’s Chemistry. I really feel for Kai, he’s been through so much in his life. He’s definitely my favorite character & I’m so happy he met Jesse & was able to finally be himself.
Then the found family aspect between Jesse, Romeo and Saxon I love. To have bestfriends that long and able to be close and they support you through anything and everything.
This was a great read, my first MM romance and it was absolutely adorable , heartbreaking and I just couldn’t stop reading, & boyyyy does Jesse and Kai get freaky 😂
If you’re into Workplace romance, Mm romance, bisexual awakening & more check this book out. It’s available on KU
I loved this book! After reading Battle Scars I was so excited for Kai and Jesse's story and it did not disappoint! Both these characters were so real and relatable and I loved that about this story! Kai and Jesse come from two very different backgrounds and I liked seeing how they overcame that in their relationship throughout the story. I love how all of these characters' worlds all connect, and I cannot wait for Romeo and Kendall's book next! I definitely recommend this series!
This book smacked me in the feels right at chapter one and had me wrapped around it's finger from then on. I fell I love with all of these characters and can't wait for more. Seeing Kai and Jesse come together and grow was wonderful. Be sure to read the tws at the beginning. This book was absolutely as beautiful as it was filthy
JJ Asher brought it with this one! The emotional depths she showed in Kai and Jesse were all consuming! Tons of flirting and banter. Plenty of spicy moments in secret. The spice was on point when it started! The MM dynamics portrayed in this were really well done.
Book two in the British Invasion series. Omg, omg I loved it. Kai is a broken soul. He did not have a good past. That’s why he is the way he is. Jesse comes from different upbringing. The way he heals Kai from his past is amazing. They both fight this strong feeling for each other. Dark romance at its best. New author. Amazing story line.
Well one thing is for certain and that is that this author does NOT disappoint 🥵🔥
I got addicted to the story instantly and i just coudnt put it down once i started it!
I just love the way everything is written like the two MC POV’s, it brings out so much more things in such a clear way, it was just a very clean and detailed written book! The way the feelings of the characters were portrayed just made me connect to them in such a higher level Also i loooovedd the character art on each chapter it was so stunning and it fitten so well!
It has ⛓️MM Romance ⛓️trauma healing ⛓️lot of steamy action 😏 ⛓️coworkers ⛓️Inked MC
in general it was just a really well written book and i can’t wait to see what book three will bring me! 😍
JJ has such an ability to make you feel so strongly for each of her characters. This was my first book of this kind and I loved it so much. I'd recommend her to everyone.
This book, these characters, this author! I have been waiting for the second in series for a while and this didn’t disappoint. The push and pull of these men was exactly what made this book so special. They call it a bi-awakening but I’d say it’s a Gay-For -only -you. Seeing these two build up on their sexual tension knowing maybe it’s not what they should want, especially with them both dealing with dark secrets and issues that somehow only they can help over come. I have loved the group the found family elements and the entire emotional rollercoaster that Jordan has taken me in so far!
I could not put this one down! I was like fuck daily tasks, I’m fully booked and busy!!
I loved Jesse & Kai so much!! I wish their story was longer 😁
Take the plunge and dive in!!
“You’re it for me… That… That pretty face. Those gorgeous freckles…” He draws in a shaky breath, and his eyes almost roll back in his head. “Fuck,” he shudders. “You fucking own me, Jesse...”
Please be advised there might be triggering scenes for some. ⚠️
Kai and Jesse a double awakening of two “notorious playas’” where do I start? This story was better than the first but I rate them both equally because both are so well written. Flawed characters trying to rebuild themselves, fighting for each other in the most beautiful way possible.
“Kai is mine. He belonged to me the second our lips touched. It hasn’t been a game since then because he’s not something I’m prepared to lose” I’m in awe at this book you guys! It’s giving found family, double bi-awakening, hurt/comfort, insta obsession, rich boy/ poor boy, forced proximity, mental health rep, “MINE”, broken boy/golden retriever, & NO 3RD ACT BREAKUP! I’m in absolute love with Jesse & Kai! These two captured my heart in a way that no other book couple ever has. I loved their relationship from the very beginning to very end of the book. They have a push and pull dynamic that made their love story angsty & hot. But they also have some really heavy and heartbreaking things to face. Kai has been through things that no one should ever have to go through. Things that have broken him in a way that he’s still dealing with when Jesse comes into his life. They both have to navigate the confusion that they’re facing because of the feelings they have for each other. But despite the confusion, Jesse meets Kai where he’s at & wants to be his safe space. I loved how Jesse would do ANYTHING to protect Kai, (because Kai must be protected at all costs!! That’s my baby!) and help him to put himself back together again. They are just everything together! And the sẽxuâł energy between them will have you panting, fanning yourself, and melting all at the same time. When i say the spice in this book is top tier spice, I freaking MEAN IT!! These two are so hot for each other they might as well be on fire! If I didn’t combust at their flirtation with each other, I dămn sure did when it came for them to finally give in to each other! Like I said, they are EVERYTHING, their story is everything, and this book is everything! You would be doing yourself a disservice by not reading this book. This one felt like it changed my brain chemistry in the best way possible and I can’t tell you guys enough to go read it. I will forever rec this book to anyone who will listen!
JJ Asher is an artist! She creates these beautifully shattered mirror characters that find their perfect other half that see them whole and beautiful. Then together these partners break through their trauma and hep them be at peace with themselves.
Kai has trauma that no person should ever have to face or survive but he buries it beneath his flirting banter and meaningless sex. Then comes Jesse his Pretty Boy and the one that makes him want to leave the darkness and seek Jesse’s light.
Can Kai escape his terror and live in the light with Jesse?
(Disclaimer: I have no desire to bash the book or the author at all. Genuinely.)
The first part (up until 70%ish) was…fine? It very much felt like we were dropped into the center of a universe that requires previous reads. This is absolutely not a standalone.
Between part 1 and part 2 is a month where SO much stuff happens but we are not told. We are given vague references that only make sense had you read the first book. A prominent side character straight up vanishes with another character and we aren’t given any hint of an explanation but they talk about it all the time. Most of the second part felt like listening to a group of friends talk about an inside secret. You could probably pick up the gist of it, but it would be better if someone explained it.
From the jump, it feels like you’re missing so much. The background of any of the side characters and how they interact with the MC is entirely left up to the reader to infer. AND once you guess, the rules change and new info is added.
I was lost for a cumulative 40%. I nearly DNFd at 85% because it just quit making sense and I stopped caring. It was a struggle to pick it back up every time I had to stop and do something.
The best part, I 100% believe the author when they say that these two weren’t supposed to get a book. It’s written as stereotypical as you can make an MM bi awakening. The only reason I stuck it through was because their ACTUAL relationship was good. Jesse and Kia alone were great, but that’s unfortunately where it ends.
I am not one to trash books and I don’t think that this is a “BAD” book at all. I just think that this is a book that NEEDs to be read in order which is unfortunate since most MM readers I know don’t read MF and won’t read the first book. If the plot holes were filled, this would be a 4 star easily. 😔😔
Jesse is a rich guy from British royalty, that comes to Canada with his two best friends to work at a resort, when his friend Saxon has some issues. (Saxon’s story is book 1), there he meets Kai. Kai has a lot of issues and the prologue starts us off with what Kai has been through, SA, assault, child abuse, it’s harsh and horrible and Kai has amazing strength to have survived what he did. Jesse and Kai are drawn together, even though they both identify as straight. This story deals with some heavy topics. Jesse and Kai are beautiful together. Kai is so broken but the healing that comes with his relationship is wonderful. There are some things I didn’t like with this story, it could have easily been a stand alone but I wouldn’t say it is because Saxon and Andy’s story happens first and there are events that happen in that story that are brought up in this one but they are just talked about like we know what happened, like several fights, like Saxon’s trial. But really those parts have no true effect on Jesse and Kai’s story, but they leave holes and jump a bit in time without explanation. Characters that are never mentioned in this story, appear suddenly like we should know them, because they were introduced in certain points of Saxon/Andy’s story. So if you don’t read that one first, side characters won’t make a lot of sense, actions and events won’t make sense. So while you can technically read as a standalone, there will be some confusion that happens halfway through. The book started out on a high note for me, stumbled a little, but finished fairly strong except I didn’t really like the epilogue. I didn’t like the early games Jesse and Kai played, it felt childish and immature. Once these two finally got beyond their games and just gave into their connection, it was a beautiful love story. It was healing. This story would have been better without those games, I really wish the focus had been on the emotional connection and the sexual dynamic they created. In the end, I enjoyed the story but I wasn’t in love with it. But I loved their connection, their love.
This is book 2 in the British Invasion series, though it’s not required but highly recommended to read book 1 first, I’d have to agree. It helps you fill in some gaps and who the characters and a little more into their personalities.
Kai one night dragging himself through his bedroom window after the most traumatic night of his life, the night his life fully changed. Barely conscious then being drug and dumped off the back steps of his own home. He may have had it bad, but the second he could be got out of there and hasn’t looked back. But sadly when he closed his eyes all the fear from that night came flooding back he kept his walls build high, and his attitude rude enough to keep people at bay. That is until he picked up the newest employees for the resort that had become his home over the last 3 years. That is until Jesse Kendrick stepped through those airport doors.
Jesse was born into royalty, which came with its own childhood trauma. Being sent away to boarding school, feeling abandoned at such a young age, the only one he had was his grandfather until he didn’t. But meeting his two best friends at school changed his life for the better, he finally found his family or so he thought. Though Saxon and Romeo would always be his brothers all with their own family trauma. The minute Saxon suggested they all fly to Canada and take a gap year from school there was no hesitation, where one went they all went. Though he’d always been with women, the moment he stepped through those airport doors to come face to face with a blue haired, mouthy, oversized clothes wearing man, he wasn’t quite sure what to think of his feelings. Kai Tremblay was the biggest enigma he’d ever encountered.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
JJ I was excited for this book, I knew I was going to love Kai and Jesse. I didn’t know I was going to like them as much as I did though. My heart for freakin Kai, but Jesse is seriously his perfect other half 100%
Something so Strong is the second book by J.J. Asher in her British Invasion series. It was released July 29th.
General: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫 Spice: 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦
Tropes: 👄 MM 👄 Forced proximity 👄 Found family 👄 Possessive 👄 Touch him and ☠️ 👄 Workplace romance 👄 Double bi-awakening 👄 Serious past trauma 👄 Rich/Poor 👄 Hidden secrets
The story of the second book in this series let me feel the internal struggle of the MCs myself. Can’t wait to continue with the third book.
But first of all, before you start with this book, be sure to check out the TWs, because your mental health always comes first.
J.J. tells us the story of three boys from Great Britain who want to escape their rich life for one year and work at a ski resort in Canada.
This book is about Jesse and Kai, Jesse is a future Lord, but disguises his identity to enjoy the anonymity of a normal life. Kai on the other hand had to deal his whole life with hate, abuse and degradation. J.J. describes this in a way that I could feel the pain by myself. When the both meet the first time, its like nothing exists around them anymore. But this feeling is so confusing for both of them.
The spice in this book is soo exciting - it leaves you hot and bothered and squirming on your couch.
So grab your book now! Link is in my 🔗🌳
Quotes: Fųçk. I'd do it just to see his freckles up close. I bet they'd look even sweeter coated in my çųm. His face flushed. His mouth still open and panting from where I just pulled out of it.
"I'm meant to be taking care of you," he barks and grabs beneath one of my knees for leverage as the other hand wraps around my shąft. "Only I get to make you çome." He leers down at me, pumping my çock and forcing himself deeper.
"God. What the fuck have they done to you?" Jesse grabs the sides of my head and holds me firm. "You are enough, Kai. Just as you are. Just standing here breathing. You chose me, out of everyone you've ever met. Do you have any idea how amazing that makes me feel?”
If you like spicy MM romance, great male main characters I fell in love with them instantly this was my first MM romance ever, and it did not disappoint. I was hooked from the beginning and watching the struggle and attention between the two main characters was amazing. Delicious it kept me intrigued and wanting more.
I love JJ Asher’s books this is only my second one I’ll admit but they keep me interested from the first page! Something strong is an emotional dark romance about kai and Jesse, as usual definitely check the trigger warnings, after reading book 1 (battle scars) where you meet Jesse and Kai I could not wait to see where their story went I was quite excited to get started on something strong! The tension from the start was something else,I love that there is two MC POVS through the whole book, here’s some of the exciting stuff it involves: mm romance, found family,slow burn,double bi awakening,Rich boy/poor boy and more!! Here’s a quote I love: “You’re lucky your so pretty, cause I don’t tend to waste my time on dumb ones”
After reading book one I could not wait for Kai and Jesse’s story and this didn’t disappoint.
This has been ear marked for the bi awakening trope (which I love) but I feel like this is more of a gay for you. Either way it was brilliant and I’m so glad for how it all played out.
This book deals with a lot of heavy topics which understandably can be triggering but I think it was done just right.
Loved everything about this, Kai had a troubled childhood and then spent his time just getting by bedding every girl around. It was definitely an instant draw to Jesse but more than that it was the self discovery that led him to finding his place in the world.
Perfect balance of story to spice. Love love love!
This book offers a dark, raw and emotionally intense story. This is not your typical 'dark romance'. I personally found some parts of this book a little confronting to read - but that’s the point, it tackles real life traumas and pain. If you're seeking a story with emotionally dark and raw aspects, and smut, then this book is a perfect fit for you!
This is book 2 in the British Invasion series and follows Kai and Jesse on their bi-awakening.
This is a M/M romance between Jesse and Kai... Kai is the playboy, the boy next door (or in this case across the hall) and Jesse falls hard. There is so much tension between them throughout this story.. there is trauma, drama and love that keeps you reading! I am team Kai all the way!