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Wounded
Samantha Miller didn't have an easy start. Molested as a child and subsequently forced into prostitution by her drug-addicted mother, Samantha learned at an early age that men were not to be trusted. Being constantly preyed upon taught her to be a predator. Her target was women-specifically, straight or married women. As the headliner at a local strip club, Samantha capitalized on the gifts she was cursed with. In turn, her life quickly spiraled down a dangerous path of violence, seduction, and exploitation. When Sasha is brought on as the new bartender, she becomes Samantha's newest target. The last thing Samantha anticipated was falling in love. When tragedy strikes, what was once a challenge may prove to be her downfall. Can Samantha heal from her abusive past, or will she always be Wounded?
174 pages, Paperback
First published April 17, 2014
7 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Ben Burgess Jr.
10 books214 followersBen Burgess Jr is the author of the award-winning novels "Monster," "Wounded," "Love and Happiness," " A Father's Sacrifice: Daddy's Girl," and the new novel "Defining Moments: Black and White." He is an active performer of spoken word poetry. Ben Burgess Jr uses his love of writing to inspire and influence youths to strive for what they believe in and never give up on their dreams. His novels "Monster" and "Wounded" are used in schools on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Ben Burgess has a BA degree in Business Management and an MA degree in Educational Leadership. He is the proud father of his daughters Jaelynn, Jaclyn, and Jocelyn, and he is active in improving urban neighborhoods and communities. Ben Burgess's dream is to have his novels adapted into major motion pictures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 3, 2016
Powerful Reading! Award Winning Author Ben Burgess Jr. has FIVE eCopies & FIVE Print Copies of MONSTER and LOVE AND HAPPINESS up for grabs!
Click on Banner to Enter! - Intl where allowed
She was a sexual predator. She was finished being the prey and someone was going to pay; sadly, Samantha didn’t realize the one who would pay the most was herself. Wounded by Ben Burgess Jr. is the downward spiral of a young, sexually abused child who grew up to hate men, trust no one and to use her body to control those around her. As a stripper, she had the power to make men give up their money, as a lover, she tolerated men, but drove women wild. She made it her mission to awaken every woman to their lesbian side and sometimes she did her job too well, as they craved her like a drug. For Samantha, it was meaningless; a means to an end, to prove she had the power denied her as a child. She never thought of the pain she caused and what it could do her because she never thought she might fall in love, herself.
For any author to create so much darkness and pain within a character is a gift. For a male author to get inside the head and heart of a female character as damaged as Samantha and bring her to life so completely shows a truly creative sensitivity head and shoulders above many others. Ben Burgess Jr. is bold in his storytelling, never shying away from the grit and the darkness. His writing is erotic in the detail, yet as emotionally twisted as his character Samantha would feel it. Not for those who can look beyond the physical acts to the mental and emotional turmoil, each page can be painful enough to actually feel deep in one’s gut. Is there a true heroine? No, more likely there are several flawed victims, including the one with the greatest flaws, Samantha, a product of her environment and the dignity and self-worth stolen from her as a child. You will walk away from this one with a heavy heart for her past and a prayer she can finally move toward a brighter future. The real story is found between the written words where our own interpretation takes over.
I received this copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: April 17, 2014
Publisher: Ben Burgess Jr.
Genre: Dark Erotic Romance Gay/Lesbian
Print Length: 174 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Click on Banner to Enter! - Intl where allowed
She was a sexual predator. She was finished being the prey and someone was going to pay; sadly, Samantha didn’t realize the one who would pay the most was herself. Wounded by Ben Burgess Jr. is the downward spiral of a young, sexually abused child who grew up to hate men, trust no one and to use her body to control those around her. As a stripper, she had the power to make men give up their money, as a lover, she tolerated men, but drove women wild. She made it her mission to awaken every woman to their lesbian side and sometimes she did her job too well, as they craved her like a drug. For Samantha, it was meaningless; a means to an end, to prove she had the power denied her as a child. She never thought of the pain she caused and what it could do her because she never thought she might fall in love, herself.
For any author to create so much darkness and pain within a character is a gift. For a male author to get inside the head and heart of a female character as damaged as Samantha and bring her to life so completely shows a truly creative sensitivity head and shoulders above many others. Ben Burgess Jr. is bold in his storytelling, never shying away from the grit and the darkness. His writing is erotic in the detail, yet as emotionally twisted as his character Samantha would feel it. Not for those who can look beyond the physical acts to the mental and emotional turmoil, each page can be painful enough to actually feel deep in one’s gut. Is there a true heroine? No, more likely there are several flawed victims, including the one with the greatest flaws, Samantha, a product of her environment and the dignity and self-worth stolen from her as a child. You will walk away from this one with a heavy heart for her past and a prayer she can finally move toward a brighter future. The real story is found between the written words where our own interpretation takes over.
I received this copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: April 17, 2014
Publisher: Ben Burgess Jr.
Genre: Dark Erotic Romance Gay/Lesbian
Print Length: 174 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 5, 2016
Emotional read
This was a very emotional read for me. It had me crying before I could get to the end of it. The title says it all. Sam had a very traumatizing life growing up and it spilled over into adulthood. So naturally she had trust issues. The saying goes that time heals all wounds, but that is not necessarily true in her case. This book will take you through all of her hurt and pain and you might just be like me and shed a few tears. I highly recommend this book. VIP book reviewer
This was a very emotional read for me. It had me crying before I could get to the end of it. The title says it all. Sam had a very traumatizing life growing up and it spilled over into adulthood. So naturally she had trust issues. The saying goes that time heals all wounds, but that is not necessarily true in her case. This book will take you through all of her hurt and pain and you might just be like me and shed a few tears. I highly recommend this book. VIP book reviewer
May 3, 2014
“Love is Patient, Love is Kind.”
Wounded is a standalone novel by Monster Author Ben Burgess Jr., telling the story of Samantha Miller and her journey to leaving behind her tragic past and leading herself into a brighter future.
Samantha is a dancer with a dark past, the only thing giving her life any true meaning the women she took to bed and “turned out.” Haunted by the molestation she endured as a child, Sam refuses to trust anyone other than her friends Silka and Jaime. But when a new bartender at the strip club she works at comes along, her beliefs are shaken.
It starts off as just another conquest, but quickly turns into a love affair that has the potential to break or make Samantha forever.
I have read Author Ben Burgess Jr.’s other novel, Monster, and greatly enjoyed that. When I learned of this book I knew I needed to read it. The true, raw emotion in this novel is awe-inspiring. The author creates such deep characters that you can’t help but fall in love with, flaws and all. I felt a deep connection with Sam, truly weeping for her when things got to be hard for her. She is a complicated character, layered with so much strife and untapped potential that by the end of the book she has brought out in full.
This is a fantastic book, through and through. Fantastic characters, each with their own tale to tell, and a masterfully crafted story of taking tragedy and surviving it. This author is to be applauded, and I definitely plan on keeping up with him and all of his other works.
Wounded is a standalone novel by Monster Author Ben Burgess Jr., telling the story of Samantha Miller and her journey to leaving behind her tragic past and leading herself into a brighter future.
Samantha is a dancer with a dark past, the only thing giving her life any true meaning the women she took to bed and “turned out.” Haunted by the molestation she endured as a child, Sam refuses to trust anyone other than her friends Silka and Jaime. But when a new bartender at the strip club she works at comes along, her beliefs are shaken.
It starts off as just another conquest, but quickly turns into a love affair that has the potential to break or make Samantha forever.
I have read Author Ben Burgess Jr.’s other novel, Monster, and greatly enjoyed that. When I learned of this book I knew I needed to read it. The true, raw emotion in this novel is awe-inspiring. The author creates such deep characters that you can’t help but fall in love with, flaws and all. I felt a deep connection with Sam, truly weeping for her when things got to be hard for her. She is a complicated character, layered with so much strife and untapped potential that by the end of the book she has brought out in full.
This is a fantastic book, through and through. Fantastic characters, each with their own tale to tell, and a masterfully crafted story of taking tragedy and surviving it. This author is to be applauded, and I definitely plan on keeping up with him and all of his other works.
May 19, 2014
"Wounded" addresses some very emotional and deep rooted issues that Sam carries from a tragically abusive childhood into adolescence. With every relationship and action, Sam displays "HELP WANTED" but was so broken she didn't know where to begin asking or how to accept it. As in "Monster".....Ben Burgess Jr. does an awesome job developing relatable characters, complicated relationships and showcasing the healing power of love. By the end, you are sure to be left emotionally drained yet thoroughly satisfied.
"You can accept or reject the way you are treated by other people, but until you heal the wounds of your past, you will continue to bleed". ~ Ben Burgess Jr.
Ebony EyeCU Reading
Approved & Recommended
"You can accept or reject the way you are treated by other people, but until you heal the wounds of your past, you will continue to bleed". ~ Ben Burgess Jr.
Ebony EyeCU Reading
Approved & Recommended
September 22, 2014
Hurt People Hurt People
Started “Wounded” and immediately had an ‘Oh-Lawd-here-we-go-again’ moment. Readers know that moment; that déjà vu feeling when you’re reading the same thing over again. Same storyline. Same characters. In this case, it’s the same storyline of a woman raped/molested in her childhood who grows up to be a man-hating lesbian or a stripper. Readers get two for one with this book. Same character: a green-eyed vixen with a flawless body. *sigh*
Although like so many books today, Ben Burgess does set himself apart with his tale. Going beyond the basic premise, “Wounded” is the journey of one woman, who true to the title is wounded. As the saying goes, “Hurt people hurt people.” And that’s just what Samantha does until she realizes she is actually hurting herself with her actions and behaviors. It takes a lot for her to get to the realization but readers ride shot gun on that journey. The writing takes us into the heart and mind of Samantha. I applaud Burgess for being able to so effectively write from the point of view of a woman. The interaction between the main character and others easily holds readers’ attention.
The end resolved too simply, too neatly. There are quirks in the editing. I urge the author find an editor who has a good understanding of punctuation in connection with quotation marks.
Reviewed by: Toni
3.5 stars
Started “Wounded” and immediately had an ‘Oh-Lawd-here-we-go-again’ moment. Readers know that moment; that déjà vu feeling when you’re reading the same thing over again. Same storyline. Same characters. In this case, it’s the same storyline of a woman raped/molested in her childhood who grows up to be a man-hating lesbian or a stripper. Readers get two for one with this book. Same character: a green-eyed vixen with a flawless body. *sigh*
Although like so many books today, Ben Burgess does set himself apart with his tale. Going beyond the basic premise, “Wounded” is the journey of one woman, who true to the title is wounded. As the saying goes, “Hurt people hurt people.” And that’s just what Samantha does until she realizes she is actually hurting herself with her actions and behaviors. It takes a lot for her to get to the realization but readers ride shot gun on that journey. The writing takes us into the heart and mind of Samantha. I applaud Burgess for being able to so effectively write from the point of view of a woman. The interaction between the main character and others easily holds readers’ attention.
The end resolved too simply, too neatly. There are quirks in the editing. I urge the author find an editor who has a good understanding of punctuation in connection with quotation marks.
Reviewed by: Toni
3.5 stars
May 1, 2014
Where do I start? This was another awesome read by Ben Burgess Jr. He has done it once again. This book Wounded was phenomenal. It was about a women name Sam who never heals from her trouble childhood. She had been through so much that she ran away from foster homes and had to make it on her own. Being that she never healed from her past affected her relationships.
Why was it hard for Sam to be in a committed relationship?
Did same really know who she was?
This book will have you emotional; you can just feel what the characters were going through
No matter who you love, love is love. It’s also show how people feel when they been rejected by whom they love the most.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more of this author work? Yes
Sistah on Lit!
Why was it hard for Sam to be in a committed relationship?
Did same really know who she was?
This book will have you emotional; you can just feel what the characters were going through
No matter who you love, love is love. It’s also show how people feel when they been rejected by whom they love the most.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more of this author work? Yes
Sistah on Lit!
February 25, 2015
In the very beginning of the novel I was introduced to a lesbian (Samantha Miller) who enjoyed conquering "straight" women as a hobby. I went on to sympathize with her because if her dark, troubled and traumatic past. I saw that it ultimately bred led to her behavior. Her best friends are her only family.
You go through a multitude of emotional ecstasy in this book as sex, relationships, religion, sexual preferences, and even death is explored. This author makes this a treat to read with explicit, raw, uninhibited topics. I would definitely read it over and over again!
Majesti Burroughs
AAMBC Reviewer
You go through a multitude of emotional ecstasy in this book as sex, relationships, religion, sexual preferences, and even death is explored. This author makes this a treat to read with explicit, raw, uninhibited topics. I would definitely read it over and over again!
Majesti Burroughs
AAMBC Reviewer
April 28, 2014
I enjoyed this book. Sam in my opinion was selfish. I think things would have turned out differently had she let Sasha become a little stronger. I had several moments when I stopped reading to fuss out loud about this book.
May 5, 2014
this book will take you on a rollercoaster ride. this book was phenomenal.
May 18, 2014
Excellent Read! Definetly kept my attention. Life lessons, love, betrayal and the desire to belong....all wrapped up in one story. A 5 Star page turner.
January 8, 2018
I found a new male author to read. This is my second book by this author and I liked it. Good story if you can stomach the sexual abuse storyline.
September 4, 2014
I am reviewing this book for the Book Tour that is being promoted by Elite Book Promotions.
Wounded, by Ben Burgess Jr is in the Gay & Lesbian genre. When I first started reading it I was left reeling by the protagonist's flashbacks. After my initial shock I got back to business and read the book until I had finished it. I literally uttered the word "wow" when I was done. This book was very powerful and moving.
The protagonist, Samantha Miller, loves nothing more than to "turn straight women out". Sam is gay and she is not ashamed of her sexuality. She trawls bars and clubs looking for "hot women" who are on the "cusp". She has a deep rooted mistrust and hatred of men, stemming from the abuse she suffered at the hands of paedophiles when her own mother pimped her out in exchange for a fix of heroin. After her mother died she relied on her body in order to survive, she sold herself to men for money. She was arrested and taken into care at the age of 14, but that did not keep her out of trouble. At 17 she was jailed on drug charges and once again found herself being abused by men - this time the male prison wardens.
Sam had always known she was gay but she had never been with a woman. Eventually, another inmate, Cheryl, teaches her the art of lovemaking. Upon her release from prison Sam vows to never let anyone " fuck her over again". She gets a job as a stripper and starts to build her ow photography business. But she has never settled down, much preferring her own predatory behavior towards women.
Until she meets Sasha.
Sasha isn't gay, but Sam is convinced she can turn her. Sasha's wariness means that Sam has to use a different tactic and she befriends her. They grow very close, with Sam being the person Sasha turns to when she splits with her boyfriend.
Eventually Sam wins Sasha over and the two become involved, but Sasha isn't ready to come out of the closet. Sam thinks it will only be a matter of time before Sasha comes out so is quite happy with their life together at first. Eventually, Sam grows weary of Sasha dragging her heels on the whole coming out thing and ends up outing her in front of her college buddies. Sasha is petrified her very religious family will find out about her sexuality and again drags her heels over telling them. When she does eventually tell them they disown her. This hurts her so much that she becomes very distant with Sam. Sam hates this and ends up cheating on Sasha. Sasha finds them and she flees to her family home looking for forgiveness and solace. But her family still shun her and hours later, a brokenhearted and dejected Sasha overdoses. She is unable to be saved and this tragedy sends Sam spiraling out of control once more.
Sam is her own worst enemy but you have to feel for her. She is so messed up, and who can blame her with the abuse she has suffered, repeatedly? She has gotten so used to looking out for number one that she finds it hard to be there in the capacity that Sasha needs her to be. After Sasha's death Sam blames herself and reverts back to her predatory ways, but help is at hand and she does sort her life out.
This story is very powerful. As you read it you experience Sam's emotional trauma and you feel for her. The issues that this book deal with are extremely upsetting and the raw emotion that gets stirred up leaves you quite emotional. It is a well written, thought provoking book. I really did not expect to enjoy it all, but I have to admit that I really did.
A read that takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and really gets you thinking about the impact sexual abuse has on the lives of the victims.
Highly recommended.
***** 5 stars.
Wounded, by Ben Burgess Jr is in the Gay & Lesbian genre. When I first started reading it I was left reeling by the protagonist's flashbacks. After my initial shock I got back to business and read the book until I had finished it. I literally uttered the word "wow" when I was done. This book was very powerful and moving.
The protagonist, Samantha Miller, loves nothing more than to "turn straight women out". Sam is gay and she is not ashamed of her sexuality. She trawls bars and clubs looking for "hot women" who are on the "cusp". She has a deep rooted mistrust and hatred of men, stemming from the abuse she suffered at the hands of paedophiles when her own mother pimped her out in exchange for a fix of heroin. After her mother died she relied on her body in order to survive, she sold herself to men for money. She was arrested and taken into care at the age of 14, but that did not keep her out of trouble. At 17 she was jailed on drug charges and once again found herself being abused by men - this time the male prison wardens.
Sam had always known she was gay but she had never been with a woman. Eventually, another inmate, Cheryl, teaches her the art of lovemaking. Upon her release from prison Sam vows to never let anyone " fuck her over again". She gets a job as a stripper and starts to build her ow photography business. But she has never settled down, much preferring her own predatory behavior towards women.
Until she meets Sasha.
Sasha isn't gay, but Sam is convinced she can turn her. Sasha's wariness means that Sam has to use a different tactic and she befriends her. They grow very close, with Sam being the person Sasha turns to when she splits with her boyfriend.
Eventually Sam wins Sasha over and the two become involved, but Sasha isn't ready to come out of the closet. Sam thinks it will only be a matter of time before Sasha comes out so is quite happy with their life together at first. Eventually, Sam grows weary of Sasha dragging her heels on the whole coming out thing and ends up outing her in front of her college buddies. Sasha is petrified her very religious family will find out about her sexuality and again drags her heels over telling them. When she does eventually tell them they disown her. This hurts her so much that she becomes very distant with Sam. Sam hates this and ends up cheating on Sasha. Sasha finds them and she flees to her family home looking for forgiveness and solace. But her family still shun her and hours later, a brokenhearted and dejected Sasha overdoses. She is unable to be saved and this tragedy sends Sam spiraling out of control once more.
Sam is her own worst enemy but you have to feel for her. She is so messed up, and who can blame her with the abuse she has suffered, repeatedly? She has gotten so used to looking out for number one that she finds it hard to be there in the capacity that Sasha needs her to be. After Sasha's death Sam blames herself and reverts back to her predatory ways, but help is at hand and she does sort her life out.
This story is very powerful. As you read it you experience Sam's emotional trauma and you feel for her. The issues that this book deal with are extremely upsetting and the raw emotion that gets stirred up leaves you quite emotional. It is a well written, thought provoking book. I really did not expect to enjoy it all, but I have to admit that I really did.
A read that takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and really gets you thinking about the impact sexual abuse has on the lives of the victims.
Highly recommended.
***** 5 stars.
October 8, 2017
We live in a world with insane people. Secrets are amongst us all. So many people are wounded and unable to heal. I enjoyed rrading Wounded and felt sorry for Sam at times. I wonder does love really heals.
September 27, 2015
What can I say about Author Ben Burgess, Jr.'s book “Wounded”?
Initially upon picking up this book I didn't know anything about it, just it's name and that Author Burgess requested that I read and give my honest review of it. I didn't read this book's bio. I just looked at the cover, saw a beautiful woman and read it's title and immediately thought, typical read, a man is going to dog this woman out and she's going to be left WOUNDED. Flipping over the cover I begin to read and all these words popped out at me ...Dedicated ...LGBT Community ...Love is Love ...she got F'd by a woman and she loved it! ...okay so now I stop reading and I'm thinking what has Ben sent me?
Now that I have read this book and it's bio, it's beginning until about a quarter into the book is one that hits the ground running in it's sexual adult content. This material is very raw. The editing is good, there aren't any typos. The story line and characters are clear, but different. This book is not for those who are traditionally closed minded in their thought process as it pertains to male/female relations, however, if you are open and want to be enlightened this book will pull at the very core of your humanity.
This books storyline doesn't pick up for me until about a quarter into the book where I learn more about the main character Samantha Miller (SAM). Despite being prostituted out by her drugged addicted mom, dogged out by her pimp of a father and life Samantha's character is eventually left with no one except her two best friend/sisters. After reading the type of life this character lived, I'm thinking how could she not be Wounded and be able to sustain a stable relationship. In spite of everything, her character is strong willed but hardhearted and owns her sexuality of being a lesbian at a very early age. Her ultimate goal is to own her own photography shop. She's not looking for love and only see woman as conquest, mainly turning out straight and married ones, that is until she meets and eventually falls in love with the Good Girl, Bible Quoting, Family Oriented, PK Kid,,, Ms. Sasha. Sasha has a trifling boyfriend and is adamant that she is and has always been heterosexual, or is she really?
This book is a good read, and although at the end I still found it somewhat hard to relate to it I would recommend it. This book opened me up to my compassionate side and gave me perspective on a world I know nothing about... Makes one question, Is Love just that ...Love?
Tangela D. Fleming
Brownstone Book Club
Founder/President
5 Stars
Initially upon picking up this book I didn't know anything about it, just it's name and that Author Burgess requested that I read and give my honest review of it. I didn't read this book's bio. I just looked at the cover, saw a beautiful woman and read it's title and immediately thought, typical read, a man is going to dog this woman out and she's going to be left WOUNDED. Flipping over the cover I begin to read and all these words popped out at me ...Dedicated ...LGBT Community ...Love is Love ...she got F'd by a woman and she loved it! ...okay so now I stop reading and I'm thinking what has Ben sent me?
Now that I have read this book and it's bio, it's beginning until about a quarter into the book is one that hits the ground running in it's sexual adult content. This material is very raw. The editing is good, there aren't any typos. The story line and characters are clear, but different. This book is not for those who are traditionally closed minded in their thought process as it pertains to male/female relations, however, if you are open and want to be enlightened this book will pull at the very core of your humanity.
This books storyline doesn't pick up for me until about a quarter into the book where I learn more about the main character Samantha Miller (SAM). Despite being prostituted out by her drugged addicted mom, dogged out by her pimp of a father and life Samantha's character is eventually left with no one except her two best friend/sisters. After reading the type of life this character lived, I'm thinking how could she not be Wounded and be able to sustain a stable relationship. In spite of everything, her character is strong willed but hardhearted and owns her sexuality of being a lesbian at a very early age. Her ultimate goal is to own her own photography shop. She's not looking for love and only see woman as conquest, mainly turning out straight and married ones, that is until she meets and eventually falls in love with the Good Girl, Bible Quoting, Family Oriented, PK Kid,,, Ms. Sasha. Sasha has a trifling boyfriend and is adamant that she is and has always been heterosexual, or is she really?
This book is a good read, and although at the end I still found it somewhat hard to relate to it I would recommend it. This book opened me up to my compassionate side and gave me perspective on a world I know nothing about... Makes one question, Is Love just that ...Love?
Tangela D. Fleming
Brownstone Book Club
Founder/President
5 Stars
September 14, 2014
Hurt people hurt people is a phrase used regarding people who have been hurt in life by someone who they cared for and in turn they hurt people who care for them. It is an ongoing cycle because of their previous hurt and most times they don't even realize that they are purposely hurting people or why they are hurting them. This type of destructive behavior happens more often than not but the real question is can it be stopped or do they WANT to stop it?
Samantha Miller from as early as she could remember has had horrible memories of abuse in her life. Sam's mother was a junkie and would pimp her out for a fix to any and every man who would help her. It is no wonder that Samantha has commitment issues and issues with men in general, but because of her earlier years this has also made her put up a wall so high that only her two friends Silka and Jamie and ever get through to her. Adding to her disdain for men, Samantha is a dancer so she really see men as nothing individuals. Using her stage name Isis, her main goal is to convert as many women who are straddling the fence as she can and leave them broken and wanting more. That is until Sasha started working at the club and she sets out on her newest conquest only to be thrown for a loop. Will this cycle of hurt continue on or will "Isis" be stopped in her tracks and converted into a new woman?
Wounded is a story dealing with today's issues ~ child sexual abuse, rape, sexual discovery, gay bashing and general gender discrimination. Life is hard enough just LIVING without having additional issues to boot and this book takes you through some of the issues that are ongoing in today's society that once was hidden but have come to the forefront. I applaud Burgess for writing this type of book, it is not easy to write a book about something that you don't have first hand experience with but is a touchy subject. I enjoyed this story it sends you through a variety of emotions and that is one of the things that I look for in a drama novel. The characters make you feel like you are experiencing what they are going through or have been through. I look forward to more works from Burgess in the future!
Samantha Miller from as early as she could remember has had horrible memories of abuse in her life. Sam's mother was a junkie and would pimp her out for a fix to any and every man who would help her. It is no wonder that Samantha has commitment issues and issues with men in general, but because of her earlier years this has also made her put up a wall so high that only her two friends Silka and Jamie and ever get through to her. Adding to her disdain for men, Samantha is a dancer so she really see men as nothing individuals. Using her stage name Isis, her main goal is to convert as many women who are straddling the fence as she can and leave them broken and wanting more. That is until Sasha started working at the club and she sets out on her newest conquest only to be thrown for a loop. Will this cycle of hurt continue on or will "Isis" be stopped in her tracks and converted into a new woman?
Wounded is a story dealing with today's issues ~ child sexual abuse, rape, sexual discovery, gay bashing and general gender discrimination. Life is hard enough just LIVING without having additional issues to boot and this book takes you through some of the issues that are ongoing in today's society that once was hidden but have come to the forefront. I applaud Burgess for writing this type of book, it is not easy to write a book about something that you don't have first hand experience with but is a touchy subject. I enjoyed this story it sends you through a variety of emotions and that is one of the things that I look for in a drama novel. The characters make you feel like you are experiencing what they are going through or have been through. I look forward to more works from Burgess in the future!
August 5, 2016
“Wounded” is an emotional and raw novel that takes you on the journey of Samantha Miller, a lesbian stripper and her path of self-destruction. Sam has had a hard life since her childhood. The abuse she has suffered during those impressionable years has made her blinded to love. Sam has no faith in men and throughout the book, you can see her harsh feelings towards them as she delves in and out of relationships with women. She is constantly on the hunt to find her next victim to ‘turn out’. Love is nowhere on the agenda until Sasha comes on the scene as a bartender at the gentleman’s club where Sam dances. Cultivated by Sasha, Sam makes it her mission to conquer Sasha in her bed but Sam is the one who gets caught up. One night changes everything between Sam and Sasha.
This book opens up a discussion regarding many issues in today’s society in regards to rape, LBGT lifestyles, and hate crimes. Sometimes we don’t determine who we love whether it is the opposite or same sex. When we do fall in love, we fall hard. The more we deny the feelings we have for a person, the more it seems to pull us in. We see in this gripping lesbian fiction book that our past shapes who we become in the future and only we can change the way that journey ends.
Ben Burgess Jr, who is also the author of Reader’s Favorite Award book, Monster, does an impeccable job in developing the plot. Readers are left on an emotional rollercoaster as they turn the page of this novel. This story also makes you conscious of the way you treat anyone from the LGBT community. Sam and Sasha’s character was developed so well, you felt every emotion they were experiencing from pain to happiness to heartbreak.
I applaud the author for embarking in this journey from the outside looking in. Great job!
This book opens up a discussion regarding many issues in today’s society in regards to rape, LBGT lifestyles, and hate crimes. Sometimes we don’t determine who we love whether it is the opposite or same sex. When we do fall in love, we fall hard. The more we deny the feelings we have for a person, the more it seems to pull us in. We see in this gripping lesbian fiction book that our past shapes who we become in the future and only we can change the way that journey ends.
Ben Burgess Jr, who is also the author of Reader’s Favorite Award book, Monster, does an impeccable job in developing the plot. Readers are left on an emotional rollercoaster as they turn the page of this novel. This story also makes you conscious of the way you treat anyone from the LGBT community. Sam and Sasha’s character was developed so well, you felt every emotion they were experiencing from pain to happiness to heartbreak.
I applaud the author for embarking in this journey from the outside looking in. Great job!
September 8, 2014
I was asked to do an honest review on this book and when I first read what it was about I couldn't believe I was actually going to read it. You see this isn't usually a book I would buy for myself to read. BUT oh am I so glad I did. I loved this book. It kept me turning pages all night. Yes I finished this book in 1 night! Now where to start with this review,...
where to start
First did I say I LOVED this book? Like full on loved it. I cried, I laughed, and cried some more. I stopped reading to yell at the characters at certain points. Yes I did. I love reading about characters who are broken and try to find themselves. To me this is real life. People are broken, come on admit it, and while we may not all be broken in the same way we are in some way together in that. So this book is a great read to connect with. I also love how this book engages in the gay/lesbian community. For Mr. Burgess to be able to write such an amazing book with storyline, and be a male? Yeah you my sir are amazing. I mean how many men can go into a woman's head like that? Samantha is by far my favorite character, and I know some are yall are thinking that womanizer why?! Because of that there fact. She hides her pain behind using woman and leaving them. Men do this all the time and to see it being done by another woman, well it shows that the other shoe has finally dropped.
READ THIS BOOK. When you first start reading you may want to put it down due to the sexual scenes might be a little much if you aren't opened minded. To me its no worse than reading about 2 men and 1 woman, but read through it, it gets a lot better!
I hope you enjoy. Come back and tell me which character was your favorite!
where to start
First did I say I LOVED this book? Like full on loved it. I cried, I laughed, and cried some more. I stopped reading to yell at the characters at certain points. Yes I did. I love reading about characters who are broken and try to find themselves. To me this is real life. People are broken, come on admit it, and while we may not all be broken in the same way we are in some way together in that. So this book is a great read to connect with. I also love how this book engages in the gay/lesbian community. For Mr. Burgess to be able to write such an amazing book with storyline, and be a male? Yeah you my sir are amazing. I mean how many men can go into a woman's head like that? Samantha is by far my favorite character, and I know some are yall are thinking that womanizer why?! Because of that there fact. She hides her pain behind using woman and leaving them. Men do this all the time and to see it being done by another woman, well it shows that the other shoe has finally dropped.
READ THIS BOOK. When you first start reading you may want to put it down due to the sexual scenes might be a little much if you aren't opened minded. To me its no worse than reading about 2 men and 1 woman, but read through it, it gets a lot better!
I hope you enjoy. Come back and tell me which character was your favorite!
June 3, 2014
This was my very first read by author Ben Burgess Jr., and I must truly say, I was eager to get started, because I'd heard lots of good things in passing about the author and this book.
Wounded very quickly draws your attention, and you find yourself immediately sympathizing with Samantha Miller, the main character in the book. Sam, as her friends call her, has a very horrible childhood, and goes through all kinds of hell. You quickly want to fight for her, protect her, and shelter her. She grows up hardened and bitter, not caring too much about anyone other than her two best friends. She's hard pressed to insure that her surroundings, childhood, and circumstances turn into a stepping-stone of opportunity for her.
Throughout this book, I found myself going through several cycles of emotions; I cried, I cussed, I cheered, and I learned a little something. Without giving away the book or the ending, I will say that it reminded me that you can't just go through life, you have to grow through it. This book was very well written, the characters are well developed, and you can identify with them, and it has a twist towards the end that you don't see coming. I was truly in tears towards the end, and when I closed the book.
I am now a fan of Ben Burgess' work, and eagerly look forward to reading his other books. I would definitely recommend this book to others who are looking for a great read!
Wounded very quickly draws your attention, and you find yourself immediately sympathizing with Samantha Miller, the main character in the book. Sam, as her friends call her, has a very horrible childhood, and goes through all kinds of hell. You quickly want to fight for her, protect her, and shelter her. She grows up hardened and bitter, not caring too much about anyone other than her two best friends. She's hard pressed to insure that her surroundings, childhood, and circumstances turn into a stepping-stone of opportunity for her.
Throughout this book, I found myself going through several cycles of emotions; I cried, I cussed, I cheered, and I learned a little something. Without giving away the book or the ending, I will say that it reminded me that you can't just go through life, you have to grow through it. This book was very well written, the characters are well developed, and you can identify with them, and it has a twist towards the end that you don't see coming. I was truly in tears towards the end, and when I closed the book.
I am now a fan of Ben Burgess' work, and eagerly look forward to reading his other books. I would definitely recommend this book to others who are looking for a great read!
August 3, 2014
First off...try to read the book on a day where you have more time, so you can potentially do it in one sitting. Secondly - don't jump the book when you read it (I did and kind of regretted it), it will kill the surprise element when you do so.
This book is a very raw and emotional read. Sam had a very screwed up childhood that changes every way she perceives live and deals with relationships with other people. Mostly, she doesn't trust or feel for anyone (minus her two friends) and until she met Sasha, who unconditionally cares for her. Through the book, you'll see that Sam does want to be rescued deep down, but she was constantly moving back to her old destructive pattern, until she lost what meant most to her.
Not all of the readers will like the ending, but personally I felt it's realistic. Given all the traumas she's gone through in life, something mellow wouldn't made her felt the compulsion to change, and a person also wouldn't suddenly change and evolve into a different personality.
I liked that the book end with a positive note - you do hold your own destiny and there is always hope. I'll put this book on my re-read shelf.
This book is a very raw and emotional read. Sam had a very screwed up childhood that changes every way she perceives live and deals with relationships with other people. Mostly, she doesn't trust or feel for anyone (minus her two friends) and until she met Sasha, who unconditionally cares for her. Through the book, you'll see that Sam does want to be rescued deep down, but she was constantly moving back to her old destructive pattern, until she lost what meant most to her.
Not all of the readers will like the ending, but personally I felt it's realistic. Given all the traumas she's gone through in life, something mellow wouldn't made her felt the compulsion to change, and a person also wouldn't suddenly change and evolve into a different personality.
I liked that the book end with a positive note - you do hold your own destiny and there is always hope. I'll put this book on my re-read shelf.
September 1, 2014
I will start this by saying I can't believe that Wounded was written by a man! It is a powerful tale of someone who hasn't been able to resolve issues of the past so they grew from a broken girl into a broken woman. The story of Samantha is quite heartbreaking to read, but it is a story that needed to be told because I am sure that there are people fighting her same battle.
"If you take someone by force, it can be enjoyable because you have that sense of power over them. If you can get someone to do what you want willingly, that's real power."
Samantha is one of those people that seem so rough or tough on the outside, but they are truly a sensitive soul. She uses and dismisses other females just as one chews gum. She doesn't get her feelings involved until Sasha enters the picture.
Sasha's story is one that is also painful to read. She is struggling with her sexuality and to see her come to terms with her truth is quite overwhelming. Wounded is a story of being a victim, to being the one causing others pain, and eventually one of redemption.
"If you take someone by force, it can be enjoyable because you have that sense of power over them. If you can get someone to do what you want willingly, that's real power."
Samantha is one of those people that seem so rough or tough on the outside, but they are truly a sensitive soul. She uses and dismisses other females just as one chews gum. She doesn't get her feelings involved until Sasha enters the picture.
Sasha's story is one that is also painful to read. She is struggling with her sexuality and to see her come to terms with her truth is quite overwhelming. Wounded is a story of being a victim, to being the one causing others pain, and eventually one of redemption.
July 22, 2014
Ben Burgess Jr. is back with his sophomore literary effort, Wounded. Readers will meet Samantha Miller a females with a lot of issues and many unresolved that has her living a lifestyle many would never consider. Samantha learned at an early age to use what you got to get what you want and with that mentality, she is unstoppable in a sense. You will read the pages eagerly anticipating what was going to happen next. The story was a true emotional roller coaster due to the subject matters. There was violence, suspense and taboo topics were definitely examined and brought to the forefront.
I truly enjoyed Wounded. The story line was great and just enough suspense to keep me engrossed. Definitely a emotionally accurate story about life and the consequences that occur from the decisions we make. Ben Burgess Jr. definitely was writing outside the box with this story and I without a doubt look forward to the author’s future work. Job well done Mr. Burgess!
Reviewed By: Kisha Green for Literary Jewels
Review Copy Supplied By Author
Format: Paperback
January 4, 2016
This book was phenomenal! I've never read a book like this one before. It really piqued my interest & held it to the very end. Ben Burgess Jr. is such an amazing writer. I highly recommend his books to others & I would definitely read more of his work.
Sam is in a very dark place. She is traumatized by her troublesome childhood & it reflects in her actions now. Being a lesbian but yet constantly being raped as a child & even as an adult is terrifying. I felt her pain. She has been through so much in her life.
When she finds true love, she makes a rash decision that compromises it all. Now she's back to fighting her demons, without the love of her life. But with good friends & a counsel, she faces all her troubles and slowly heals.
This book reflects that love is simply love! You love who you love and you are what you are and you can choose to become a better human being, with time & love, no matter how dark your past is or how 'wounded' you are. This book is very emotional and well-written! I loved it!
~ VIP BOOK REVIEWER ~
Sam is in a very dark place. She is traumatized by her troublesome childhood & it reflects in her actions now. Being a lesbian but yet constantly being raped as a child & even as an adult is terrifying. I felt her pain. She has been through so much in her life.
When she finds true love, she makes a rash decision that compromises it all. Now she's back to fighting her demons, without the love of her life. But with good friends & a counsel, she faces all her troubles and slowly heals.
This book reflects that love is simply love! You love who you love and you are what you are and you can choose to become a better human being, with time & love, no matter how dark your past is or how 'wounded' you are. This book is very emotional and well-written! I loved it!
~ VIP BOOK REVIEWER ~
May 3, 2015
For me, Wounded is one of those books not easily forgotten. Ben Burgess, Jr. did a great job explaining the reasons for Sam's actions by providing flashbacks & background information concerning her life's trials. This story was well written & had a smooth flowing storyline. Sam's young life was one that no person should have to experience. Her mothers horrid treatment during her childhood set the stage of how she treated many of the people she met throughout her life. She did have great friendships with Silka & Jamie & they loved her unconditionally. Sasha was a different story. Dr. Andrews was also a positive influence in her life once she allowed him in. "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change" was the most valuable information he gave her. This was an excellent standalone book that I recommend to all.
March 20, 2015
Definitely a page turner. Ben kept me on the edge of my seat with this story. I'm only halfway through it and I'm in love with Sam and what she stands for even though she had a real rough start in life. She didn't let that stop her from growing into an empowering,beautiful young woman. I can't wait to finish and side note so glad Cheryl saved her in the shower. I thought she was done with those white girls found her. Its a wonderful relationship that black woman should have lifting up each other and not putting each other down.
In a way I can relate to Sam and I feel she's like me.Every person is in your life for a lesson or a reason and I feel Cheryl was her reason to make Sam look deeper into herself and to find out who she was and her reason for being.
In a way I can relate to Sam and I feel she's like me.Every person is in your life for a lesson or a reason and I feel Cheryl was her reason to make Sam look deeper into herself and to find out who she was and her reason for being.
September 6, 2014
Another book so out of my usual genre. This is a deep and emotional read.
Sam knows who she is but is dealing with some serious demons on top of trying to give up old habits plus be in a committed relationship. Her lover, Sasha is trying to come to terms with her sexuality, while dealing with her friends, family, faith and her choices.
This books hits on a few serious topics and the effect it has on the characters and how they dealt with them. And yet, the author managed to write a HEA ending. The story did not read like fiction, it reads like it could have actually been someone's life. Excellent writing.
Sam knows who she is but is dealing with some serious demons on top of trying to give up old habits plus be in a committed relationship. Her lover, Sasha is trying to come to terms with her sexuality, while dealing with her friends, family, faith and her choices.
This books hits on a few serious topics and the effect it has on the characters and how they dealt with them. And yet, the author managed to write a HEA ending. The story did not read like fiction, it reads like it could have actually been someone's life. Excellent writing.
September 18, 2014
Again, delving into a world I am unfamiliar with, but I have to give Wounded 5 stars for what I consider the most important aspects of a book. Biggest one is that I couldn't put it down. Despite the horrors of Sam's life, I was riveted by her audacity, her sexual exploits and the storyline itself. The writing was clean and flowed well, even though it seemed rushed in certain parts (which is better than lagging, so I didn't mind it). Descriptive sex scenes keep it sizzling throughout, which counter-balance the tragic aspects of the story. I don't agree with reviewers who said the ending was unrealistic since we all accomplish things no one thought us capable of. Great book!
December 23, 2014
I decided to write this review immediately after finishing Wounded by Ben Burgess Jr. Ordinarily I’d wait and order my impressions, but any book that succeeds in touching a reader this deeply deserves an emotional reaction, and five stars. You can read the book’s description for yourself. I’ll say only that the protagonist, Samantha, had a childhood so horriblly abusive that hatred of men was understandably the only option she saw. However the author, letting Sam, a stripper, tell the story in first person — a major feat for a male author — pushed this painful and erotic tale to a higher truth. A must-read for anyone who has been abused or wants to know the evil of prejudice of any kind.
June 13, 2014
This book was definitely a page turner. This book kept me on the edge the whole time while reading. Ben you did a awesome job with the characters is this book and all. I just can't believe Sam like to turn all women out up until she meet the girl of her dreams. I can't believe she did all that in the end just to relive her mind and have it at peace. This was a awesome read that is not your typical urban read. I can't wait to read another book by you.
August 28, 2015
I loved this book! This is my second review for this author and the novel. I was really anticipating each read. Plenty of robust emotion and cinematic prose. Samantha (the novel's protagonist) really made a lasting impression on me. I especially loved the connections the author drew between her childhood and all her other relations. However the one between her and her mother resonated the most with me. It was very real. I look forward to reading the next book.
August 20, 2014
I thought this book was very deep. It addressed a lot issues, and showed that our pasts can have a strong affect on our present and future. I thought it did a great job with showing that love is a strong emotion that can help people overcome difficulties in life.
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