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Unseen Enemy #3
Enemy Mine
Six years ago, Jennifer Sawyer survived a hellish experience. Despite it all, she’s managed to get her life back on track: she owns a successful restaurant, she has good female friends, and she’s found ways to enjoy her life. But no men; no men, not ever. Well, except for Chris. He’s the first man that she’s trusted since, and even he isn’t allowed to touch her. But when Jenny decides that she’s ready to explore sex surrogacy as part of her recovery, the list of men’s names to approach for help is short. It’s exactly one name long, actually.
Chris Brooker is a former Ranger, now working as a mechanic for a guy with motorcycle club connections (well, maybe). Chris is in love with Jenny and has been for a while, but he’s never so much as touched her baby finger. He may not know exactly what happened to her, but he knows it was bad. When she asks for his help, he’s torn between wanting to do anything at all for Jenny to make her better, and his instinct to do anything at all to avoid scaring her.
Slowly, carefully, Jenny and Chris fight together for every inch of intimate ground that can possibly be gained. As time passes, their relationship changes, but is she ready for that? Will she ever be ready for that? And if she is, will Chris be the man that Jenny can turn to… not just for support, but for love?
Chris Brooker is a former Ranger, now working as a mechanic for a guy with motorcycle club connections (well, maybe). Chris is in love with Jenny and has been for a while, but he’s never so much as touched her baby finger. He may not know exactly what happened to her, but he knows it was bad. When she asks for his help, he’s torn between wanting to do anything at all for Jenny to make her better, and his instinct to do anything at all to avoid scaring her.
Slowly, carefully, Jenny and Chris fight together for every inch of intimate ground that can possibly be gained. As time passes, their relationship changes, but is she ready for that? Will she ever be ready for that? And if she is, will Chris be the man that Jenny can turn to… not just for support, but for love?
169 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2014
30 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Marysol James
36 books252 followersMarysol James was raised in a small town in Canada and is still a small-town girl at heart. She's a cancer survivor, cinnamon bun lover, and hardcore caffeine addict.
Marysol crosses genres in her writing, happily and enthusiastically. To date, she's published 30 steamy, sexy, slinky Contemporary Erotic Romances spread over five different series, including the Amazon and iBooks best selling 'Unseen Enemy', 'Dangerous Curves', and 'Road Devils MC' series. Her books incorporate action and adventure, suspense, military elements, and some surprising plot twists and turns.
Besides her romances, Marysol also writes crisp, clever, Contemporary Literature. It can be dark and provocative at times, and magical realism features heavily in her books. She loves moving between the worlds of magical realism and glorious romance, and she's grateful every day to be able to do both.
If you'd like to stay on top of her news, please visit her official author's website at www.marysoljames.com
Marysol crosses genres in her writing, happily and enthusiastically. To date, she's published 30 steamy, sexy, slinky Contemporary Erotic Romances spread over five different series, including the Amazon and iBooks best selling 'Unseen Enemy', 'Dangerous Curves', and 'Road Devils MC' series. Her books incorporate action and adventure, suspense, military elements, and some surprising plot twists and turns.
Besides her romances, Marysol also writes crisp, clever, Contemporary Literature. It can be dark and provocative at times, and magical realism features heavily in her books. She loves moving between the worlds of magical realism and glorious romance, and she's grateful every day to be able to do both.
If you'd like to stay on top of her news, please visit her official author's website at www.marysoljames.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 18, 2017
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
These characters have sucked me in and I just can't stop reading this series. Jenny and Chris had a great relationship and I liked that Chris was so patient and caring with her. She had a horrible trauma she was trying to move on from and I thought the author handled that really well.
My only complaint is that we saw so much of the past characters, like full scenes of just them and it got a little annoying when I was chomping at the bit to get back to Chris and Jenny.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
These characters have sucked me in and I just can't stop reading this series. Jenny and Chris had a great relationship and I liked that Chris was so patient and caring with her. She had a horrible trauma she was trying to move on from and I thought the author handled that really well.
My only complaint is that we saw so much of the past characters, like full scenes of just them and it got a little annoying when I was chomping at the bit to get back to Chris and Jenny.
February 2, 2015
In the third book in the Unseen Enemy series, the story continues right after the last one and features Jenny, who was brutally raped six years ago and is still dealing with the aftermath and its effect on her interactions with men. Chris is closest to Jenny and she asks him to be her sexual surrogate. And then, romance of course.
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-Kindle Unlimited book
-Good leads: Jenny’s been through alot, and this is the type of insecure heroine that doesn’t irritate me because there’s never a moment that I didn’t feel badly for her and her struggle to let Chris in. Chris is the most understanding hero who .
-This week on Unseen Enemy...: I’ve been struggling to think of what this series reminds me of and I think I finally figured it out. It really plays out like a continuing drama on television, rather than individual books. This is filled with characters you cared about dealing with everyday issues in a manner that you can relate to. Their stories don’t end at the conclusion of their individual books, but continue throughout the series.This may or may not be your thing, but I’ve liked getting to know each of these couples in a way you don’t get to see often. The upside is that instead of most serial romances that focus on just one couple and usually end in a cliffhanger, this series features one couple in each book and gives you enough of a happy ending that you're not left hanging. I love that.
-Lack of action: On the flip side, this is a very realistic, and grounded series, but the action moments are few and far between. In this book, there could have been a chance to inject some action into it if Jenny’s attackers were around, but that just doesn’t happen. If you’re in the mood for an escapist fantasy type of romance, this isn’t it. It’s been a good change of pace for me, but I don’t know if I’d read this type of romance all the time.
The Bottom Line
Third book in and I’m still liking this cast of characters. I’d recommend this for those who are into a more grounded type of romance. On to the next.
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-Kindle Unlimited book
-Good leads: Jenny’s been through alot, and this is the type of insecure heroine that doesn’t irritate me because there’s never a moment that I didn’t feel badly for her and her struggle to let Chris in. Chris is the most understanding hero who .
-This week on Unseen Enemy...: I’ve been struggling to think of what this series reminds me of and I think I finally figured it out. It really plays out like a continuing drama on television, rather than individual books. This is filled with characters you cared about dealing with everyday issues in a manner that you can relate to. Their stories don’t end at the conclusion of their individual books, but continue throughout the series.This may or may not be your thing, but I’ve liked getting to know each of these couples in a way you don’t get to see often. The upside is that instead of most serial romances that focus on just one couple and usually end in a cliffhanger, this series features one couple in each book and gives you enough of a happy ending that you're not left hanging. I love that.
-Lack of action: On the flip side, this is a very realistic, and grounded series, but the action moments are few and far between. In this book, there could have been a chance to inject some action into it if Jenny’s attackers were around, but that just doesn’t happen. If you’re in the mood for an escapist fantasy type of romance, this isn’t it. It’s been a good change of pace for me, but I don’t know if I’d read this type of romance all the time.
The Bottom Line
Third book in and I’m still liking this cast of characters. I’d recommend this for those who are into a more grounded type of romance. On to the next.
February 19, 2015
A SOLID 4 STAR READ
I absolutely love this series, this book was Jennifer's and Chris's story which was as heartbreaking as it was heartwarming, it also involved the previous couples a lot more and how each couple were still dealing with their own personal traumas, it was good to catch up with them. It also laid down the foundations for Kat's story, which has me totally intrigued.
Onto the next...!
I absolutely love this series, this book was Jennifer's and Chris's story which was as heartbreaking as it was heartwarming, it also involved the previous couples a lot more and how each couple were still dealing with their own personal traumas, it was good to catch up with them. It also laid down the foundations for Kat's story, which has me totally intrigued.
Onto the next...!
January 17, 2015
While a nice addition to this series, I feel like I missed the chemistry between Jenny and Chris. I felt his protective side towards Jenny but not the "romantic" feelings.
Upside: more Dallas, Olivia, Dean and Emma! Yay!
Upside: more Dallas, Olivia, Dean and Emma! Yay!
February 12, 2015
4.0+ RATING Enemy Mine is the third book in the Unseen Enemy series and this is a series I recommend reading in order. Now on the third book, I know and care about these characters and that made Enemy Mine a more satisfying read. I actually thought the "sexual surrogate" storyline was a bit unique and certainly one I haven't read before. Was the hero too good to be true? Yep. Still I'm all for a fantistic hero and this series is filled with them!
Overall, I thought this was another solid story in a series I really like.
Note: At the time this review was posted, this book was available to borrow through Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program.
To see other books available to borrow through Kindle Unlimited or SCRIBD, check out the Subscription Addiction group
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Overall, I thought this was another solid story in a series I really like.
Note: At the time this review was posted, this book was available to borrow through Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program.
To see other books available to borrow through Kindle Unlimited or SCRIBD, check out the Subscription Addiction group
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
January 29, 2015
Jenny is such a sweet shy person. In the earlier books, when she with her girl friends Emma Olivia & Kat, she's just one of the girls. When one of the guys came near her, she was extremely tense and obviously fearful.
The reason for Jenny's guarded attitude was revealed in the first 2 books. In this book, it is explained- though fortunately, not in too much detail. Jenny has been determined to get over her fear() of men. The unusual thing to me, is that almost every event is discussed between the guys and the ladies. The eight of them are very close! Chris is such a sweetheart to Jenny. He's had the hots for her since they met. He has wisely kept his distance-until Jenny requests help from him. She's been seeing a therapist-and her progress seems to have stalled. Jenny and the therapist agree that Jenny should hire a sex surrogate. Jenny immediately thinks of Chris for the job.Of course he agrees. He is so patient with her, I almost thought that he'd been in training.
The physical closeness is the key. They start off very slowly. The intimacy building is slow but seemed natural. This almost felt something other than a romance. They started off friends, that is why Jenny went to Chris with her uh, request. I'm anxious for the next book (Kat & Jim's book), so I'm sure I'll catch up with each couple's love life.
I'm between 4.25 & 4.5 stars.
The reason for Jenny's guarded attitude was revealed in the first 2 books. In this book, it is explained- though fortunately, not in too much detail. Jenny has been determined to get over her fear() of men. The unusual thing to me, is that almost every event is discussed between the guys and the ladies. The eight of them are very close! Chris is such a sweetheart to Jenny. He's had the hots for her since they met. He has wisely kept his distance-until Jenny requests help from him. She's been seeing a therapist-and her progress seems to have stalled. Jenny and the therapist agree that Jenny should hire a sex surrogate. Jenny immediately thinks of Chris for the job.Of course he agrees. He is so patient with her, I almost thought that he'd been in training.
The physical closeness is the key. They start off very slowly. The intimacy building is slow but seemed natural. This almost felt something other than a romance. They started off friends, that is why Jenny went to Chris with her uh, request. I'm anxious for the next book (Kat & Jim's book), so I'm sure I'll catch up with each couple's love life.
I'm between 4.25 & 4.5 stars.
January 20, 2015
Ah I loved this one! It picked up right where the previous book ended, and although this is Chris and Jenny's story we still get more on the other couples ongoing stories too. I really love a series that keeps on dipping into earlier characters and stories, and seeing how they are doing and where they're at now.
Jenny was so very damaged after the most horrific attack that happened several years before. She was beyond petrified of men and although Chris did not know her story he still knew that she needed time, space and support. He is the most amazing hero. Understanding, patient, tolerant, accepting and was so in love with Jenny. The way he helped her move on was ..... well, everything. It takes one hell of a man to do what he did for Jenny.
I love how their story was done, not over the top, no ridiculous melodrama or angst, just so very real. I love that the author didn't rush the relationship. She let it develop in such a believable way. No insta-lust here :)
The story was low on action, but then I don't think it needed it. Anything else would have detracted from the strong storyline of survival, acceptance and moving on from the effects of a heinous crime.
I am really enjoying this series, love the characters and the story arc.
Jenny was so very damaged after the most horrific attack that happened several years before. She was beyond petrified of men and although Chris did not know her story he still knew that she needed time, space and support. He is the most amazing hero. Understanding, patient, tolerant, accepting and was so in love with Jenny. The way he helped her move on was ..... well, everything. It takes one hell of a man to do what he did for Jenny.
I love how their story was done, not over the top, no ridiculous melodrama or angst, just so very real. I love that the author didn't rush the relationship. She let it develop in such a believable way. No insta-lust here :)
The story was low on action, but then I don't think it needed it. Anything else would have detracted from the strong storyline of survival, acceptance and moving on from the effects of a heinous crime.
I am really enjoying this series, love the characters and the story arc.
October 23, 2014
So many things to love about this book, but I think I'll just focus on one, namely, that I love how James uses time. I know this is weird, but let me explain.
Characters in romance books seem to exist in some kind of parallel universe where everything is 'insta'. Insta-love, insta-sex, insta-crisis which is then insta-resolved. James doesn't go for any of that.
Her characters take time to heal (look at Olivia, who was so badly hurt in Book 2 and doesn't even show her scars to Dallas until Book 3, about 6 weeks after what happened to her. This kind of adjustment period after a trauma is to be expected!). Emma's illness continues in Book 3, and all the fall-out from it too. Jenny and Chris take FOUR MONTHS to really establish their relationship.
I love this. I love the growth in relationships. I love the 'real life' use of emotional development. I love that James doesn't drop a single ball in terms of explaining anything - she just takes her time.
Characters in romance books seem to exist in some kind of parallel universe where everything is 'insta'. Insta-love, insta-sex, insta-crisis which is then insta-resolved. James doesn't go for any of that.
Her characters take time to heal (look at Olivia, who was so badly hurt in Book 2 and doesn't even show her scars to Dallas until Book 3, about 6 weeks after what happened to her. This kind of adjustment period after a trauma is to be expected!). Emma's illness continues in Book 3, and all the fall-out from it too. Jenny and Chris take FOUR MONTHS to really establish their relationship.
I love this. I love the growth in relationships. I love the 'real life' use of emotional development. I love that James doesn't drop a single ball in terms of explaining anything - she just takes her time.
October 21, 2014
What a difficult subject and it was handled perfectly. James has quickly become my favorite romance writer, because she tackles hard topics without flinching and somehow manages to include some humor and tons of character development. And I find her writing SO romantic and emotional.
Best of all, though, her female characters are STRONG WOMEN. Yes! Women who don't play the victim! I can hardly believe it, myself.
Best of all, though, her female characters are STRONG WOMEN. Yes! Women who don't play the victim! I can hardly believe it, myself.
September 1, 2015
Another cracking book in the series!!, Jim you are the loveliest, sweetest most patient man ever!!!, Jenny, you couldn't have been in safer hands, loving this series, need more stories stat!!
January 31, 2015
FIVE 'I WANT TO BE LOVED' STARS!!
When I read the first book of this series, Enemy Within, I immediately read the blurbs for the rest of the series. I was looking forward to reading all of them, but this book is the one I was most anticipating. I'm very much a fan of the highly talented Marysol James. I've read 12 of her books within the last 3 weeks, and I have enjoyed each one. This story, however, was exceptional, and I believe it is the finest depiction of her abilities that I've read so far. This story affected me deeply, and it was a stunningly beautiful story of healing and love.
**********
A word of warning: This book deals with the aftermath of and healing process following a rape from a survivor's perspective. While the act is in the main character's past, it is recounted in the book. The retelling of Jenny's experience is both necessary to the plot and an essential part of her healing process. There is nothing gratuitous about the author's portrayal of this crime nor was it glorified in any way. The author's obvious care and research into this subject matter was evident throughout this book, and she has painstakingly written this story with the utmost care and consideration. This topic was handled as tastefully and respectfully as a topic this sensitive can be handled. I only mention it here so that those sensitive to this particular trigger are forewarned.
**********
Six years ago, a 24 year old Jenny Sawyer was abducted from the parking lot of her job and repeatedly gang raped and beaten by four men over the course of a two-day period. This story finds Jenny well on the path of healing and reaching a point where she wants to pursue one of her pre-attack dreams: love, marriage, children. Jenny is still very much afraid of men. She cannot handle a man's touch, however casual, innocent or unintentional. She knows that in order to move forward towards that dream, she much breach this chasm. She is in therapy, and with the guidance of Zoe, her long-time therapist, Jenny is considering a sex surrogate to slowly reintroduce her to a man's touch and help her realize that it can be pleasurable.
Chris Brooker is a retired Army Ranger and a mechanic. He's become a close and trusted friend to Jenny, though his feelings for her are much stronger, and he's a best friend to Dean, Dallas and Jim. During his time as a Ranger in Afghanistan, Chris was trained in dealing with women who had been raped and/or abused, and he has a natural affinity for it as women seem comfortable with him, despite his size and clear strength. While he doesn't know details and she has not confirmed anything, Chris instinctively knows that something terrible has happened to Jenny. He's very mindful of this, and he is incredibly careful in all his dealings with her.
"Just because a man can hurt a woman, doesn't mean that he will."
Chris is the only man in the years since her attack that Jenny has felt safe with and comfortable around. She and Zoe agree that he would be the ideal candidate for the surrogacy role for Jenny. In a courageous moment, she shows up unannounced at Chris' house to have the conversation with him. Unfortunately, it gets off on awkward footing. She manages to salvage her courage, although shaky, and have the difficult conversation with him about his potential role. She explains the concept of a trained sex surrogate to him, but she also tells him that she can't fathom the idea of a stranger in this role and she asks him to help her. He is totally gobsmacked. He's a mechanic! He has no training, and his greatest fear is that he'll do something to set her back, or, worse, he'll do something to affect their friendship. Jenny asks him to take some time to really think about it and suggests that he talk to Emma, who is a psychologist and could answer his questions. Chris talks with Emma, and after he takes some time to thoughtfully consider Jenny's request, he agrees to help her.
"...when the woman that you love asks you for something, and it's within your power, you ... do it."
Zoe suggested that Chis move in with Jenny, to immerse her in the experience. Chris does that, staying in her guest room. They start the process slowly, painfully slowly. Chris' overwhelming desire to do no harm to Jenny is evident in his every action. He is so patient, thoughtful and gentle with her. He is exactly what she needed in this situation. Of course, all of their friends know what's going on, and as is to be expected with this group of friends, they offer their full and total support to both Chris and Jenny. The other two couples relationships are strengthening and deepening throughout this book, and they're both gorgeous stories of love and devotion. Jenny's bravery in this situation inspires Olivia to face her own fears about her scarring and Dallas' reaction, and he is so loving in his support of her. Emma's responded well to the stem cell transplant and the chemo. She does, however, receive some very surprising and upsetting news from the hospital, and she and Dean are dealing with that.
"Just make her feel safe. Just show her that you're not going to hurt her. That's all you can do; that's what she needs the most right now."
Chris and Jenny continue their slow progression forward. Jenny battles the panic attacks that Chris' touch often incite, and he is right there for her, helping her through it. They grow closer each day, and finally Jenny shares the details of her attack with Chris. He manages - just barely - to hold it together as Jenny recounts the brutality of her attack to him. He goes to his friends, and as Chris struggles with his fear of scaring her and causing her any further emotional harm, however unintentional, his friends talk him through it. He opens up to them, and they are horrified and enraged after learning the details of her attack. They were all protective and respectful of Jenny before they knew what happened to her, and those feelings only intensify for Chris' friends now that they do know. Chris talks to them about backing out, feeling very overwhelmed by the enormity of what that Jenny is trying to overcome, and, as is their way, his friends remind him of why he's there, why he's the one to help her. Chris returns to Jenny's with a renewed sense of purpose. It's a beautiful moment and a turning point for the both of them.
"I feel cherished."
They are moving slowly, totally at Jenny's pace, but moving forward nonetheless. Chris' patience and gentleness with Jenny are exactly what she needs in this situation, and it's incredibly moving to see this big, huge, tough former Ranger handling this woman with such loving care. He is perfect. When Jenny accepted a hug from Chris in public, all of their friends were there to witness it, and they were all overwhelmed with the enormity of that gesture. As time goes on, the progress the two of them make is humbling, and the author did an amazing job of truly capturing the intimacy of these moments. You could feel Jenny's instinctual trust in Chris, and you felt Chris' love and adoration for Jenny. Every moment between the two was a naturally occurring progression of their relationship, and Jenny's strength and courage in this journey was perfectly portrayed by the author.
"It'll be worth waiting for."
Their first kiss happened so naturally and so simply. Taking them both by surprise, Jenny then has one of the worst panic attacks she has ever experienced. She caves in to the exhaustion following the attack and unwittingly moves them forward yet another step. Emma encourages Jenny to continue this forward progress. Chris is an extraordinarily rare man. He so genuinely and purely loves Jenny, and these feeling all but scream from him each time he pushes down his overwhelming wants, desires and needs to selflessly give of himself to Jenny. I loved his internal pep talks as he prepares himself for each step forward.
"It's going to be rough, you know, being at the mercy of your whims. But I'll try to soldier on."
They slowly and steadily progress to more sexually based acts, and the author was spot on in her representation of these private moments and their growing intimacy. Zoe is impressed with how well the process is going for Jenny, and Jenny is pleased with how far she's come. The story lines with the other two couples also continue, with Emma's response to her treatment and the cementing of Dallas and Olivia's relationship. We also learn slightly more about Kat, only through her personal thoughts, and her story will be the basis for the next book. She's clearly been through something traumatic herself, and I'm looking forward to reading her story.
As Jenny and Chris grow closer sexually, they also grow closer emotionally. The underlying friendship in their relationship is a core of safety for Jenny. She encourages Chris to share his demons with her, and, for the first time with someone other than one of his friends, he does. She helps him to really think about what happened in Afghanistan, and she actually offers him comfort in this moment as Chris battles this demon. They continue moving slowly toward the ultimate goal: intercourse. Jenny is also realizing that she has developed real feelings beyond friendship for Chris, and Chris has been in love with Jenny for a while. Emma encourages Jenny to discuss these feelings with Chris, and she unwaveringly progresses the sexual portion of their relationship along. They finally make love.
"I could love him."
Something happens in the quiet moments after the first time they make love, as Jenny is slipping into sleep, that freaks her out. Her reaction to this causes her to shut out Chris and seek out Zoe. Thankfully, Zoe is having none of it and pushes Jenny to really examine her response. She has an epic realization during this conversation with Zoe and rushes to Chris to explain what happened. His response to this news is near knee-buckling relief.
This story, while short in terms of page numbers, was so well paced and developed. If you've read the previous two books, as you should, then it is impossible to not be invested in any of these characters. The unfolding of Jenny and Chris' relationship happened so organically, and it was clearly evident that this author took her research into the healing process of a rape survivor very seriously. She beautifully skated the line between the harsh reality of rape and the telling of a romantic love story with the amazing ability of a master storyteller. This is a story of much healing and hope and love. I was so incredibly moved throughout this book. My heart clutched and raced, I had lumps in my throat, sweaty palms and crying jags. It is not often that an author can provoke this level of response in a reader, but Marysol James did it effortlessly and often with Jenny and Chris' story. I was very impressed by this author before I read this book, and I am well beyond that now. This is exceptional writing, Ms. James. Thank you for sharing Chris and Jenny with us.
When I read the first book of this series, Enemy Within, I immediately read the blurbs for the rest of the series. I was looking forward to reading all of them, but this book is the one I was most anticipating. I'm very much a fan of the highly talented Marysol James. I've read 12 of her books within the last 3 weeks, and I have enjoyed each one. This story, however, was exceptional, and I believe it is the finest depiction of her abilities that I've read so far. This story affected me deeply, and it was a stunningly beautiful story of healing and love.
**********
A word of warning: This book deals with the aftermath of and healing process following a rape from a survivor's perspective. While the act is in the main character's past, it is recounted in the book. The retelling of Jenny's experience is both necessary to the plot and an essential part of her healing process. There is nothing gratuitous about the author's portrayal of this crime nor was it glorified in any way. The author's obvious care and research into this subject matter was evident throughout this book, and she has painstakingly written this story with the utmost care and consideration. This topic was handled as tastefully and respectfully as a topic this sensitive can be handled. I only mention it here so that those sensitive to this particular trigger are forewarned.
**********
Six years ago, a 24 year old Jenny Sawyer was abducted from the parking lot of her job and repeatedly gang raped and beaten by four men over the course of a two-day period. This story finds Jenny well on the path of healing and reaching a point where she wants to pursue one of her pre-attack dreams: love, marriage, children. Jenny is still very much afraid of men. She cannot handle a man's touch, however casual, innocent or unintentional. She knows that in order to move forward towards that dream, she much breach this chasm. She is in therapy, and with the guidance of Zoe, her long-time therapist, Jenny is considering a sex surrogate to slowly reintroduce her to a man's touch and help her realize that it can be pleasurable.
Chris Brooker is a retired Army Ranger and a mechanic. He's become a close and trusted friend to Jenny, though his feelings for her are much stronger, and he's a best friend to Dean, Dallas and Jim. During his time as a Ranger in Afghanistan, Chris was trained in dealing with women who had been raped and/or abused, and he has a natural affinity for it as women seem comfortable with him, despite his size and clear strength. While he doesn't know details and she has not confirmed anything, Chris instinctively knows that something terrible has happened to Jenny. He's very mindful of this, and he is incredibly careful in all his dealings with her.
"Just because a man can hurt a woman, doesn't mean that he will."
Chris is the only man in the years since her attack that Jenny has felt safe with and comfortable around. She and Zoe agree that he would be the ideal candidate for the surrogacy role for Jenny. In a courageous moment, she shows up unannounced at Chris' house to have the conversation with him. Unfortunately, it gets off on awkward footing. She manages to salvage her courage, although shaky, and have the difficult conversation with him about his potential role. She explains the concept of a trained sex surrogate to him, but she also tells him that she can't fathom the idea of a stranger in this role and she asks him to help her. He is totally gobsmacked. He's a mechanic! He has no training, and his greatest fear is that he'll do something to set her back, or, worse, he'll do something to affect their friendship. Jenny asks him to take some time to really think about it and suggests that he talk to Emma, who is a psychologist and could answer his questions. Chris talks with Emma, and after he takes some time to thoughtfully consider Jenny's request, he agrees to help her.
"...when the woman that you love asks you for something, and it's within your power, you ... do it."
Zoe suggested that Chis move in with Jenny, to immerse her in the experience. Chris does that, staying in her guest room. They start the process slowly, painfully slowly. Chris' overwhelming desire to do no harm to Jenny is evident in his every action. He is so patient, thoughtful and gentle with her. He is exactly what she needed in this situation. Of course, all of their friends know what's going on, and as is to be expected with this group of friends, they offer their full and total support to both Chris and Jenny. The other two couples relationships are strengthening and deepening throughout this book, and they're both gorgeous stories of love and devotion. Jenny's bravery in this situation inspires Olivia to face her own fears about her scarring and Dallas' reaction, and he is so loving in his support of her. Emma's responded well to the stem cell transplant and the chemo. She does, however, receive some very surprising and upsetting news from the hospital, and she and Dean are dealing with that.
"Just make her feel safe. Just show her that you're not going to hurt her. That's all you can do; that's what she needs the most right now."
Chris and Jenny continue their slow progression forward. Jenny battles the panic attacks that Chris' touch often incite, and he is right there for her, helping her through it. They grow closer each day, and finally Jenny shares the details of her attack with Chris. He manages - just barely - to hold it together as Jenny recounts the brutality of her attack to him. He goes to his friends, and as Chris struggles with his fear of scaring her and causing her any further emotional harm, however unintentional, his friends talk him through it. He opens up to them, and they are horrified and enraged after learning the details of her attack. They were all protective and respectful of Jenny before they knew what happened to her, and those feelings only intensify for Chris' friends now that they do know. Chris talks to them about backing out, feeling very overwhelmed by the enormity of what that Jenny is trying to overcome, and, as is their way, his friends remind him of why he's there, why he's the one to help her. Chris returns to Jenny's with a renewed sense of purpose. It's a beautiful moment and a turning point for the both of them.
"I feel cherished."
They are moving slowly, totally at Jenny's pace, but moving forward nonetheless. Chris' patience and gentleness with Jenny are exactly what she needs in this situation, and it's incredibly moving to see this big, huge, tough former Ranger handling this woman with such loving care. He is perfect. When Jenny accepted a hug from Chris in public, all of their friends were there to witness it, and they were all overwhelmed with the enormity of that gesture. As time goes on, the progress the two of them make is humbling, and the author did an amazing job of truly capturing the intimacy of these moments. You could feel Jenny's instinctual trust in Chris, and you felt Chris' love and adoration for Jenny. Every moment between the two was a naturally occurring progression of their relationship, and Jenny's strength and courage in this journey was perfectly portrayed by the author.
"It'll be worth waiting for."
Their first kiss happened so naturally and so simply. Taking them both by surprise, Jenny then has one of the worst panic attacks she has ever experienced. She caves in to the exhaustion following the attack and unwittingly moves them forward yet another step. Emma encourages Jenny to continue this forward progress. Chris is an extraordinarily rare man. He so genuinely and purely loves Jenny, and these feeling all but scream from him each time he pushes down his overwhelming wants, desires and needs to selflessly give of himself to Jenny. I loved his internal pep talks as he prepares himself for each step forward.
"It's going to be rough, you know, being at the mercy of your whims. But I'll try to soldier on."
They slowly and steadily progress to more sexually based acts, and the author was spot on in her representation of these private moments and their growing intimacy. Zoe is impressed with how well the process is going for Jenny, and Jenny is pleased with how far she's come. The story lines with the other two couples also continue, with Emma's response to her treatment and the cementing of Dallas and Olivia's relationship. We also learn slightly more about Kat, only through her personal thoughts, and her story will be the basis for the next book. She's clearly been through something traumatic herself, and I'm looking forward to reading her story.
As Jenny and Chris grow closer sexually, they also grow closer emotionally. The underlying friendship in their relationship is a core of safety for Jenny. She encourages Chris to share his demons with her, and, for the first time with someone other than one of his friends, he does. She helps him to really think about what happened in Afghanistan, and she actually offers him comfort in this moment as Chris battles this demon. They continue moving slowly toward the ultimate goal: intercourse. Jenny is also realizing that she has developed real feelings beyond friendship for Chris, and Chris has been in love with Jenny for a while. Emma encourages Jenny to discuss these feelings with Chris, and she unwaveringly progresses the sexual portion of their relationship along. They finally make love.
"I could love him."
Something happens in the quiet moments after the first time they make love, as Jenny is slipping into sleep, that freaks her out. Her reaction to this causes her to shut out Chris and seek out Zoe. Thankfully, Zoe is having none of it and pushes Jenny to really examine her response. She has an epic realization during this conversation with Zoe and rushes to Chris to explain what happened. His response to this news is near knee-buckling relief.
This story, while short in terms of page numbers, was so well paced and developed. If you've read the previous two books, as you should, then it is impossible to not be invested in any of these characters. The unfolding of Jenny and Chris' relationship happened so organically, and it was clearly evident that this author took her research into the healing process of a rape survivor very seriously. She beautifully skated the line between the harsh reality of rape and the telling of a romantic love story with the amazing ability of a master storyteller. This is a story of much healing and hope and love. I was so incredibly moved throughout this book. My heart clutched and raced, I had lumps in my throat, sweaty palms and crying jags. It is not often that an author can provoke this level of response in a reader, but Marysol James did it effortlessly and often with Jenny and Chris' story. I was very impressed by this author before I read this book, and I am well beyond that now. This is exceptional writing, Ms. James. Thank you for sharing Chris and Jenny with us.
October 22, 2014
Another great series from Marysol James. I'm not one that normally reads romances but James has an knack for making her books, characters and the lives they lead incredibly believable and real to life. The themes of trust and consent are refreshing in a world where consent seems to be assumed by male leads and the female leads tend to be written like they should be grateful for any attention thrown their way. Marysol James allows her women to take charge of their experiences while not relegating the men to anything less than a complete and equal partner. Her books are always good reads and allow the trust and relationship between her characters to build instead of falling in love with a glance (because how often does that happen in real life?). Never a disappointment. Consent is sexy, gentlemen!
March 9, 2015
Wow, I think this is my favorite of the series (without having read the fourth yet). I didn't think Ms. James could top the relationship and interaction between Dean and Emma from #1, and I adored Dallas and Olivia's relationship, but Chris and Jenny are amazing. It's such a sensitive subject, and the author handles it well. I'd never heard of a sex surrogate before, and I like that we learn about the process along with Chris. He's such a sweet man, and he loves Jenny so much. And Jenny is tough and determined to have all the things she deserves, even if she has to convince herself that she deserves them. "Enemy Mine" blew me away. Loved it.
November 1, 2014
Loved this book. Loved the love within this book. It was nice to have sweet and gentle after the angst of the other two books in the series. I really love this series and look forward to the next release. It is also nice to see the real life ramifications of violence against women. So often it I just skimmed over and all the hurt nd agony goes away with the love of the right person. This showed the struggle and I respected that.
December 1, 2016
The book was well written. But the heroine trying to get over her trauma just made me sad. I'm glad she found someone who loves her.
March 13, 2019
i was excited for this one after meeting olivia's friends in the first book and finding out what happened to jenny. i think it was handled really well and i think this might tie with the first one for favourite in the series. i wasn't really jazzed about kat's book, but curious enough to check it out and then i'll be done i think.
February 6, 2017
Wonderfully written book. Plot was totally interesting and full of character. Major issue of rape recovery was handled in a positive way. Romance was done in an outstanding fashion. Sex scenes were complicated but worth all the effort to both write and read.
May 21, 2023
Hmm. Interesting premise but the back and forth from one pov to another was very odd.
August 8, 2024
Yes yes and yes I love Jenny and Chris what legends 😭❤️
And KAT!!! Time to find out about her I can’t wait
And KAT!!! Time to find out about her I can’t wait
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2019
I'm going to say about this story what I always say about most of Marysol James's books: She's definitely not afraid to tackle serious subject matter and her approach to romance is not typical, nor is it for the faint at heart. Her books come with serious trigger warnings, so I would definitively advise not reading her books if you can't handle it.
What I love about her writing on these serious subject matters is that it's always handled with much respect yet so eye-opening and very emotional. Admittedly, sometimes talking about this type of trauma can be uncomfortable, but I was drawn to Jenny's story and wanted to know more.
What happened to Jenny six years ago was extremely traumatic, but Ms. James deals with it on a level that's so amazing. As a reader, and as a woman, I was rooting for Jenny to reclaim that part of her life back that was so savagely ripped from her. She was so brave and so strong, yet she was also vulnerable. I love that she had loving support from her friends, and that she was finally willing to explore one more very important step in her recovery/healing process.
Who better to help her than former Army Ranger, Chris Brooker? He had the ability to read deep emotional and physical trauma and was able to make himself approachable enough for her to trust him. When Jenny finally decided that Chris was the one, she went to his place to ask him the most difficult question of her life. But when she arrived, there was another woman (obviously a one-night stand) coming out of his place. Ugh! Yet, Jenny gathered up her courage and soldiered on.
Now, when I read this "morning after hook-up scene" the first time, I was a little disappointed with Chris. He'd been the only man Jenny had allowed close to her since what happened to her. He obviously cared so much for her and was crazy about her, so I was expecting him to have kept himself chaste for her. I know, I know...wishful thinking right?! But I guess I could see from Chris's standpoint that he never expected to have a relationship with Jenny that reached a normal physical level. He knew without being told that she had been hurt, and I guess he thought that no man, let alone he, stood a chance with Jenny. I mean, he had never touched her and she never allowed men to touch her either; not even to hold hands. It was obvious to all who knew her that she tremendously feared men. Being the kind and wonderful man he was, he would never have pushed her for something she wasn't comfortable with, so what hope did Chris have of being anything more than her friend?
Anyway, as the book moved forward, Chris was amazing. He was attentive, genuinely concerned, and caring. He was so patient and willing to do whatever Jenny needed to become a woman who enjoyed physical touch and sex again. But in Chris's vulnerable state, his own fears where she was concerned was warranted. He didn't want to become another man that hurt her. Chris anguishly thought to himself:
"You're asking a man who's in love with you to hurt you, to scare you. You're asking me to go against every single f****** instinct that I have where you're concerned-and you say it's to help you. F***. What am I going to do?"
I thought his vulnerabilty was real and raw, and it was so endearing that he cared that deeply about how the change in their relationship would affect her mentally and emotionally.
The book is a standalone--sort of--and would have been okay without the snippets of the other characters'/couples' lives. If this was a reader's first time reading a book by Ms.James, this would possibly throw them off, even though Ms. James does a great job briefly introducing a little of what was going on with each couple, or soon-to-be couple. I've read the others, so I was familiar with everyone.
But I'm definitely a fan, and I loved that Chris and Jenny were able to get their HEA after all they'd been through. I admire Ms. James's bravery and talent in taking on these types of delicate issues in her books.
What I love about her writing on these serious subject matters is that it's always handled with much respect yet so eye-opening and very emotional. Admittedly, sometimes talking about this type of trauma can be uncomfortable, but I was drawn to Jenny's story and wanted to know more.
What happened to Jenny six years ago was extremely traumatic, but Ms. James deals with it on a level that's so amazing. As a reader, and as a woman, I was rooting for Jenny to reclaim that part of her life back that was so savagely ripped from her. She was so brave and so strong, yet she was also vulnerable. I love that she had loving support from her friends, and that she was finally willing to explore one more very important step in her recovery/healing process.
Who better to help her than former Army Ranger, Chris Brooker? He had the ability to read deep emotional and physical trauma and was able to make himself approachable enough for her to trust him. When Jenny finally decided that Chris was the one, she went to his place to ask him the most difficult question of her life. But when she arrived, there was another woman (obviously a one-night stand) coming out of his place. Ugh! Yet, Jenny gathered up her courage and soldiered on.
Now, when I read this "morning after hook-up scene" the first time, I was a little disappointed with Chris. He'd been the only man Jenny had allowed close to her since what happened to her. He obviously cared so much for her and was crazy about her, so I was expecting him to have kept himself chaste for her. I know, I know...wishful thinking right?! But I guess I could see from Chris's standpoint that he never expected to have a relationship with Jenny that reached a normal physical level. He knew without being told that she had been hurt, and I guess he thought that no man, let alone he, stood a chance with Jenny. I mean, he had never touched her and she never allowed men to touch her either; not even to hold hands. It was obvious to all who knew her that she tremendously feared men. Being the kind and wonderful man he was, he would never have pushed her for something she wasn't comfortable with, so what hope did Chris have of being anything more than her friend?
Anyway, as the book moved forward, Chris was amazing. He was attentive, genuinely concerned, and caring. He was so patient and willing to do whatever Jenny needed to become a woman who enjoyed physical touch and sex again. But in Chris's vulnerable state, his own fears where she was concerned was warranted. He didn't want to become another man that hurt her. Chris anguishly thought to himself:
"You're asking a man who's in love with you to hurt you, to scare you. You're asking me to go against every single f****** instinct that I have where you're concerned-and you say it's to help you. F***. What am I going to do?"
I thought his vulnerabilty was real and raw, and it was so endearing that he cared that deeply about how the change in their relationship would affect her mentally and emotionally.
The book is a standalone--sort of--and would have been okay without the snippets of the other characters'/couples' lives. If this was a reader's first time reading a book by Ms.James, this would possibly throw them off, even though Ms. James does a great job briefly introducing a little of what was going on with each couple, or soon-to-be couple. I've read the others, so I was familiar with everyone.
But I'm definitely a fan, and I loved that Chris and Jenny were able to get their HEA after all they'd been through. I admire Ms. James's bravery and talent in taking on these types of delicate issues in her books.
December 6, 2015
This is part of a series. I picked it because it was free, and to see if I liked it well enough to check out the rest of the series. There was a note on the purchase page that said it could be read as a standalone. I disagree, it really doesn't work. Chapter four opens with a sex scene between Emma and Dean (who?) and then proceeds to go into a boring bit about her medical bills and insurance woes (what?). Chapter six has a sex scene between Dallas and Olivia (again, who?), and then another one later. Who are these people? Why am I reading about their sex lives? Why aren't these scenes in their own books? Considering how short this book is (only 12 chapters), way too much time is spent on other characters. It didn't make me want to read the other books, it just made me annoyed.
I'd barely made it five minutes into this book when Chris makes his first appearance. I'm supposed to like this douchebag who can't remember the name of the woman he brought home to have sex with? The same douchebag who didn't do "repeat performances"? Ugh. He practically shoves her out the door when Jenny (you know, the non-slut who doesn't do one night stands) comes by. Double ugh. Men who call women "baby" when they aren't even dating make my teeth grind. It's creepy.
The amount of time the guys (who, again, all have back stories I didn't really understand) spend sitting around talking about their feelings was ridiculous. And cheesy. So very cheesy. Especially when there were several passages that described them as "dangerous, violent" and "trained killers". Even in fiction, I just can't. And they all seem to be attracted to women who are quite damaged/broken.
What happened to Jenny was horrific and heartbreaking, but the explanation of why the criminals got off almost completely made no sense.
There were some sweet scenes between Jenny and Chris (not enough to make me forget his douchebag behavior at the beginning), but other than sex and him making her feel safe, I didn't see enough of a connection.
I'd barely made it five minutes into this book when Chris makes his first appearance. I'm supposed to like this douchebag who can't remember the name of the woman he brought home to have sex with? The same douchebag who didn't do "repeat performances"? Ugh. He practically shoves her out the door when Jenny (you know, the non-slut who doesn't do one night stands) comes by. Double ugh. Men who call women "baby" when they aren't even dating make my teeth grind. It's creepy.
The amount of time the guys (who, again, all have back stories I didn't really understand) spend sitting around talking about their feelings was ridiculous. And cheesy. So very cheesy. Especially when there were several passages that described them as "dangerous, violent" and "trained killers". Even in fiction, I just can't. And they all seem to be attracted to women who are quite damaged/broken.
What happened to Jenny was horrific and heartbreaking, but the explanation of why the criminals got off almost completely made no sense.
There were some sweet scenes between Jenny and Chris (not enough to make me forget his douchebag behavior at the beginning), but other than sex and him making her feel safe, I didn't see enough of a connection.
August 16, 2015
Good addition to the series
This is one series that I think it really helps to read all the books in order. Luckily, I really enjoy this author's writing style, and they have all been fast, entertaining reads. There seems to be an ongoing story arc between the books, with one couple being spotlighted, but the other characters have their own moments within each book. This one has an interesting take on a VERY heavy subject matter, and I thought it was very well done. The H is incredibly patient, and sweet, and I really liked this couple together. One of my favorite of this series.
This is one series that I think it really helps to read all the books in order. Luckily, I really enjoy this author's writing style, and they have all been fast, entertaining reads. There seems to be an ongoing story arc between the books, with one couple being spotlighted, but the other characters have their own moments within each book. This one has an interesting take on a VERY heavy subject matter, and I thought it was very well done. The H is incredibly patient, and sweet, and I really liked this couple together. One of my favorite of this series.
October 1, 2015
3 1/2 stars
Jenny and Chris. So sweet and tender. I wondered how the author would play this out considering Jenny's past trauma. It was a slow progression as Chris helps Jenny. I liked how Chris was already in love (secretly) with her and admits it to himself right up front. I also love that the author didn't throw in some traumatic event just to create drama or separation of the two.
It's great the way the author checks in with the previous couples and their relationships while they all still support one another. This is a worthy series. Next up Jim and Kat, I've already started it.
Jenny and Chris. So sweet and tender. I wondered how the author would play this out considering Jenny's past trauma. It was a slow progression as Chris helps Jenny. I liked how Chris was already in love (secretly) with her and admits it to himself right up front. I also love that the author didn't throw in some traumatic event just to create drama or separation of the two.
It's great the way the author checks in with the previous couples and their relationships while they all still support one another. This is a worthy series. Next up Jim and Kat, I've already started it.
March 29, 2015
Another great installment in this series. Highlight of this story is definitely the characters. Marysol James knows how to write sweet yet sexy alphas and likeable and strong heroines.
Even though this is a standalone this is one of this series that must be read in order to understand what is going on.
Safety group note
Even though this is a standalone this is one of this series that must be read in order to understand what is going on.
Safety group note
December 8, 2014
Once again, the ending keeps the book from being five stars. For the majority of it, it's a great read, but like the other books in the series I feel like the end is rushed and kind of left hanging. But like the other books I know Jenny and Chris' story will com it he on in book four. I have really enjoyed getting to know all of these characters. Can't wait to find out who and what Kat is running from and how Jim will help her.
January 24, 2015
Been waiting for this one and best one so far emotionally. Not as steamy more sweet but the build up was awesome and it wasn't true love fixed it in one day this too many months to a year probably (don't really say but mention months passing). Also again updates on previous stories a little more since too stories but it advanced this couples story too so not that upset about it.
Now on to Kat and her possible mystery.
Now on to Kat and her possible mystery.
September 14, 2015
Beautiful Love
Reading Jenny's journey to recover a tragedy she went thru and finding someone like Chris to love and trust is just WOW! I have enjoyed reading their journey to discover love and forgiveness. This is the third book in this series I have read so far and I am truly enjoying these stories they are full of strong friendships with strong alpha males who find the love's of their lives I can't wait to read book four. Happy Reading!!
Reading Jenny's journey to recover a tragedy she went thru and finding someone like Chris to love and trust is just WOW! I have enjoyed reading their journey to discover love and forgiveness. This is the third book in this series I have read so far and I am truly enjoying these stories they are full of strong friendships with strong alpha males who find the love's of their lives I can't wait to read book four. Happy Reading!!
October 18, 2015
4.5 Stars
Once again another great read in this series. I love that all the characters feature throughout the books so we get continuous updates on all the couples even after their own books are finished.
This one was a slow burner and Chris was so gentle and patient with Jenny I adored these two together. Jenny was completely broken and it was lovely to see Chris put her back together.
Once again another great read in this series. I love that all the characters feature throughout the books so we get continuous updates on all the couples even after their own books are finished.
This one was a slow burner and Chris was so gentle and patient with Jenny I adored these two together. Jenny was completely broken and it was lovely to see Chris put her back together.
October 13, 2015
This has been my favorite book in the series, for many reasons! First of all, the author has taken her time with each character, and we see that in this book. Secondly, I felt a little uncomfortable reading about Jenny and Chris' intimate moments. I felt like I shouldn't be reading it, but at the same time, the sex scenes were very well written, and intimate. Sweet. It wasn't a bad uncomfortable per say, it was like I shouldn't be involved or reading such intimate moments. Very well done!
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