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Stand - Part Two
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2026
About the author
Jay Marie
8 books641 followersJay Marie has been writing since she first learned the alphabet, but it wasn’t until 25 years later that she finally decided to take the deep plunge into the depths of publishing. Her written work conveys the darker side of writing, bringing in to light what most may shy away from. She has a passion for writing strong female characters with a brain that can override their sex drives, deliver one hell of a punch as well as take one. They have backbones made of steel and hearts that beat with a ferocity that refuses to be tamed or matched.
Her inspiration comes in the form of a minefield on top of a snow covered mountain. One step and a new idea explodes in her head, and then before you know it, she has an avalanche of ideas rushing through her brain and it does not stop!
When she's not writing until the late hours of the night, she's working as a legal assistant at a personal injury law firm in Michigan. She is also a part time law student at the University of Detroit Mercy Law School where she studies in the evening in hopes of becoming a human rights attorney. She enjoys practicing and teaching martial arts in her spare time as well as riding around on her super fun Honda Grom motorcycle.
If you'd like to connect with her more, check out her author page on Facebook where she posts occasional teasers of her upcoming books!
https://www.facebook.com/JMarieSeries/
Her inspiration comes in the form of a minefield on top of a snow covered mountain. One step and a new idea explodes in her head, and then before you know it, she has an avalanche of ideas rushing through her brain and it does not stop!
When she's not writing until the late hours of the night, she's working as a legal assistant at a personal injury law firm in Michigan. She is also a part time law student at the University of Detroit Mercy Law School where she studies in the evening in hopes of becoming a human rights attorney. She enjoys practicing and teaching martial arts in her spare time as well as riding around on her super fun Honda Grom motorcycle.
If you'd like to connect with her more, check out her author page on Facebook where she posts occasional teasers of her upcoming books!
https://www.facebook.com/JMarieSeries/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
February 17, 2026
what a beautifully tragic yet deeply fulfilling ending. i’ve read hundreds of books, but jaden wilder remains the best fmc i’ve ever come across. i’m truly going to mourn this series. jay marie … the woman you are. thank you for writing plots, not tropes. ❤️🩹
February 14, 2026
"Hello, princess!"🤭
Yes, I wholeheartedly recommend the series. Arm yourself with patience and nerves,it will be a real rollercoaster ride.
I didn't expect a different ending. The story was really about Jaden and her struggle for survival and eradication of the "dragon," even though it was a long, hard road fighting a crazy, intelligent psychopath, a sexy devil who made it impossible to forget him and move on.
I'm really looking forward to Marie Jay's next book. It was and will remain one of the most unforgettable series for me.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Yes, I wholeheartedly recommend the series. Arm yourself with patience and nerves,it will be a real rollercoaster ride.
I didn't expect a different ending. The story was really about Jaden and her struggle for survival and eradication of the "dragon," even though it was a long, hard road fighting a crazy, intelligent psychopath, a sexy devil who made it impossible to forget him and move on.
I'm really looking forward to Marie Jay's next book. It was and will remain one of the most unforgettable series for me.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 1, 2026
I… I’m honestly at a complete loss for words. The emotional whirlwind this series has taken me on is beyond anything I could have imagined. I’ve waited almost six years for this ending, and while the wait was agonizing, the payoff was nothing short of legendary. My heart was racing, my anxiety through the roof—this was a tension-filled ride that grabbed me by the chest and refused to let go.
This finale is everything. EVERYTHING. Loose ends tied, every plot point exploding with chaos and fire. Just when you think you know what’s coming… think again. Be prepared to be shattered, wrecked, and left breathless. And yes, it got bloody. So bloody.
Jaden, Sloane, Jason, Sid… I love them all. Every heartbeat, every feral, unrelenting spark of Jaden’s soul will haunt me forever. Sloane? A goddess of badassery I’ll never stop idolizing. Jason....Jason, loyalty no words can explain. And Sid? Just chaos, but he came through in the end. As for Darren… I can’t even—hate him with all I am.
This series is now complete, and my heart aches. Truly mournful. Jay Marie, you didn’t just write characters—you breathed life into them. You gave us plots, not tired tropes, and the depth of your storytelling has left an indelible mark on me.
This ending was beautifully tragic, devastatingly satisfying, and utterly perfect. I’ve read hundreds of books, but Jaden Wilder will forever remain the most feral, unforgettable, and unforgettable FMC I have ever encountered. My soul is still reeling, my chest still tight. I am broken… and so grateful.
Thank you, Jay Marie. For six years of hell, heartbreak, and sheer exhilaration. For making me feel every slash of adrenaline, every pulse of love and pain, every bloody triumph. This series is immortal. ❤️🩹
Go read this series now.
5 stars
This finale is everything. EVERYTHING. Loose ends tied, every plot point exploding with chaos and fire. Just when you think you know what’s coming… think again. Be prepared to be shattered, wrecked, and left breathless. And yes, it got bloody. So bloody.
Jaden, Sloane, Jason, Sid… I love them all. Every heartbeat, every feral, unrelenting spark of Jaden’s soul will haunt me forever. Sloane? A goddess of badassery I’ll never stop idolizing. Jason....Jason, loyalty no words can explain. And Sid? Just chaos, but he came through in the end. As for Darren… I can’t even—hate him with all I am.
This series is now complete, and my heart aches. Truly mournful. Jay Marie, you didn’t just write characters—you breathed life into them. You gave us plots, not tired tropes, and the depth of your storytelling has left an indelible mark on me.
This ending was beautifully tragic, devastatingly satisfying, and utterly perfect. I’ve read hundreds of books, but Jaden Wilder will forever remain the most feral, unforgettable, and unforgettable FMC I have ever encountered. My soul is still reeling, my chest still tight. I am broken… and so grateful.
Thank you, Jay Marie. For six years of hell, heartbreak, and sheer exhilaration. For making me feel every slash of adrenaline, every pulse of love and pain, every bloody triumph. This series is immortal. ❤️🩹
Go read this series now.
5 stars
February 13, 2026
I can’t believe it’s over, couldn’t function properly until I was done, that’s how good it was, I was biting my nails and at the edge of my bed, I needed to know who’ll died, and Jesus it was so emotional and exciting, absolutely a roller coaster, Jay made me feel everything from disgusted to angry, sad, confused and then happiness.
I didn’t see it coming what Sid did to helped Jaden, although I was kinda suspicious with the whole machine thing.
I was feeling disappointed with her not being pregnant, I have been waiting for her to be pregnant with Darren’s child since book 1.
But I get it, it was the last FU to Darren.
This book is a masterpiece, absolutely brilliant.
I can’t wait to read more of Jay Marie, she blows me away.
Thank you for this Jay!!
You never disappoint
I didn’t see it coming what Sid did to helped Jaden, although I was kinda suspicious with the whole machine thing.
I was feeling disappointed with her not being pregnant, I have been waiting for her to be pregnant with Darren’s child since book 1.
But I get it, it was the last FU to Darren.
This book is a masterpiece, absolutely brilliant.
I can’t wait to read more of Jay Marie, she blows me away.
Thank you for this Jay!!
You never disappoint
February 15, 2026
Wow. Wowowow. Will I ever stop crying? I don’t know. But what am I supposed to do with myself now that this series is over? That could not have ended better. This series absolutely tore me apart. Brilliant. It’s been a long time since any series has been my Roman Empire like this. I will never recover.
February 14, 2026
Disappointed. All too convenient, unrealistic, unbelievable and rushed for what was a series I could not get enough of.
February 16, 2026
It’s finally over! The journey has been a rollercoaster ride, but a certain plot reveal has been a tad disappointing.
Spoilers
The reason for the slight disappointment was Jaden not being pregnant. After so much anticipation and buildup about her future pregnancy and motherhood throughout the series, her fake pregnancy reveal in the story dampened the emotional stakes and desperation. The implication in Part 1 about a mother’s love for her child being the most dangerous weapon went nowhere. So, all that pregnancy development amounted to nothing and it sort of lessened the impact and finality of Jaden and Darren’s complex relationship, imo.
I preferred an ending where Jaden would provide their baby a caring and loving childhood, and their kid grew up into a strong and normal adult, profoundly different from Darren since he’d be dead. This way, Jaden gave Darren and his father’s legacy of generational trauma and toxic patriarchy the final middle finger. Alas, it was not my story and ending.
Despite that underwhelming development, the ending was still satisfying overall. Darren deserved what was coming to him, but this series didn’t need to be 6 books.
Spoilers
The reason for the slight disappointment was Jaden not being pregnant. After so much anticipation and buildup about her future pregnancy and motherhood throughout the series, her fake pregnancy reveal in the story dampened the emotional stakes and desperation. The implication in Part 1 about a mother’s love for her child being the most dangerous weapon went nowhere. So, all that pregnancy development amounted to nothing and it sort of lessened the impact and finality of Jaden and Darren’s complex relationship, imo.
I preferred an ending where Jaden would provide their baby a caring and loving childhood, and their kid grew up into a strong and normal adult, profoundly different from Darren since he’d be dead. This way, Jaden gave Darren and his father’s legacy of generational trauma and toxic patriarchy the final middle finger. Alas, it was not my story and ending.
Despite that underwhelming development, the ending was still satisfying overall. Darren deserved what was coming to him, but this series didn’t need to be 6 books.
April 12, 2026
As you probably expected,i inhaled Stand Part Two.
Savored every second,because this was the part where everything had to work out the way it had to.
And now i’m finished…..reliving everything that happened during the series,over and over.
When i stumbled across it all those years ago,i never expected it to have such a great impact on me,but it did….and then some!
The world of human trafficking is a brutal one,and while Jay Marie painted a grim picture of what happened in this series,i know it’s a realistic one.
Sadly,there are sick people out there in the real world,people that enjoy owning,abusing,torturing and raping other people.
Just because we’re lucky enough not to become victims of these people,or see it in our own social circles,doesn’t mean it isn’t happening.
And that’s a realisation that’s painful…..
As it is,Jaden managed to not only survive,but to orchestrate the demise of an organisation run by the man foolish enough to think he owned her while doing it.
She may not have had any power,she may have been at Darren’s mercy all those years,but she was wicked smart.
And she took the few opportunities she had to share the important things she found out about his operation.
Sure,she had to suffer Darren’s abuse,and it nearly killed her more than once.
But even though she ended up with a list of trauma’s that hurt like hell,she grew stronger as well.
And she needed that strenght when the day of reckoning finally arrived…..
Even though i was prepared for the final battle to be brutal,there were still some surprises.
People that turned out to be tougher then i’d hoped.
People that turned out to be even worse then i’d feared.
But also people that turned out to be more decent then i thought.
And in the end,looking back,i can say this was a rollercoaster ride that i feel had the perfect conclusion.
Savored every second,because this was the part where everything had to work out the way it had to.
And now i’m finished…..reliving everything that happened during the series,over and over.
When i stumbled across it all those years ago,i never expected it to have such a great impact on me,but it did….and then some!
The world of human trafficking is a brutal one,and while Jay Marie painted a grim picture of what happened in this series,i know it’s a realistic one.
Sadly,there are sick people out there in the real world,people that enjoy owning,abusing,torturing and raping other people.
Just because we’re lucky enough not to become victims of these people,or see it in our own social circles,doesn’t mean it isn’t happening.
And that’s a realisation that’s painful…..
As it is,Jaden managed to not only survive,but to orchestrate the demise of an organisation run by the man foolish enough to think he owned her while doing it.
She may not have had any power,she may have been at Darren’s mercy all those years,but she was wicked smart.
And she took the few opportunities she had to share the important things she found out about his operation.
Sure,she had to suffer Darren’s abuse,and it nearly killed her more than once.
But even though she ended up with a list of trauma’s that hurt like hell,she grew stronger as well.
And she needed that strenght when the day of reckoning finally arrived…..
Even though i was prepared for the final battle to be brutal,there were still some surprises.
People that turned out to be tougher then i’d hoped.
People that turned out to be even worse then i’d feared.
But also people that turned out to be more decent then i thought.
And in the end,looking back,i can say this was a rollercoaster ride that i feel had the perfect conclusion.
February 14, 2026
Genius!!!
What ever I write will not describe adequately enough how brilliant this series is.
The quality of the story as it unfolds is top notch.
This series does not pull any punches, though, with a story wrapped around human trafficking, you can’t expect soft, warm, fluffy cuddles whilst reading. It’s brutal, gritty and shines a light on the most depraved parts of humanity.
The ending of the story was as I hoped…..lucky me!
I did read from start to finish and respected the time and work Jay Marie had put into these books….I did NOT peek at the ending and it made the journey so much more thrilling.
Thank you Jay Marie for your gift of time and talent that inspired my own little book club of friends, where we discussed and debated each book. Lots of snacks and wine was consumed whilst chewing over each character whilst pondering how it would all end.
Little spoiler ahead…..
Ultimately, I am a romantic fool wishing the last two characters left at the end could have had their own descriptive moment of consensual, sexual intimacy.
What ever I write will not describe adequately enough how brilliant this series is.
The quality of the story as it unfolds is top notch.
This series does not pull any punches, though, with a story wrapped around human trafficking, you can’t expect soft, warm, fluffy cuddles whilst reading. It’s brutal, gritty and shines a light on the most depraved parts of humanity.
The ending of the story was as I hoped…..lucky me!
I did read from start to finish and respected the time and work Jay Marie had put into these books….I did NOT peek at the ending and it made the journey so much more thrilling.
Thank you Jay Marie for your gift of time and talent that inspired my own little book club of friends, where we discussed and debated each book. Lots of snacks and wine was consumed whilst chewing over each character whilst pondering how it would all end.
Little spoiler ahead…..
Ultimately, I am a romantic fool wishing the last two characters left at the end could have had their own descriptive moment of consensual, sexual intimacy.
February 26, 2026
It's over. A chance encounter discovering the first book about 8 years ago has turned into one of the greatest series' I've ever read. And, to me, it was well worth the wait. You are a literary genius, Jay Marie, and truly a badass.
February 13, 2026
❤️❤️❤️
Read
March 17, 2026My soul is wrecked. I'll be on a depressive streak for the next few days. I wish I never picked this series up and then crazily waited for it for years. But still it's one of the few things I'll never forget.
February 28, 2026
And the saga concludes beautifully. BRAVO!
When you get hooked into a story like this one, you TRUST the author to deliver a satisfying end. And boy did Jay Marie bring it. I love that book 5 wasn't rushed, that it's 2 parts, that the pieces had to come together in real-time, that relationships changed authentically and that bad people didnt suddenly sprout souls. I was constantly stressed about Darren figuring out Jaden's deception. I love the way Jaden stays Jaden and Darren stays Darren, but with the natural adjustments you have for people over time. Of course she was going to look to him for comfort on occasion, her strength isnt supernatural. Back in Book 2/3, I had no clue how Jaden would ever get out of his clutches and so huge kudos to the author for constructing the illegal/legal empire and letting us watch it very cleverly crumble.
When you get hooked into a story like this one, you TRUST the author to deliver a satisfying end. And boy did Jay Marie bring it. I love that book 5 wasn't rushed, that it's 2 parts, that the pieces had to come together in real-time, that relationships changed authentically and that bad people didnt suddenly sprout souls. I was constantly stressed about Darren figuring out Jaden's deception. I love the way Jaden stays Jaden and Darren stays Darren, but with the natural adjustments you have for people over time. Of course she was going to look to him for comfort on occasion, her strength isnt supernatural. Back in Book 2/3, I had no clue how Jaden would ever get out of his clutches and so huge kudos to the author for constructing the illegal/legal empire and letting us watch it very cleverly crumble.
February 15, 2026
I’ll admit I was Team Darren until the last book. But this book convinced me that the two couldn’t be together. Also made me really come to terms with how awful Darren is (ik ik ik). Also, I knew they weren’t going to end up together because of the foreshadowing in the previous books. But I am delulu when it comes to my romances. I think, after everything, realistically, it was the only way to go.
I also enjoyed the last epilogue a lot. A lot of dark romance books I just can’t imagine their life after (I know this isn’t a dark romance). But the epilogue was believable and a little sad and gave me a glimpse of her life and challenges afterwards.
The last line(hello princess) kind of fucked me up though.
Also I feel like everything up tied a little too nicely in the end.
I also enjoyed the last epilogue a lot. A lot of dark romance books I just can’t imagine their life after (I know this isn’t a dark romance). But the epilogue was believable and a little sad and gave me a glimpse of her life and challenges afterwards.
The last line(hello princess) kind of fucked me up though.
Also I feel like everything up tied a little too nicely in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2026
I received the ARC for the long awaited finale of the six book series, Stand Part II, and it was absolutely worth the wait! The conclusion was epic, intense, and everything this story deserved.
Jay has warned readers REPEATEDLY that this is a dark read, and she absolutely means it!! Please read the trigger warnings before diving in. This book contains non-con, torture, death, and animal abuse. It is not for the faint of heart.
If you thought Part I was intense, Part II takes it to another level entirely. The action is relentless. In Part I, I felt like Jaden held back, but in this book? She absolutely does not. All those years of aggression, endurance, and brutal training finally explode onto the page! She fully steps into her power, and it is unforgettable!
Be prepared for twists, manipulation, betrayal, bloodshed and moments that will leave you stunned. Darren’s obsession with his princess comes full circle in the most intense way. The question lingering through it all is will he truly get to possess her for eternity?
Congratulations to Jay Marie for finishing this epic journey. Wrapping up the Stronger Series couldn’t have been easy, but she delivered a conclusion that feels like she tried to give every reader something. It’s my favorite series, and now that it’s complete, it feels incredibly bittersweet.
Now the real struggle begins… finding another series that can even begin to compare to Jaden’s story.
Jay has warned readers REPEATEDLY that this is a dark read, and she absolutely means it!! Please read the trigger warnings before diving in. This book contains non-con, torture, death, and animal abuse. It is not for the faint of heart.
If you thought Part I was intense, Part II takes it to another level entirely. The action is relentless. In Part I, I felt like Jaden held back, but in this book? She absolutely does not. All those years of aggression, endurance, and brutal training finally explode onto the page! She fully steps into her power, and it is unforgettable!
Be prepared for twists, manipulation, betrayal, bloodshed and moments that will leave you stunned. Darren’s obsession with his princess comes full circle in the most intense way. The question lingering through it all is will he truly get to possess her for eternity?
Congratulations to Jay Marie for finishing this epic journey. Wrapping up the Stronger Series couldn’t have been easy, but she delivered a conclusion that feels like she tried to give every reader something. It’s my favorite series, and now that it’s complete, it feels incredibly bittersweet.
Now the real struggle begins… finding another series that can even begin to compare to Jaden’s story.
March 5, 2026
God what an ending! I was hooked till the last sentence, which left me wanting more. I was rooting for Jaden the whole time, and I did like the not so pretty reality of recovering from the intense trauma she experienced. The madness of Darren is also so compelling, and you weirdly root for him to have redemption and die at the same time. Bittersweet for this series to finally be done.
February 14, 2026
Que final!! El mejor para la serie!!
February 19, 2026
3.9 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this series overall, but this installment felt a little drawn out. The big FU finger the author gave in her dedication toward readers came off unnecessary, and even without following any Goodreads or author drama, it had bad energy that pulled me out of the story. Darren’s inner monologue became repetitive, circling the same thoughts from the last five books without adding anything new. I caught myself skimming, which was disappointing.
What I appreciated was the clear reminder that this is not a dark romance. The heroine does not magically fall in love after trauma, which felt refreshing and rare. The mental health elements were handled thoughtfully, and you can tell the research was done. The plot and the arc were original and strong, I just wish it had been tighter.
I really enjoyed this series overall, but this installment felt a little drawn out. The big FU finger the author gave in her dedication toward readers came off unnecessary, and even without following any Goodreads or author drama, it had bad energy that pulled me out of the story. Darren’s inner monologue became repetitive, circling the same thoughts from the last five books without adding anything new. I caught myself skimming, which was disappointing.
What I appreciated was the clear reminder that this is not a dark romance. The heroine does not magically fall in love after trauma, which felt refreshing and rare. The mental health elements were handled thoughtfully, and you can tell the research was done. The plot and the arc were original and strong, I just wish it had been tighter.
March 5, 2026
From an emotional standpoint, I thought this was pretty installment was pretty great, but from a plot standpoint it was just meh. Honestly there was so much potential to focus on some of the other characters, like Jason, Kayla, and even Matt.
Totally a missed opportunity to explore Jason's morality before he shows up at the end of the big battle especially with everyone warning Jaden that he wasn't the same. I think Jay Marie could've leaned into that more so that we the reader would also be unsure. I would have also liked to see more of Matt honestly to see more of his psychology. My read of him was that he was a less intelligent but similarly ruthless version of Darren, but idk it would have been interesting to see more. Especially more of the dynamic between Jason and Matt, as it was so obvious they were both planning on betraying each other, but I really love a "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" dynamic because I love when two people who hate each other team up because they despise someone else even more.
I also feel that by this point we knew who Jaden and Darren were, and it's been established that nothing is really going to change at this point. Especially Darren, he's a static character, we know he's pure evil and that he's not going to change that. I did think his reflection about whether he ever could have been a better person was interesting, as I wasn't expecting to get any more dimension to his character whatsoever, so while it was miniscule, it was still nice to see.
I thought his death scene was done very well actually. Jaden always had to be the one to kill him and I thought it made sense that he pulled the weapon out in the end. I also thought it was nice how there was that sense of stillness afterwards where Jaden had that moment of not knowing what to do, because there was all that momentum and buildup of what she'd been working to do for years and then it was just...over. Also when she stabbed him with the needle with that stuff from the first book, it was such an amazing full circle moment and just an awesome revenge. However, after I was like "hell yeah!!!!" I realized that it would've been smarter for the doctor guy (forgot his name) to put cyanide or some other poison in the syringe because obviously Darren was always going to be almost impossible to kill because he's such an expert fighter.
I have to say though, a bit too many fake-out deaths. I think there should be a limit on how many times you can do that. Jason I was expecting because we never actually saw his dead body on screen but Matt...? I understand the author wanted Kayla to be the one to kill him, but it was a bit too much.
Also to all the people who were "team Darren"...please reevaluate yourself.
Totally a missed opportunity to explore Jason's morality before he shows up at the end of the big battle especially with everyone warning Jaden that he wasn't the same. I think Jay Marie could've leaned into that more so that we the reader would also be unsure. I would have also liked to see more of Matt honestly to see more of his psychology. My read of him was that he was a less intelligent but similarly ruthless version of Darren, but idk it would have been interesting to see more. Especially more of the dynamic between Jason and Matt, as it was so obvious they were both planning on betraying each other, but I really love a "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" dynamic because I love when two people who hate each other team up because they despise someone else even more.
I also feel that by this point we knew who Jaden and Darren were, and it's been established that nothing is really going to change at this point. Especially Darren, he's a static character, we know he's pure evil and that he's not going to change that. I did think his reflection about whether he ever could have been a better person was interesting, as I wasn't expecting to get any more dimension to his character whatsoever, so while it was miniscule, it was still nice to see.
I thought his death scene was done very well actually. Jaden always had to be the one to kill him and I thought it made sense that he pulled the weapon out in the end. I also thought it was nice how there was that sense of stillness afterwards where Jaden had that moment of not knowing what to do, because there was all that momentum and buildup of what she'd been working to do for years and then it was just...over. Also when she stabbed him with the needle with that stuff from the first book, it was such an amazing full circle moment and just an awesome revenge. However, after I was like "hell yeah!!!!" I realized that it would've been smarter for the doctor guy (forgot his name) to put cyanide or some other poison in the syringe because obviously Darren was always going to be almost impossible to kill because he's such an expert fighter.
I have to say though, a bit too many fake-out deaths. I think there should be a limit on how many times you can do that. Jason I was expecting because we never actually saw his dead body on screen but Matt...? I understand the author wanted Kayla to be the one to kill him, but it was a bit too much.
Also to all the people who were "team Darren"...please reevaluate yourself.
Review of advance copy
Jay Marie did it again.
Stand Part II is, without a doubt, my favorite installment of the entire series. From start to finish, it’s gripping, explosive, and completely impossible to put down. Without giving anything away, this book takes everything we thought we knew and sharpens it into something even more powerful.
One of the most satisfying elements is watching how Jaden’s intelligence truly comes full circle. We’ve seen glimpses of her ability to manipulate situations in earlier books, but here? Everything clicks. The layers of strategy, patience, and quiet calculation finally reveal just how deeply she’s been playing the game. She’s not just strong, she’s strategic. A total powerhouse of a female lead. Watching her claim control of her own destiny is beyond satisfying.
I’ll admit, I selfishly wanted more Jason. There’s so much mystery around what he had to endure and the morally gray (or darker) paths he may have taken to get here. Even with limited page time, he absolutely commands attention. Every scene he’s in hits hard. He’s intense, dangerous, and undeniably compelling.
And Darren? Still completely unhinged. And frustrating. In the previous book, I found myself almost admiring how unapologetic he was about who he is. In this one, that intensity is pushed even further. The lengths he’s willing to go to in the name of revenge are both terrifying and captivating especially for Jaden because he’s obsessed with her. Even when manipulation is at play, his loyalty and obsession add a chaotic edge that keeps the tension razor-sharp.
This book is packed with twists and turns that genuinely caught me off guard. The pacing is relentless, the stakes feel real, and the emotional payoffs land exactly where they should. It’s a wild ride in the best way possible.
I loved every second of this book and the series as a whole. Jay Marie is an incredible storyteller who knows how to build complex characters, tension, and payoff without losing momentum. I can only hope there’s more to come because if this is the standard, I’ll be first in line for whatever she writes next.
Stand Part II is, without a doubt, my favorite installment of the entire series. From start to finish, it’s gripping, explosive, and completely impossible to put down. Without giving anything away, this book takes everything we thought we knew and sharpens it into something even more powerful.
One of the most satisfying elements is watching how Jaden’s intelligence truly comes full circle. We’ve seen glimpses of her ability to manipulate situations in earlier books, but here? Everything clicks. The layers of strategy, patience, and quiet calculation finally reveal just how deeply she’s been playing the game. She’s not just strong, she’s strategic. A total powerhouse of a female lead. Watching her claim control of her own destiny is beyond satisfying.
I’ll admit, I selfishly wanted more Jason. There’s so much mystery around what he had to endure and the morally gray (or darker) paths he may have taken to get here. Even with limited page time, he absolutely commands attention. Every scene he’s in hits hard. He’s intense, dangerous, and undeniably compelling.
And Darren? Still completely unhinged. And frustrating. In the previous book, I found myself almost admiring how unapologetic he was about who he is. In this one, that intensity is pushed even further. The lengths he’s willing to go to in the name of revenge are both terrifying and captivating especially for Jaden because he’s obsessed with her. Even when manipulation is at play, his loyalty and obsession add a chaotic edge that keeps the tension razor-sharp.
This book is packed with twists and turns that genuinely caught me off guard. The pacing is relentless, the stakes feel real, and the emotional payoffs land exactly where they should. It’s a wild ride in the best way possible.
I loved every second of this book and the series as a whole. Jay Marie is an incredible storyteller who knows how to build complex characters, tension, and payoff without losing momentum. I can only hope there’s more to come because if this is the standard, I’ll be first in line for whatever she writes next.
March 2, 2026
Heartbroken but in the best way possible
Ugh where do I begin on the review! First off, thank you Jay Marie. For more than just a great series but also for giving me something to help get through my everyday life struggles. This series is truly one I will ALWAYS recommend and NEVER forget. I’ve read a million different sex trafficking books but the way this one is so real and so raw throughout the entire series will always be burned into my brain. I found this series years ago when I was struggling with my mental health, I needed something to distract me from the constant panick attacks and the sickness I dealt with on a daily basis and let me tell you, these books have helped me more than any medication ever has. Which is a little fucked up because these books are a lot of fucked up and I was totally team Darren LOL but you ended this series in the best way possible no matter the outcome. I could go on forever with this review but thank you Jay Marie. Truly I am so thankful and I hope you find the time to write more because the way you write and the way you truly make us feel like we’re right there in all that agony with Jayden just makes me so excited to see what else that beautiful brain of yours can come up with!
Ugh where do I begin on the review! First off, thank you Jay Marie. For more than just a great series but also for giving me something to help get through my everyday life struggles. This series is truly one I will ALWAYS recommend and NEVER forget. I’ve read a million different sex trafficking books but the way this one is so real and so raw throughout the entire series will always be burned into my brain. I found this series years ago when I was struggling with my mental health, I needed something to distract me from the constant panick attacks and the sickness I dealt with on a daily basis and let me tell you, these books have helped me more than any medication ever has. Which is a little fucked up because these books are a lot of fucked up and I was totally team Darren LOL but you ended this series in the best way possible no matter the outcome. I could go on forever with this review but thank you Jay Marie. Truly I am so thankful and I hope you find the time to write more because the way you write and the way you truly make us feel like we’re right there in all that agony with Jayden just makes me so excited to see what else that beautiful brain of yours can come up with!
February 15, 2026
Spoiler alert !!!!!
Ahhhhhhhhh!!! I’m going down a rabbit hole here! Did Jay-Marie give both Team Darren and Team Jaden their perfect ending? I love Darren as a villain. I love that Jay-Marie never tried to make him redeemable. I did not want his death, but had come to accept that the likelihood was that he would die in this book, because as much as I love him as a character, Jaden needed to best him and escape. So I read his death scene and of course was gutted, but in the first epilogue I really accepted I think how much mental damage had been done to Jaden. Jason - sorry I just can’t bring myself to care. And then, AND THEN!!!!!!! The ending!!!!!! At first I thought it was they meet in the cosmos and blah blah BUT on another spoiler group someone just said imagine if his death never happened and this is like Jaden waking up from a coma to “Hello Princess”!!!!! I am down that rabbit hole! So have both Team Darren and Team Jaden got their perfect ending? And could there be an alternate ending still to be written? I love this series so much! Jay-Marie you are incredible!
Ahhhhhhhhh!!! I’m going down a rabbit hole here! Did Jay-Marie give both Team Darren and Team Jaden their perfect ending? I love Darren as a villain. I love that Jay-Marie never tried to make him redeemable. I did not want his death, but had come to accept that the likelihood was that he would die in this book, because as much as I love him as a character, Jaden needed to best him and escape. So I read his death scene and of course was gutted, but in the first epilogue I really accepted I think how much mental damage had been done to Jaden. Jason - sorry I just can’t bring myself to care. And then, AND THEN!!!!!!! The ending!!!!!! At first I thought it was they meet in the cosmos and blah blah BUT on another spoiler group someone just said imagine if his death never happened and this is like Jaden waking up from a coma to “Hello Princess”!!!!! I am down that rabbit hole! So have both Team Darren and Team Jaden got their perfect ending? And could there be an alternate ending still to be written? I love this series so much! Jay-Marie you are incredible!
February 15, 2026
Amazing
I really needed to think about what I was going to write to do justice to this book. I don’t have the words that would eloquently describe my feelings. First of all, I have been on this journey from the very beginning when Jay Marie released the first instalment of this amazing journey. She created two of the most unforgettable and formidable characters in this genre. I was always team Darren, he was suave, sophisticated and charming. But wicked and cruel with no remorse about the lives he ruined. I didn’t want him to kill his brother so brutally but it highlighted what a cruel person he really was. I’m sure he loved Jaden in his own twisted way. The ending was perfect, it had to be this way, he was unrepentant till the end, he had no regrets and stayed true to his character right till the end. Jaden was a kick ass heroine and I’m happy she got her freedom at last. Thank you Jay Marie, this series deserves 100 stars at least. You are a master of your craft and I cannot wait to see your next project.
I really needed to think about what I was going to write to do justice to this book. I don’t have the words that would eloquently describe my feelings. First of all, I have been on this journey from the very beginning when Jay Marie released the first instalment of this amazing journey. She created two of the most unforgettable and formidable characters in this genre. I was always team Darren, he was suave, sophisticated and charming. But wicked and cruel with no remorse about the lives he ruined. I didn’t want him to kill his brother so brutally but it highlighted what a cruel person he really was. I’m sure he loved Jaden in his own twisted way. The ending was perfect, it had to be this way, he was unrepentant till the end, he had no regrets and stayed true to his character right till the end. Jaden was a kick ass heroine and I’m happy she got her freedom at last. Thank you Jay Marie, this series deserves 100 stars at least. You are a master of your craft and I cannot wait to see your next project.
February 16, 2026
The ending... in my head, the whole epilogue is the effects of propofol because I refuse to accept anything else except that he is alive 😂
"Hello, princess."
I wish I could relive reading this series for the first time again, I can honestly say nothing comes close.
Darren is the red flag of red flags, the morally grey of morally grey men... nah, he's pitch black and Jaden is a beast.
Her fake pregnancy really was a big FUCK YOU to Darren in whole - I loved that this happened because it really brought forward the mind fuckery that Darren brought onto Jaden, how he warped her body and brain to be conditioned to him and then he had his mind fucked with 🙌
I'll be doing a re-read of this series every year, because I refuse to let this collect dust on my shelf till I die 💀
Kinda felt sorry for Darren in the end, he really was searching for love in his own twisted way, but I'm kind of glad it ended how it did?
Fuck knows, this book had my heart in a chokehold.
I'm just glad Camaro survived tbh 😂
"Hello, princess."
I wish I could relive reading this series for the first time again, I can honestly say nothing comes close.
Darren is the red flag of red flags, the morally grey of morally grey men... nah, he's pitch black and Jaden is a beast.
Her fake pregnancy really was a big FUCK YOU to Darren in whole - I loved that this happened because it really brought forward the mind fuckery that Darren brought onto Jaden, how he warped her body and brain to be conditioned to him and then he had his mind fucked with 🙌
I'll be doing a re-read of this series every year, because I refuse to let this collect dust on my shelf till I die 💀
Kinda felt sorry for Darren in the end, he really was searching for love in his own twisted way, but I'm kind of glad it ended how it did?
Fuck knows, this book had my heart in a chokehold.
I'm just glad Camaro survived tbh 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Standing Ovation 👏👏👏
Wow, what a wild ride! The story was gripping from start to finish and the ending was so satisfying. I'm still reeling from the finale. Jaden's character is on 🔥! Her strength and determination make her the epitome of girl power. I loved watching her promises unfold, and she absolutely delivered.
Darren's last lines in his final POV are poetic. I love them! I'm still speechless at how insane his obsession with Jaden is. I couldn't help but shake my head in awe, but I love it nonetheless because it heightens the tension, making the story even more intense! 😍
And the ending of the 2nd epilogue blew me away but, at the same time, cracked me up a bit. I was like, 'What the?! Noooooooo!' It left me wanting more.😆 But I know that would be the end of it. It's just Darren fullfilling his dark poetic promise to Jaden, "you will always be mine, in this plane or the next. Forever.” 😱
I also fell in love with the other characters, especially Sloane and Jason (ugh, he's the dream!). And Sid? respect!🤜
This series consumed my soul, and now my heart is grieving that our ultimate baddie's journey has ended. I definitely took my time reading and savoring each page because I knew once I was done, I’d never be able to read it again for the first time. 🥺
Thanks, Jay, for sharing this amazing roller coaster of a series! I'm looking forward to your next project, especially the ideas you shared in our FB group. ❤️
Wow, what a wild ride! The story was gripping from start to finish and the ending was so satisfying. I'm still reeling from the finale. Jaden's character is on 🔥! Her strength and determination make her the epitome of girl power. I loved watching her promises unfold, and she absolutely delivered.
Darren's last lines in his final POV are poetic. I love them! I'm still speechless at how insane his obsession with Jaden is. I couldn't help but shake my head in awe, but I love it nonetheless because it heightens the tension, making the story even more intense! 😍
And the ending of the 2nd epilogue blew me away but, at the same time, cracked me up a bit. I was like, 'What the?! Noooooooo!' It left me wanting more.😆 But I know that would be the end of it. It's just Darren fullfilling his dark poetic promise to Jaden, "you will always be mine, in this plane or the next. Forever.” 😱
I also fell in love with the other characters, especially Sloane and Jason (ugh, he's the dream!). And Sid? respect!🤜
This series consumed my soul, and now my heart is grieving that our ultimate baddie's journey has ended. I definitely took my time reading and savoring each page because I knew once I was done, I’d never be able to read it again for the first time. 🥺
Thanks, Jay, for sharing this amazing roller coaster of a series! I'm looking forward to your next project, especially the ideas you shared in our FB group. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
👏She👏Did👏Her👏Thang👏
I was stunned! This epic conclusion to the series left me in an emotional state but this was absolutely the ending it deserved!
Everything came together so well, loose ends were tied up, everyone went crazy, and it got BlOODY! Just when you think everything is going to go down, think again, and then be prepared to get wrecked.
I know the whole series has been a ride, but this final book still is VERY heavy so check your triggers.
I also loved a lot of the final character developments in this. Sloane is such a badass ❤ I wish we had even more of her. Jaden will always be one of the most feral and best FMCs to me.
I can't wait to see everyones reactions to the bonus epilogue because that sent me into orbit!!! AHHHHHHH This book was so great thank you Jay Marie for an amazing series ♥♥
I was stunned! This epic conclusion to the series left me in an emotional state but this was absolutely the ending it deserved!
Everything came together so well, loose ends were tied up, everyone went crazy, and it got BlOODY! Just when you think everything is going to go down, think again, and then be prepared to get wrecked.
I know the whole series has been a ride, but this final book still is VERY heavy so check your triggers.
I also loved a lot of the final character developments in this. Sloane is such a badass ❤ I wish we had even more of her. Jaden will always be one of the most feral and best FMCs to me.
I can't wait to see everyones reactions to the bonus epilogue because that sent me into orbit!!! AHHHHHHH This book was so great thank you Jay Marie for an amazing series ♥♥
February 13, 2026
Jay Marie delivers a powerful continuation in Stand – Part Two, expanding the emotional and narrative stakes introduced in the first installment. With a deft balance of character driven tension and layered plot developments, the story draws readers deeper into a world of personal struggle, resilience, and transformative choices.
What stands out most is the depth of character growth. Each protagonist faces moral, emotional, and relational challenges that feel authentic and earned. The pacing is steady yet compelling, with moments of high drama interspersed with reflective introspection, keeping the reader both engaged and emotionally invested.
Fans of contemporary fiction with rich character arcs and interwoven relational dynamics will find this second installment satisfying. It’s a story about perseverance, identity, and the subtle yet profound ways personal decisions shape lives.
What stands out most is the depth of character growth. Each protagonist faces moral, emotional, and relational challenges that feel authentic and earned. The pacing is steady yet compelling, with moments of high drama interspersed with reflective introspection, keeping the reader both engaged and emotionally invested.
Fans of contemporary fiction with rich character arcs and interwoven relational dynamics will find this second installment satisfying. It’s a story about perseverance, identity, and the subtle yet profound ways personal decisions shape lives.
February 14, 2026
Glad ur back
I was one who criticized not finishing ur book but now I understand that life got in the way. I'm sorry. I loved the book for many reasons. I occasionally read romance but they are all the same. Same plot, same characters different names. This book was different. I guessed the end after the appearance of Jason so I waited for u to write the end. The book is well written making it easy to follow and pulling me in. The book at times made me think this was true and the story was real life. Very few faction book can do this. I was disappointed in the F word was used so much and I was surprised to read the ending. Most writers don't write ending like this. I liked it. Life goes on! Thanks for finishing the book. I hope u read this. I think u did a wonderful job.
I was one who criticized not finishing ur book but now I understand that life got in the way. I'm sorry. I loved the book for many reasons. I occasionally read romance but they are all the same. Same plot, same characters different names. This book was different. I guessed the end after the appearance of Jason so I waited for u to write the end. The book is well written making it easy to follow and pulling me in. The book at times made me think this was true and the story was real life. Very few faction book can do this. I was disappointed in the F word was used so much and I was surprised to read the ending. Most writers don't write ending like this. I liked it. Life goes on! Thanks for finishing the book. I hope u read this. I think u did a wonderful job.
February 21, 2026
A satisfying conclusion to the series. Part two was much better than part one (it could have been trimmed). It was very dramatic and Hollywoodish, but I had a good time.
February 15, 2026
I found this series while just searching through kindle books online and downloading whatever looked good. I am so glad I found this series! I tore through it in a matter of 11 days. Jay Marie is so talented and makes such badass characters. Jayden never lost her fight and it paid off. As much as I loved Darren, he was such a hard character to love. All I could do was cheer for Jayden every time she made another step toward her ultimate goal. And I loved how she gained allies. She was such a strong character that I couldn't help but love. I had a hard time saying goodbye to her... maybe?
Jay Marie, thank you for sharing your work. I am so happy I just happened to stumble upon it. It is by far my favorite series I have ever read. 🖤
Jay Marie, thank you for sharing your work. I am so happy I just happened to stumble upon it. It is by far my favorite series I have ever read. 🖤
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