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Stronger #3
Spark
Warning: This story is for mature adults only. It contains violence, mature and explicit content and non-consensual/dubious, graphic sexual activity that some readers may find upsetting. This is a dark erotic thriller, not to be confused with a dark romance.
HER
There are not enough words to describe my internal torment. I knew there would be consequences for what I did. I knew this would be hard. But it’s so much harder than I ever want to admit. Physically broken, mentally drained, and legally dead, I now find myself wasting away on an island in the middle of the Bahamas. Darren has left me in isolation for my own recovery and the only thing I can be grateful for is the fact that my isolation includes him. But I know he won’t be able to stay away for long. Eventually he’ll be back to reclaim what’s his and remind me of all the things I hate about him. How he’s able to twist fear with pleasure to create the most destructive combination, how it rushes through my blood and simmers under my skin, making me come alive and burn for more. Sometimes I don’t know who I hate more, him or myself? After everything that’s happened, after everything I’ve allowed myself to feel, I deserve a little self-hatred. I can feel my will to continue fighting diminishing, the fire in my heart barely more than embers, but I promised Jason I would find him. I promised my family I would find a way back to them. Darren may own me, but he doesn’t own my intentions. And even though he may have broken my body, he will never break my will to survive. I’ll find a way. Somehow, I’ll find my way out of the dark, even if it’s with the tiniest little spark.
HIM
Nothing plagues my mind more than that goddamn, stubborn ass redhead. Too often, I find myself thinking of nothing else, and no matter how many miles I put between us to focus on my work, Jaden still finds a way to kick the damn door down and pull me under. I may not have been able to keep her out of my head, but I was able to keep her hidden away on my private island in the Bahamas. I wanted to ensure her recovery would remain uninterrupted from other potential distractions. It would be pretty tough to escape from an island in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by guards with broken bones and a broken ego. Jaden wasn’t going anywhere, not this time, not until I was ready to take her back with me. She had a lot to prove until then. I knew she was more than physically damaged. Her confidence in herself shattered the night I crushed her in my arms and I had a feeling it was going to take a lot of inner strength for her to put it back together. But that was the one thing I knew she had a never-ending supply of. Her strength was admirable and I was confident she’d find it again. I just had to make sure it lacked one thing when we eventually returned home – her desire to kill me. There were two ways I could accomplish that – positive reinforcement or negative reinforcement. I suppose the technique would depend on Jaden’s ability to adapt, but knowing her, I was going to have to fight this at every angle … and didn’t I always love a good fight.
*NOTE: For every book that is sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to a charity that benefits victims of human trafficking.*
HER
There are not enough words to describe my internal torment. I knew there would be consequences for what I did. I knew this would be hard. But it’s so much harder than I ever want to admit. Physically broken, mentally drained, and legally dead, I now find myself wasting away on an island in the middle of the Bahamas. Darren has left me in isolation for my own recovery and the only thing I can be grateful for is the fact that my isolation includes him. But I know he won’t be able to stay away for long. Eventually he’ll be back to reclaim what’s his and remind me of all the things I hate about him. How he’s able to twist fear with pleasure to create the most destructive combination, how it rushes through my blood and simmers under my skin, making me come alive and burn for more. Sometimes I don’t know who I hate more, him or myself? After everything that’s happened, after everything I’ve allowed myself to feel, I deserve a little self-hatred. I can feel my will to continue fighting diminishing, the fire in my heart barely more than embers, but I promised Jason I would find him. I promised my family I would find a way back to them. Darren may own me, but he doesn’t own my intentions. And even though he may have broken my body, he will never break my will to survive. I’ll find a way. Somehow, I’ll find my way out of the dark, even if it’s with the tiniest little spark.
HIM
Nothing plagues my mind more than that goddamn, stubborn ass redhead. Too often, I find myself thinking of nothing else, and no matter how many miles I put between us to focus on my work, Jaden still finds a way to kick the damn door down and pull me under. I may not have been able to keep her out of my head, but I was able to keep her hidden away on my private island in the Bahamas. I wanted to ensure her recovery would remain uninterrupted from other potential distractions. It would be pretty tough to escape from an island in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by guards with broken bones and a broken ego. Jaden wasn’t going anywhere, not this time, not until I was ready to take her back with me. She had a lot to prove until then. I knew she was more than physically damaged. Her confidence in herself shattered the night I crushed her in my arms and I had a feeling it was going to take a lot of inner strength for her to put it back together. But that was the one thing I knew she had a never-ending supply of. Her strength was admirable and I was confident she’d find it again. I just had to make sure it lacked one thing when we eventually returned home – her desire to kill me. There were two ways I could accomplish that – positive reinforcement or negative reinforcement. I suppose the technique would depend on Jaden’s ability to adapt, but knowing her, I was going to have to fight this at every angle … and didn’t I always love a good fight.
*NOTE: For every book that is sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to a charity that benefits victims of human trafficking.*
645 pages, Unknown Binding
First published December 30, 2016
127 people are currently reading
783 people want to read
About the author
Jay Marie
6 books616 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 131 reviews
December 31, 2016
Wow what another great journey with Darren and Jaden. This book will grip you and pull you in but be warned it has triggers and is dark! Darren is the asshole you can't help but love to hate and route for in his taming of Jaden. You also can't help but hope that all that fire Jaden has twists and burns for Darren in the end and that these two get there HEA. Only complaints I have is that it was left on a cliff hanger and I now have to wait for the next book STRIKE. It feels to long already!! I also can't help but have this horrible feeling that Darren might be killed right at the end!!!?? That would totally ruin this incredible series for me.
Please, please let that be my overactive imagination and not be the case!!!
Loving this series so far! Well done J.Marie for another awesome book.
Please, please let that be my overactive imagination and not be the case!!!
Loving this series so far! Well done J.Marie for another awesome book.
February 7, 2017
THIS REVIEW will be for the first three books in the series.
Many SPOILERS are included below:
I feel very conflicted about the characters and story.
What I liked about the heroine: she is loyal and passionate for those she loves She would die for her boyfriend and family. She has excellent self-esteem, more so than most heroines I have read about. She knows her worth. Her body is a machine that she values and takes great care of. She stands up for herself and others and is brave. She is like the Duracell Bunny. She keeps going and going no matter how many times she is knocked down. And she is constantly knocked down by the so-called hero and his goons.
What I disliked about the heroine: her strength of being tenacious is also her weakness because she takes it to the extreme. She fights things even to her detriment. She excises very little self-control despite her thinking otherwise. The heroine keeps fighting even though it is foolhardy to do so and causes herself and others a tremendous amount of pain due to her stupidity. I really wanted to slap her at times that is bad considering she was already the heroes punching bag. She is wishy washy about the hero. She feels she loves him and hates him in equal parts. I know that is typical for kidnap victims but it was still hard to read about.
What I liked about the hero: very little. I love jealous and possessive alpha males and he took it to the extreme. The hero was beyond possessed and after awhile felt like he could not breathe without her.
Also he was faithful which I always want the hero to be. Other women did not even register on his radar. They ceased to exist when he meet her despite the fact that some were beautiful and naked around them.
What I disliked about the hero: too much. He is not a hero no matter how loose the definition is. He is a sociopath. He feels no shame, guilt or remorse. He kills whomever he feels like especially if he perceives them as a threat to his relationship with the heroine. No one is safe including innocent men, women and children. Anyone who tries to help the heroine he automatic killed no hesitation on his part. He murders anyone that he perceives as a loss end including physical therapist that he hired to help the heroine recover after he beat her to a bloody mess and a tattoo artist he employed to brand her. He actively hunts for her family with the intend to kill them and make her watch including her boyfriend, parents, little brothers, aunts and because she loves them and he feels motivates her to try to escape him. He claims to love the heroine but because he is a psychopath he is incapable of doing so. A person does not beat someone they love to the point they almost kill them and repeatedly. He savagely beats her both deliberately and when he loses control. He is a sadist and conditions her to be a masochist. Like a true sociopath, he dominates others and wins at all costs, which he freely admits. Also he is intelligent and delusional, thinking that he can control every aspect of her life and take away all of her freedom and choice and that she will still be happy to be with him. He believes that after he fully trains her that she will embrace a life where she loves him, marries him, has his spawn and has a HEA with him.
What I liked about the first three books in the series: I could not stop reading. I read all three books without taking a break staying up to 8:00 a.m. and then without any sleep, went to work. There was the right number of sexy times to me throughout the first 3 books. The sex scenes that were not rape scenes were hot and plentiful but did not overshadow the story.
What I disliked about the first three books: the excessive amount of violence against the heroine and others. While it is not the most graphic I have read the fact that it was unrelenting was hard to take.
I will admit to skipping over some bloody scenes because at times, it was too much. The fight scenes between the hero and heroine were too many as well and too technical. I read that the author has a black belt or some color of belt (not to be offense but honestly they all seem the same to me) and that makes sense because the hero and heroine's moves are broken down to the molecular level. After the first book I skipped over some of those scenes as well and since the majority of their fight scenes were violent and resulted in blood shed it worked out well in terms of skimming parts. Also I wanted the heroine to try to escape more and actually be successfully. Sadly that did not happen. The times she tried to escape with the exception of 1 time were not well thought out but more spur of the moment escape attempts that were unsuccessful.
I will read the last book in the series when it comes out. This is one of the few times that I want the heroine to end up with someone else (the boyfriend would be a good choice agreed the readers get to know him) other than the hero AND I want the hero to die. The hero is not redeemable in my opinion. If he stays true to character then he will always be a psychopath and not capable of giving himself or anyone else a HEA. The heroine could never be happy being with him no matter how brain washed she is. He is a monster who will never feel things like remorse or love. Any spawn he has if raised by him will grow up to be monsters too. For the good of society he needs to be put down and if this were reality and not romanceland he would eventually either be killed or locked up the rest of his life and that would be a true HEA to this story.
Many SPOILERS are included below:
I feel very conflicted about the characters and story.
What I liked about the heroine: she is loyal and passionate for those she loves She would die for her boyfriend and family. She has excellent self-esteem, more so than most heroines I have read about. She knows her worth. Her body is a machine that she values and takes great care of. She stands up for herself and others and is brave. She is like the Duracell Bunny. She keeps going and going no matter how many times she is knocked down. And she is constantly knocked down by the so-called hero and his goons.
What I disliked about the heroine: her strength of being tenacious is also her weakness because she takes it to the extreme. She fights things even to her detriment. She excises very little self-control despite her thinking otherwise. The heroine keeps fighting even though it is foolhardy to do so and causes herself and others a tremendous amount of pain due to her stupidity. I really wanted to slap her at times that is bad considering she was already the heroes punching bag. She is wishy washy about the hero. She feels she loves him and hates him in equal parts. I know that is typical for kidnap victims but it was still hard to read about.
What I liked about the hero: very little. I love jealous and possessive alpha males and he took it to the extreme. The hero was beyond possessed and after awhile felt like he could not breathe without her.
Also he was faithful which I always want the hero to be. Other women did not even register on his radar. They ceased to exist when he meet her despite the fact that some were beautiful and naked around them.
What I disliked about the hero: too much. He is not a hero no matter how loose the definition is. He is a sociopath. He feels no shame, guilt or remorse. He kills whomever he feels like especially if he perceives them as a threat to his relationship with the heroine. No one is safe including innocent men, women and children. Anyone who tries to help the heroine he automatic killed no hesitation on his part. He murders anyone that he perceives as a loss end including physical therapist that he hired to help the heroine recover after he beat her to a bloody mess and a tattoo artist he employed to brand her. He actively hunts for her family with the intend to kill them and make her watch including her boyfriend, parents, little brothers, aunts and because she loves them and he feels motivates her to try to escape him. He claims to love the heroine but because he is a psychopath he is incapable of doing so. A person does not beat someone they love to the point they almost kill them and repeatedly. He savagely beats her both deliberately and when he loses control. He is a sadist and conditions her to be a masochist. Like a true sociopath, he dominates others and wins at all costs, which he freely admits. Also he is intelligent and delusional, thinking that he can control every aspect of her life and take away all of her freedom and choice and that she will still be happy to be with him. He believes that after he fully trains her that she will embrace a life where she loves him, marries him, has his spawn and has a HEA with him.
What I liked about the first three books in the series: I could not stop reading. I read all three books without taking a break staying up to 8:00 a.m. and then without any sleep, went to work. There was the right number of sexy times to me throughout the first 3 books. The sex scenes that were not rape scenes were hot and plentiful but did not overshadow the story.
What I disliked about the first three books: the excessive amount of violence against the heroine and others. While it is not the most graphic I have read the fact that it was unrelenting was hard to take.
I will admit to skipping over some bloody scenes because at times, it was too much. The fight scenes between the hero and heroine were too many as well and too technical. I read that the author has a black belt or some color of belt (not to be offense but honestly they all seem the same to me) and that makes sense because the hero and heroine's moves are broken down to the molecular level. After the first book I skipped over some of those scenes as well and since the majority of their fight scenes were violent and resulted in blood shed it worked out well in terms of skimming parts. Also I wanted the heroine to try to escape more and actually be successfully. Sadly that did not happen. The times she tried to escape with the exception of 1 time were not well thought out but more spur of the moment escape attempts that were unsuccessful.
I will read the last book in the series when it comes out. This is one of the few times that I want the heroine to end up with someone else (the boyfriend would be a good choice agreed the readers get to know him) other than the hero AND I want the hero to die. The hero is not redeemable in my opinion. If he stays true to character then he will always be a psychopath and not capable of giving himself or anyone else a HEA. The heroine could never be happy being with him no matter how brain washed she is. He is a monster who will never feel things like remorse or love. Any spawn he has if raised by him will grow up to be monsters too. For the good of society he needs to be put down and if this were reality and not romanceland he would eventually either be killed or locked up the rest of his life and that would be a true HEA to this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2018
I don't quite know to convey my feelings without sounding wishy washy and a complete nut case! But here goes.....NO spoilers I promise!
The drama between J and D continue to evolve and I dunno if I'm okay with the direction. I know I'm going to hell with gasoline undies on when I say this....BUT! I like when D acts like a psycho with J. He's vicious and crazy (gahhhh I love vicious and crazy!!!). But he knows her LIMIT. I mean she is the strongest acquisition I've read about EVER. I don't want her to capitulate and lose herself. I really want her to stay strong so he can act up (yep I can see hell already for saying it!!!). She drives D to drink, literally, and I love the only thing he can control is her body. Her mind, her soul, her feelings belongs to her. And it drives him BANANAS! That's what I LOVE about J.
However, something is brewing in this story. I dunno. I'm so filled with anxiety I feel that I need group therapy or some sort of counseling! Drama escalates and then explodes, I shriek pick myself up off the floor, check to see if I damaged MacKenzie (my e-reader), and then settle in for the next level of intensity. Readrs! You gotta have nerves of steel for the intensity in this installment. It's clear something is going on with J. Maybe her super powers has a shortage or something. I dunno but she better straighten up and fly right! I keep forgetting this child is only 25 and has gone through more in a year than most people endure in a lifetime.
I can tell you this installment ends well but on a cliffhanger. The next story release..... December 2017. Yep you read correctly! THREE months away. 90 DAYS. 2160 HOURS. Read very slowly, my friends! Read a chapter, wait a few days, read another chapter, etc....you're not gonna be able to do it, but give it the ole college try! Why?The book hangover is a beyotch!!!!!
Five AMAZING stars!
The drama between J and D continue to evolve and I dunno if I'm okay with the direction. I know I'm going to hell with gasoline undies on when I say this....BUT! I like when D acts like a psycho with J. He's vicious and crazy (gahhhh I love vicious and crazy!!!). But he knows her LIMIT. I mean she is the strongest acquisition I've read about EVER. I don't want her to capitulate and lose herself. I really want her to stay strong so he can act up (yep I can see hell already for saying it!!!). She drives D to drink, literally, and I love the only thing he can control is her body. Her mind, her soul, her feelings belongs to her. And it drives him BANANAS! That's what I LOVE about J.
However, something is brewing in this story. I dunno. I'm so filled with anxiety I feel that I need group therapy or some sort of counseling! Drama escalates and then explodes, I shriek pick myself up off the floor, check to see if I damaged MacKenzie (my e-reader), and then settle in for the next level of intensity. Readrs! You gotta have nerves of steel for the intensity in this installment. It's clear something is going on with J. Maybe her super powers has a shortage or something. I dunno but she better straighten up and fly right! I keep forgetting this child is only 25 and has gone through more in a year than most people endure in a lifetime.
I can tell you this installment ends well but on a cliffhanger. The next story release..... December 2017. Yep you read correctly! THREE months away. 90 DAYS. 2160 HOURS. Read very slowly, my friends! Read a chapter, wait a few days, read another chapter, etc....you're not gonna be able to do it, but give it the ole college try! Why?The book hangover is a beyotch!!!!!
Five AMAZING stars!
March 10, 2022
I despise continuity errors especially big ones like this that are a big part of the plot. Below is an excerpt from book one in this series. In the scene he clearly kills the slave that was in the cage next to her, the owner is the main male character she doesn’t learn his name until the second book. He keeps her. The second excerpt is from book 3 in which she says she has never witnessed him killing anyone. Really Jay Marie?? I was really enjoying this series until this happens and it takes me right out of the story and I’m very irritated that you missed this continuity error.
“And then the owner’s eyes found mine as I watched, crouched from my cage, fear rising up my spine as he smirked at me from behind a devious and evil glare.
Oh no….
It was as though slow motion had consumed the air around us as time nearly stopped. I shook my head, pleading with all my heart as his face went from smirk to intense rage.
“No…” I whispered. “No!”
And just like that, he snapped her neck. Even among the screaming, I could have sworn I still heard the crunching sound of her bones breaking as it crashed into my ears, her lifeless body falling to the floor”
Excerpt From
Stolen
Jay Marie
“For the first time ever, I’d actually witnessed Darren murder someone. I knew he had killed others, heard about it and listened to it, but I’d never actually seen him do it, and it was fucking horrifying. ”
Excerpt From
Spark (Stronger Series Book 3)
Jay Marie
“And then the owner’s eyes found mine as I watched, crouched from my cage, fear rising up my spine as he smirked at me from behind a devious and evil glare.
Oh no….
It was as though slow motion had consumed the air around us as time nearly stopped. I shook my head, pleading with all my heart as his face went from smirk to intense rage.
“No…” I whispered. “No!”
And just like that, he snapped her neck. Even among the screaming, I could have sworn I still heard the crunching sound of her bones breaking as it crashed into my ears, her lifeless body falling to the floor”
Excerpt From
Stolen
Jay Marie
“For the first time ever, I’d actually witnessed Darren murder someone. I knew he had killed others, heard about it and listened to it, but I’d never actually seen him do it, and it was fucking horrifying. ”
Excerpt From
Spark (Stronger Series Book 3)
Jay Marie
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2018
I’m getting bored
First let me say the author’s writing is excellent. However, I’m getting bored with this series. Jaden is fierce and amazing and Darren is a beast. However, when is this going to wrap up. Either Jaden accepts her life with Darren or she doesn’t. Make a decision and let’s have it. At this point I’m beginning to feel as though the author is stringing is along for profit. Please wrap this up.
First let me say the author’s writing is excellent. However, I’m getting bored with this series. Jaden is fierce and amazing and Darren is a beast. However, when is this going to wrap up. Either Jaden accepts her life with Darren or she doesn’t. Make a decision and let’s have it. At this point I’m beginning to feel as though the author is stringing is along for profit. Please wrap this up.
July 7, 2020
I actually can't stand it!!! How the hell is this apparwnt hero even redeemable, he's an utter dick throughout the whole 3 books so far and its all just gone too far now! Its all the same shit she fights back and he beats her, she fights back again and he beats her again?
This isn't even a story, its repetition
This isn't even a story, its repetition
May 4, 2018
After 3 books I still hate Darren and still hoping that Jayden kills the sick SOB. After this last attempt to break her the only hea I want is for her to come stronger and madder and whoop his ass and to destroy him.
January 3, 2017
This series just keeps getting Stronger!
Just when you think you've seen the worst,Spark becomes even darker....Darren thinks he's making Jaden accept her role in his life....But she's not giving up that easy though,and there's hell to pay for her defiance....Damn,J....do i really have to wait until december for Strike? You're killing me!
Just when you think you've seen the worst,Spark becomes even darker....Darren thinks he's making Jaden accept her role in his life....But she's not giving up that easy though,and there's hell to pay for her defiance....Damn,J....do i really have to wait until december for Strike? You're killing me!
May 2, 2018
Jay Marie delivers a third installment in her Stronger series that will leave you breathless! It's not often that I read a series that keeps me engrossed and invested by the end of book three but it is definitely the case with this one. Spark picks up right where survival left off. My heart broke for Jaden in the first part of the book and then, just when I started to feel ok, it broke some more. I am not quite sure what to write about Darren. Just when you think that he may be softening and becoming somewhat human, he goes into super diabolical villain mode. But I guess that's what I love about his character. In this installment we also get to meet some of Darren's family and friends as well as a glimpse into the life of one particular character from book one.
Overall, Spark completely lived up to the expectations set forth by the first two books in the series. It is thrilling, dark, erotic, disturbing and definitely a must read!
Overall, Spark completely lived up to the expectations set forth by the first two books in the series. It is thrilling, dark, erotic, disturbing and definitely a must read!
May 25, 2020
Copy/paste review for Book 1
Holy. Shit.
This is really dark.
It's also addictive as hell.
And NOT a romance.
But... it made me... feel things...
I'll be writing a lengthy review once I finish the whole series.
I need the last book ASAP...
★★★★★ stars
Holy. Shit.
This is really dark.
It's also addictive as hell.
And NOT a romance.
But... it made me... feel things...
I'll be writing a lengthy review once I finish the whole series.
I need the last book ASAP...
★★★★★ stars
Read
April 24, 2017I know why I took her off my favourite shelf.
February 5, 2024
a lovely drag
I don’t know how to write this review without coming off like I hate this book. The opposite in fact. However, in book three I wanted to see something different. I was tired of Jaden being “abused” and it being disguised as consequences. I’m a little annoyed that Darren’s character is so strong, he can’t be defeated. But moreover, I love seeing Jaden rise like a phoenix. Hopefully, less redundancy in the next book.
I don’t know how to write this review without coming off like I hate this book. The opposite in fact. However, in book three I wanted to see something different. I was tired of Jaden being “abused” and it being disguised as consequences. I’m a little annoyed that Darren’s character is so strong, he can’t be defeated. But moreover, I love seeing Jaden rise like a phoenix. Hopefully, less redundancy in the next book.
May 1, 2018
It is quite possible that Darren, with his blind obsession to own Jaden -not just physically but heart and soul -may have just broken the one thing he so admires about her - her spirit
As the journey continues with Jaden's very slow recovery it becomes evident to Darren that he may have gone too far in his "discipline" - In his quest to "fix" Jaden - but only to the degree that he gets his little spitfire back - we see another side of him - he truly believes that he provides Jaden with a good life and that he provides for her everything she could possibly need and she should be happy and thankful -
He is so wrong and sadly Jaden again will suffer the brunt of his psychosis
I am really conflicted at this point - I understand what is happening to Jaden and how it is being accomplished but I do not want it to end this way
But... there is truly a spark of hope hidden in the darkness
As the journey continues with Jaden's very slow recovery it becomes evident to Darren that he may have gone too far in his "discipline" - In his quest to "fix" Jaden - but only to the degree that he gets his little spitfire back - we see another side of him - he truly believes that he provides Jaden with a good life and that he provides for her everything she could possibly need and she should be happy and thankful -
He is so wrong and sadly Jaden again will suffer the brunt of his psychosis
I am really conflicted at this point - I understand what is happening to Jaden and how it is being accomplished but I do not want it to end this way
But... there is truly a spark of hope hidden in the darkness
April 17, 2018
This book star were we left Survival, with Jaden recovering.
In this book we can see J transform so much, Darren is the monster that he is and is never going to change. He has one gold and is not stopping for anything or anyone to get it.
In this book he treats her both with care are al always so much violence and he amps her conditioning so much that she sometimes feels like a different person.
For the most part she never lose her spirit but, at one time he really breaks her and is really heartbreaking to see. All part of his big plan to build her to be the women he wants
But it think or hope that she becomes his undoing.
I really hate Darren !!!
I can’t wait to know were this crazy couple is going to go.
In this book we can see J transform so much, Darren is the monster that he is and is never going to change. He has one gold and is not stopping for anything or anyone to get it.
In this book he treats her both with care are al always so much violence and he amps her conditioning so much that she sometimes feels like a different person.
For the most part she never lose her spirit but, at one time he really breaks her and is really heartbreaking to see. All part of his big plan to build her to be the women he wants
But it think or hope that she becomes his undoing.
I really hate Darren !!!
I can’t wait to know were this crazy couple is going to go.
April 11, 2022
What a colossal waste of time
What a colossal waste of time and money! I don’t care for dishonest authors,and this book was dishonest, there was no plot, no charter development… it was rinse and repeat.. this was a money grab that’s it.. that’s all! We start out with Jaden the female lead, badly beaten,and u would hope the correct emotions would be emotionally withdrawn! However that’s not the case she never really ever has the appropriate emotions.. which makes this book unbelievable, in fact laughable at best! She’s all over the place but none of it is believe able.. now let’s talk about Darren and the fact that there is absolutely nothing redeemable about this man!
What a colossal waste of time and money! I don’t care for dishonest authors,and this book was dishonest, there was no plot, no charter development… it was rinse and repeat.. this was a money grab that’s it.. that’s all! We start out with Jaden the female lead, badly beaten,and u would hope the correct emotions would be emotionally withdrawn! However that’s not the case she never really ever has the appropriate emotions.. which makes this book unbelievable, in fact laughable at best! She’s all over the place but none of it is believe able.. now let’s talk about Darren and the fact that there is absolutely nothing redeemable about this man!
November 8, 2017
Jay Marie & Darren have ruined me! There will never be another series that has the ability to grab my attention, hold it, shake the shit out of it while squeezing it then throws it across the room into a wall...... Yes, I’m still talking about my attention! Damn you, Jay Marie!! I need MORE Darren!
April 26, 2019
Desperate for book 4, can't wait to see what happens!
This series is the scariest rollercoaster ride I've ever been on. The ups, downs, and surprising turns have kept me on my toes the whole time. I admire the strength in Jaden, and was so glad to see she kept that strength. Anxiously waiting for book 4!
This series is the scariest rollercoaster ride I've ever been on. The ups, downs, and surprising turns have kept me on my toes the whole time. I admire the strength in Jaden, and was so glad to see she kept that strength. Anxiously waiting for book 4!
November 10, 2020
Not a believable ending
For a heroine that’s supposed to be smart this one makes a lot of stupid decisions and doesn’t use her head
For a heroine that’s supposed to be smart this one makes a lot of stupid decisions and doesn’t use her head
August 12, 2019
4,5*
Po skończeniu tej części najpierw musiałam zebrać myśli, żeby coś napisać. Jak zaczęłam czytać ten tom, myślałam, że dam 4 gwiazdki, ale druga połowa, a właściwie to końcówka tak mnie rozłożyła na łopatki, że zmieniłam zdanie.
Wydawałoby się, że po tym jak Darren świadomie i celowo uszkodził Jaden, nie może być już gorzej. Należałoby się wstrzymać z tym osądem do końca tej części. Jeśli na początku tego tomu byłam wściekła na Darrena, to po dojściu do końca z całego serca go nienawidzę.
Darren dopiero teraz uświadamia sobie to, co zrobił, że unieruchomił Jaden na cały miesiąc, a tym samym ukarał siebie, bo stała się dla niego niedostępna. Nie przewidział też tego, że to dla niej za dużo i popadnie w depresję. I choć z pomocą przychodzi doktor Sid, zapewniając Jaden towarzystwo na wyspie, Darren ponownie wszystko knoci, "bo tak trzeba". A myślałam, że po tym wszystkim jego serce zmięknie. Ach, jakże się myliłam. Niestety, w tej części całym sercem go nienawidzę. Posiadł ciało Jaden, wyszkolił je, by reagowało na niego i go pragnęło, a teraz sięga po jej serce i duszę. Jaden miota się w tym wszystkim, bo z całego serca go nienawidzi i pragnie zemsty, ale wie, że to jej nie doprowadzi do niczego dobrego. Próbuje nawet udawać totalną uległość i obojętność, ale przy jej ogniu, choć mocno przygaszonym i częściowo ukrywanym, Darren nadal wie, jak nacisnąć na detonator, który nie wybucha tak jak dawniej. Trudno, aby wybuchał, gdy prowadzi się życie całkowicie zaplanowane przez kogoś innego, pełne obostrzeń, zasad i pozbawione prywatności, bo zawsze i wszędzie towarzyszy jej dwóch ochroniarzy.
Traktowana jak pięcioletnie dziecko, które nic nie może zrobić bez pozwolenia i jest karane za każde przewinienie, zamknięta w wieży, kontrolowana pod każdym względem, karana i jednocześnie rozpieszczana. Okazuje się, że takie życie to bajka w porównaniu z tym, przez co przechodzą jej koleżanki niedoli, np Kayla sprowadzona do roli zabawki albo szczeniaczka. W końcu chociaż Darren postępuje z nią jak ze zbuntowaną pięciolatką, to jednak nadal traktuje ją jak człowieka. Jaden jest sprytna, próbuje różnych sztuczek i intryg, ale ma za długi język i nie docenia możliwości Darrena, powinna się już nauczyć po pierwszej swojej sesji z Sidem. Cały czas się wydaje, że w ich relacji jest coraz większy progres, lecz niestety każdy kolejny krok w przód kończy się wylądowaniem w punkcie wyjścia. Serce się kraja, gdy się czyta o "przeprogramowanych" dziewczynach, których jedynym celem w życiu jest zadowolenie i uszczęśliwienie swojego pana, które robią wszystko nieobecne duchem, bez emocji, tylko dlatego, że pan tego chce. Darren po sześciu tygodniach "łamania" Jaden w końcu osiąga swój cel, upewniając się dokładnie, że tym razem Jaden nie udaje. Ale czy naprawdę to jest to, czego chciał? Ubzdurał sobie, że może złamać Jaden, a potem na nowo rozpalić w niej ogień. Ale czy aby na pewno ten ogień da się rozpalić? Co się stanie, gdy ten ogień na nowo zapłonie? Niestety nieprędko poznam odpowiedzi, bo okazuje się, że autorka jeszcze nie wydała dwóch kolejnych części, lecz na szczęście obiecuje, że już niebawem książka trafi do redaktorki. Jedno mogę powiedzieć: jest to seria, która odcisnęła mocne piętno w mojej psychice, na tyle, że po przeczytaniu ostatnich pięciu rozdziałów nie mogę znaleźć sobie miejsca. Nawet trudno znaleźć pocieszenie w tym, że to tylko fikcja literacka, bo zdaję sobie sprawę, że takie rzeczy mają miejsce w naszym świecie i to jest najbardziej dołujące.
Po skończeniu tej części najpierw musiałam zebrać myśli, żeby coś napisać. Jak zaczęłam czytać ten tom, myślałam, że dam 4 gwiazdki, ale druga połowa, a właściwie to końcówka tak mnie rozłożyła na łopatki, że zmieniłam zdanie.
Wydawałoby się, że po tym jak Darren świadomie i celowo uszkodził Jaden, nie może być już gorzej. Należałoby się wstrzymać z tym osądem do końca tej części. Jeśli na początku tego tomu byłam wściekła na Darrena, to po dojściu do końca z całego serca go nienawidzę.
Darren dopiero teraz uświadamia sobie to, co zrobił, że unieruchomił Jaden na cały miesiąc, a tym samym ukarał siebie, bo stała się dla niego niedostępna. Nie przewidział też tego, że to dla niej za dużo i popadnie w depresję. I choć z pomocą przychodzi doktor Sid, zapewniając Jaden towarzystwo na wyspie, Darren ponownie wszystko knoci, "bo tak trzeba". A myślałam, że po tym wszystkim jego serce zmięknie. Ach, jakże się myliłam. Niestety, w tej części całym sercem go nienawidzę. Posiadł ciało Jaden, wyszkolił je, by reagowało na niego i go pragnęło, a teraz sięga po jej serce i duszę. Jaden miota się w tym wszystkim, bo z całego serca go nienawidzi i pragnie zemsty, ale wie, że to jej nie doprowadzi do niczego dobrego. Próbuje nawet udawać totalną uległość i obojętność, ale przy jej ogniu, choć mocno przygaszonym i częściowo ukrywanym, Darren nadal wie, jak nacisnąć na detonator, który nie wybucha tak jak dawniej. Trudno, aby wybuchał, gdy prowadzi się życie całkowicie zaplanowane przez kogoś innego, pełne obostrzeń, zasad i pozbawione prywatności, bo zawsze i wszędzie towarzyszy jej dwóch ochroniarzy.
Traktowana jak pięcioletnie dziecko, które nic nie może zrobić bez pozwolenia i jest karane za każde przewinienie, zamknięta w wieży, kontrolowana pod każdym względem, karana i jednocześnie rozpieszczana. Okazuje się, że takie życie to bajka w porównaniu z tym, przez co przechodzą jej koleżanki niedoli, np Kayla sprowadzona do roli zabawki albo szczeniaczka. W końcu chociaż Darren postępuje z nią jak ze zbuntowaną pięciolatką, to jednak nadal traktuje ją jak człowieka. Jaden jest sprytna, próbuje różnych sztuczek i intryg, ale ma za długi język i nie docenia możliwości Darrena, powinna się już nauczyć po pierwszej swojej sesji z Sidem. Cały czas się wydaje, że w ich relacji jest coraz większy progres, lecz niestety każdy kolejny krok w przód kończy się wylądowaniem w punkcie wyjścia. Serce się kraja, gdy się czyta o "przeprogramowanych" dziewczynach, których jedynym celem w życiu jest zadowolenie i uszczęśliwienie swojego pana, które robią wszystko nieobecne duchem, bez emocji, tylko dlatego, że pan tego chce. Darren po sześciu tygodniach "łamania" Jaden w końcu osiąga swój cel, upewniając się dokładnie, że tym razem Jaden nie udaje. Ale czy naprawdę to jest to, czego chciał? Ubzdurał sobie, że może złamać Jaden, a potem na nowo rozpalić w niej ogień. Ale czy aby na pewno ten ogień da się rozpalić? Co się stanie, gdy ten ogień na nowo zapłonie? Niestety nieprędko poznam odpowiedzi, bo okazuje się, że autorka jeszcze nie wydała dwóch kolejnych części, lecz na szczęście obiecuje, że już niebawem książka trafi do redaktorki. Jedno mogę powiedzieć: jest to seria, która odcisnęła mocne piętno w mojej psychice, na tyle, że po przeczytaniu ostatnich pięciu rozdziałów nie mogę znaleźć sobie miejsca. Nawet trudno znaleźć pocieszenie w tym, że to tylko fikcja literacka, bo zdaję sobie sprawę, że takie rzeczy mają miejsce w naszym świecie i to jest najbardziej dołujące.
February 13, 2023
I finished Spark, book 3 in the Stronger series! For additional background please see my reviews of Stolen & Survival.
This book continues to follow Jaden in her journey of being Darren’s slave. This book picks up after the 2nd one left off with Jaden healing from her injuries. Watching Jaden during her healing process was awful for me because she lost her spark during that. This book was tough for me because of the mental breaking that Darren put Jaden through. But Jaden is SO strong to keep going. I will say that I feel like this book was very long and there were a few scenes that I didn’t think were necessary to the storyline, and this could have been shorter. The ending of this broke my heart though. I didn’t think Darren would ever fully break Jaden… But crazier shit has happened I suppose. This book is heart breaking and emotional. But all around was a good read.
Plot: 4⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
Overall: 4⭐️
This book continues to follow Jaden in her journey of being Darren’s slave. This book picks up after the 2nd one left off with Jaden healing from her injuries. Watching Jaden during her healing process was awful for me because she lost her spark during that. This book was tough for me because of the mental breaking that Darren put Jaden through. But Jaden is SO strong to keep going. I will say that I feel like this book was very long and there were a few scenes that I didn’t think were necessary to the storyline, and this could have been shorter. The ending of this broke my heart though. I didn’t think Darren would ever fully break Jaden… But crazier shit has happened I suppose. This book is heart breaking and emotional. But all around was a good read.
Plot: 4⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
Overall: 4⭐️
June 5, 2024
Ahhh this has been going on for roo long now..
I was unfortunately kinda bored in this one. So I’m putting a pause to the series until the last book is released.
I was unfortunately kinda bored in this one. So I’m putting a pause to the series until the last book is released.
July 27, 2023
I am writing a combined review for the books 1,2,3 in this stronger series. After all I was up all night reading book after book hoping for something better to happen. This series has me riveted alright!
And mind you, do not expect any romance in this series. It was nothing but pure psychological manipulation of h by the H. The H is a psychopath who shows no remorse. He wavers between hot and cold. If he is gentle in 1 chapter , rest assured he is going to bash and thrash the heroine in the next. Even after three books he does not have any love towards the h, he is onto his methodological manipulation. He gets worse and worse after every chapter. My final straw was when he crushed her jaw and wrists with his bear hands and breaks her mentally. He breaks her time and time again and the heroine miraculously springs up
Now the h is superwoman, who is a law student, psychology student and master in martial arts , biker and who has immense positivity which borders to the level of stupidity. But we cannot blame her, she does all in her capacity to survive. She breaks and fades away many times but is manipulated to have a life by the H. My heart was breaking for her.
This was no romance , it was dark through and through. Even the gentleness from the H creeped me out. Not once did the h get an upper hand, she had to submit every single time surrendering her body and mind to the H.
I really really hope something changes in the next book. But we can't expect that in realtime trafficking. Can we?
And mind you, do not expect any romance in this series. It was nothing but pure psychological manipulation of h by the H. The H is a psychopath who shows no remorse. He wavers between hot and cold. If he is gentle in 1 chapter , rest assured he is going to bash and thrash the heroine in the next. Even after three books he does not have any love towards the h, he is onto his methodological manipulation. He gets worse and worse after every chapter. My final straw was when he crushed her jaw and wrists with his bear hands and breaks her mentally. He breaks her time and time again and the heroine miraculously springs up
Now the h is superwoman, who is a law student, psychology student and master in martial arts , biker and who has immense positivity which borders to the level of stupidity. But we cannot blame her, she does all in her capacity to survive. She breaks and fades away many times but is manipulated to have a life by the H. My heart was breaking for her.
This was no romance , it was dark through and through. Even the gentleness from the H creeped me out. Not once did the h get an upper hand, she had to submit every single time surrendering her body and mind to the H.
I really really hope something changes in the next book. But we can't expect that in realtime trafficking. Can we?
April 14, 2018
Yet another heart stopping, leave you breathless, dark and twisted journey. Jay Marie pulls out all the stops. I read dark books pretty regularly, some have been on the issue of human trafficking. I have never seen an author so skilled at delivering on this topic than Jay Marie. If you read dark, you need this series.
This book had me going all over the place. The author excelled at twists, turns and breaking my heart. That strong sense of urgency to read every single word as quick as possible, needing to know what happens next was in full force. Once again I was in awe of how Jay Marie can bring a world to life. I felt like I was right there--even at the times I didn't want to be.
Don't go into this expecting a typical dark read. Instead expect to have boundaries tested, thoughts questioned and most of all a strong reminder of just how precious life means. I cannot wait for book 4 to come out. This is the type of series where you love it, hate it, or hate to admit that you love it. It kept me wanting more. Highly recommend for those who can handle dark reads.
This book had me going all over the place. The author excelled at twists, turns and breaking my heart. That strong sense of urgency to read every single word as quick as possible, needing to know what happens next was in full force. Once again I was in awe of how Jay Marie can bring a world to life. I felt like I was right there--even at the times I didn't want to be.
Don't go into this expecting a typical dark read. Instead expect to have boundaries tested, thoughts questioned and most of all a strong reminder of just how precious life means. I cannot wait for book 4 to come out. This is the type of series where you love it, hate it, or hate to admit that you love it. It kept me wanting more. Highly recommend for those who can handle dark reads.
October 8, 2018
Holy SPARK
Once again Jay Marie has hit it out,of the park! This series is so addicting.
Spark picks up right where Survival left off and pulls you in immediately. Jaden's punishment for her escape in Survival is brutal and terrifying. She knew it was coming, but that didn't make it any easier.
Much of the book is set during her recovery, as she tries to build Darren's trust. The mind games Darren plays are still strong and are becoming more and more difficult to decipher.
We get to see a different side of Darren, almost making you like him. He's so hot and cold. One second he's being sweet and loving; thr next second he's all out sadistic and terrifying again.
Jaden is forced to go through some insanely hard changes that may just be the end of old Jaden.
This book is, yet again, extremely dark and has many instances of abuse (physical, mental and sexual). This book/series is not for the faint of heart. But I can't recommend it enough.
I'm addicted to Jaden and Darren's story. Strike (book 4 of 5) can't come out fast enough.
Once again Jay Marie has hit it out,of the park! This series is so addicting.
Spark picks up right where Survival left off and pulls you in immediately. Jaden's punishment for her escape in Survival is brutal and terrifying. She knew it was coming, but that didn't make it any easier.
Much of the book is set during her recovery, as she tries to build Darren's trust. The mind games Darren plays are still strong and are becoming more and more difficult to decipher.
We get to see a different side of Darren, almost making you like him. He's so hot and cold. One second he's being sweet and loving; thr next second he's all out sadistic and terrifying again.
Jaden is forced to go through some insanely hard changes that may just be the end of old Jaden.
This book is, yet again, extremely dark and has many instances of abuse (physical, mental and sexual). This book/series is not for the faint of heart. But I can't recommend it enough.
I'm addicted to Jaden and Darren's story. Strike (book 4 of 5) can't come out fast enough.
May 5, 2018
LOVE this book and love the series. Talk about whiplash though. Darren can swing from tender and caring to absolute nightmare in 3 seconds or less. Poor Jaden is still struggling with how to cope with her new reality. Should she be strong and not give in, or should she finally admit she has more than met her match in the terror and pain that Darren can deliver? I actually am hoping for a HEA for them, but I honestly about gave up on that idea for a short while after reading what he did to her to finally "break" her. OMG. Heartbreaking. But is she really, truly broken? Or will her strong will finally resurrect her from the sad and pathetic slave she has at last become? I can't wait for the next book. I want it like yesterday. It is absolutely killing me to have to wait. Can't even guess what direction this is gonna go. Oh, and I am back to hoping for a HEA, btw. Darren has shown he is capable of caring and kindness, and I do believe there is still hope for him.
May 20, 2018
I am not really sure what made me decide to start this series. Honestly I almost always have a negative reaction to storylines involving human trafficking . But I will tell you this that this author has written an engrossing heart pounding series that I couldn't put down. I also enjoy the fact that part of the proceeds are donated to benefit victims of this atrocious crime. I want to state up front I consider Darren a monster plain and simple with no conscious as far as I can tell. There is no romance between the two main characters. This author doesn't hold back on the psychological or physical damage that Darren is traumatizing Jaden with. The joy in reading though is that sometimes maybe the monster doesn't win and the reader (I might be in the minority not really sure) gets what they consider a happy ending in as much as possible with this kind of storyline. It is a great series if you can handle the very real darkness contained in these pages.# Freedom for Jaden
May 4, 2018
The epic battle between Darren and Jaden continues in this, the third book in the Stronger series.
Jay Marie does not disappoint with this continuing saga. One minute I love Darren then the next I loathe him, well I mostly loathe him. Jaden is as strong as ever he can't beat her but he still tries his hardest, she has learnt to play him at his own game but he is on to her, and for that she will pay again and again.
He shows her the finer things that she could have but he also shows her the worst treatment he can manage. He shows her that she can get pleasure from the worst pain he can give her and she hates that he has this effect on her.
This book is very dark and deals with issues that might upset. I can't wait to read the next chapter in the lives of Darren and Jaden. Roll on the summer
Jay Marie does not disappoint with this continuing saga. One minute I love Darren then the next I loathe him, well I mostly loathe him. Jaden is as strong as ever he can't beat her but he still tries his hardest, she has learnt to play him at his own game but he is on to her, and for that she will pay again and again.
He shows her the finer things that she could have but he also shows her the worst treatment he can manage. He shows her that she can get pleasure from the worst pain he can give her and she hates that he has this effect on her.
This book is very dark and deals with issues that might upset. I can't wait to read the next chapter in the lives of Darren and Jaden. Roll on the summer
April 21, 2019
This series is amazing. The plot is well-planned, the writing is excellent, and the characters are sooo dynamic. Jaden is definitely one of the most incredible heroines I have ever read. She is so damn smart, witty, feisty, sweet (at some point lol), and full of life. I am no wonder why Darren is so obsessed about her. Darren is also one of my favorite heroes as well. Despite his brutal behavior, he is truly cared about Jaden. His character development can be seen throughout the series.
I have re-read the whole series at least one time a month. Currently, I give this series as my first top
list. I would recommend this series for those who love “dark” erotic and thrilling stories. Look forward for the next book :))
I have re-read the whole series at least one time a month. Currently, I give this series as my first top
list. I would recommend this series for those who love “dark” erotic and thrilling stories. Look forward for the next book :))
October 22, 2019
Spark is the third in the five-part Stronger series, and it does NOT disappoint.
Starting off with Jaden's recovery after Darren's debilitating attack, you have a front row seat to her survival mode shift. From refusing to bend to deciding that she has to give a little to get a lot more, Spark is a mental roller coaster. You get a taste of what the "good" life with Darren might look like, and what terror and destruction await those who choose to step out of line.
Jay Marie's ability to bring you into the thoughts and feelings of her characters in the most satisfying way is what makes her books so thrilling and so different than most garden variety novels.
I'm chomping at the bit for the next two books because I know I won't be disappointed.
Starting off with Jaden's recovery after Darren's debilitating attack, you have a front row seat to her survival mode shift. From refusing to bend to deciding that she has to give a little to get a lot more, Spark is a mental roller coaster. You get a taste of what the "good" life with Darren might look like, and what terror and destruction await those who choose to step out of line.
Jay Marie's ability to bring you into the thoughts and feelings of her characters in the most satisfying way is what makes her books so thrilling and so different than most garden variety novels.
I'm chomping at the bit for the next two books because I know I won't be disappointed.
January 2, 2020
Wow this is such a horrible series, but I can't put it down. It made me feel anxiety, and sadness and anger. Just when you think it can't get worse it does.
I think the author has broken me down enough that I don't think there is any escape either. If she wants to survive, she will have to be his robot. As I mentioned after the last book, I know I would have tried to kill myself a long time ago. The worst part is that he isn't the worst. We get an insight into how much worse it could be. It breaks my heart to think of the poor people out there in this situation. This is the most true book I have read about sex slaves. Usually they turn into romances with the man changing, but this is a true thriller about a psychopath and a group of people you would not want to go anywhere near.
I think the author has broken me down enough that I don't think there is any escape either. If she wants to survive, she will have to be his robot. As I mentioned after the last book, I know I would have tried to kill myself a long time ago. The worst part is that he isn't the worst. We get an insight into how much worse it could be. It breaks my heart to think of the poor people out there in this situation. This is the most true book I have read about sex slaves. Usually they turn into romances with the man changing, but this is a true thriller about a psychopath and a group of people you would not want to go anywhere near.
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