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Love on the Edge #1.5
Edge of Recovery
I thought second chances only happened to good, decent people.
Not the broken and damaged monsters like me.
But it did.
And I can’t control it.
But I need to.
Charlie is my sponsor, the one person I’m not supposed to touch, but my heart has locked on to her and is finally beating after years of barely moving.
I’m in over my head in more ways than one, and as I try to be the man she sees behind the monster, I only sink deeper, two sides of myself battling for clarity. The one that dares to hope, and the one that already knows I’ll lose everything.
I’m terrified my jagged past will slice her to ribbons but as my sponsor she’s obligated to dig up all the broken pieces and try to put them back together.
I don’t know what scares me more, who she’ll find when she’s done, or how far she’ll run once she realizes the truth.
Not the broken and damaged monsters like me.
But it did.
And I can’t control it.
But I need to.
Charlie is my sponsor, the one person I’m not supposed to touch, but my heart has locked on to her and is finally beating after years of barely moving.
I’m in over my head in more ways than one, and as I try to be the man she sees behind the monster, I only sink deeper, two sides of myself battling for clarity. The one that dares to hope, and the one that already knows I’ll lose everything.
I’m terrified my jagged past will slice her to ribbons but as my sponsor she’s obligated to dig up all the broken pieces and try to put them back together.
I don’t know what scares me more, who she’ll find when she’s done, or how far she’ll run once she realizes the truth.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2016
19 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Molly E. Lee
18 books995 followersMolly E. Lee is an author best known for her romance novels, the Grad Night series and the Love on the Edge series. Molly writes Adult and Young Adult contemporary featuring strong female heroines who are unafraid to challenge their male counterparts, yet still vulnerable enough to have love sneak up on them. In addition to being a military spouse and mother of two + one stubborn English Bulldog, Molly loves watching storms from her back porch at her Midwest home, and digging for treasures in antique stores.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 7, 2017
I was really out of my comfort zone with this one. It was a hard read for me.
This is Justin's story and should be read after Edge of Chaos. Justin was Blake's abusive first boyfriend before Dash. We know he's violent, manipulative, controlling oh and an alcoholic. So yeah, I started this book hating him. It's kind of hard to come back from that.
Justin tells his story in first person and it's a new story, this isn't a retelling of Edge of Chaos.. He hates himself and he's haunted by the way he treated Blake so it's hard not to feel some compassion for him as he struggles to get better, but it does make for a relentlessly depressing read, which was a bit of a problem for me tbh. I wish it wasn't so, but I struggle to enjoy lots of darkness and angst in my reading.
There's a hint of forbidden romance as he falls for his sponsor, the one woman he can't have and who may derail his recovery which offset some of the angst and his friendship with Connor, another recovering addict, is also touching.
Justin has also got on the wrong side of his former cell mate who is blackmailing him which led to a pretty shocking conclusion so there was plenty going on and a high level of angst.
Definitely one for angst whores, you'll love this. Complete story but should be read after Edge of Chaos.
**Thanks to the author for the arc**
This is Justin's story and should be read after Edge of Chaos. Justin was Blake's abusive first boyfriend before Dash. We know he's violent, manipulative, controlling oh and an alcoholic. So yeah, I started this book hating him. It's kind of hard to come back from that.
Justin tells his story in first person and it's a new story, this isn't a retelling of Edge of Chaos.. He hates himself and he's haunted by the way he treated Blake so it's hard not to feel some compassion for him as he struggles to get better, but it does make for a relentlessly depressing read, which was a bit of a problem for me tbh. I wish it wasn't so, but I struggle to enjoy lots of darkness and angst in my reading.
There's a hint of forbidden romance as he falls for his sponsor, the one woman he can't have and who may derail his recovery which offset some of the angst and his friendship with Connor, another recovering addict, is also touching.
Justin has also got on the wrong side of his former cell mate who is blackmailing him which led to a pretty shocking conclusion so there was plenty going on and a high level of angst.
Definitely one for angst whores, you'll love this. Complete story but should be read after Edge of Chaos.
**Thanks to the author for the arc**
February 7, 2017
4.5 stars
I was apprehensive to read Edge of Recovery, as anyone who has read Edge of Chaos could imagine. Justin was easy to hate, an all around horrible character. I didn't feel as if he had any redeeming qualities, so why would I want to read a novella with him as the main character?
Edge of Chaos gave us Justin from Blake's perspective, but we never were able to fully hear his voice like could here. Learning what made Justin tick in this novella opened my heart to him.
Justin's problems come to a head in this story, and he is faced with choosing a prison sentence or swallowing his pride and going to rehab for his alcoholism. I found myself rooting for Justin to come through his hardships and become a good man. I loved how real Molly made the characters seem. Every detail was well-planned and felt like I was getting more story that I had expected to receive in a novella. There was depth, feeling, and a wonderful tie-in with two previous novels. This is was a nice, albeit sad at times, surprise. I love the the subtle connections between each book in the series. In 141 pages, I changed my mind about a character I hated, felt a full range of emotions, was given a conclusion I didn't know I wanted or needed, and was shocked by a twist I didn't see coming.
Out of all of the books in the Love on the Edge series, Edge of Recovery has become my favorite. I like seeing the villains redeem themselves, because I like to believe in the good!
I'm a fan for life of Molly's! If you've read Edge of Chaos, this novella is a must! Pick up both books now!
I was apprehensive to read Edge of Recovery, as anyone who has read Edge of Chaos could imagine. Justin was easy to hate, an all around horrible character. I didn't feel as if he had any redeeming qualities, so why would I want to read a novella with him as the main character?
Edge of Chaos gave us Justin from Blake's perspective, but we never were able to fully hear his voice like could here. Learning what made Justin tick in this novella opened my heart to him.
Justin's problems come to a head in this story, and he is faced with choosing a prison sentence or swallowing his pride and going to rehab for his alcoholism. I found myself rooting for Justin to come through his hardships and become a good man. I loved how real Molly made the characters seem. Every detail was well-planned and felt like I was getting more story that I had expected to receive in a novella. There was depth, feeling, and a wonderful tie-in with two previous novels. This is was a nice, albeit sad at times, surprise. I love the the subtle connections between each book in the series. In 141 pages, I changed my mind about a character I hated, felt a full range of emotions, was given a conclusion I didn't know I wanted or needed, and was shocked by a twist I didn't see coming.
Out of all of the books in the Love on the Edge series, Edge of Recovery has become my favorite. I like seeing the villains redeem themselves, because I like to believe in the good!
I'm a fan for life of Molly's! If you've read Edge of Chaos, this novella is a must! Pick up both books now!
September 25, 2016
4 Stars
Read full review on https://5171milesbookblog.wordpress.com/
Edge of Recovery is the companion novella to Edge of Chaos and Molly surprised us with its surprise-release only a few weeks ago. :) Edge of Recovery is Justin’s story who we first meet in Edge of Chaos.
After hearing about the surprise-release, I was torn between reading it ASAP and never picking it up all. You see, when you’ve read Edge of Chaos you know what kind of person Justin is. I absolutely HATED him. But I gave him the benefit of the doubt: my disdain toward him couldn’t get any worse, could it? :D
Molly did a great job in writing this novella for us. And she actually made me like Justin again. His story is so sad and it made me feel sorry for him. He is in rehab for a reason; all the people in rehab are in there for a reason. They are sick and need help because they can’t help themselves anymore. Sure, there are people in it for the wrong reasons but if someone really wants to get better and puts a real effort in, then this person can make it.
If you plan on reading Edge of Recovery, please make sure to read Edge of Chaos first! That way you get the whole experience and understand the references. :)
Read full review on https://5171milesbookblog.wordpress.com/
Edge of Recovery is the companion novella to Edge of Chaos and Molly surprised us with its surprise-release only a few weeks ago. :) Edge of Recovery is Justin’s story who we first meet in Edge of Chaos.
After hearing about the surprise-release, I was torn between reading it ASAP and never picking it up all. You see, when you’ve read Edge of Chaos you know what kind of person Justin is. I absolutely HATED him. But I gave him the benefit of the doubt: my disdain toward him couldn’t get any worse, could it? :D
Molly did a great job in writing this novella for us. And she actually made me like Justin again. His story is so sad and it made me feel sorry for him. He is in rehab for a reason; all the people in rehab are in there for a reason. They are sick and need help because they can’t help themselves anymore. Sure, there are people in it for the wrong reasons but if someone really wants to get better and puts a real effort in, then this person can make it.
If you plan on reading Edge of Recovery, please make sure to read Edge of Chaos first! That way you get the whole experience and understand the references. :)
April 4, 2017
I can't believe I forgot to review this!!!
This is a definite game changer. I didn't know I could fall in love with the "villain" until Molly showed me it was not only possible, but he is now one of my favorite book boyfriends.
No spoilers here, but I will leave you with one of my favorite quotes from the novel.
"That is the beauty of broken things, they can be reworked, adjusted to build something even more beautiful than the original."
So, if you were on he fence about Edge Of Recovery, just jump in. You won't regret it!
This is a definite game changer. I didn't know I could fall in love with the "villain" until Molly showed me it was not only possible, but he is now one of my favorite book boyfriends.
No spoilers here, but I will leave you with one of my favorite quotes from the novel.
"That is the beauty of broken things, they can be reworked, adjusted to build something even more beautiful than the original."
So, if you were on he fence about Edge Of Recovery, just jump in. You won't regret it!
September 12, 2016
This book should be read after reading Edge of Chaos. If you haven't read EoC, you can still read this book, but there will be questions. There are no loose ends to this story and it wraps up nicely, but you'll still want to read Edge of Chaos. Because it's that good.
Man. I did not want to like Justin. I did not like him in Edge of Chaos. I wanted to kick him in the balls more times than I care to count. He was a cold, callused, selfish bastard. After what he did in EoC, I would have been happy to have never heard from him again. Ever. In the long history of ever.
But he and Molly had different plans. You see, Justin may have been the proverbial screw-up, but he had words to say, dang it!
I *thought* he had hit his rock bottom with the events in Edge of Chaos. I was wrong. So. Wrong. He continued a downward spiral of self destruction until he was given the ultimatum: rehab or prison. He may have been an idiot, but he isn't stupid. He took rehab.
But he made a huge mistake while in jail, awaiting trial for his spiral activities. He got in line with a man with no morals. Justin felt he had no other option. He didn't want to be there longer than was necessary so he took this deal and ran with it. It would come back to bite him. These things always do ... but ....
I'm going to go light on the Charlie side. It wasn't so much about Justin finding someone to lean on and be better for and wanting love from her. Yes, she was a HUGE part of his recovery process, but this story was really, truly about Justin finding himself. Digging himself out of the hole after asking Charlie to hand him the shovel.
No. This story was about REDEMPTION. It was about redeeming yourself after thinking for so long, so achingly long, that you were a monster. A menace. A blight on the Earth.
Edge of Recovery was a quick-paced, very enjoyable book. No matter how I felt about Justin going in, I came out wishing him the best. He deserves more and thanks to his actions in this book, he will definitely get his happily ever after.
Man. I did not want to like Justin. I did not like him in Edge of Chaos. I wanted to kick him in the balls more times than I care to count. He was a cold, callused, selfish bastard. After what he did in EoC, I would have been happy to have never heard from him again. Ever. In the long history of ever.
But he and Molly had different plans. You see, Justin may have been the proverbial screw-up, but he had words to say, dang it!
I *thought* he had hit his rock bottom with the events in Edge of Chaos. I was wrong. So. Wrong. He continued a downward spiral of self destruction until he was given the ultimatum: rehab or prison. He may have been an idiot, but he isn't stupid. He took rehab.
But he made a huge mistake while in jail, awaiting trial for his spiral activities. He got in line with a man with no morals. Justin felt he had no other option. He didn't want to be there longer than was necessary so he took this deal and ran with it. It would come back to bite him. These things always do ... but ....
I'm going to go light on the Charlie side. It wasn't so much about Justin finding someone to lean on and be better for and wanting love from her. Yes, she was a HUGE part of his recovery process, but this story was really, truly about Justin finding himself. Digging himself out of the hole after asking Charlie to hand him the shovel.
No. This story was about REDEMPTION. It was about redeeming yourself after thinking for so long, so achingly long, that you were a monster. A menace. A blight on the Earth.
Edge of Recovery was a quick-paced, very enjoyable book. No matter how I felt about Justin going in, I came out wishing him the best. He deserves more and thanks to his actions in this book, he will definitely get his happily ever after.
December 29, 2016
Review to come. ♥
June 29, 2022
It has been way too long since I have been in the middle of a Molly E Lee book. And that’s completely my fault. But I’m fixing that. Right now. Her book Edge of Chaos is one of the most unique romances I’ve ever read. Set in tornado alley with two very dynamic characters, that book was absolutely incredible! I hate the fact that I never had the chance to continue reading the rest of the series and got distracted from continuing on with these books and these characters, but I am so utterly glad to be catching up on them now.
Molly E Lee has such a dynamic way of writing her box. She lets you get in there. She puts an adrenaline and level of heart and connection into what she writes. She just does a phenomenal job of letting you live her story with her characters and it’s absolutely everything.
I won’t lie I was a little nervous about this novella. Justin was not a character who I loved and rightly so. He is complicated, he does some very bad things, and he hurt Blake. I didn’t know what to expect from his story but I have to say I really loved what this author gave me with him. She definitely showed a different side to him. She definitely showed that recovery as possible. And she definitely showed that you can heal from the things that try to break you.
I think this author does a fantastic job of letting you understand the demons that haunt Justin and she also just allows you to be there as he tries to put his life back together. She also weaves in a love story that is for bidden and just enjoyable from start to finish. The way that she balances it all out works really well for this world and it will just have you loving this novella. It will definitely push you to that edge, but it will show you that there is way more to these characters than meets the eye.
I’m so excited to continue on with the rest of these books because I have missed this world. I’ve missed the adrenaline pumping moments. I have missed the intensity of it all. I’ve missed how consuming these books are. I’ve missed this authors writing. I’ve missed it all and I’m eager to catch back up. I’m looking forward to reading all of these books and getting more of everything this author so fantastically creates. I have no doubt that I will continue loving the rest of these books!
This novella definitely pushes you to the edge but it will also allow you to understand so much about these characters. It will also bring you back to a world that is very dynamic and distinctive, and it will show you that healing is possible if you really fight like hell for it. I thought this novella was a fantastic addition to this world and it just made me realize that I should have kept up with this series, but I’m so glad that I’m finally catching up!
Molly E Lee has such a dynamic way of writing her box. She lets you get in there. She puts an adrenaline and level of heart and connection into what she writes. She just does a phenomenal job of letting you live her story with her characters and it’s absolutely everything.
I won’t lie I was a little nervous about this novella. Justin was not a character who I loved and rightly so. He is complicated, he does some very bad things, and he hurt Blake. I didn’t know what to expect from his story but I have to say I really loved what this author gave me with him. She definitely showed a different side to him. She definitely showed that recovery as possible. And she definitely showed that you can heal from the things that try to break you.
I think this author does a fantastic job of letting you understand the demons that haunt Justin and she also just allows you to be there as he tries to put his life back together. She also weaves in a love story that is for bidden and just enjoyable from start to finish. The way that she balances it all out works really well for this world and it will just have you loving this novella. It will definitely push you to that edge, but it will show you that there is way more to these characters than meets the eye.
I’m so excited to continue on with the rest of these books because I have missed this world. I’ve missed the adrenaline pumping moments. I have missed the intensity of it all. I’ve missed how consuming these books are. I’ve missed this authors writing. I’ve missed it all and I’m eager to catch back up. I’m looking forward to reading all of these books and getting more of everything this author so fantastically creates. I have no doubt that I will continue loving the rest of these books!
This novella definitely pushes you to the edge but it will also allow you to understand so much about these characters. It will also bring you back to a world that is very dynamic and distinctive, and it will show you that healing is possible if you really fight like hell for it. I thought this novella was a fantastic addition to this world and it just made me realize that I should have kept up with this series, but I’m so glad that I’m finally catching up!
January 24, 2018
Love it! 💜💜
I just fell in love with Justin in this one. I'm so glad that he finally got the help that he needed. That he was able work out his demons and I was glad Charlie was the person to dig deep. I'm so glad he got the ending he deserves.
I just fell in love with Justin in this one. I'm so glad that he finally got the help that he needed. That he was able work out his demons and I was glad Charlie was the person to dig deep. I'm so glad he got the ending he deserves.
January 24, 2018
I was so happy that Justin got his own book. I saw different side of him which made me a fan. I was rooting for him to get his life back on track. I'm so glad he met Charlie they were a perfect fit. I loved that she didn't go easy him. She knew him so well. I just loved getting to them.
October 7, 2016
I absolutely love this series! It is fast-paced, exciting and full of romance. I always look forward to the next release and don’t even need to read the synopsis to know that I am going to buy it. If you love contemporary romance books with a unique edge, this is defiantly the series for you.
Just like the previous books, Lee’s writing is great and entertaining! I was surprised at how well Lee was able to develop this book with how short it is. We were introduced to Justin in book one, Edge of Chaos, where he was not exactly the best of people. I always found him intriguing and wanted to find out more about him. I am glad that Lee gave his character redemption for his actions in the previous book.
Molly E. Lee was able to develop a complex character with deep rooted guilt in only a novella, which is a real accomplishment. I thought Justin’s character development was phenomenal and I felt sympathy for what he was going through. I also really enjoyed the newly introduced characters. Charlie, Justin’s love interest, was such a spunky, quick-witted character that you could not help but love. I really enjoyed that Charlie did not take any of Justin’s crap and was the backbone in Justin’s recovery.
The romance was great, but I expected no less from Lee. It was authentic and felt very realistic. I loved reading the slow burn of Charlie and Justin’s friendship evolving into something much deeper. Their bond over overcoming addiction was inspiring and I liked that the darker portions of addiction were not just glazed over.
I would HIGHLY recommend checking out this series. I am very grateful that I discovered Molly E. Lee and she quickly became one of my favorite authors. I cannot wait to read the other books in this series and anything else that Lee writes!
Just like the previous books, Lee’s writing is great and entertaining! I was surprised at how well Lee was able to develop this book with how short it is. We were introduced to Justin in book one, Edge of Chaos, where he was not exactly the best of people. I always found him intriguing and wanted to find out more about him. I am glad that Lee gave his character redemption for his actions in the previous book.
Molly E. Lee was able to develop a complex character with deep rooted guilt in only a novella, which is a real accomplishment. I thought Justin’s character development was phenomenal and I felt sympathy for what he was going through. I also really enjoyed the newly introduced characters. Charlie, Justin’s love interest, was such a spunky, quick-witted character that you could not help but love. I really enjoyed that Charlie did not take any of Justin’s crap and was the backbone in Justin’s recovery.
The romance was great, but I expected no less from Lee. It was authentic and felt very realistic. I loved reading the slow burn of Charlie and Justin’s friendship evolving into something much deeper. Their bond over overcoming addiction was inspiring and I liked that the darker portions of addiction were not just glazed over.
I would HIGHLY recommend checking out this series. I am very grateful that I discovered Molly E. Lee and she quickly became one of my favorite authors. I cannot wait to read the other books in this series and anything else that Lee writes!
November 16, 2018
I have always been a fan of Justin no matter what he'd done, and now I like him even more. I've read the first book a while ago so I may have a different view than those who haven't read it at all since I guess this book could be read as a standalone.
Justin struggled with his addiction but the force behind it, what drove him to reach for the bottle was much darker than what it seemed. What he had done haunted him day and night, so he drowned it even when it meant to fall farther down the rabbit hole. Life has dealt him a shitty hand and sadly it wasn’t ending now. With the right push he eventually recognized his faults and mistakes and set out to make amends.
I really liked Justin's story and I’m so glad that he got one even though he had to work very hard for his happy ending. It was sad to see Justin struggling so hard when he felt remorseful and tried to drown out the memories and voices inside his head with alcohol because they reared their heads again day after day. Justin's anger issues got out of control once again and he found himself with the back against the wall presented with two options. Both got him locked up but one was with a promise for a better future.
The pace was good for a novella and I really liked how everything turned out – surprises and all. But although Justin did struggle a lot, I felt at one point that it seemed almost too easy for him to not drink anymore. Don’t get me wrong, it was very well done for such a short read but I think that a page or two of his physical problems due to withdrawals would have made a huge impact on the story.
What I really liked though was that the story focused on Justin’s recovery and that the romance part took a backseat (at least for most of the book) because I really was more interested in him getting better than anything else.
Believe it or not but I even cried during this read. The emotions were so raw and powerful that they hurt me as if they were my own. Sorrowful and painful moments made me tear up a couple of times.
Justin’s troubled soul finally found piece and I am very glad about that because I always knew that there was good inside him.
‘Black filled my eyes, the thick kind that refused to clear no matter how many times I asked it to.’
Justin struggled with his addiction but the force behind it, what drove him to reach for the bottle was much darker than what it seemed. What he had done haunted him day and night, so he drowned it even when it meant to fall farther down the rabbit hole. Life has dealt him a shitty hand and sadly it wasn’t ending now. With the right push he eventually recognized his faults and mistakes and set out to make amends.
‘I had fucked up. I was fucked up. And I had no clue where to go from here.’
I really liked Justin's story and I’m so glad that he got one even though he had to work very hard for his happy ending. It was sad to see Justin struggling so hard when he felt remorseful and tried to drown out the memories and voices inside his head with alcohol because they reared their heads again day after day. Justin's anger issues got out of control once again and he found himself with the back against the wall presented with two options. Both got him locked up but one was with a promise for a better future.
‘I hadn’t realized how bad it was until it was beyond too late.’
The pace was good for a novella and I really liked how everything turned out – surprises and all. But although Justin did struggle a lot, I felt at one point that it seemed almost too easy for him to not drink anymore. Don’t get me wrong, it was very well done for such a short read but I think that a page or two of his physical problems due to withdrawals would have made a huge impact on the story.
What I really liked though was that the story focused on Justin’s recovery and that the romance part took a backseat (at least for most of the book) because I really was more interested in him getting better than anything else.
‘The taste of vodka pulsed on the back of my throat, teasing me with thirst, with the sensation the clear liquid could offer if I got my hands on a bottle.’
Believe it or not but I even cried during this read. The emotions were so raw and powerful that they hurt me as if they were my own. Sorrowful and painful moments made me tear up a couple of times.
‘It haunted me, and I knew I deserved no less.’
Justin’s troubled soul finally found piece and I am very glad about that because I always knew that there was good inside him.
January 6, 2020
Ugh I wanted to continue hating Justin after every freaking thing he did to Blake and for a minute in this book I was able to. This one has a lot more angst than the first read in the series but dang it there's plenty of reason for that. Justin truly hates the person he's become. The self absorbed abusive inconsiderate twat. But that being said he does try to make some changes thanks to a blast from the past. I almost gave this one 5 stars as well but there's too much I needed more from that kept that from happening. I needed the end to have a little more conflict even though I like the resolution. I really needed to know more about Charlie. I really like her and while I love that she takes no crap and rounds him out well I hope there's more of her character. Once again though you feel the emotion and the connection this book doesn't have more than one or two intimate scenes which I love but other's not so much. And you really need to read Edge of Chaos before this book to fully understand it.
January 13, 2019
When I saw that Molly Lee released a book about Justin, I was intrigued with how she would take a character that we were meant to hate in Edge of Chaos and turn him into a character we actually could feel we cared about and felt that he could be redeemed. Let me tell you......... she freaking did it, and did it beautifully!
We know what Justin did in Edge of Chaos, and now, 6 months later he's to his breaking point. After getting into a drunken bar fight, Justin is arrested and is sent to jail. His aunt that wants to reform a connection with him and try to help him gets him released early and into a rehab. Once there he learns to deal with his demons head on and make the change to become a better man.
I loved this story. It was a beautiful story of redemption and forgiveness. Some people might not like this story, but I loved it and think it was a great ending for a troubled character.
We know what Justin did in Edge of Chaos, and now, 6 months later he's to his breaking point. After getting into a drunken bar fight, Justin is arrested and is sent to jail. His aunt that wants to reform a connection with him and try to help him gets him released early and into a rehab. Once there he learns to deal with his demons head on and make the change to become a better man.
I loved this story. It was a beautiful story of redemption and forgiveness. Some people might not like this story, but I loved it and think it was a great ending for a troubled character.
December 29, 2016
I think Molly did a pretty excellent job at turning someone who I felt was the villian into something worth redeeming! while I do wish this story was a little bit longer so we could enjoy the character Justin was at the end I thought the pacing of the story works really well. you get an up close and personal look on the ripple effect of addiction and how it does not just affect the user but those around them too. there is no magic cure and the only person that can make the decision to stop is that person. .
January 17, 2017
I went into this book with a chip on my shoulder. I knew what Justin had done to Blake and I wanted to continue to hate him. However, Charlie is instrumental in changing his life and my opinion.
I also realized is that there is always another side to every story and not everything is always rainbows and butterflies. Life gets ugly!
Molly does an excellent job writing someone so broken. She pulls you into his nightmare and makes you want to help him find his way out. Charlie and Justin's story helped me remember that addiction is an illness.
I also realized is that there is always another side to every story and not everything is always rainbows and butterflies. Life gets ugly!
Molly does an excellent job writing someone so broken. She pulls you into his nightmare and makes you want to help him find his way out. Charlie and Justin's story helped me remember that addiction is an illness.
June 23, 2017
I was hesitate to read this book. Simply for the fact I completely depised Justin,the main character. If you've read edge of chaos you understand why. Second chances and those who are given them I thought I had a good idea that I didn't want that for Justin. After reading this book that is my complete opposite opinion. Justin story and his journey needs to be told. How can you truly form an opinion on someone without knowing the past. definitely an eye opener that hits close to home!
January 21, 2018
3 Stars
I would love to give this book 4, even 5, stars because everything that's wrong about it is what makes it a great story. However, there are a lot of things wrong. I understand this isn't real life, but I encourage anyone who's going to write a book involving rehab and recovery to do your research. There are things that happen that are hugely against program recommendations and would never happen in a rehab facility.
I would love to give this book 4, even 5, stars because everything that's wrong about it is what makes it a great story. However, there are a lot of things wrong. I understand this isn't real life, but I encourage anyone who's going to write a book involving rehab and recovery to do your research. There are things that happen that are hugely against program recommendations and would never happen in a rehab facility.
August 3, 2017
This is Justin's story, told completely in his POV. This book could be read as a standalone but to fully appreciate the story, I strongly recommend reading EOC. I hated him in the previous book but I did enjoy his story and happy for what he gained by the end. It was interesting to see his perspective on his relationship with Blake and watch him grow while in recovery.
May 31, 2017
Perfectly written
I loved being able to read Justin's story and hearing his side of things. The struggles he goes through are struggles people face every day and this story was beautifully written.
I loved being able to read Justin's story and hearing his side of things. The struggles he goes through are struggles people face every day and this story was beautifully written.
September 23, 2017
Surprised
I came into this book with hatred for the main character . By the end of this book, I had changed my mind about him. By the end i was cheering for him. This story surprised me.
I came into this book with hatred for the main character . By the end of this book, I had changed my mind about him. By the end i was cheering for him. This story surprised me.
March 8, 2018
I love reading what happen to the bad guy stories. I was so into this book. I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it. I look forward to finishing this series.
October 16, 2016
Brilliant!
I loved that she wrote this book. That Justin got redemption. Not only in this story but with us readers.
Molly did an excellent job with this book too. Words can't explain how well executed it was. The struggles people have. It's around us more than we realize.
One thing is for sure, Molly is destined to be a writer. She does an excellent job and she knocks them out so quickly too. Thank you once again for a splendid read.
I loved that she wrote this book. That Justin got redemption. Not only in this story but with us readers.
Molly did an excellent job with this book too. Words can't explain how well executed it was. The struggles people have. It's around us more than we realize.
One thing is for sure, Molly is destined to be a writer. She does an excellent job and she knocks them out so quickly too. Thank you once again for a splendid read.
March 25, 2017
The second book for the Love on the Edge Series by Molly E. Lee. The second book is Justin Story from Edge of Chaos! I hated Justin character is the first book just because he a bad guy. But this book I have turned out to love Justin's character. You get more inside his mind... I love this author, how much detail she puts in all her characters and her storyline.
September 12, 2016
5 "The Recovery of a Lost Heart and Soul" Stars!
If you've read Molly Lee's Edge of Chaos, then you know that's where we get our first glance at what we thought was the "real" Justin. So naturally going into this book, I was terrified of how I would feel by the end because there are just some things that were unforgivable when "Justin" came to mind.
I've never been more wrong about having a character pegged as I was with Justin.
I went in with a cold heart towards him and came out more in love than I've ever been with a bully turned hero character in this book world...
Justin simply comes from a past he is constantly dealing with tenfold. A past he is not proud of and is easily ashamed of. The nightmares, the voices, the images, he can't get them out of his head; of the monster he once was and still believes he is.
He wasn't always this monster, but he does believe it's inevitable to go back beyond the night when he lost himself. The only way to quiet everything?
Become numb.
"That's what happened when nothing mattered anymore. When you couldn't stand to look in a mirror or be alone in the room with yourself for more than five minutes."
Justin hit rock bottom. Certain events lead to his demise. His only way out? Rehab; trying at a completely new leaf. As the days go by Justin is like every other new addict; doesn't believe it'll change him and is counting down the days until his program is finished and he can get the hell out of there.
"I've got more of the devil in me than anyone I know, and the only thing that soothes the ache is his poison of choice."
Until he meets her...
Charlie.
His new sponsor. Quick witted, smoking hot, and 100% off limits!
Justin is quickly captivated by Charlie and how easy she is at reading him as well as how much they're just alike.
"She stared at me again like she had moments before as if she were reaching into my soul and plucking out all the intimate details."
As the weeks carry on, Justin finds himself opening up to Charlie fairly easily. But with that comes his insane attraction towards her escalating at a furious rate. Charlie believed in him, even when he didn't believe in himself. She simply pushed while he pulled.
"Without judgement or fear, she gave me every single thing I needed without asking for a thing in return except that I be the man she believed me to be."
Charlie's overall allure towards Justin may eventually make them snap, rules be damned.
"It's like we've been living side by side for much longer than we've ever known."
But what happens when Justin is stuck between two rocks and a hard place? He does the one thing Charlie asked him to avoid doing. That alone may cost him his only meaning worth living for.
Molly Lee brings brings us an incredible story of how our demons can bring out the worst in us. How being monstrous in our pasts doesn't mean our future has to be that way. Recovery and redemption are ALWAYS possible.
If you've read Molly Lee's Edge of Chaos, then you know that's where we get our first glance at what we thought was the "real" Justin. So naturally going into this book, I was terrified of how I would feel by the end because there are just some things that were unforgivable when "Justin" came to mind.
I've never been more wrong about having a character pegged as I was with Justin.
I went in with a cold heart towards him and came out more in love than I've ever been with a bully turned hero character in this book world...
Justin simply comes from a past he is constantly dealing with tenfold. A past he is not proud of and is easily ashamed of. The nightmares, the voices, the images, he can't get them out of his head; of the monster he once was and still believes he is.
He wasn't always this monster, but he does believe it's inevitable to go back beyond the night when he lost himself. The only way to quiet everything?
Become numb.
"That's what happened when nothing mattered anymore. When you couldn't stand to look in a mirror or be alone in the room with yourself for more than five minutes."
Justin hit rock bottom. Certain events lead to his demise. His only way out? Rehab; trying at a completely new leaf. As the days go by Justin is like every other new addict; doesn't believe it'll change him and is counting down the days until his program is finished and he can get the hell out of there.
"I've got more of the devil in me than anyone I know, and the only thing that soothes the ache is his poison of choice."
Until he meets her...
Charlie.
His new sponsor. Quick witted, smoking hot, and 100% off limits!
Justin is quickly captivated by Charlie and how easy she is at reading him as well as how much they're just alike.
"She stared at me again like she had moments before as if she were reaching into my soul and plucking out all the intimate details."
As the weeks carry on, Justin finds himself opening up to Charlie fairly easily. But with that comes his insane attraction towards her escalating at a furious rate. Charlie believed in him, even when he didn't believe in himself. She simply pushed while he pulled.
"Without judgement or fear, she gave me every single thing I needed without asking for a thing in return except that I be the man she believed me to be."
Charlie's overall allure towards Justin may eventually make them snap, rules be damned.
"It's like we've been living side by side for much longer than we've ever known."
But what happens when Justin is stuck between two rocks and a hard place? He does the one thing Charlie asked him to avoid doing. That alone may cost him his only meaning worth living for.
Molly Lee brings brings us an incredible story of how our demons can bring out the worst in us. How being monstrous in our pasts doesn't mean our future has to be that way. Recovery and redemption are ALWAYS possible.
September 20, 2016
5 absolutely beautiful stars.
We meet Justin in the first book in this series which is, Edge of Chaos, and he is pretty much a bastard. A real effin' bastard. And I was like good riddance but than Molly E. Lee springs a story about this a*hole who almost destroyed Blake. At first, I really, really, didn't want to know his story because how can what he did to someone be justifiable?
BUT THAT'S NOT WHAT I GOT.
I got something entirely different. Something so heartbreaking, absolutely wrenching. I learned about this monster. A man who thinks he is a monster. Wow. Molly E. Lee certainly knows how to write a roller coaster of emotions on a guy who I believed didn't even deserve a story.
I did not want to like him. I wanted to hate him as much as I did in EoC. Instead, I felt for him. I fell in love with this monster. I even re-read EoC with a whole new perspective on Justin.
Like all of Molly's books this book did not hesitate to make me cry and connect with her wonderful well-written characters.
Justin didn't just hit a darkened road in EoC but when we see his perspective in Edge of Recovery he is so far worse than before - so dark, and spiraling down a path he's ready to lose his soul too.
Until he get's a choice.
Rehab or prison.
This is where everything for him starts to turn around and mold him into someone better. We are introduced to Charlie - oh god. I loved her. I adored her. *Mentally adds her to the list of characters I fell in love with by Molly E. Lee.* She was so . . . understanding. A huge part in Justin's recovery. And honestly, I don't really think this was about Justin finding someone to bare his soul too and lean on but this novel was more about him learning, healing, and most importantly, finding himself. Something that defines him other than bottles, jail, Blake, storms, drugs.
What his story was really about was redemption.
Charlie was such a fierce character (like all characters in Molly E. Lee's novels). Whenever Justin pushed her away, she'd pull him harder. And he finds himself opening up to her. She believed in him when no one else would, when he didn't believe in himself.
Molly has a way with words that suck you right in like a vortex. She weaved through the words, making you feel for Justin while not excusing what he has done in his past. I always write this when I type my reviews but I LOVE books with meaning. It makes me reflect on my life and this book didn't hesitate to do so. Molly teaches the importance of forgiveness. There is always another side to a story and Justin's side of the story was definitely worth it.
(going to add quotes from this novel later on)
We meet Justin in the first book in this series which is, Edge of Chaos, and he is pretty much a bastard. A real effin' bastard. And I was like good riddance but than Molly E. Lee springs a story about this a*hole who almost destroyed Blake. At first, I really, really, didn't want to know his story because how can what he did to someone be justifiable?
BUT THAT'S NOT WHAT I GOT.
I got something entirely different. Something so heartbreaking, absolutely wrenching. I learned about this monster. A man who thinks he is a monster. Wow. Molly E. Lee certainly knows how to write a roller coaster of emotions on a guy who I believed didn't even deserve a story.
I did not want to like him. I wanted to hate him as much as I did in EoC. Instead, I felt for him. I fell in love with this monster. I even re-read EoC with a whole new perspective on Justin.
Like all of Molly's books this book did not hesitate to make me cry and connect with her wonderful well-written characters.
Justin didn't just hit a darkened road in EoC but when we see his perspective in Edge of Recovery he is so far worse than before - so dark, and spiraling down a path he's ready to lose his soul too.
Until he get's a choice.
Rehab or prison.
This is where everything for him starts to turn around and mold him into someone better. We are introduced to Charlie - oh god. I loved her. I adored her. *Mentally adds her to the list of characters I fell in love with by Molly E. Lee.* She was so . . . understanding. A huge part in Justin's recovery. And honestly, I don't really think this was about Justin finding someone to bare his soul too and lean on but this novel was more about him learning, healing, and most importantly, finding himself. Something that defines him other than bottles, jail, Blake, storms, drugs.
What his story was really about was redemption.
Charlie was such a fierce character (like all characters in Molly E. Lee's novels). Whenever Justin pushed her away, she'd pull him harder. And he finds himself opening up to her. She believed in him when no one else would, when he didn't believe in himself.
Molly has a way with words that suck you right in like a vortex. She weaved through the words, making you feel for Justin while not excusing what he has done in his past. I always write this when I type my reviews but I LOVE books with meaning. It makes me reflect on my life and this book didn't hesitate to do so. Molly teaches the importance of forgiveness. There is always another side to a story and Justin's side of the story was definitely worth it.
(going to add quotes from this novel later on)
September 12, 2016
When I heard Justin was getting his own book, I grimaced. After reading Molly E. Lee's AMAZING debut, Edge of Chaos, I was pretty much done with Justin. I had made up my mind about him. And nothing could change it.
Except Molly Lee somehow did.
Justin's story isn't pretty. It's dark and gritty, like Justin himself. Edge of Recovery takes place a little after Edge of Chaos (I strongly suggest reading that one first. Not because this one can't be read on it's own, but you will seriously spoil EOC if you start with this one, and EOC deserves to be read. It's phenomenal). Justin has fallen lower than I thought possible, stifling his bad memories with booze, and letting his anger get the better of him. When that anger lands him in jail, he is given two choices: he can wait out his sentence behind bars and come out possibly worse than he went in, or he can accept his aunt's offer to send him to a super-fancy rehab clinic and try to get clean.
Justin chooses rehab, thinking this will be the easy way out, but little does he know he is in for a rough road. Redemption won't come easy to Justin (thank goodness). He has to prove himself worthy over and over, to both Charlie, his sponsor, and us, the reader.
This is a quick read, but in no way a fluffy one. The sparks between Charlie and Justin kept me wanting to see where they would end up, but mostly I needed to see where Justin would end up. The answer surprised me.
Except Molly Lee somehow did.
Justin's story isn't pretty. It's dark and gritty, like Justin himself. Edge of Recovery takes place a little after Edge of Chaos (I strongly suggest reading that one first. Not because this one can't be read on it's own, but you will seriously spoil EOC if you start with this one, and EOC deserves to be read. It's phenomenal). Justin has fallen lower than I thought possible, stifling his bad memories with booze, and letting his anger get the better of him. When that anger lands him in jail, he is given two choices: he can wait out his sentence behind bars and come out possibly worse than he went in, or he can accept his aunt's offer to send him to a super-fancy rehab clinic and try to get clean.
Justin chooses rehab, thinking this will be the easy way out, but little does he know he is in for a rough road. Redemption won't come easy to Justin (thank goodness). He has to prove himself worthy over and over, to both Charlie, his sponsor, and us, the reader.
This is a quick read, but in no way a fluffy one. The sparks between Charlie and Justin kept me wanting to see where they would end up, but mostly I needed to see where Justin would end up. The answer surprised me.
October 3, 2016
I was really hesitant to read this book. I wasn't sure how I'd feel after seeing the way Justin acted in Edge of Chaos. After finishing that book I just wanted to hate his guts and leave it at that. But another part of me wanted to see if he'd really change and where the journey of change would take him. There was a lot about this book that I completely disagreed with. Like for example an addict isn't suppose to be romantically involved with anyone until they are at least a year sober. Another thing, it was entirely inappropriate for Justin and his sponsor Charlie to get together. I know it's said multiple times in the book so they know this and I just wish they'd take their own doubts to heart. It isn't right to base all your reason for getting sober on someone, because if something happens with that person it could cause the addict to regress big time. But Justin did seem to want to get sober for himself and Charlie was just the push he needed. As hard as it was to get through this book because of Justin's previous actions, I'm glad I gave him a second chance, because everyone deserves one. I'm glad I got to see a better side to Justin and that he got some happiness back because he deserves it. As many flaws that I felt the characters had, this is probably my favorite book in the series.
September 12, 2016
Justin was a complete and utter tool in Edge of Chaos, and I couldn't stand him, and part of that was you loved Blake so much. You see what the abusive relationship is doing to her, and you can't understand how Justin could do that to her. Now, if I am honest with myself, I read this book simply because Molly E. Lee put it out, not because I cared about Justin. Her books are emotional, real, and I always seem to have a genuine connection with the characters, so even though it was about Justin, I gave it a go. I had a feeling she would make me love him…and she did. It was amazing to read about Justin's recover, and his budding relationship with Charlie. There are obviously issues going into this book that if not addressed correctly, could be insensitive at best, or hurtful at worst, but Molly E. Lee did a fantastic job of navigating the sensitive issues, as well as not excusing Justin's actions. She teaches you to forgive, and helps you remember that there is always another side to a story.
It is told in first person, from Justin's perspective. And even thought it is a novella, it didn't feel too short, the length felt just right.
Side note, I noticed there was a very minor character in here named Connell, and the blurb for her new book mentions the new heroes name is Connell. I hope it is the same person and we get to hear more of his story. We shall see.
It is told in first person, from Justin's perspective. And even thought it is a novella, it didn't feel too short, the length felt just right.
Side note, I noticed there was a very minor character in here named Connell, and the blurb for her new book mentions the new heroes name is Connell. I hope it is the same person and we get to hear more of his story. We shall see.
January 26, 2017
I absolutely loved the other books in this series but wasn't expecting this to be Justin's story, I went in blind without reading the blurb .. as per usual. I wasn't sure where this was going to go and at what point we were joining in the story so I have to say I started off a bit nervous!
There was absolutely nothing to be nervous about, what a fantastic story! I literally read this in one day, absolutely flew through it. The story flows beautifully, the characters are flawed and fantastic. This is an amazing story of finding yourself and your inner strength, how it is never too late to change your life but the only person that can do that is you.
Addiction is so hard and there are so many people that lose the battle every year, this is a subject that touches me personally, as I'm sure it does many. And I guess that is where my initial hesitation came from, there are so many that don't win this battle, how hard will it be to read that and process those emotions and internal struggle as a reader.
It is beautifully, delicately written, just enough that we know what he is going through without drowning in his sorrow but elating in his joy. This was an absolute joy to read and I will definitely be recommending to many people!
There was absolutely nothing to be nervous about, what a fantastic story! I literally read this in one day, absolutely flew through it. The story flows beautifully, the characters are flawed and fantastic. This is an amazing story of finding yourself and your inner strength, how it is never too late to change your life but the only person that can do that is you.
Addiction is so hard and there are so many people that lose the battle every year, this is a subject that touches me personally, as I'm sure it does many. And I guess that is where my initial hesitation came from, there are so many that don't win this battle, how hard will it be to read that and process those emotions and internal struggle as a reader.
It is beautifully, delicately written, just enough that we know what he is going through without drowning in his sorrow but elating in his joy. This was an absolute joy to read and I will definitely be recommending to many people!
September 15, 2016
I was unsure if I wanted to read Justin's story. In Edge of Chaos I had detested everything about him and didn't know how I'd see anything redeeming in his character. I completely changed my mind a few chapters into this book. He was a definite villain, but this villain is deeply regretful for what he has done and may get a happily ever after anyways! I loved how he got a chance to fall for someone else and have her love be the reason to stay sober. He wants to be a better man for Charlie. I thought for a novella it had a great story. I was sad to see it end. I would have loved a little bit more of an ending, but I think Molly did a great job with telling Justin's tale. I'm glad that she gave him a voice so we could see his struggles with addiction and how he works every day to overcome them just like so many people do. Of course I loved the glimpse of Blake and Dash as well. Love them! Great read and even if you hated Justin, give this book a chance. Totally worth the read.
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