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Thalia #2
Striking a Balance
Thalia may be free, but can she learn to live after the darkness?
Thalia and James have just met under the most insane of circumstances. He purchased her at an underground auction from a man who kidnapped her, tormented her, and sold her to the highest bidder.
In their first few months together Thalia wants to view James as her savior, her knight in shining armor that she can stay with in safety, but she can't escape the trauma she went through and the lingering effects it has caused. James isn't sure, now that he has Thalia, if he can handle the depth of submission she displays.
Can James help her strike a balance between who she is as a person and her newfound craving for submission, or will her urge to submit swallow her whole until James has no choice but to set her free?
**Publisher's Note: This book contains BDSM, strong language, and discussions of dubious consent which may be triggering for some readers. Intended for mature audiences.**
Thalia and James have just met under the most insane of circumstances. He purchased her at an underground auction from a man who kidnapped her, tormented her, and sold her to the highest bidder.
In their first few months together Thalia wants to view James as her savior, her knight in shining armor that she can stay with in safety, but she can't escape the trauma she went through and the lingering effects it has caused. James isn't sure, now that he has Thalia, if he can handle the depth of submission she displays.
Can James help her strike a balance between who she is as a person and her newfound craving for submission, or will her urge to submit swallow her whole until James has no choice but to set her free?
**Publisher's Note: This book contains BDSM, strong language, and discussions of dubious consent which may be triggering for some readers. Intended for mature audiences.**
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2015
289 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bene
63 books1,942 followersJennifer Bene is a USA Today bestselling author of dangerously sexy and deviously dark romance. From BDSM, to Suspense, Dark Romance, and Thrillers—she writes it all. Always delivering a twisty, spine-tingling journey with the promise of a happily-ever-after.
Don't miss a release! Sign up for the newsletter to get new book alerts (and a free welcome book) at http://jenniferbene.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
August 5, 2018
2.5 STARS
I bought the boxed set ~grumble, grumble~ so I'm moving on to the third book.
PS: Book 1 is still FREE and definitely worth a read!
"Being with me is not about survival, it's about living."Tons of unrealized potential in the continuation of Thalia's story. Despite a few good moments, the story was mostly superficial and trite.
I bought the boxed set ~grumble, grumble~ so I'm moving on to the third book.
PS: Book 1 is still FREE and definitely worth a read!
January 1, 2018
Wow. Where to begin? This book carries on seamlessly from book 1, and we get to see the way Thalia adjusts to her new life. As you'd expect its not without some issue. I loved the insight into hers and James' relationship as dom and sub snd the building of trust between them. I think one of the things I enjoyed the most in this story is the struggle for balance (see what I did there?) and that its not an easy jump for Thalia to go from the fire into safety and comfort. Its gritty and painful but its so realistic because of it.
The scenes were an absolute pleasure to read, my mouth was dry and I found myself immersed in them. I wouldnt mind trying a few of those myself sometime hehe.
The new characters we get to meet are so interesting and I'd actually love to get to know them better, hopefully in the next book or maybe a spinoff. Kalen is a fascinating character and extremely attractive in the way he is portrayed and carries himself. I wouldnt mind a Kalen and james sandwich in the least.
Watching the characters coming into their own as the story went on, rediscovering themselves and finding new facets they werent even aware of through exploration, and pushing boundaries, it was a thrilling read and I was shocked when I came to end because I simply MUST know how it turns out.
The scenes were an absolute pleasure to read, my mouth was dry and I found myself immersed in them. I wouldnt mind trying a few of those myself sometime hehe.
The new characters we get to meet are so interesting and I'd actually love to get to know them better, hopefully in the next book or maybe a spinoff. Kalen is a fascinating character and extremely attractive in the way he is portrayed and carries himself. I wouldnt mind a Kalen and james sandwich in the least.
Watching the characters coming into their own as the story went on, rediscovering themselves and finding new facets they werent even aware of through exploration, and pushing boundaries, it was a thrilling read and I was shocked when I came to end because I simply MUST know how it turns out.
August 23, 2016
The beginning and the end were all right, but really, how many love scenes can you read without yawning. So I skipped over two thirds of the book, once I got the "lay" of the land LOL. Thalia and James are truly ideal for each other, but Bene could have gotten the message across in about 75 pages and skipped all the repetitive sex. Which I did. Not sure about the third book but will at least give it a try.
December 11, 2017
I'm loving this series so far, It's keeping me completely sucked in. This book was definitely lighter and less traumatic than the first, but that was a great reprieve. . It's nice watching a love story unfold after all the darkness in the last book. I'm basically binge reading this entire series at this point.
February 16, 2024
Thalia has been sold. However, her Dom (yes, more like it), is a total opposite to her captor. She finds herself whisked out of her country to London, where she is in a BDSM relationship. Her struggles are real in both senses (see what I did there 🤭). Due to the ingrained, intense training she was forced to endure in book 1, her head is so completely into being a slave she can’t separate the two. This leads her lovely Dom (I so need a James 🤫) into contacting an old friend/brother for help. Thalia ends up in ‘Purgatory’, a school for submissives in Scotland, in order for her to work through her headspace (subspace is not a problem for her lol)
May 2, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. The depth of the characters is amazing. The reality of Thalia's PTSD, and other issues as a result of the things she went through are extremely accurately portrayed. I can't wait to read the next book.
December 28, 2017
After book 1’s ending, I was IMPATIENTLY waiting for this book. Which thankfully I only had to wait about .2 seconds before starting.
I wasn’t sure what to expect. Another sadistic lover? Someone for Thalia to fear? Did she make the wrong choice?
Well, let me tell you. 150% Thalia made the right choice. I ADORE JAMES. He’s hot as all f*ck, and definitely hits all the right places if you know what I mean. Honestly, I could go a few rounds with him and STILL not be tired.
But, we’re getting off topic here.
While book 1 had me on the edge of my seat the entire time, book 2 had me all hot and sweaty and multiple other things.
James shows Thalia what a TRUE consensual D/s relationship is like and how to go from being a full time sub to a part time.
However, it isn’t easy. Thalia’s demons are trying to consume her as she and James fight toward a future together. But just when Thalia and James think they’ve got everything figured out BAM
I don’t want to ruin the ending but JENNIFER! WTF! HOW CAN YOU DO THIS TO ME. AGAIN!
I swear I’m going to have blood pressure problems. Or a damn coronary.
I HAVE ANXIETY YOU CANT DO THIS TO ME.
Sorry guys, I’m on to book 3 I can’t deal with this.
Must read if you’ve read book 1.
I wasn’t sure what to expect. Another sadistic lover? Someone for Thalia to fear? Did she make the wrong choice?
Well, let me tell you. 150% Thalia made the right choice. I ADORE JAMES. He’s hot as all f*ck, and definitely hits all the right places if you know what I mean. Honestly, I could go a few rounds with him and STILL not be tired.
But, we’re getting off topic here.
While book 1 had me on the edge of my seat the entire time, book 2 had me all hot and sweaty and multiple other things.
James shows Thalia what a TRUE consensual D/s relationship is like and how to go from being a full time sub to a part time.
However, it isn’t easy. Thalia’s demons are trying to consume her as she and James fight toward a future together. But just when Thalia and James think they’ve got everything figured out BAM
I don’t want to ruin the ending but JENNIFER! WTF! HOW CAN YOU DO THIS TO ME. AGAIN!
I swear I’m going to have blood pressure problems. Or a damn coronary.
I HAVE ANXIETY YOU CANT DO THIS TO ME.
Sorry guys, I’m on to book 3 I can’t deal with this.
Must read if you’ve read book 1.
September 17, 2024
Qué decepción. Fácilmente debí haberme dado por vencida antes del diez por ciento.
December 23, 2019
A really good follow up to Security Binds Her
The first thing I will say is that Striking a Balance must be read after reading Security Binds Her . This book really won't make any sense without an indepth knowledge of the events that occur in Book #1.
Whilst the first book is a very dark read, this was much more of a contemporary BDSM romance read, though I do believe the next book edgers into darker territory. Having read and loved SBH , I very much wanted to continue on this journey with Thalia. Although the story didn't quite proceed in the way I imagined it would, it is still a very captivating and engaging read. In fact I thoroughly enjoyed it, loving how it was more about getting to know James, the hero, and to understand the dynamic between he and Thalia
This picks up from where SBH ends, with Thalia setting off to begin her new life with James. At one point (and this was a fair chunk into the book) I began to wonder why Thalia wasn't receiving more help following her captivity, rape and torture. I got that letting the authorities know what had happened would put James in the firing line, but with his resources he should have been able to get her some type of support. It was almost enough to reduce my enjoyment of the book, until it wasn't. Stick with it because, just as I reached that point, we get a very unexpected twist that leads to truths being revealed and a total change in direction of the book.
Most of the time it felt as though Thalia still remained a captive, captive in a different way but still not truly free. This gave a much needed edge to the book and kept me reading. She is so totally lost that at times it was difficult to 'get' her character, but that is the whole point. I felt that the author did an amazing job of portraying how very broken Thalia is.
Written in third person the book also allowed me to get a very good feel for James, both as a character and also as a Dom. There were times I wanted to shake the arrogance from him, thankfully Thalia did a damn good job of doing just that when her confession pulled the rug out from under his feet. He has a selfish streak, that was shown by the fact that he watched footage of Thalia, knowing the girl wasn't a willing trainee slave. But I liked how it made him fallible and human, so much more believable as a 'hero'.
Finally, and oh my word, that cliffhanger - the only reason I'm not cursing the author is because book #3 is already available, lol. I'm off to read that one now!
The first thing I will say is that Striking a Balance must be read after reading Security Binds Her . This book really won't make any sense without an indepth knowledge of the events that occur in Book #1.
Whilst the first book is a very dark read, this was much more of a contemporary BDSM romance read, though I do believe the next book edgers into darker territory. Having read and loved SBH , I very much wanted to continue on this journey with Thalia. Although the story didn't quite proceed in the way I imagined it would, it is still a very captivating and engaging read. In fact I thoroughly enjoyed it, loving how it was more about getting to know James, the hero, and to understand the dynamic between he and Thalia
This picks up from where SBH ends, with Thalia setting off to begin her new life with James. At one point (and this was a fair chunk into the book) I began to wonder why Thalia wasn't receiving more help following her captivity, rape and torture. I got that letting the authorities know what had happened would put James in the firing line, but with his resources he should have been able to get her some type of support. It was almost enough to reduce my enjoyment of the book, until it wasn't. Stick with it because, just as I reached that point, we get a very unexpected twist that leads to truths being revealed and a total change in direction of the book.
Most of the time it felt as though Thalia still remained a captive, captive in a different way but still not truly free. This gave a much needed edge to the book and kept me reading. She is so totally lost that at times it was difficult to 'get' her character, but that is the whole point. I felt that the author did an amazing job of portraying how very broken Thalia is.
Written in third person the book also allowed me to get a very good feel for James, both as a character and also as a Dom. There were times I wanted to shake the arrogance from him, thankfully Thalia did a damn good job of doing just that when her confession pulled the rug out from under his feet. He has a selfish streak, that was shown by the fact that he watched footage of Thalia, knowing the girl wasn't a willing trainee slave. But I liked how it made him fallible and human, so much more believable as a 'hero'.
Finally, and oh my word, that cliffhanger - the only reason I'm not cursing the author is because book #3 is already available, lol. I'm off to read that one now!
July 28, 2018
Let me first start of by saying I flove Jennifer's writing. The more I read her books, the quicker she's becoming one of my all time fave authors. Jennifer's books don't just grab a hold of you, they sink their claws in you and don't let go. This series is amazing! Steamy, deliciousness with intrigue at every corner.
May 3, 2023
My loves, everything Jennifer Benne does is brilliant. I loved her "Jasmine" and her "Beth series". And those ladys were both terrific fighters. However i just couldn't like this one. I couldn't like the way the story was told. That said... Unpopular opinion here: i was uneasy with the tone of the book. Initially I didn't knew why, only later did I realize the reason... The protagonist was clearly broken and sexually programmed when the hero bought her at auction. And even though he was way less abusive than Marcus, it didn't stop himself from wanting to sleep with her after she had a panic attack in his car. He knew she was suffering, and he knew why. He had watched Marcus trained her. His methods for breaking her: using sex. He saw it. Enjoy it!!!
To some extent, Marcus turned out to be a more complex character than the protagonist, the story which we saw in the first book. He didn't assume to be anything more than he was: a monster. And i, the reader, didn't care. I loved his darkness, because it was blatantly wrong. And we all knew it! I could feel anger at him, and pity, and more anger... It was a more "armed" character. We knew what to expect from him. Oh... And the irony, is that he began to develop feelings for Thalia. Based on lust, but still: honest.
The protagonist, James, said he wanted the heroine to be "herself", but treated her like an inflated doll. He knew she had a background of permanent abuse with Marcus. And it didn't adjust the "treatment". He never got around to giving her a real chance of her composing herself without the influence of the reward mechanism that was sex for her (and which she used to her advantage in order to avoid the darker side of Marcus). So yeah, i'm pissed at James. He even took her to be "presented" to another man!!
Marcus controlled her, threatened her with aggression and brute force. And yeah, as a reader it was fun to watch ;) But James took advantage of her fear and vulnerability, nullifying her even more, just so that he could be in control: a more powerful, """"kind""" and calculated control hidden behind the rules of true BDSM: sane , safe and consensual. But it really wasn't. Because she wasn't in her right frame of mind.
But hey, he was there, so that he could "rebuilt" her. At his pleasure. She trully needed her freedom, care... MENTAL care. But James was just another bully. A more controled one. Less "imposing", more pervading... Yeah i really disliked James. I felt sorry for Thalia.
That said, i always respect a book that make me feel something powerful... Even if i don't like the feeling or don't "agree" with the plot ;)
To some extent, Marcus turned out to be a more complex character than the protagonist, the story which we saw in the first book. He didn't assume to be anything more than he was: a monster. And i, the reader, didn't care. I loved his darkness, because it was blatantly wrong. And we all knew it! I could feel anger at him, and pity, and more anger... It was a more "armed" character. We knew what to expect from him. Oh... And the irony, is that he began to develop feelings for Thalia. Based on lust, but still: honest.
The protagonist, James, said he wanted the heroine to be "herself", but treated her like an inflated doll. He knew she had a background of permanent abuse with Marcus. And it didn't adjust the "treatment". He never got around to giving her a real chance of her composing herself without the influence of the reward mechanism that was sex for her (and which she used to her advantage in order to avoid the darker side of Marcus). So yeah, i'm pissed at James. He even took her to be "presented" to another man!!
Marcus controlled her, threatened her with aggression and brute force. And yeah, as a reader it was fun to watch ;) But James took advantage of her fear and vulnerability, nullifying her even more, just so that he could be in control: a more powerful, """"kind""" and calculated control hidden behind the rules of true BDSM: sane , safe and consensual. But it really wasn't. Because she wasn't in her right frame of mind.
But hey, he was there, so that he could "rebuilt" her. At his pleasure. She trully needed her freedom, care... MENTAL care. But James was just another bully. A more controled one. Less "imposing", more pervading... Yeah i really disliked James. I felt sorry for Thalia.
That said, i always respect a book that make me feel something powerful... Even if i don't like the feeling or don't "agree" with the plot ;)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2017
"The threat that Marcus had held over her was gone. The threat of Marcus himself, and his twisted brother, Anthony, was gone."
Holy crap!! Finally!!! Thalia is away from Marcus and Anthony!!! Just like the first book, I could NOT put this one down!! Can I please have a James of my very own?? Be still my heart!! After all the suffering that Thalia endured, she deserves this man! This series has definitely captured my heart and sunk it's teeth in deep... I just can't get enough of it!
If you haven't read Security Binds Her, you need to read it first or you will be totally lost. This book picks right up where Security Binds Her left off. Although James is Thalia's new Master she quickly learns that James is NOTHING like Marcus. Unlike Marcus, James cares. He bought Thalia to rescue her from Marcus and his cruel brother, however, that wasn't the only reason he bought her. James too desired Thalia just as much as Marcus did. BUT, even after buying her James gives her a choice. She can spend the next 6 months with him, and then decide if she wants stay with him or leave, OR, she is free to leave right now and he will do his best to help her get her life back together.
“Master, I will never go back to Marcus. I hope his whole world crashes down around him and his sadistic fuck of a brother. I hope he’s never able to take another girl. He said he was going to break me, well, I hope I fucking broke him when I left.”
During her enslavement with Marcus, Thalia discovers that she actually enjoys being a bit of a masochist and decides to stay with James for the next 6 months in hopes of finding a future. They both go into this journey knowing that it won't be easy, but James is determined to prove to Thalia that she can indulge in her newly found desires and still be in control, something she never had with Marcus. What James hadn't anticipated was the amount of psychological damage that Marcus had inflicted upon Thalia during her entrapment.
This books is about the struggles, failures, and triumphs that James and Thalia endure as they try to find out if they have any chance of a life together...
“If this is what you want, you have to be able to balance life as a submissive, and life as yourself. Which means you have to be capable of being yourself.”
Holy crap!! Finally!!! Thalia is away from Marcus and Anthony!!! Just like the first book, I could NOT put this one down!! Can I please have a James of my very own?? Be still my heart!! After all the suffering that Thalia endured, she deserves this man! This series has definitely captured my heart and sunk it's teeth in deep... I just can't get enough of it!
If you haven't read Security Binds Her, you need to read it first or you will be totally lost. This book picks right up where Security Binds Her left off. Although James is Thalia's new Master she quickly learns that James is NOTHING like Marcus. Unlike Marcus, James cares. He bought Thalia to rescue her from Marcus and his cruel brother, however, that wasn't the only reason he bought her. James too desired Thalia just as much as Marcus did. BUT, even after buying her James gives her a choice. She can spend the next 6 months with him, and then decide if she wants stay with him or leave, OR, she is free to leave right now and he will do his best to help her get her life back together.
“Master, I will never go back to Marcus. I hope his whole world crashes down around him and his sadistic fuck of a brother. I hope he’s never able to take another girl. He said he was going to break me, well, I hope I fucking broke him when I left.”
During her enslavement with Marcus, Thalia discovers that she actually enjoys being a bit of a masochist and decides to stay with James for the next 6 months in hopes of finding a future. They both go into this journey knowing that it won't be easy, but James is determined to prove to Thalia that she can indulge in her newly found desires and still be in control, something she never had with Marcus. What James hadn't anticipated was the amount of psychological damage that Marcus had inflicted upon Thalia during her entrapment.
This books is about the struggles, failures, and triumphs that James and Thalia endure as they try to find out if they have any chance of a life together...
“If this is what you want, you have to be able to balance life as a submissive, and life as yourself. Which means you have to be capable of being yourself.”
July 28, 2017
"In this book we start to leave the darkness behind, but if it was easy to leave darkness behind it wouldn't be something we respect." - Jennifer Bene's Author's Note for Thalia 2
You could kind of tell from the author's note that how this book would be like. Despite the fact that Thalia left that life with Marcus doesn't mean she is doing well. With this book, we see a contrast of Marcus vs James. Side by side, we can see how different they are through her living with James. With James, he wants to stress safe, sane, and consensual to Thalia. She wants Master James, but Master James isn't all that sure this is the lifestyle she truly wants. Despite Thalia wanting this, she still faces the trauma of Marcus. James wants to do whatever he can to help her, but it isn't going to be any easy journey for any of them. We see them and their insecurities. Are they going to be able to face these obstacles together? Or will these struggles get the best of them? Are they truly meant for each other? Can they survive this? Y'all should read this to find out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I absolutely love this book!!!! I wasn't sure if book 2 would be able to live up to book 1. I didn't even know if I could like James because he was kind of a new character. But I'm so so so glad that I read it because it definitely surpassed my expectations. I love James too!!!! Jennifer Bene writes another great book. I am really looking forward to book 3. The story was so well-written. The plot continued to intrigue me. Time definitely flew by while I was reading this book!!! I think there was a good depiction of trauma. I'm definitely glad that it wasn't entirely happy-go-lucky because then it'll erase the journey she went through. This book really gave me a better depiction of book 1. I think before I was looking through the events through rose colored glasses. I didn't really see all those ugly events, now I have better view of what had occurred for Thalia. I definitely love Thalia, she really is a fighter. I can't wait to read more about her journey in book 3!!!
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book.
You could kind of tell from the author's note that how this book would be like. Despite the fact that Thalia left that life with Marcus doesn't mean she is doing well. With this book, we see a contrast of Marcus vs James. Side by side, we can see how different they are through her living with James. With James, he wants to stress safe, sane, and consensual to Thalia. She wants Master James, but Master James isn't all that sure this is the lifestyle she truly wants. Despite Thalia wanting this, she still faces the trauma of Marcus. James wants to do whatever he can to help her, but it isn't going to be any easy journey for any of them. We see them and their insecurities. Are they going to be able to face these obstacles together? Or will these struggles get the best of them? Are they truly meant for each other? Can they survive this? Y'all should read this to find out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I absolutely love this book!!!! I wasn't sure if book 2 would be able to live up to book 1. I didn't even know if I could like James because he was kind of a new character. But I'm so so so glad that I read it because it definitely surpassed my expectations. I love James too!!!! Jennifer Bene writes another great book. I am really looking forward to book 3. The story was so well-written. The plot continued to intrigue me. Time definitely flew by while I was reading this book!!! I think there was a good depiction of trauma. I'm definitely glad that it wasn't entirely happy-go-lucky because then it'll erase the journey she went through. This book really gave me a better depiction of book 1. I think before I was looking through the events through rose colored glasses. I didn't really see all those ugly events, now I have better view of what had occurred for Thalia. I definitely love Thalia, she really is a fighter. I can't wait to read more about her journey in book 3!!!
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book.
April 30, 2019
This is exactly what you need after such a heavy book 1. Once victims of human trafficking are pulled out of their situation, they are far from being safe.
Summary
Thalia has been saved by her life raft, James, and must now learn how to move forward with her new life. James promises her 6 months and if she doesn’t like the lifestyle, she’s free to leave. Thalia needs to relearn how to live a life outside of captivity and has a hard time adjusting. Through her journey, we learn of the trauma of abuse: panic attacks, inability to function in public, constant fear and triggers of said trauma. Will Thalia survive the next 6 months?
Thoughts (spoilers)
I command Bene for not making this a happy thing. Thalia is scarred. She has been conditioned through abuse to be a 24/7 slave. She can’t go out in public without having a panic attack. She is in constant fear of losing James but is she even with James for the right reasons? In my review of book 1 I call James evil for even partaking in the auction. Can Thalia forgive him for that?
Victims often say they likely wanted what happened to them--or at least enjoyed it. Bene talks about the biological reaction as to why a victim might orgasm and respond to the stimulus, but not actually want what happened. Her panic attacks lessen when she’s with the girls in purgatory. She never had friends and there, she is learning how to make friends. Talk to people without fear of being ousted. We watch her relationship with James blossom.
Book two is aptly named: striking a balance of her past and her present. Bene really pushes CONSENT CONSENT CONSENT. This makes all the difference. BDSM relationships can only exist if both parties consent to the lifestyle. While this was forced on Thalia, she is learning if she really wants it, then she too must take control.
Cant wait to start book 3.
Summary
Thalia has been saved by her life raft, James, and must now learn how to move forward with her new life. James promises her 6 months and if she doesn’t like the lifestyle, she’s free to leave. Thalia needs to relearn how to live a life outside of captivity and has a hard time adjusting. Through her journey, we learn of the trauma of abuse: panic attacks, inability to function in public, constant fear and triggers of said trauma. Will Thalia survive the next 6 months?
Thoughts (spoilers)
I command Bene for not making this a happy thing. Thalia is scarred. She has been conditioned through abuse to be a 24/7 slave. She can’t go out in public without having a panic attack. She is in constant fear of losing James but is she even with James for the right reasons? In my review of book 1 I call James evil for even partaking in the auction. Can Thalia forgive him for that?
Victims often say they likely wanted what happened to them--or at least enjoyed it. Bene talks about the biological reaction as to why a victim might orgasm and respond to the stimulus, but not actually want what happened. Her panic attacks lessen when she’s with the girls in purgatory. She never had friends and there, she is learning how to make friends. Talk to people without fear of being ousted. We watch her relationship with James blossom.
Book two is aptly named: striking a balance of her past and her present. Bene really pushes CONSENT CONSENT CONSENT. This makes all the difference. BDSM relationships can only exist if both parties consent to the lifestyle. While this was forced on Thalia, she is learning if she really wants it, then she too must take control.
Cant wait to start book 3.
October 8, 2018
Striking a Balance (Thalia 2) by Jennifer Bene
Book one left us with a new character, namely James. He gave Thalia a choice and she grabbed it with both hands, much to Marcus’s disgust. James shows kindness and patience even while being dominant. Thalia sees James as her saviour, her knight in shining armour. James is not keen to play the role, he wants the feisty girl he watched on camera, the one who fought for herself, the one that slapped Marcus. While he wants her to submit, he still wants her to have her own character and he wants her to make choices. James calls in reinforcements. Kalen role is to help Thalia regain her own identity, not one that was forced upon her. He still wants to show her that her body can submit but she is still in control of her own mind and she can say no at any time. We see an adoring side to James and realise that while he thought he could walk away he can’t, his own feelings for Thalia are too deep-seated. Marcus has tried to make contact and is adamant that he wants Thalia back. Is Marcus going to be a problem or will he finally realise that Thalia does not want him, that she feels she hates him? Is James going to be strong enough to allow Kalen to teach Thalia? This book was very different from the first book. It was not dark and if anything, it shows a caring and considerate dom or two. Overall it was an enjoyable read and yet at times, I found it a bit slow. However, that will not stop me from reading book three.
Reviewed for Hot books and Sassy Girls book blog
Book one left us with a new character, namely James. He gave Thalia a choice and she grabbed it with both hands, much to Marcus’s disgust. James shows kindness and patience even while being dominant. Thalia sees James as her saviour, her knight in shining armour. James is not keen to play the role, he wants the feisty girl he watched on camera, the one who fought for herself, the one that slapped Marcus. While he wants her to submit, he still wants her to have her own character and he wants her to make choices. James calls in reinforcements. Kalen role is to help Thalia regain her own identity, not one that was forced upon her. He still wants to show her that her body can submit but she is still in control of her own mind and she can say no at any time. We see an adoring side to James and realise that while he thought he could walk away he can’t, his own feelings for Thalia are too deep-seated. Marcus has tried to make contact and is adamant that he wants Thalia back. Is Marcus going to be a problem or will he finally realise that Thalia does not want him, that she feels she hates him? Is James going to be strong enough to allow Kalen to teach Thalia? This book was very different from the first book. It was not dark and if anything, it shows a caring and considerate dom or two. Overall it was an enjoyable read and yet at times, I found it a bit slow. However, that will not stop me from reading book three.
Reviewed for Hot books and Sassy Girls book blog
August 3, 2018
Great book!
This helped me see Thalia differently. Book one was the setup, the catalyst for her to change. Her introduction to the D\s lifestyle was extremely violent. It took a week for Marcus to completely change and dominate Thalia to the point that she couldn't function in regular society. Then she gets the opportunity to be with James. He is different and offers Thalia a choice to be sexually submissive. He wants her to be herself again. So James calls for reinforcement by speaking with his best friend Kalen. This is a wonderful character created by Bene. His sensual nature and depth are ever present throughout this book. His introduction to the plot is natural and smooth. Kalens' goal is to ensure that Thalia can regain her true identity and not only be defined by her submissive nature. There must be a balance between the two. She was almost broken by Marcus (who I still believe was completely into Thalia) and these total submissive tendencies must be broken so that she can care for herself and find peace again. Sex is a choice, and that was taken from Thalia. Submission is a choice and she was never given one! So between Kalen, James, Maggie, and the others she will find that choice, voice, and balance that she needs. Definitely reading the next installment.
This helped me see Thalia differently. Book one was the setup, the catalyst for her to change. Her introduction to the D\s lifestyle was extremely violent. It took a week for Marcus to completely change and dominate Thalia to the point that she couldn't function in regular society. Then she gets the opportunity to be with James. He is different and offers Thalia a choice to be sexually submissive. He wants her to be herself again. So James calls for reinforcement by speaking with his best friend Kalen. This is a wonderful character created by Bene. His sensual nature and depth are ever present throughout this book. His introduction to the plot is natural and smooth. Kalens' goal is to ensure that Thalia can regain her true identity and not only be defined by her submissive nature. There must be a balance between the two. She was almost broken by Marcus (who I still believe was completely into Thalia) and these total submissive tendencies must be broken so that she can care for herself and find peace again. Sex is a choice, and that was taken from Thalia. Submission is a choice and she was never given one! So between Kalen, James, Maggie, and the others she will find that choice, voice, and balance that she needs. Definitely reading the next installment.
December 26, 2022
Better than I was expecting...
I read the first book in this series awhile ago, and didn't have much of an interest in yet another story about a Rich Dude Who Never Seems to Work but Only Fuxx and Shops All Day. You know the ones. This kinda sorta started out that way, I'm not gonna lie lol
But for once the introduction of other characters added to the story, broke up the monotony, and genuinely kept things entertaining. The author does a great job balancing it all and keeping the story going (as well as your attention).
My only gripe is a personal one- the female lead went through some things in the first book.
Message received.
There was some child like behavior from her at times (yes I know she was processing her trauma) and it made me roll my eyes a bit. Blushing all the time, needing her hand held all the time, reacting like a prude at some of what she saw at the facility (the Purgatory/Heaven puns were a little heavy-handed as well) and little things like that kind of got under my skin. Otherwise this (yes it ends on a cliffhanger) was a pretty satisfying read and I'm happily moving onto the next installment.
If you read the first book and were on the fence about this one- don't be. You'll be pleasantly surprised by this and enjoy it just as much (if not more).
I read the first book in this series awhile ago, and didn't have much of an interest in yet another story about a Rich Dude Who Never Seems to Work but Only Fuxx and Shops All Day. You know the ones. This kinda sorta started out that way, I'm not gonna lie lol
But for once the introduction of other characters added to the story, broke up the monotony, and genuinely kept things entertaining. The author does a great job balancing it all and keeping the story going (as well as your attention).
My only gripe is a personal one- the female lead went through some things in the first book.
Message received.
There was some child like behavior from her at times (yes I know she was processing her trauma) and it made me roll my eyes a bit. Blushing all the time, needing her hand held all the time, reacting like a prude at some of what she saw at the facility (the Purgatory/Heaven puns were a little heavy-handed as well) and little things like that kind of got under my skin. Otherwise this (yes it ends on a cliffhanger) was a pretty satisfying read and I'm happily moving onto the next installment.
If you read the first book and were on the fence about this one- don't be. You'll be pleasantly surprised by this and enjoy it just as much (if not more).
August 22, 2019
“Acceptance. Isn’t that what everyone wants?”
This books begins right where Security Binds Her finishes. You have to read that book first, and if you haven’t, beware-there may be spoilers ahead! Thalia's treatment at the hands of Marcus and Anthony was harsh & barbaric, and it reinforced her submissive behaviour. But different masters require different things, and some of that learned behaviour is difficult to extinguish. How can Thalia learn to balance her submissive side with her own personality, which is now deeply buried? James and Thalia have lots to sort, and we meet James' friend Kalen, who has much to say about James' behaviour, his lovely wife & sub, Maggie, and Kalen's sister Ailsa, a psychologist. I found myself getting frustrated with the Thalia and James, their stumbling and fumbling to find their “normal”, and virtually ignoring the abuse Thalia had endured. I felt a huge sense of relief when they arrived at Purgatory. The author did a fantastic job of dragging me into the characters' emotions. I am absolutely loving this story, which ends on a cliffhanger, and looking forward to Salvaged by Love.
I received a copy of this book. My honest review is voluntarily provided.
This books begins right where Security Binds Her finishes. You have to read that book first, and if you haven’t, beware-there may be spoilers ahead! Thalia's treatment at the hands of Marcus and Anthony was harsh & barbaric, and it reinforced her submissive behaviour. But different masters require different things, and some of that learned behaviour is difficult to extinguish. How can Thalia learn to balance her submissive side with her own personality, which is now deeply buried? James and Thalia have lots to sort, and we meet James' friend Kalen, who has much to say about James' behaviour, his lovely wife & sub, Maggie, and Kalen's sister Ailsa, a psychologist. I found myself getting frustrated with the Thalia and James, their stumbling and fumbling to find their “normal”, and virtually ignoring the abuse Thalia had endured. I felt a huge sense of relief when they arrived at Purgatory. The author did a fantastic job of dragging me into the characters' emotions. I am absolutely loving this story, which ends on a cliffhanger, and looking forward to Salvaged by Love.
I received a copy of this book. My honest review is voluntarily provided.
August 19, 2019
Striking a balance is a continuation of Thalia's new life, one filled with new experiences with a real, caring Dom. As Thalia struggles with her new position with James, she is trying very hard to be what he wants and needs. It's more confusing as she was trained to obey with violence as he punishment. James is a Dom of a different ilk. James wants Thalia to obey because she truely wants to, not because she fears punishment. After trying to instill confidence and trust with Thalia, he finds he's failed and calls on his experienced Dom-friend Kalen who runs a training school of sorts for submissives and their Doms. At the training place Purgatory, there is a lot to learn along with therapy for her mental well being. The sex is super hot, the training is very different than what she experienced with Marcus and it ends in a Cliffhanger!!! I was very happy with the story until I cam to the unending, now, I must read the next in the series as I curse the talented author that didn't finish the book!
July 19, 2018
Thalia leaves the auction with her new Master James and starts a new life in London. James offers Thalia choices, the one thing she wanted but was denied with her kidnapper Marcus, who desparately wants Thalia back. Thalia is so traumatised by her experience with Marcus that she doesn't want choices any more, she just wants James to tell her what to say so she can't choose incorrectly. James wants a girlfriend, not a full-time sub. James had thought that as Thalia healed physically that she would heal heal mentally and he'd finally get to know the feisty girl she used to be. When Thalia admits she wants to be normal but is struggling, James asks for help from his good friend and fellow Dom Kalen, who runs Purgatory, a sub training school. Will Purgatory be what Thalia needs to find a balance between being a sub and being normal?
Jennifer Bene delivers a dark, sweet and angsty story that will suck you in. I can't wait to read Salvaged by Love, Book 3 of The Thalia Series.
Jennifer Bene delivers a dark, sweet and angsty story that will suck you in. I can't wait to read Salvaged by Love, Book 3 of The Thalia Series.
April 16, 2019
Jennifer Bene creates another brilliant balancing act with this one......dark and light combine to shine in a five* star read!
This is just so amazingly written and has so much 'feels' to it that it's so hard to do it justice. The second of the series is so much more about the journey to light and understanding for Thalia than the dark and fear Marcus created in the first book. You can't help but fall for James as he shows understanding, acceptance and love of Thalia despite his many flaws. Kalen (and Maggie) as well as those at 'Purgatory' are brilliantly thought out additions and once again Jennifer Bene skilfully manages to entangle us in her heartfelt and beautifully written tale of love in its many formats and transformations. I can't wait to see how the final book in the series plays out the story as I'm sure the way this cliff-hanger leaves us, we have quite a few more emotional hurdles to jump before we see Thalia whole and with her HEA.
This is just so amazingly written and has so much 'feels' to it that it's so hard to do it justice. The second of the series is so much more about the journey to light and understanding for Thalia than the dark and fear Marcus created in the first book. You can't help but fall for James as he shows understanding, acceptance and love of Thalia despite his many flaws. Kalen (and Maggie) as well as those at 'Purgatory' are brilliantly thought out additions and once again Jennifer Bene skilfully manages to entangle us in her heartfelt and beautifully written tale of love in its many formats and transformations. I can't wait to see how the final book in the series plays out the story as I'm sure the way this cliff-hanger leaves us, we have quite a few more emotional hurdles to jump before we see Thalia whole and with her HEA.
April 29, 2019
This is the continuation of Thalia's story and her developing relationship with James. Jennifer Bene takes me on another roller coaster of emotions! James wants to protect Thalia! But is he protecting her to the point of hindering her? This is what this story is all about! Thalia and James finding a balance.
My initial confusion with Marcus having redeeming qualities is pretty much voided in the this book when we get his POV once during the book! I am going back to my original assumption of grade A asshole. LOL
I really like that Jennifer has a scene that focuses on Thalia's self preservation! I think since we hadn't seen her pushed to a limit yet that it was important to establish just how strong Thalia actually is! I also really like the scene where Thalia makes a realization and tells off Kalen's sister during her therapy session! I really hope we get to see Thalia's dream become a reality in detail! I read this in one day, I couldn't put it down!
My initial confusion with Marcus having redeeming qualities is pretty much voided in the this book when we get his POV once during the book! I am going back to my original assumption of grade A asshole. LOL
I really like that Jennifer has a scene that focuses on Thalia's self preservation! I think since we hadn't seen her pushed to a limit yet that it was important to establish just how strong Thalia actually is! I also really like the scene where Thalia makes a realization and tells off Kalen's sister during her therapy session! I really hope we get to see Thalia's dream become a reality in detail! I read this in one day, I couldn't put it down!
June 5, 2020
After all that Thalia has undergone in the first book, I just expected this story with James to be an erotically enticing Dominant/submissive love story between two individuals who have found their mate. But, I was in for a surprise. Making a relationship work, sometimes takes more patience, caring and intensity than either had expected.
Thalia had been kidnapped and brutally trained to become a slave, until James bought her at an auction. He believes in safe, sane and consensual play sessions and always makes sure that Thalia remembers her safe word. But Thalia has been traumatized by her training. When James realizes she needs more help to function in a normal world than he is qualified to provide, he takes her to Scotland to work with his friend, who trains subs and his sister, who is a therapist. Will they be able to discover what Thalia needs? Will they be able to help her adjust to the “normal” world? Will Thalia choose to remain with James?
Thalia had been kidnapped and brutally trained to become a slave, until James bought her at an auction. He believes in safe, sane and consensual play sessions and always makes sure that Thalia remembers her safe word. But Thalia has been traumatized by her training. When James realizes she needs more help to function in a normal world than he is qualified to provide, he takes her to Scotland to work with his friend, who trains subs and his sister, who is a therapist. Will they be able to discover what Thalia needs? Will they be able to help her adjust to the “normal” world? Will Thalia choose to remain with James?
July 16, 2017
This is the second book in this series therefore, if you haven't read the previous book, I strongly urge you to do so.
When James bought Thalia at the auction, he gave her hope that things could be different with a different master. James is the light she needs to guide her back to a normal way of life.
Thalia has been through so much - she was forced into a submissive slave lifestyle. She was hurt, abused and beaten and now although, the bruises might have healed, the deep emotional and mental scars remain.
The author captured her conflicted emotions really well. She's traumatised but doesn't want to admit that her ordeal left her broken.
I liked James; he was everything a good Dom should be - caring, attentive, understanding yet patient. James and Thalia had a sweet, affectionate yet tender relationship.
December 18, 2017
This series is just WOW!!! I love these characters and their devotion to each other is truly amazing and beautiful to be able to feel that way for one person it justs makes you feel every single thing. I love how James is so protective and Thalia finds her voice somewhat and is truly trying to overcome her issues and do right by him and for herself and I'm so happy they are working together.
James is so swoon worthy and patient and when these two are together wholly god their hot.I wasn't sure what to think of Kalen it was intense for a bit but he grew on me and now I understand his reasoning and why James asked for help.I loved how the situation was explained between D/s relationships and the ones that abuse the situation by force and now I am off to read book 3 and pray to god this works.
James is so swoon worthy and patient and when these two are together wholly god their hot.I wasn't sure what to think of Kalen it was intense for a bit but he grew on me and now I understand his reasoning and why James asked for help.I loved how the situation was explained between D/s relationships and the ones that abuse the situation by force and now I am off to read book 3 and pray to god this works.
August 23, 2018
Book 1 of this series opened with a big bang, followed by a lot of dark dub/non-con.
Striking A Balance is almost sweeter in a sense. It focuses almost entirely on James and Thalia, their blossoming relationship as Master and submissive, and the problems Thalia has with acclimatizing back to normal. She is fighting a war within herself, and the story shows that incredibly well.
There's an unexpected twist somewhere in the middle (no spoilers) which for me, spun the whole tale around and gave it a gentle shove in a new and exciting direction, opening up several possibilities and introducing a new cast of memorable characters who really add flavour into the story.
The only spoiler I will give is that there is a rather large cliffhanger at the end, but from where I'm standing, it's only made me more anxious to get stuck into the next part of Thalia's journey.
Striking A Balance is almost sweeter in a sense. It focuses almost entirely on James and Thalia, their blossoming relationship as Master and submissive, and the problems Thalia has with acclimatizing back to normal. She is fighting a war within herself, and the story shows that incredibly well.
There's an unexpected twist somewhere in the middle (no spoilers) which for me, spun the whole tale around and gave it a gentle shove in a new and exciting direction, opening up several possibilities and introducing a new cast of memorable characters who really add flavour into the story.
The only spoiler I will give is that there is a rather large cliffhanger at the end, but from where I'm standing, it's only made me more anxious to get stuck into the next part of Thalia's journey.
July 7, 2021
Druga część tej serii jest w trochę innym klimacie, nie jest już tak przerażająca i szokująca jak poprzednia, bo James to nie Marcus, on jedynie próbuje naprawić szkody wyrządzone przez niego. A szkody są ogromne. Okazuje się, że łatwiej jest wytrenować do uległości, niż z pełnoetatowej uległej uczynić taką na "pół etatu". Thalia nie potrafi odnaleźć się w nowym świecie, jest przerażona, stłamszona, boi się jakichkolwiek kontaktów międzyludzkich, jest całkowicie uzależniona od swojego mistrza. A James tego nie chce. Najpierw sam próbuje ją naprawić, a potem korzysta w pomocy przyjaciela Kalena, który prowadzi szkołę dla uległych. Końcówka bardzo dramatyczna, pokazuje, że Marcus za wszelką cenę chce odzyskać swoją niewolnicę, bo wydaje mi się, że ostatnie wydarzenia to jego sprawka, bardzo jestem ciekawa ciągu dalszego. W kategorii BDSM całkiem przyjemna pozycja.
January 30, 2025
11:15 am - 4:30 pm
Thalía se empezó a llevar bien con James ya que daba su espacio y no era sumisa 24/7, salían de compras al cine etc para que si sintiera cómoda con ella misma ya que según ella no se sentía bien porque sentía que todos la observaban y iban a saber los gustos “sucios” que tenía. James la llevó con su grupo de amigos donde las sumisas se “entrena” para que se sientan bien con ellas mismas . Thalía empezó a tener terapia y habalr de las cosas que le había marcus superando por completo lo que sentía por él pero seguía presionada con el que dirán de ella. Termina más o menos porque James se fue por negocios y la dejo ahí al cuidado de sus amigos pero a los días tiene un accidente. (Marcus hizo que siguieran a Thalía y empezó a obsesionarse con ella dijo que ella no se merecía que la trataran bien porque es SU sumisa)
Thalía se empezó a llevar bien con James ya que daba su espacio y no era sumisa 24/7, salían de compras al cine etc para que si sintiera cómoda con ella misma ya que según ella no se sentía bien porque sentía que todos la observaban y iban a saber los gustos “sucios” que tenía. James la llevó con su grupo de amigos donde las sumisas se “entrena” para que se sientan bien con ellas mismas . Thalía empezó a tener terapia y habalr de las cosas que le había marcus superando por completo lo que sentía por él pero seguía presionada con el que dirán de ella. Termina más o menos porque James se fue por negocios y la dejo ahí al cuidado de sus amigos pero a los días tiene un accidente. (Marcus hizo que siguieran a Thalía y empezó a obsesionarse con ella dijo que ella no se merecía que la trataran bien porque es SU sumisa)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2017
Oh boy, is it hot in here because…wow. I so loved the continuation of Thalia and James’ story. The gradual transition from what was an incredibly dark story in “Security Binds Her” to “Striking a Balance”, so much happens as Thalia fights to figure out who she is and where she belongs. *Spoiler alert: She belongs with James. I LOVED Purgatory (Okay, as an ex-catholic that sounds weird). I loved reading about the other doms and subs at the school. It was an amazing way to draw out the turmoil going on inside Thalia’s head as she fights with her inner demons. So, good.
And this is the part where I indicate to the powers at Amazon that I received this story as a gift from the author. Thank you.
And this is the part where I indicate to the powers at Amazon that I received this story as a gift from the author. Thank you.
December 14, 2017
This book is the second in Thalia story. After i was stuned by how raw the first book was, i finally can take a breath in this second book. In this second book, i'm glad there's a word rape for what Marcus did to Thalia. I love how in this book, the author give you more about the differences between slave and submissive. Between violance and dominant. Between rape and D/s relationship. If Fifthy Shades trilogy open my eyes about D/s, this book give me more insight how their relationship should be.
I love how James as a Dom can be in his weak moment and admit he need help with Thalia.
I love how the author keep stressing that being a sub has its power and not a sit dog like most miss understood this kind of relationship.
And now i need book three
I love how James as a Dom can be in his weak moment and admit he need help with Thalia.
I love how the author keep stressing that being a sub has its power and not a sit dog like most miss understood this kind of relationship.
And now i need book three
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