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Thalia #3
Salvaged by Love
Love conquers all, or so they say, but is love enough to overcome James and Thalia’s history together? Is it enough to carry them through the heavy decision about whether they should stay with each other? And is it enough to take on the ‘normal’ relationship steps of meeting friends and family in James’ privileged world?
As Thalia and James work to build a life together, a real life, there are other challenges brewing on the horizon, and Thalia’s past isn’t done with her yet.
In this rollercoaster conclusion to the Thalia series she is taken to the loveliest of highs and the darkest of lows as she fights to decide who she is, and who she wants.
**WARNING: This book contains BDSM, strong language, and scenes of violence and dubious consent. Intended for mature audiences.
As Thalia and James work to build a life together, a real life, there are other challenges brewing on the horizon, and Thalia’s past isn’t done with her yet.
In this rollercoaster conclusion to the Thalia series she is taken to the loveliest of highs and the darkest of lows as she fights to decide who she is, and who she wants.
**WARNING: This book contains BDSM, strong language, and scenes of violence and dubious consent. Intended for mature audiences.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2015
About the author
Jennifer Bene
63 books1,951 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 114 reviews
January 1, 2018
This book was Dark with a capital D! Do not read this if you are sensitive because this one will push you to the edge of those boundaries and into the abyss.
Jennifer Bene swallowed me whole, twisted me up and spat me back out. I was an absolute mess after this story. The overhanging threat throughout had me on the edge of my seat and my poor nerves frazzled to bits.
After the last books ending we are left in a state of uncertainty and panic. The fear of the unknown and what will happen next and then being lured
into a false sense of security because once I turned those pages I was hooked, I could not put this down, I had to see it through.
I felt so hard for Thalia, in spite of everything she always has this core of strength and resilience and the pure will to survive is admirable. Marcus has lost all grip and completely slipped into the realms of insanity, I truly feared for Thalia
Ill be completely honest, this book did hit one of my triggers but it wasnt to the point I couldn't read on. This was nothing more or less than a thrilling dark romance that will be added to the shelf of fuckery that I love.
PS. I LOVE the quote at the end of the book, it was very fitting.
Jennifer Bene swallowed me whole, twisted me up and spat me back out. I was an absolute mess after this story. The overhanging threat throughout had me on the edge of my seat and my poor nerves frazzled to bits.
After the last books ending we are left in a state of uncertainty and panic. The fear of the unknown and what will happen next and then being lured
into a false sense of security because once I turned those pages I was hooked, I could not put this down, I had to see it through.
I felt so hard for Thalia, in spite of everything she always has this core of strength and resilience and the pure will to survive is admirable. Marcus has lost all grip and completely slipped into the realms of insanity, I truly feared for Thalia
Ill be completely honest, this book did hit one of my triggers but it wasnt to the point I couldn't read on. This was nothing more or less than a thrilling dark romance that will be added to the shelf of fuckery that I love.
PS. I LOVE the quote at the end of the book, it was very fitting.
July 26, 2016
This conclusion to Thalia's story, has the same problems earlier books have - sex is actually boring. Bene suffers from the belief that if there is more sex in the book, it is more erotic. In my opinion it's like anything there is too much of - it loses it's uniqueness. It is no longer special but repetitive. The only reason I gave it three stars, was the first part of the story, which illuminates the victimization of women in the sex trade. I might be in a minority, but geez. Thalia's story is actually one worth telling - about the sex trade and it's victims. That would have been a better focus - how evil this is.
July 26, 2017
Least favorite
I love Jennifer Bene's books and I really enjoyed the series so far. However this one had me rolling my eyes and skimming. As many other readers already said, there was an awful lot of sex. Don't get me wrong I love my dirty books, but this had so much it wasn't hot. I liked the Marcus part better (shut up, its fiction.)
I'll finish the series but I hope to hell that the last book isn't overrun by bottle green eyes and bucking hips. *groan*
I love Jennifer Bene's books and I really enjoyed the series so far. However this one had me rolling my eyes and skimming. As many other readers already said, there was an awful lot of sex. Don't get me wrong I love my dirty books, but this had so much it wasn't hot. I liked the Marcus part better (shut up, its fiction.)
I'll finish the series but I hope to hell that the last book isn't overrun by bottle green eyes and bucking hips. *groan*
June 26, 2017
“You aren’t a bad memory for me, you’re my favorite memory.”
Thalia and James... one of my FAVORITE couples!! In the Final book of the Thalia trilogy we get to learn what the future might hold for James and Thalia.... FINALLY! LOL This book was amazing!! It combined the elements of books 1 and 2 to create a fast paced, dangerous and thrilling conclusion to one of my favorite series!
“Say that you’re mine, or fight me again and see what happens.”
The thing I loved about this book was how Jennifer was able to mesh the feelings of fear, despair, hope, and love so fluently together to create such an emotional story. Every feeling the characters experienced, I felt like I was right there with them. This whole series is brilliant!!
If you haven't read Books 1 and 2, you need to as you will be totally lost if you don't. Readers Note: The author has posted a warning for a reason.
“I actually thought I might have to beg, so thank you for saving my pride. Because I would have.”
Thalia and James... one of my FAVORITE couples!! In the Final book of the Thalia trilogy we get to learn what the future might hold for James and Thalia.... FINALLY! LOL This book was amazing!! It combined the elements of books 1 and 2 to create a fast paced, dangerous and thrilling conclusion to one of my favorite series!
“Say that you’re mine, or fight me again and see what happens.”
The thing I loved about this book was how Jennifer was able to mesh the feelings of fear, despair, hope, and love so fluently together to create such an emotional story. Every feeling the characters experienced, I felt like I was right there with them. This whole series is brilliant!!
If you haven't read Books 1 and 2, you need to as you will be totally lost if you don't. Readers Note: The author has posted a warning for a reason.
“I actually thought I might have to beg, so thank you for saving my pride. Because I would have.”
August 20, 2019
Bent but not broken. This series is gut-wrenching in so many ways - Thalia’s character is stronger than she knows and yet cracked to the point where broken is one scene away. James is the super glue that fills those cracks, and yet he’s flawed in his own way as well. He needs Thalia to survive, and she needs him to keep from being shattered...it’s a balancing act where the reader doesn’t know how it will end. Another great Jennifer Bene read that will have you clutching your heart and telling yourself to keep breathing.
July 18, 2017
SPOILER ALERT! THIS REVIEW GIVES AWAY PORTIONS OF THE PLOT OF THE PREVIOUS BOOKS IN THIS SERIES. IF YOU HAVEN'T YET READ EITHER BOOK #1 (SECURITY BINDS HER) OR BOOK #2 (STRIKING A BALANCE) IN THIS SERIES, PLEASE DO NOT READ THIS REVIEW AS THERE ARE SPOILERS INCLUDED!
Salvaged by Love is the third book in the Thalia series by Jennifer Bene. At the end of the second book, Thalia and James are into their fourth month together. Thalia has recovered enough of herself to be a true submissive to James, but she still can't overcome the loss of self suffered at the hands of the Williams brothers. She still has nightmares of Marcus, and James is desperate to help her. To that end, he takes her to his closest friend, Kalen, and his submissive training facility, Purgatory. It's a difficult transition for Thalia. She's been so dependent on James. Now she has no choice but to interact with others while learning the true meaning of submission in a real BDSM relationship. Just as she's begun to form friendships with the others at Purgatory, James has to return to London. Five short days, but Thalia feels lost without him. Just as she's gotten to sleep the night before James' expected return, Kalen rushes in to wake her. James has been in a car accident. No one knows his condition. Thalia is panicked. All she can imagine is the worst. She can't live without James, and she's paralyzed with fear.
As the third book opens, Thalia and Kalen arrive at the small local hospital where James has been taken. Thalia is nearly catatonic. As her eyes scan the treatment area, her mind full of darkness and despair, she sees James across the room. She screams his name, runs to him and throws herself into his arms. He was in such a hurry to get back to Thalia that he fell asleep at the wheel and crashed his car. Luckily, he only has minor injuries. But after her initial relief at seeing him, Thalia lets loose a volley of curses and threats like she's never unleashed on James before. As she and James both realize that this is the first time she's ever called him by his name, let alone had the courage to take him to task for anything, especially in front of a room full of total strangers, they both realize this is a huge breakthrough for her. She's not "cured" by any means. But she's on her way back to the Thalia she once was.
As they return to London, Thalia continues to improve. She's kept in touch with the other submissives she met at Purgatory, Kalen, his wife, Maggie, and Ailsa, her therapist. She's slowly returning to her former self and rebuilding her life. She starts taking yoga classes again. Then James surprises her with a gift beyond anything she could have expected. But immediately after the gift, comes another surprise, one she's not happy about. James wants her to meet his younger sister, Katherine, who lives in America. What if Katherine hates her? She's still not sure she belongs in James' life. And to meet James' sister? But the plans are made, and despite a rocky start, Katherine and Thalia soon become friends. Katherine is the complete opposite of Thalia, but Thalia soon has her participating in yoga and even going on morning runs with her...in the middle of February no less! Things seem perfect.
But, just as Thalia and Katherine are returning from their run one morning after a significant snowfall, a lone SUV pulls up on the street across from them. An unknown man gets out, asking for directions. As he approaches the women, Thalia thinks she sees movement inside the SUV but the blinding glare of the sun on the snow makes her doubt her eyes. The unknown man tasers her, and soon she hears a voice she never wanted to hear again, Marcus Williams. She's drugged, bound, and kidnapped once more. Her nightmare has started all over again. Only this time, it's not just her. Katherine was with her. If anything happens to Katherine, James will never forgive her. Marcus is obsessed with Thalia. That much is very clear. Thalia's determined not to let Marcus break her again. But he has Katherine too. What can she do? There's no way out. He's drugged her over and over. He's made it clear he will never give her up. As Thalia starts to despair, she realizes she has to fight because she loves James. But what can she do? Will she ever make it out? How can she? And what about Katherine? Even if she can escape, she can't leave Katherine behind.
Once again, Jennifer Bene proves herself to be a master storyteller. While parts of this book are very dark and nonconsensual, there's also hope, the possibility of love, and Thalia's strength in the face of inescapable torture and torment. The story is just as riveting as the first two books in this series. Even though some of the sections are dark and nonconsensual, the book itself is again full of great beauty and eroticism. Despite the hardships and love between James and Thalia, followed by the brutal kidnapping, and resultant cruelty of Marcus, the main theme of this book is still hope, always hope. The horror and brutality of Marcus' treatment of Thalia is overshadowed by her ultimate belief in herself and her refusal to give in to the torture inflicted on her. As with the first two books, this one also ends in a cliffhanger of sorts. Again, you'll definitely want to read the first two books, and then the final book in the series as well. Fortunately, all four books are available on Amazon so you don't have to wait to read them.
I would be remiss if I didn't make a final comment. This is an ADULT book. It contains dark, explicit, and sometimes nonconsensual sexual and BDSM scenes with explicit language. If you don't enjoy dark erotic romance, PLEASE CAREFULLY consider your purchase before starting this series. PLEASE DON'T BUY ANY BOOK IN A GENRE YOU KNOW YOU WON'T ENJOY AND LEAVE A NEGATIVE REVIEW. IT'S NOT FAIR TO THE AUTHOR! She works hard to provide a quality work product, and if you know before you buy the book that you'll object to the subject matter, you're doing yourself and the author an extreme disservice. But if you do enjoy unconventional BDSM erotic romances, Ms. Bene's entire Thalia series is definitely one I would recommend.
Thanks for reading my review and happy reading!
Salvaged by Love is the third book in the Thalia series by Jennifer Bene. At the end of the second book, Thalia and James are into their fourth month together. Thalia has recovered enough of herself to be a true submissive to James, but she still can't overcome the loss of self suffered at the hands of the Williams brothers. She still has nightmares of Marcus, and James is desperate to help her. To that end, he takes her to his closest friend, Kalen, and his submissive training facility, Purgatory. It's a difficult transition for Thalia. She's been so dependent on James. Now she has no choice but to interact with others while learning the true meaning of submission in a real BDSM relationship. Just as she's begun to form friendships with the others at Purgatory, James has to return to London. Five short days, but Thalia feels lost without him. Just as she's gotten to sleep the night before James' expected return, Kalen rushes in to wake her. James has been in a car accident. No one knows his condition. Thalia is panicked. All she can imagine is the worst. She can't live without James, and she's paralyzed with fear.
As the third book opens, Thalia and Kalen arrive at the small local hospital where James has been taken. Thalia is nearly catatonic. As her eyes scan the treatment area, her mind full of darkness and despair, she sees James across the room. She screams his name, runs to him and throws herself into his arms. He was in such a hurry to get back to Thalia that he fell asleep at the wheel and crashed his car. Luckily, he only has minor injuries. But after her initial relief at seeing him, Thalia lets loose a volley of curses and threats like she's never unleashed on James before. As she and James both realize that this is the first time she's ever called him by his name, let alone had the courage to take him to task for anything, especially in front of a room full of total strangers, they both realize this is a huge breakthrough for her. She's not "cured" by any means. But she's on her way back to the Thalia she once was.
As they return to London, Thalia continues to improve. She's kept in touch with the other submissives she met at Purgatory, Kalen, his wife, Maggie, and Ailsa, her therapist. She's slowly returning to her former self and rebuilding her life. She starts taking yoga classes again. Then James surprises her with a gift beyond anything she could have expected. But immediately after the gift, comes another surprise, one she's not happy about. James wants her to meet his younger sister, Katherine, who lives in America. What if Katherine hates her? She's still not sure she belongs in James' life. And to meet James' sister? But the plans are made, and despite a rocky start, Katherine and Thalia soon become friends. Katherine is the complete opposite of Thalia, but Thalia soon has her participating in yoga and even going on morning runs with her...in the middle of February no less! Things seem perfect.
But, just as Thalia and Katherine are returning from their run one morning after a significant snowfall, a lone SUV pulls up on the street across from them. An unknown man gets out, asking for directions. As he approaches the women, Thalia thinks she sees movement inside the SUV but the blinding glare of the sun on the snow makes her doubt her eyes. The unknown man tasers her, and soon she hears a voice she never wanted to hear again, Marcus Williams. She's drugged, bound, and kidnapped once more. Her nightmare has started all over again. Only this time, it's not just her. Katherine was with her. If anything happens to Katherine, James will never forgive her. Marcus is obsessed with Thalia. That much is very clear. Thalia's determined not to let Marcus break her again. But he has Katherine too. What can she do? There's no way out. He's drugged her over and over. He's made it clear he will never give her up. As Thalia starts to despair, she realizes she has to fight because she loves James. But what can she do? Will she ever make it out? How can she? And what about Katherine? Even if she can escape, she can't leave Katherine behind.
Once again, Jennifer Bene proves herself to be a master storyteller. While parts of this book are very dark and nonconsensual, there's also hope, the possibility of love, and Thalia's strength in the face of inescapable torture and torment. The story is just as riveting as the first two books in this series. Even though some of the sections are dark and nonconsensual, the book itself is again full of great beauty and eroticism. Despite the hardships and love between James and Thalia, followed by the brutal kidnapping, and resultant cruelty of Marcus, the main theme of this book is still hope, always hope. The horror and brutality of Marcus' treatment of Thalia is overshadowed by her ultimate belief in herself and her refusal to give in to the torture inflicted on her. As with the first two books, this one also ends in a cliffhanger of sorts. Again, you'll definitely want to read the first two books, and then the final book in the series as well. Fortunately, all four books are available on Amazon so you don't have to wait to read them.
I would be remiss if I didn't make a final comment. This is an ADULT book. It contains dark, explicit, and sometimes nonconsensual sexual and BDSM scenes with explicit language. If you don't enjoy dark erotic romance, PLEASE CAREFULLY consider your purchase before starting this series. PLEASE DON'T BUY ANY BOOK IN A GENRE YOU KNOW YOU WON'T ENJOY AND LEAVE A NEGATIVE REVIEW. IT'S NOT FAIR TO THE AUTHOR! She works hard to provide a quality work product, and if you know before you buy the book that you'll object to the subject matter, you're doing yourself and the author an extreme disservice. But if you do enjoy unconventional BDSM erotic romances, Ms. Bene's entire Thalia series is definitely one I would recommend.
Thanks for reading my review and happy reading!
August 7, 2018
3.5 STARS
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December 14, 2018Again still not gonna rate this... I would give it 1 star because I hated what went down as the conclusion to this series, but if you like dark romance it's probably not that big of a deal to you and wouldn't affect your rating. I don't feel fair giving a rating because this book got too dark for me, but I knew what I was getting into when I started this series I just thought we were past it but NO this got soooooo dark. OMFG. UGH. I can't handle this shit, honestly. I thought I was gonna find a dark romance series I could get through without major problems, but the events of this book while I knew 100% what was coming I hoped it would be mild... but this is a dark fucking romance of course it was fucking dark and omg it was so much darker (imo) than book 1.
Bascially this book was just really hard to read. I was so glad to be done with it. I couldn't even enjoy the 'after'/end of the book and it's been really upsetting emotionally to me all day. I feel like unfortunately these negative emotions are gonna stick around with me for a while and reading is my escape from those kinds of feelings so I tend to not read things that are so upsetting to me like this. Guess I just can't hang with the dark romances T.T
Bascially this book was just really hard to read. I was so glad to be done with it. I couldn't even enjoy the 'after'/end of the book and it's been really upsetting emotionally to me all day. I feel like unfortunately these negative emotions are gonna stick around with me for a while and reading is my escape from those kinds of feelings so I tend to not read things that are so upsetting to me like this. Guess I just can't hang with the dark romances T.T
March 15, 2017
This is the heartbreaking conclusion to a series about finding inner strength through unimaginable trauma.
At the start of this book things seemed to be going very well between James and Thalia, maybe too well. After returning home from Purgatory, Thalia began moving forward and working through her submissive tendencies while James starting integrating her into his everyday life. Things couldn't have been going better for this unconventional couple as they took a trip to New York to visit with James' sister. This is when Fate decided to step in and destroy everything that they had built.
Marcus never gave up looking for Thalia. He couldn't accept that James bought her at auction and swept her out of his life. She consumed his every thought and waking moment and when he found out she was back in the States he knew this was his chance. He would prove to her that she belonged with him, even if it meant breaking her all over again. Thalia has grown so much since the last time Marcus held her captive but will it be enough to withstand his methods this time around?
This book is not for the faint of heart but if you've made it this far in the series than you deserve the closure that comes with the end of this story.
At the start of this book things seemed to be going very well between James and Thalia, maybe too well. After returning home from Purgatory, Thalia began moving forward and working through her submissive tendencies while James starting integrating her into his everyday life. Things couldn't have been going better for this unconventional couple as they took a trip to New York to visit with James' sister. This is when Fate decided to step in and destroy everything that they had built.
Marcus never gave up looking for Thalia. He couldn't accept that James bought her at auction and swept her out of his life. She consumed his every thought and waking moment and when he found out she was back in the States he knew this was his chance. He would prove to her that she belonged with him, even if it meant breaking her all over again. Thalia has grown so much since the last time Marcus held her captive but will it be enough to withstand his methods this time around?
This book is not for the faint of heart but if you've made it this far in the series than you deserve the closure that comes with the end of this story.
August 10, 2019
James has to return to London, leaving Thalia at Purgatory. She has come such a long way in finding herself and coming to terms with her abduction. Thalia struggles with the six month agreement as it nears. Will James want Thalia or will he ask her to leave. When she wakes up from a nightmare, she realises it’s actually reality and wishes she could wake up. When she leaves Purgatory she tries to get on with her life and immerse herself with a career and friends. Just as things are coming together for her the unthinkable happens. How will Thalia overcome the darkness that surrounds her once again?
August 25, 2019
Exciting and intense!
July 8, 2022
Wow, this was a difficult book to read, so very dark and brutal. Dark before the light.
February 15, 2024
Thalia’s life continues with learning to express herself, go out and learn to live her own life. Of course James helps in any way he can, is it enough?
At some point I was waiting for something to break, her, him or……yep! It got a tad heavy there 🔪
At some point I was waiting for something to break, her, him or……yep! It got a tad heavy there 🔪
September 14, 2024
No lo recomiendo.
July 21, 2018
I know that technically this isn't the last book but what an amazing conclusion to Thalia and James' story
This is part of a series of books and you need to read both Security Binds Her (which is very dark) and Striking a Balance (which isn't dark) before reading this. Salvaged by Love is a both a wonderful tying up of loose ends and also a fantastic blend of darkness, heat and a D/s relationship. The book held my attention from start to finish, even the parts that were difficult to read. However if you're contemplating this you will have read SBH and therefore know how dark a tale this author can spin.
The six month deadline is looming for James and Thalia and tough decisions need to be made. Added to that is a threat from Thalia's past, an evil that refuses to let her be free.
The first part of the story focuses on James and Thalia building strength into their relationship and really establishing themselves as the couple they want to be. This couple have intense chemistry that leads to some incredibly steamy situations and this book is very definitely NSFW in all the best possible ways.
However there is someone else who wants Thalia, regardless of what she herself wants. When that shoe drops the story takes a very dark turn. Be prepared for some very tough scenes and a battle for survival. My word Ms Bene does not pull her punches and Thalia shows just how strong she is when life seems determined to break her apart.
The writing is quite simply astounding. I was listening to the pounding music in those clubs, I felt the lash of the flogger in the playroom, I heard the cane whistling through the air and I felt Thalia's despair and desolation in that concrete prison. The actions, thoughts and emotions, in the various scenes and situations, all felt so real and genuine.
I absolutely loved this book.
This is part of a series of books and you need to read both Security Binds Her (which is very dark) and Striking a Balance (which isn't dark) before reading this. Salvaged by Love is a both a wonderful tying up of loose ends and also a fantastic blend of darkness, heat and a D/s relationship. The book held my attention from start to finish, even the parts that were difficult to read. However if you're contemplating this you will have read SBH and therefore know how dark a tale this author can spin.
The six month deadline is looming for James and Thalia and tough decisions need to be made. Added to that is a threat from Thalia's past, an evil that refuses to let her be free.
The first part of the story focuses on James and Thalia building strength into their relationship and really establishing themselves as the couple they want to be. This couple have intense chemistry that leads to some incredibly steamy situations and this book is very definitely NSFW in all the best possible ways.
However there is someone else who wants Thalia, regardless of what she herself wants. When that shoe drops the story takes a very dark turn. Be prepared for some very tough scenes and a battle for survival. My word Ms Bene does not pull her punches and Thalia shows just how strong she is when life seems determined to break her apart.
The writing is quite simply astounding. I was listening to the pounding music in those clubs, I felt the lash of the flogger in the playroom, I heard the cane whistling through the air and I felt Thalia's despair and desolation in that concrete prison. The actions, thoughts and emotions, in the various scenes and situations, all felt so real and genuine.
I absolutely loved this book.
January 30, 2025
4:40 pm - 5:18
Thalía ya se sentía mejor consigo misma, James la llevo a conocer muchos lugares para que pudiera comunicarse con el mundo hasta le compro un estudio de yoga. Fueron a visitarse a la hermana de James pero la secuestra Marcus, hace que le pida de nuevo llamarlo amo, que se corra en sus dedos, violarla pero ella no se rinde ni James para encontrarla. Thalía decide suicidsrse pero no lo logra porque Marcus le para la herida así que le colaba un objeto filoso en el corazón y muere. Termina bien ya que James la vuelve a apoyar y se casan, comprar una casa en todos estados para que no le recuerde a Marcus
Thalía ya se sentía mejor consigo misma, James la llevo a conocer muchos lugares para que pudiera comunicarse con el mundo hasta le compro un estudio de yoga. Fueron a visitarse a la hermana de James pero la secuestra Marcus, hace que le pida de nuevo llamarlo amo, que se corra en sus dedos, violarla pero ella no se rinde ni James para encontrarla. Thalía decide suicidsrse pero no lo logra porque Marcus le para la herida así que le colaba un objeto filoso en el corazón y muere. Termina bien ya que James la vuelve a apoyar y se casan, comprar una casa en todos estados para que no le recuerde a Marcus
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2017
I admit I had an idea as to what was going to happen in this read and was on the edge of my seat the entire time. This truly is a roller coaster read. Thalia is such a strong character and just a beautiful person. This story is fast paced and definitely dark and I do recommend reading the series in order. Some parts may have been hard to read but as it is a part of Thalia’s story and makes her a stronger person you won’t be disappointed. I loved it!
August 12, 2017
I was a big fan of this entire series. It sucked me in on page one and didn't let me go until the conclusion. to say I power read them is no exaggeration, three books in three days. Definitely a good conclusion to the series. This book took a decidedly darker turn again. but the end was very satisfying.
June 16, 2019
Going into the first book completely blind, I kind of thought Marcus was our male protagonist. And I don't feel bad because looking through some of other reviews I wasn't the only one who got that wrong.
One of the things I like about Thalia in the first book was how quickly she was able to adapt to survive after initially fighting back. That adaptability really served her well here.
One of the things I like about Thalia in the first book was how quickly she was able to adapt to survive after initially fighting back. That adaptability really served her well here.
January 22, 2018
I stated book 3 mid heart attack after book 2’s climactic ending. To be honest, I’m not even sure I was actually “reading” the first few chapters. I was flying through them trying to figure out what the fuck was happening.
One hand was flipping pages, the other was on my inhaler.
ITS SO RUDE TO PLAY WITH MY EMOTIONS LIKE THIS JENNIFER.
All I want to do is love you, and stalk you. And all you want to do is toy with my emotions.
Damn it, I love it.
So, Thalia and James must decide whether their love can withstand everything Thalia has been through and James’ privileged world.
Per Newton’s third law, we know that every action has an equal and opposite reaction.
Thalia and James fight so hard for their love. But Thalia’s demons aren’t done with her.
The only way out of the darkness, is through. Thalia is about to face her demons head on. Can she conquer them or will she forever be a slave?
It’s been truly an honor to watch Thalia and James’ story.
It’s also been very humbling.
To watch these characters love and grow has been a very emotional ride for me. I loved, I screamed, I cried, and I felt everything wholeheartedly.
Thank you, Jennifer Bene for letting me along for this ride.
One hand was flipping pages, the other was on my inhaler.
ITS SO RUDE TO PLAY WITH MY EMOTIONS LIKE THIS JENNIFER.
All I want to do is love you, and stalk you. And all you want to do is toy with my emotions.
Damn it, I love it.
So, Thalia and James must decide whether their love can withstand everything Thalia has been through and James’ privileged world.
Per Newton’s third law, we know that every action has an equal and opposite reaction.
Thalia and James fight so hard for their love. But Thalia’s demons aren’t done with her.
The only way out of the darkness, is through. Thalia is about to face her demons head on. Can she conquer them or will she forever be a slave?
It’s been truly an honor to watch Thalia and James’ story.
It’s also been very humbling.
To watch these characters love and grow has been a very emotional ride for me. I loved, I screamed, I cried, and I felt everything wholeheartedly.
Thank you, Jennifer Bene for letting me along for this ride.
March 13, 2018
This series is one of the most emotionally engaging ones I have read. I can't even begin to describe the roller coaster I feel like I'm stepping off of. Fear, anger, despair, sorrow, hope, confusion, trust, passion, and love, are just the tip of the iceberg. There are somethings, ok, a lot of things, in this one that could be triggers for people, but if you don't have a problem with non-consent, rape, abuse, and all those other things that make a dark romance dark, then I can't recommend any series that is better than this one.
The end of book two left me with my heart in my throat. I sat and stared at the last page without really seeing in because of the emotions buffeting inside me. Luckily, this one picks up right where the last one ended. The emotions also pick up right where the last one ended. I was thrust back into the action immediately, and kept on the edge of my seat until I had finished the last page. The story line continues to be fantastic, and the characters are so real, but it is the grip on my emotions that kept me from being able to think about anything other than this story.
The end of book two left me with my heart in my throat. I sat and stared at the last page without really seeing in because of the emotions buffeting inside me. Luckily, this one picks up right where the last one ended. The emotions also pick up right where the last one ended. I was thrust back into the action immediately, and kept on the edge of my seat until I had finished the last page. The story line continues to be fantastic, and the characters are so real, but it is the grip on my emotions that kept me from being able to think about anything other than this story.
July 20, 2018
Thalia has been able to find a balance between being a sub and being normal and is happy that James loves her. Thalia envisions a beautiful future with James, a wedding, a little boy or a little girl ... life couldn't be better. Marcus wants Thalia back and wants her to look at him with longing, the way she does with James. Marcus could make Thalia want him, need him, crave him. Marcus just hadn't had enough time, and tells himself "You'll be mine again." Just as Thalia's life is falling into place, Marcus finds her. When Thalia rejects Marcus, he tells her she has 2 options, she can be obedient or he'll start her training over and break her. James is frantic with worry after Thalia is abducted and hires the best team of mercenaries money can buy to get Thalia back, but they be able to rescue her before Marcus breaks her?
Jennifer Bene delivers a dark, action-packed, and sweet story full of twists and turns that will have you reading the book in one go. I can't wait to read Tying the Knot, Book 4 of The Thalia Series.
Jennifer Bene delivers a dark, action-packed, and sweet story full of twists and turns that will have you reading the book in one go. I can't wait to read Tying the Knot, Book 4 of The Thalia Series.
April 17, 2019
Fight, flight and passion....a beautifully written conclusion.
I knew this would be a wild, emotionally fraught ride of a conclusion and Jennifer Bene has once again shown us just how talented a writer she is in the conclusion of Thalia and James' story. Wow! This one was intense, dark at times but love, light and passion continues to play throughout this roller coaster that the hope ignited in book 2 continues to smoulder until it FINALLY bursts into flame and a love of epic proportions takes flight. For me, Thalia is the Phoenix that flighs from the ash of what once was and Ms Bene has promised us her HEA in a beautifully written final chapter.
I love Jennifer Bene's work if for nothing more than the heart, soul and passion that is delivered with every character and word throughout her tales. I'm a huge fan of this series and although I know Beth's story is to follow, I hope we see far more of some of the other AMAZING characters Jennifer has made us fall in love with too!
This is another must read for me!
I knew this would be a wild, emotionally fraught ride of a conclusion and Jennifer Bene has once again shown us just how talented a writer she is in the conclusion of Thalia and James' story. Wow! This one was intense, dark at times but love, light and passion continues to play throughout this roller coaster that the hope ignited in book 2 continues to smoulder until it FINALLY bursts into flame and a love of epic proportions takes flight. For me, Thalia is the Phoenix that flighs from the ash of what once was and Ms Bene has promised us her HEA in a beautifully written final chapter.
I love Jennifer Bene's work if for nothing more than the heart, soul and passion that is delivered with every character and word throughout her tales. I'm a huge fan of this series and although I know Beth's story is to follow, I hope we see far more of some of the other AMAZING characters Jennifer has made us fall in love with too!
This is another must read for me!
August 7, 2020
This was an amazing series. Logically, I should despise some one who would buy another human being, but everything about James compels the reader to love him and hope he and Thalia have a happy ending. Thalia is an incredibly strong woman and survives kidnappings and brutality without losing her ability to trust and love, and as despicable as Marcus and Anthony (especially Anthony who has no redeeming qualities and Marcus doesn't ' have many) are, without their heinous actions Thalia would not have met James so I guess they do have a very limited purpose, but no tears were shed with their departure. This series has many dark elements but it also has moments of humour and tenderness. The time at Purgatory is insightful and ocassionally humorous and the short stories the author includes in the series are equally wonderful. However, be warned there are many potential triggers in these books, but if you are not affected, they are a compelling read I would recommend to anyone who likes dark romance
August 25, 2019
This is the third book in the Thalia series, and they must be read in order. If you haven’t read the first two books, there are possible spoilers ahead. This book starts right where Striking a Balance left on, on a cliffhanger. Thalia and James reach Decision Day, and I adored the scary sweetness between them. Their relationship goes from strength-to-strength, Thalia blossoms, and we see her as never before. She finds balance, and acceptance in who she is. The plot-even though you are aware there is a threat out there, you can’t prepare for what happens, and what is revealed. I am so glad the author revealed Thalia to us so completely-I was utterly invested in her, and Thalia and James as a couple. I loved this book, the characters, the plot-it is dark perfection.
I received a copy of this book. My honest review is voluntarily provided.
I received a copy of this book. My honest review is voluntarily provided.
December 27, 2022
3.5 neatly tied up in a bow stars
I was in the mood for a good kidnapp story and this delivered.
It took forever to get there, but once it did, the story really took off.
I definitely don't feel the need to continue, because everything was wrapped up as tidy as can be at the end. I appreciated the female lead maintaining a backbone throughout, with less blushing and childlike behaviour/tendencies. The male lead should've had security throughout the series considering his wealth and higher profile- but it didn't bother me as much because he actually went to work daily (on a semi-regular basis anyway) and remained realistically supportive throughout their ordeal.
I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who doesn't have "triggers" and actually enjoys being creeped out (and a little turned on) by their fiction.
I was in the mood for a good kidnapp story and this delivered.
It took forever to get there, but once it did, the story really took off.
I definitely don't feel the need to continue, because everything was wrapped up as tidy as can be at the end. I appreciated the female lead maintaining a backbone throughout, with less blushing and childlike behaviour/tendencies. The male lead should've had security throughout the series considering his wealth and higher profile- but it didn't bother me as much because he actually went to work daily (on a semi-regular basis anyway) and remained realistically supportive throughout their ordeal.
I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who doesn't have "triggers" and actually enjoys being creeped out (and a little turned on) by their fiction.
July 21, 2018
I've been sitting on this story, I know I needed to read it, already read Tying The Knot but I just couldn't make myself. I knew it was going to make me feel all the emotions and just needed to prepare myself for it! So what do I do?? Decide that 3 am is the perfect time to dive in, and yep I was swallowed by this story, it had me from page one, and now I'm laying here, just done...….mega book hangover. Thalia and James, it was impossible for me to not love them and this twisty, turny story just gave me even more reasons. And yes, I cried like a baby and it was awesome! I know this was a short, no real info review but my mind is fried, this is the best you'll get! Just be ready for the impact this will have on your emotions, unless you're a heartless unromantic slug, LOL!!
March 13, 2017
If you've been reading the Thalia series you know that when I say ... What the heck dude ... it means you're in for a serious upset. Thalia and James are settling in to their relationship and are very happy, making plans for the future BUT a reoccurring problem raises up it's head. And there's only one word to describe it .... Marcus. That's about all I'm going to say because if I tell you more you won't have to buy this for yourself and find the "Mad Hatter" inside. Jennifer Bene really knows how to keep her readers wondering what's going to happen next. Beware the darkness is literal for Thalia in this last installment.
November 1, 2018
**Be warned Spoilers!**Wow so much happened in this book and you knew it was coming with Marcus but OMG! 😳 I’ve got to be honest, I thought, ok ‘hoped’ that Marcus would turn himself around without Anthony and after losing Thalia, but that was obviously my clouded hopeful views that people can change, this was so well written, very Very difficult to read at times and as I’m not a bdsm ‘person’ do find it hard to understand some parts, but that doesn’t detract from just how amazing this author is to write such a hard, brutal but then full of love story that you get so completely invested in, downloaded the next book and can’t wait to start it 😁
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2019
A loss for words
I just don’t have words. My heart broke for Thalia. There is not enough evil I could wish upon Marcus and I feel I was jipped to be honest. I think the author should have given us a heck of a lot more revenge than what we got. But I am a vengeful kinda gal. I wanted Marcus in the chair, I wanted so much evil thrust upon him that he would pray for death just like Thalia had. Anyway, once again the author has elicited emotions from me, anger, pain, sadness, hope, and happiness. Thalia is one tough cookie and watching her grow and her strength through tragedy was a great read. Now on to the HEA....the last book!
I just don’t have words. My heart broke for Thalia. There is not enough evil I could wish upon Marcus and I feel I was jipped to be honest. I think the author should have given us a heck of a lot more revenge than what we got. But I am a vengeful kinda gal. I wanted Marcus in the chair, I wanted so much evil thrust upon him that he would pray for death just like Thalia had. Anyway, once again the author has elicited emotions from me, anger, pain, sadness, hope, and happiness. Thalia is one tough cookie and watching her grow and her strength through tragedy was a great read. Now on to the HEA....the last book!
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