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Divorce Decree: A Novel
TILL DEATH DO US PART. When Jake Adams uttered those words to his wife, Stephanie, he had an entirely different intention in mind. Industrious, determined, dedicated, devoted to his wife and children, he plans to give her, and them, the world. What Jake lacked in education, he made up for with willingness to learn and work hard so as to reap the rewards. In the end, it paid off—or so he believed. Stephanie should have been happy. And after all they went through together—the scares, dares, jobs, babies, successes, failures, lovers, separations, and second chances, why isn’t she content? What will it take? What is it that she wants him to do? As he struggles to discern truth from lies, it becomes a matter of being dead wrong or dead right. Find out who gets what’s deserved in this latest novel of emotional twists and turns by Nesly Clerge.
COMING SOON!! November 24th, 2018
Pre-order your copy now!!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GTX8X4H/...
COMING SOON!! November 24th, 2018
Pre-order your copy now!!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GTX8X4H/...
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 24, 2018
6 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Nesly Clerge
9 books279 followers
**INTERNATIONAL BOOK AWARD WINNER – GOLD MEDAL**
Readers' Favorite 2017 Best general fiction for When The Serpent Bites
**INTERNATIONAL BOOK AWARD WINNER – SILVER MEDAL**
Readers' Favorite 2017 Best general fiction for When The Dragon Roars
Nesly Clerge received his bachelor’s degree in physiology and neurobiology at the University of Maryland, and later pursued a doctoral degree in the field of chiropractic medicine. He is currently practicing as a board certified chiropractic physician. Although his background is primarily science-based, he has finally embraced his lifelong passion for writing. Clerge’s debut novel, When the Serpent Bites, explores choices, consequences, and the complexities of human emotions, especially when we are placed in a less-than-desirable setting. When he is not writing, Clerge manages several multidisciplinary clinics. He enjoys reading, chess, traveling, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with his significant other and his sons.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 22, 2019
This is a story of a married couple named Jake and Stephanie.
A couple so in love and devoted to each other they can’t keep their hands off each other. Jake just wants to keep Stephanie happy and loved.
I liked Jake.
I disliked Stephanie.
Jake said “I do” and expected “Til death do us part”.
I’m not so sure about Stephanie.
Jake worked hard for his family and his plans never always worked out.
However his luck changed when he met Starks.
It was great to meet up with Starks from the trilogy series that the author had written and see him make an appearance in this book.
It meant that Jake would need to commute at times as he had to go where the job took him along with the other workers that joined him.
That didn’t please Stephanie, although she enjoyed spending his money like water.
Now they have two children.
How is she going to raise two children on her own while her husband is away working providing a good life and foundation for their future!
Jake was a devoted Father.
Stephanie was never happy. But was Jake?
He listened to her moaning that she couldn’t manage the children alone.
That she was lonely.
The marriage of Jake and Stephanie was unraveling.
Lies, deceit and hidden agendas come to the fore.
I was invested in this story, chapter after chapter. It felt like watching a fairytale romance turn very sour.
It’s not a cut and dried story. There is a lot more death to this story that I want to write but won’t. There are twists in this book that will make you gasp.
It’s an emotional ride at times.
How love can turn to hate.
This author has won awards with his previous books and well deserved. His writing and unique way with words entices you right in between the pages and makes you think. And sometimes think twice.
I love how he developes the characters that they become so real. They are just every day people he makes into a story that grips you.
Well worth a read if you like relationship stories with depth and a twist.
A drama that plays out in your head and a nosy into other people’s lives.
A couple so in love and devoted to each other they can’t keep their hands off each other. Jake just wants to keep Stephanie happy and loved.
I liked Jake.
I disliked Stephanie.
Jake said “I do” and expected “Til death do us part”.
I’m not so sure about Stephanie.
Jake worked hard for his family and his plans never always worked out.
However his luck changed when he met Starks.
It was great to meet up with Starks from the trilogy series that the author had written and see him make an appearance in this book.
It meant that Jake would need to commute at times as he had to go where the job took him along with the other workers that joined him.
That didn’t please Stephanie, although she enjoyed spending his money like water.
Now they have two children.
How is she going to raise two children on her own while her husband is away working providing a good life and foundation for their future!
Jake was a devoted Father.
Stephanie was never happy. But was Jake?
He listened to her moaning that she couldn’t manage the children alone.
That she was lonely.
The marriage of Jake and Stephanie was unraveling.
Lies, deceit and hidden agendas come to the fore.
I was invested in this story, chapter after chapter. It felt like watching a fairytale romance turn very sour.
It’s not a cut and dried story. There is a lot more death to this story that I want to write but won’t. There are twists in this book that will make you gasp.
It’s an emotional ride at times.
How love can turn to hate.
This author has won awards with his previous books and well deserved. His writing and unique way with words entices you right in between the pages and makes you think. And sometimes think twice.
I love how he developes the characters that they become so real. They are just every day people he makes into a story that grips you.
Well worth a read if you like relationship stories with depth and a twist.
A drama that plays out in your head and a nosy into other people’s lives.
December 19, 2018
In DIVORCE DECREE by Nesly Clerge , the author explores the consequences and effects of the breakdown of a “Happy” marriage. How does it get to this stage? Love replaced by jealousy, hate and revenge which are so easily intertwined.
“TILL DEATH DO US PART.”
Jake Adams worked hard to setup a comfortable life for his wife, Stephanie, and their children, little Jake and Christine. He was the devoted loving husband and father who wanted to give them the world.
“In the end, it paid off—or so he believed. Stephanie should have been happy. And after all they went through together—the scares, dares, jobs, babies, successes, failures, lovers, separations, and second chances, why isn’t she content? What will it take? What is it that she wants him to do?”
Stephanie loved money and the good life. She loved to shop and spend all his money! There was no restraint on her spending. Why couldn’t she just be happy to just live a life that her husband could provide? She complained about having to raise the children alone, as he was always at work, and the amount of extra effort it required…so he agreed to a nanny. But it was never enough for Stephanie.
Life continues to unravel for this couple, more lies and deceit, with the children becoming pawns reaping the negative effects of the hurt that both adults instil on each other.
This was a well written emotional novel, with engaging characters, on a familiar topic. I found I was sucked in right from the beginning, as if I was watching a soap opera, and had to know how it ending, with so many lives on the line. I also enjoyed the brief appearance of Frederick Starks from The Starks Trilogy.
Many thanks to the author for my digital copy. Highly recommended.
Publication Date-November 24th, 2018
“TILL DEATH DO US PART.”
Jake Adams worked hard to setup a comfortable life for his wife, Stephanie, and their children, little Jake and Christine. He was the devoted loving husband and father who wanted to give them the world.
“In the end, it paid off—or so he believed. Stephanie should have been happy. And after all they went through together—the scares, dares, jobs, babies, successes, failures, lovers, separations, and second chances, why isn’t she content? What will it take? What is it that she wants him to do?”
Stephanie loved money and the good life. She loved to shop and spend all his money! There was no restraint on her spending. Why couldn’t she just be happy to just live a life that her husband could provide? She complained about having to raise the children alone, as he was always at work, and the amount of extra effort it required…so he agreed to a nanny. But it was never enough for Stephanie.
Life continues to unravel for this couple, more lies and deceit, with the children becoming pawns reaping the negative effects of the hurt that both adults instil on each other.
This was a well written emotional novel, with engaging characters, on a familiar topic. I found I was sucked in right from the beginning, as if I was watching a soap opera, and had to know how it ending, with so many lives on the line. I also enjoyed the brief appearance of Frederick Starks from The Starks Trilogy.
Many thanks to the author for my digital copy. Highly recommended.
Publication Date-November 24th, 2018
December 10, 2018
Always working hard to make ends meet, Jake Adams was determined to have enough money behind him before he asked Stephanie to be his wife. He wanted to give her only the best before they married and had children. So when they finally married, he knew they should both be happy. But Stephanie had no restraint on her spending – the phone bills were over the top; clothes she didn’t need found their way into the wardrobe; shoes he was sure she’d never wear. Why wasn’t she content with the life he was giving her?
The two children, first little Jake, then Christine, had Jake over the moon. He loved those kids. But Stephanie moaned about all the work she had to do; he was gone all day, never saw the naughty side of the children. Begrudgingly Jake agreed to a nanny – Stephanie still wasn’t happy. What was it going to take? And was she hiding things from him? Jake was suspicious – but tried to hold his temper. Meanwhile they moved further and further apart – what was happening?
Divorce Decree is author Nesly Clerge’s latest offering – an emotional roller coaster with main characters that were not at all likeable! Jake was a controlling bully, especially at the beginning of the novel, while Stephanie turned into a manipulative and hard-core witch! To my mind, Jake showed his colours early – so why on earth did Stephanie marry him? She should have been off like a rocket! It was a marriage destined for disaster – and boy, did it happen! I enjoyed the brief appearance of Frederick Starks from The Starks Trilogy too 😊 Recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The two children, first little Jake, then Christine, had Jake over the moon. He loved those kids. But Stephanie moaned about all the work she had to do; he was gone all day, never saw the naughty side of the children. Begrudgingly Jake agreed to a nanny – Stephanie still wasn’t happy. What was it going to take? And was she hiding things from him? Jake was suspicious – but tried to hold his temper. Meanwhile they moved further and further apart – what was happening?
Divorce Decree is author Nesly Clerge’s latest offering – an emotional roller coaster with main characters that were not at all likeable! Jake was a controlling bully, especially at the beginning of the novel, while Stephanie turned into a manipulative and hard-core witch! To my mind, Jake showed his colours early – so why on earth did Stephanie marry him? She should have been off like a rocket! It was a marriage destined for disaster – and boy, did it happen! I enjoyed the brief appearance of Frederick Starks from The Starks Trilogy too 😊 Recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2018
What box do I put this in? Domestic noir? The story of a toxic relationship? As the book opens you are wondering if Jake will ever be able to find true peace and happiness or if Steph's poison will haunt him for eternity. Jake Adams and Stephanie got together at a young age and it was a lot of hard work and sacrifice to get financially secure and in a position to start a family. They stuck it out and seemed to grow stronger through adversity. Then just when they had made it and things should have been easier it slowly started to unravel.
I didn't find the characters particularly likeable. Sure, Steph was a prize bitch towards the end but Jake came across as very controlling in the early years. He grew on me as the book progressed and as Steph became totally self absorbed. It is one of those train wreck stories, you know its going to be bad but you can't look away. Perhaps we are all secretly voyeurs at heart.
I also thought the characters of Pete and Melissa, childhood friends and regular confidantes of Jake came across as some sort of 'Jake's conscience' where Melissa was the 'good' voice and Pete was the 'bad' voice. It probably wasn't meant like that but that's how it felt to me. The poor children were very sweet as they became virtual pawns in the parental power struggle. As with all of Clerge's books the writing was excellent and the story was totally engaging and kept my interest throughout. Emotional and at times disturbing it was a very entertaining tale of a marriage imploding with shocking results.
Thanks to the author for an ARC copy to review.
I didn't find the characters particularly likeable. Sure, Steph was a prize bitch towards the end but Jake came across as very controlling in the early years. He grew on me as the book progressed and as Steph became totally self absorbed. It is one of those train wreck stories, you know its going to be bad but you can't look away. Perhaps we are all secretly voyeurs at heart.
I also thought the characters of Pete and Melissa, childhood friends and regular confidantes of Jake came across as some sort of 'Jake's conscience' where Melissa was the 'good' voice and Pete was the 'bad' voice. It probably wasn't meant like that but that's how it felt to me. The poor children were very sweet as they became virtual pawns in the parental power struggle. As with all of Clerge's books the writing was excellent and the story was totally engaging and kept my interest throughout. Emotional and at times disturbing it was a very entertaining tale of a marriage imploding with shocking results.
Thanks to the author for an ARC copy to review.
November 19, 2018
The blush of a bride, the nervous smile of a groom, the vows taken filled with love and hope for a future shared, together until death on the Earthly plane, but forever in spirit…Jake meant those words and through the tough times, he struggled to honor those vows, to be a success in life, but was he alone in their sincerity or were the bad times just too much for Stephanie?
In a world where a judge can easily rend the bonds of matrimony with one bang of his gavel, dreams are destroyed and for Jake, the nightmares and lies should have ended, but he will find they have just begun.
Nesly Clerge is back with a raw and gut-wrenching accounting of a marriage imploding and the aftermath it can leave in its wake in DIVORCE DECREE. Terrifyingly real, emotionally acidic, two flawed humans will traverse the minefields of trust, deceit and soul-deep pain, as children become pawns and power and the need to “win” at any cost mimic reality with brutal precision. The twists he adds to this already magnetic tale are brilliant, making it near impossible to put down.
Powerful writing, no punches pulled and a cast of supporting characters that are as realistic as this gritty plot, Nesly Clerge proves once again, the strength of his writing! As to adding a cameo appearance of one of his signature characters, I say, well-played, Mr. Clerge!
I cannot recommend this book highly enough for intense adult reading. Truly a hidden gem in the world of books!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Nesly Clerge!
Publisher: Clerge Books, LLC (November 24, 2018)
Publication Date: November 24, 2018
Genre: Contemporary Adult Fiction/Suspense
Print Length: 389 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
In a world where a judge can easily rend the bonds of matrimony with one bang of his gavel, dreams are destroyed and for Jake, the nightmares and lies should have ended, but he will find they have just begun.
Nesly Clerge is back with a raw and gut-wrenching accounting of a marriage imploding and the aftermath it can leave in its wake in DIVORCE DECREE. Terrifyingly real, emotionally acidic, two flawed humans will traverse the minefields of trust, deceit and soul-deep pain, as children become pawns and power and the need to “win” at any cost mimic reality with brutal precision. The twists he adds to this already magnetic tale are brilliant, making it near impossible to put down.
Powerful writing, no punches pulled and a cast of supporting characters that are as realistic as this gritty plot, Nesly Clerge proves once again, the strength of his writing! As to adding a cameo appearance of one of his signature characters, I say, well-played, Mr. Clerge!
I cannot recommend this book highly enough for intense adult reading. Truly a hidden gem in the world of books!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Nesly Clerge!
Publisher: Clerge Books, LLC (November 24, 2018)
Publication Date: November 24, 2018
Genre: Contemporary Adult Fiction/Suspense
Print Length: 389 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
December 15, 2018
Jake and Stephanie are living a life of a fairytale but yet there are secrets between them. Jake is stuck at a dead-end job and Stephanie has put her career on hold so she can help Jake reach his pull potential. Scorned by her past, Stephanie sometimes questions whys decided to pursue Jake solely on looks when she first met him, and her mother thinks she can do so much better. Jake does not care what people think of him, he will stop at nothing to provide for his family. Regardless of how things has been between them, his love for her surpasses any friction that is between them.
As dysfunctional as their relationship is, Jake will not settle for a life of mediocrity. Stephanie is impatient with little to no progress but she convinces herself that she is happy in her relationship. Like starts to easier when Jake makes his big break, but conflict arises when there are more secrets that are discovered.
This is a page turning, amazing novel about love, trust and loyalty. I really loved the characterization of this novel, that is one thing that stood out. Jake had too much patience, there were times when I wanted to smack him into common sense! Don't get me started on Stephanie, she was behaving like a spoiled brat with some things she did.
Amazing novel, kudos to the author who wrote an exceptional novel!
As dysfunctional as their relationship is, Jake will not settle for a life of mediocrity. Stephanie is impatient with little to no progress but she convinces herself that she is happy in her relationship. Like starts to easier when Jake makes his big break, but conflict arises when there are more secrets that are discovered.
This is a page turning, amazing novel about love, trust and loyalty. I really loved the characterization of this novel, that is one thing that stood out. Jake had too much patience, there were times when I wanted to smack him into common sense! Don't get me started on Stephanie, she was behaving like a spoiled brat with some things she did.
Amazing novel, kudos to the author who wrote an exceptional novel!
November 20, 2018
The storyline was solid and kept me engaged as I found this one difficult to put down. Good background information helped make the present situation understandable. I liked the fact this story took me into the thought processes of Jake & Stephanie, giving both opinions on what they felt a relationship, then marriage entailed. While both offered valid points, their totally opposite opinions kept them on different pages. Jake appeared frugal as he attempted to build for their future, while Stephanie's carefree attitude seemed to always cause a ruckus. I admired Jake's determined spirit to become successful & although it took some time, some of Stephanie's actions made her a bit annoying. The additional cast of character's input offered points of view that had me hoping would not be acted upon without careful consideration. Certain struggles that couples face were well represented. Overall, I thought this was great read looking at both perspectives. A previous book character's appearance connected well within the story. Characters were relatable & situations realistic. An electronic copy was provided in exchange for an honest review
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January 29, 2019Will review tomorrow. Been traveling and exhausted but I could not sleep until I knew what happened. This author is certainly a clever clever man. 10 stars all the way.
Ok a month later and I have looked back and thought more on this. First things first...I read over a 100 books a year and Anatomy of a Scandal was a top for me last year. I became a forever fan of Nesly Clerge.
Start there with that book and after you get over the haze of finding a new author move on to Divorce Decree and be prepared for another ride. People People People Mr. Clerge can flat out write.
Let me know your thoughts and in lieu of sending flowers of thanks to me for these suggestions just keep on reading this authors' books. That will be thanks enough.
Ok a month later and I have looked back and thought more on this. First things first...I read over a 100 books a year and Anatomy of a Scandal was a top for me last year. I became a forever fan of Nesly Clerge.
Start there with that book and after you get over the haze of finding a new author move on to Divorce Decree and be prepared for another ride. People People People Mr. Clerge can flat out write.
Let me know your thoughts and in lieu of sending flowers of thanks to me for these suggestions just keep on reading this authors' books. That will be thanks enough.
November 28, 2018
Wow
This was such an original take on a relationship built on love that turns to hate. I am a big fan of this author and he never disappoints. I looked forward to this book and it was worth the wait.
This was such an original take on a relationship built on love that turns to hate. I am a big fan of this author and he never disappoints. I looked forward to this book and it was worth the wait.
December 23, 2018
Jake Adams is a hard worker. The trouble he has is finding a job or jobs that pay well enough. He is determined that he is going to have the right start for him and his girlfriend Stephanie. By chance he finds a second part time job and one thing leads to another. They move towns again and again trying to make a better life for themselves. Stephanie has aborted twice as they couldn’t afford to keep themselves, let alone a child despite this being what they both want, just not now. Eventually through tears and hardships, romance and arguments they get to the point they can afford to marry. The book begins with Jake running away from a second marriage, remembering what has gone before. Nesly has a way with his characters that you almost feel as if you are watching them on the TV so real is the writing. We have all seen the TV programmes where couples argue and hiss and spit at each other. Can things really get that bad…..? Love can turn to hate- a strong word but maybe when you have been so close it’s not difficult to get that distant, knowing how the other thinks and will act make the moves even quicker and feeling escalate rapidly. I very quickly got into this and had a felt for Jake (to start with), doing his utmost to keep their heads above water whilst trying to hold down a relationship he thought he would die for and live the rest of his days with the person he thought was the one. However he is a control freak and possibly tendencies to OCD, something that can be very difficult to live with. Most divorces are not so acrimonious but we all know the horror stories. An interesting read of what goes on behind closed doors, of the infighting that love can sadly lead to.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
Amazon Top 1000 reviewer.
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For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
Amazon Top 1000 reviewer.
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December 14, 2018
St. Louis, MO. Jake Adams (23, B/F) worked for Mo Patterson at Mo’s Bakery.
Stephanie Smith (live-in G/F, U of Maryland; BS) worked P/T also.
1-day Jake retired home & found their house had been taped off.
A robbery had occurred & Stephanie had been taken to Mercy Charity Hospital ER.
Dr. Bellotte gave Jake the update.
Rebecca from Mercy Hospital called Jake.
Stephanie told him what had happened.
The 2 of them moved to Creve Coeur, MO.
Jake had gotten a better paying job but less hours.
Rolly Beckwith offered him a F/T position.
What was Stephanie Adams hiding from Jake & Victoria Smith (mother)?
George Frances is the owner of GF Construction. Paulie Atkinson (crew), Miguel (crew), & Jake would be doing work in the Seabrook housing development.
2/14/2007, Jake Adams Jr. had arrived.
Christine was the new edition to the family.
JPM Construction had been formed. Jake, Paulie, & Miguel were the owners/workers.
Weston, MA. Tendum Enterprise engineering firm. Frederick Starks might be their 1st contract.
On 1 of his W/E home Steph told Jake she wanted a divorce.
Maggie (nanny) had moved into the spare bedroom.
Later, Steph told Jake she was going to Paris with Carla & Tammie.
San Juan, Puerto Rico Palm & Beach Hotel. Jake took his trip.
Jake signed the lease for a 2-story condo.
Steph & Jake were now legally separated, then divorced.
2016, How would Steph & Jake’s lives turn out?
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. A very well written whirlwind romance book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great whirlwind romance movie, or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me, so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free Instafreebie; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
Stephanie Smith (live-in G/F, U of Maryland; BS) worked P/T also.
1-day Jake retired home & found their house had been taped off.
A robbery had occurred & Stephanie had been taken to Mercy Charity Hospital ER.
Dr. Bellotte gave Jake the update.
Rebecca from Mercy Hospital called Jake.
Stephanie told him what had happened.
The 2 of them moved to Creve Coeur, MO.
Jake had gotten a better paying job but less hours.
Rolly Beckwith offered him a F/T position.
What was Stephanie Adams hiding from Jake & Victoria Smith (mother)?
George Frances is the owner of GF Construction. Paulie Atkinson (crew), Miguel (crew), & Jake would be doing work in the Seabrook housing development.
2/14/2007, Jake Adams Jr. had arrived.
Christine was the new edition to the family.
JPM Construction had been formed. Jake, Paulie, & Miguel were the owners/workers.
Weston, MA. Tendum Enterprise engineering firm. Frederick Starks might be their 1st contract.
On 1 of his W/E home Steph told Jake she wanted a divorce.
Maggie (nanny) had moved into the spare bedroom.
Later, Steph told Jake she was going to Paris with Carla & Tammie.
San Juan, Puerto Rico Palm & Beach Hotel. Jake took his trip.
Jake signed the lease for a 2-story condo.
Steph & Jake were now legally separated, then divorced.
2016, How would Steph & Jake’s lives turn out?
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. A very well written whirlwind romance book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great whirlwind romance movie, or better yet a mini TV series. It was just OK for me, so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free Instafreebie; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
January 5, 2019
Nesly Clerge thrills us again with an intense and shocking story of love, betrayal, and devastation.
We learn about Jake and Stephanie, how they think and how they feel, how they mistrust and how they plot.
This was such an original take on a relationship built on love that turns to hate.
A real good read, you love and hate them both well done Mr Clerge you have written another great book a must read ....
We learn about Jake and Stephanie, how they think and how they feel, how they mistrust and how they plot.
This was such an original take on a relationship built on love that turns to hate.
A real good read, you love and hate them both well done Mr Clerge you have written another great book a must read ....
January 20, 2019
Can you enjoy a read where the characters are irritating? Well, in this case, I could. Jake and Stephanie know how to push each other’s buttons – in the positive and negative ways! As much as at the time I wanted to slap them, they kept me reading. This was one of those books where I found myself talking to the characters. The author did a great job of reflecting the highs, lows, and middles of a long term relationship/marriage between two not perfect people. I also liked the Prologue from 2018. It hooked me so much that I did not even mind the jump back to 2001 and slow progression forward. I knew what was coming – or at least I thought I did!
January 6, 2019
This is Nesly Clerge’s most intimate novel, an examination of a marriage careening off the rails, steadied with blind hope, and then careening yet again. You know lives will be destroyed, but the tension builds as we wonder when, who, and how?
While we get both perspectives, the focus is on Jake Adams, a flawed but decent guy who is clearly in over his head:
“Like a damn cobra, she’d captivated him until he was paralyzed by love. Until her venomous bite had him bleeding from every orifice.”
Fans of Clerge’s Starks series will note familiar themes, but this is a distinct story with fresh, engaging characters. The result is another taut and poignant novel by a master of the genre.
While we get both perspectives, the focus is on Jake Adams, a flawed but decent guy who is clearly in over his head:
“Like a damn cobra, she’d captivated him until he was paralyzed by love. Until her venomous bite had him bleeding from every orifice.”
Fans of Clerge’s Starks series will note familiar themes, but this is a distinct story with fresh, engaging characters. The result is another taut and poignant novel by a master of the genre.
January 3, 2019
Nesly Clerge has done it again with this roller coaster of a ride telling of a relationship leading to marriage and ending in a divorce that beats no others.
Stephanie and Jake have it all despite the fact that they help financially as most young couples do. Without giving away too much, Stephanie loses sight of who she is when she decides to put her dreams on hold to help out financially in the relationship. Jake is a hard working man with goals and dreams in his sight. He is organized and knows how to make them happen. As logic would dictate, part of making these dreams happen means that he will spend time away from home and Stephanie. More than few bumps happen along the way, with Stephanie and Jake losing site of talking to one another, being honest with one another, telling each other what they want and don't want. There are things that cannot be undone or unsaid. And in the end one and/or both go over the edge of no return.
Stephanie and Jake have it all despite the fact that they help financially as most young couples do. Without giving away too much, Stephanie loses sight of who she is when she decides to put her dreams on hold to help out financially in the relationship. Jake is a hard working man with goals and dreams in his sight. He is organized and knows how to make them happen. As logic would dictate, part of making these dreams happen means that he will spend time away from home and Stephanie. More than few bumps happen along the way, with Stephanie and Jake losing site of talking to one another, being honest with one another, telling each other what they want and don't want. There are things that cannot be undone or unsaid. And in the end one and/or both go over the edge of no return.
December 27, 2018
A 'prequel' to the Starks Trilogy books, this story revolves around Jake and Stephanie's marriage. Clerge does an excellent job getting inside the mind of a woman. We learn about Jake and Stephanie, how they think and how they feel, how they mistrust and how they plot. As they grow closer and then drift apart, you can't help but wish they'd just go to counseling and learn to communicate. A real good read, you love and hate them both, and cheer them on and boo at them!
December 8, 2018
Few novels have the emotional twists and turns like Nesly Clerge’s.
The story itself if fast paced and well written, pulling us in from the first word. The author uses his phenomenal understanding of people and our emotions and thought processes to entangle us in a happy marriage that eventually turns sour as the communication between the couple breaks down, allowing their jealousy, anger, and frustration to get the better part of them.
The characters are all well written, and neither one of the main characters are right and both are wrong. As happens so often in real life, a simple explanation could’ve prevented so much, but us digging in our heals when we’re sure we’re right often leads to tragedy. There are so many times the story could have turned had it not been of one (Not saying who. No spoilers here.) could’ve moved beyond their pride and hurt feelings to listen or think beyond their own boundaries.
In many ways, the Jake and Stephanie are so real, it’s easy to see pieces of ourselves in this and treat it like a “What Not to Do” manual. On that note, I’d recommend relying on a professional opinion instead, but if it helps us to look inside ourselves, that could be the first important step, right?
I do have to admit, my favorite interactions were between Jake’s best friends, Pete and Melissa, who play great parts as Jake’s conscious and serve as great comic relief when they’re antagonizing each other. Of course, seeing Starks is a nice caveat. Crossovers rock when done right, and this is done right.
As usual, this is an awesome glimpse into the human condition by the author, and it’s a must read for anyone that loves well-written, reality based drama.
The story itself if fast paced and well written, pulling us in from the first word. The author uses his phenomenal understanding of people and our emotions and thought processes to entangle us in a happy marriage that eventually turns sour as the communication between the couple breaks down, allowing their jealousy, anger, and frustration to get the better part of them.
The characters are all well written, and neither one of the main characters are right and both are wrong. As happens so often in real life, a simple explanation could’ve prevented so much, but us digging in our heals when we’re sure we’re right often leads to tragedy. There are so many times the story could have turned had it not been of one (Not saying who. No spoilers here.) could’ve moved beyond their pride and hurt feelings to listen or think beyond their own boundaries.
In many ways, the Jake and Stephanie are so real, it’s easy to see pieces of ourselves in this and treat it like a “What Not to Do” manual. On that note, I’d recommend relying on a professional opinion instead, but if it helps us to look inside ourselves, that could be the first important step, right?
I do have to admit, my favorite interactions were between Jake’s best friends, Pete and Melissa, who play great parts as Jake’s conscious and serve as great comic relief when they’re antagonizing each other. Of course, seeing Starks is a nice caveat. Crossovers rock when done right, and this is done right.
As usual, this is an awesome glimpse into the human condition by the author, and it’s a must read for anyone that loves well-written, reality based drama.
December 20, 2018
I was hooked from the beginning. This book explores the complexities of human emotions and how people can react when faced with severe situations. I appreciate that the story digs deeper into the characters and their reactions. Even when you know someone is in the wrong, the story development helps you understand where they are coming from, making it hard to find complete fault in their actions. Well written and I definitely recommend.
November 21, 2018
Nesly Clerge thrills us again with an intense and shocking story of love, betrayal, and devastation.
This one starts with a stomp on the gas and black marks on the road, then we move to a deep and fascinating look into a blissfully happy, then strained, long term relationship between Jake and Stephanie.
Through many shared life experiences both find it difficult to see from other's point of view, which makes being together extremely complicated and leads to much heartache, blame, and eventually many savage interactions. Throw in a handful of highly opinionated friends on both sides and you have the makings of an explosion waiting to happen.
This book is very hard to put down. I read some portions of it up and walking because the tension was too much to sit still through. The way he writes it makes you feel like you're right there, experiencing everything the characters are. A couple times I found myself seriously tensed up for the bad stuff you just knew was coming. He's also a master at dropping well placed and unexpected bombs.
Lastly, I absolutely love when well known characters from other books by the author pop up in the story, it is very cool to get more information about their lives. Mr. Clerge is expanding his literary world and I love it. I firmly believe that in time we will see some of his books turned into movies. Do not pass this story up, you will definitely be missing out!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much to this amazing author!
This one starts with a stomp on the gas and black marks on the road, then we move to a deep and fascinating look into a blissfully happy, then strained, long term relationship between Jake and Stephanie.
Through many shared life experiences both find it difficult to see from other's point of view, which makes being together extremely complicated and leads to much heartache, blame, and eventually many savage interactions. Throw in a handful of highly opinionated friends on both sides and you have the makings of an explosion waiting to happen.
This book is very hard to put down. I read some portions of it up and walking because the tension was too much to sit still through. The way he writes it makes you feel like you're right there, experiencing everything the characters are. A couple times I found myself seriously tensed up for the bad stuff you just knew was coming. He's also a master at dropping well placed and unexpected bombs.
Lastly, I absolutely love when well known characters from other books by the author pop up in the story, it is very cool to get more information about their lives. Mr. Clerge is expanding his literary world and I love it. I firmly believe that in time we will see some of his books turned into movies. Do not pass this story up, you will definitely be missing out!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much to this amazing author!
November 27, 2018
Another cracking novel from the pen of Nesly Clerge. Was this based on actual events? The author himself has gone through a divorce, although I sincerely hope it was nothing like Jake and Stephanie's.
From the very beginning Jake knew he had found 'The One' he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Unfortunately, her mother did not agree with her choice. The couple's reactions to the hardships and loss they suffer early on are completely different. At those times it feels like they are two separate entities, rather than a team. Being the way I am, I can totally see both sides of the story all the way through. I tried so hard not to favour one person, and then, of course, you have the friends putting in their tuppence-worth.
As you have come to expect from a Nesly Clerge novel, the writing is pure quality and flows smoothly (unlike the characters' lives). Clerge couples cringingly cruel and 'pulling your heart out of your chest' emotions with tenderness and unexpected explosions of ferocity. It's a cleverly put together novel showing just how easily people can knowingly (and unknowingly) hurt each other, and other family members who are dragged into the fight. This is a brutally honest book that keeps you riveted to each page. Excellent.
I received an eARC which I voluntarily read and honestly reviewed. All opinions are my own.
From the very beginning Jake knew he had found 'The One' he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Unfortunately, her mother did not agree with her choice. The couple's reactions to the hardships and loss they suffer early on are completely different. At those times it feels like they are two separate entities, rather than a team. Being the way I am, I can totally see both sides of the story all the way through. I tried so hard not to favour one person, and then, of course, you have the friends putting in their tuppence-worth.
As you have come to expect from a Nesly Clerge novel, the writing is pure quality and flows smoothly (unlike the characters' lives). Clerge couples cringingly cruel and 'pulling your heart out of your chest' emotions with tenderness and unexpected explosions of ferocity. It's a cleverly put together novel showing just how easily people can knowingly (and unknowingly) hurt each other, and other family members who are dragged into the fight. This is a brutally honest book that keeps you riveted to each page. Excellent.
I received an eARC which I voluntarily read and honestly reviewed. All opinions are my own.
December 3, 2018
Who hasn't wondered what went wrong in a relationship, your own or someone else's? How did we, or they, go from the early days of love to the end days of hate? Nesly Clerge explores the question in Divorce Decree, where we see Jake and Stephanie's relationship devolve over the course of years.
Nesly uses his gift for understanding human psychology to take us inside this relationship and show us just how things end up going wrong for a couple, and how love, jealousy, and hate are intertwined and lead to the downfall of the relationship. It's always a pleasure to read Nesly Clerge's books; the dialogue is natural and the emotions portrayed are real. He knows what makes people tick and his characters could be our friends, our neighbors, even ourselves.
If you haven't yet read one of Nesly Clerge's books, don't delay. This is an author you don't want to miss.
I received a free copy of this book, which I voluntarily chose to review.
Nesly uses his gift for understanding human psychology to take us inside this relationship and show us just how things end up going wrong for a couple, and how love, jealousy, and hate are intertwined and lead to the downfall of the relationship. It's always a pleasure to read Nesly Clerge's books; the dialogue is natural and the emotions portrayed are real. He knows what makes people tick and his characters could be our friends, our neighbors, even ourselves.
If you haven't yet read one of Nesly Clerge's books, don't delay. This is an author you don't want to miss.
I received a free copy of this book, which I voluntarily chose to review.
November 20, 2018
This was a good read. The disintegration of a 'perfect marriage' is all too common in the real world, but at least not all of them go as badly as what we read in this book!
August 10, 2019
I found this a painfully long, slow burn which is perhaps what the author intended for divorce at the best of times is acrimonious. In this instance, it is the tale of two people, Stephanie and Luke, who start out young and in love with no qualifications or financial security. Interestingly, when they have little, they are supportive and caring of one another but as Luke becomes financially better off and spends more and more time away from Stephanie and his two children, the relationship quickly disintegrates with ugliness setting in. I liked neither of the main characters but enjoyed the perspectives of Luke's friend Pete, a man burned by repeated marriage failures.
June 16, 2020
Very emotional ride! I think I’d love to have someone who loved me
March 21, 2019
I received an e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
As a fan of Nesly Clerge’s book, The Anatomy of Cheating (which I read last year), I was really excited to read this one when it was sent to me. I had pretty high expectations because I absolutely loved his other book.
And…….it did not disappoint! The story gives us a tour of how ugly things can get when a relationship goes downhill and how proper communication is so important to a couple.
The Issues:
1. It took me a while to finish this because it was kinda long
2. There was a lot going on in a couple of parts and it took me some time to wrap my head around what was happening
3. I HATED Stephanie’s friends. Friends like those are the reason people end up hating each other.
The Good Stuff:
1. The book was well-written as always! The author seriously has a way with words and everything flowed quite nicely. I found myself yelling at the characters in my head every single time they were about to do something stupid, haha.
2. The story cleverly showed the ups and downs that come with any marriage or relationship
Random Thoughts:
1. They found it so hard to be a team and dealt with the situation they were in, in different ways. That made things even worse. All they had to do was be honest with each other from the beginning and find a way to not choose one person’s dreams over the other. I did not want to pick a side because they were both wrong in their own ways. Although Stephanie went a little crazy towards the end, Jake wasn’t so innocent either. I feel like he started it all. Again, trying not to pick sides.
Overall Impression:
I think everyone needs to read this to truly understand that there are always two sides to every issue. It takes two people to make a relationship work and two people to run it into the ground. You should definitely pick this one up and his other books too!
As a fan of Nesly Clerge’s book, The Anatomy of Cheating (which I read last year), I was really excited to read this one when it was sent to me. I had pretty high expectations because I absolutely loved his other book.
And…….it did not disappoint! The story gives us a tour of how ugly things can get when a relationship goes downhill and how proper communication is so important to a couple.
The Issues:
1. It took me a while to finish this because it was kinda long
2. There was a lot going on in a couple of parts and it took me some time to wrap my head around what was happening
3. I HATED Stephanie’s friends. Friends like those are the reason people end up hating each other.
The Good Stuff:
1. The book was well-written as always! The author seriously has a way with words and everything flowed quite nicely. I found myself yelling at the characters in my head every single time they were about to do something stupid, haha.
2. The story cleverly showed the ups and downs that come with any marriage or relationship
Random Thoughts:
1. They found it so hard to be a team and dealt with the situation they were in, in different ways. That made things even worse. All they had to do was be honest with each other from the beginning and find a way to not choose one person’s dreams over the other. I did not want to pick a side because they were both wrong in their own ways. Although Stephanie went a little crazy towards the end, Jake wasn’t so innocent either. I feel like he started it all. Again, trying not to pick sides.
Overall Impression:
I think everyone needs to read this to truly understand that there are always two sides to every issue. It takes two people to make a relationship work and two people to run it into the ground. You should definitely pick this one up and his other books too!
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