Strike

Stronger #4

by Jay Marie

HER
It's been over a year since my first taste of blood, since I've learned what it means to truly evolve in order to survive. I'm not proud of what I've become, but I'll do what I have to in order to remain on the pedestal I've been placed on. Hardened, determined, calculated, my motivation rests on the eternal satisfaction of one man, and I've gotten damn good at keeping it up. I can no longer afford to crumble like before. Mistakes are not acceptable and anything less than absolute perfection is deserving of the severe condemnation that follows. But as I develop deeper into this demanding role, I can feel a shift in the wind. Nothing ever stays the same for very long when it comes to this world. Alliances change, enemies expand, and trust is questioned. When everything is dependent upon the strength and brutality of your character, what happens when the one person you thought was beneath you is on the verge of becoming your equivalent?

HIM
I’d never been so satisfied in my life. In the course of a year, I took the most beautiful girl I’d ever seen and molded her into a miniature machine of focus, death, and more sex appeal than I could have ever imagined. She was near perfection in all its forms and her dedication to remain so was impressive …if not endearing. Jaden was worthy of everything I wanted to lay at her feet, but as I watched her wear the crown, like usual, I had underestimated how well she would wear it, how well she would wear me. And with the growing threats of my enemies, I needed to make sure that her crown was bulletproof to everyone. Everyone except me. Because it didn’t matter how well she could evolve, one thing would always remain the same. She was mine in every sense of the word. Till death do us part.

WARNING: Contains disturbing content that may be offensive to some readers.

*NOTE: For every book that is sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to a charity that benefits victims of human trafficking.*

Genres: Dark, Dark Romance, Contemporary, Abuse, BDSM, Suspense, Thriller

650 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 29, 2019

About the author

Jay Marie has been writing since she first learned the alphabet, but it wasn’t until 25 years later that she finally decided to take the deep plunge into the depths of publishing. Her written work conveys the darker side of writing, bringing in to light what most may shy away from. She has a passion for writing strong female characters with a brain that can override their sex drives, deliver one hell of a punch as well as take one. They have backbones made of steel and hearts that beat with a ferocity that refuses to be tamed or matched.

Her inspiration comes in the form of a minefield on top of a snow covered mountain. One step and a new idea explodes in her head, and then before you know it, she has an avalanche of ideas rushing through her brain and it does not stop!

When she's not writing until the late hours of the night, she's working as a legal assistant at a personal injury law firm in Michigan. She is also a part time law student at the University of Detroit Mercy Law School where she studies in the evening in hopes of becoming a human rights attorney. She enjoys practicing and teaching martial arts in her spare time as well as riding around on her super fun Honda Grom motorcycle.

If you'd like to connect with her more, check out her author page on Facebook where she posts occasional teasers of her upcoming books!

https://www.facebook.com/JMarieSeries/

Reviews

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jay Marie hit it out of the park once again. This book was amazing. I literally was trying to read this every spare moment I had...it was that gripping. I never wanted it to end.

Jaden is back...and she is kicking @ss and finally starting to get her revenge...the ending was superb. This is NOT a dark romance. Darren needs to die a terrible, painful death...the things he put Jaden through were horrific and there just isn’t any redeeming quality in him...yes he is obsessed with Jaden...he loves her (as much as a person like him can)...but he is utterly selfish and psychotic. Can’t wait for the final book. Bring it on....😍

[Natalia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg... This was one hell of a trip!! So much happened... Jaden had it rough for a while but after a special meeting in a bathroom her all demeanor change!! She found her focus and it was amazing... I was team Daren till this book... I thought that maybe she could redeem him... But after this, there's no salvation, even when without him knowing he is in love with her... I feel sorry for the child he was once but that man is pure evil.

The psychological warfare use in this books are simply my favorite one...

Congratulations to Jay for the amazing book.

Side note

A+ for the geography change... Spain is not only Madrid and Barcelona ( the usual location authors use)!

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars !!!!
This is by far my favorite book in the series.
The way we can see the damage that Darren has caused Jaden, how he manipulate her mind and body and all the conditioning is show in a manner that you can understand how Jaden is so strong for all she has to endure and how she knowing she is conditioning she still has fire inside her.

How little by little she is gaining more strength and is learning to fight dirty to finally have her revenge and be free.

I love to hate Darren. He is so despicable. I really hate him and can’t wait to see Jaden burn down his empire and life. But I know he is so smart, so she has a long way to go and a lot more pain to suffer.

What can I say about Jason. We know little about his side, but I love him to the moon and back. His love and devotion for Jaden has made me respect him and root for him.

In this book we see a more smarter Jaden, more calculated, more intelligent and more in tune with her strengths and her vulnerabilities and limitations.

Camaro is the best dog ever.

I was glad to see more of Kayla and see a little about her fire too.

I can’t wait to read the next book and see all the explosions of passion and fire that surely we will get.
I hope to see them all burn with Jaden seeing them all burn in her vengeance and finally getting a little of justice. Because no person deserves to be owned by other.

[Cécile Smits · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting patiently for Strike,knowing that Jay Marie had a lot on her plate,knowing it would take a while.
Seeing it on pre-order on iTunes made me jump with joy,and having it in my library was even better!
Having read it,i know it was more than worth the wait......and leaves me wanting that final part,Stand.
Because where Strike ended?
How Strike ended?
Damn! IT WAS GOOD!

Rising from the ashes of her former self,is the Phoenix Jaden.
A stronger,tougher version of the strong girl Darren did his best to destroy.
A version that is even more determined to destroy the monster that he is.
To destroy the world he lives in,annihilate his evil empire.
To make that happen,she’ll have to endure,she’ll have to gain his trust.
And if that means marrying the bastard,then that’s what she’ll do.
Still hoping that he doesn’t find Jason and her family.......

On their honeymoon,he shows a gentler side,but she’s not really fooled.
Even though she takes all the good she can.
Until he reminds her the world he thrives in,by taking her to an auction.....
Killing him is the thing she wants to do most at that moment,but she knows she can’t.
His world is the only world he believes in,and he’ll do anything to make her accept it.

But when that world takes the only thing he has of value,the one he knows means so much to him?
He is ready to go to war,until......he finds Jaden very capable of getting herself to safety.
She has become the warrior Queen he wanted her to be,but is it as satisfying as he thought?

What will Jaden do with her newfound reputation?
Can she use it to her advantage?
And how?


I desperately need Stand!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know what is completely sexy and what I admire about Darren Davis despite the mental ride he's taken me on for FOUR BOOKS? The fact that he's evil to the core and he damn well owns it.

No sob story. No redemption.

It's so REFRESHING to read about a male villain who is purely that a VILLAIN.

A villain who knows exactly what he wants and doesn't care what anyone else thinks. This I can appreciate.

Dare I say I haven't felt this fascinated by a villain since my Darkling Shadow and Bone days:P

Okay. That is all. I absolutely cannot wait to read the shitshow that will be the final book and watch Darren's demise (or not?). DARREN just FASCINATES me, and I don't know what to expect from him in the finale:) (4.5 stars and my favorite of the series so far. ALSO LOOK AT THAT COVER, HELLO GORGEOUS)

[Taonga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book. Totally worth the wait.

I won't say too much but the ending was spectacular and left me cheering for the heroine. Darren seriously has it coming for him. He definitely won't see what hit him. Jaden's growth throughout the series has been consistent and beautiful the hurdles she faced, God knows I would have been dead by page 30 of the first book. Jason's devotion to her is awe-inspiring. His sheer determination could move mountains. One more thing. There was a line towards the end that sounded like a reference to
South Park, "Fuck! They killed Kenny!". That line had me hollering.

The wait for the next book, Stand, will be worth it and I believe Jay Marie will deliver another banger.

[Sahara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Got a little sidetracked reading fanfiction, but this was really good. Now I just desperately wait for the next instalment 😭.

[Wendi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jay Marie has always told us devoted followers of her books that they are NOT a love story. The helpless romantics in us didn't quite believe her. Well, after reading this book, I get it. This is NOT a love story. This is not even close to being a love story. This is about control, obsession, power and reigning over all others. The metamorphosis of Jaden in this book was astounding. She's always been a strong character but she turned the tables in this book and is not just trying to survive,, she's out for the blood of her enemies. I found myself doing the half smile/smirk while reading imagining Jaden had the very same look on her face. I loved every word in this book. I loved the twists, turns and OMG surprises and there were many!!! I'll be day dreaming about this series while I wait for the next book.

[Kaylee Johns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy smokes! This book was action packed and engaging from start to finish. There were a lot of twists and turns that kept my heart pounding. The characters have become more evolved and tangible, especially Darren. His childhood and upbringing are explained in detail as well as his mother’s death and his history with Katherine and her family. The ending was pure brilliance and has left me wanting MORE! There is a fine line between love and hate, but Jaden is still choosing hate when it comes to Darren.

[Amanda Marie ❤'s Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unbelievable!

What a ride! Sweet Jesus, this book. I have whiplash myself from the mood swings and back and forth exhibited by Darren. At one point Jaden accuses Darren of not knowing what he wants from her, and I have to agree. Poor Jaden is dealing with a moving target. It isn't possible to satisfy someone whose idea of satisfaction is constantly shifting. He wants the impossible- for her to maintain her fire, fight, and hatred, but also for her to be submissive to him. She is set up for failure. And doesn't he love it when she fails.

There are so many surprises and adventures in this book. Multiple trips to alternate locations presenting new security concerns as well as opportunities for craziness. Introductions of new characters and enemies, but also inclusion of some previous characters.

My heart was racing! My head spinning! I stayed up reading until my body passed out, picking the book back up in the morning. Ignoring my house. Hardly eating. I HAD to finish! I HAD to know! And now? I will social-stalk Jay Marie at least as bad as before, praying book five doesn't have the same lead time as book four. Because, lord help me, I can't take the suspense!

This book, as have others in this series, made me FEEL. I felt happiness and victory. I felt sadness and fury. I felt shock. Nausea. A full range of emotions.

I have seen responses from this author on her reader page that this series won't be the end of her writing, and I couldn't be happier. I am bummed that this world will come to an end after one more book, but so thrilled that she will share other stories with us in the future. Her writing is that addictive. Every book in this series has been a no-question five-star favorite, and I will definitely be re-reading this whole series again and again.


Find me at:
Facebook: https://fb.me/amandamariereads
Blog: http://amandamariereads.blog

[NC Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 disappointing stars.
After waiting for almost 2 years for this book, I was expecting so much more.
The over the top matrix bullshit with Jaden’s character was too much. This chick is supposed to be a 115lbs, 5’ something, athletic woman. I understand she trains all day everyday but come the hell on. Taking out an entire army of guards? It’s over the top and ridiculous. I spent way too much time reading about blade throwing, roundhouse kicks and head bashing. Seriously, the book could have been half the length if we didn’t have to read through all of that crap.
AND unfortunately, the fifth and final book of the series won’t be coming out anytime soon. It’ll be at least a year (or 2 like this one).

[Paula Kay · Rating 1 out of 5]

The Author asked me: What is wrong with putting out a book cover in advance ? - It has been YEARS. She did the bait and switch hoping to placate her readers with the cover of #5. I feel sorry for her future law clients if she ever does pass the bar. I passed it many years ago and I can tell you now her 'I am so busy' excuses will not get her or her clients far in a court of law...I can hear the judge: 'I find in favor of the defendant and Miss Marie, if you are lucky enough your client does not write to the bar to report you please make a note: If you are a one pony show organize yourself!' Hell - The judge will probably tell her if this is the best she can do maybe she needs to rethink being a full time author and do her clients a favor and leave the practice of law to attorneys who have the TIME.

[A Sharkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

WoW!!!! Fantastic job Jay Marie!! We've waited a long time for this book and it did not disappoint. This is book number 4 in the Stronger Series. This series is so addicting. Strike is my favorite book in the series. It's well written and surpassed my expectations!! There were a lot of twists and turns that made me not want to put it down!! I like that you find a lot about the history of some of the characters. I know Jaden is a smart person but what she pulls off in this book is amazing. Jay did a wonderful job on this book actually the entire series. It's going to be a hard wait for the final book!

[J Love Lemon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally!!! I absolutely loved the book! There were a few really shocking moments I didn’t expected, at least not until final book, but I enjoyed jt very much. Jaden was on a whole new level, big suprise especially after the ending in previous book, and still one of my favorite characters. Can’t wait for the next one, I have a feeling it will be the best one!!

[Ewa · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG, I haven't read such a good, suspenseful dark for a long time, playing on reader's emotions and so unpredictable. After the spectacular ending of the previous part, you can expect that Darren has achieved his goal: he broke Jaden to later wake her up and shape her according to his own desires, to become the queen of his underground empire. And he doesn't sort out the means to achieve it, to always arouse in Jaden the fear of returning to the basement and unimaginable pain. He trains her for a person who is able to defend herself and tests her at every step. Because as a queen by his side she will be exposed to the attacks of his enemies. Everyone else is to respect her, but she is still lower in hierarchy than he is. However, he doesn't seem to realize that Jaden is more cunning than he thinks. When Darren achieves his goal, making Jaden his wife, she has no other option but to agree, but it opens her window to the world, she goes on a honeymoon to Europe, meeting on her way both Darren's allies and his enemies. And while she has the opportunity to escape, she decides to stay and slowly, step by step, destroy Darren's criminal empire.
Jaden in this part is torn between loyalty to Darren and an attempt to destroy him, what can end very badly for her. Any other character of this type of novel would already be in love with Darren and this mind-blowing sex that destroyed her for other men, that even if she returned to her boyfriend, life with him would be simply boring. In this book the author introduced Jason as a guy with real balls, who can really destroy Darren. In turn, Darren is a case of incredibly intelligent, psychopath diagnosed by Sid, who is perfectly able to control his emotions and reject them at the right moment, which makes him not susceptible to Jaden's attempts to bring him to her world. We also learn something about Darren's mother and the cause of her death. It turns out that the woman had the courage to try to save her sons from such a fate, but she did not succeed. However, Jaden wants to finish the work she has started and based on the end of this part, she can succeed. Like a Phoenix, Jaden rises from the ashes that Darren turned her, to become even stronger, more determined, and turns Darren's world into ashes. However, the author constantly proves that nothing can be taken for granted, so everything is possible. Will Jaden really put Darren's guard down? We will find out not very soon, because the last volume hasn't yet been written. Since each subsequent volume is getting better, what can we expect in the last one? Certainly, the author set the bar very high with this part. Marie, thank you for this amazing, emotional journey into the world of Jaden and Darren. I hope in the last part Darren will pay for everything hi did to Jaden. Although Darren, despite all he did for Jaden, sometimes also arouses positive emotions and I think, if he died I would have shed a tear. But I still support Jason. He has to win!
***
OMG, dawno nie czytałam tak dobrego, trzymającego w napięciu darka, tak pogrywającego na emocjach czytelnika i tak nieprzewidywalnego. Po spektakularnym zakończeniu poprzedniej części można się spodziewać, że Darren osiągnął swój cel: złamał Jaden, aby potem ją obudzić i ukształtować według swoich własnych pragnień, aby stała się królową jego podziemnego imperium. I nie przebiera w środkach, aby to osiągnąć, aby zawsze wzbudzać w Jaden lęk przed powrotem do piwnicy i niewyobrażalnym bólem. Trenuje ją na osobę, która jest w stanie sama się obronić i na każdym kroku ją testuje. Bo jako królowa przy jego boku będzie narażona na ataki jego wrogów. Wszyscy inni mają ja darzyć szacunkiem, ale nadal w hierarchii jest niżej od niego. Jednak chyba nie zdaje sobie sprawy z tego, że Jaden jest bardziej przebiegła, niż mu się wydaje. Kiedy Darren osiąga swój cel, czyniąc ją swoją żoną, Jaden nie ma za bardzo możliwości, aby się nie zgodzić, ale to otwiera jej okno na świat, wyrusza w podróż poślubną do Europy, spotykając na swej drodze zarówno sprzymierzeńców Darrena, jak i jego wrogów. I choć ona sama ma możliwość ucieczki, decyduje się pozostać, by powoli, krok po kroku niszczyć przestępcze imperium Darrena.
Jaden w tej części jest rozdarta między lojalnością wobec Darrena a próbą zniszczenia go, co może bardzo źle się dla niej skończyć. Każda inna bohaterka tego typu powieści już byłaby zakochana w Darrenie i tym nieziemskim seksie, który zniszczył ją dla innych mężczyzn, że nawet jakby wróciła do swojego chłopaka, to życie przy jego boku byłoby po prostu nudne. Tutaj autorka przedstawiła Jasona jako faceta z prawdziwymi jajami, który naprawdę jest w stanie zniszczyć Darrena. Z kolei Darren to zdiagnozowany przez Sida przypadek niesamowicie inteligentnego, psychopaty, który doskonale potrafi panować nad swoimi emocjami i odrzucać je w odpowiednim momencie, co czyni go niepodatnym na próby Jaden sprowadzenia go do jej świata. Ale co się dziwić po tym, jak został tak wychowany, kiedy dowiadujemy się, że w wieku kilkunastu lat zabił dziewięcioletnią dziewczynkę. Dowiadujemy się również co nieco o matce Darrena i przyczynie jej śmierci. Okazuje się, że kobietka miała w sobie pokłady odwagi , aby uratować synów przed takim losem, jednak jej się to nie udało. Jednak Jaden chce dokończyć dzieła, które rozpoczęła i patrząc na zakończenie tej części,może jej się to udać. Jak feniks odradza się z popiołów, w który obrócił ją Darren, by stać się jeszcze silniejsza, jeszcze bardziej zdeterminowana i obraca w popiół świat Darrena. Jednak autorka za każdym razem udowadnia, że niczego nie można uznać za pewnik, więc wszystko jest możliwe. Czy naprawdę uda się Jaden uśpić czujność przebiegłego Darrena? Nieprędko się dowiemy, bo ostatni tom jeszcze nie powstał. Skoro każdy kolejny tom jest coraz lepszy, czego możemy się spodziewać w ostatnim? Z pewnością tą częścią autorka zawiesiła poprzeczkę bardzo wysoko.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was starting to get a bit frustrated with the repetitive pattern and overall direction of the story especially in the last book and the first half of this one. But somehow, the author managed to redeem the entire thing in the final third of this book. The pacing, the logic, the action, it was brilliant.
I could genuinely feel the adrenaline and anticipation for the next book building inside me. I just hope we get a great ending and her well-deserved revenge. Honestly, I can’t wait to witness Darren’s misery and pain.

[Karen Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have not read the first three books of the Stronger Series than you need to do that RIGHT NOW. All of the books in this series have to be read in order NO EXCEPTION:

Now what you need to know before beginning Strike:

1. Congratulations you have just decided to read the best book of 2019 and it cost you less than $4.00 bucks!
2. Be prepared for the biggest book hangover of your life. Have other books ready to read in a completely different genre in your e-reader so that you don't want to toss them across the room when they aren't a fraction as good comparatively to Strike.
3. Take up a hobby like knitting or learn how to play chess. Anything that will help occupy your mind until the end of 2020 when the last book in the series Stand will be released. You will need support, possible therapy, to get through the waiting period but if Stand is a fraction as good as Strike was I've no doubt it will be worth the wait!.

You already know that Jaden is no shrinking violent. She is a smart mouth, take no prisoners, amazing martial artist trained in weapony and in Strike she levels ALL THE WAY UP and proves that she has no match - that is of course except for Darren. That is in part why he, a killing machine in his own right, is so obsessed with her. Their relationship is explored even more and their complicated feelings for one another analyzed by them both. Jaden's time in the basement - conditioning- is also told in flashbacks bringing an even more in-depth understanding of both of their psyches and Darren's remorseless cruelty. Strike explores what happens when all of Jaden's skills are put to the ultimate test as well as her feelings for him. By book end there will be no doubt (at least there shouldn't be) in the reader's mind where her loyalties will lie.

There are no words to do this series justice but I will tell you I felt the 4th book Strike physically from my head to my toes like an electrical current or lighting strike (no pun intended, or maybe it was😊) fell upon me. I stood and cheered and felt inspired to become a better version of myself inside and out as I watched Jaden become a Phoenix and rise from the ashes and burn down the world! I love strong women and she is a wonderful example of a woman thrown into hell and coming out of it a beautiful phoenix and Stronger!💖

Remember this series is NOT a romance but a dark erotic thriller with triggers galore. So do not expect the romance book formula one associates with that genre. But it is one of the most sublime reads I have ever experienced. And it is the first series that has inspired me to be physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually become a stronger woman - a phoenix.

Again, the last book in the series isn't coming out until the end of 2020 when Jay Marie a part-time law student can finish it. Until then I will continue on my own personal journey inspired by Jaden to grow, evolve and soar!

Lastly, a portion of the book's proceeds go to organizations that support human traffic victims. The author is very passionate about this cause and plans to become a human rights lawyer. I have learned so much about victims of human trafficking and this horrible enterprise because of this series.

[Cait · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. That is what this book left me thinking. Wow.

As the fourth book in this incredibly addicting series, I had high expectations of Jay Marie, and she didn't disappoint. This series is a force to be reckoned with, and not for the faint of heart. However, if you've held on through Jaden's sadness, fury and frustration in the first three books, the fourth is NOT going to disappoint.

A year after her first kill, Jaden has evolved into the strategic killing machine that Darren wished for, but he didn't fully know what he was getting into because as usual, he underestimated her. As Jaden dominates each and every challenge that comes her way, Darren is forced to reckon with the fact that his princess is worthy of the title of Queen.

Did we expect anything less? I know I didn't!

We also have the characters from the past brought back who add to the hope that blooms throughout Strike. You aren't left being frustrated at Jaden's situation, you are just rooting like hell that she'll continue to exercise her plan! She's truly diabolical. The expert resourcefulness that is woven throughout the book is one of my favorite things. Jay Marie stays true to both Jaden and Darren in both their strength and their intellect. The most impressive being the complete transformation Jaden has done during her year after the basement and how she changes in the short weeks after her wedding. Bravo.

Anyway, where Books 1-3 are Darren's time to shine and throw his weight around, Book 4 is where Jaden gets a taste of victory, and HOLY SHIT is it about time! I finally received hope that maybe, just maybe, Jaden will escape her psychopath of a husband, and tumble each and every domino in his empire. Only time (and another book) will tell, but I'm telling you that Strike is EVERYTHING I was waiting for after Stolen, Survival and Spark- and more.

Happy Reading!

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Stronger series had me hooked the first minute of the first book. Jay Marie knows how to right a deeply intriguing, wonderfully woven story about Jaden's trials, strengths, weaknesses, and rebirth. Strike was absolutely worth every minute of waiting for this release. If you think you are good at predicting the outcome of stories, and wanting something that keeps you on the edge of your seat than this is the series for you. We are reintroduced to the Jaden we all fell in love with during the first book. Closer than ever to finally seeing how Jaden can truly take down Darren's entire empower, and putting all the dominos in place to see them fall. The only terrible thing about devouring this latest book in the series is that the wait is back on to see where the path of war takes us.

[Denitra Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Survival of the Fittest!!

Once again Jay Marie has given us an explosive addition to this twisted tale of obsession, submission, acceptance and a long awaited retaliation. At the end of book 3, Jaden was broken, defeated. The perfect little companion for the sadistic a**hole aka Darren. In the beginning of this book that theme continues. Jaden remains his little princess; living only to make him happy. It's painful but understandable to read her compliance. She will do anything to avoid a repeat of the basement. As the story proceeds you realize Jaden has become a master manipulator. It's not until the last few chapters that her patience pays off. It becomes shockingly apparent that Darren has created the weapon of his own destruction. Long live the queen!!!

[William Winegarner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is truly phenomenal. As we continue to follow Jaden through her gut wrenching journey, Jay Marie doesn't tell you Jaden's story she shows you her story by making you see and feel everything. Strike is an all encompassing and riveting story that will absolutely leave you speechless and gasping for your next breath. This book exceeded all my expectations. Wonderful job Mrs Marie

[sabrina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Omg this book!!! I loved it so much! I’m so proud of Jaden, she’s probably one of my favorite badass characters! This story was so addicting and amazing. I couldn’t stop reading it! Jay is getting better and better! I really can’t wait to read the next book! I need it so much!! Jay’s writing is so good and beautiful.

Arc against honest review

[Kim Whitehead · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!! This series is unbelievable!! Awesome and exciting on all levels!! I have never been so consumed with a story like this! Freaking phenomenal and heart pounding! I mean definitely made for movies! So full of angst! Just explosive on all aspects! So action packed that my blood pressure went through the roof! Phew! I Need more!!!!

[◬❍Nastja❍◬ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Binged all four books in four days.
The hangover is gonna be something...
Copy/paste review for Book 1

Holy. Shit.
This is really dark.
It's also addictive as hell.
And NOT a romance.
But... it made me... feel things...

I'll be writing a lengthy review once I finish the whole series.
I need the last book ASAP...

★★★★★ stars

[Gosiaczeku · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG...Jay Marie... ur story getting bette and better with every book... Normally I would be bored after second book...but not with you... Jaden character is amazing...I am glad I found ur books... You are awesome writer!!

[Tisha Dininger · Rating 2 out of 5]

Complete lacking unbelievable

All the other books were good. This one was not! Completely unbelievable! Too rushed! The girl went from meak to a dammed war hero in one day! It's laughable!!!!

[Elenazdiary · Rating 2 out of 5]

- the only problem I had here is how unrealistic it is that a 5"3 girl would take down army of professional criminals. No matter how skilled, trained, unhinged, determined she is. These are unhinged criminals with guns

[Jennifer Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is the fifth book ready to be released...?

Because I. CANNOT. WAIT.... Holy guacamole! So intense. Cannot wait to see how all the clowns fall! This will be good...

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

She’s a fighter and I love it but fuck I would have given up😭he violated ode

[Christinax · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loooooved this last book.

Jay Marie—take all the time you need to finish the last one. I’m a patient reader (mostly), and after this? I trust the process.

Now, to be fair, I felt like books 2 and 3 dragged a bit. They were a little repetitive—emotionally and narratively—and honestly could’ve been one book. But still worth reading. The writing wasn’t as polished, but Jay Marie mentioned she was going through writer’s block, and honestly, you can see how much she’s evolved in this one. The difference is wild—in the best way.

And now… Darren.
I still f***** haaaaaate him. That man is a real psycho son of a bitch. I think this series might actually be curing me of my attraction to toxic bad boys. Slowly. Maybe. The dynamic between Jade and Darren is so disturbingly real it made me physically uncomfortable—and yes, I mean that as a compliment. I was suffering right along with her. The emotional manipulation, the tension, the mental warfare… 10/10 psychological chaos.

But what made this book hit different was Jade. She finally starts to get it. Starts learning from the wreckage of her past instead of just surviving it. You can feel her shedding old versions of herself, stepping into who she really is—strong, sharp, but FINALLY allows herself to be vulnerable. And that? That’s power.

The last two chapters? Absolutely wrecked me. I was roaring along Jade and I couldn’t stop reading…

What I loved in this book:
• Jade stepping into her badass era—but still allowing herself to feel.
• Darren. I STILL hate you. Throwing daggers. Setting curses. Whatever works.
• More Jade and Kayla scenes—we finally got the emotional depth I was craving.
• All the feelings. The writing was so much stronger. I’ve got half the book highlighted like it’s a personal diary.

Some quotes that destroyed me in the best way:

“Staring at Darren was comparable to the story of Icarus. If you stared too long, you’d get destroyed without even realizing the danger you were in.”

“She told me to go and tell my master that if he wants to know something, he should stop sending in his pawn for the queen to destroy.”

“Will is stronger. How else would battered women find the strength to leave the abusive husbands they still love?”

“Even if I’m safely tucked away in those shadows, there’s still one villain left lurking there – you.”

This book was raw, dark, and emotionally sharp in all the right ways. I’m still processing. Still haunted. And somehow still ready for more.

Bring on the finale—I’ll be here. Waiting. Judging Darren. Loving Jade. Highlighting more emotional damage.