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Combative #3
Destructive
Some villains are made.
Some villains are born.
And some villains aren’t villains at all.
Nate DeLuca was born into a life he didn’t want.
Forced to walk a path that was already chosen for him.
Grandson to a mob boss, he’s forever torn between his duty, his honor, his legacy, and the truth.
But the truth is never simple, and it’s not at all what it seems.
In a world full of secrets, heartache, and betrayals, Nate only has one thing on his mind: redemption.
But with redemption comes destruction.
And that destruction might cost him his heart.
***
Three Lives.
Two Loves.
One ticking time bomb…
Tick tock.
Some villains are born.
And some villains aren’t villains at all.
Nate DeLuca was born into a life he didn’t want.
Forced to walk a path that was already chosen for him.
Grandson to a mob boss, he’s forever torn between his duty, his honor, his legacy, and the truth.
But the truth is never simple, and it’s not at all what it seems.
In a world full of secrets, heartache, and betrayals, Nate only has one thing on his mind: redemption.
But with redemption comes destruction.
And that destruction might cost him his heart.
***
Three Lives.
Two Loves.
One ticking time bomb…
Tick tock.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2020
175 people are currently reading
1976 people want to read
About the author
Jay McLean
38 books8,184 followersJay McLean is an international best-selling author and full-time reader, writer of New Adult and Young Adult romance, and skilled procrastinator. When she’s not doing any of those things, she can be found running after her three little boys, investing way too much time on True Crime Documentaries and binge-watching reality TV.
She writes what she loves to read, which are books that can make her laugh, make her hurt and make her feel.
Jay lives in the suburbs of Melbourne, Australia, in her dream home where music is loud and laughter is louder.
She writes what she loves to read, which are books that can make her laugh, make her hurt and make her feel.
Jay lives in the suburbs of Melbourne, Australia, in her dream home where music is loud and laughter is louder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews
January 1, 2020
5+ stars
This book is one I've been waiting for for YEARS. I read the first book in this series in May of 2015, so it's been a while, but let me tell you... It was so worth the wait! I loved it so much that when I finished it in late December, I rearranged all my top reads of the year and put it in the top 3. It was that good.
Nate is one of my favorite characters Jay has ever written and this book just solidified that. He's not perfect, but I believe he does the best with the hand he was dealt in life. Bailey is amazing, too. She's so strong and as insane as her life has been, she's still a light. The time Nate and Bailey spend together in 'Redemptive' is an unconventional way to fall in love, but they did.
Some time has passed, but the feelings they have haven't changed. There is SO MUCH I want to say about this book. So much I want to talk about, but honestly, it's so convoluted between all three books that it's impossible to do so unless you've read all three. I will say I loved this book, I love this couple, and I really love Tiny. He's the true MVP of this book. I couldn't have loved him, and his bromance with Nate more.
This is the trilogy to read. It's so passionate, intense, romantic, and suspenseful. Jay's writing is perfection and her character building is out of this world. Everything ties together in this book. All your questions will be answered and everything will come together seamlessly. This story is epic, it's flawless, and it needs to be read. If you haven't jumped on board yet, start with 'Combative' and enjoy the ride!
Every day, we rise.
This book is one I've been waiting for for YEARS. I read the first book in this series in May of 2015, so it's been a while, but let me tell you... It was so worth the wait! I loved it so much that when I finished it in late December, I rearranged all my top reads of the year and put it in the top 3. It was that good.
Nate is one of my favorite characters Jay has ever written and this book just solidified that. He's not perfect, but I believe he does the best with the hand he was dealt in life. Bailey is amazing, too. She's so strong and as insane as her life has been, she's still a light. The time Nate and Bailey spend together in 'Redemptive' is an unconventional way to fall in love, but they did.
Twenty-seven years of life and the only living I ever really did was with her.
Some time has passed, but the feelings they have haven't changed. There is SO MUCH I want to say about this book. So much I want to talk about, but honestly, it's so convoluted between all three books that it's impossible to do so unless you've read all three. I will say I loved this book, I love this couple, and I really love Tiny. He's the true MVP of this book. I couldn't have loved him, and his bromance with Nate more.
This is the trilogy to read. It's so passionate, intense, romantic, and suspenseful. Jay's writing is perfection and her character building is out of this world. Everything ties together in this book. All your questions will be answered and everything will come together seamlessly. This story is epic, it's flawless, and it needs to be read. If you haven't jumped on board yet, start with 'Combative' and enjoy the ride!
Maybe it started with Bailey. Maybe Bailey’s the beginning and Bailey’s the end.
January 11, 2020
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
I walk away, fighting against my craving to be near her. Because my mind knows it as much as my heart does…that I’d rather die a thousand deaths beside her than live a single day without.
”DESTRUCTIVE”, the third and final installment of Jay McLean’s ”Combative” series, was gut-wrenchingly angsty, and at times I wanted to step away from it for fear of having my heart shattered into a million pieces. What I can say to those of you who have waited three years to find out what happened after the huge cliffhanger ending of ”REDEMPTIVE” is that you will not be disappointed. I am once again in awe of this amazingly gifted author. I never thought I would enjoy a mafia themed story but this one was absolutely phenomenal and Nate DeLuca is up there as one of my most treasured Jay McLean Heroes. If you haven’t picked up this series yet—now is the time!
All my questions were answered and then some. There’s so much going on in this last installment that you have to pay close attention or you could end up missing some important clues.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5+++++++
Heroine: 5
Plot: 5+++++++
Angst: 5+++++
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
”DESTRUCTIVE” releases on January 6th! This is yet another Jay McLean series that is sure to be a hit with all of her loyal fans.
AMAZON: https://amzn.to/2Qsx0kN
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
I walk away, fighting against my craving to be near her. Because my mind knows it as much as my heart does…that I’d rather die a thousand deaths beside her than live a single day without.
”DESTRUCTIVE”, the third and final installment of Jay McLean’s ”Combative” series, was gut-wrenchingly angsty, and at times I wanted to step away from it for fear of having my heart shattered into a million pieces. What I can say to those of you who have waited three years to find out what happened after the huge cliffhanger ending of ”REDEMPTIVE” is that you will not be disappointed. I am once again in awe of this amazingly gifted author. I never thought I would enjoy a mafia themed story but this one was absolutely phenomenal and Nate DeLuca is up there as one of my most treasured Jay McLean Heroes. If you haven’t picked up this series yet—now is the time!
All my questions were answered and then some. There’s so much going on in this last installment that you have to pay close attention or you could end up missing some important clues.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5+++++++
Heroine: 5
Plot: 5+++++++
Angst: 5+++++
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
”DESTRUCTIVE” releases on January 6th! This is yet another Jay McLean series that is sure to be a hit with all of her loyal fans.
AMAZON: https://amzn.to/2Qsx0kN
December 30, 2019
5 TINY TACO SHELLS!!
DESTRUCTIVE: Is the third and final, full length book in the Combative Trilogy. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.'
I don't even know how to go about the writing up of this review!! But what a BANG to leave 2019 with..
Three Lives.
Two Loves.
One ticking time bomb…
Tick tock.
AND SO THE STORY BEGINS..
Nates family tree within the mafia organisation can be traced back to his nonno who was the original Don. The Godfather, making Nates mother a princess and crowning him a prince in their world. They were Mafia..Even though Nate didn't sign up for this lifestyle..It was in his blood..
AND IT ALL LEADS TO ONE GIRL..BAILEY...
The Tile counting girl held captive in a basement. To understand this story, you have to go back, back to where it all began, it's dark, it's gritty and it will have you sitting on the edge of your seat..
“I feel like I need to find a way to forgive him.
Because I feel like he won't be around long enough to forgive himself.”
My heart is FULL!! The wait was well worth it!! I literally inhaled this, throughout as I sat there, a constant chant going off in in my head, one more chapter then I'll get up and do my shit that needs doing, chapter by chapter that same chant like groundhog day repeated over and over because this book was just too good to put down!! This book was EVERYTHING!! God I love this authors words!! I am so glad she took the time to give us epic, it wasn't rushed, she didn't release something half assed, this book rounded the whole series up PERFECTLY!! She gave us her ALL!!
A TWIST that stopped my heart, I didn't want to carry on, like what was the point, my heart was broken, there was no coming back from that, BUT after pulling my big girls panties up I finished, and all those curse words I yelled at the author in my head I'm sorry not sorry..
All good things must come to an end, and I am so happy with the outcome!! LOVED
I'm just sad that I'd held these characters in my hands for such a short time, they crawled in my heart yet again, I may have closed out that last page but they will forever leave a stamp on my heart.
Like her 'More' series this one will be getting the same treatment of many rereads to be had in my future!!
This series comes highly recommended!! Seriously you won't regret one clicking this!!
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
Want to read
March 14, 2016I NEED A DATE!!! Someone give me a dateeeeeeeeee!!!!
Nate, Ky, Bailee, Tiny, Aroma??? Pleaseeeeee.
I NEED IT!!!!!!!
Nate, Ky, Bailee, Tiny, Aroma??? Pleaseeeeee.
I NEED IT!!!!!!!
January 6, 2020
I always feel extremely cliche saying that Jay McLean has done it again, but seriously you guys, JAY MCLEAN HAS DONE IT AGAIN. Most of us have been waiting an admittedly long time for this book. We were so invested in this series that we have been pestering this woman non-stop demanding some answers. Well, I will say that the wait was worth it. Waiting for her characters to speak to her was WELL FREAKING WORTH IT.
I promised that I wouldn’t spoil anything, so I can’t go into too much detail, but I can say that this book is going to wreck you before it mends you. You’re going to feel the full spectrum of emotions with this one. You will be angry, but honestly the emotional pain is worth it, because this story is just so damn good.
Destructive is part three in the Combative series. If you plan to read this book you MUST read Combative and Redemptive prior to starting it. Also, grab some tissues, a fan, some snacks, and a friend for emotional support, because you’re going to need it.
Available NOW!
*ARC
I promised that I wouldn’t spoil anything, so I can’t go into too much detail, but I can say that this book is going to wreck you before it mends you. You’re going to feel the full spectrum of emotions with this one. You will be angry, but honestly the emotional pain is worth it, because this story is just so damn good.
Destructive is part three in the Combative series. If you plan to read this book you MUST read Combative and Redemptive prior to starting it. Also, grab some tissues, a fan, some snacks, and a friend for emotional support, because you’re going to need it.
Available NOW!
*ARC
January 5, 2020
***6 "To love freely!!!" stars***
...EVERY DAY WE RISE...
This story destroyed me for good!!!!
My heart was shattering in million pieces through out the entire book, but thank God that Jay pieced me back together and she left a huge smile on my face!!!
Honestly, guys!!! This story will be one that I'm gonna savor for the rest of my life!!!
Yes, i cried a lot in here and i cried very ugly, but it was worth it!!!!
Every second worth it!!!!
"I'd never had to wonder what it felt like to have a broken heart.
I was born with one.
Live with one."
After the second book, i have to confess that i was torn really bad...
Nate, Bailey... Madison, Kyler didn't deserve any of what they went through...
And the possibilities of how this story could ended were endless... And of course, i had a preference and even though, the feeling was strong, i was feeling bad for the other part...
But Jay took a big turn of events in the third book and i couldn't believe what was happening after all!!!
"We're all pawns... Every single one of us."
"Maybe it started with Bailey. Maybe Bailey’s the beginning and Bailey’s the end."
"I needed to keep my distance.
It was best for everyone.
Or maybe not everyone.
Just her."
I don't know how much i can say for the story without betraying serious informations, so i'll prefer not to say much!!!
Nate, Bailey and Kyler's lives are interwined together in a cruel game, and how are they going to survive when their hearts are bleeding for many reasons???
How they will find their way out of darkness???
Who will win and who will lose??? And what will be the ultimate sacrifice???
"I walk away, fighting against my craving to be near her. Because my mind knows it as much as my heart does…that I’d rather die a thousand deaths beside her than live a single day without."
“I feel like I need to find a way to forgive him.
Because I feel like he won't be around long enough to forgive himself.”
Even though i loved many characters in here, my most favorite of them all is Nate...
Nate is a misunderstood man... A good man who fate made him bad... He is a man that is commited deeply to the ones that he loves and his pain through this book felt like my own...
I just love him. Period. With all the good and the bad....
"Twenty-seven years of life and the only living I ever really did was with her.
"I knew it then -in those minuscule moments we shared- my heart, my soul, my everything belonged to her.
Per sempre. Forever."
Bailey's fate was the worst of them all...
She got through so many shitty things in her life... He was a captive over and over again...
But once upon a time, she fell in love with a boy, but that love was hidden under the sun and she just wants to forget all the ugliness in her life and to live and love freely...
She deserves it after all...
"It wasn't supposed to hurt like this... I want to hate you so much... But you're so deep in my fucking head, and I can't shake it. I can't shake you."
"You want to love freely... And you deserve that, Bailey. You deserve it all."
Kyler was a good, but very angry man... He had also his reasons...
And he needed a distraction of his lonely life and a girl made him want to live again... fully!!!
He was an innocent, but he had to play his part too... But with what cost???
"Parker and I, we're more alike than I want to admit."
"I don't want to be here.
I don't want to be sitting opposite a man who continually cracks my heart open... while sitting next to a man who could potentially heal it."
I really loved how the author played out this story, even though it was soooo complicated...
But i think that was its charm!!!!
I loved the characters unconditionaly and i hurt for them...
I loved how she finally turned out the story so right... It was needed for the things to become like that!!!
After the destruction to come redemption!!!!
"We can go anywhere... Anywhere in the world, Nate. Where do you want to go?"
"You."
"But... I'm not a place."
"You are to me."
"Ti amo, mio bellissimo ragazzo spezzato." I love you, my beautiful broken boy.
Oh!!! Before i close my review, i would love to reffer some other character that i loved fiercely!!!
God, Tiny!!! You were sent from heaven!!!
You were the most loyal friend that ever existed and i loved how fiercely protective you were for Nate and his significants....
You were a good friend, a brother and your connection with Nathaniel was sooo beautiful and unique!!!!
"You ever wonder what your life would be if you hadn't met me?"
"Nah... I wouldn't have lived a life worthy of anything if you didn't come along."
******************************************
"You know what the most beautiful thing is?...
It's that regardless of how destroyed we all are, how damaged our actions have left us... our world fell apart right in front of our eyes, crumbled to ashes, and yet we stand. As survivors, we stand hand in hand, and we rise. We rise from the ashes because we have a purpose. And that purpose might be something so simple as making someone smile or showing someone color or hugging someone because you know they need it. Or that purpose could be bigger than ourselves, bigger than we ever expected."
******************************************
***ARC was provided for the exchange of an honest review. Thank you.***
...EVERY DAY WE RISE...
This story destroyed me for good!!!!
My heart was shattering in million pieces through out the entire book, but thank God that Jay pieced me back together and she left a huge smile on my face!!!
Honestly, guys!!! This story will be one that I'm gonna savor for the rest of my life!!!
Yes, i cried a lot in here and i cried very ugly, but it was worth it!!!!
Every second worth it!!!!
"I'd never had to wonder what it felt like to have a broken heart.
I was born with one.
Live with one."
After the second book, i have to confess that i was torn really bad...
Nate, Bailey... Madison, Kyler didn't deserve any of what they went through...
And the possibilities of how this story could ended were endless... And of course, i had a preference and even though, the feeling was strong, i was feeling bad for the other part...
But Jay took a big turn of events in the third book and i couldn't believe what was happening after all!!!
"We're all pawns... Every single one of us."
"Maybe it started with Bailey. Maybe Bailey’s the beginning and Bailey’s the end."
"I needed to keep my distance.
It was best for everyone.
Or maybe not everyone.
Just her."
I don't know how much i can say for the story without betraying serious informations, so i'll prefer not to say much!!!
Nate, Bailey and Kyler's lives are interwined together in a cruel game, and how are they going to survive when their hearts are bleeding for many reasons???
How they will find their way out of darkness???
Who will win and who will lose??? And what will be the ultimate sacrifice???
"I walk away, fighting against my craving to be near her. Because my mind knows it as much as my heart does…that I’d rather die a thousand deaths beside her than live a single day without."
“I feel like I need to find a way to forgive him.
Because I feel like he won't be around long enough to forgive himself.”
Even though i loved many characters in here, my most favorite of them all is Nate...
Nate is a misunderstood man... A good man who fate made him bad... He is a man that is commited deeply to the ones that he loves and his pain through this book felt like my own...
I just love him. Period. With all the good and the bad....
"Twenty-seven years of life and the only living I ever really did was with her.
"I knew it then -in those minuscule moments we shared- my heart, my soul, my everything belonged to her.
Per sempre. Forever."
Bailey's fate was the worst of them all...
She got through so many shitty things in her life... He was a captive over and over again...
But once upon a time, she fell in love with a boy, but that love was hidden under the sun and she just wants to forget all the ugliness in her life and to live and love freely...
She deserves it after all...
"It wasn't supposed to hurt like this... I want to hate you so much... But you're so deep in my fucking head, and I can't shake it. I can't shake you."
"You want to love freely... And you deserve that, Bailey. You deserve it all."
Kyler was a good, but very angry man... He had also his reasons...
And he needed a distraction of his lonely life and a girl made him want to live again... fully!!!
He was an innocent, but he had to play his part too... But with what cost???
"Parker and I, we're more alike than I want to admit."
"I don't want to be here.
I don't want to be sitting opposite a man who continually cracks my heart open... while sitting next to a man who could potentially heal it."
I really loved how the author played out this story, even though it was soooo complicated...
But i think that was its charm!!!!
I loved the characters unconditionaly and i hurt for them...
I loved how she finally turned out the story so right... It was needed for the things to become like that!!!
After the destruction to come redemption!!!!
"We can go anywhere... Anywhere in the world, Nate. Where do you want to go?"
"You."
"But... I'm not a place."
"You are to me."
"Ti amo, mio bellissimo ragazzo spezzato." I love you, my beautiful broken boy.
Oh!!! Before i close my review, i would love to reffer some other character that i loved fiercely!!!
God, Tiny!!! You were sent from heaven!!!
You were the most loyal friend that ever existed and i loved how fiercely protective you were for Nate and his significants....
You were a good friend, a brother and your connection with Nathaniel was sooo beautiful and unique!!!!
"You ever wonder what your life would be if you hadn't met me?"
"Nah... I wouldn't have lived a life worthy of anything if you didn't come along."
******************************************
"You know what the most beautiful thing is?...
It's that regardless of how destroyed we all are, how damaged our actions have left us... our world fell apart right in front of our eyes, crumbled to ashes, and yet we stand. As survivors, we stand hand in hand, and we rise. We rise from the ashes because we have a purpose. And that purpose might be something so simple as making someone smile or showing someone color or hugging someone because you know they need it. Or that purpose could be bigger than ourselves, bigger than we ever expected."
******************************************
***ARC was provided for the exchange of an honest review. Thank you.***
January 22, 2020
I reread the first and second books, because I didn’t remember all story, and I thought the female character was so pathetic and slow...
Well, meanwhile I started this book, I had some breakdowns and was being really mad at the author. WTF? How could she?
BUT I didn’t see this coming, PERFECT.
It’s worth the reading!!!!
Well, meanwhile I started this book, I had some breakdowns and was being really mad at the author. WTF? How could she?
BUT I didn’t see this coming, PERFECT.
It’s worth the reading!!!!
February 27, 2021
I'm not crying you are 😭😭💕
January 6, 2020
I’m not quite sure how to write this review without giving anything away. Jay McLean stole my heart so long ago and she’s held a part of it since then. With every word and every book, I’m more than in love with every word she writes.
I never know where the road will take me and even though her words should be more than enough, I’m always left wanting more—the heartache and hope she delivers kicks you in the gut, yet you’re always reminded of that first and forever love. So you push through, then you coast and you fall. Hard.
The Combative trilogy had me glued to my kindle. I couldn’t sleep, couldn’t function—I’ve been living in a world with these characters for days and my heart is bursting.
These books were a bit different then what I’m used to from Jay. A bit more darkness, more intrigue, more suspense. Twists and turns you didn’t see coming and a whole lot of heart palpitations (get that paper bag ready)—but there is a message with every book she writes.
Love. Hope. Healing. It fills you till you’re heart is ready to burst and aches from the pain the characters endure.
The writing is flawless—the characters, the angst, the intricacy of the trilogy and how it flows. Just pure brilliance.
This is by far one of the best trilogies I’ve ever read and Jay McLean has proved to me—again—why she’s on my list of top authors of all time. Phenomenal from start to finish.
Eleventy-three million stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I never know where the road will take me and even though her words should be more than enough, I’m always left wanting more—the heartache and hope she delivers kicks you in the gut, yet you’re always reminded of that first and forever love. So you push through, then you coast and you fall. Hard.
The Combative trilogy had me glued to my kindle. I couldn’t sleep, couldn’t function—I’ve been living in a world with these characters for days and my heart is bursting.
These books were a bit different then what I’m used to from Jay. A bit more darkness, more intrigue, more suspense. Twists and turns you didn’t see coming and a whole lot of heart palpitations (get that paper bag ready)—but there is a message with every book she writes.
Love. Hope. Healing. It fills you till you’re heart is ready to burst and aches from the pain the characters endure.
The writing is flawless—the characters, the angst, the intricacy of the trilogy and how it flows. Just pure brilliance.
This is by far one of the best trilogies I’ve ever read and Jay McLean has proved to me—again—why she’s on my list of top authors of all time. Phenomenal from start to finish.
Eleventy-three million stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 17, 2021
Perfection ❤️
I don't think I've read a series quite like this in ages where I've felt such a riot of emotions.
The combative series is perfection ❤️
I don't think I've read a series quite like this in ages where I've felt such a riot of emotions.
The combative series is perfection ❤️
January 9, 2020
Disappointing - spoilers
We waited a long time for this. It seems silly to me that she wrote a whole book for Kyler to only have him mentioned a couple of times. I wasn't thrilled with the aspect of reading a love triangle between two men that I liked but then to not even have one of them really mentioned AND have it turn out to be a love triangle between them and a new character that he's clear about not loving. Then he does love her and they have sex. But no wait, he doesnt, and she is so so understanding and that's the end of her story. The author went on too many different directions in this book that would have been better in 2 different books.
We waited a long time for this. It seems silly to me that she wrote a whole book for Kyler to only have him mentioned a couple of times. I wasn't thrilled with the aspect of reading a love triangle between two men that I liked but then to not even have one of them really mentioned AND have it turn out to be a love triangle between them and a new character that he's clear about not loving. Then he does love her and they have sex. But no wait, he doesnt, and she is so so understanding and that's the end of her story. The author went on too many different directions in this book that would have been better in 2 different books.
January 6, 2020
3.5 it made me feel and I shed tears but there is stuff that I didn’t like too.
Can we get a great ending/epilogue. 😐
Can we get a great ending/epilogue. 😐
February 28, 2021
this was honestly so disappointing I hated how both H and h had fallen in love with others it completely tainted the story. ESPECIALLY Especially how much Nate loved Ashton. She was such a big part of his life, and he cared deeply for her. I don’t know if the author added her in so it would even the playing field and Bailey wouldn’t be the only one who was with another person.. but kyler was a non factor in this book. Ashton and Nate marriage and the way he talked about her and told her everything she had a piece of his heart .. when Nate ‘died’ and Bailey went to Nates home ( shared with Ashton), and had to ask for permission to take things belonging to Nate. It was like bailey was the side piece in Nates life honestly.
Bailey showed by the end that she’d always choose Nate over Kyler, always. She could’ve been with Kyler when she thought Nate died but she didn’t, to me that showed her love .
But Nate didn’t even let Bailey know he faked his death he told all the ppl he loved in his life, but her? This man actually let her grieve his death after he already abandoned her once before. He also said he wasn’t planning on finding her after his WP was up.. I’m not convinced of his love for her at all. In the second book I was but throughout this book their love story was ruined for me.
They got together the last 3 pages? 2? And it was so forgettable. Bailey had no reaction for someone who basically is witnessing the dead rise from their grave. She just was happy to see him like?? Anyways..
I’m so disappointed bc I reread the first two books bc I read this series way back when it was released all for it to be such a waste of time.
Bailey showed by the end that she’d always choose Nate over Kyler, always. She could’ve been with Kyler when she thought Nate died but she didn’t, to me that showed her love .
But Nate didn’t even let Bailey know he faked his death he told all the ppl he loved in his life, but her? This man actually let her grieve his death after he already abandoned her once before. He also said he wasn’t planning on finding her after his WP was up.. I’m not convinced of his love for her at all. In the second book I was but throughout this book their love story was ruined for me.
They got together the last 3 pages? 2? And it was so forgettable. Bailey had no reaction for someone who basically is witnessing the dead rise from their grave. She just was happy to see him like?? Anyways..
I’m so disappointed bc I reread the first two books bc I read this series way back when it was released all for it to be such a waste of time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2020
I’m not even sure that I can wax eloquently with this review, but I will try and get a few words out. Wow..just wow!! Did Jay McLean do it or what?! What a wild and crazy ride! I am shook. If you want something dark and edgy, then this trilogy is for you. Totally different than anything I’ve ever read from Jay, and I love it! I love books that have insane twists and turns, and this one totally threw me for a loop. I loveeee Nate, and Bailey. Such strong characters, and the romance. It was a slow burn at first, but once it got there, boom! There goes the flames. I’m still processing so I don’t feel I’ve done this trilogy justice.
Just know this. Read these books. The End. <3
Just know this. Read these books. The End. <3
August 25, 2020
I read the first two books in the series all the back in 2016 and the closure wasn't at all what I expected.
Book one in the series tells Madison and Kyler's story, two people who have secrets and yet managed to find some sort of comfort in each other.
Book two tells the story of Bailey (Madison from book one) and Nate. I must admit that the story did bother me, however I gave it a high rating because I thought it was well written and told.
And then we get to this book, the last in the series that took a long time to be published and I have to say that I was a little more than disappointed.
Third book pretty much ignores everything that went down in book one. The love story between two broken people that the author spent an entire book trying to sell as true love was tossed under the carpet as if it were nothing. Kyler became a tertiary character in this story, someone who was obviously there just to fill a gap.
The part that bothers me most is the Stockholm Syndrome that Bailey obviously suffers from, something that is ignored by all characters except a police officer. Everything that happened in book two, the way Bailey was held captive by Nate (apparently for her own good) is taken as an epic love story and not as the problem it should be seen as. Nate, despite the author's attempts, is not a guy who does everything in his power to protect the people around him. On the contrary, he is selfish responding solely and exclusively to his impulses for revenge. His long-awaited redemption is far from satisfactory. The ending is anticlimactic to the max and the love between him and Bailey is not convincing at all, it feel much more like an obsession from both parts.
I give it a three stars rating because of the memory I hold of the two previous books, the first one much more than the second. However I wouldn't dare to read them again. I'm sure 19 year old had a very different take on things and she was much more willing to accept things than 2020 me.
Book one in the series tells Madison and Kyler's story, two people who have secrets and yet managed to find some sort of comfort in each other.
Book two tells the story of Bailey (Madison from book one) and Nate. I must admit that the story did bother me, however I gave it a high rating because I thought it was well written and told.
And then we get to this book, the last in the series that took a long time to be published and I have to say that I was a little more than disappointed.
Third book pretty much ignores everything that went down in book one. The love story between two broken people that the author spent an entire book trying to sell as true love was tossed under the carpet as if it were nothing. Kyler became a tertiary character in this story, someone who was obviously there just to fill a gap.
The part that bothers me most is the Stockholm Syndrome that Bailey obviously suffers from, something that is ignored by all characters except a police officer. Everything that happened in book two, the way Bailey was held captive by Nate (apparently for her own good) is taken as an epic love story and not as the problem it should be seen as. Nate, despite the author's attempts, is not a guy who does everything in his power to protect the people around him. On the contrary, he is selfish responding solely and exclusively to his impulses for revenge. His long-awaited redemption is far from satisfactory. The ending is anticlimactic to the max and the love between him and Bailey is not convincing at all, it feel much more like an obsession from both parts.
I give it a three stars rating because of the memory I hold of the two previous books, the first one much more than the second. However I wouldn't dare to read them again. I'm sure 19 year old had a very different take on things and she was much more willing to accept things than 2020 me.
January 6, 2020
So, here’s the thing... I am going into 2020 with the biggest book hangover of my existence.
There.
I said it.
I planned on this year being ‘THE YEAR’ I get back into the swing of reading ALL the books the world has to offer. I haven’t read many books at all over the past year, because life got in the way, I did enjoy some rereads here and there, a few fantastic new books, but that is it. I’ve missed it and so here I’ve been, adding so many books to my note pad that I can tick off once completed etc etc...
Well it turns out, Jay McLean had other plans for me when she blew my body, heart and soul to pieces when she delivered what can only be described as a literary phenomenon. Destructive- the third and final instalment of the Combative trilogy is “the book of the year.”
I’m so invested in this finale that Jay has crafted which may I add, not only blew any expectations I had, but actually destroyed me. I had so many questions from Combative and Redemptive. I had so many thoughts over everything, I was foolish enough to sit here trying to guess what would happen... but nothing I could have conjured up in my head would have ever been valid because what Jay has written is truly OUT OF THIS WORLD.
The twists, the turns, the emotions I felt from beginning to end, UGHHHH, I just can’t even function.
The characters, MY GOD, I’ll never get over them. EVER. The character depths and development only add to Jay’s never ending skill and I couldn’t be happier with how this trilogy concluded. BRAVO MCLEAN , BRAVO!
FIVE + STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
There.
I said it.
I planned on this year being ‘THE YEAR’ I get back into the swing of reading ALL the books the world has to offer. I haven’t read many books at all over the past year, because life got in the way, I did enjoy some rereads here and there, a few fantastic new books, but that is it. I’ve missed it and so here I’ve been, adding so many books to my note pad that I can tick off once completed etc etc...
Well it turns out, Jay McLean had other plans for me when she blew my body, heart and soul to pieces when she delivered what can only be described as a literary phenomenon. Destructive- the third and final instalment of the Combative trilogy is “the book of the year.”
I’m so invested in this finale that Jay has crafted which may I add, not only blew any expectations I had, but actually destroyed me. I had so many questions from Combative and Redemptive. I had so many thoughts over everything, I was foolish enough to sit here trying to guess what would happen... but nothing I could have conjured up in my head would have ever been valid because what Jay has written is truly OUT OF THIS WORLD.
The twists, the turns, the emotions I felt from beginning to end, UGHHHH, I just can’t even function.
The characters, MY GOD, I’ll never get over them. EVER. The character depths and development only add to Jay’s never ending skill and I couldn’t be happier with how this trilogy concluded. BRAVO MCLEAN , BRAVO!
FIVE + STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 31, 2021
I'm 𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒑𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 about this book... I wish this was not written at all. The narrative went in a different direction, the funny thing is she wrote a whole book about Kyle and Madison romance - just for nothing, Kyle's character has suited to an afterthought, his portrayal, become glossed over.
The 𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐞 should help me to feel something primarily for Nate's character arc but rather feel nothing, not even sad about it. I may be more satisfied if this was just a Duet, not a Trilogy. I was so bored with the last 2 books, it not needed to be dragged on... Tbh I dunno what's the purpose of this book? Is it for closure? Second chance? I feel like I missed something regarding the plot and storytelling.
I rarely write reviews with low ratings, and if I just know back then that this book is so bad, and knowing that this is written by one of my favourite romance authors, to say at least I'm overwhelmed.
But it's alright, I'm still a big fan of 𝐉𝐚𝐲 𝐌𝐜𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐧, will read her books and continue to support her future works.💖
Let's normalised book/s that are poorly written. They're just human like everybody else's.
The 𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐞 should help me to feel something primarily for Nate's character arc but rather feel nothing, not even sad about it. I may be more satisfied if this was just a Duet, not a Trilogy. I was so bored with the last 2 books, it not needed to be dragged on... Tbh I dunno what's the purpose of this book? Is it for closure? Second chance? I feel like I missed something regarding the plot and storytelling.
I rarely write reviews with low ratings, and if I just know back then that this book is so bad, and knowing that this is written by one of my favourite romance authors, to say at least I'm overwhelmed.
But it's alright, I'm still a big fan of 𝐉𝐚𝐲 𝐌𝐜𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐧, will read her books and continue to support her future works.💖
Let's normalised book/s that are poorly written. They're just human like everybody else's.
January 2, 2020
Listen, I'm not even sure what to say! This series will completely own you in every way! The thing is, it's NOTHING like I was expecting! It hit me so hard emotionally.
Destructive is DEEP on every level. It's smart, suspenseful, intense, heart wrenching, absorbing, edgy, dark, tragic, and immensly emotionally charged! Holy shit if you really sit and think about this series as a whole, IT WILL BLOW YOUR DAMN MIND!! Each meticulous piece, the phenomenal characters, the plot, the twists!! I started Destructive thinking I knew how I felt and I was 110% wrong because I came out of it with a totally different mind set!
Nate literally gives me heart palpitations, I can't even think about him and Bailey without getting wrecked, this is absolutely my FAVORITE book of the whole series! Jay has proven again to be an incredibly intelligent, imaginative and clutch author!!
Destructive is DEEP on every level. It's smart, suspenseful, intense, heart wrenching, absorbing, edgy, dark, tragic, and immensly emotionally charged! Holy shit if you really sit and think about this series as a whole, IT WILL BLOW YOUR DAMN MIND!! Each meticulous piece, the phenomenal characters, the plot, the twists!! I started Destructive thinking I knew how I felt and I was 110% wrong because I came out of it with a totally different mind set!
Nate literally gives me heart palpitations, I can't even think about him and Bailey without getting wrecked, this is absolutely my FAVORITE book of the whole series! Jay has proven again to be an incredibly intelligent, imaginative and clutch author!!
January 17, 2021
“Regardless of how destroyed we all are, how damaged our actions have left us… our world fell apart right in front of our eyes, crumbled to ashes, and yet we stand.
5 incredible stars!
OMG, THIS BOOK! What a read! What an exciting, gritty, angsty, dramatic, complex and gorgeously romantic read! After finishing off book #2 in the series, Redemptive, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one, but Jay McLean gave me everything I wanted – without me even knowing what that was - and this book is the perfect closure to this unique and amazing story.
This book is not a standalone. It’s a direct continuation from the first two books, so make sure you’ve read those first. And don’t even think about looking for spoilers for this book, just dive in blind and enjoy the story as it was meant to be experienced. So this review is going to be vague.
Redemptive took us back in time, well now we’re back in the almost-present where Ky and Madison, Nate and Bailey’s stories come together, and oh holy God, I wasn’t ready. We get to see these characters like we haven’t seen them before, and we learn so much more about them, and it’s exciting, unpredictable, beautiful and gutwrenching all at the same time.
I couldn't turn the pages fast enough, but there was a point where I had to put my kindle down, literally too scared to go on, not ready for the emotional slaughter that I sensed was coming, and OMG, the feels! I read parts of this book with tears streaming down my face – happy tears, sad tears, angry tears and healing tears. I felt everything along with the characters, and it was such an amazing ride.
McLean keeps you guessing, never sure where the story is going or what to expect. She throws in some huge curveballs and adds a whole new dimension to the series which is really clever. And while it’s tumultuous at the time, looking back, the story played out exactly how it had to. It hurt when I was in the middle of it, but it’s right for the characters and their journeys, and I was completely satisfied with how it all ended up.
With fantastic characters (old and new), wonderful character development, and a story that kept me captivated, this is an emotionally intense story of family, friendship, love, pain, suffering and redemption, and a romance that completely owned my heart. I loved this book so much.
5 huge stars!
5 incredible stars!
OMG, THIS BOOK! What a read! What an exciting, gritty, angsty, dramatic, complex and gorgeously romantic read! After finishing off book #2 in the series, Redemptive, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one, but Jay McLean gave me everything I wanted – without me even knowing what that was - and this book is the perfect closure to this unique and amazing story.
This book is not a standalone. It’s a direct continuation from the first two books, so make sure you’ve read those first. And don’t even think about looking for spoilers for this book, just dive in blind and enjoy the story as it was meant to be experienced. So this review is going to be vague.
Redemptive took us back in time, well now we’re back in the almost-present where Ky and Madison, Nate and Bailey’s stories come together, and oh holy God, I wasn’t ready. We get to see these characters like we haven’t seen them before, and we learn so much more about them, and it’s exciting, unpredictable, beautiful and gutwrenching all at the same time.
I’d rather die a thousand deaths beside her than live a single day without.
I couldn't turn the pages fast enough, but there was a point where I had to put my kindle down, literally too scared to go on, not ready for the emotional slaughter that I sensed was coming, and OMG, the feels! I read parts of this book with tears streaming down my face – happy tears, sad tears, angry tears and healing tears. I felt everything along with the characters, and it was such an amazing ride.
I watch her sleep in my arms and hope that one day, she’ll stand tall, find peace, and love freely amid the destruction around her.
McLean keeps you guessing, never sure where the story is going or what to expect. She throws in some huge curveballs and adds a whole new dimension to the series which is really clever. And while it’s tumultuous at the time, looking back, the story played out exactly how it had to. It hurt when I was in the middle of it, but it’s right for the characters and their journeys, and I was completely satisfied with how it all ended up.
“Anywhere in the world … Where do you want to go?”
Sad, solemn eyes search mine. “You.”
My brow dips. “But... I’m not a place.”
His mouth lowers, settles on mine. He kisses me once. Just once. “You are to me.”
With fantastic characters (old and new), wonderful character development, and a story that kept me captivated, this is an emotionally intense story of family, friendship, love, pain, suffering and redemption, and a romance that completely owned my heart. I loved this book so much.
5 huge stars!
January 6, 2020
Solved Mysteries, Broken Hearts & a Gut-wrenching Love
*arc generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
“In a land of gods and monsters, I was an angel
Living in the garden of evil
Screwed up, scared, doing anything that I needed […]
You got that medicine I need
Dope, shoot it up straight to the heart please
I don't really wanna know what's good for me
God's dead, I said 'baby that's alright with me'”
Gods & Monsters – Lana Del Rey
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
This is the culmination of Combative and Redemptive. How can I describe what it’s about without giving away too many spoilers? I AM STRUGGLING HERE. Nate DeLuca returns as the protagonist. He’s been fulfilling his duties like a good soldier, even though I’m not sure you could call him a soldier in this scenario, and now the time has come for him to make a choice.
Last night, when I finished Destructive, my heart was BROKEN. As usual, all the feels were served in a hot dish of mystery, drama and love. I’m struggling to find the words to describe how I feel. DESTRUCTIVE IS MY PERSONAL FAVORITE BOOK OF THE SERIES. In each book so far, there was something completely different being presented. Book 3 follows the recipe. Foolishly, I went in and I thought to myself OKAY, I KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON… I had no idea. The author took the story to places that were unimaginable to me. The connection to the first book ENDED ME. I sat there and I was just mind-blown. Especially the bridge from book 1 to book 3 had me at the edge of my seat. Everything made sense. Everything clicked. Seeing all of what was happening from Nate’s perspective and how he reacted to everything made me appreciate him a little bit more. Bailey & Nate’s love story is just heart-breaking; I honestly don’t know how else to describe it. I’m still processing. I was fortunate enough to read all three of the books back to back; I can’t imagine how the OG fans felt. I will be re-reading this series sometime soon, just to pay more attention to the details that I might have missed during the first read (which, with me, tends to be a little SENSATIONAL). This emotional trilogy ends in a stunning way, resolving all of the mysteries and slicing your heart into tiny little pieces with everything that the characters endure.
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Bookbub
Amazon
*arc generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
“In a land of gods and monsters, I was an angel
Living in the garden of evil
Screwed up, scared, doing anything that I needed […]
You got that medicine I need
Dope, shoot it up straight to the heart please
I don't really wanna know what's good for me
God's dead, I said 'baby that's alright with me'”
Gods & Monsters – Lana Del Rey
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
This is the culmination of Combative and Redemptive. How can I describe what it’s about without giving away too many spoilers? I AM STRUGGLING HERE. Nate DeLuca returns as the protagonist. He’s been fulfilling his duties like a good soldier, even though I’m not sure you could call him a soldier in this scenario, and now the time has come for him to make a choice.
Last night, when I finished Destructive, my heart was BROKEN. As usual, all the feels were served in a hot dish of mystery, drama and love. I’m struggling to find the words to describe how I feel. DESTRUCTIVE IS MY PERSONAL FAVORITE BOOK OF THE SERIES. In each book so far, there was something completely different being presented. Book 3 follows the recipe. Foolishly, I went in and I thought to myself OKAY, I KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON… I had no idea. The author took the story to places that were unimaginable to me. The connection to the first book ENDED ME. I sat there and I was just mind-blown. Especially the bridge from book 1 to book 3 had me at the edge of my seat. Everything made sense. Everything clicked. Seeing all of what was happening from Nate’s perspective and how he reacted to everything made me appreciate him a little bit more. Bailey & Nate’s love story is just heart-breaking; I honestly don’t know how else to describe it. I’m still processing. I was fortunate enough to read all three of the books back to back; I can’t imagine how the OG fans felt. I will be re-reading this series sometime soon, just to pay more attention to the details that I might have missed during the first read (which, with me, tends to be a little SENSATIONAL). This emotional trilogy ends in a stunning way, resolving all of the mysteries and slicing your heart into tiny little pieces with everything that the characters endure.
Goodreads
Bookbub
Amazon
December 31, 2019
Forget every single thing you thought you knew going into this book. This story, this conclusion to the trilogy, it blows everything to smithereens. It annihilates your heart, feelings and common sense. It calls into question your sanity as a reader, because we chose to love these beautifully broken characters who were so sure to destroy us from the very beginning.
I went into this book truly believing there was no good way to end things, it’s not that I don’t have complete faith in Jay McLean and her writing talent. I’d blindly follow her off insane cliffs. It’s just that there were two completely separate and unique love stories to tie up and they both revolved around the same girl. It would be impossible to please everyone, not when intense soul-shattering love was on the line. So yes, I was nervous. I shouldn’t have been.
This story is different, it had to be. The author is merging multiple timelines, stories, and personalities into one book. One epic conclusion. We watch it all unravel, the love and destruction and passion and heat. It comes to a head and nothing is even close to what you think it could be. It’s dark, gritty and fascinating. There’s a thousand wheels turning at once, so many sub-plots and mysteries to keep you guessing and in the end... things ended perfectly. This trilogy ended with closure and complete confidence and this reader was nothing but tear streaked smiles as I wrapped up one of my favorite series to date.
Finish this series. You owe it to Madison and Ky, to their ability to love openly. You owe it to Bailey and Nate, to their all-consuming love that changed everything. You owe it to yourself, for falling for two anti-hero’s who both adore and would die for the same heartbroken heroine. This series isn’t just different, unique, and all-encompassing... it’s everything.
I went into this book truly believing there was no good way to end things, it’s not that I don’t have complete faith in Jay McLean and her writing talent. I’d blindly follow her off insane cliffs. It’s just that there were two completely separate and unique love stories to tie up and they both revolved around the same girl. It would be impossible to please everyone, not when intense soul-shattering love was on the line. So yes, I was nervous. I shouldn’t have been.
This story is different, it had to be. The author is merging multiple timelines, stories, and personalities into one book. One epic conclusion. We watch it all unravel, the love and destruction and passion and heat. It comes to a head and nothing is even close to what you think it could be. It’s dark, gritty and fascinating. There’s a thousand wheels turning at once, so many sub-plots and mysteries to keep you guessing and in the end... things ended perfectly. This trilogy ended with closure and complete confidence and this reader was nothing but tear streaked smiles as I wrapped up one of my favorite series to date.
Finish this series. You owe it to Madison and Ky, to their ability to love openly. You owe it to Bailey and Nate, to their all-consuming love that changed everything. You owe it to yourself, for falling for two anti-hero’s who both adore and would die for the same heartbroken heroine. This series isn’t just different, unique, and all-encompassing... it’s everything.
December 29, 2019
Destructive, the 3rd book in the Combative series was so much more than I expected, it was the perfect conclusion to this trilogy. This story brought the first two books together and ties it all up perfectly. The revelation, the heartbreak, the love, the friendship, the twists and turns all had me glued to the pages unable to put it down.
This was an epic love story but it was not an easy one. The author wrote these characters in a way that made them likable especially with all they had to face. They were well-developed and you will be consumed with them.
The story itself will take you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions, it will leave you speechless and break your heart and you will feel it all, but trust the author to make it all as it should be.
This nail biting page-turner was a phenomenal story and without a doubt one of my top reads for 2019. I would highly recommend it to all lovers of NA romance.
This was an epic love story but it was not an easy one. The author wrote these characters in a way that made them likable especially with all they had to face. They were well-developed and you will be consumed with them.
The story itself will take you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions, it will leave you speechless and break your heart and you will feel it all, but trust the author to make it all as it should be.
This nail biting page-turner was a phenomenal story and without a doubt one of my top reads for 2019. I would highly recommend it to all lovers of NA romance.
Want to read
June 15, 2017I FUCKING NEED THIS IN MY LIFE!
July 18, 2019
Where is this book????
January 8, 2020
10 MOTHA-F***ING STARS right HERE!!!!! I'm speachless!!!
March 22, 2025
5+ Stars!
February 14, 2025
Every day we rise
Woah woah woah!
5 + stars!!!
I’m speechless. This book had me in literal heavy tears after throwing me into a pit of emotion churning it round and spitting me out again.
There is not a lot I can say without giving anything away.
This book is the epic 3rd installment to the combative series . And boy was it incredibly hard and beautiful to read.
Book one we meet Madison (bailey) and kyler and although it was a story of heartbreak and healing it left us with a lot of questions . We do also meet Nate but he is also a bit of a mystery .
Book two we go back in time and learn who bailey/Madison is and learn a lot more about Nate.
Reading these two books first is a must to understand this third book.
This third book brings everything together and all of the characters face some major choices, go through incredible growth and healing but also take huge blows and suffer a lot of heart ache .
I hope you can forgive me for being so vague. Unless you want spoilers you really do HAVE to read this for yourself! If your thinking about it DO IT you won’t regret it!!!
Merged review:
Every day we rise
Woah woah woah!
5 + stars!!!
I’m speechless. This book had me in literal heavy tears after throwing me into a pit of emotion churning it round and spitting me out again.
There is not a lot I can say without giving anything away.
This book is the epic 3rd installment to the combative series . And boy was it incredibly hard and beautiful to read.
Book one we meet Madison (bailey) and kyler and although it was a story of heartbreak and healing it left us with a lot of questions . We do also meet Nate but he is also a bit of a mystery .
Book two we go back in time and learn who bailey/Madison is and learn a lot more about Nate.
Reading these two books first is a must to understand this third book.
This third book brings everything together and all of the characters face some major choices, go through incredible growth and healing but also take huge blows and suffer a lot of heart ache .
I hope you can forgive me for being so vague. Unless you want spoilers you really do HAVE to read this for yourself! If your thinking about it DO IT you won’t regret it!!!
Woah woah woah!
5 + stars!!!
I’m speechless. This book had me in literal heavy tears after throwing me into a pit of emotion churning it round and spitting me out again.
There is not a lot I can say without giving anything away.
This book is the epic 3rd installment to the combative series . And boy was it incredibly hard and beautiful to read.
Book one we meet Madison (bailey) and kyler and although it was a story of heartbreak and healing it left us with a lot of questions . We do also meet Nate but he is also a bit of a mystery .
Book two we go back in time and learn who bailey/Madison is and learn a lot more about Nate.
Reading these two books first is a must to understand this third book.
This third book brings everything together and all of the characters face some major choices, go through incredible growth and healing but also take huge blows and suffer a lot of heart ache .
I hope you can forgive me for being so vague. Unless you want spoilers you really do HAVE to read this for yourself! If your thinking about it DO IT you won’t regret it!!!
Merged review:
Every day we rise
Woah woah woah!
5 + stars!!!
I’m speechless. This book had me in literal heavy tears after throwing me into a pit of emotion churning it round and spitting me out again.
There is not a lot I can say without giving anything away.
This book is the epic 3rd installment to the combative series . And boy was it incredibly hard and beautiful to read.
Book one we meet Madison (bailey) and kyler and although it was a story of heartbreak and healing it left us with a lot of questions . We do also meet Nate but he is also a bit of a mystery .
Book two we go back in time and learn who bailey/Madison is and learn a lot more about Nate.
Reading these two books first is a must to understand this third book.
This third book brings everything together and all of the characters face some major choices, go through incredible growth and healing but also take huge blows and suffer a lot of heart ache .
I hope you can forgive me for being so vague. Unless you want spoilers you really do HAVE to read this for yourself! If your thinking about it DO IT you won’t regret it!!!
November 1, 2021
Beta reader...review
TICK...TOCK...It's GO time
Some romances are imminent, you open the book and you know how it will play out, this is not that love story. These souls are battered, they have seen the worst of people and done the worst of things, but they rise. They fall. They love. Hard. I can't properly articulate my absolute adoration for this one. Destructive is a hardened glance at not giving up, of not surrendering to the bad, and to always deserving the more. Although not an easy story to read at times it shook me to my core, it was more than worth it. SO FN WORTH IT.
This is a romance that is worked for, not handed to you lightly. The players are damaged, their hearts demolished but at the end of the day they love, fight, and win. Family. Love. Loyalty, Protection. All layers of armor in the world Nate has created. All that matters at the end is her. And he will do whatever it takes for her to live a full life outside the walls he once held her in. Whatever the cost. The heart stops, the stomach drops, and life moves on. Beautifully. One of my very favorite stories from Jay. The writing you have come to love with a darkened twist that she easily navigated. Playing my heart like an instrument, leaving me breathless, destroyed, and yet satisfied. How? The magic of Jay McLean. And so worth the wait....
TICK...TOCK...It's GO time
Some romances are imminent, you open the book and you know how it will play out, this is not that love story. These souls are battered, they have seen the worst of people and done the worst of things, but they rise. They fall. They love. Hard. I can't properly articulate my absolute adoration for this one. Destructive is a hardened glance at not giving up, of not surrendering to the bad, and to always deserving the more. Although not an easy story to read at times it shook me to my core, it was more than worth it. SO FN WORTH IT.
This is a romance that is worked for, not handed to you lightly. The players are damaged, their hearts demolished but at the end of the day they love, fight, and win. Family. Love. Loyalty, Protection. All layers of armor in the world Nate has created. All that matters at the end is her. And he will do whatever it takes for her to live a full life outside the walls he once held her in. Whatever the cost. The heart stops, the stomach drops, and life moves on. Beautifully. One of my very favorite stories from Jay. The writing you have come to love with a darkened twist that she easily navigated. Playing my heart like an instrument, leaving me breathless, destroyed, and yet satisfied. How? The magic of Jay McLean. And so worth the wait....
December 31, 2019
If there was a Golden buzzer, 10 star, automatically win the contest button, Destructive would have gotten it. Book of the mother frickin decade! Seriously. When Jay said it's not what you think it is...is totally not what you think. ITS SO MUCH BETTER ! The wait was totally worth it. I honestly do not know how anyone can come close to this book. Jay out did herself. Destructive is just that, completely destructive to your heart. You will read this book on the edge of your seat. You will either want to consume it all at once but at the same time you will need emotional breaks to get through it. God I don't think there has ever been a character like Nate DeLuca. This book has been the most anticipated book for years so I won't say anything more about it so that I am not ruining it. But You Have To read this book!!!
January 13, 2020
As I sit here, dumbfounded at the end of a long, painful, mysterious, and profound trilogy, all I can utter is “WOAH” like an idiot. I didn’t know what to expect going into Destructive as the first two books were so different, to begin with, and only giving a few clever clues here and there.
The plot was already twisted, and McLean turned it up to 11 in this final book. I felt like each page I read unfolded a new layer or turn in the plot, and with each of those, I grew more impressed. This isn’t a simple “who done it,” and it isn’t just a love triangle romance. This book, well trilogy, is a work of art honestly. The intricacies, the devastation, and the awe-inspiring message of: “every day, we rise” will forever be on display in my mind. The quote a reminder of how to live.
What a fantastic run. No other mystery will compare.
The plot was already twisted, and McLean turned it up to 11 in this final book. I felt like each page I read unfolded a new layer or turn in the plot, and with each of those, I grew more impressed. This isn’t a simple “who done it,” and it isn’t just a love triangle romance. This book, well trilogy, is a work of art honestly. The intricacies, the devastation, and the awe-inspiring message of: “every day, we rise” will forever be on display in my mind. The quote a reminder of how to live.
What a fantastic run. No other mystery will compare.
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