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Don't... #3
Breakdown
“Who’s been whispering to you, Jack?” ~ Doctor Halliday
Jack Harrison has the evidence there in his hands—the DVD and notepad off D.C. Sanders that proves Gray supposedly played a part in tearing him and Jan brutally apart. But with Jack locked away in his own mind and lost to his blackouts and self-harming in the Masters’ Circle’s psychiatric unit, the past brings to light the origins of a new beast, one who only comes out to play when Jack needs to hide—a psychopath who has perhaps tasted and tested Gray to the full. All Jack has to do is remember how… and why. More to the point: why does one part of him know Gray’s signature mark as an interrogations officer? And why is there such a serious sadistic kick in hiding the memory?
Jack Harrison has the evidence there in his hands—the DVD and notepad off D.C. Sanders that proves Gray supposedly played a part in tearing him and Jan brutally apart. But with Jack locked away in his own mind and lost to his blackouts and self-harming in the Masters’ Circle’s psychiatric unit, the past brings to light the origins of a new beast, one who only comes out to play when Jack needs to hide—a psychopath who has perhaps tasted and tested Gray to the full. All Jack has to do is remember how… and why. More to the point: why does one part of him know Gray’s signature mark as an interrogations officer? And why is there such a serious sadistic kick in hiding the memory?
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2014
22 people are currently reading
636 people want to read
About the author
Jack L. Pyke
21 books682 followersJack blames her dark writing influences on living close to one of England’s finest forests. Having grown up hearing a history of kidnappings, murders, strange sightings, and sexual exploits her neck of the woods is renowned for, Jack takes that into her writing, having also learned that human coping strategies for intense situations can sometimes make the best of people have disastrously bad moments. Redeeming those flaws is Jack’s drive.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
June 3, 2019
4.35 stars
I am emotionally drained. Being in Jack's head is exhausting and interesting at the same time. This book made me understand Jack better and love him even more. I missed Jan and Gray but i understand we needed this book and Jack needed this book.
The writing in this one is good and i didn't find myself lost between the scenes like the previous ones.
We get to know about Jack's past as he undergoes 6 months of therapy, and damn the guy got problems and problems.
I loved the Therapy sessions, they felt authentic.
Overall it was a good read and i liked it.
I am emotionally drained. Being in Jack's head is exhausting and interesting at the same time. This book made me understand Jack better and love him even more. I missed Jan and Gray but i understand we needed this book and Jack needed this book.
The writing in this one is good and i didn't find myself lost between the scenes like the previous ones.
We get to know about Jack's past as he undergoes 6 months of therapy, and damn the guy got problems and problems.
I loved the Therapy sessions, they felt authentic.
Overall it was a good read and i liked it.
August 20, 2014
4 stars. Full review posted August 19, 2014
Official release date: August 19, 2014
All quotes approved by author.
The order for the works:
Book #1 Don't...
Book #2 Antidote (#2b: Breakdown slots into Antidote, but is titled book #3)
Book #4 Gray Matters
Breakdown covers the five missing months of Antidote and deals with the severe fallout of the events that happened in the prequel. It's not pretty but I guess I don't have to tell you that. On the other hand, Breakdown was a walk in the park compared to Antidote. While Jack, Jan, and Gray all have to deal with those painful and heinous memories in their own way, Breakdown really focuses solely on Jack. Jan and Gray only join in sporadically. Readers will finally meet
With Breakdown they have almost come full circle. Well, they're not quite 'there' yet but still. Do you remember?
"Not from you. Never from fucking you," I whispered heatedly in his ear. "I got it wrong, so fucking wrong, Gray; I know I hurt you, but like fuck will I ever apologise for it." I gripped his hair, forcing him to wince. "This? It's such a good fucking hurt, it's us. It's the most fucking intense I've ever known: no kink, no chains, no restraint, just every goddamn ounce of right that comes with touching you. We both fuck-up so badly because of it."
I know that many readers dislike Gray but I dare to digress. As a matter of fact, I'm going to take up the cudgels for him. I. Love. The. Bones. Off. Gray. Jack at eighteen was one seriously sick and unlikable thug and he owes Gray big time. Also, can't serve as a full excuse either, IMO. Granted, we couldn't be aware of the entire dimension of their backgrounds when we were reading Don't… and Antidote. Regardless, I always felt drawn to the charismatic Gray right off the bat when I started reading this series and my affection for him never wavered, not even in Antidote. As I see it, my feelings have been validated with Breakdown.
Gray helped Jack to get his act together and he knew what he needed. Gray was Jack's quiet zone, the foundation of routine and security. Fact is, Gray calmed Jack's entire being and gave him a reason to refine himself; one step at a time, slow but steady. Considering they have been together for almost twelve years says a lot already and doesn't come by chance. There's more behind all this than BDSM. Feelings, needs, and love should be taken into account as well. In consequence, I can't say how stoked I am to finally get his POV in Gray Matters. Because, frankly, Gray matters very, very much, at least to me. I said it before and I will say it again: Jack owes Gray big time and Jack not trusting Gray must have hurt him deeply. While Breakdown wasn't a five-star read for me, I'm hoping to hand it out to Gray in the sequel.
Minor quibble
The mumbling was ever-present and there were too many winks as well. Repetitiveness is a pet peeve of mine and toning it down would have done the story a world of good.
There's no need to review Breakdown in great detail, so I'm going to stop here. Just dive in and be aware you will finally get a few explicit answers as to what happened in the past and how Jack met Gray.
Bottom line, the very gifted Jack L. Pyke has penned yet another addictive and intense addition to the Don't… series. Excellent storytelling skills, intriguing characters as well as complex characterizations make sure that this series upholds a very high standard. All the more reason to make me--and many other readers--very antsy to get to the next installment stat. Waiting sucks but I know that a well-deserved HEA for Jack, Jan, and Gray will be well worth the wait. Given the fact that their healing process isn't quite accomplished yet, a fourth book is definitely justified. Bring it on, Jack!
All quotes are taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted in the final copy
**ARC courtesy of Jack L. Pyke in exchange for an honest review**
Official release date: August 19, 2014
All quotes approved by author.
The order for the works:
Book #1 Don't...
Book #2 Antidote (#2b: Breakdown slots into Antidote, but is titled book #3)
Book #4 Gray Matters
Breakdown covers the five missing months of Antidote and deals with the severe fallout of the events that happened in the prequel. It's not pretty but I guess I don't have to tell you that. On the other hand, Breakdown was a walk in the park compared to Antidote. While Jack, Jan, and Gray all have to deal with those painful and heinous memories in their own way, Breakdown really focuses solely on Jack. Jan and Gray only join in sporadically. Readers will finally meet
With Breakdown they have almost come full circle. Well, they're not quite 'there' yet but still. Do you remember?
"Not from you. Never from fucking you," I whispered heatedly in his ear. "I got it wrong, so fucking wrong, Gray; I know I hurt you, but like fuck will I ever apologise for it." I gripped his hair, forcing him to wince. "This? It's such a good fucking hurt, it's us. It's the most fucking intense I've ever known: no kink, no chains, no restraint, just every goddamn ounce of right that comes with touching you. We both fuck-up so badly because of it."
I know that many readers dislike Gray but I dare to digress. As a matter of fact, I'm going to take up the cudgels for him. I. Love. The. Bones. Off. Gray. Jack at eighteen was one seriously sick and unlikable thug and he owes Gray big time. Also, can't serve as a full excuse either, IMO. Granted, we couldn't be aware of the entire dimension of their backgrounds when we were reading Don't… and Antidote. Regardless, I always felt drawn to the charismatic Gray right off the bat when I started reading this series and my affection for him never wavered, not even in Antidote. As I see it, my feelings have been validated with Breakdown.
Gray helped Jack to get his act together and he knew what he needed. Gray was Jack's quiet zone, the foundation of routine and security. Fact is, Gray calmed Jack's entire being and gave him a reason to refine himself; one step at a time, slow but steady. Considering they have been together for almost twelve years says a lot already and doesn't come by chance. There's more behind all this than BDSM. Feelings, needs, and love should be taken into account as well. In consequence, I can't say how stoked I am to finally get his POV in Gray Matters. Because, frankly, Gray matters very, very much, at least to me. I said it before and I will say it again: Jack owes Gray big time and Jack not trusting Gray must have hurt him deeply. While Breakdown wasn't a five-star read for me, I'm hoping to hand it out to Gray in the sequel.
Minor quibble
The mumbling was ever-present and there were too many winks as well. Repetitiveness is a pet peeve of mine and toning it down would have done the story a world of good.
There's no need to review Breakdown in great detail, so I'm going to stop here. Just dive in and be aware you will finally get a few explicit answers as to what happened in the past and how Jack met Gray.
Bottom line, the very gifted Jack L. Pyke has penned yet another addictive and intense addition to the Don't… series. Excellent storytelling skills, intriguing characters as well as complex characterizations make sure that this series upholds a very high standard. All the more reason to make me--and many other readers--very antsy to get to the next installment stat. Waiting sucks but I know that a well-deserved HEA for Jack, Jan, and Gray will be well worth the wait. Given the fact that their healing process isn't quite accomplished yet, a fourth book is definitely justified. Bring it on, Jack!
Look for the good. Look for what and who matters.
All quotes are taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted in the final copy
**ARC courtesy of Jack L. Pyke in exchange for an honest review**
March 26, 2018
**** 4.5 Stars ****
So, it’s been 4 years since I read Don't... (Don't..., #1) - the first book in this series.
Sadly, I didn’t register my thoughts. I don’t think I use to write my ramblings back in 2014 but I remember it being a solid 4 stars.
It took me 2 years to read the sequel, Antidote (Don't... #2) but when I did, I was left feeling kind of astonished and stunned by it.
Antidote was hands down one of the darkest books I have ever read and it's a very good example of what I call guilty pleasure. I've noticed that this is a shelf that varies from person to person. To me, a book falls in this category when it portrays something extremely bad wrong, brutal, taboo, or along those lines and yet I was amazed by it. My guilty pleasure because c'mon! How can someone enjoy such a twisted dark tale so much?
Well, me.
Wired wrong perhaps, from birth.
I went for Breakdown (Don't..., #3) as soon as I could, but somehow the first pages didn’t grab me and I had to put it aside waiting for the right moment as I have a condition called MD - Mood Disorder.
So here I am, 2 years later reading another sequel. A big thank you to Katerina who very kindly wrote me a great sum up from the first 2 books to refresh my mind as I hate re-reads. And so I was able to dive into this insanely crazy and fabulous dark world which is Don’t series, again.
It always takes me a bit to get used to the writing style, it’s difficult for me to explain, like many things happening at the same time, but when I realize I feel totally immersed in the incredible world Jack L. Pyke has created.
I recommend it for those who like it twisted and dark. Don’t expect romance. That being said, the sex is highly erotic, although angry and violent most of the times. Don’t judge
it’s the way they like it.
So, it’s been 4 years since I read Don't... (Don't..., #1) - the first book in this series.
Sadly, I didn’t register my thoughts. I don’t think I use to write my ramblings back in 2014 but I remember it being a solid 4 stars.
It took me 2 years to read the sequel, Antidote (Don't... #2) but when I did, I was left feeling kind of astonished and stunned by it.
Antidote was hands down one of the darkest books I have ever read and it's a very good example of what I call guilty pleasure. I've noticed that this is a shelf that varies from person to person. To me, a book falls in this category when it portrays something extremely bad wrong, brutal, taboo, or along those lines and yet I was amazed by it. My guilty pleasure because c'mon! How can someone enjoy such a twisted dark tale so much?
Well, me.
Wired wrong perhaps, from birth.
I went for Breakdown (Don't..., #3) as soon as I could, but somehow the first pages didn’t grab me and I had to put it aside waiting for the right moment as I have a condition called MD - Mood Disorder.
So here I am, 2 years later reading another sequel. A big thank you to Katerina who very kindly wrote me a great sum up from the first 2 books to refresh my mind as I hate re-reads. And so I was able to dive into this insanely crazy and fabulous dark world which is Don’t series, again.
It always takes me a bit to get used to the writing style, it’s difficult for me to explain, like many things happening at the same time, but when I realize I feel totally immersed in the incredible world Jack L. Pyke has created.
I recommend it for those who like it twisted and dark. Don’t expect romance. That being said, the sex is highly erotic, although angry and violent most of the times. Don’t judge
it’s the way they like it.
August 19, 2014
Wow! She's done it AGAIN! Macky and I review this one together. Yet another outstanding addition to this AMAZING series!
Macky: Fuck Monique! I'm feeling a wee bit speechless at the moment. Does blown away sound the right statement about this book or is that not even enough? Having gone through hell with these guys (and Jack Pyke has certainly put us through it alongside the trio) what was your reaction when you finally put it down?
Monique: Holy Fuck…I’m gobsmacked yet again! I know I’ve said this before Macky but in my opinion Jack L. Pyke is an author of outstanding talent and these books are truly unrivalled in this dark psychological genre. They are compelling with complex and intricate story lines, and the emotions I have experienced reading these books can only be described as immense. She has given us the total mind fuck in Don’t, followed by the painful and traumatic episode of Antidote, to yet again take us on a completely different path with Breakdown where not only do we come face to face with the demons from Jack’s past but it’s also time for Jack to find out the truth.
Macky: Oh Monique, this has to have been one of the most electrifying, exhaustive, powerful, torturous reading experiences I think I've ever had. It's taken me to dark, fucked up places that have challenged me in so many ways. I've gone through every emotion possible and pushed through some hard core passages that definitely aren't for the faint hearted but still each book up to now has kept me enthralled! And what has amazed me is how each one has carried the on-going thread that started in Don't but never has it felt repetitive or tedious. Each book has changed it up in ways that have kept it diverse, distinctive and always surprising. That's damn fine, clever writing and I agree; Jack L Pyke is one hell of a talented author.
Monique: Breakdown, Macky, in some ways was harder hitting for me. I think it’s because we see those missing months from Antidote where Jack is forced to confront exactly what triggers those disorders… We see him eased into his past, taking baby steps where layer upon layer is unravelled from the dark recesses of his mind, gently coaxing the repressed memories that are too painful to recollect and too painful for him to deal with mentally. It’s a confrontation he doesn’t want and all I wanted to do was close my eyes and sob my heart out. Those flashbacks to eighteen year old Jack were difficult to read, the arrogant and cocky attitude of a boy that was hiding secrets he wasn’t even aware of… my God Macky, I cried buckets! Not only at Jack’s story but at how profound the writing was. Jack L Pyke so cleverly manipulates us as readers in a see saw of emotions, so much so my stomach was in knots. And I don’t even know where to start on describing the intensity between Jack and Grey or even how Jack Pyke manages to convey it with such powerful emotion. I don’t think I have ever had a character affect me in quite the same way as Jack has throughout this series so far. 
For the rest of the review and a chance to win paperback copies of all three books in the series so far... pop over to the blog and have a nosy ~~> http://bit.ly/1kSh48P
August 24, 2014
I could tell you that this is a great mind-fuck book, but that just wouldn't begin to cover it.
For those who stuck through book 2 in this series, Antidote—a particularly intense and graphic read—this book is the reward. It answers almost everything you've wanted to know about Jack. It's no where near as distressing a read, but it is emotional. I've been waiting, desperately, for this release so I could finally discuss it, because this is a book that begs for discussion.
THE CHARACTERS
Jack Harrison - "Drugs. I was going to need some real big fuck-off drugs to get through this shit."
Jan Richards - "... I'm here. Don't forget that."
Gray Raoul - Yes! We get to see the beginning of Jack and Gray. Oh, Gray is a very smooth man.
Great side characters include: Craig and Doctor Halliday, Sally, Joe and Martin. Craig needs his own story - just sayin'.
THE STORY
The timeline of this book takes place just before the ending of book 2. If you've read 2 you'll know that Jack has made tremendous progress and is ready to approach Gray. In order to get to that point though, Jack has to do some self-work—to say the least.
During his stay in the MC's Psych Unit, Jack fights, discovers, re-lives, and has incredible blackouts. Jan is there, right there, even if he's mostly out of sight.
I had such feels for Jan during this read, and don't even get me started on what I think Gray was going through. The focus here is almost all on Jack, and rightfully so. Jack is just so fucked up. His thoughts are so random and disconnected, but still with one main, true thought; Gray and Jan. Always.
THE WRITING
So, here's the deal, the brilliance of this book is that Jack L. Pyke puts you inside Jack's head, inside the mind-fuck and literally inside his intense psychosis. You're not just viewing this from a distance and trying to figure out what's happening, you're experiencing it as Jack does and believe me that is a whole different level of head-trip.
It's an impressive read and the author does a great job of bringing clarity to most of the questions that the series has held for us so far. Of course, at the same time, she opens new avenues of plot. These primarily revolve around where the three-some relationship of Jack, Jan and Gray is headed.
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Jack L. Pyke and Forbidden Fiction for providing me with an ARC/Review Copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
For those who stuck through book 2 in this series, Antidote—a particularly intense and graphic read—this book is the reward. It answers almost everything you've wanted to know about Jack. It's no where near as distressing a read, but it is emotional. I've been waiting, desperately, for this release so I could finally discuss it, because this is a book that begs for discussion.
THE CHARACTERS
Jack Harrison - "Drugs. I was going to need some real big fuck-off drugs to get through this shit."
Jan Richards - "... I'm here. Don't forget that."
Gray Raoul - Yes! We get to see the beginning of Jack and Gray. Oh, Gray is a very smooth man.
Great side characters include: Craig and Doctor Halliday, Sally, Joe and Martin. Craig needs his own story - just sayin'.
"Yeah? You know there's only the definite article 'the' in there that separates therapists from rapists; both come with mind fucks. And I've played with some of the worst."
THE STORY
The timeline of this book takes place just before the ending of book 2. If you've read 2 you'll know that Jack has made tremendous progress and is ready to approach Gray. In order to get to that point though, Jack has to do some self-work—to say the least.
During his stay in the MC's Psych Unit, Jack fights, discovers, re-lives, and has incredible blackouts. Jan is there, right there, even if he's mostly out of sight.
Life went calm, so fucking calm as a tear fell. Not his... mine. Resting my head against his, we shared a breath. "Don't..." I mumbled quietly, "kiss me anymore, baby. Please. Don't... just don't... Fucking hurts."
I had such feels for Jan during this read, and don't even get me started on what I think Gray was going through. The focus here is almost all on Jack, and rightfully so. Jack is just so fucked up. His thoughts are so random and disconnected, but still with one main, true thought; Gray and Jan. Always.
THE WRITING
So, here's the deal, the brilliance of this book is that Jack L. Pyke puts you inside Jack's head, inside the mind-fuck and literally inside his intense psychosis. You're not just viewing this from a distance and trying to figure out what's happening, you're experiencing it as Jack does and believe me that is a whole different level of head-trip.
It's an impressive read and the author does a great job of bringing clarity to most of the questions that the series has held for us so far. Of course, at the same time, she opens new avenues of plot. These primarily revolve around where the three-some relationship of Jack, Jan and Gray is headed.
"Jack, are you aware you're scratching at your hip. Would you prefer to 'go casual' with your photo?"
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Jack L. Pyke and Forbidden Fiction for providing me with an ARC/Review Copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
May 5, 2022
So very needed, but that kind of healing feels like it will never be enough.
July 29, 2016
I really am blown away by this book - it is not an easy book to read and I just want to grab Jack and hide him away somewhere safe after this story, but I think he has two men to take care of him.
“Scared, Jack?”I nodded, just the once, then eased my cheek against his. “Just...”I whispered quickly, “Just scared of falling, of not being good enough for you.”The briefest kiss brushed my lips and I was still with it after the gentleness was gone, left there chasing it as I licked at my lips, making sure he’d been there—nervous with how he’d been there. “None of us are stain-free. We all have our faults and flaws, stunner.”
This story takes place during Jack's stay at the MC Mental Facility once him and Jan are rescued from Vince and his crew. This is Jack's story of his life from age 18 to age 30 and all that he has endured, how he met Gray, a deeper look at who Cutter is, some in depth looks at Jack and His Father's relationship...along with so much more. Again, you cannot skim this book you have to read every single word because Jack L Pyke has packed it with details.
Get ready for a story that is going to evoke every single emotion you have from bad to good, get Ready to go from wanting to kill Jack, to meeting Martin, to wanting to shelter Jack - get ready for a true mind-f*ck of a story as you see everything through Jack's eyes...
Amazing 5 star story..Beautifully written with perfect execution and transition between stories and perceptions.
“Scared, Jack?”I nodded, just the once, then eased my cheek against his. “Just...”I whispered quickly, “Just scared of falling, of not being good enough for you.”The briefest kiss brushed my lips and I was still with it after the gentleness was gone, left there chasing it as I licked at my lips, making sure he’d been there—nervous with how he’d been there. “None of us are stain-free. We all have our faults and flaws, stunner.”
This story takes place during Jack's stay at the MC Mental Facility once him and Jan are rescued from Vince and his crew. This is Jack's story of his life from age 18 to age 30 and all that he has endured, how he met Gray, a deeper look at who Cutter is, some in depth looks at Jack and His Father's relationship...along with so much more. Again, you cannot skim this book you have to read every single word because Jack L Pyke has packed it with details.
Get ready for a story that is going to evoke every single emotion you have from bad to good, get Ready to go from wanting to kill Jack, to meeting Martin, to wanting to shelter Jack - get ready for a true mind-f*ck of a story as you see everything through Jack's eyes...
“The fine art of submission, Jack,” said Gray, softly, “it’s not defined by the weight of the chains that hold you down or the control of the man above you.” ... “The real beauty behind submission,” said Gray, quietly, “is defined by how a man submits with no chains present, no physical restraint, just a pure will to allow someone else to control the moment, here and on full and stunning display.”
Amazing 5 star story..Beautifully written with perfect execution and transition between stories and perceptions.
May 4, 2018
OK...Here goes..My review of maybe the best book you will ever read...Breakdown is no where near as hard a read as Antidote...Believe me it took me a while and a good few people including the author herself to make me believe that...But omg it's still an emotional ride.....Set mostly in a Psychiatric hospital in MC grounds Jack is trying to recover from what happened to him and Jan in Antidote....The trauma and all his disorders making his life hard.....I fell in love with Jack in Breakdown...I know I know most people fell in Love with him In Don't but I fell for Gray....Miss Pyke made me fall hook line and sinker for Jack in this.....He tried so hard to set his recovery on track with his men...You have to remember that Jan and also Gray were without their men too....It was hard to think about them being apart for five long months...I felt for Jan in this....Unless I missed something I didn't think that Jan got his recovery....He still seemed lost and couldn't touch and with all he had to deal with while Jack was recovering I think was a bit too much....(Please Jack give Jan his recovery).....I loved getting into Jacks head as a teen and reading about his past at the hands of Cutter....meeting Gray for the first time was amazing to read...We're given all the answers from the previous two books that we needed...Jack came into his own....We found out that Gray underneath his Master Shell is indeed a loving caring tender man who indeed does cry..He was lost without Jack and Jan...The love these men have for each other is amazing.....I can't thank Jack L Pyke enough for giving me Gray,Jack and Jan.....Like Lynn Kelling giving me Gabe,Dare Ben and kyle I now have a good set of men to drool over......I loved this book the best and I know that will be short lived with the next book coming up but I so wish that this series could go on forever...Five stars is not enough...Thank you so much again Miss Pyke For my Gray..for Jack and for Jan...Read,take it in,love it and enjoy x
September 4, 2020
Brilliant, amazing, entertaining, cathartic, sexy, heartbreaking, uplifting…I could go on and on, but that’d just be embarrassing. I CANNOT recommend this series more highly. If you’re a fan of BDSM, you MUST read Jack L. Pyke.
November 30, 2019
BLOWN AWAY!!! So far this was my favorite of the series. This book solely from Jack’s POV, and Martin’s a where do I even begin with Martin. All the books are building on the prior ones with more and more information slowly coming out, making sense and shocking the hell out of me. The range of emotions I went through while hearing Jack was heartbreaking as well as beautiful at moments. The last part of this book is everything to me ♥️
As mentioned in my prior reviews I am listening to the audio and now that I have fallen completely head over heels for Dan Calley I going run out of audio before book 5 😳.
Love this
As mentioned in my prior reviews I am listening to the audio and now that I have fallen completely head over heels for Dan Calley I going run out of audio before book 5 😳.
Love this
must-review-read
January 11, 2016*ARC from author*
bloody hell...... gimme gimme gimme gimme..... oh god..... I am already going crazy.... this is killing me..... need it now!
October 19, 2017
I'm giving five stars for the cover. Since I assisted/was involved//worked in this book, I'm not supposed to rate it. Jack L. Pyke is a brilliant writer that does not get the attention she deserves.
She shifted Breakdown to Jack's mental breakdown. You are brought into the world of mental illness right along with Jack and feel his pain and confusion. You feel his shock at losing his rights that go along with being committed and are right there with him as he strives to get better so he can leave the hospital to be with the men he loves.
This was the hardest book for me. It was painful to watch Jack's struggles and tripped all of my panic triggers. You will find comfort that Jack is getting the help he needs and see some of the past experiences that brought all of his mental illnesses on.
I hope you enjoy and cherish Breakdown as much as I do. Once again Jack L. PYKE wrote this book in red - meaning with blood, sweat and tears and it shows with every word and sentence.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
She shifted Breakdown to Jack's mental breakdown. You are brought into the world of mental illness right along with Jack and feel his pain and confusion. You feel his shock at losing his rights that go along with being committed and are right there with him as he strives to get better so he can leave the hospital to be with the men he loves.
This was the hardest book for me. It was painful to watch Jack's struggles and tripped all of my panic triggers. You will find comfort that Jack is getting the help he needs and see some of the past experiences that brought all of his mental illnesses on.
I hope you enjoy and cherish Breakdown as much as I do. Once again Jack L. PYKE wrote this book in red - meaning with blood, sweat and tears and it shows with every word and sentence.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
March 20, 2016
Absolutely incredible. The way the author reveals this story is beyond fantastic. Such complicated characters - I can't wait to read Backlash. I love Jack, he's been my favorite characters since meeting him in Lynn Kelling's Deliver Us series so it was amazing to get to have a book all from his pov. And to see how it all started for him and Gray - and to get that insight into Jack's relationship with his mother... perfect.
Such a creative plot and I loved how the author retells scenes from previous stories and shows how they all come together. I think because I've become so close to these characters that really meant a lot to me. It is great, knowing what is coming and knowing I'll get to read if from Jack's pov.
Loved it - really great!
Such a creative plot and I loved how the author retells scenes from previous stories and shows how they all come together. I think because I've become so close to these characters that really meant a lot to me. It is great, knowing what is coming and knowing I'll get to read if from Jack's pov.
Loved it - really great!
January 12, 2016
Shortest book in the series. Longest to read. Kept having to walk away because of similarities with Jack that mess with my own version of control. ;)
However, despite my discomfort, I very much enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next.
However, despite my discomfort, I very much enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next.
February 16, 2016
★★★☆☆½ ~ 3.5 Stars
This was a depressing read. It starts immediately after Antidote and everything, and I mean everything has finally caught up to Jack. We flash back to Cutter, to Gray, Martin (and what Jack saw and did to cause Martin to manifest!) and more of Jack's mother, Vince, as Jack is sectioned in a care facility. Very realistic and detailed care, author did her homework. As Carol pointed out to me, Jack did have people who loved him but the bad people outnumber the good people here.
While I read this, I kept flashing back to Don't, when Jan and Jack met in the garage after Jan's Jag had broken-down, Jack had nicknamed him Breakdown (OMG did I just have an ephiphany?!) and while their meeting wasn't drama-free and Jack's idiosyncrasies become more obvious over time, it seemed innocent and care-free. As we move along in the series, Jack just keeps having more and more layers to peel. When Jan met Jack, he had absofuckinglutely no clue what he signed up for. And Gray sort of knew but he has his own demons to slay.
Anyway, I forced myself to finish because I'm three books in and we were doing a buddy read but it was a bit of a challenge for me. The sex in this book as it was, was violent, angry and not a turn-on at all for me so this will not be a reread for me.
Still, I'm rating it 3.5 (and rounding up to 4 stars) for the story and writing even if I didn't like it that much.
This was a depressing read. It starts immediately after Antidote and everything, and I mean everything has finally caught up to Jack. We flash back to Cutter, to Gray, Martin (and what Jack saw and did to cause Martin to manifest!) and more of Jack's mother, Vince, as Jack is sectioned in a care facility. Very realistic and detailed care, author did her homework. As Carol pointed out to me, Jack did have people who loved him but the bad people outnumber the good people here.
While I read this, I kept flashing back to Don't, when Jan and Jack met in the garage after Jan's Jag had broken-down, Jack had nicknamed him Breakdown (OMG did I just have an ephiphany?!) and while their meeting wasn't drama-free and Jack's idiosyncrasies become more obvious over time, it seemed innocent and care-free. As we move along in the series, Jack just keeps having more and more layers to peel. When Jan met Jack, he had absofuckinglutely no clue what he signed up for. And Gray sort of knew but he has his own demons to slay.
Anyway, I forced myself to finish because I'm three books in and we were doing a buddy read but it was a bit of a challenge for me. The sex in this book as it was, was violent, angry and not a turn-on at all for me so this will not be a reread for me.
Still, I'm rating it 3.5 (and rounding up to 4 stars) for the story and writing even if I didn't like it that much.
April 13, 2019
*4.5 stars*
I didn't expect to like this so much but it turned out to be my favorite. A much needed installment that filled in so many blanks about the first two books. The last 15% was the most swoon worthy.
I didn't expect to like this so much but it turned out to be my favorite. A much needed installment that filled in so many blanks about the first two books. The last 15% was the most swoon worthy.
September 7, 2014
This is the third in a series and this is a series that you need to read slowly, in order. There will be times you will wish it were paper copy as that is easier to flick back and forth and with these books there is a time or so in each that you will need to do this.
I have also reread the prior book in the series before this as a refresher and that has added so much insight, little things missed that clarify a lot.
Jack L.Pyke's stories I love, with a passion. Not easy reads, not pleasant, demanding of me emotionally and at the end I feel like I have been through a dark storm tunnel, and can just see light at the end of the tunnel.
The same again with Breakdown, though the vile and viscious rapes are in the past real time the past cannot be just put away. Jack's mental health issues and disorders are in a spiral and out of control once again, they threaten the love and relationships seemingly so secure of both Jan and Gray his lovers and tremendous strain on father son that endures all. Jack is committed under the UK's mental health act and Jack Pyke takes us on a journey through disorders as well as the dark destructive times from Jack's past to present.
If you were looking for some sweet sexy romance then your in the wrong place.
I will say, even knowing how these story pathways tend to go I still found myself backtracking when context became muddled even incoherent, only to find I had missed a subheading that took the reader to a time when Jack was 18 or 20 so as a reader you need be alert.
Also plenty happens as Jack travels the painful past in order to bring a tentative hope again to his present and maybe his future.
This also shows, and excellently how mental health issues can flare and calm periodically through life and no one can say cured and done and dusted for good. It leaves you only to clearly, through the rhyme cleverly played as an analogy, that Humpty Dumpty is a fragile egg shell that smashes and finds difficulty being put together again...as does Jack, and to a lesser degree and focus so does Jan and Gray, as all suffer.
Even in the depths of awfulness, dub con or non con or totally consensual, Jack Pyke adds an eroticism to her sexuality scenes that would take a pillar of stone not be be eroticised when reading such. This writer has a great skill here and continues to develop it nicely.
Yet in saying, I love her stories, I adore her men main characters and also her subsidiary characters. Here we have yet another cleverly in Craig, former army nurse, and has a great attitude for a mental nurse. Brooks no nonsense and deals with psychotic episodes from Jack/Martin when his split persona comes into play in a professional way that shows some sympathy, but it's for your own good mate attitude that has a half warning veiled with a sense of humour.
Jack's strength is in her characters, they are as if real, bit too real as they entice us readers to want to know more and more. Again more of Steve his long time best buddy and their connection, and also how his lovely father has stuck by him through thick and thin. Such a shame he had such awful taste in his wife! One deluded cow I would cheerfully like to smack one or more!
This is very British, and with colloquialism and UK sayings the language could be difficult with misunderstandings at times for compatriots over the waters, but I loved it and Breakdown has 5 stars from me.
So my best read for last year and for this. Don't... Antidote and now Breakdown...can't wait for Gray Matters.
I have also reread the prior book in the series before this as a refresher and that has added so much insight, little things missed that clarify a lot.
Jack L.Pyke's stories I love, with a passion. Not easy reads, not pleasant, demanding of me emotionally and at the end I feel like I have been through a dark storm tunnel, and can just see light at the end of the tunnel.
The same again with Breakdown, though the vile and viscious rapes are in the past real time the past cannot be just put away. Jack's mental health issues and disorders are in a spiral and out of control once again, they threaten the love and relationships seemingly so secure of both Jan and Gray his lovers and tremendous strain on father son that endures all. Jack is committed under the UK's mental health act and Jack Pyke takes us on a journey through disorders as well as the dark destructive times from Jack's past to present.
If you were looking for some sweet sexy romance then your in the wrong place.
I will say, even knowing how these story pathways tend to go I still found myself backtracking when context became muddled even incoherent, only to find I had missed a subheading that took the reader to a time when Jack was 18 or 20 so as a reader you need be alert.
Also plenty happens as Jack travels the painful past in order to bring a tentative hope again to his present and maybe his future.
This also shows, and excellently how mental health issues can flare and calm periodically through life and no one can say cured and done and dusted for good. It leaves you only to clearly, through the rhyme cleverly played as an analogy, that Humpty Dumpty is a fragile egg shell that smashes and finds difficulty being put together again...as does Jack, and to a lesser degree and focus so does Jan and Gray, as all suffer.
Even in the depths of awfulness, dub con or non con or totally consensual, Jack Pyke adds an eroticism to her sexuality scenes that would take a pillar of stone not be be eroticised when reading such. This writer has a great skill here and continues to develop it nicely.
Yet in saying, I love her stories, I adore her men main characters and also her subsidiary characters. Here we have yet another cleverly in Craig, former army nurse, and has a great attitude for a mental nurse. Brooks no nonsense and deals with psychotic episodes from Jack/Martin when his split persona comes into play in a professional way that shows some sympathy, but it's for your own good mate attitude that has a half warning veiled with a sense of humour.
Jack's strength is in her characters, they are as if real, bit too real as they entice us readers to want to know more and more. Again more of Steve his long time best buddy and their connection, and also how his lovely father has stuck by him through thick and thin. Such a shame he had such awful taste in his wife! One deluded cow I would cheerfully like to smack one or more!
This is very British, and with colloquialism and UK sayings the language could be difficult with misunderstandings at times for compatriots over the waters, but I loved it and Breakdown has 5 stars from me.
So my best read for last year and for this. Don't... Antidote and now Breakdown...can't wait for Gray Matters.
August 19, 2014
A review by The Blogger Girls.
If you have made it through the mysterious introduction of Don’t, fallen in love with and then had to suffer along side these guy through Antidote, then you are, no doubt, invested in Jack/Jan/Gray and eager to get your hands on this installment.
Unlike Antidote, which followed events in Don’t, Breakdown takes place near the end of Antidote when Jack’s illnesses and phobias cloud his mind and judgment where Gray is concerned. Jack seems to have made some headway in his recovery, but these guys really haven’t had a chance yet to fully deal with the events from Antidote, and things finally come to a head here. With the help of his father, Jan and Dr. Halliday, Jack is committed to the Master’s Circle Psychiatric Unit. While reluctant at first, Jack soon realizes the extent of the dark place he now finds himself and that he needs to either sink or swim.
This book is very unlike the first two. It focuses solely on Jack and his recovery. At first, I was disappointed that it wasn’t a continuation of Antidote, but I quickly realized what an integral part it plays to the overall story. Jack was one messed up little dude, even before Vince got a hold of him. Martin has been making more and more appearances, and Jack is now more aware of Martin’s existence. He has to fall pretty hard before he can climb back up to the point where he can understand what’s going on inside of him and actually heal or control things. Jack makes huge leaps and bounds here, but still has some underlying issues (such as his inability to “go casual” with Gray’s photo).
What I found so amazing about this story was how easily we were shown Jack from the inside. It was almost as if I was right there with him, wanting to hold his hand and help him understand so he could move on and get back to making amends with Jan and Gray. I loved that we got to see more of the reasoning behind Martin and what led Jack down the path that allowed Martin to take over. The whole Martin aspect is fascinating and so completely understandable/believable given the circumstances. We are shown tidbits of Jack’s early days and some of the causes of his phobias and what brought on his mental illness/issues.
During Jack’s therapy, he is basically aware of what’s going on, is able to discuss his treatments, etc. even if he is unable to control his blackouts or really know what triggers them. He has the help of Craig, his nurse, who is a fabulous character, and his fellow patients, Sally and Joe of the Missing Teeth.
We get to see Jan a bit, though he stays on the sidelines through most (Jack still has issues with Jan, i.e. his smell being a trigger for Jack). You get the feeling that Jan is struggling so much on his own but still trying to be there and do whatever he can for Jack. Gray is mostly in the background as well, since he and Jack are going through some major changes right now. My heart still breaks for Gray as he reached the breaking point of not believing he can be what Jack needs anymore. Gahhhhh, I cannot wait for his book!
So, again, this is a completely different read than the first two books, but the writing is no less specatular or engaging. Some people may struggle with the lack of sex or the focus on Jack alone, but I gobbled up every word and simply could not get enough. I loved that we got to see the recovery side of things, and thank goodness, Jack finally got it and understands what has been happening and what he has been putting Gray (and Jan) through.
If you are looking for a story that will keep you guessing with mystery, twists and turns, make you fall in love with the characters, good and bad, push your limits, make you cringe, and leave you emotionally wrung out, do not hesitate to give Jack Pyke a try. I have yet to be even the slightest bit disappointed and am left longing for the next book before I even finish the current one.
August 19, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
Signs of a Breakdown:
Depression
Anxiety
Extreme Mood Swings
Hallucinations
Panic Attacks
Paranoia
Social Withdrawal
Flashbacks
This book was not at all what I expected it to be. I’d read the blurb but still not caught on. This is Jack’s book, there are little bits of Gray and Jan as the story is told, but Don’t imagine this book is the same as the first two.
This is painful, harrowing, sickening and dark and will finally leave us with an explanation of who Jack really is. How Jack became that person. Who and what purpose Martin serves. What role Steve played. Just how entwined his life is with Gray. What his father went through. How we got to where we are now.
This story starts with a young Jack and the abuse he went through with Cutter and just how vicious Gray was when they first meet. Just how loving Gray was when they first meet even if neither of them realised it.
We discover what happened in the months between Gray calling out ‘Mercedes Benz’ to them both finally seeing each other back at the maze and it is not at all pretty. Did any of realise just how bad things had got for Jack? Just how bad things had been for Jack?
In Breakdown it all comes spilling forth with an intensity that will take your breath away. Gray is mainly MIA, left devastated by Jack’s behaviour. Jan went through his own hell and is trying to mend without the two men he loves at his side. Jack is locked up for his own protection and only when he opens up and looks back will he start his recovery. The fight is on to bring these three men back together again.
Another brilliant book in this series and some more dark, dark writing from Jack L. Pyke.
Signs of a Breakdown:
Depression
Anxiety
Extreme Mood Swings
Hallucinations
Panic Attacks
Paranoia
Social Withdrawal
Flashbacks
This book was not at all what I expected it to be. I’d read the blurb but still not caught on. This is Jack’s book, there are little bits of Gray and Jan as the story is told, but Don’t imagine this book is the same as the first two.
This is painful, harrowing, sickening and dark and will finally leave us with an explanation of who Jack really is. How Jack became that person. Who and what purpose Martin serves. What role Steve played. Just how entwined his life is with Gray. What his father went through. How we got to where we are now.
This story starts with a young Jack and the abuse he went through with Cutter and just how vicious Gray was when they first meet. Just how loving Gray was when they first meet even if neither of them realised it.
We discover what happened in the months between Gray calling out ‘Mercedes Benz’ to them both finally seeing each other back at the maze and it is not at all pretty. Did any of realise just how bad things had got for Jack? Just how bad things had been for Jack?
In Breakdown it all comes spilling forth with an intensity that will take your breath away. Gray is mainly MIA, left devastated by Jack’s behaviour. Jan went through his own hell and is trying to mend without the two men he loves at his side. Jack is locked up for his own protection and only when he opens up and looks back will he start his recovery. The fight is on to bring these three men back together again.
Another brilliant book in this series and some more dark, dark writing from Jack L. Pyke.
September 15, 2014
Picking up before the ending of Antidote, Jack Pyke immerses the reader in the mind of Jack for the months he was treated at the MC's psychiatric hospital following the abduction and torture and preceding the final chapter of Antidote. While the timeline of the story does not move further, this book is critical in really understanding Jack, his relationships with his family, Jan and Gray, and how he has gotten to where he is.
While this book is all Jack, it is given in several different points of view: present day 30 year old Jack undergoing treatment with Dr. Halliday for his various disorders and the fallout from what was done in the last book; teenage Jack, under the influence of Cutter; and Martin, both past and present, who appears during Jack's black outs. As intense and painful as the last book was in its violence, this has a different sort intensity as we witness Jack reliving his younger years where he is slowly losing control, helped along by his mother and Cutter, alternating with his present state of instability and his attempts to work through them to get himself back to Jan and try to repair the damage he feels he has done to Gray.
This book added so much to the events that have already unfolded and has peeled back a number of Jack's layers. It was fascinating being in Jack's head and I found myself reading slowly to understand the impact of each new revelation on the story so far. If you have been following the series, you do not want to miss this installment which has left me again, eagerly awaiting the next book and hoping that Jack, Jan and Gray can finally find some of the peace they so deserve.
While this book is all Jack, it is given in several different points of view: present day 30 year old Jack undergoing treatment with Dr. Halliday for his various disorders and the fallout from what was done in the last book; teenage Jack, under the influence of Cutter; and Martin, both past and present, who appears during Jack's black outs. As intense and painful as the last book was in its violence, this has a different sort intensity as we witness Jack reliving his younger years where he is slowly losing control, helped along by his mother and Cutter, alternating with his present state of instability and his attempts to work through them to get himself back to Jan and try to repair the damage he feels he has done to Gray.
This book added so much to the events that have already unfolded and has peeled back a number of Jack's layers. It was fascinating being in Jack's head and I found myself reading slowly to understand the impact of each new revelation on the story so far. If you have been following the series, you do not want to miss this installment which has left me again, eagerly awaiting the next book and hoping that Jack, Jan and Gray can finally find some of the peace they so deserve.
December 13, 2015
4.5 Stars
Seriously. I can't even review this. Jack, you're amazing and I love you. This book was pretty much everything I needed. There were so many questions at the end of Antidote and now I know. I wish I had not waited so long to finally read this. I thought I was not ready. I though I'd already been bashed in the head enough with Antidote.
No.
This book was so healing for me. Like I healed with Jack.
I think the only thing I wanted more of was Jan... sweet, sweet Jan.
So, get on it will you? I need Gray Matters. Like, now. Because I want to get back to my boys.
Seriously. I can't even review this. Jack, you're amazing and I love you. This book was pretty much everything I needed. There were so many questions at the end of Antidote and now I know. I wish I had not waited so long to finally read this. I thought I was not ready. I though I'd already been bashed in the head enough with Antidote.
No.
This book was so healing for me. Like I healed with Jack.
I think the only thing I wanted more of was Jan... sweet, sweet Jan.
So, get on it will you? I need Gray Matters. Like, now. Because I want to get back to my boys.
August 24, 2014
Jack L Pyke ripped my heart out with this story. The research she must of undertook to write this ended up with a story that transported me into feeling like it was me that was going through a breakdown, not just reading about a much loved character having these problems.
This concentrated on Jack, and I can say with no hesitation that it suited this fan girl totally, but it also suited this story. Jack had to be the main focus, as this is his story. He couldn't lean on Gray or Jan to get through this. It was something he had to do for himself.
There was quite a bit of Jack and Gray from when they first met, and the truth of Jack is not always a nice thing to have to learn. He was a very troubled teenager, and he made bad choices, but you also realize that he had a loving heart at the same time. His love and respect for his father gives him enough to know how to love as an adult.
Gray and Jan weren't completely forgotten, but the story was made just perfect by the addition of Craig, who is a nurse in the facility that Jack is in. I am sorry that I didn't get to spend more time learning about him.
I love this series, and I adore how this so very talented author has managed to make her characters the kind of men that you can fall in love with, plus a story line that engages all of my emotions.
The next story is from Gray's point of view, and I have mixed feeling about this one, as he isn't a character that I have much love for, but I know that I will love his book anyway, and Jack L Pyke can write about any kind of character, and have me becoming engrossed.
This concentrated on Jack, and I can say with no hesitation that it suited this fan girl totally, but it also suited this story. Jack had to be the main focus, as this is his story. He couldn't lean on Gray or Jan to get through this. It was something he had to do for himself.
There was quite a bit of Jack and Gray from when they first met, and the truth of Jack is not always a nice thing to have to learn. He was a very troubled teenager, and he made bad choices, but you also realize that he had a loving heart at the same time. His love and respect for his father gives him enough to know how to love as an adult.
Gray and Jan weren't completely forgotten, but the story was made just perfect by the addition of Craig, who is a nurse in the facility that Jack is in. I am sorry that I didn't get to spend more time learning about him.
I love this series, and I adore how this so very talented author has managed to make her characters the kind of men that you can fall in love with, plus a story line that engages all of my emotions.
The next story is from Gray's point of view, and I have mixed feeling about this one, as he isn't a character that I have much love for, but I know that I will love his book anyway, and Jack L Pyke can write about any kind of character, and have me becoming engrossed.
January 11, 2015
5 Fucking Peachy Stars! *****
First, the writing is superb. Jack L. Pyke really got into the fucked up mindset of the lead MC Jack Harrison. A dark, brutal and honest read, some parts very hard hitting. This is Jacks journey coping with the aftermath after what happened with Vince etc... and it ends the same place as Antidote (book 2). Jack is sectioned in the MCs Medical facilities, and through the therapy with Dr Halliday we see some hellish flashbacks to when Jack was a teen and we get to understand how some of his disorders and triggers began, and the appearance of -bastard- Martin. I love Jack, he's such a complex character and he's always been my favourite MC right from the beginning. I can't wait to read Gray Matters, it will be interesting reading Grays narrative in third person. Also any Brits reading this book will recognize some of the slang words in there, eg. mukka, cocker, lol.
If you like dark psychological thrillers, I highly recommend it. An excellent series!
First, the writing is superb. Jack L. Pyke really got into the fucked up mindset of the lead MC Jack Harrison. A dark, brutal and honest read, some parts very hard hitting. This is Jacks journey coping with the aftermath after what happened with Vince etc... and it ends the same place as Antidote (book 2). Jack is sectioned in the MCs Medical facilities, and through the therapy with Dr Halliday we see some hellish flashbacks to when Jack was a teen and we get to understand how some of his disorders and triggers began, and the appearance of -bastard- Martin. I love Jack, he's such a complex character and he's always been my favourite MC right from the beginning. I can't wait to read Gray Matters, it will be interesting reading Grays narrative in third person. Also any Brits reading this book will recognize some of the slang words in there, eg. mukka, cocker, lol.
If you like dark psychological thrillers, I highly recommend it. An excellent series!
August 21, 2014
For hardcore fans of the Don't series. Very little in the way of romance per se here. Mostly is about Jack's mental disorders: cause, treatment and recovery. Also there's nothing in terms of advancing the story timeline. This book ends at the same point that Antidote ends.
November 16, 2014
HOLY SHIT!!!! IVE CHANGED MY MIND THIS IS THE BEST ONE SO FAR!!!!
CANT WAIT FOR GREY MATTERS!!! RELEASE DATE PLEASE.................PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE...
JACK JACK JACK... LOVE HIS FUCKED UP MIND!!!
CANT WAIT FOR GREY MATTERS!!! RELEASE DATE PLEASE.................PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE...
JACK JACK JACK... LOVE HIS FUCKED UP MIND!!!
October 27, 2020
Well hell........ How the heck am i meant to review this ??
It's a definite 5 star+++++ read and kept me chained to it from start to finish. Learning the intricate details of Jack's past, how he came to meet Gray and all of his is disorders was absolutely brilliant and i'm so glad that the author gave us this book. Yes the details are hard to read, but, like with any disorder it's part of who Jack is, it's what makes him who he is and why Jan and Gray love him as they do.
The research that Jack L Pyke must have done into each and every one of these disorders shows in this book and makes for it to be one absolutely emotional and thought provoking story !!! I loved how the intensity of it was broken up by "Joe" and loved that we got to see the vulnerable sides of all 3 men showing that even the biggest baddest of doms has a heart that can be broken too. Just pure brilliance !!!
It's a definite 5 star+++++ read and kept me chained to it from start to finish. Learning the intricate details of Jack's past, how he came to meet Gray and all of his is disorders was absolutely brilliant and i'm so glad that the author gave us this book. Yes the details are hard to read, but, like with any disorder it's part of who Jack is, it's what makes him who he is and why Jan and Gray love him as they do.
The research that Jack L Pyke must have done into each and every one of these disorders shows in this book and makes for it to be one absolutely emotional and thought provoking story !!! I loved how the intensity of it was broken up by "Joe" and loved that we got to see the vulnerable sides of all 3 men showing that even the biggest baddest of doms has a heart that can be broken too. Just pure brilliance !!!
October 20, 2019
In the aftermath of Antidote Jack is in serious need of therapy as a sectioned inpatient at the MC psychiatric facility.
Here we go back to Jack's youth, before he met Gray, and the horrors that shaped the PTSD, OCD, DID, ODD, survivor he is now.
This story helps us understand Jack better, how he got to where he is, and is told solely from Jack's pov.
This is five stars for the care and attention to detail of Jack's stay in the care of Dr Halliday and Craig and the brilliant unraveling of Jack's past, and the gaps that needed filling to see the whole man.
I'm now in hangover mode.........
Here we go back to Jack's youth, before he met Gray, and the horrors that shaped the PTSD, OCD, DID, ODD, survivor he is now.
This story helps us understand Jack better, how he got to where he is, and is told solely from Jack's pov.
This is five stars for the care and attention to detail of Jack's stay in the care of Dr Halliday and Craig and the brilliant unraveling of Jack's past, and the gaps that needed filling to see the whole man.
I'm now in hangover mode.........
July 26, 2019
Not at all where I thought this would lead but absolutely loved the insight into this character, his past and his conditions. I truly hope we get more of Craig, and Trace being reintroduced here is quite intriguing.
Desperately need some more of Jan and Gray now. And honestly Martin. I’m so curious to know more.
And alas...I have to wait 48 hours for book 4 to be rereleased. Dang. But I’ve got all the rest bought, loaded and ready. Well...I’m not sure how ready I really am. This will undoubtedly continue to be painful and emotionally taxing at times. Hoping we get some good “tender” moments thrown in as well.
Oh and I still need Jack’s mother to get what is truly coming to her.
Desperately need some more of Jan and Gray now. And honestly Martin. I’m so curious to know more.
And alas...I have to wait 48 hours for book 4 to be rereleased. Dang. But I’ve got all the rest bought, loaded and ready. Well...I’m not sure how ready I really am. This will undoubtedly continue to be painful and emotionally taxing at times. Hoping we get some good “tender” moments thrown in as well.
Oh and I still need Jack’s mother to get what is truly coming to her.
June 27, 2016
Jesus I'm exhausted - this series is intense, harsh and gritty. This book focused on Jack and the traumas in his life, how he was made to look back on events and uncover where the real damage occurred. It was heartbreaking for Jack as he learned more about his exploits and those of Martin, his second identity. I am hoping and praying for Gray & Jan in the finale that peace will come for all three of them ❤️
June 18, 2016
This book covers Jack's enforced stay in a psychiatric unit with flashbacks to his 18 year old self. The events happen prior to the end of book two. Still an intriguing read but I really wanted the story to move on.
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