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Damaged: The V.A.C. Chronicles: Jeneva Blake
Haven Ridge’s golden couple is not as perfect as they’ve led everyone to believe. And now with her sudden long vacations across the country, a fall from the tree she's been climbing her entire life, and unexpectedly breaking up with her long-time boyfriend, small-town football star Brody Garrett, the gossip mills have begun to churn. To top it all off, she’s begging for mythical creatures to come and save her! Clearly, Jeneva Blake has lost her ever-lovin’ mind!
Or has she?
Eva hasn’t been happy at home for a while now and she no longer cares who knows it. After silently suffering through years of abuse from the boy she once loved who has since turned into a controlling monster, she finally finds the courage to escape him, but her freedom comes at a hefty price. But no matter how far she runs, will Brody ever truly allow his girl to slip away?
The friends she made while living with her dad, have given her a taste of how her life could be outside of Brody’s influence and control. A permanent cross-country move that seems insane and extreme to her hometown is exactly what she needs, but how can Jeneva ever truly be safe if she won’t open up to her new support system about everything she’s been through?
Jeneva's transformation from sweet, abused, and meek Jenny to a stronger, powerful, and more outspoken Eva is explored through her relationships with nine key characters (including herself) who do their best to either help or hinder her on her journey. Each chapter changes perspective, giving you a deeper insight into the story as each character shares their experience and the insight they had to offer as they played their pivotal roles in Jeneva’s journey.
CONTENT WARNING: I do not want to discourage anyone from reading this story. Just please be advised this book contains abuse, trauma, attempted and past acknowledgment of rape, kidnapping, assault, stalking, and narcissism.
Or has she?
Eva hasn’t been happy at home for a while now and she no longer cares who knows it. After silently suffering through years of abuse from the boy she once loved who has since turned into a controlling monster, she finally finds the courage to escape him, but her freedom comes at a hefty price. But no matter how far she runs, will Brody ever truly allow his girl to slip away?
The friends she made while living with her dad, have given her a taste of how her life could be outside of Brody’s influence and control. A permanent cross-country move that seems insane and extreme to her hometown is exactly what she needs, but how can Jeneva ever truly be safe if she won’t open up to her new support system about everything she’s been through?
Jeneva's transformation from sweet, abused, and meek Jenny to a stronger, powerful, and more outspoken Eva is explored through her relationships with nine key characters (including herself) who do their best to either help or hinder her on her journey. Each chapter changes perspective, giving you a deeper insight into the story as each character shares their experience and the insight they had to offer as they played their pivotal roles in Jeneva’s journey.
CONTENT WARNING: I do not want to discourage anyone from reading this story. Just please be advised this book contains abuse, trauma, attempted and past acknowledgment of rape, kidnapping, assault, stalking, and narcissism.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 25, 2019
6 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Graceli Kaye
8 books35 followersGraceli has been a lifelong writer. She began in 5th grade as a way to process and deal with issues by using her creativity. Over the years, she continued to write until some seemingly unrelated storylines began to intertwine to the point that they couldn’t be separated, and that’s when The VAC Chronicles were born. Some of the stories in the series have already been published, and she has countless more in the works with hopes to bring them to you soon.
When she is not working or spending time with her family, Graceli can be found absorbed in her world, writing the next book or books in the series. She currently lives in Maryland with her two adorable kids and awesome husband while surviving on caffeine drinks, kitty cuddles, and Zumba.
Find out more at www.thevacchronicles.wordpress.com
When she is not working or spending time with her family, Graceli can be found absorbed in her world, writing the next book or books in the series. She currently lives in Maryland with her two adorable kids and awesome husband while surviving on caffeine drinks, kitty cuddles, and Zumba.
Find out more at www.thevacchronicles.wordpress.com
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 4, 2020
Serious book with a great ending!
I thought this book was a wonderful read, couldn’t put it down! There where serious subjects talked about but what better way then in between high school and college!
I thought this book was a wonderful read, couldn’t put it down! There where serious subjects talked about but what better way then in between high school and college!
October 11, 2021
The VAC Chronicles are a series of books, new adult drama, whose characters are connected through the fictitious university of Valessia-Anders College.
Geneva Blake is the protagonist of Damaged. She experiences trauma and, during the course of the story, a transforming life change. The book includes multi-character perspectives, written in first person. This approach provides unique and in-depth insight into each character. This emotion-provoking story is intense, involving serious topics of abuse and trauma. The writing is forthright and brutally honest.
Damaged is unlike any book I've ever read. The captivating and complicated characters could easily star in the next Netflix or Amazon Prime original series.
Geneva Blake is the protagonist of Damaged. She experiences trauma and, during the course of the story, a transforming life change. The book includes multi-character perspectives, written in first person. This approach provides unique and in-depth insight into each character. This emotion-provoking story is intense, involving serious topics of abuse and trauma. The writing is forthright and brutally honest.
Damaged is unlike any book I've ever read. The captivating and complicated characters could easily star in the next Netflix or Amazon Prime original series.
February 3, 2024
emotional story.
Eva’s story broke my heart a few times. The story does touch in some sensitive and hard subjects. Thankfully she had a tribe of people to help her. Some scenes made me laugh. I loved the nicknames all the characters have. It’s a big group and I liked all of them. Skye was great. Surprisingly, I found myself worried about a character I’m not sure we were meant to worry over. At first I didn’t like Asha-Lynn. By the end of the book I was hoping she got away from it all and found a better life.
Eva’s story broke my heart a few times. The story does touch in some sensitive and hard subjects. Thankfully she had a tribe of people to help her. Some scenes made me laugh. I loved the nicknames all the characters have. It’s a big group and I liked all of them. Skye was great. Surprisingly, I found myself worried about a character I’m not sure we were meant to worry over. At first I didn’t like Asha-Lynn. By the end of the book I was hoping she got away from it all and found a better life.
September 9, 2020
After reading Forgotten, and loving it, I had to read Damaged. Well, I can tell you it did not disappoint at all. It's true, it's not the kind of book I am used to, but once I started reading it, that stopped mattering, I fell in love with the characters, the story, and the friendships along the way. Some of the themes can be harder to read, but Graceli Kaye treated them with so much truth and respect you couldn't help but put yourself in the characters' shoes and cheer them on.
Eva has had a troubled and hard past when she decides to move away to Anders to be with her father and true friends. With their help, she finds there is more to life and herself and that true love in its many forms can be found with the right group of people. And they will be the ones who will have your back, will love you no matter what, and will help you become the best version of yourself.
After finishing reading the story, I couldn't help but want to move to Anders, have a group of friends just like Eva's, and find a lasting love that will love you in your best days and in your worst days, making sure that you know how special and cherished you are. And I obviously need to find a Skye and Josh of my own!!
Eva has had a troubled and hard past when she decides to move away to Anders to be with her father and true friends. With their help, she finds there is more to life and herself and that true love in its many forms can be found with the right group of people. And they will be the ones who will have your back, will love you no matter what, and will help you become the best version of yourself.
After finishing reading the story, I couldn't help but want to move to Anders, have a group of friends just like Eva's, and find a lasting love that will love you in your best days and in your worst days, making sure that you know how special and cherished you are. And I obviously need to find a Skye and Josh of my own!!
August 22, 2024
"Get Cari the Unicorn, Maui, Furie, & Thor. They'll know what to do! The bad thing was here again last night! I think the gnome stole my virginity!" No, those aren't stuffed animals or cartoon characters, not in teenager Jeneva Blake's world. They exist! Jeneva is hospitalized for a week with a shattered pelvis, courtesy of her ex-boyfriend, Brody, and in excruciating pain. She's desperately trying to communicate with her brother, Evan, to rally the troops, but he won't listen, doesn't know what or who these mystical creatures are or how to find them. Nobody is listening about what really happened!
Before Brody pushed her from two stories high, Jeneva had already planned to escape back to her dad and these friends--REAL human Friends--in Anders. She wants to attend V.A.C.--Valessia-Anders College, but now she's laying in a hospital bed, badly damaged. If only twins really did have telepathic powers, and the nurse wouldn't keep sedating her. Is she in cohorts with Brody, trying to kidnap her in Haven Ridge, Virginia?
Her mother and hospital staff chalk up her gibberish to the morphine drip, but she's more clear-headed than they are! Why won't they listen?
It's heartbreaking and infuriates me when parents/loved ones don't believe their offspring when they say they're being abused. Why would they lie? Mom won't believe Brody can do harm because he's her best friend's son. But her own daughter should count more.
Graceli Kay is a fantastic writer. This is a well-written, creative spin on rising above trauma with realistic, modern dialogue that flows smoothly. I don't like reading about abuse, rape and disturbing topics but this portrays how strong and resourceful Jeneva really is. Will she succeed in becoming just "Eva" again back in Anders with her dad and friends where she feels safe?
Before Brody pushed her from two stories high, Jeneva had already planned to escape back to her dad and these friends--REAL human Friends--in Anders. She wants to attend V.A.C.--Valessia-Anders College, but now she's laying in a hospital bed, badly damaged. If only twins really did have telepathic powers, and the nurse wouldn't keep sedating her. Is she in cohorts with Brody, trying to kidnap her in Haven Ridge, Virginia?
Her mother and hospital staff chalk up her gibberish to the morphine drip, but she's more clear-headed than they are! Why won't they listen?
It's heartbreaking and infuriates me when parents/loved ones don't believe their offspring when they say they're being abused. Why would they lie? Mom won't believe Brody can do harm because he's her best friend's son. But her own daughter should count more.
Graceli Kay is a fantastic writer. This is a well-written, creative spin on rising above trauma with realistic, modern dialogue that flows smoothly. I don't like reading about abuse, rape and disturbing topics but this portrays how strong and resourceful Jeneva really is. Will she succeed in becoming just "Eva" again back in Anders with her dad and friends where she feels safe?
November 27, 2024
"Damaged" by Graceli Kaye is an engaging and heartfelt story that balances humor and serious themes beautifully.
I loved the way Eva’s friends took painful moments from her life and transformed them into something positive, helping her desensitize from the hurt and build new, uplifting memories. Eva herself is a kind-hearted protagonist with an exceptional support system of fiercely protective friends, all of whom are vividly portrayed with relatable flaws. I especially appreciated how each character carried their own damage, creating a deeply supportive and understanding group dynamic.
The romantic tension between Eva, Skye, and Josh was perfectly executed—clear enough to follow, yet leaving just enough question in the reader’s mind to keep things interesting. The toxic relationships in Eva’s life, particularly with her mother and Brody, were portrayed in a way that felt authentic and raw, making her journey toward self-acceptance and breaking free incredibly satisfying.
The tone struck a perfect balance, blending humor with serious moments. The plot was equally engaging, keeping me guessing about when and how Brody would strike again. It’s a book that readers will enjoy for its exploration of teen angst, real-life struggles that don’t get addressed enough, finding love, and learning to move on from toxicity.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy emotional depth paired with humor and strong, complex characters!
I loved the way Eva’s friends took painful moments from her life and transformed them into something positive, helping her desensitize from the hurt and build new, uplifting memories. Eva herself is a kind-hearted protagonist with an exceptional support system of fiercely protective friends, all of whom are vividly portrayed with relatable flaws. I especially appreciated how each character carried their own damage, creating a deeply supportive and understanding group dynamic.
The romantic tension between Eva, Skye, and Josh was perfectly executed—clear enough to follow, yet leaving just enough question in the reader’s mind to keep things interesting. The toxic relationships in Eva’s life, particularly with her mother and Brody, were portrayed in a way that felt authentic and raw, making her journey toward self-acceptance and breaking free incredibly satisfying.
The tone struck a perfect balance, blending humor with serious moments. The plot was equally engaging, keeping me guessing about when and how Brody would strike again. It’s a book that readers will enjoy for its exploration of teen angst, real-life struggles that don’t get addressed enough, finding love, and learning to move on from toxicity.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy emotional depth paired with humor and strong, complex characters!
February 22, 2025
I am always looking for something more real in my books, not just escapism. A friend suggested Damaged by Graceli Kaye. I gave it a shot and am glad I did
This heartfelt and engaging story deals in complex and quite real themes while weaving humor throughout. Reminiscent of my all time favorite author.
Eva’s journey, through friendships, transforms painful moments from her life into something positive. In this way she heals from the hurt and builds new memories. This resonates and scans with my present experience and that is the sort of book I am looking for.
The use of a beautiful, if slightly flawed, protagonist who has fiercely loyal to and protective friends is another reason this book is now in my top ten modern novels.
There is even a romantic undercurrent that will appeal to those seeking such in a book. Romance as a healing force after being forced through savage relationships is another big plus for me.
With well defined and deep characters, a gripping plot, and enough humor infusion to break up the darkness, I highly recommend this novel.
This heartfelt and engaging story deals in complex and quite real themes while weaving humor throughout. Reminiscent of my all time favorite author.
Eva’s journey, through friendships, transforms painful moments from her life into something positive. In this way she heals from the hurt and builds new memories. This resonates and scans with my present experience and that is the sort of book I am looking for.
The use of a beautiful, if slightly flawed, protagonist who has fiercely loyal to and protective friends is another reason this book is now in my top ten modern novels.
There is even a romantic undercurrent that will appeal to those seeking such in a book. Romance as a healing force after being forced through savage relationships is another big plus for me.
With well defined and deep characters, a gripping plot, and enough humor infusion to break up the darkness, I highly recommend this novel.
November 1, 2024
This story is gut wrenching. As a survivor I had to take breaks reading this at first. It was all so strong through Graceli's writing.
The trials Eva has to endure to find not only herself but her voice, her path and the strength to move forward.
I love the multi-POV Graceli does a great job of making each character unique along with their view of the world around them. Reading Brody's parts made me want to laugh and rage all at the same time. I bet that really is how they are though, sadly.
I fell in love with each of these amazing characters. I cannot wait to read more for the VAC group. I cannot wait to see what Skye has in store for Josh as revenge. I want to know what happens with Evan! I will be picking up the next book soon.
The words of the author in the Afterward hit home and I am thankful she wrote this story, because it did have to be told by her and could only be told by Graceli. Thank you so much for sharing this story with the world.
The trials Eva has to endure to find not only herself but her voice, her path and the strength to move forward.
I love the multi-POV Graceli does a great job of making each character unique along with their view of the world around them. Reading Brody's parts made me want to laugh and rage all at the same time. I bet that really is how they are though, sadly.
I fell in love with each of these amazing characters. I cannot wait to read more for the VAC group. I cannot wait to see what Skye has in store for Josh as revenge. I want to know what happens with Evan! I will be picking up the next book soon.
The words of the author in the Afterward hit home and I am thankful she wrote this story, because it did have to be told by her and could only be told by Graceli. Thank you so much for sharing this story with the world.
October 10, 2024
A big step beyond average
After so many reviews promoting the fraility of life, it was wonderful to read a book that highlights real issues and the person who moves beyond them. Abuse, be it verbal or physical is a bigger problem then most realize. This book handles the situation realistically while still offering an entertaining and uplifting story filled with powerful supporting charecters and a interesting plot. Plus just the right amount of romance. A positive, heart warming novel I happily recomend. It does contain triggers but most realistic stories do.
After so many reviews promoting the fraility of life, it was wonderful to read a book that highlights real issues and the person who moves beyond them. Abuse, be it verbal or physical is a bigger problem then most realize. This book handles the situation realistically while still offering an entertaining and uplifting story filled with powerful supporting charecters and a interesting plot. Plus just the right amount of romance. A positive, heart warming novel I happily recomend. It does contain triggers but most realistic stories do.
December 28, 2024
When it comes to real friends, Jeneva Blake has the best of the best. She also has a boyfriend who doesn’t know how to treat human being’s appropriately. Brody Garrett is a monster of the first order.
It’s easy to be a reader and have a love/hate relationship with the
characters of this book. And there are a lot of characters! They carry this book through the horrors of
mistreatment and fixation.
We are able to see all sides, which is an interesting dynamic in this book. Once you learn who everyone is, it’s easy to fall down the rabbit hole of this tale.
It’s easy to be a reader and have a love/hate relationship with the
characters of this book. And there are a lot of characters! They carry this book through the horrors of
mistreatment and fixation.
We are able to see all sides, which is an interesting dynamic in this book. Once you learn who everyone is, it’s easy to fall down the rabbit hole of this tale.
November 29, 2023
Making the difficult choices
This story is a difficult read because of all of the trauma the FMC has experienced. The characters are well developed and the story, while heartbreaking, does have a happy ever after. It’s a tribute to the survivors and for those who need someone to believe them and believe IN them.
There are serious adult themes, and the abuse is difficult to read. Be prepared for that.
This story is a difficult read because of all of the trauma the FMC has experienced. The characters are well developed and the story, while heartbreaking, does have a happy ever after. It’s a tribute to the survivors and for those who need someone to believe them and believe IN them.
There are serious adult themes, and the abuse is difficult to read. Be prepared for that.
July 11, 2023
I love a book where you can really hate the bad guy, this is one of those books and then you have the added bonus of a mean girl who you can hate and hope she gets what's coming to her. This is a story of bad decisions, terrible consequences and how with help and great friends you can survive and move on. enjoyed this story.
October 17, 2023
Sensational
One of my favourite tropes is trauma and healing. Graceli did an amazing job at bringing this to life. Having the multiple point of views gave a deeper understanding of all the characters, which I felt was brilliant. Will definitely be continuing this series.
One of my favourite tropes is trauma and healing. Graceli did an amazing job at bringing this to life. Having the multiple point of views gave a deeper understanding of all the characters, which I felt was brilliant. Will definitely be continuing this series.
March 8, 2020
Graceli does a wonderful job of bringing of important subject matters that other authors won’t touch! She also has a special way to always come out with a happy ending! 😍
February 16, 2024
Wow!
This was a tearjerker! It had it's fun moments and quirky characters but ultimately I was moved by Eva's story and her inner strength. Wow!
This was a tearjerker! It had it's fun moments and quirky characters but ultimately I was moved by Eva's story and her inner strength. Wow!
May 19, 2025
A beautifully written story about a girl who with the help of true friends is able to find her voice and rise from the ashes of a victim to become a survivor.
October 1, 2023
Gripping
I opened this book day before yesterday. Within the pages of the first chapter my heart belonged immersed in this story. I only put it down later that day to take care of my family. I had planned to stay up and finish it all night, but life happened. I immersed myself in this 10 star novel first thing this morning. This astonishing tale of resilience is a must read. It’s gripping, emotional, and beautifully written. I’m excited to read book two but can’t imagine how it can top this book that’s definitely going to stay with me.
I opened this book day before yesterday. Within the pages of the first chapter my heart belonged immersed in this story. I only put it down later that day to take care of my family. I had planned to stay up and finish it all night, but life happened. I immersed myself in this 10 star novel first thing this morning. This astonishing tale of resilience is a must read. It’s gripping, emotional, and beautifully written. I’m excited to read book two but can’t imagine how it can top this book that’s definitely going to stay with me.
March 30, 2024
Emotional
I must say, it was a captivating and emotionally charged read. The story delves into the complexities of human relationships and the impact of past traumas on present-day lives. The characters were well-developed and the plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. Gracelli Kaye's writing style is engaging and evocative, making it easy to immerse myself in the story. Overall, "Damaged" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a compelling read.
I must say, it was a captivating and emotionally charged read. The story delves into the complexities of human relationships and the impact of past traumas on present-day lives. The characters were well-developed and the plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. Gracelli Kaye's writing style is engaging and evocative, making it easy to immerse myself in the story. Overall, "Damaged" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a compelling read.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews