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The Relationship Quo #6
The Love that Hurts: A Story of Domestic Violence
Includes a bonus chapter and a Q&A with the author at the end of the story!
Josefina: My story isn’t sweet or easy to hear. It’s the truth. A brutal truth anyone you know could be living through right now. I’m the person people talk about, asking, “Why does she stay?”
My story will tell you why. It will tell you how it starts, where it leads. When does it end or will it ever?
This is a different side of love, a darker, and deadly side that isn’t always discussed. People think it can’t be love, that it starts with pain.
Trust me, it starts with love. A love that hurts.
Ridge: Because if love doesn’t hurt, it can’t be real.
*This book contains strong language, violence, and graphic descriptions of domestic abuse. Please read with caution.
Only for readers 18 years and up.
Josefina: My story isn’t sweet or easy to hear. It’s the truth. A brutal truth anyone you know could be living through right now. I’m the person people talk about, asking, “Why does she stay?”
My story will tell you why. It will tell you how it starts, where it leads. When does it end or will it ever?
This is a different side of love, a darker, and deadly side that isn’t always discussed. People think it can’t be love, that it starts with pain.
Trust me, it starts with love. A love that hurts.
Ridge: Because if love doesn’t hurt, it can’t be real.
*This book contains strong language, violence, and graphic descriptions of domestic abuse. Please read with caution.
Only for readers 18 years and up.
544 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2019
114 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Strycharz
28 books425 followersNicole is a multi-genre author of over a dozen books.
"The Divorce" was nominated in the 2016 Indie Book Awards and won second place in the 2016 Best Cover Design in 'Urban Literature Magazine.'
She was featured on the cover of Words + Magazine for her book "The Affair."
She’s known for delving into sensitive and real topics such as in her title “The Love That Hurts” which explored domestic violence with the hopes of giving victims a voice while exposing the red flags of an abusive relationship. Most of her lead female characters are depicted as survivors or evolving overcomers of trauma. Sending a message to readers that every moment and every day they fight for is a victory.
Being of mixed ethnicity, she keeps her cast of characters diverse and tries to highlight the different cultures around the world.
Aside from writing, she runs a tarot and rune reading business called, Nikki The Solitary Witch. Interpreting the cards and stones for others, she offers a little clarity to her clients so they can face their path with a little extra confidence.
Nicole lives in Virginia with her family and one pretty Pocket-Pittie. She is always reading or working on the next book between mommyhood adventures.
"The Divorce" was nominated in the 2016 Indie Book Awards and won second place in the 2016 Best Cover Design in 'Urban Literature Magazine.'
She was featured on the cover of Words + Magazine for her book "The Affair."
She’s known for delving into sensitive and real topics such as in her title “The Love That Hurts” which explored domestic violence with the hopes of giving victims a voice while exposing the red flags of an abusive relationship. Most of her lead female characters are depicted as survivors or evolving overcomers of trauma. Sending a message to readers that every moment and every day they fight for is a victory.
Being of mixed ethnicity, she keeps her cast of characters diverse and tries to highlight the different cultures around the world.
Aside from writing, she runs a tarot and rune reading business called, Nikki The Solitary Witch. Interpreting the cards and stones for others, she offers a little clarity to her clients so they can face their path with a little extra confidence.
Nicole lives in Virginia with her family and one pretty Pocket-Pittie. She is always reading or working on the next book between mommyhood adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
December 23, 2020
“The question isn’t why does she stay? It should be, how do i help her find the strength to leave?”
The love that hurt is a book which focuses on domestic abuse and the psychology behind it. It showed it all, the ugly, the pretty, the conflict, the beatings, the fear and the love. But is this love? I’ll leave it to you to decide.
The heroine was sassy and a confident woman at the beginning but oh how quickly this changed with our manipulative “hero”. He did it so smoothly, isolating her from her family, friends and even her job that she had nobody to ask for help. He filled every role there was to fill a friend, a lover, a brother and eventually became an emotional and physical abuser.
Its not what I would usually go for but I’m happy I picked it up. What I didn’t like was there was no (descriptive) sex in this book. I know the book isn’t supposed to be a romance but i think if there was, it would add to the mind fuckery of it all. Overall a great book with a good showing of toxic and abusive relationship and it’s red flags.
The love that hurt is a book which focuses on domestic abuse and the psychology behind it. It showed it all, the ugly, the pretty, the conflict, the beatings, the fear and the love. But is this love? I’ll leave it to you to decide.
The heroine was sassy and a confident woman at the beginning but oh how quickly this changed with our manipulative “hero”. He did it so smoothly, isolating her from her family, friends and even her job that she had nobody to ask for help. He filled every role there was to fill a friend, a lover, a brother and eventually became an emotional and physical abuser.
Its not what I would usually go for but I’m happy I picked it up. What I didn’t like was there was no (descriptive) sex in this book. I know the book isn’t supposed to be a romance but i think if there was, it would add to the mind fuckery of it all. Overall a great book with a good showing of toxic and abusive relationship and it’s red flags.
September 21, 2019
I have a strong stomach. Those closest to me can attest that I can be as tough as nails. So, when I read a book like this one and find myself sobbing irrationally within the first few paragraphs, well, I can safely say that I may have bitten off more than I can chew.
"I'm doing this because I love you..." the words that set their story in motion.
Josefina and Ridge's story begins "On The Day of the Dead," how darkly and forbiddenly appropriate. Their first meeting is as most of the story goes...intense and frightening with the sense that you're about to fall over the edge of a cliff with nothing to grab on to for safety.
The writing is lush, atmospheric and deep. It almost feels as if you've just spotted an oasis in the middle of a desert that you've been travelling for weeks. You can't help but rush over to it and dip your toes in only to realize too late that it was a mirage and you're in quicksand. With every chapter, every offense committed in the name of "love", you find yourself sinking deeper and deeper into its pull. At first if feels like you can easily pull yourself free, but soon you are struggling, panicked because you know you're going under. You know the quicksand is taking you and you simply succumb to it.
Ms. Strycharz is a magician of words. She skillfully takes one of the most difficult situations anyone could be put into and navigates its dark waters with sheer perfection. I won't lie to you; this book in NOT for the faint of heart. Her portrayal of domestic abuse is so frank and brash it is difficult to read at times without cringing. It is so heartbreaking you want to scream, cry, hurl expletives at the wind, anything that might help you cope, but that quicksand is still sucking you down. The writing is so deceptive in its beauty that you can't help but WANT your heart to be broken over and over, and trust me, it WILL break. The characters are so real and raw that once the story comes to an end you feel as though you have suffered a tremendous loss with them.
I hope I haven't deterred you from purchasing this book. That was not my intention. But please, do know what you're getting into. The trigger warnings are there for a reason. However, if you are brave enough to dive in, it will be worth every beautiful, terrible, seductive, heartbreaking word, I promise.
Well done, Ms. Strycharz. You have truly outdone yourself.
"I'm doing this because I love you..." the words that set their story in motion.
Josefina and Ridge's story begins "On The Day of the Dead," how darkly and forbiddenly appropriate. Their first meeting is as most of the story goes...intense and frightening with the sense that you're about to fall over the edge of a cliff with nothing to grab on to for safety.
The writing is lush, atmospheric and deep. It almost feels as if you've just spotted an oasis in the middle of a desert that you've been travelling for weeks. You can't help but rush over to it and dip your toes in only to realize too late that it was a mirage and you're in quicksand. With every chapter, every offense committed in the name of "love", you find yourself sinking deeper and deeper into its pull. At first if feels like you can easily pull yourself free, but soon you are struggling, panicked because you know you're going under. You know the quicksand is taking you and you simply succumb to it.
Ms. Strycharz is a magician of words. She skillfully takes one of the most difficult situations anyone could be put into and navigates its dark waters with sheer perfection. I won't lie to you; this book in NOT for the faint of heart. Her portrayal of domestic abuse is so frank and brash it is difficult to read at times without cringing. It is so heartbreaking you want to scream, cry, hurl expletives at the wind, anything that might help you cope, but that quicksand is still sucking you down. The writing is so deceptive in its beauty that you can't help but WANT your heart to be broken over and over, and trust me, it WILL break. The characters are so real and raw that once the story comes to an end you feel as though you have suffered a tremendous loss with them.
I hope I haven't deterred you from purchasing this book. That was not my intention. But please, do know what you're getting into. The trigger warnings are there for a reason. However, if you are brave enough to dive in, it will be worth every beautiful, terrible, seductive, heartbreaking word, I promise.
Well done, Ms. Strycharz. You have truly outdone yourself.
September 28, 2020
4 bloodshot sobbing eyes stars ⭐
I was expecting something so dark and painful that I wouldn't finish reading the book but it isn't like that. Realistic would be a more appropriate word for this book.
The h is shown as a adrenaline junkie bruh girl in the beginning of the book. But her transition from fearless to a flinching afraid girl is written in such a good way.
The H is a fucking sadistic bastard.
Honestly I liked the ending. I was so afraid that it would be one of those kind where the abuser magically transforms and becomes better and the h goes back to him. No she here fought and SURVIVED so beautifully.
I adored Nicole Strycharz after reading 'The Affair'
Fell in love with her with 'The Divorce'
And worshiped her with This book.
I was expecting something so dark and painful that I wouldn't finish reading the book but it isn't like that. Realistic would be a more appropriate word for this book.
The h is shown as a adrenaline junkie bruh girl in the beginning of the book. But her transition from fearless to a flinching afraid girl is written in such a good way.
The H is a fucking sadistic bastard.
Honestly I liked the ending. I was so afraid that it would be one of those kind where the abuser magically transforms and becomes better and the h goes back to him. No she here fought and SURVIVED so beautifully.
I adored Nicole Strycharz after reading 'The Affair'
Fell in love with her with 'The Divorce'
And worshiped her with This book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2020
Wow... Nicole Strycharz is one hell of a story teller!
Being a survivor of domestic abuse at a young age. This book really hit home for me. The way the author told Josefina’s story sent literally chills throughout my body. I’m completely blown away & love every heartbreaking moment in this book.
Being a survivor of domestic abuse at a young age. This book really hit home for me. The way the author told Josefina’s story sent literally chills throughout my body. I’m completely blown away & love every heartbreaking moment in this book.
March 2, 2020
Rating: 5++++++++++++ Stars
My absolute favorite book of 2020 so far!!!! This was the complex story of Ridge and Josefina. When I started reading this book, I was prepared for super dark, but it was not too bad. The main focus of the book was dedicated to the complex relationship between Josefina and Ridge, not the violence. Thank goodness!
I absolutely loved both characters. When an author can make me feel so many things for the anti-hero, that is a good thing. Throughout every page I was fighting for this couple. I wanted and needed for them to work their sh*t out. While most books like this focus on the violence, this gave us a glimpse into why women stay and what influence the people on the outside have (positive and negative). This is a book I would definitely read again. BRAVO!!
My absolute favorite book of 2020 so far!!!! This was the complex story of Ridge and Josefina. When I started reading this book, I was prepared for super dark, but it was not too bad. The main focus of the book was dedicated to the complex relationship between Josefina and Ridge, not the violence. Thank goodness!
I absolutely loved both characters. When an author can make me feel so many things for the anti-hero, that is a good thing. Throughout every page I was fighting for this couple. I wanted and needed for them to work their sh*t out. While most books like this focus on the violence, this gave us a glimpse into why women stay and what influence the people on the outside have (positive and negative). This is a book I would definitely read again. BRAVO!!
October 25, 2022
Intense and Heartbreaking
Ridge definitely followed in his father's footsteps as far as abuse went. In a way I didn't like Josephina's dare devil ways. She was a hardcore adrenaline junkie. It just felt like she was tempting death over and over.
Ridge new exactly what he was doing when he pursued Josephina. He saw her as the "one who could take it", what ever she dished out. Ridge got off way to easy, 4 years for abuse, drug trafficking, etc? I'd like to know what state that was.... He was out way to soon. Can't believe he showed up at that speech and had the nerve to touch her.
I knew she would end up with who she did. Too bad she didn't choose him first.
Ridge definitely followed in his father's footsteps as far as abuse went. In a way I didn't like Josephina's dare devil ways. She was a hardcore adrenaline junkie. It just felt like she was tempting death over and over.
Ridge new exactly what he was doing when he pursued Josephina. He saw her as the "one who could take it", what ever she dished out. Ridge got off way to easy, 4 years for abuse, drug trafficking, etc? I'd like to know what state that was.... He was out way to soon. Can't believe he showed up at that speech and had the nerve to touch her.
I knew she would end up with who she did. Too bad she didn't choose him first.
October 14, 2019
Love shouldn't hurt but sometimes it does. You don't know a persons walk until you walk a mile in their in their shoes. There are so many sayings that can be said. So much love and support that can be given. So much pain that has no release, help, support, escape. It's so easy to judge and say what you would or wouldn't do, but you have no clue. You can't change their mind. You can't make the decision for them. One foot in front of the other, has to become the mantra that keeps them going, because it isn't just women is it?
This isn't an easy read. These aren't just characters this is someones life. Someone you know. Someone who needs your support. They need to know they aren't alone. They don't need judgement or pity. This author brings it all out but she doesn't do it sparingly. She brings us not one but both pov's. She doesn't make it sweet and fanciful, she makes it down and dirty, hard and ugly. The writing will open your eyes in ways you wish it didn't. It will explain things you don't want to understand. It will haunt you long after the last word is read. This is the story of the man and woman who loved so deeply. The story of a man who thought, no more than that, he knew that true love hurt and that would never change.
This isn't an easy read. These aren't just characters this is someones life. Someone you know. Someone who needs your support. They need to know they aren't alone. They don't need judgement or pity. This author brings it all out but she doesn't do it sparingly. She brings us not one but both pov's. She doesn't make it sweet and fanciful, she makes it down and dirty, hard and ugly. The writing will open your eyes in ways you wish it didn't. It will explain things you don't want to understand. It will haunt you long after the last word is read. This is the story of the man and woman who loved so deeply. The story of a man who thought, no more than that, he knew that true love hurt and that would never change.
December 8, 2023
I would have liked to read more about how his relationship with Moss came to be 😭😭😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2021
Completely unforgettable and highly recommended!
September 24, 2019
It wouldn’t be me.
If those things start happening I’d be out of there.
No way I’d put up with that he’d be out the door.
Sound familiar?
Sounds like something we’ve all said/heard at one point or another, right?
What if you can’t though? What If the feeling of that first hit has you so dumbfounded that you make that first lie about the bruising and your thought process is, this isn’t how he is something must have happened.
Have you ever been to frightened to breathe incase it’s too loud.
Have you ever been so scared that when that time is nearing your boyfriend/husband is due home and your whole body starts to ache.
Have you ever been so terrified that they’ve called or text you that you wish you could just die then and there that you didn’t answer it reply quick enough because you know already how this is going to play out when you get home.
The questions
The accusations
The thought of will it happen again.
You see these kinds of people know from the get go how this relationship is going to go, when you think you’ve made decisions or suggestions on something, you haven’t you just think you have.
The friends who fall away the family who you feel have disconnected with you.
Love is suppose to be warmth comfort connected trusting loving and amazing,
Love can be blinding for sure
Love can be soul crushingly beautiful being in your own bubble.
But what happens when that bubble bursts?
Love should never hurt and ache in your bones in ways you have to lie.
Love should never make you feel alone and make excuses about how you’re in pain, how you have bruising, Again this is all like a chess game.
Only in this game there’s only one player....
right from the very first day.
The thing I love about Nicole’s books there’s a purpose and a reason, nothing’s in there for shock value. She writes about the honesty of the life’s people like me and you could easily fall into, the good the bad & the real!
I’m so proud of you for tackling a story like this and giving it your all, I know how hard this one was.
If those things start happening I’d be out of there.
No way I’d put up with that he’d be out the door.
Sound familiar?
Sounds like something we’ve all said/heard at one point or another, right?
What if you can’t though? What If the feeling of that first hit has you so dumbfounded that you make that first lie about the bruising and your thought process is, this isn’t how he is something must have happened.
Have you ever been to frightened to breathe incase it’s too loud.
Have you ever been so scared that when that time is nearing your boyfriend/husband is due home and your whole body starts to ache.
Have you ever been so terrified that they’ve called or text you that you wish you could just die then and there that you didn’t answer it reply quick enough because you know already how this is going to play out when you get home.
The questions
The accusations
The thought of will it happen again.
You see these kinds of people know from the get go how this relationship is going to go, when you think you’ve made decisions or suggestions on something, you haven’t you just think you have.
The friends who fall away the family who you feel have disconnected with you.
Love is suppose to be warmth comfort connected trusting loving and amazing,
Love can be blinding for sure
Love can be soul crushingly beautiful being in your own bubble.
But what happens when that bubble bursts?
Love should never hurt and ache in your bones in ways you have to lie.
Love should never make you feel alone and make excuses about how you’re in pain, how you have bruising, Again this is all like a chess game.
Only in this game there’s only one player....
right from the very first day.
The thing I love about Nicole’s books there’s a purpose and a reason, nothing’s in there for shock value. She writes about the honesty of the life’s people like me and you could easily fall into, the good the bad & the real!
I’m so proud of you for tackling a story like this and giving it your all, I know how hard this one was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2020
This book....god. I loved it so, so much. It was so realistically written I couldn't help but connect to it. There were times I went from 'I hope Ridge sorts his shit out because I really think he and Josefina have a chance' to 'Please just fucking toss Ridge off a fucking bridge'. It had me hurt, pissed , happy and intrigued. It had me ask questions like 'Why the fuck can't Josefina just divorce him?' when I had the answer all along. Despite how abusive Ridge was there were times he was just...human and she believed that as long as that small part of him existed, she could stick with him and somehow make it work .And Ridge...god there were times when even I believed that he was capable of change...that's just how fucking manipulative he was. All those red flags: forcing her to dress a certain way, making sure she spoke to only people he deemed worthy, the obsessive calls, marrying her wayyyyyy before they even properly knew each other....like goddamned even I missed them (honestly I can't believe I fell for his BS reasoning...am I that fucking gullible? answer- YES).The fact that Josefina , someone who didn't take shit from anyone, someone who faced such violent domestic abuse and still refused to leave her husband showed how messed up the situation was. How even the strongest minded of us can fall prey to delusions. Because that's what this was...this whole relationship...it only revolved around delusions and denial. Josefina's deluded mind set on this relationship working out and Ridge changing for the better, her denial on how Ridge was bad for her .But man that ending....god I LOVED it. And as much as this book messed with my head it's ending left me more than satisfied.(LOL ,what a slap of reality to Ridge's face)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2024
I don’t fully enjoy the book, but I give it 5 stars purely for the bonus chapter alone. As a domestic violence survivor, I can’t emphasize hard enough how many times I was asked, “Why don’t you just leave?” And the last chapter pretty much summed that all up. I really wish people who have wondered that would read it, so I’ll give the book 5 stars.
Now, on to why I didn’t enjoy it as much.
I gotta be frank; Josefina was unlikeable. Heck, she bordered on being a bitch, and that was my impression of her before she got involved with Ridge. Sure, you can be a cool kid, daredevil, yada yada, but she was also a whole lot of rude. And in the beginning, when she climbed up the roof to question him about the kiss but ended up sort of flipping out? That’s just... I don’t even know what to call it. Self-entitled?
As someone who’s gone through what she did (not to the point I was at death’s door, but 3 years of hell was long enough for me to want to die) & read through it, I can’t deny I had moments when I wished she could “just leave” too. But I understood why she stayed. I understood the fear of retaliation, and at the end of the book, I was glad to see her character development. I’m glad she made it out, even though it took a long time and a lot of scars. I’m glad she had support, I’m glad she found love again, and I’m glad that she’s speaking out about her experience to help someone else.
Now, on to why I didn’t enjoy it as much.
I gotta be frank; Josefina was unlikeable. Heck, she bordered on being a bitch, and that was my impression of her before she got involved with Ridge. Sure, you can be a cool kid, daredevil, yada yada, but she was also a whole lot of rude. And in the beginning, when she climbed up the roof to question him about the kiss but ended up sort of flipping out? That’s just... I don’t even know what to call it. Self-entitled?
As someone who’s gone through what she did (not to the point I was at death’s door, but 3 years of hell was long enough for me to want to die) & read through it, I can’t deny I had moments when I wished she could “just leave” too. But I understood why she stayed. I understood the fear of retaliation, and at the end of the book, I was glad to see her character development. I’m glad she made it out, even though it took a long time and a lot of scars. I’m glad she had support, I’m glad she found love again, and I’m glad that she’s speaking out about her experience to help someone else.
October 26, 2019
Heartbreakingly beautiful and uplifting
A Love that Hurts:A Story of Domestic Violence is the fifth book in the Relationship Quo series. This one in particular is a special edition and can be read as a stand alone. This was a difficult subject to tackle for many reasons, it can trigger some and is not recommend for those that are triggered about these particular subjects.
The story is beautifully written and well done. Nicole Strycharz tackles the question and references that the question shouldn't be why does she stay, but more so should be how can I help. As the reader, I can clearly see why she stayed and how difficult it was to ask for help and be driven there.
If you've read her previous novels, you'll recognize some of the characters. It's a nice update to some old friends.
I really love how empowered I felt for myself and Josefina at the end of this one.
Favorite Quote:
“There’s a difference between being rescued and being a survivor. Being rescued don’t mean a thing unless you’re a survivor."
A Love that Hurts:A Story of Domestic Violence is the fifth book in the Relationship Quo series. This one in particular is a special edition and can be read as a stand alone. This was a difficult subject to tackle for many reasons, it can trigger some and is not recommend for those that are triggered about these particular subjects.
The story is beautifully written and well done. Nicole Strycharz tackles the question and references that the question shouldn't be why does she stay, but more so should be how can I help. As the reader, I can clearly see why she stayed and how difficult it was to ask for help and be driven there.
If you've read her previous novels, you'll recognize some of the characters. It's a nice update to some old friends.
I really love how empowered I felt for myself and Josefina at the end of this one.
Favorite Quote:
“There’s a difference between being rescued and being a survivor. Being rescued don’t mean a thing unless you’re a survivor."
November 20, 2019
A tragically beautiful story that uncovers a reality that many unfortunately face. The author did a fantastic job balancing the scales of hopes, despair, love, and devastation in a relationship that is toxic and doomed from the beginning. It's not a story for everyone if it touches too close to home regarding domestic abuse, but the author brings to light a situation many are afraid to share when faced with the challenges in the most delicate and realistic way. The author continues to paint beautiful, realistic characters and situations in this series which some don't agree with when real-life spills its blood upon the pages rather than a fantasy. Life isn't always sunshine and lollipops. Some loves sprout from tragedy of another - sometimes in the form of children or a deeper connection with a friend or family member rather than a spouse/partner.
Cheers to the author!
Cheers to the author!
September 21, 2019
There are stories we read that stay with us forever. This is the one that you will.never forget as long as you live. Josephina and Ridge are characters so complicated and real.
I started reading know this one would be hard. I couldn't get through the first page without being punched in the chest. I felt actually breath leave my body. I could put it down. The pages kept turning and my heart kept trying to break my rib cage to.breat free. I wanted to stop, but turned every page like I turned every corner in my life. One foot in front of the other.
This story is one lived by so many. In the shadows and in broad daylight. It's a tale as old as time and the lesson we all will learn. LOVE HURTS!
I started reading know this one would be hard. I couldn't get through the first page without being punched in the chest. I felt actually breath leave my body. I could put it down. The pages kept turning and my heart kept trying to break my rib cage to.breat free. I wanted to stop, but turned every page like I turned every corner in my life. One foot in front of the other.
This story is one lived by so many. In the shadows and in broad daylight. It's a tale as old as time and the lesson we all will learn. LOVE HURTS!
Want to read
September 24, 2019While I have not read this book yet, I've decided to wait for its release in October. I have already preordered it. However, by reading the reviews and past experience from Nicole's books I will not be (nor will you) disappointed. Nicole has a way of bringing characters to life, and this story I am positive will not be different. This story will be so hard to read, dealing with personal experiences. No, I wasn't abused, but I've seen it up close and very personal. I want to physically hold this book (not just e read) and let my tears flow. I know this book will be told with honesty, grit, and none of that made up Hollywood extravaganza. It will be real. I cannot wait to get my hands on this book. Thank you Nicole!
June 13, 2020
A powerful but difficult read. My stomach ached whilst reading it. The writing captured such intense emotions - I was scared for the h, hurt for her, worried for her, frustrated for her.
It is a well written book that highlights all of the complexities that go with domestic violence. The difficulty leaving, the external people it affects, the manipulation and isolation of the victim-the writer captured it all.
It is a well written book that highlights all of the complexities that go with domestic violence. The difficulty leaving, the external people it affects, the manipulation and isolation of the victim-the writer captured it all.
July 8, 2022
Wow. This book was really something. I stayed up and finished it in one sitting. I loved the pace. It was absolutely perfect. I also loved how it was divided into parts. The writing style wasn't necessarily the best and I thought some of the multiple povs were unnecessary but overall this was was a really good read. I loved how the toxic relationship was represented for what it was. This story would definitely stay with me for a while.
November 23, 2024
DNF
I tried. But it kept getting worse and worse.
Call me whatever you want, but I don’t have any sympathies for women like Josefina. They deserve the type of men like Ridge to whom they get attracted to like moth to flame. Everyone warned didn’t they? Especially her brother. The brother who literally brought her up. “Nobody controls me”? My ass. Hell even Ridge’s own mother warns her. Some of the utter stupid and repulsive things she says-
“Pain is another form of pleasure”
“I am not afraid of death”
“I love unsafe things”
And how TF does a 30 year old woman not know the Frog in milk story? And when Ridge’s mother literally all but says that Ridge is bad news and he can be abusive and that SHE HERSELF had been in that situation and the damage was done before she realised it too late, THIS FUCKING 30 YEAR OLD WOMAN COULDN’T TAKE A HINT??!!!
I never knew I would say this but if there ever is a definition of “asking for it”, she would be it.
She’s an overgrown spoiled brat with mommy issues that had this coming long time. I don’t feel pity or sympathy for women who CHOOSE toxicity because it gives them a high. She’s not a 19 year old. She was almost 30. Should I feel she’s a victim? Really. No thanks.
And what TF was that arc with Trixie? I guess she was so fucked over by her ex boyfriend in the previous book that she took her life on a roll in this one. Dating one guy without sex then sleeping with your best friend’s brother because you’re on a break and then go back to dating your guy who makes genuine efforts to change? And you still hadn’t had sex with this guy you’re dating but you had no problem having a ONS with another guy who doesn’t even like you on normal days? Is it just this author or are all American women so fucked in the head with a warped sense of loyalty, relationships and sexual intimacy? I put my bet on the later. I am not feeling sympathetic to this duo at all. And she says-
“This whole mess wouldn’t exist if I could just be a damn lesbian!”.
Umm no honey. None of this would have happened if you would have KEPT YOUR DAMN LEGS CLOSED.
And this author’s and her fan’s idea of a good guy is being cool about your girlfriend getting pregnant by someone else. Sorry but I m with Ridge on this one.
I seriously can’t with these characters. Ms Strycharz has some serious issues if this is her idea of female characters in a romance book. And she says she’s inspired by real life. What kind of fucked up company does this author keep?
Also lot of tactical errors in writing. Either English is not this author’s first or 2nd language or she’s not so bright for a writer is she? Heck. English is my 3rd language yet I know how off the writing is. Nothing wrong with grammar just tactical errors that feel off.
Eg.1-
“…he saw me waiting with patience by the existing tree line”.
With patience- Patiently
“..he saw me waiting patiently by the tree line”
Eg.2-
“used what remained to cool the back of his neck.”
What remained- the remaining
“used the remaining to cool the back of his neck”
I can go on but these are few to get the zest. Overall I was more put off and annoyed by this book than feel actual angst. All these factors prevented me to be invested thoroughly.
I tried. But it kept getting worse and worse.
Call me whatever you want, but I don’t have any sympathies for women like Josefina. They deserve the type of men like Ridge to whom they get attracted to like moth to flame. Everyone warned didn’t they? Especially her brother. The brother who literally brought her up. “Nobody controls me”? My ass. Hell even Ridge’s own mother warns her. Some of the utter stupid and repulsive things she says-
“Pain is another form of pleasure”
“I am not afraid of death”
“I love unsafe things”
And how TF does a 30 year old woman not know the Frog in milk story? And when Ridge’s mother literally all but says that Ridge is bad news and he can be abusive and that SHE HERSELF had been in that situation and the damage was done before she realised it too late, THIS FUCKING 30 YEAR OLD WOMAN COULDN’T TAKE A HINT??!!!
I never knew I would say this but if there ever is a definition of “asking for it”, she would be it.
She’s an overgrown spoiled brat with mommy issues that had this coming long time. I don’t feel pity or sympathy for women who CHOOSE toxicity because it gives them a high. She’s not a 19 year old. She was almost 30. Should I feel she’s a victim? Really. No thanks.
And what TF was that arc with Trixie? I guess she was so fucked over by her ex boyfriend in the previous book that she took her life on a roll in this one. Dating one guy without sex then sleeping with your best friend’s brother because you’re on a break and then go back to dating your guy who makes genuine efforts to change? And you still hadn’t had sex with this guy you’re dating but you had no problem having a ONS with another guy who doesn’t even like you on normal days? Is it just this author or are all American women so fucked in the head with a warped sense of loyalty, relationships and sexual intimacy? I put my bet on the later. I am not feeling sympathetic to this duo at all. And she says-
“This whole mess wouldn’t exist if I could just be a damn lesbian!”.
Umm no honey. None of this would have happened if you would have KEPT YOUR DAMN LEGS CLOSED.
And this author’s and her fan’s idea of a good guy is being cool about your girlfriend getting pregnant by someone else. Sorry but I m with Ridge on this one.
I seriously can’t with these characters. Ms Strycharz has some serious issues if this is her idea of female characters in a romance book. And she says she’s inspired by real life. What kind of fucked up company does this author keep?
Also lot of tactical errors in writing. Either English is not this author’s first or 2nd language or she’s not so bright for a writer is she? Heck. English is my 3rd language yet I know how off the writing is. Nothing wrong with grammar just tactical errors that feel off.
Eg.1-
“…he saw me waiting with patience by the existing tree line”.
With patience- Patiently
“..he saw me waiting patiently by the tree line”
Eg.2-
“used what remained to cool the back of his neck.”
What remained- the remaining
“used the remaining to cool the back of his neck”
I can go on but these are few to get the zest. Overall I was more put off and annoyed by this book than feel actual angst. All these factors prevented me to be invested thoroughly.
March 28, 2024
This is a very hard book to read but a very well written one. It’s the story of a woman who is in a very abusive relationship for four years, the abuses are both emotional, psychological and physical.
The story is very very similar to what happens in real life because the author herself has been in one so she knows exactly what happens, why, and the various phases that leads to an unavoidable end. Either the woman is able to get free from this relationship or she dies. There’s no other possible way.
The husband was himself a victim of an abusive father and he became an abuser himself, but there are men who have not been abused by their parents and are abusers so it’s not necessary to be a victim of abuse to become an abuser.
Sadly there’s no coming back and the only way is to end the relationship and the abuser must go to therapy, seriously. For years. It’s possible for the, to recover but sadly many are not able or willing.
The husband here was also involved in some criminal activity but believe me, sometimes the abusers are average, common men with common jobs, many are rich and powerful, and their jobs are legal, and the people around them don’t suspect anything. This story is very hard to read but it shows how a woman who is completely normal and sane can end in a very abusive and toxic relationship .
Those men don’t usually reveal their abusive nature immediately. It can take years and it’s gradual.
Some of them are only emotionally abusive, so their victims are stripped of their self confidence, of their families, friends, and are deprived of any emotional and material support and become completely dependent on their husbands, or partner whatever. Some of them don’t even buy groceries without their man’s approval and don’t have money because their partner wouldn’t give them. They are isolated from their parents, siblings, friends, they often don’t have careers, or jobs. They are continually and constantly criticized, belittled, scorned. In the end they don’t think they can survive without their partners. This one is both emotionally and physically abusive. The physical abuse make it easier to rebel because it’s very apparent even to other people and it’s of course painful on a outer lever, beside the inner pain. The emotional and psychological abuses are more difficult to understand, to accept and to overcome. Read only if you are ready to accept this kind of very crude descriptions.
The story is very very similar to what happens in real life because the author herself has been in one so she knows exactly what happens, why, and the various phases that leads to an unavoidable end. Either the woman is able to get free from this relationship or she dies. There’s no other possible way.
The husband was himself a victim of an abusive father and he became an abuser himself, but there are men who have not been abused by their parents and are abusers so it’s not necessary to be a victim of abuse to become an abuser.
Sadly there’s no coming back and the only way is to end the relationship and the abuser must go to therapy, seriously. For years. It’s possible for the, to recover but sadly many are not able or willing.
The husband here was also involved in some criminal activity but believe me, sometimes the abusers are average, common men with common jobs, many are rich and powerful, and their jobs are legal, and the people around them don’t suspect anything. This story is very hard to read but it shows how a woman who is completely normal and sane can end in a very abusive and toxic relationship .
Those men don’t usually reveal their abusive nature immediately. It can take years and it’s gradual.
Some of them are only emotionally abusive, so their victims are stripped of their self confidence, of their families, friends, and are deprived of any emotional and material support and become completely dependent on their husbands, or partner whatever. Some of them don’t even buy groceries without their man’s approval and don’t have money because their partner wouldn’t give them. They are isolated from their parents, siblings, friends, they often don’t have careers, or jobs. They are continually and constantly criticized, belittled, scorned. In the end they don’t think they can survive without their partners. This one is both emotionally and physically abusive. The physical abuse make it easier to rebel because it’s very apparent even to other people and it’s of course painful on a outer lever, beside the inner pain. The emotional and psychological abuses are more difficult to understand, to accept and to overcome. Read only if you are ready to accept this kind of very crude descriptions.
September 6, 2020
Triggers but a great read
I don't know where start this review??? First let me say as someone who is best-friends to a beautiful soul, I know what a toxic relationship looks like. So someone who lived my own toxic relationship I know what one feels like. The question should never be "why do you stay". It should be "why can't you leave"... Sounds like the same but it isnt . Asking why do you stay is not different for someone who keeps a job with a demeaning boss of someone who remains renting from a slum lord. Everyone has their reasons why they stay. You will always have an answer from them that you don't understand, or don't agree with. But its their reasons as to why they can't leave that will unfurl the truth and understanding. When it comes down to a toxic relationship, be it intimate or close friends, the underlining is that they don't see the value others see in them. They don't love themselves they say they love others. And why I felt Josefina couldn't walk away (although wasn't mentioned) depression.
Reading from the early pages I sensed she may of had depression. And no not all suffers suffer the same . Not all prefer isolation and a dark room. Many seek crowds, laughter, companionship over the darkness because the darkness consumes them. So in her being a "trill seeker" she was able to feel anything but the loneliness anything but the emotional pain. Transferring it to a more dare-devil way of handling life.
Ridge took the life he grew up living to mold him into the man he only saw himself becoming. Can't really say to much without spoiling.
This was a great read, although in the first few chapters she annoyed me I am glad I purchased. I've read these out of order starting with book 5 the affair, nothing was ruined for me.
I don't know where start this review??? First let me say as someone who is best-friends to a beautiful soul, I know what a toxic relationship looks like. So someone who lived my own toxic relationship I know what one feels like. The question should never be "why do you stay". It should be "why can't you leave"... Sounds like the same but it isnt . Asking why do you stay is not different for someone who keeps a job with a demeaning boss of someone who remains renting from a slum lord. Everyone has their reasons why they stay. You will always have an answer from them that you don't understand, or don't agree with. But its their reasons as to why they can't leave that will unfurl the truth and understanding. When it comes down to a toxic relationship, be it intimate or close friends, the underlining is that they don't see the value others see in them. They don't love themselves they say they love others. And why I felt Josefina couldn't walk away (although wasn't mentioned) depression.
Reading from the early pages I sensed she may of had depression. And no not all suffers suffer the same . Not all prefer isolation and a dark room. Many seek crowds, laughter, companionship over the darkness because the darkness consumes them. So in her being a "trill seeker" she was able to feel anything but the loneliness anything but the emotional pain. Transferring it to a more dare-devil way of handling life.
Ridge took the life he grew up living to mold him into the man he only saw himself becoming. Can't really say to much without spoiling.
This was a great read, although in the first few chapters she annoyed me I am glad I purchased. I've read these out of order starting with book 5 the affair, nothing was ruined for me.
September 19, 2020
Difficult reading
Once again this next book in the relationship series is just as gritty as the others and it get the very core of an abusive relationship,from the mental side with sly comments to building up to the physical side of abuse and I found it at times difficult to read so if you are someone that has experienced any aspect of an abusive relationship this will be a very emotional read for you, but hopefully one that brings you comfort and strength and even some closure. As difficult as it was to read I can't even imagine how hard it must've been to write but it is done so with the usual detail and care that is associated with this author as with all the other books in the series. This book can be read as a standalone but I would recommend if you haven't read the other books in the series please do it will give you a more in-depth understanding of the characters as some appeared in earlier books. All I all another great book by the author. 100% recommend
Once again this next book in the relationship series is just as gritty as the others and it get the very core of an abusive relationship,from the mental side with sly comments to building up to the physical side of abuse and I found it at times difficult to read so if you are someone that has experienced any aspect of an abusive relationship this will be a very emotional read for you, but hopefully one that brings you comfort and strength and even some closure. As difficult as it was to read I can't even imagine how hard it must've been to write but it is done so with the usual detail and care that is associated with this author as with all the other books in the series. This book can be read as a standalone but I would recommend if you haven't read the other books in the series please do it will give you a more in-depth understanding of the characters as some appeared in earlier books. All I all another great book by the author. 100% recommend
November 19, 2020
Survivor. Never victim.
I was planning this review out in my head as I was reading it but now after finishing it I feel like it doesn’t do the story the justice it deserves. I believe this was the most powerful story by Nicole yet... I think it may even be the most powerful book about domestic violence I’ve ever read, fiction and otherwise. In this book it goes to show the good and the awful times in an abusive relationship.
I’d like to give major props to the Author for writing this. I could feel her pain seeping through the pages as I read this beautiful work of art, and I know it couldn’t have been easy for her. I truly would give this book more stars if I could, and I will be getting the paperback as soon as I can.
Thank you for writing this. Always a survivor. Never a victim.
I was planning this review out in my head as I was reading it but now after finishing it I feel like it doesn’t do the story the justice it deserves. I believe this was the most powerful story by Nicole yet... I think it may even be the most powerful book about domestic violence I’ve ever read, fiction and otherwise. In this book it goes to show the good and the awful times in an abusive relationship.
I’d like to give major props to the Author for writing this. I could feel her pain seeping through the pages as I read this beautiful work of art, and I know it couldn’t have been easy for her. I truly would give this book more stars if I could, and I will be getting the paperback as soon as I can.
Thank you for writing this. Always a survivor. Never a victim.
April 25, 2020
I have to say that I was NOT expecting what I got going into this book (yes, even despite the warnings). This is a harrowing and heartbreaking account of an abusive relationship. Not a romanticized version we are used to seeing in dark romance but the one you are more likely to encounter in real life. This book is exceptionally well written and the author handles sensitive subject matter with the care it deserves. I love that she doesn't sugar coat anything and shows not only why someone would be the abuser, but also why someone would keep going back to one. Don't go into this book if you are in the mood for the usual dark romance chills and thrills. This book does have an HEA for the heroine, but, again, not one you might expect, but the one she absolutely deserves!
July 30, 2020
I caught red flags immediately, mostly from experience in my own relationships. The euphoria of a new romance, being pulled in as if there is no one else in the world but you and them, the gifts, the boost of confidence you’ve never experienced prior to your new beau. Then codependence and pain whether physical or emotional takes over, leaving you feeling alone, depressed, doubting yourself and in fear. Nicole has a way of writing that pulls you right into the story as if you are part of it. Often leaving you feeling as if she had read parts of the stories from your past/present out of your secret journal that you keep hidden. This is one book that takes you on a emotional rollercoaster, keep tissues handy as you will need them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2021
I was literally shaking during the last half of this novel. The first half? Just as Josie loved Ridge, so did I. This author has the capability to pull you into her characters. This is not the first book I've read by Nicole Strycharz so I knew it would be good. She write deeps and has the ability to weave you into the scenes - you forget you are reading because you are there - falling in love with her characters. But The Love that Hurts - well it was the first book on this subject I have ever read. You have heard the term 'on the edge of your seat' - this book is one. Obviously thoroughly researched, Nicole's narrative will shock you. A definite must read. One of the best love stories I have ever read. One of the best books I have ever read.
November 19, 2020
Bundle of intense emotions
I loved how the book has been written and how the characters have played their parts to perfection. I loved the story. I loved how major characters had their POVs, even Ridge who was struggling and fighting his own battles giving into his demons, was beautifully shown.
For most parts I kept saying "Why is she doing this to herself, she is stronger than that!" But I understood never to judge someone for being a victim. They have their own reasons and they need time to come out and speak
This book relayed such an important message that everyone must read and understand! A big takeaway..
I loved how the book has been written and how the characters have played their parts to perfection. I loved the story. I loved how major characters had their POVs, even Ridge who was struggling and fighting his own battles giving into his demons, was beautifully shown.
For most parts I kept saying "Why is she doing this to herself, she is stronger than that!" But I understood never to judge someone for being a victim. They have their own reasons and they need time to come out and speak
This book relayed such an important message that everyone must read and understand! A big takeaway..
May 28, 2025
DNF
Forget it. I try to continue but i can’t with this fmc.
⚠️spoiler⚠️
She act like a kid. Literally. When her brother warned her about H, she doesn’t believe him (still okay, maybe he’s just a bit overprotective). But when a sheriff warned her about H and she didn’t believe him…that’s STUPID. If someone with power openly said he scared of H, it means he’s a problem.
After that she pursues him like a loser. She keeps saying something like: i like trouble, i’m not scared of death, i don’t do what people said, i’m like danger, i like pain 😑😑😑
Clumsy, unlucky, and STUPID are 3 different things. And she’s definitely STUPID.
Forget it. I try to continue but i can’t with this fmc.
⚠️spoiler⚠️
She act like a kid. Literally. When her brother warned her about H, she doesn’t believe him (still okay, maybe he’s just a bit overprotective). But when a sheriff warned her about H and she didn’t believe him…that’s STUPID. If someone with power openly said he scared of H, it means he’s a problem.
After that she pursues him like a loser. She keeps saying something like: i like trouble, i’m not scared of death, i don’t do what people said, i’m like danger, i like pain 😑😑😑
Clumsy, unlucky, and STUPID are 3 different things. And she’s definitely STUPID.
January 24, 2020
From the Author that wrote 5 terrific books on relationships, from Divorce to The Affair and everything in between comes her most important story yet.
You know from the title what you are getting and I have read DV books before, but nothing like this.
Ridge is the main male character, notice how I didn't say "hero". Josefina (pronounced Hose'fina) is the daring, devil-may-care heroine. The women in this series all have growth throughout the books so to read about what Josefina goes through was in my mind fiction meeting non fiction.
I always wondered why Nicole Brown Simpson stated with OJ Simpson - watching that trial I was incensed that her family and friends didn't step in, reading this book shed light on that. Each DV situation is different in reality, but all victims must feel the same for various reasons.
Abused othen becomes the abuser
Manipulating, but loving
Isolating but loving
Controlling but loving
and ultimately Violent, but loving
As Josefina states He was Too fast, too dark, too hazardous.
This book is recommended to anyone who thinks that someone is in a toxic relationship - The signs are all here.
A Brilliant Series by a Brilliant Author - One I highly recommend with unforgettable characters.
You know from the title what you are getting and I have read DV books before, but nothing like this.
Ridge is the main male character, notice how I didn't say "hero". Josefina (pronounced Hose'fina) is the daring, devil-may-care heroine. The women in this series all have growth throughout the books so to read about what Josefina goes through was in my mind fiction meeting non fiction.
I always wondered why Nicole Brown Simpson stated with OJ Simpson - watching that trial I was incensed that her family and friends didn't step in, reading this book shed light on that. Each DV situation is different in reality, but all victims must feel the same for various reasons.
Abused othen becomes the abuser
Manipulating, but loving
Isolating but loving
Controlling but loving
and ultimately Violent, but loving
As Josefina states He was Too fast, too dark, too hazardous.
This book is recommended to anyone who thinks that someone is in a toxic relationship - The signs are all here.
A Brilliant Series by a Brilliant Author - One I highly recommend with unforgettable characters.
December 9, 2020
It kills me
Where to start?! I connected with this book on so many levels. I cried a few times, I experienced a great deal of anger and upset. I wanted Ridge to a better man. I’m glad Josie took the steps she needed to make. I hate it took her so long to arrive at that point but only you know when you’re truly done with a situation. I read this book in a day and I promise it’s worth it. If your heart or mind is fragile then this may not be the read for you. Nicole as this is my first read of yours I will say I’m impressed.
Where to start?! I connected with this book on so many levels. I cried a few times, I experienced a great deal of anger and upset. I wanted Ridge to a better man. I’m glad Josie took the steps she needed to make. I hate it took her so long to arrive at that point but only you know when you’re truly done with a situation. I read this book in a day and I promise it’s worth it. If your heart or mind is fragile then this may not be the read for you. Nicole as this is my first read of yours I will say I’m impressed.
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