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Costa Leona Series #13
After the Chains
- GenresRomance
ebook
About the author
Jonaxx
57 books2,348 followersJonahmae Pacala (publishing as Jonaxx) was never fond of reading longnovels during her elementary years but found a deep connection with sshort sad stories. She discovered her flair for writing at the early age of ten. What was once a hobby has now grown into a passion for writing online.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 22, 2025
lucianna and uriel's playful banters towards each other are so entertaining to read !! i like that dynamic of theirs. tho yet again, the miscommunication pissed me off...
October 26, 2020
“Uriel?! Pangit?! Walang ginawang pangit ang Panginoon!” si Senyora na halatang pinapaluguran na ako.”
4.25 stars
I think this is the funniest CLS book yet. The banters between Lucianna and Uriel? Senyora not being her bitchy and domineering self? Pure gold.
Also, I think ito yung pinaka slow burn na CLS story? Not that I am complaining but this is a plus for me. Lucianna being the ice queen is such a pleasure to read! And Uriel, damn Uriel. May part sa story na ‘to na parang pumunta na sa kanya ang puso ko. Parang isa siya sa pinaka-ok na CLS boys, iba yung respect and he’s certainly a man of his words.
It saddens me that this maybe the last Mercadejas story. In case you still don’t know, I am a Mercadejas girl. Iba yung pagkakasulat ni jonaxx sa mga lalaking ito. Sila lang talaga for me (with the exception of Raoul), and I am sooo happy to see more of Anton and Annaliese in this story. Also glad to see more of the dynamics between the brothers. Sa totoo lang, mas napakita yung brotherhood and may kung anong synergy ang mga characters sa 2nd gen stories compared sa 3rd. Siguro kasi we are more familiar with the stories na?
Up until the first half this would’ve been a 4.5-5 stars for me tbvh. Pero the very thing that I loved about it was probably also the thing that dragged it down for me. I felt that this was written in such a way to make us happy because of the pandemic? Ang lighthearted lang and there weren’t really so much drama (ang swerte ni Cianna because she has a loving family and Domitilla adores her) - that the only drama is Cianna’s trust issues, like I know what she’s went through pero medyo nagdrag na for me. Sana mas inexpound pa si Sean and her threats? Medyo anticlimactic for me. There could’ve been so much more material if naexplore yung part na yun.
Nonetheless, this is still better than most of the CLS stories. Though ‘di talaga favorable si Yvo sakin pero I wish we could read his story. I am still not willing to let go of my Merc men
4.25 stars
I think this is the funniest CLS book yet. The banters between Lucianna and Uriel? Senyora not being her bitchy and domineering self? Pure gold.
Also, I think ito yung pinaka slow burn na CLS story? Not that I am complaining but this is a plus for me. Lucianna being the ice queen is such a pleasure to read! And Uriel, damn Uriel. May part sa story na ‘to na parang pumunta na sa kanya ang puso ko. Parang isa siya sa pinaka-ok na CLS boys, iba yung respect and he’s certainly a man of his words.
It saddens me that this maybe the last Mercadejas story. In case you still don’t know, I am a Mercadejas girl. Iba yung pagkakasulat ni jonaxx sa mga lalaking ito. Sila lang talaga for me (with the exception of Raoul), and I am sooo happy to see more of Anton and Annaliese in this story. Also glad to see more of the dynamics between the brothers. Sa totoo lang, mas napakita yung brotherhood and may kung anong synergy ang mga characters sa 2nd gen stories compared sa 3rd. Siguro kasi we are more familiar with the stories na?
Up until the first half this would’ve been a 4.5-5 stars for me tbvh. Pero the very thing that I loved about it was probably also the thing that dragged it down for me. I felt that this was written in such a way to make us happy because of the pandemic? Ang lighthearted lang and there weren’t really so much drama (ang swerte ni Cianna because she has a loving family and Domitilla adores her) - that the only drama is Cianna’s trust issues, like I know what she’s went through pero medyo nagdrag na for me. Sana mas inexpound pa si Sean and her threats? Medyo anticlimactic for me. There could’ve been so much more material if naexplore yung part na yun.
Nonetheless, this is still better than most of the CLS stories. Though ‘di talaga favorable si Yvo sakin pero I wish we could read his story. I am still not willing to let go of my Merc men
October 3, 2021
Surprisingly, ATC is a fresh read if you'll compare it to the previous Costa Leona stories where it is more on heavy plot and conflicts. ATC is light and funny.
I'm in love with Lucianna and Uriel's banter. Yung walang tigil nilang bangayan everytime nagsasama sila, the way na parang kawawa palagi si Uriel dahil sa kasungitan at coldness ni Cian sa kanya, lol, they're the highlight of my night and they never failed to make me laugh out loud. I also love Uriel's playfulness when it comes to Cian na gusto niya palaging pikunin, a complete contrast from the other CLS boys! Plus, can we please not forget about the matchmakers of the year: Tita Kriselda and Senyora? 😂 It is kind of annoying at times but we can't deny the fact that they added colors to this story, especially Senyora na ibang iba sa libro na 'to compared to the 3rd generation CLS Senyora.
Tho, I wouldn't say that this will be my all time favorite Costa Leona story. It's fluffy and funny, a perfect story when you're looking for something to read during your vacant hours but the plot and the ending itself did not leave a mark on me the way the other CLS, let's say BBTW, did. Maybe it has something to do with this, like I mentioned earlier, being light and my preferences in stories. However, you'll surely find me smiling at the mention of Lucianna and Uriel because I think they're now one of my favorite Jonaxx couples.
Is it worth the read? Yes! Will I still recommend it? They're not at the top of the list but if you're looking for a light Jonaxx story, I will :)
I'm in love with Lucianna and Uriel's banter. Yung walang tigil nilang bangayan everytime nagsasama sila, the way na parang kawawa palagi si Uriel dahil sa kasungitan at coldness ni Cian sa kanya, lol, they're the highlight of my night and they never failed to make me laugh out loud. I also love Uriel's playfulness when it comes to Cian na gusto niya palaging pikunin, a complete contrast from the other CLS boys! Plus, can we please not forget about the matchmakers of the year: Tita Kriselda and Senyora? 😂 It is kind of annoying at times but we can't deny the fact that they added colors to this story, especially Senyora na ibang iba sa libro na 'to compared to the 3rd generation CLS Senyora.
Tho, I wouldn't say that this will be my all time favorite Costa Leona story. It's fluffy and funny, a perfect story when you're looking for something to read during your vacant hours but the plot and the ending itself did not leave a mark on me the way the other CLS, let's say BBTW, did. Maybe it has something to do with this, like I mentioned earlier, being light and my preferences in stories. However, you'll surely find me smiling at the mention of Lucianna and Uriel because I think they're now one of my favorite Jonaxx couples.
Is it worth the read? Yes! Will I still recommend it? They're not at the top of the list but if you're looking for a light Jonaxx story, I will :)
February 4, 2022
The never ending banter between the two was priceless. A light read and funny. Miss the jboys. I think it was about 2 or 3 years, sinced I last read anything from jonaxx. There will always be a different level of kilig when it comes to them.
February 16, 2021
The ending was very sloppy, It feels like Jonaxx just wants to resemble both Kajik and Zamiel's Story in this book's plot.
July 14, 2025
Reading After the Chains by Jonaxx with Lucianna and Uriel as the main characters really made me feel emotionally chained to their story. I didn’t expect to love it this much, but I did. It’s not the usual heavy or serious story—it’s actually very funny! Almost every chapter made me laugh because of their bardagulan or funny banters. Their dynamic felt real, raw, and very natural. They were chained together not because they wanted it at first, but because of the circumstances. They were forced—but what I love is how love eventually became the reason they stayed. Not because of their parents or pressure, but because of their genuine feelings.
One line that really hit me was, “They were chained by force, but they stayed by choice.” That’s exactly what made this story beautiful. They could have broken those chains anytime, but they chose to build something strong together. Love slowly grew between them, and I admire how patient Uriel was with Lucianna even when she tried to push him away. He didn’t give up. He understood her, looked for her, and loved her even more. Uriel is truly the goat—he’s my favorite. His patience and loyalty are rare.
I also admire Lucianna’s heart. Her love for her family was so pure. She was willing to lose everything except them. That part made me emotional, especially when she got traumatized and blamed herself. I felt that. I’m someone who also values family above all, and just like Lucianna, I always feel scared of losing the people I love. Her pain was something I could relate to deeply. Her journey reminded me that we don’t have to be perfect to be loved—we just have to be real.
The plot twists kept me on edge. Some parts made me laugh out loud, others made me cry. I also love Cianna’s family and Señyora—they supported Lucianna and Uriel in their own funny, obvious ways just to bring the two together. I love how they did it with so much care and humor. Their support reminded me of how important it is to have people who want to see you happy, even if they push you a bit too hard.
Another thing I learned from this story is to be careful about who we trust. There are really people who act curious or too friendly but deep inside, they have bad intentions. That part made me reflect a lot. I’ve also experienced people trying to get too close, only to realize they had other motives. The book gave me a reminder to always protect my peace.
The title After the Chains really fits perfectly. At first, it seemed like it was about being trapped—but as the story went on, I realized it’s about what happens after the forced chains: freedom, love, and choosing each other. It’s about finding a reason to stay. I think that’s the most beautiful kind of love—the one you choose even when it’s hard.
“After the chains, we stayed. Not because we had to, but because we wanted to.”
That’s what Lucianna and Uriel taught me.
This is now my favorite story. I love every scene. I love every kilig, nakakainis, and laugh-out-loud moment. I love how it felt like I was part of their journey. They didn’t just get chained to each other—I got chained to them too.
One line that really hit me was, “They were chained by force, but they stayed by choice.” That’s exactly what made this story beautiful. They could have broken those chains anytime, but they chose to build something strong together. Love slowly grew between them, and I admire how patient Uriel was with Lucianna even when she tried to push him away. He didn’t give up. He understood her, looked for her, and loved her even more. Uriel is truly the goat—he’s my favorite. His patience and loyalty are rare.
I also admire Lucianna’s heart. Her love for her family was so pure. She was willing to lose everything except them. That part made me emotional, especially when she got traumatized and blamed herself. I felt that. I’m someone who also values family above all, and just like Lucianna, I always feel scared of losing the people I love. Her pain was something I could relate to deeply. Her journey reminded me that we don’t have to be perfect to be loved—we just have to be real.
The plot twists kept me on edge. Some parts made me laugh out loud, others made me cry. I also love Cianna’s family and Señyora—they supported Lucianna and Uriel in their own funny, obvious ways just to bring the two together. I love how they did it with so much care and humor. Their support reminded me of how important it is to have people who want to see you happy, even if they push you a bit too hard.
Another thing I learned from this story is to be careful about who we trust. There are really people who act curious or too friendly but deep inside, they have bad intentions. That part made me reflect a lot. I’ve also experienced people trying to get too close, only to realize they had other motives. The book gave me a reminder to always protect my peace.
The title After the Chains really fits perfectly. At first, it seemed like it was about being trapped—but as the story went on, I realized it’s about what happens after the forced chains: freedom, love, and choosing each other. It’s about finding a reason to stay. I think that’s the most beautiful kind of love—the one you choose even when it’s hard.
“After the chains, we stayed. Not because we had to, but because we wanted to.”
That’s what Lucianna and Uriel taught me.
This is now my favorite story. I love every scene. I love every kilig, nakakainis, and laugh-out-loud moment. I love how it felt like I was part of their journey. They didn’t just get chained to each other—I got chained to them too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2026
I think after all that's happened between us, we don't deserve a half ass promise to each other. We don't deserve to just settle on that piece of paper just because it's done. I deserve his promise. And most of all, he deserves my promise of a lifetime.
HUHUHU parents!! Among all the CLS stories, this is so underrated. It makes sense na this was written during the pandemic, because I feel like we really needed a breath of fresh air during that time. Uriel and Lucianna's dynamic is so compelling, at ang daming iconic moments!! Their banters, yung unggoy painting, the cufflinks, the cliffside wedding, the underwater proposal, and them bonding with Anton and Annaliese 🥹
I also love the references to Zamiel and Kajik's books. Kuhang kuha talaga yung kiliti ko, knowing na this is the last Mercadejas story. Parang tribute na rin sa kanilang lahat. End of an era!!
April 2, 2024
URIEL AMSCHEL MERCANDEJAS AKIN KA NA LANG😩😩😩😩 lucianna almodovar ang nagiisang nagustuhan ni senyora para kay uriel na nagustuhan din ng anak nya!!! grabe super laugh trip ni senyora HAHAHAHA nakakapanghina ang pagiging maaalahanin, understanding, and gentle ni uriel😞😞 i need a man like him in my life. sana mababy rin ako ni uriel hehehehe, anyways i'm so happy for them even though they've been through so much they still found each other's arms... ugh kainis talaga si sean like super inggitera, i love you sooo much uriel and cian💋💋
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2021
4.5⭐️. sobrang different ng ambiance compared sa ibang libro ni jonaxx sa costa leona series? napapaisip ako baka di jonaxx to? char. pero ang ganda. light lang.
Lucianna being unbothered to Uriel’s advances sa first part ng libro ay 👌🏼. Solid haha. mej naging typical jonaxx gurl si Lucianna nung huli pero keri lang. saka mej different talaga di katulad ng ibang cls na mej repetitive yung theme ng kwento kaya nakakasawa minsan.
Lucianna being unbothered to Uriel’s advances sa first part ng libro ay 👌🏼. Solid haha. mej naging typical jonaxx gurl si Lucianna nung huli pero keri lang. saka mej different talaga di katulad ng ibang cls na mej repetitive yung theme ng kwento kaya nakakasawa minsan.
April 29, 2022
Comparing it to other Costa Leona stories, Uriel and Lucianna's story is lighter. It was such a fun read. Their endless banter, Lucianna's strong and cold personality, and Uriel's sweet and marupok side (to which I'm not surprised; his sons are like him). I just think that the ending could've been better but all in all, it was such a good read!
June 2, 2024
I love each character. Especially Anton and Uriel. I always wonder kung saang part ng cls makikita ang pag aaway nila. Pero dito ko lang pala makikita. I love Senyora here also. Bait nya dito pero sa ibang story, no comment nalang. I hope I find myself rr this story again. Ly Uriel & Lucianna. ^^
Read
October 22, 2020Ang gandaaaa😭♥️
Want to Read
November 10, 2020Ganda.
January 26, 2021
Super ganda
March 14, 2022
Where to buy Uriel?✋💳💥💳💥💳💥💳💥
May 17, 2022
LEFT MY GUT LAUGHING.
August 14, 2022
3.5 ⭐
Repetitive scenes and happenings from the 3rd Generation but kilig to max pa din 😍
Repetitive scenes and happenings from the 3rd Generation but kilig to max pa din 😍
November 17, 2022
uriel set the standard.
July 23, 2023
URIEL MERCADEJAS AND LUCIANNA ALMODOVAR!!
October 4, 2023
3.5 ⭐
November 5, 2023
Comfort story hahahhaha
June 7, 2025
they didnt lie when they said this was very diff from d other installments. idk if it's either a good thing or a bad thing, but i was HOLLERINGGG sa banters nilaaaa. fun, quick readddddddd
August 19, 2025
would've been a 5, but lucianna didn't trust uriel at all like??
i think im into enemies to lovers trope
i think im into enemies to lovers trope
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2025
I live for Uriel and Anton’s bardagulan HAHAHAHAHAHA
June 6, 2026
4.25 / 5
June 17, 2026
The story is light and more on a comedy side.
December 20, 2020
It's been so long since I read something from Jonaxx so I'm really excited (I always do actually hahahaha) when I decided to read it. Whenever I read something from Jonaxx, I know there wouldn't be any sleep, and this time, I stayed until almost 5:30AM hahahahahaha.
It's been a while since I've read something from Jonaxx so whenever some characters are mentioned that I know I should know, I always get frustrated because I am having a hard time remembering them. Well, I'm not always good with names anyway.
Senyora Domitilla is actually one of my least favorite characters in this series, but it was really amusing to read about her here. I know it's annoying if your parents are always breathing at you, but it's just funny reading about Senyora being so ridiculous about her matchmaking 🤣
There's just something about Jonaxx boys that makes you want to curl and jump into the story to really meet them in person. And whenever they drop those romantic lines, you just can't help but squeal in delight.
However, this story is just too complicated for me. A lot of things happened, and some really annoying characters showed up. I'm not a big fan of the conflict but heck, you just can't really complain about Jonaxx stories because however annoying some scenes or characters may be, there's just something about it that keeps you pulling in and you can't stop reading.
There's some few things that I wasn't really that impressed with and that epilogue, I hate to admit it, but it was a bit disappointing. But overall, it was still a very very fine read.
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It's been a while since I've read something from Jonaxx so whenever some characters are mentioned that I know I should know, I always get frustrated because I am having a hard time remembering them. Well, I'm not always good with names anyway.
Senyora Domitilla is actually one of my least favorite characters in this series, but it was really amusing to read about her here. I know it's annoying if your parents are always breathing at you, but it's just funny reading about Senyora being so ridiculous about her matchmaking 🤣
There's just something about Jonaxx boys that makes you want to curl and jump into the story to really meet them in person. And whenever they drop those romantic lines, you just can't help but squeal in delight.
However, this story is just too complicated for me. A lot of things happened, and some really annoying characters showed up. I'm not a big fan of the conflict but heck, you just can't really complain about Jonaxx stories because however annoying some scenes or characters may be, there's just something about it that keeps you pulling in and you can't stop reading.
There's some few things that I wasn't really that impressed with and that epilogue, I hate to admit it, but it was a bit disappointing. But overall, it was still a very very fine read.
Let's follow each other on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blushinggeek/
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May 6, 2025
too fast yung pacing but it's light-hearted
July 28, 2022
Truly a lovely book from the 2nd generation of Costa Leona's character leads. I enjoyed the execution of Lucianna's coping and healing from her grievances caused by the specific problems involving her family, and acquaintances. A love that's closely cherished can and will wait, just like Uriel and Lucianna's. Their development wasn't rushed nor was it inconsistent. I admired Lucianna Almodovar's refined and sophisticated demeanor; and the mere fact that this is the story of the second son of Senyora Domitilla was enough reason for me to consistently read during the time it was still ongoing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews