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Own Me
Will he become my savior, or will I lead him to ruin?
Jules
They say it’s bad when the blade of a knife is what makes you feel.
Failing therapy, my psychologist suggests I try it in a group setting. The problem with that… is the people. Nothing is different, and I’m self-harming just as frequently.
Until Him.
He’s going to be exactly the distraction I need—with his dark suit, darker attitude and mysterious slate eyes.
What I don’t realize is how much he’ll push my limits, my boundaries, and quickly wiggle his way into my closed-off world.
There’s a tiny piece of myself that I keep locked away to protect my heart from inevitable breakage. If I let that piece of me go, that means I let him own me, completely.
Zane
Another blow-up and set of bloody knuckles lands me in group therapy.
It’s exactly as I’d expect it to be.
Except her.
The stunning brunette who teases and stares through the entire first session.
As our flirtation continues, it becomes a dangerous game, which quickly turns into something more. From the moment we met, she's owned me. But I don't own her. Not yet.
Jules has a darkness surrounding her, enveloping her. And it’s stronger than my own.
Can I save her from her demons, when I can’t even save myself?
Own Me is an adult romance novel, intended for audiences 18 and older. Content warnings include strong language, explicit sexual scenes, mature situations, abandonment, drug and alcohol abuse, promiscuous behavior, non-consensual intercourse, and mental health struggles including: anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicide, attempted suicide, rage issues, and attending therapy.
Jules
They say it’s bad when the blade of a knife is what makes you feel.
Failing therapy, my psychologist suggests I try it in a group setting. The problem with that… is the people. Nothing is different, and I’m self-harming just as frequently.
Until Him.
He’s going to be exactly the distraction I need—with his dark suit, darker attitude and mysterious slate eyes.
What I don’t realize is how much he’ll push my limits, my boundaries, and quickly wiggle his way into my closed-off world.
There’s a tiny piece of myself that I keep locked away to protect my heart from inevitable breakage. If I let that piece of me go, that means I let him own me, completely.
Zane
Another blow-up and set of bloody knuckles lands me in group therapy.
It’s exactly as I’d expect it to be.
Except her.
The stunning brunette who teases and stares through the entire first session.
As our flirtation continues, it becomes a dangerous game, which quickly turns into something more. From the moment we met, she's owned me. But I don't own her. Not yet.
Jules has a darkness surrounding her, enveloping her. And it’s stronger than my own.
Can I save her from her demons, when I can’t even save myself?
Own Me is an adult romance novel, intended for audiences 18 and older. Content warnings include strong language, explicit sexual scenes, mature situations, abandonment, drug and alcohol abuse, promiscuous behavior, non-consensual intercourse, and mental health struggles including: anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicide, attempted suicide, rage issues, and attending therapy.
437 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2022
210 people are currently reading
1046 people want to read
About the author
Shayna Astor
20 books315 followersShayna Astor is a native New Yorker, currently residing upstate with her husband and two children. Getting all four seasons, her favorite are the cool, crisp days of fall.
When Shayna isn't writing, she can be found reading, spending time with her kids, or playing video games with her husband. Being an avid coffee drinker, she can almost always be found with a cup of coffee in her hands.
When Shayna isn't writing, she can be found reading, spending time with her kids, or playing video games with her husband. Being an avid coffee drinker, she can almost always be found with a cup of coffee in her hands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
May 23, 2022
This book is a read you NEED to check the trigger warnings, and check them twice!
A wonderful read! 4/5 stars <3
This book is about two people who struggle with their own mental health issues, finding each other and hoping they can make it work during their own personal struggles. This was a very emotional book and I am so glad I was able to read it!
A wonderful read! 4/5 stars <3
This book is about two people who struggle with their own mental health issues, finding each other and hoping they can make it work during their own personal struggles. This was a very emotional book and I am so glad I was able to read it!
July 22, 2022
This book was very hard to read. It depicts mental illness in its rawest and most honest form. While it’s a love story, it’s far more than that. Jules and Zane both have their issues, along with a “I hate the world” mentality. When they meet at group therapy, sparks fly, and so begins their beautiful, yet at times heartbreaking, love story. The book takes place over the span of a few years, and their romance is far from easy, with many setbacks on both sides.
There are times when the book feels rushed, because it’s taking place over so much time. I was also incredibly stressed about the ending, because the prologue gives a snippet of the future, which contains one of Jules’ lowest of lows.
Is there a HEA? Spoiler under the spoiler tag
All in all, I recommend this book if you’re looking for a heartwrenching read about mental illness and love.
There are times when the book feels rushed, because it’s taking place over so much time. I was also incredibly stressed about the ending, because the prologue gives a snippet of the future, which contains one of Jules’ lowest of lows.
Is there a HEA? Spoiler under the spoiler tag
All in all, I recommend this book if you’re looking for a heartwrenching read about mental illness and love.
September 1, 2022
2.5 graciously rounding to 3. I was at first pleased to read how realistic the author was treating mental health issues but then she allowed not one but two attacks on the MC to be glossed over. No police, little discussion, mostly glossed over. This was a lost opportunity for character growth for the h and H.
July 23, 2022
Disclaimer: The following review is purely opinion. It's not fact based or meant to be hurtful, it's just my thoughts as a reader. Also, keep in mind that I'm not a sensitive reader. I read a ton of stuff that many can't stomach. The fact that I disliked things that occurred in this storyline aren't because I can't take bad things happening, it's more so because the author didn't convince me the things that happened were necessary, or they were not handled correctly for the setting.
I found the characters in the beginning to be extremely annoying. I didn't identify with either of them and found their "flirting," idiotic. After a very long introduction that felt like it belonged in a YA novel, we get a curveball.
The main character was raped. 😳
And then it was never mentioned again?! 😑
Wait... 🤨
Wait..... 😡
So you are telling me, this poor girl who was abandoned by her parents, who lost her aunt to cancer, and who has the biggest abandonment and self-esteem issues - got raped at group therapy and then took a week to just, what? Get over it?! 🤨 And they never called the cops, they never reported the incident, they never sought justice. Her therapist never mentioned it. Her best friend cared more about her boyfriend throwing a perfume bottle at a wall, than the man who raped her and got away with it?!
What?!?!?!? 🤬
I just... 😮💨 okay, anyways... I kept reading. Their relationship bored me. Neither of them were growing, they were completely stagnant, whiny people who took no rational steps towards becoming healthy. They had no actual chemistry, they both just complained a lot and expected others to conform to their personal rules of fragile handling instead of learning how to love themselves in the face of a cruel and careless world.
They had a lot of sex, then a lot more sex, started talking about moving in together, never discussed STD's, never discussed anything really, other than therapy and coffee with Daphne. He got increasingly upset about her previous sex life and even slut shamed her... which she also thought was fine, (because her therapist was doing a fantastic job in teaching her what self love does and does not look like). And then I put the book down over the weekend and realized I didn't want to pick it up again.
I fully intended to finish the read until I tried to remember where I was- then I didn't want to go back to it. I guess it's just not for me. 🤷🏼♀️
I found the characters in the beginning to be extremely annoying. I didn't identify with either of them and found their "flirting," idiotic. After a very long introduction that felt like it belonged in a YA novel, we get a curveball.
The main character was raped. 😳
And then it was never mentioned again?! 😑
Wait... 🤨
Wait..... 😡
So you are telling me, this poor girl who was abandoned by her parents, who lost her aunt to cancer, and who has the biggest abandonment and self-esteem issues - got raped at group therapy and then took a week to just, what? Get over it?! 🤨 And they never called the cops, they never reported the incident, they never sought justice. Her therapist never mentioned it. Her best friend cared more about her boyfriend throwing a perfume bottle at a wall, than the man who raped her and got away with it?!
What?!?!?!? 🤬
I just... 😮💨 okay, anyways... I kept reading. Their relationship bored me. Neither of them were growing, they were completely stagnant, whiny people who took no rational steps towards becoming healthy. They had no actual chemistry, they both just complained a lot and expected others to conform to their personal rules of fragile handling instead of learning how to love themselves in the face of a cruel and careless world.
They had a lot of sex, then a lot more sex, started talking about moving in together, never discussed STD's, never discussed anything really, other than therapy and coffee with Daphne. He got increasingly upset about her previous sex life and even slut shamed her... which she also thought was fine, (because her therapist was doing a fantastic job in teaching her what self love does and does not look like). And then I put the book down over the weekend and realized I didn't want to pick it up again.
I fully intended to finish the read until I tried to remember where I was- then I didn't want to go back to it. I guess it's just not for me. 🤷🏼♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2022
Holy crap! I fell in love with Zane! I loved this book! Such a amazing rollercoaster! Spicy yet so relatable at the same time. I love your writing, this book was written so good. I can’t wait for your next book! Definitely give this book a read everybody!
June 6, 2022
Mixed feelings about this book hence the 3 stars.
- H & FMC meet at group therapy
- H has anger issues / FMC self harms
- Not particularly spicy
- Some good angsty scenes
- Quite a long book but feels like not much happened
- Took me a few days to read it (had to put it down frequently)
- Feels like it suddenly jumped a large period time (all of a sudden they’ve been dating for 2 years?!)
- Break up in chapter 60 out 65 (like 90% in)
- First 50-60% of the book was drawn out too long
- Towards the end of the book they go from having broken up for 6 months and not having talked to each other since to all of sudden having sex when he shows up outside her apartment one day - and then they get back together straight away?!?
- Ending was rushed (towards the end each chapter jumped a large time period)
Would not necessarily read again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5 Stars
🌶/ 3 Steam
- H & FMC meet at group therapy
- H has anger issues / FMC self harms
- Not particularly spicy
- Some good angsty scenes
- Quite a long book but feels like not much happened
- Took me a few days to read it (had to put it down frequently)
- Feels like it suddenly jumped a large period time (all of a sudden they’ve been dating for 2 years?!)
- Break up in chapter 60 out 65 (like 90% in)
- First 50-60% of the book was drawn out too long
- Towards the end of the book they go from having broken up for 6 months and not having talked to each other since to all of sudden having sex when he shows up outside her apartment one day - and then they get back together straight away?!?
- Ending was rushed (towards the end each chapter jumped a large time period)
Would not necessarily read again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5 Stars
🌶/ 3 Steam
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2022
To start off my overall review of Own Me by Shayna Astor I have to say there are triggers. So 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙙.
Getting to know these characters has been one of my best book experiences I ever had. You don’t always connect with characters on this level and when you do they stick with you and you hold them close to your heart. It’s a reminder that we all have someone who loves us and will be there no matter what even if the bad times out weigh the good.
Jules, she puts on this front to hide what she’s really going through in her life. She’s a lot stronger then she thinks. Her struggles are so real and relatable. This character will touch whoever reads this book. Maybe because you’ve been through something similar or know someone who has. But it gives you hope for better days or at least easier days..
Zane, this guy is for sure the ultimate book boyfriend. He is a fierce protector in a suit and I have to mention that suit because woah. Moving on. He has his own issues like everybody else that has landed him in group therapy with Jules who he can’t seem to figure out at first. He quickly falls for this woman he barely knows and he has this draw to her that he can’t even explain. He needs Jules just as much as she needs him.
There is so much I want to say, need to say about this story. I pride myself on writing reviews without spoilers because I believe that reading a book without knowing what could happen is the best way to read it. You go in somewhat blind except for what you read in the blurb. You feel the experience with fresh eyes and the world just opens up before you. It’s one of the things I love about reading. It changes your life.
Happy reading.
**This ARC was given to me for my complete honest review**
Getting to know these characters has been one of my best book experiences I ever had. You don’t always connect with characters on this level and when you do they stick with you and you hold them close to your heart. It’s a reminder that we all have someone who loves us and will be there no matter what even if the bad times out weigh the good.
Jules, she puts on this front to hide what she’s really going through in her life. She’s a lot stronger then she thinks. Her struggles are so real and relatable. This character will touch whoever reads this book. Maybe because you’ve been through something similar or know someone who has. But it gives you hope for better days or at least easier days..
Zane, this guy is for sure the ultimate book boyfriend. He is a fierce protector in a suit and I have to mention that suit because woah. Moving on. He has his own issues like everybody else that has landed him in group therapy with Jules who he can’t seem to figure out at first. He quickly falls for this woman he barely knows and he has this draw to her that he can’t even explain. He needs Jules just as much as she needs him.
There is so much I want to say, need to say about this story. I pride myself on writing reviews without spoilers because I believe that reading a book without knowing what could happen is the best way to read it. You go in somewhat blind except for what you read in the blurb. You feel the experience with fresh eyes and the world just opens up before you. It’s one of the things I love about reading. It changes your life.
Happy reading.
**This ARC was given to me for my complete honest review**
June 3, 2022
A love story with real meat to it. That is what you get every time you open a Shayna Astor novel. Own me is a love story relevant to the struggles of this current generation. Not only does it bring insight into very real issues we hear about, see, and possibly even struggle with ourselves, but demonstrates love, acceptance, self-awareness, personal growth, and maturity. It is an inspiring story that reminds us that you are not defined by your struggle, triggers, diagnosis, or mental capability, you are not a slave to your emotions. Zane and Jules took a chance, they each let the other in when staying walled up and isolated would feel "safer". This contemporary romance will take you on an emotional rollercoaster as the author does an incredible job sharing the mind and heart of her characters in a way that blurs where you start and they end.
June 2, 2022
First things first, read the trigger warnings!!!
This is the first book I’ve read by Shayna and it took me a while to get my thoughts together to write this review. I LOVE Zane and Jules, they have both been through their own personal hells and now they have to figure out how they can fit together. The rollercoaster that was this book blows my mind, you will laugh, simp, and cry so be ready! Did I feel emotionally drained after reading this? Yeah, I did. Would I do it again? HECK YEAH!!!
I love Shayna’s representation of mental health, so relatable and it gets ahold of you with the rawness of their emotions.
This is the first book I’ve read by Shayna and it took me a while to get my thoughts together to write this review. I LOVE Zane and Jules, they have both been through their own personal hells and now they have to figure out how they can fit together. The rollercoaster that was this book blows my mind, you will laugh, simp, and cry so be ready! Did I feel emotionally drained after reading this? Yeah, I did. Would I do it again? HECK YEAH!!!
I love Shayna’s representation of mental health, so relatable and it gets ahold of you with the rawness of their emotions.
May 11, 2022
Shayna you are a total rockstar author! I loved this book so much! What a crying mess I was reading it! I had all the feels for this book! Can I just say I want my own Zane? Ugh I just love him lol! If you can handle the warnings that Shayna has put on it, read it! She is one of my type favorite author’s I follow. Thank you Shayna for sharing your gift with us! Can’t wait to read more by you! You are so talented!
May 25, 2022
This is one of those books you need to check your trigger warnings and make sure you understand them. But I did love this story it is amazingly written, and the character’s fit in so well with the plot of the book. This will personally be one of my favorite books; my overall rating of this book is 5/5 and I am going to read it again at a later day!
I have received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2022
This is an emotional ride. Jules and Zane go through so much! The trigger warnings are a MUST on this book, but they don't detract from the story in the slightest.
Jules deals with a lot from her past and Zane struggles with anger. They instantly are attracted to each other once they meet, but they know they probably shouldn't pursue anything. When Zane ends up saving Jules their bond intensifies.
This book was so emotional and steamy. Another great read from Shayna.
Jules deals with a lot from her past and Zane struggles with anger. They instantly are attracted to each other once they meet, but they know they probably shouldn't pursue anything. When Zane ends up saving Jules their bond intensifies.
This book was so emotional and steamy. Another great read from Shayna.
September 23, 2022
As someone with selm-harm probs (even though in other ways) I can say its a well done book, the author took care about the topic. Overall I enjoyed their story.
Story 4/5⭐️ smexyness 3/5🌶️
Story 4/5⭐️ smexyness 3/5🌶️
June 7, 2025
So much potential until 50% then bam! All sex and no substance. Now, I’m old but I’m not a prude so some sex in my story helps the day go by. Skimmed 80% on. Too bad. The mental health issues were serious and went pretty deep, so some real angst could have put this to a 5 star for me. Oh well.
May 25, 2022
5 ⭐️ 4 🌶
‼️READ THE TRIGGERS ‼️
Where do I even start with the two broken souls that are Jules and Zane?
While Shayna has tackled both Jules and Zane’s problems is a sensitive and respectful manner. I had to keep taking a break from this book and that isn’t a negative to towards the book or author at all. I connected with Jules on a personal level. Shayna has wrote Jules in such a way it was hard for me not to cry for her. Everything from her inner monologue to her behaviour felt right and so so real. So I will say the triggers are there for a reason please please read them. While this didn’t trigger me it definitely brought emotions to the service.
Then you add in Zane… wow that man while he has his own issues he is perfect for Jules. You’d think they wouldn’t work that they’d be a super toxic couple: but they honestly work so well together.
Mental health is a difficult topic but Shayna has managed to take something dark and turn it into something so beautiful and real this won’t be a story that I will forget in a hurry.
I received an arc from the author in return for my honest review
‼️READ THE TRIGGERS ‼️
Where do I even start with the two broken souls that are Jules and Zane?
While Shayna has tackled both Jules and Zane’s problems is a sensitive and respectful manner. I had to keep taking a break from this book and that isn’t a negative to towards the book or author at all. I connected with Jules on a personal level. Shayna has wrote Jules in such a way it was hard for me not to cry for her. Everything from her inner monologue to her behaviour felt right and so so real. So I will say the triggers are there for a reason please please read them. While this didn’t trigger me it definitely brought emotions to the service.
Then you add in Zane… wow that man while he has his own issues he is perfect for Jules. You’d think they wouldn’t work that they’d be a super toxic couple: but they honestly work so well together.
Mental health is a difficult topic but Shayna has managed to take something dark and turn it into something so beautiful and real this won’t be a story that I will forget in a hurry.
I received an arc from the author in return for my honest review
June 2, 2022
Own Me
By @shayna.astor.author
4/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3/🔥🔥🔥
Will he become my savior, or will I lead him to ruin?
Jules
They say it’s bad when the blade of a knife is what makes you feel.
Failing therapy, my psychologist suggests I try it in a group setting. The problem with that… is the people. Nothing is different, and I’m self-harming just as frequently.
Until Him.
He’s going to be exactly the distraction I need—with his dark suit, darker attitude and mysterious slate eyes.
What I don’t realize is how much he’ll push my limits, my boundaries, and quickly wiggle his way into my closed-off world.
There’s a tiny piece of myself that I keep locked away to protect my heart from inevitable breakage. If I let that piece of me go, that means I let him own me, completely.
Zane
Another blow-up and set of bloody knuckles lands me in group therapy.
It’s exactly as I’d expect it to be.
Except her.
The stunning brunette who teases and stares through the entire first session.
As our flirtation continues, it becomes a dangerous game, which quickly turns into something more. From the moment we met, she's owned me. But I don't own her. Not yet.
Jules has a darkness surrounding her, enveloping her. And it’s stronger than my own.
Can I save her from her demons, when I can’t even save myself?
- This book was definitely one of this authors more darker reads. It has a lot of triggers so make sure you look them up before reading. I saw how a lot of women or people rather could relate to Jules. Jules wants to keep things to herself and doesn’t want anyones pity. So when the handsome newcomer to the group catches her eye and attention she doesn’t want to show him her weakness. Zane is a troubled man that likes his solitary and doesn’t feel the need for people in his life. So when he spots the beautiful brunette he is drawn in from the beginning. These two form a bond and try to navigate the twists and turns of a relationship all while dealing with the problems that they had before they even met. The question is will Zane and Jules be each other’s safety raft that keeps them afloat or the anchor the weighs each other down.
By @shayna.astor.author
4/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3/🔥🔥🔥
Will he become my savior, or will I lead him to ruin?
Jules
They say it’s bad when the blade of a knife is what makes you feel.
Failing therapy, my psychologist suggests I try it in a group setting. The problem with that… is the people. Nothing is different, and I’m self-harming just as frequently.
Until Him.
He’s going to be exactly the distraction I need—with his dark suit, darker attitude and mysterious slate eyes.
What I don’t realize is how much he’ll push my limits, my boundaries, and quickly wiggle his way into my closed-off world.
There’s a tiny piece of myself that I keep locked away to protect my heart from inevitable breakage. If I let that piece of me go, that means I let him own me, completely.
Zane
Another blow-up and set of bloody knuckles lands me in group therapy.
It’s exactly as I’d expect it to be.
Except her.
The stunning brunette who teases and stares through the entire first session.
As our flirtation continues, it becomes a dangerous game, which quickly turns into something more. From the moment we met, she's owned me. But I don't own her. Not yet.
Jules has a darkness surrounding her, enveloping her. And it’s stronger than my own.
Can I save her from her demons, when I can’t even save myself?
- This book was definitely one of this authors more darker reads. It has a lot of triggers so make sure you look them up before reading. I saw how a lot of women or people rather could relate to Jules. Jules wants to keep things to herself and doesn’t want anyones pity. So when the handsome newcomer to the group catches her eye and attention she doesn’t want to show him her weakness. Zane is a troubled man that likes his solitary and doesn’t feel the need for people in his life. So when he spots the beautiful brunette he is drawn in from the beginning. These two form a bond and try to navigate the twists and turns of a relationship all while dealing with the problems that they had before they even met. The question is will Zane and Jules be each other’s safety raft that keeps them afloat or the anchor the weighs each other down.
May 26, 2022
1st person - dual pov
Spice - 4/5
What a story. What a couple. What a powerful message.
I’m going to start this review by saying that checking the trigger/content warnings for this book is an absolute MUST before reading - before you even attempt at reading the first chapter. Mental health is the central theme this story orbits around so do not take those warnings lightly. This is dark in a way that is subtle yet not at the same time. You won’t find explicitly detailed disturbing scenes like in some dark romance - it’s not that kind of dark. It’s dark in the way it grips your emotions. It latches on to your heart and mind and takes you into those struggles the characters are facing. It can make you feel like you’re the one it’s happening to instead of the person outside the pages reading about it. It’s that good.
Jules and Zane both struggle immensely with their demons throughout the book. While they are similar in that aspect their demons are two completely different beasts so the way they deal with them are so opposite from each other. Their challenge is whether or not they can be what the other needs to overcome their darkest moments or if that darkness in them both makes them to toxic for one another.
Can they be each other’s strength at their weakest points? Can the thing that is the best for us in the end also be what breaks us the most? Is love enough to put the broken pieces back together and make us whole? Or does it take something more?
I smiled, I swooned, I laughed a little, I cried a lot.. but this book is so worth the read because it’s a testament to how even the most broken souls can and deserve to heal.
(And don’t think for a minute the spice will be lacking because Zane Montgomery - whew 🥵 that’s one area he should thank his demons for. Absolutely panty melting!)
Spice - 4/5
What a story. What a couple. What a powerful message.
I’m going to start this review by saying that checking the trigger/content warnings for this book is an absolute MUST before reading - before you even attempt at reading the first chapter. Mental health is the central theme this story orbits around so do not take those warnings lightly. This is dark in a way that is subtle yet not at the same time. You won’t find explicitly detailed disturbing scenes like in some dark romance - it’s not that kind of dark. It’s dark in the way it grips your emotions. It latches on to your heart and mind and takes you into those struggles the characters are facing. It can make you feel like you’re the one it’s happening to instead of the person outside the pages reading about it. It’s that good.
Jules and Zane both struggle immensely with their demons throughout the book. While they are similar in that aspect their demons are two completely different beasts so the way they deal with them are so opposite from each other. Their challenge is whether or not they can be what the other needs to overcome their darkest moments or if that darkness in them both makes them to toxic for one another.
Can they be each other’s strength at their weakest points? Can the thing that is the best for us in the end also be what breaks us the most? Is love enough to put the broken pieces back together and make us whole? Or does it take something more?
I smiled, I swooned, I laughed a little, I cried a lot.. but this book is so worth the read because it’s a testament to how even the most broken souls can and deserve to heal.
(And don’t think for a minute the spice will be lacking because Zane Montgomery - whew 🥵 that’s one area he should thank his demons for. Absolutely panty melting!)
May 27, 2022
I was captivated by Shayna Astor’s latest novel. It’s been a long time since I’ve felt this understood by a book. Zane and Jules meet in group therapy, and their love story is perfectly imperfect, just like them. I absolutely adored these characters and quickly fell in love with their story.
Zane is a mysterious addition to group therapy one day that sparks intrigue and sass in Jules. He’s smart, witty, and incredibly caring and protective over Jules, even if he doesn’t understand why at first. He’s the perfect book boyfriend and the perfect match for Jules.
Jules has been through some shit in life. It has left her depressed and jaded, especially when it comes to people sticking around for her. I connected with Jules on an intimate level when it comes to her mental health struggles and her love of books as an escape, as well as her caffeine addiction. So much so that I actually cried half way through the book because of how understood I felt.
Another thing I adored about this book is that it was told from both perspectives, both Zane’s and Jules’. Getting an inside look at their struggles, their feelings for each other, and their passion added a whole other level of rawness to their romance.
Let’s not forget about the spice either. Jules uses sex as a way to cope with life, and her and Zane are explosive together.
This book is such a crucial addition to the mental health conversation, and might be my favourite MF mental health romance. It’s not for the faint of heart and deals with some really heavy themes, but I 100% recommend this book for people who love emotional, raw, and real romances.
Zane is a mysterious addition to group therapy one day that sparks intrigue and sass in Jules. He’s smart, witty, and incredibly caring and protective over Jules, even if he doesn’t understand why at first. He’s the perfect book boyfriend and the perfect match for Jules.
Jules has been through some shit in life. It has left her depressed and jaded, especially when it comes to people sticking around for her. I connected with Jules on an intimate level when it comes to her mental health struggles and her love of books as an escape, as well as her caffeine addiction. So much so that I actually cried half way through the book because of how understood I felt.
Another thing I adored about this book is that it was told from both perspectives, both Zane’s and Jules’. Getting an inside look at their struggles, their feelings for each other, and their passion added a whole other level of rawness to their romance.
Let’s not forget about the spice either. Jules uses sex as a way to cope with life, and her and Zane are explosive together.
This book is such a crucial addition to the mental health conversation, and might be my favourite MF mental health romance. It’s not for the faint of heart and deals with some really heavy themes, but I 100% recommend this book for people who love emotional, raw, and real romances.
May 26, 2022
I don’t even know what to say, aside from wow. I’m having a hard time forming cohesive thoughts after finishing this emotional masterpiece. I feel drained but I’m not complaining. It’s been a while since I’ve had a book impact me on such an emotional level, nonetheless actually cause me to shed tears.
This story is that of two beautifully broken individuals putting each back together piece by piece. The character development was flawless and Shayna is able to connect you to these characters so deeply. Through the highs and lows you feel everything Jules and Zane are feeling, from their deep love for each other to their struggles. I myself was broken and then put back together by the end of this book. At certain points, I almost couldn’t imagine there was going to be a HEA for these two. They deserved it so badly, and I’m so grateful they got it but I really couldn’t see it happening. I was truly sucked into a black hole for a solid day until I finished.
Please, check the triggers before diving in, there is SA and heavy mental health themes such as self harm, anxiety, depression and rage, but if these triggers don’t apply to you, I highly recommend you do.
This story is that of two beautifully broken individuals putting each back together piece by piece. The character development was flawless and Shayna is able to connect you to these characters so deeply. Through the highs and lows you feel everything Jules and Zane are feeling, from their deep love for each other to their struggles. I myself was broken and then put back together by the end of this book. At certain points, I almost couldn’t imagine there was going to be a HEA for these two. They deserved it so badly, and I’m so grateful they got it but I really couldn’t see it happening. I was truly sucked into a black hole for a solid day until I finished.
Please, check the triggers before diving in, there is SA and heavy mental health themes such as self harm, anxiety, depression and rage, but if these triggers don’t apply to you, I highly recommend you do.
May 19, 2022
4.5/5
*please see trigger warnings as this book has a heavy focus on mental health, self harm, and other sensitive content*
Even with the heavy subject, it’s nice to see a romance novel address mental health issues authentically, as well as through both MCs. The author did a nice job showing the both the struggle and the journey many face when held captive by depression, while still keeping focus on the relationship.
There were times I felt that there was repetition, but that might have to do with my preference as a reader who loves a variety of scene locations (the bulk of the story really takes place at home) and less a general fault of the story. I would have loved to see a little more of Zane on his own apart from Jules as I found him a super captivating MMC.
Overall an authentic, emotional read that those who battle issues the MCs have will relate well to, while providing an eye opening experience to those who haven’t lived through them.
*I received an ARC of Own Me and am leaving this review voluntarily*
*please see trigger warnings as this book has a heavy focus on mental health, self harm, and other sensitive content*
Even with the heavy subject, it’s nice to see a romance novel address mental health issues authentically, as well as through both MCs. The author did a nice job showing the both the struggle and the journey many face when held captive by depression, while still keeping focus on the relationship.
There were times I felt that there was repetition, but that might have to do with my preference as a reader who loves a variety of scene locations (the bulk of the story really takes place at home) and less a general fault of the story. I would have loved to see a little more of Zane on his own apart from Jules as I found him a super captivating MMC.
Overall an authentic, emotional read that those who battle issues the MCs have will relate well to, while providing an eye opening experience to those who haven’t lived through them.
*I received an ARC of Own Me and am leaving this review voluntarily*
May 7, 2022
This book really hit home for me. As someone who struggles with self harm, anger issues, and is a victim of SA, this book was hard to read at times. It truly shows how much two people can love each other but need to be apart purely for survival. Jules is suffering from abandonment issue, no self-worth, and th need to cut in order to drown out the demons. Zane has explosive anger, which I also struggle with at times. As much as Jules loves him, sometimes love isn't enough and you have to separate yourself from it to really build yourself up and see just how much you deserve to be loved and have true happiness. The only thing that I wasn't crazy about were all of the months/years time jumps without lnowing what was going on until you read more and find out how much time has passed. A lot of the chapters were only two or three pages so it made the book seen like it was just dragging on at times.
Beautiful story and a HEA despite all of the character's struggles.
Beautiful story and a HEA despite all of the character's struggles.
May 18, 2022
I have been trying to figure out what to say or how to say it for this review. I absolutely loved this book, and I've read everything Shayna Astor has released to date. This book tops all of them. Flynn/Zane is the perfect "I'm an asshole to everyone but the one I love" type of guy. Serena/Jules is the perfect example of someone struggling so very deeply with depression and the ability to believe anyone could love them for good.
This book had me feeling like I was Jules, I could at least imagine the pain she was going through. When two people who struggle with varying issues get together, it's not always a good thing. For these two? It was exactly what they both needed, even if it took one of them longer to see that than the other (and longer than it should have).
If you like to ride a bit of a roller coaster with a good amount of spice mixed in, and aren't sensitive to certain triggers, then please consider giving this book a read!
This book had me feeling like I was Jules, I could at least imagine the pain she was going through. When two people who struggle with varying issues get together, it's not always a good thing. For these two? It was exactly what they both needed, even if it took one of them longer to see that than the other (and longer than it should have).
If you like to ride a bit of a roller coaster with a good amount of spice mixed in, and aren't sensitive to certain triggers, then please consider giving this book a read!
May 19, 2022
Check the TW⚠️⚠️⚠️.
ARC REVIEW ����🌟
Story follows Jules and Zane who meet at a group event. They both suffer from mental health concerns and learn how to cope with each other.
This is a very dark romance and has some trigger content such as:
•anxiety
•depression
•suicidal thoughts
•self-harm
•Rage
Butttt that’s not all! As Jules and Zane learn to navigate together, they ultimately find love! Which is huge for both of them. This is a romance as well so spicy scenes will be included 🌶🌶.
This story was perfectly written, including all the in depth descriptions of how they were feeling. At some points it was a hard pill to swallow but let me tell you! People still look at mental health concerns as taboo and we don’t talk about them like we should! @shayna.astor.author was not afraid to do that here and it was a story that needed to be told!
5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Preorder now!
Available may 25th!
ARC REVIEW ����🌟
Story follows Jules and Zane who meet at a group event. They both suffer from mental health concerns and learn how to cope with each other.
This is a very dark romance and has some trigger content such as:
•anxiety
•depression
•suicidal thoughts
•self-harm
•Rage
Butttt that’s not all! As Jules and Zane learn to navigate together, they ultimately find love! Which is huge for both of them. This is a romance as well so spicy scenes will be included 🌶🌶.
This story was perfectly written, including all the in depth descriptions of how they were feeling. At some points it was a hard pill to swallow but let me tell you! People still look at mental health concerns as taboo and we don’t talk about them like we should! @shayna.astor.author was not afraid to do that here and it was a story that needed to be told!
5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Preorder now!
Available may 25th!
May 22, 2022
So I'll preface this and say the ONLY reason I gave it 4 stars was because the ending felt too cliche. A HFN would have felt more believable than a HEA.
So, let's talk about this book. It's gritty, real, honest, and all shades of gray. Coming from someone with a history of self-harm, this is by far one of the heaviest books I've read to date. It's impossible NOT to empathize with Zane and Jules. They are grown adults looking to make their lives better and struggling every step of the way with their past and the trauma they've endured. Nothing in this felt too easy. It really seemed like Shayna had first hand experience with these types of struggles, and I was along for the ride. I cried, I laughed, I celebrated with the characters every step of the way.
If you like dark contemporary romance with that sparkle of reality that makes a book stay with you until the end of time, here you go.
Please, please look at TW's. They matter.
So, let's talk about this book. It's gritty, real, honest, and all shades of gray. Coming from someone with a history of self-harm, this is by far one of the heaviest books I've read to date. It's impossible NOT to empathize with Zane and Jules. They are grown adults looking to make their lives better and struggling every step of the way with their past and the trauma they've endured. Nothing in this felt too easy. It really seemed like Shayna had first hand experience with these types of struggles, and I was along for the ride. I cried, I laughed, I celebrated with the characters every step of the way.
If you like dark contemporary romance with that sparkle of reality that makes a book stay with you until the end of time, here you go.
Please, please look at TW's. They matter.
June 1, 2022
Wow! Shayna if I haven't told you before you are a favorite author of mine! This book is a dark romance, please read any triggers before you dive into this. I have cried throughout this book multiple times. This, this is a book full of emotion. I can tell this was written from Shanya's heart. Both of the MCs have mental illnesses they are dealing with and when I say the depiction of each illness is so accurate, it does not get much better than this. I related so much to the FMC Jules. I do not want to give too much away but I felt everything she felt throughout this book. It was an emotional rollercoaster. Zane is definitely my new book boyfriend. The thing I loved the most about this book is that there was no judgement towards any of the characters that had an illnesses. Spice is a 3/5 but can we all get a guy like Zane?! 🥵🥵🥵 If you do dive into this please prepare yourself for any triggers and have tissues ready.
May 20, 2022
This book is such an important book to have been written. It brings such awareness to the struggles of mental health and the fact that it's a lifelong struggle that nobody truly recovers from, but rather learns to cope with. Thank you to Shayna Astor for tackling such a personal struggle for so many of us, with truth and grace. In addition to covering such important struggles, it is an amazing love story of two people brought together through their own personal demons, who find solace in each other and an understanding they never found in anyone else. This book is heart-wrenching, tear-jerking, yet it will make you smile and cheer for all that the characters have to overcome. In the end it is a journey well worth the struggle to find the peace they are both looking for. The importance of this topic makes this Shayna Astor's best book yet. Thank you Shayna!
May 24, 2022
Thankyou to Shayna for writing this book. This is a story that need to be told. At first I wasn't sure about it.. Mainly because it came very close to home. This book is dark and has some severe triggers warning, so to the people who are struggling mentally, PLEASE BE AWARE!! You can feel every emotion through these pages especially if you are experiencing similar things. I felt rage, I felt hurt. I understand Jules's struggles through my bones. I felt here low's and here highs, I cried with here and for here. It was hard but is was absolutely worth it. I was lost for words when I finished the book. Not because of the triggers, but even though you feel pain while reading this, you also feel the deepest love, that will clear the negative thought. It was a beautiful story between 2 people struggling mentally, convided there deepest secrets in each other, while hurting and trying to heal in the process.
June 2, 2022
Own Me was beautiful and emotional AF!! This book hit close to home and it got me in my feels majorly. But that doesn't mean this book wasn't good. This book was AMAZING!! There are trigger warnings so please be aware. This book may not be for everyone especially when it can trigger your mental health! What I love about this book is that I was able to relate and that it didn't feel like a book. It felt like a real life story and you can feel that Author Shayna Astor put everything into it. Now let me tell you...😈...the spice was real! This is the second book I have read by Shayna Astor and I believe wholeheartedly that she is out to make me cry and feel every emotion out there. Own Me is a book that I can't wait to add to my bookshelf! I really enjoyed this book beyond belief. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did! 🖤🖤🖤
Happy Reading! 😈
🖤Christian O.🖤
STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE 💦💦💦
Happy Reading! 😈
🖤Christian O.🖤
STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE 💦💦💦
May 23, 2022
This book is a heavy, powerful book, that will probably make you cry, but it's such a beautiful story!
MAKE SURE TO READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!! READ THAT AGAIN, AND MAKE SURE TO READ THE TRIGGER WARNING!!!
I don't even know if I can find the words to write this review. I am just speechless.
Jules is 26 years old, and has depression and self harms. She also has abandonment issues. When she starts to attend group therapy, she meets Zane, who is 28 years old and struggles with controlling his anger.
Zane and Jules story is an emotional rollercoaster, its an amazing story, yet so heartbreaking at times. I can't even put my feelings into words, just read this book!!!
"I'm not just here because you asked me to be. Im here because I cant imagine not being here."
MAKE SURE TO READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS!!!! READ THAT AGAIN, AND MAKE SURE TO READ THE TRIGGER WARNING!!!
I don't even know if I can find the words to write this review. I am just speechless.
Jules is 26 years old, and has depression and self harms. She also has abandonment issues. When she starts to attend group therapy, she meets Zane, who is 28 years old and struggles with controlling his anger.
Zane and Jules story is an emotional rollercoaster, its an amazing story, yet so heartbreaking at times. I can't even put my feelings into words, just read this book!!!
"I'm not just here because you asked me to be. Im here because I cant imagine not being here."
May 28, 2022
This book is not for the faint of heart and deals with some really heavy themes, but I 100% recommend this book for people who love emotional, raw, and real.
This was an awesome read that had me hooked from the moment that I started reading. This book moves along at a pace which makes for an easy read.
I did love this story it is amazingly written, and the character’s fit in so well with the plot of the book. It's goes from enemy to lovers and I love their chemistry.
Zane and Jules meet in group therapy, and their love story is perfectly imperfect, just like them. I connected with Jules on her love of books as an escape from her own mind. They both deal with real world issues in a manner that makes their stories hit you right in the feels, and this book is no exception.
This was an awesome read that had me hooked from the moment that I started reading. This book moves along at a pace which makes for an easy read.
I did love this story it is amazingly written, and the character’s fit in so well with the plot of the book. It's goes from enemy to lovers and I love their chemistry.
Zane and Jules meet in group therapy, and their love story is perfectly imperfect, just like them. I connected with Jules on her love of books as an escape from her own mind. They both deal with real world issues in a manner that makes their stories hit you right in the feels, and this book is no exception.
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