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UN-Breakable

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Kidnapped, tortured, and now a slave, Gwen stays focused on ways to survive while waiting for her opportunity to escape. She had planned on being in New York after graduation, starting a business, and making her dreams come true. But all that was stolen from her one fateful night. With another scratch on the wall to signify the number of days, she knew her time was running out. There were no other options available, she'd either leave this place alive or die trying. Nick's debt to an infamous drug lord had finally been repaid. He was preparing to move away, start over, and live a peaceful life. But when he finds Gwen hiding in the closet, broken and all alone, everything changes. No longer concerned with his own welfare, Nick makes a deal with the devil that'll change everyone's life forever. But will it be in time to save the girl?

240 pages, Paperback

Published March 17, 2021

23 people are currently reading
60 people want to read

About the author

S.K. Lessner

5 books46 followers
A native of the Chicago area, I've traveled the world and had the opportunity to work in refugee camps, medical camps, and in community assistant groups. Although I could write many nonfiction stories about these places, I much prefer fiction and the creativity that comes with it. I currently live in Indiana, among the cows and flat lands filled with row after row of corn. There are many words that could describe me: mom, wife, sister, the 'crazy aunt,' the first to jump into any adventure (while pulling you by the arm and insisting you join me), or even the quiet one that feels for others on a level that few understand. But what you really need to know is why I write.

For me, writing is more than just a window into my head...it's the chance to share things I've seen, I've dreamt, and things I long for with fellow readers. It's nothing short of magical to bring that to life for others to experience it with me!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Dilushani Jayalath.
1,029 reviews195 followers
November 26, 2019
Despite the misleading cover, the book is a rather dark romance and a fair warning to those who have not read it yet, if you are repelled by rather descriptive information of humiliation and rape and such please do not read this book.

The story starts with our h, Gwen being held captive. The amount of realistic imagery and feeling that the author puts in the book manages to take you on an emotional ride. At times I really did not want to read the whole passage, not because I was repelled or such but because I just could not handle it. Even imagining myself or someone I know in such a position made me feel very sad and desolate in a way. Although the beginning and somewhat in the middle was a tad too sad, in between all of that we are also taken on the journey of healing of both Gwen and Nick. Even with the obstacles thrown their way they manage to save themselves and each other too. They fact that they are with heavy burdened pasts makes it somewhat easier for them to understand each other and be patient with each other but also the fact that the two of them don't let the past decide who they are is what truly shows that the two are fighters and survivors. The absolute love and patience that Nick showed to Gwen and the complete honesty and trust that Gwen placed in Nick is what made them so compatible. What the future holds for both of them is still unclear but we are left with the hope that the two of them will manage to cross any hurdle life throws at them as they are together.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews124 followers
Want to read
April 2, 2022
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/22/2019)! 🎁
2,152 reviews14 followers
May 10, 2017
UN-Breakable by rape survivor S.K. Lessner is a Dark Romance

Gwen's life had looked so promising 6 months ago ... as a 22 year old graduate from the University of Georgia who had landed a job at the esteemed Monroe Management Firm in New York City, she was going to leave her old life and drug addicted family behind. Until she decided to go to Daytona Beach and enjoy a week-long celebration with friends after graduation. And ended up kidnapped by the evil and sadistic Alex who's training her to be a sex slave. Nick is an assassin who's passing on a warning to Alex from boss before leaving to start a new life when he sees a naked, bloody, bruised, and emaciated woman with a tear stained face. Sickened by what he saw, Nick postponed his dream of living in peace to strike a deal with his boss, two more jobs from Nick in exchange for the girl, on the condition that nobody knew the boss was involved, as the boss didn't want to look weak. Nick's plan to take Gwen away from Alex succeeds and they stay at Nick's cabin in the woods until things die down. Nick continues to work for his boss at night but spends his free time hanging out with the sweet and beautiful Gwen, getting to know each other, and soon start falling for each other. Gwen has never been so wildy attracted to someone as she is to the kind and handsome Nick and is happy for the first time in her life. When someone tries to kidnap Gwen, Nick moves them to another home, but she's kidnapped while he's at work. Will Nick be able to save Gwen a second time? Will they get the HEA?

UN-Breakable is dark, distressing, intense, suspenseful and touching. S.K. Lessner paired a poignant story with vulnerable characters for a captivating read that will have you marvelling at the bravery of the hero and the resilience of the heroine. Here, in S.K. Lessner's own words, is her reason for writing this story:

This is dedicated to the millions of men, women, and children whose voices are never heard. May we one day live in a world where rape and sex trafficking never exists.
For those who, like myself, have been the victim and fought the battle in silence ~
never give up!

It is my hope that this story empowers anyone who has been through similarly traumatic situations, filling them with the strength and encouragement to know that they can overcome any evil that is brought against them ~
because our bodies may be broken, but our spirit will forever be
UNBREAKABLE.

I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
Profile Image for Dora Harvey.
1,120 reviews8 followers
May 9, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

This book was full of emotional angst, scorching love scenes, and a compelling storyline that will keep you on the edge of your seat to find out what happened next. I loved how the romantic relationship builds between the two protagonists. When reading the story, it may make you feel sad, confused, appalled, and even euphoric. What moves me is just how S.K. Lessner was able to make their situations seem credible and realistic—their hurts, ambivalence, etc. There are several twists and turns within the storyline with suspense, kidnapping, torture, rape, human trafficking, sex, sex—did I say SEX that is off the chart hot, and intrigue that makes it very interesting and compelling. The scenes are well written, fast-paced and flow smoothly from one scene to the next. This book will take you through an emotional journey of loyalty, trust, commitment, and love. The story will also pique your interest and draw you in from the beginning to the very end.
Profile Image for Stacey Broadbent.
Author 63 books249 followers
May 6, 2017
Wow. This book was A-Maze-Ing. A heartfelt, emotional roller coaster ride, written by someone who has had first hand experience in a situation that I wouldn't wish upon my worst enemies. This book has everything. Angst, fear and loathing, but also love, trust and hope.

Right from the very first chapter, I was captivated by Gwen. The strength that she found in herself to carry on and pull through even though she was at the mercy of a despicable man who was grooming her for her "new owner". I shudder at the thought that this actually goes on.

And Nick. The man who is unable to walk away. He has his own share of demons in his past, but something about Gwen makes him want to protect her. This man is swoonworthy. He is someone you want to have on your side. You will fall for him, as I did.

This book deals with some pretty serious issues, and I feel as though the author has done a fantastic job at portraying these issues in a tasteful way. I wanted to cry and scream in parts, and felt my heart swell in others. I'm not gonna lie, there were times I wanted to reach into my kindle and wrap my hands around the throat of some of these characters. They were truly horrendous people with not an ounce of good in them. But what shone through, was the resilience of Gwen, and the hope that Nick instilled on her. The trust between these two, and the love that found its way through even after everything.

I absolutely loved this book!
Profile Image for Energy Rae.
1,756 reviews55 followers
May 8, 2017
Normally my reviews tend to go over the book from my point of view and I just don't think that is going to do this book justice.

Lessner has created an amazing woman in Gwendolyn (Gwen). She is smart, strong, resourceful and fiercely independent. While some authors tend to write their characters as insecure in themselves when it comes to relationships Gwen is anything but and that is what made me love her even more so. Having to endure some of the worse imaginable being set to be sold into the sex trade, Gwen is the epitome of strength and knowledge.
Semi-quoting from UN-Breakable: "...I thought about how he'd wanted me with the same intensity as I'd wanted him.....I figured he was trying to be respectful of my limits..."
Here, in most books, when a guy is pulling away from a girl, the girl gets all insecure and thinks she did something wrong. Not Gwendolyn.
It is brilliant writing such as this that makes this book so fantastic.
There were so many instances in this book where I was either yelling at Nick to open his eyes or cheering on Gwen. It's an emotionally heartbreaking and heartwarming book. To be able to pull this off and create such strong characters is absolutely brilliant.
I love that Lessner has pulled in serious, real life issues that affect millions of people into such a strong plot line supported by extremely well-written characters and brilliant writing, this is by far one of my most favorite books of the year.
Profile Image for Jasmine.
661 reviews7 followers
May 8, 2017
This is a very emotional book from page one until the end. It is uncomfortable reading something so heartbreaking, but it gives you hope as you find strength in Gwen's actions and will to survive. This is very powerful and emotional as we go on Gwen's journey with her.

Gwen was taken during spring break and held captive for six months trying to find a way to get out from Alex's harshness. Nick was a hitman who was getting out of the game, but when he dropped by to see Alex, he unknowingly met Gwen by only seeing each other. He knew from that moment, he had to save Gwen from that awful reality and give her a better chance at life. He foregoes his freedom in exchange for Gwen's.

Their story continues as they find a way to bond, exist and thrive while overcoming their past. Can they both learn to trust again without hurting the other one? Can they get over what James did Gwen in spite of Nick?

Life is not fair and knowing situations like this happen all too often, it is better to be like Gwen and Nick and be un-breakable in the face of what life has to throw your way. Survivors are strong even when they feel weak. They live and fight for freedom that we should never take for granted.

I received an ARC for my honest review.
Profile Image for Louise H's Book Thoughts.
2,035 reviews315 followers
April 24, 2022
Dark? Well, the heroine is kidnapped to be trained as a sex slave but nearly all of this is off-page. She is also beaten in one scene so there is that to bear in mind, but the vast majority of the book didn't have that sense of imminent danger, or of psychological trauma, or of non-consensual acts that make a book feel dark to me.


My personal description would be that this story is a gritty, romantic suspense similar to the more realistic mafia and M.C. romances on the market. There is a major focus on character and relationship development, so even though it didn't give me the thrill of anxiety I get from a very dark book, I soon became captivated by this story. Gwen and Nick were likeable, believable individuals who captured my heart long with my attention. Whilst Nick is a man who does bad things, he has a good heart underneath it all and towards the end of the book, we learn just how he became tangled in this spider's web of evil and corruption. In many ways he is just as much a victim as Gwen, both of them renewed and improved by the healing power of their love.


So, not a book I'd recommend as a dark read, but certainly one I'd recommend for the romance between the two protagonists.
Profile Image for Pam.
138 reviews8 followers
May 8, 2017
This book was heartbreaking and empowering at the same time. It is a tribute to all those who have suffered rape or worse trafficking. It will have you heartbroken and angry. It will have you despairing for mankind and what we do to one another. It will give you hope and hopefully enable you to recognise the strength within us all to survive at all costs. With luck it will make you think about those who have been raped and repudiate those who say they deserved it because of how they dressed or lived their lives. With luck it will make us all stronger in the push toward convictions not only for rapists but for any who commit domestic violence or any violence against children, women or even vulnerable men.
So yes the storyline was dark but the heroine was strong and fiesty and knew when to cave, she was funny and intelligent and deserved to have love in her life.
I would recommend this book for all mothers, grandmothers and most especially all daughters who think it couldn't happen to them.
Let us hope we all have the core strength that Gwen has. Thank you Ms Lessner for a well written book which was incredibly thought provoking and had a wonderful happy ending.
Profile Image for Angela Adams.
10 reviews
May 8, 2017
This book was amazing!!!! The events in the book took me on an emotional roller coaster of; fear, sadness, hope and love, captivating me so I was unable to put it down until it was finished.

Gwen... What a survivor!! I loved her from the start and my heart begged for a happy ending for her. The journey that Gwen was forced to take was heart wrenching to read, and at some points very very hard to continue.

Nick gave me hope I so wanted for Gwen, right from the first time he set eyes on her. He is strong, caring, protective, and completely lovable.

This book has been written amazingly well, and the author has written about some serious and so real issues in a powerful but cultivating way. At times I wanted to turn away, I wanted to scream and cry, as some of the characters in this book are nothing but ruthless, horrible people. Even with all the horrible people both Gwen and Nick encountered, it was evident the hope that Nick gave Gwen and through this they could find love.

I admire the way the author has used her past to install hope, and provide people who go through anything similar the power to tell people
I received an ACR copy for an honest review
2,290 reviews18 followers
May 8, 2017
What an emotional, heartbreaking, heart wrenching, breathtaking story by S.K. Lessner. From the first pages to the last I couldn't put it down and I didn't want to. Gwen is strong beautiful strong woman who has survived the worst and had almost given up until she spots Nick and just from one look she knew she wasn't alone. Nick couldn't let her go and would do anything to free her even if it entailed giving up his freedom from the Boss.
What transpires between the two is breathtaking, two lost souls who find each other in a dark dark world and overcoming their haunted pasts to be happy and be together.
S.K. Lessner wrote a story that may trigger some painful memories for some but knowing there is hope and being able to overcome an unthinkable act whether it was inflicted on a woman or a man, being with that special someone to overcome your fears....breathtaking...and with an ending that had my tears flowing...words cannot describe.
Even though I received an ARC I bought the book to show my support for the author and for the women and men who should never have had to endure a despicable act whether it be physical, emotional, psychological or sexual abuse.
Profile Image for Pamela Greving.
125 reviews
May 10, 2017
**I did receive an Advanced Reader Copy of Unbreakable by S.K. Lessner in exchange for my honest review**

This is my first book by S.K. Lessner. When reading a new author, it's hard because you have no idea what to expect. I am so glad that I had the privilege of reading Unbreakable. This book is captivating. If you are looking for a book that can make you feel all the feels, this is it. At one point or another I was angry, sad, happy, smitten, pissed off, wanting to chuck the kindle, and relieved. Like I said, ALL OF THE FEELS! Unbreakable was fantastic. There are a few minor triggers, but I feel that it is important for everyone to read about the reason S.K. Lessner wrote Unbreakable. Kudos to her for overcoming her own situation. Definite 5-star for me. I loved Gwen, she was strong even when she could have been weak. Nick was fantastic and I liked that he never was "above" her, he came with his own baggage. I also think that Lessner picked a perfect time to reveal what that was. As for the other characters. SCUM I SAY, SCUM. Anyhow, it wouldn't have been a story without them ;)
Profile Image for Rebecca Grove.
3,492 reviews26 followers
May 25, 2017
Gwen has been kidnapped and held captive for six months. Her captor is training her to be a sexual slave but she keeps fighting him.She is constantly humiliated,starved, beaten and manipulated. Then one night she pushes back to hard and she sees her death in her captor's eyes. She finally gives in to save her life and hopefully gain a chance to kill her captor later. That night a visitor comes to the house and accidentally sees Gwen. Nick is an assassin who works for the same boss as her captor. He was ready to live his life of crime behind until he sees Gwen. He is hit with the strongest desire to free Gwen and keep her for his own.After weeks of planning, Nick gets the chance to free Gwen and takes her to his cabin to keep her safe.
Gwen is thrilled to be taken away from her captor but she is not sure if Nick is trustworthy. Nick just has to win her trust and keep the other bad guys from getting their hands on Gwen. This is a good but dark book. Even though Nick is a killer, he treats Gwen like a princess. He takes care of her without expecting any return. I voluntarily received a copy of this story and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for SJ.
2,354 reviews15 followers
May 6, 2017
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and voluntarily decided to review it

This story has a very hard subject matter, and to learn that the author found their self in a similar situation makes it that much more of an emotional read

The storyline is gritty, but also hopeful, romantic and awe inspiring, written with a realness and sensitivity and it left me feeling profoundly touched. It is well written and leaves you on the edge of your seat, with the protagonists strength of character and her unlikely hero's actions both heartwarming and loveable

This is a great book, I really enjoyed it and highly recommend this book

A side note to say I am not the best at getting my thoughts and feelings down in a review so apologies if my review seems disjointed and awkward- that is just how I am
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.2k reviews92 followers
May 8, 2017
Gwen was preparing to start the next stage of her life until the horrible night that changed everything and now she has been kidnapped, tortured and counting the days until she is sold as a sex slave.

Nick has a troubled past but has finally earned his release from being a hitman until he sees Gwen and he wants to protect her and he should walk away but his conscience won’t let him.

This book is an emotional rollercoaster ride that won’t leave you untouched and it shows you the worst and best of human nature and gives you hope. I loved the characters as Gwen was strong and not just willing to accept what was happening to her and Nick being the honorable and protective man that he was is not willing to just leave her when he knows what the end result would be for her. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
3,925 reviews31 followers
May 14, 2017
This book sure packed a punch - it may have started out dark, but there was hope and light shining through. Gwen was an innocent taken and thrust into a nightmare, until Nick happened to find her by chance, or divine intervention. It was a rough road for Gwen, and a horrible experience for her, but with Nick she gradually came back into the light. Heartrending and emotional, UN-breakable put a twisted spin into abduction that we can only hope never happens again. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Linda Levine.
4,638 reviews25 followers
May 16, 2017
This is a story that is hard to read at times. It is emotional as you really feel her pain. She still remains so strong which really impressed me. Nick sees a chance to help her. His past has left him with a lot of darkness in his soul. Their relationship is very intense.

The story is based on the real situations that occur in this country and throughout the world. Women and young girls disappear every day and people need to become more involved in addressing the issue.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
Profile Image for Ann Kelly-Uhryn.
220 reviews3 followers
May 6, 2017
The first scene caught me by surprise, it wasn't expected and made me pause briefly before continuing. This is a story between Gwen and Nick. You can't help but want to insert yourself into the story to help not only Gwen but Nick too. The story was well written and I honestly couldn't put the book down other than to fulfill my motherly duties. I highly recommend this story to anyone who wants a good read!
Profile Image for Modern.
1,338 reviews6 followers
May 7, 2017
Highly recommended. Warning: violence- both physical and verbal, sexual content, triggers.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book or author, Unbreakable being my first- and NOT my last with Lessner. It possessed me. It held me, suffocated me, released me. What an amazing and uplifting message told through a dark, unimaginable experience. A very moving story. I received this book for a voluntary, completely honest and non incentivized review.
2,596 reviews10 followers
August 11, 2017
This book is both heartbreaking and breathtaking. From the first page and beyond it sucks you in and you won't want to put it down. Gwen is a very strong, young, beautiful and determined woman. Her determination and strength are fascinating. It's a dark story, so be prepared your emotions will be taken on a wild ride. The story will draw you in and see two broken souls try to help heal each other. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
Profile Image for SouthernAngel.
1,618 reviews9 followers
May 8, 2017
A strong, powerful heartfelt and emotional roller-coaster ride that'll have you feeling their pain long after you've finished reading. This is the horrifying darker side of humanity that people would rather ignore than do something about.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Jennifer Woodrow.
200 reviews3 followers
May 15, 2017
Invincible

This book was devastating in content, showing the destruction of a woman caught in a sex slave ring and how she tries to put herself back together with the help of a man who had suffered much the same way. It is well written, suspenseful with characters who fly off the page with realism. My only negative comment is "What happened to the dog"?
Profile Image for Lexee Toste.
2,822 reviews19 followers
May 23, 2017
I enjoyed this read...it deals with a very hard topic though, sex trafficking. It is also very prevalent in this story. Gwen is captive for a decent part of the story. It's graphic and explicit so be aware before grabbing this story. I think the story is well done and handled in a good way but it is brutal as well. Nick has ended up in a life of crime not exactly by choice. When he sees Gwen held captive as he is doing a different job for his boss he can't just walk away. He forms a plan to get her out of there but it takes some time and is not by lawful means. I liked how the story developed between Gwen and Nick. I thought it was well done and the topic is handled well. It's not necessarily an easy story to read because of the topic and the fact that Gwen is captive for so much of it. Everything fits the story and how it's set up though. It's well done and I did enjoy it.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Crystal.
2,713 reviews1 follower
May 30, 2017
Un-Breakable is a dark, emotional romance read. The author draws the reader in from beginning to end. I couldn't put it down. The story was captivating and the twists and turns will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. The characters were dealing with real life happenings and raw emotions. Gwen is such a strong character. Must Read!
Profile Image for Heather.
1,654 reviews3 followers
June 25, 2017
UN-Breakable, by S.K. Lessner, is a romantic suspense. This story was unbelievably raw, realistic and showcased characters that were not all sunshine and daisies. Real events that most couldn't imagine have come in and caused chaos they need to find themselves out of. Well written and definitely one of the best books I've read this year.
Profile Image for Quen Barlow.
440 reviews
June 1, 2017
This book is packed with so much emotion. It's well written and definitely worth your time your heart will go out to the characters. This is my first book by S.K Lessner but definitely not my last I highly recommend this book. I voluntarily read a arc copy
222 reviews3 followers
July 13, 2017
Outstanding

I tend to read really dark books but this story ended with so much light and love it is just wonderful! I just love the characters and can so relate to Gwen. Nick is fantastic too!
Profile Image for Nichole Durham.
29 reviews17 followers
August 3, 2017
I loved reading this book it gave me goosebumps but could not put it down i look forward to hearing from you soon and thanks again for the great book read

I choose 5 🌟 due to great read and it also proved I to can overcome enything just keep the faith
Profile Image for Kathleen Eyke.
Author 6 books12 followers
May 7, 2017
Moving, gripping, horrifying glimpse into the darker side of our world people would rather ignore than do something about. You will be changed by this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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