Mariannj’s Reviews > Beyond Surrender > Status Update
Mariannj
is on page 28 of 372
What makes it even harder to read is knowing that this isn't just fiction. It happens in real life. I know, through my sister's work, of young victims who have endured similar abuse, and it fills me with anger toward predators. It's heartbreaking that something so horrific is a reality for so many. Ji hope the story handles this subject w/ the gravity it deserves, coz it's a deeply disturbing way to begin the book.
— Aug 02, 2026 02:07AM
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Mariannj’s Previous Updates
Mariannj
is on page 172 of 372
I'm interested to see how the author handles the heroine's journey after this. Too many older bodice rippers treat sexual assault as little more than a plot device, with the heroine showing little to no psychological trauma afterward—as if such a devastating experience would have no lasting emotional impact. I'm hoping this novel takes a more thoughtful and realistic approach to portraying the aftermath.
— Aug 02, 2026 07:35AM
Mariannj
is on page 171 of 372
The villain is absolutely revolting. He's a lecherous predator, and the scene where he rapes the heroine was deeply disturbing. I've read a number of bodice rippers before, but rape is never something I can gloss over. It's horrifying and unsettling.
— Aug 02, 2026 07:34AM
Mariannj
is on page 103 of 372
Despite the unsettling opening scenes, this book itself has kept me reading because the pacing is strong and the writing is engaging.
I normally dislike first-person narration, but in this case the author's voice has gradually won me over.
— Aug 02, 2026 06:38AM
I normally dislike first-person narration, but in this case the author's voice has gradually won me over.
Mariannj
is on page 28 of 372
I'm only a few pages into, and I'm already sickened. An old, lecherous family friend molests and kisses the heroine, who is still a minor. Reading about an adult taking advantage of a child is absolutely disgusting.
— Aug 02, 2026 02:05AM