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Obscura
A brand new twisted mind f*ck from the dark diva, Jaden Wilkes!
I was torn apart.
That's all you need to know about me.
A stranger dragged me into the bushes to shatter my world, destroy my body and ruin my future.
I thought I was done, but Zoe found me and things are going to change. The world is going to hear our rage, loud and clear.
We are taking back our lives, one punishment at a time.
But I didn't expect Adam.
Sweet, gentle Adam.
With each kiss, he makes me whole. With each tender moment, he makes me believe again.
And every time he touches me, I am torn asunder and rebuilt into something powerful and beautiful.
I never expected for my world to come tumbling down again.
I never expected any of it.
And this time there are no pieces to pick up, nothing to rebuild.
This time we all fall down.
18+ due to extreme violence, sexual situations and mind fuckery of epic proportions.
I was torn apart.
That's all you need to know about me.
A stranger dragged me into the bushes to shatter my world, destroy my body and ruin my future.
I thought I was done, but Zoe found me and things are going to change. The world is going to hear our rage, loud and clear.
We are taking back our lives, one punishment at a time.
But I didn't expect Adam.
Sweet, gentle Adam.
With each kiss, he makes me whole. With each tender moment, he makes me believe again.
And every time he touches me, I am torn asunder and rebuilt into something powerful and beautiful.
I never expected for my world to come tumbling down again.
I never expected any of it.
And this time there are no pieces to pick up, nothing to rebuild.
This time we all fall down.
18+ due to extreme violence, sexual situations and mind fuckery of epic proportions.
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2017
About the author
Jaden Wilkes
22 books839 followersI write the things that keep me up at night.
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October 27, 2017Obscura was the first novel I ever attempted to write about 15 years ago or so. Some things had come to light in my life and I was dealing with them, this book was my alternative fantasy of how I wanted it to go down. It represents how I felt at the time and how I wished I could be.
It's done now, perhaps the current political climate, the pussy marches and the #metoo stories coming out on social media helped push it forwards, and in spite of these things being traumatic for those involved, I appreciate the opportunity to revisit this time in my life.
It's not a pretty story, it's not a love story, and it's most certainly not a story filled with kindness.
But it is a story of women rising from the ash and expressing themselves in the most violent ways. And it is a warning to those who abuse and rape and destroy.
We're not gonna take it, and we will devour you like air.
It's done now, perhaps the current political climate, the pussy marches and the #metoo stories coming out on social media helped push it forwards, and in spite of these things being traumatic for those involved, I appreciate the opportunity to revisit this time in my life.
It's not a pretty story, it's not a love story, and it's most certainly not a story filled with kindness.
But it is a story of women rising from the ash and expressing themselves in the most violent ways. And it is a warning to those who abuse and rape and destroy.
We're not gonna take it, and we will devour you like air.
November 8, 2017
Is this really my first read by this author. After read Obscure I’m so looking forward to reading more from this author.
Graces life falls apart when she is raped. Every day is a struggle until she meets Zoe and Adam. Both of them in their own way helps Grace to get through the darkest of days.
If your looking for a dark read that’s gonna mess with your head then I highly recommend this gem.
“Men, beware. We are coming for you and we are going to devour you like air”.
Graces life falls apart when she is raped. Every day is a struggle until she meets Zoe and Adam. Both of them in their own way helps Grace to get through the darkest of days.
If your looking for a dark read that’s gonna mess with your head then I highly recommend this gem.
“Men, beware. We are coming for you and we are going to devour you like air”.
November 18, 2017
HOLY SHIT Y'ALL, JADEN MOTHER EFFEN WILKES IS BACK in this T O T A L. M I N D. F U C K. of a book!!!
I was sooo excited to see that she wrote a new book, it's been a while and being one of her biggest fans, I just had to have this book!! Jaden has always been a one click for me!! I will also tell you that I had no idea what Obscura was about, Hell, I didn't even know what Obscura even meant, I just knew I needed to read it!!..lol
So this book starts off with traumatic incident. She has to go through therapy, she hides away in her home. She does not like being around people, especially men. She is sooo scarred that something will happen to her again. But, one day she had to be brave. She had to have some work done to her house. The people that were going to work on her house, they were very good friends of her mom. She needed to trust them so she could get this work done. And this is where she met him. He had kind eyes, he was handsome and was very friendly to her. Her guard was slowly being lowered although she still was having panic attacks. She really liked HIM. But could she let the past go to be with HIM? Would he be able to get past all of her worries from the past?
Go one click Obscura right now my dark loven friends who love those mind fucks as well!!!
I gave Obscura 5 iScream CrAy CrAy CoNeS!!! Just loved it!!! Great job Jaden Wilkes...Welcome back!!!
I was sooo excited to see that she wrote a new book, it's been a while and being one of her biggest fans, I just had to have this book!! Jaden has always been a one click for me!! I will also tell you that I had no idea what Obscura was about, Hell, I didn't even know what Obscura even meant, I just knew I needed to read it!!..lol
So this book starts off with traumatic incident. She has to go through therapy, she hides away in her home. She does not like being around people, especially men. She is sooo scarred that something will happen to her again. But, one day she had to be brave. She had to have some work done to her house. The people that were going to work on her house, they were very good friends of her mom. She needed to trust them so she could get this work done. And this is where she met him. He had kind eyes, he was handsome and was very friendly to her. Her guard was slowly being lowered although she still was having panic attacks. She really liked HIM. But could she let the past go to be with HIM? Would he be able to get past all of her worries from the past?
Go one click Obscura right now my dark loven friends who love those mind fucks as well!!!
I gave Obscura 5 iScream CrAy CrAy CoNeS!!! Just loved it!!! Great job Jaden Wilkes...Welcome back!!!
November 8, 2017
Jaden Wilkes is one of my favorite authors because you never quite know what you will be getting into when you dive into one of her books. They are always unique, dark, and full of twists and psychological suspense that will seriously mess with your mind.
In Obscura, we meet Grace, a young woman who has her life shattered after a violent encounter with a man. Her world as she knows it is destroyed, but somehow, with the help of some key people reaches deep within herself and finds her power. This is a story of women who refuse to take crap from anyone and who seek out the men who hurt women and deliver their own brand of justice.
As you follow Grace, Adam and Zoe's story, every time you think you have a feel for what is happening, Wilkes throws in a twist that leaves you reeling. This story is not for the faint of heart and will be hard to put down because you'll be anxious to know what is happening next. I was fascinated by Grace, Adam and Zoe and was instantly sucked into their world and all its pain, violence and confusion. If you love dark, complicated, twisty dark reads Obscura is one you must add as soon as possible to your to be read list.
In Obscura, we meet Grace, a young woman who has her life shattered after a violent encounter with a man. Her world as she knows it is destroyed, but somehow, with the help of some key people reaches deep within herself and finds her power. This is a story of women who refuse to take crap from anyone and who seek out the men who hurt women and deliver their own brand of justice.
As you follow Grace, Adam and Zoe's story, every time you think you have a feel for what is happening, Wilkes throws in a twist that leaves you reeling. This story is not for the faint of heart and will be hard to put down because you'll be anxious to know what is happening next. I was fascinated by Grace, Adam and Zoe and was instantly sucked into their world and all its pain, violence and confusion. If you love dark, complicated, twisty dark reads Obscura is one you must add as soon as possible to your to be read list.
October 28, 2017
First and foremost, this book is based around the main character, Grace. It is a telling of how she comes back from the darkest of places to find the fire within herself to overcome the traumatic event she has gone through. She finds and clings to two people in her life, Zoe and Adam, to help her find her way back to herself again. Adam provides her with the love, calmness and normalcy in life she so desperately craves, while Zoe gives her the fire she needs in her heart to overcome the fear that cripples her day to day. Zoe also gives her an outlet, of sorts, to deal with the regret of not being able to fight back when she needed to; she gives her the revenge she craves.
I wanted to breathe fire and walk through the streets crushing anyone who got in my way. I wanted to exhale smoke and ash, I wanted to watch them burn.
Fight Club + The First Wives Club + The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo + Hard Candy = The band of women in Obscura.
They would crawl in the dirt the same way they’d made us crawl, only their suffering would be ever after while we transformed with each act of vengeance.
These women take no shit. They take the scum and make them pay. These men instantly regret the day that they ruined someone's life.
Men, beware. We are coming for you and we are going to devour you like air.
So much I can't say. So much I WANT to say. Just know this. You will think you know, but you won't, not really.
I wanted to breathe fire and walk through the streets crushing anyone who got in my way. I wanted to exhale smoke and ash, I wanted to watch them burn.
Fight Club + The First Wives Club + The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo + Hard Candy = The band of women in Obscura.
They would crawl in the dirt the same way they’d made us crawl, only their suffering would be ever after while we transformed with each act of vengeance.
These women take no shit. They take the scum and make them pay. These men instantly regret the day that they ruined someone's life.
Men, beware. We are coming for you and we are going to devour you like air.
So much I can't say. So much I WANT to say. Just know this. You will think you know, but you won't, not really.
November 16, 2017
**I voluntarily reviewed and Advance Reader Copy of this book from Hidden Gems in exchange for my honest review. **
Well unfortunately I was not familiar with this author before reading Obscura. Let me tell you how disappointed in myself I am!!. There are a few reasons I chose read this book besides the cover being absolutely beautiful! I am a sucker for psychological thrillers that grab you and don't let go, the header promised a twisted mind f*uck so that was my first draw. I then read the description and it went through a story of how a young woman was attacked and fought her way to reclaim her life by punishing those who had hurt them. Then something happens...but what?!?! I had to know and I'm so glad I did!!!
Right away we face the reality of Gloria's attack and go through it with her step by step, thought by thought. (Warning this may be difficult to read through if you are a survivor yourself recently). Gloria then moves home with her mom where she receives mental help with her therapist and a great group of girls called the "Surviving Butterflies". This group is good for Gloria but I fear Zoe may be harmful for her. Of course the one girl I don't want her to become friends with she looks up to and follows and is willing to do anything for... or is she. Zoe and Gloria develop this second group after hearing about a group of women who deliver punishments on men who have abused women... The Kingmakers.
Ready to reclaim the power from the men who had destroyed them, Zoe and Gloria lead these girls delivering unheard of punishments upon men. Now, I'm not one that believes in feminism so I struggled with their intentions. Then Gloria says exactly what I was thinking through all of this, "Removing men from our culture wouldn't fix it. You couldn't heal by smashing it apart over and over again." This is something I truly stand behind. There is a huge feminist movement going on but it doesn't have anything to do with raising women, it has to do with lowering men. This is something I cannot support so I was happy to see that things were brought back to where I stand.
With all the lies Gloria was trying to keep together to her mom, her therapist, Zoe, the Surviving Butterflies and Adam. I wasn't sure how she was really "healing" after her attack. Then the big moment comes. Gloria's attacker has been found and his punishment has been assigned. Is Gloria ready? Will she finally follow Zoe beyond no return? One the edge of my seat I walked alongside Gloria through this test and what it would lead to. I was horrified and when the twist came about I was slapped across the face!!! So many emotions flooded through me and I was tingling as I discovered who Zoe really was.
There were a couple things that I found that contradicted themselves. I'm hoping that at some point Wilkes can clear up for me or if I'm just confused and not following along with the twist.
1 The name of the trainer girls went from "Lorelei and Trinity" to "Lorelei and Tiffany"
2. In the beginning she made a comment about having failed all the classes but then she discussed that everything came as incomplete
I liked Gloria, it may have a lot to do with the situation she had found herself in, maybe I felt more sorry for her than anything. I was really confused at where Zoe was leading her. I thought this was going to become either a love fantasy with Zoe since she was thinking of her while having sex with Adam, or was going to put her in a position to have her take the fall. (I was way off). Adam annoyed the crap out of me. I can't stand a lot of talking during the act so I just wanted him to shut up. Gloria's mom concerned me. She was a little too focused on work I felt. Having just had my family in a similar situation, my step-daughter didn't want to be alone a lot so someone is always home for her. I get she has to pay the bills but working really late I don't think was expectable as a parent.
I highly recommend this book and I am looking forward to reading more by Jaden Wilkes.
5 out of 5
Well unfortunately I was not familiar with this author before reading Obscura. Let me tell you how disappointed in myself I am!!. There are a few reasons I chose read this book besides the cover being absolutely beautiful! I am a sucker for psychological thrillers that grab you and don't let go, the header promised a twisted mind f*uck so that was my first draw. I then read the description and it went through a story of how a young woman was attacked and fought her way to reclaim her life by punishing those who had hurt them. Then something happens...but what?!?! I had to know and I'm so glad I did!!!
Right away we face the reality of Gloria's attack and go through it with her step by step, thought by thought. (Warning this may be difficult to read through if you are a survivor yourself recently). Gloria then moves home with her mom where she receives mental help with her therapist and a great group of girls called the "Surviving Butterflies". This group is good for Gloria but I fear Zoe may be harmful for her. Of course the one girl I don't want her to become friends with she looks up to and follows and is willing to do anything for... or is she. Zoe and Gloria develop this second group after hearing about a group of women who deliver punishments on men who have abused women... The Kingmakers.
Ready to reclaim the power from the men who had destroyed them, Zoe and Gloria lead these girls delivering unheard of punishments upon men. Now, I'm not one that believes in feminism so I struggled with their intentions. Then Gloria says exactly what I was thinking through all of this, "Removing men from our culture wouldn't fix it. You couldn't heal by smashing it apart over and over again." This is something I truly stand behind. There is a huge feminist movement going on but it doesn't have anything to do with raising women, it has to do with lowering men. This is something I cannot support so I was happy to see that things were brought back to where I stand.
With all the lies Gloria was trying to keep together to her mom, her therapist, Zoe, the Surviving Butterflies and Adam. I wasn't sure how she was really "healing" after her attack. Then the big moment comes. Gloria's attacker has been found and his punishment has been assigned. Is Gloria ready? Will she finally follow Zoe beyond no return? One the edge of my seat I walked alongside Gloria through this test and what it would lead to. I was horrified and when the twist came about I was slapped across the face!!! So many emotions flooded through me and I was tingling as I discovered who Zoe really was.
There were a couple things that I found that contradicted themselves. I'm hoping that at some point Wilkes can clear up for me or if I'm just confused and not following along with the twist.
1 The name of the trainer girls went from "Lorelei and Trinity" to "Lorelei and Tiffany"
2. In the beginning she made a comment about having failed all the classes but then she discussed that everything came as incomplete
I liked Gloria, it may have a lot to do with the situation she had found herself in, maybe I felt more sorry for her than anything. I was really confused at where Zoe was leading her. I thought this was going to become either a love fantasy with Zoe since she was thinking of her while having sex with Adam, or was going to put her in a position to have her take the fall. (I was way off). Adam annoyed the crap out of me. I can't stand a lot of talking during the act so I just wanted him to shut up. Gloria's mom concerned me. She was a little too focused on work I felt. Having just had my family in a similar situation, my step-daughter didn't want to be alone a lot so someone is always home for her. I get she has to pay the bills but working really late I don't think was expectable as a parent.
I highly recommend this book and I am looking forward to reading more by Jaden Wilkes.
5 out of 5
November 19, 2017
OBSCURA is different from what I’ve come to expect from Jaden Wilkes, who in my opinion is a master at writing dark erotica. This particular book is more of a psychological thriller which I wasn’t expecting but was entertained by. OBSCURA introduces us to Grace, a college student who is brutally raped, irrevocably altering her life. We watch Grace learn to cope with the aftermath thanks to the unwavering support of her mother and by attending both individual and group therapy. Grace becomes involved in a club that reminded me of, “Fight Club” yet this one was for women seeking vigilante justice. Unfortunately, I personally saw the twist coming well in advance but I think many readers will be pleasantly surprised at the curveball Wilkes throws in at the end.
OBSCURA is a reminder that things aren’t always what they seem to be…
OBSCURA is a reminder that things aren’t always what they seem to be…
November 8, 2017
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads*
Obscura was a difficult book to read, please be mindful of the warnings in the beginning - these are serious.
One moment, just one moment in time has the power to completely annihilate a person.
That one moment has the ability to change one so completely that they don't know who they are.
A weak person might not be able to rise from the ashes, where a strong person may not recognize the power they wield.
This story was devastating yet uplifting (in a twisted sort of way). Grace has been dealt a rough hand in life, she has to learn how to re-live. Thankfully, she has a few people in her corner that she can rely on. Zoe is one of those important characters, she is a wild-child where Grace is more meek & mild. I enjoyed reading about both of these ladies, I liked the differences between them. I liked how they both fed off the other.
Not many stories exist where women kick some serious butt. I've never read anything like Obscura, in this regard. Imagine a world where the patriarchy lived in fear of retribution from women! Just IMAGINE. I loved this aspect, absolutely loved it.
Overall, the subject matter was dark, it was twisted, and it was difficult. Please don't let this detract from the book, because this isn't the entire story. This story is about the strength and power that women hold.
Obscura was a difficult book to read, please be mindful of the warnings in the beginning - these are serious.
One moment, just one moment in time has the power to completely annihilate a person.
That one moment has the ability to change one so completely that they don't know who they are.
A weak person might not be able to rise from the ashes, where a strong person may not recognize the power they wield.
This story was devastating yet uplifting (in a twisted sort of way). Grace has been dealt a rough hand in life, she has to learn how to re-live. Thankfully, she has a few people in her corner that she can rely on. Zoe is one of those important characters, she is a wild-child where Grace is more meek & mild. I enjoyed reading about both of these ladies, I liked the differences between them. I liked how they both fed off the other.
Not many stories exist where women kick some serious butt. I've never read anything like Obscura, in this regard. Imagine a world where the patriarchy lived in fear of retribution from women! Just IMAGINE. I loved this aspect, absolutely loved it.
Overall, the subject matter was dark, it was twisted, and it was difficult. Please don't let this detract from the book, because this isn't the entire story. This story is about the strength and power that women hold.
November 4, 2017
Obscura by Jaden Wilkes
3.5 stars
M/F Dark Romance
Triggers: Rape, Murder, Stalking
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Grace is just your average college student until she is brutalized. What follows is a tale of how she gains her power back.
She becomes almost obsessed with finding people who harm others - brutalize them and who the justice system either hasn't caught up with or they seemed to skirt the system.
This is a dark tale and if you are faint of heart, it's not for you.
Zoe is another character, as well as Adam who help Grace find her power, but who also have the power to take away her free will.
I enjoyed the psychological thriller and how the twists and turns wove through the story. While it was dark and twisty, it also had a quasi-good message about not living your life as a victim.
3.5 stars
M/F Dark Romance
Triggers: Rape, Murder, Stalking
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Grace is just your average college student until she is brutalized. What follows is a tale of how she gains her power back.
She becomes almost obsessed with finding people who harm others - brutalize them and who the justice system either hasn't caught up with or they seemed to skirt the system.
This is a dark tale and if you are faint of heart, it's not for you.
Zoe is another character, as well as Adam who help Grace find her power, but who also have the power to take away her free will.
I enjoyed the psychological thriller and how the twists and turns wove through the story. While it was dark and twisty, it also had a quasi-good message about not living your life as a victim.
October 28, 2017
During the course of beta reading this book I was trying to find ways to describe it. of course dark is one word that we are used to if you've read other books of Jaden's. Just describing it as dark doesn't even scratch the surface of what kind of book it is. During moments while reading I was likening it to a fucked up version of the First Wives Club, just without the marriage and with an R certificate instead of PG13 revenge, lol that was one. The next thing it reminded me of was Kill Bill 1 and 2, there's kick ass female characters in it who are sick of what has happened to them and want to take action, reclaim their lives. There's a male character to feed those who like a love story in with their dark reads. And I don't want to post any spoilers so I need to tread carefully. There are mind fucking twists and turns in it that will leave you open mouthed and staring at your ereader not able to fully take in what you just read. This book is unputdownable. I sat down with it when I got home from the office and read until well after 11pm with no dinner and very few bathroom breaks, I just could not stop reading. I needed to find out what happened next. Where it was heading, until I had finished the book and was still sat there with shock evident on my face. Bravo Jaden, you've been gone too long, but this is a helluva comeback 😍
November 5, 2017
I recieved a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I always jump at the chance to read anything by this author. I love her and her books. This book wasn't what I was expecting but still very good. It isn't for the faint of heart this book has a lot of triggers in it so please make sure you know what you are going into. With that being said you are in for one hell of a ride. I enjoyed the story, it kept my attention and was for sure a page turner. Twisted as it was it was a powerful story.
I always jump at the chance to read anything by this author. I love her and her books. This book wasn't what I was expecting but still very good. It isn't for the faint of heart this book has a lot of triggers in it so please make sure you know what you are going into. With that being said you are in for one hell of a ride. I enjoyed the story, it kept my attention and was for sure a page turner. Twisted as it was it was a powerful story.
October 27, 2017
5 Epic Mind Blowing Stars from me!
I have missed this author and was excited to beta-read her latest - Obscura.
The start of this book is full on, brutal, violent sexual acts and straight to the point. We then follow her, Zoe & Adam's story - and what a crazy ass story they have to tell.
Fighting back against the bad guys one step at a time, but are those steps going to be too far and result in a total blow out.
Obscura is very well written, flowed, kept me hooked throughout, fed my dark hunger and twisted desires and when I finally thought I understand the game my mind was completely and utterly destroyed.
Well Played Jaden Wilkes - Well played indeed!.
I have missed this author and was excited to beta-read her latest - Obscura.
The start of this book is full on, brutal, violent sexual acts and straight to the point. We then follow her, Zoe & Adam's story - and what a crazy ass story they have to tell.
Fighting back against the bad guys one step at a time, but are those steps going to be too far and result in a total blow out.
Obscura is very well written, flowed, kept me hooked throughout, fed my dark hunger and twisted desires and when I finally thought I understand the game my mind was completely and utterly destroyed.
Well Played Jaden Wilkes - Well played indeed!.
October 29, 2017
This was everything I would expect from this author, but then again... It wasn't. It's thrilling and chilling. Then you add a few sexy bits for a story that really takes you for a wild ride. It's a dark and thought provoking read, so some may need to keep this in mind if you are squeamish. If you haven't read Jaden's books you are really missing out. Enjoy!
November 11, 2017
Obscura is about a university student that gets attacked and violently- and I mean, violently- raped on campus. After a long recovery in the hospital, she is now faced with rebuilding her life whilst crippled with anxiety and fears of anything beyond her mother’s home. Obscura is raw in its confrontation of rape and the debilitations that linger after an attack. It’s not always pretty, but it impresses upon the fact that it’s necessary.
This book is difficult to rate. On one hand, it’s well-written and engaging. I admire Wilkes’ ability to describe very traumatic events without making it overly disturbing, but just enough to shake you. On the other hand, this is a psychological thriller, so of course there’s a pretty significant twist. Unfortunately for me, I figured it out a third of the way into the book. After that point, I was too preoccupied with getting to the reveal to really focus on the story. I was hyper-aware of all clues that seemed to confirm my suspicions about the ending, and I think that prevented me from absorbing the story’s full impact.
I highly recommend going in blind. Trigger warning: rape, extreme violence, references to pedophilia.
Sidenote: But Ms. Wilkes, if you read this, please know that I and others would love to have a Serial IV. Seriously, that story is amazingly depraved and I love it.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is difficult to rate. On one hand, it’s well-written and engaging. I admire Wilkes’ ability to describe very traumatic events without making it overly disturbing, but just enough to shake you. On the other hand, this is a psychological thriller, so of course there’s a pretty significant twist. Unfortunately for me, I figured it out a third of the way into the book. After that point, I was too preoccupied with getting to the reveal to really focus on the story. I was hyper-aware of all clues that seemed to confirm my suspicions about the ending, and I think that prevented me from absorbing the story’s full impact.
I highly recommend going in blind. Trigger warning: rape, extreme violence, references to pedophilia.
Sidenote: But Ms. Wilkes, if you read this, please know that I and others would love to have a Serial IV. Seriously, that story is amazingly depraved and I love it.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2017
The warnings are true - this is a mind $@#% and there are many triggers so be aware of that going in. Having said that take a minute to read the author's goodreads review of the book and you will also understand a bit more the labor of love that went into writing this. I had not read this author before but something in the synopsis had me excited , maybe the warning , maybe the promise of something dark and twisted - who knows but I am so glad I took a chance !!
Grace has been trying to recover from the horrible events that left her hospitalized and torn apart. She suffered at the hands of a stranger and also suffered loss. Present time she seems to be on the road to recovery. She reluctantly goes to therapy and group where she meets Zoe AND feeling confident at home helps her catch the eye of Adam. Grace really is living 2 different lives if not more - she plays along for her mother and therapists sake yet with Adam she is so wild and free and with her new friends from group she is dark , depraved and out for revenge. I admit a few times I thought I had things figured out , I was waiting for the AHA moment but before it came I would realize I was wrong. So many scenarios popped into my mind because I knew this couldn't be straightforward. Something was going on and the author did a great job planting seeds and keeping you hooked. I won't deny my thinking the girls had a great idea going on with their revenge plans but man there was some pretty nasty details in there. I definitely plan to check out this author's work because I really do enjoy the dark and twisted.
Grace has been trying to recover from the horrible events that left her hospitalized and torn apart. She suffered at the hands of a stranger and also suffered loss. Present time she seems to be on the road to recovery. She reluctantly goes to therapy and group where she meets Zoe AND feeling confident at home helps her catch the eye of Adam. Grace really is living 2 different lives if not more - she plays along for her mother and therapists sake yet with Adam she is so wild and free and with her new friends from group she is dark , depraved and out for revenge. I admit a few times I thought I had things figured out , I was waiting for the AHA moment but before it came I would realize I was wrong. So many scenarios popped into my mind because I knew this couldn't be straightforward. Something was going on and the author did a great job planting seeds and keeping you hooked. I won't deny my thinking the girls had a great idea going on with their revenge plans but man there was some pretty nasty details in there. I definitely plan to check out this author's work because I really do enjoy the dark and twisted.
March 21, 2019
Powerful
I can relate to this story because I too am one of the many victims of abuse and rape. I relate more to Grace than Zoe, although at times, I was very angry and enraged. I worked through all of it with the help of friends. The groups I went to weren't much help. It was good to know I wasn't alone, but it was more heartbreaking to know. This story was dark and that small part of me wondered...would I? I'm glad you finished this book. It has changed my perspective on things.
I can relate to this story because I too am one of the many victims of abuse and rape. I relate more to Grace than Zoe, although at times, I was very angry and enraged. I worked through all of it with the help of friends. The groups I went to weren't much help. It was good to know I wasn't alone, but it was more heartbreaking to know. This story was dark and that small part of me wondered...would I? I'm glad you finished this book. It has changed my perspective on things.
November 17, 2017
This is a very dark, sad, and angry book by Jaden Wilkes about the struggles of women coming to terms with their sexual assaults and the resulting physical, but more importantly, the psychological damage it can cause. It is also a very intriguing story of how one woman in particular deals with her sexual rape, and at times it also rather scary for men in general. This is a voluntary review of an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Hidden Gems.
November 8, 2017
Obscura
People say that everyone deals with events differently. The main character, Grace,had to deal with the aftermath of rape. She struggles to understand who she is, what life holds for her, and there is love to be had.
The beginning of the story was totally tragic. I felt Grace's pain and wanted her to heal. I could clearly see that she was hiding different facets of her life.
1. There was the life she had with her mother and therspist, Dr. Sutter.
2. There was the life she was secretly building just for her and Adam.
3. Then there was the life she was experiencing with the rebel Zoe.
It make sense for Grace to have a therapist and have the support of her mother. I was even okay with the love she was experiencing with Adam. It seemed like he truly cared. Zoe was a character that I didn't want to factor into Grace's life. She was so manipulative.
Oh my god... The twist, which I should have seen coming, but I didn't. It totally blindsided me. I didn't understand why Grace was so drawn to Zoe. Zoe was the psycho who Grace should stay away from...
I understand now why Zoe played a factor in Grace's life. It is totally brilliant. I'm not going to tell. You have to read it and find out like I did. But my god is totally messed up and so utterly sad.
People say that everyone deals with events differently. The main character, Grace,had to deal with the aftermath of rape. She struggles to understand who she is, what life holds for her, and there is love to be had.
The beginning of the story was totally tragic. I felt Grace's pain and wanted her to heal. I could clearly see that she was hiding different facets of her life.
1. There was the life she had with her mother and therspist, Dr. Sutter.
2. There was the life she was secretly building just for her and Adam.
3. Then there was the life she was experiencing with the rebel Zoe.
It make sense for Grace to have a therapist and have the support of her mother. I was even okay with the love she was experiencing with Adam. It seemed like he truly cared. Zoe was a character that I didn't want to factor into Grace's life. She was so manipulative.
Oh my god... The twist, which I should have seen coming, but I didn't. It totally blindsided me. I didn't understand why Grace was so drawn to Zoe. Zoe was the psycho who Grace should stay away from...
I understand now why Zoe played a factor in Grace's life. It is totally brilliant. I'm not going to tell. You have to read it and find out like I did. But my god is totally messed up and so utterly sad.
November 17, 2017
Dark, twisted, surprising.... cleverly written and expressive. A story of how we cope after the unimaginable happens. Not for the faint of heart so heed the warnings for the book. This was my first Jaden read and it won't be my last. I really enjoyed this, the darkness and undeniable struggles of hope especially.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much*
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much*
November 7, 2017
Obscura by Jaden Wilkes is a psychological suspense thriller. Grace was violently raped while attending college. Now home she is trying to get her life back but she is having a hard time getting over what has happened to her. When Adam comes into her life she feels like she is getting better and has found someone who can love her. After the traumatic rape and the harm done to not only her body but her mind she knows Adam is all she needs. When Zoe brings her into a group of fellow sufferers Grace now has people who understand what she is going through. When she has to chose between the two, Grace starts a descent down the rabbit hole. It has been awhile since I have read this author and I really enjoy her style of storytelling. By the end of the book, and all was revealed my mind had been blown. Part of the story I kinda guessed but I definitely didn't expect how this story ended. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I give this story 4 stars.
November 8, 2017
This is my first read from Jaden Wilkes, but I knew what I was getting into...
The dark and the violence doesn't affect me much and this story has a lot of it, a lot!
Clearly by reading the blurb you see this is a twisted kind of story and I like those very much and I was excited for it.
This is the story of a young woman that was brutally raped and her journey to recover from it.
She sees herself in a plan for revenge. Everything is possible in this crazy plan until her life shatters again.
Although I understood the plot and even the hints at some point, I got a bit confused with some facts, and I was left with a lot of questions.
The dark and the violence doesn't affect me much and this story has a lot of it, a lot!
Clearly by reading the blurb you see this is a twisted kind of story and I like those very much and I was excited for it.
This is the story of a young woman that was brutally raped and her journey to recover from it.
She sees herself in a plan for revenge. Everything is possible in this crazy plan until her life shatters again.
Although I understood the plot and even the hints at some point, I got a bit confused with some facts, and I was left with a lot of questions.
November 12, 2017
this book was so messed up and isnt for people with weak stomachs. its about a young woman who was raped left for dead ans scarred for life. she goes to a group who some in the group decide to start there own group called red hands. you have to read why and what happens.
November 11, 2017
This was a perfect thriller. I loved the story concept and of kept me on edge until the end
December 16, 2017
If you clutch at pearls and hide behind a fan while reading, then this book is not for you!!!! But believe me when I say that you are missing out on an amazing book. We meet Grace, who in one horrifying and gruesome night her life is forever changed. Months later, she lives in the shadows and fear of the outside world. She tries a different therapist who suggests she goes to a group of women who have been through the same horrendous situation and maybe try and find some solace in the ladies around her. Around that time two things happen, she meets to different people, Zoe, a woman from the group that seems so fearless and commands attention and instantly grace feels some connection. She also meets a nice, sweet guy Adam who might be able to give her enough courage to put trust back into a man. Zoe decides to make a group where women that have been abused, find justice against the men that have done them wrong and regain the power that was stolen from them. Grace becomes empowered by this newfound group and takes a second in command lead. She is living two completely opposite lives with Zoe and the group and with Adam, but once Graces life is again irrevocably changed, not everyone might not make it out alive.
Well damn!!!!! I saw a post from the author that she said that the readers would need a puppy or kitten after you read this book and she wasn't wrong, I would actually need a zoo of babies animals to cuddle after that, lol. This isn't the first or last book I've read of Jaden Wilkes and it won't be the last, but the thing about this author is that she isn't afraid to push boundaries and test your limits of comfort. This book can be confronting, brutal, volatile, but at the same time it is intricate and beautifully delicate that readers can empathise with the characters that is effortless. Just when I thought I had a grasp of the story or I thought I knew where it was going and BAM it went in a completely different direction and it had me on the edge of my chair the whole time. This book was brilliant and I loved 'The Red Hands', it was refreshingly unique to have something like this that could be seen as empowering. But I will wait at my mailbox for the deed to my new baby animal zoo, while re-reading this book. 5 RED STARS!!!!
~~Reviewed by Lipsmackin Goodbooks~~
Well damn!!!!! I saw a post from the author that she said that the readers would need a puppy or kitten after you read this book and she wasn't wrong, I would actually need a zoo of babies animals to cuddle after that, lol. This isn't the first or last book I've read of Jaden Wilkes and it won't be the last, but the thing about this author is that she isn't afraid to push boundaries and test your limits of comfort. This book can be confronting, brutal, volatile, but at the same time it is intricate and beautifully delicate that readers can empathise with the characters that is effortless. Just when I thought I had a grasp of the story or I thought I knew where it was going and BAM it went in a completely different direction and it had me on the edge of my chair the whole time. This book was brilliant and I loved 'The Red Hands', it was refreshingly unique to have something like this that could be seen as empowering. But I will wait at my mailbox for the deed to my new baby animal zoo, while re-reading this book. 5 RED STARS!!!!
~~Reviewed by Lipsmackin Goodbooks~~
November 7, 2017
3.5 stars
Grace Goodwin has always been a secluded person. Someone that was barely noticed by others around her. After a malicious tragedy Grace was left broken. Afraid of the world and the people in it. Then Grace meets Adam and a spark is started. She doesn't understand why but he arouses something in her. At the same time Grace started going to therapy and group meetings. Little by little Grace started to get her life again. The more she gains some control back the more she notices things are not what they seem. Will Grace be able to put two and two together and save herself? Or will she fall into the darkness that has surrounded her?
This was my first book by this author. So I did not know what to expect. When I started Obscura I was drawn in. As the book continued it started to lose interest. I still needed to know how the book ended. The reason why I have this book 3.5 stars is because the end seemed to predictable. I would recommend this book to others with a warning that it is not a favorite but that they may like it. I will read other books by this autbor and see of i like her others.
Grace Goodwin has always been a secluded person. Someone that was barely noticed by others around her. After a malicious tragedy Grace was left broken. Afraid of the world and the people in it. Then Grace meets Adam and a spark is started. She doesn't understand why but he arouses something in her. At the same time Grace started going to therapy and group meetings. Little by little Grace started to get her life again. The more she gains some control back the more she notices things are not what they seem. Will Grace be able to put two and two together and save herself? Or will she fall into the darkness that has surrounded her?
This was my first book by this author. So I did not know what to expect. When I started Obscura I was drawn in. As the book continued it started to lose interest. I still needed to know how the book ended. The reason why I have this book 3.5 stars is because the end seemed to predictable. I would recommend this book to others with a warning that it is not a favorite but that they may like it. I will read other books by this autbor and see of i like her others.
November 22, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book” "Men were air and we were coming for them. Devouring and growing strong." This book is definitely dark and twisted, so aptly named. I was somewhat conflicted while reading this book ,that's how twisted it is but it was well written. Grace was brutally raped during her college years and she has not been the same, struggling to exist. She finally meets Adam who she falls in love with because he makes her feel alive again and seems to accept her flawed body. Grace starts going to group therapy where she meets and befriends Zoe. Zoe takes her under her wing and together with a select group of friends Zoe and Grace start a vigilantes group called The Red Hands Club doling out wicked and sick punishments to those that have wronged them. When Zoe starts to become controlling she sets her sights on Adam and the story that unravels takes you totally by surprise. A big curve ball thrown out of left field hits you and I found the twist genius. Definitely well written and if you like this genre, this book may be for you..
November 19, 2017
This story starts out as if it is true life. How to survive a brutal rape. The pain and anguish that Grace had to endure from such an abhorrent act that left her so scared and traumatised it ruled her life. ( sadly this story and what happened to Grace happened to a young girl right here in my home town but instead of a knife the rapist used a broken bottle).
I had the twist pegged at about one third of the way in but it did not take away from the story. I was eager to turn every page and devour them. Jayden Wilkes delves us deep into the life and all of the survival tricks that Grace had to endure just so she could function. It's dark, sick,twisted and a definite mindf***. I totally loved everything about this book
I had the twist pegged at about one third of the way in but it did not take away from the story. I was eager to turn every page and devour them. Jayden Wilkes delves us deep into the life and all of the survival tricks that Grace had to endure just so she could function. It's dark, sick,twisted and a definite mindf***. I totally loved everything about this book
November 15, 2017
This was the weirdest freaking book I have ever read. In the beginning it was so very good and drew you in but the farther you went into the book the stranger it got. Grace was raped on her college campus when she walked to her dorm after studying. After time goes by and she joins a survivors group they decide to start hurting men that have hurt women. There is a huge plot twist that I didn't see coming which ended up making me wish I never read the book at all because it was so far fetched (the twist wasn't far fetched but how far it was taken was). I would pass this book by.
I received this book for my honest review
I received this book for my honest review
November 21, 2017
I received an ARC book- and here is my honest review. This isn't my first book I have read from this author and was so excited to read it. I had a hard time with this book- had to make myself read it and told myself maybe I just had to get a little further and it would pick up- I was at 60%. It had great content and messed with your mind- but I guessed what was going on. Will I recommend this book? Of course! Her other books I have read I really liked, this one just wasn't one I liked- others will like it better.
November 16, 2017
I'm not really sure what my response to this book is.
It's theme is dark and tragic, yet has aspects of light and hope.
The story centres around Grace, a young woman living through a violent attack, and her effort of trying to get her life back on track.
The book is well written, but I just wasn't able to enjoy it.
Three and a half stars.
I received an ARC of Obscura and this is my honest review.
It's theme is dark and tragic, yet has aspects of light and hope.
The story centres around Grace, a young woman living through a violent attack, and her effort of trying to get her life back on track.
The book is well written, but I just wasn't able to enjoy it.
Three and a half stars.
I received an ARC of Obscura and this is my honest review.
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