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Love & Ruin #2
Love & Deception
Lies. Deceit. Delusions. After a family emergency, I sink into a deep depression, longing for what I can no longer have. Hendrix. My feelings for him are a noose around my heart. As hard as it is for me to keep my distance, I'm still drawn to him. He's like a magnet, pulling me with all his strength, loving me, protecting me, and giving me a reason for something to believe in. Nothing good lasts forever. I'm sucked into a dark, dangerous world, and become a target. Now it's my turn to protect the man I love. The only way I see how is to push him away. But when I'm clinging to my last breath, begging for my life, my heart cries out for the one man who really loves me. The only man who can save me. Will Hendrix reach me in time, or is this goodbye forever?
- GenresRomance
266 pages, Hardcover
First published December 13, 2018
About the author
J.A. Owenby
43 books1,153 followersAmazon and International bestselling author J.A. Owenby grew up in a small backwoods town in Arkansas, where she learned how to swear like a sailor and spot water moccasins skimming across the lake.
She finally ditched the south and headed to Oregon. The first winter there, she was literally blown away a few times by ninety-mile-an-hour winds and storms that rolled in off the ocean.
Eventually, she longed for quiet and headed up to snowier pastures. She now resides in Washington state with her hot nerdy husband and cat, Chloe (who frequently encourages her to drink). She spends her days coming up with ways to torture characters in a way that either makes you want to throw your book down a flight of stairs or sob hysterically into a pillow.
J.A. Owenby writes new adult and romantic thriller novels. Her books ooze with emotion, angst, and twists that will leave you breathless. Having battled her own demons, she’s not afraid to tackle the secrets women are forced to hide. After all, the road to love is paved in the dark.
Her friends describe her as delightfully twisted. She loves fan mail and wine. Please send her all the wine.
She finally ditched the south and headed to Oregon. The first winter there, she was literally blown away a few times by ninety-mile-an-hour winds and storms that rolled in off the ocean.
Eventually, she longed for quiet and headed up to snowier pastures. She now resides in Washington state with her hot nerdy husband and cat, Chloe (who frequently encourages her to drink). She spends her days coming up with ways to torture characters in a way that either makes you want to throw your book down a flight of stairs or sob hysterically into a pillow.
J.A. Owenby writes new adult and romantic thriller novels. Her books ooze with emotion, angst, and twists that will leave you breathless. Having battled her own demons, she’s not afraid to tackle the secrets women are forced to hide. After all, the road to love is paved in the dark.
Her friends describe her as delightfully twisted. She loves fan mail and wine. Please send her all the wine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
December 15, 2021
Part 2
2 🤔🤔⭐️s
While the drama escalated, Gemma’s character changed and was irritating and not that likeable to me anymore. The story was dragging and became frustrating.
This part was also told by Gemma’s pov and tbh it was very monotonous.
With all the above, I lost interest to the extent of not reading the last part of this trilogy.
2 🤔🤔⭐️s
While the drama escalated, Gemma’s character changed and was irritating and not that likeable to me anymore. The story was dragging and became frustrating.
This part was also told by Gemma’s pov and tbh it was very monotonous.
With all the above, I lost interest to the extent of not reading the last part of this trilogy.
January 16, 2021
This was a great second instalment in the trilogy. There’s a lot of angst and action, and there are quite a few shocking plot twists. This book picks up right where the insane cliffhanger from the first book left off, and it doesn’t let up with the emotional angst all the way through.
Mac is incredibly strong as a secondary character, and I love the way that she deals with her ADHD. I’m really looking forward to the fourth book in the series, which follows her as she falls in love.
While I enjoyed this book, there were a few things about Gemma that started to grate on my nerves. Her motivations are very unclear and wishy washy. That would be okay if that’s a major personality characteristic for her, but in the first book she didn’t have this as a weakness. She became quite strong and independent in the first book. I understand her being confused about how she feels about Hendrix after the false accusation about him came forward at the end of the first book, but she immediately switched from not knowing if she could trust him to needing to protect him for his own good. The rationale for keeping them apart for the majority of the second book in the trilogy was too unfocused for me. The author needed to pick a lane and stick to it, or have a better transition between the two lanes when the plot needed it.
I also realized that the resolution of them getting back together was quite rushed, and as a result, Gemma comes across as very selfish. Touring and playing music is Hendrix’s dream and his chosen career path, but once Gemma decides she wants him back, she’s okay with keeping him from going to Europe. She didn’t even feel bad about it. Meh.
I still give this book 4 stars because of the delicious angst, and while I was annoyed with Gemma, damn it if I didn’t stay up past my bedtime to find out what would happen.
Mac is incredibly strong as a secondary character, and I love the way that she deals with her ADHD. I’m really looking forward to the fourth book in the series, which follows her as she falls in love.
While I enjoyed this book, there were a few things about Gemma that started to grate on my nerves. Her motivations are very unclear and wishy washy. That would be okay if that’s a major personality characteristic for her, but in the first book she didn’t have this as a weakness. She became quite strong and independent in the first book. I understand her being confused about how she feels about Hendrix after the false accusation about him came forward at the end of the first book, but she immediately switched from not knowing if she could trust him to needing to protect him for his own good. The rationale for keeping them apart for the majority of the second book in the trilogy was too unfocused for me. The author needed to pick a lane and stick to it, or have a better transition between the two lanes when the plot needed it.
I also realized that the resolution of them getting back together was quite rushed, and as a result, Gemma comes across as very selfish. Touring and playing music is Hendrix’s dream and his chosen career path, but once Gemma decides she wants him back, she’s okay with keeping him from going to Europe. She didn’t even feel bad about it. Meh.
I still give this book 4 stars because of the delicious angst, and while I was annoyed with Gemma, damn it if I didn’t stay up past my bedtime to find out what would happen.
October 24, 2018
Dark, sexy, and intense. Love & Deception is an emotional ride that doesn’t let you go. The characters are multi-dimensional, and the plot twists left my mouth hanging open. I loved it, and I can't wait for book 3!
October 24, 2018
Another excellent book by JA Owenby that I could not put down. Bring on the next one please! The aha moments were so impressive!
February 10, 2020
Love & Deception – J. A. Owenby
Love & Deception continues Gemma and Hendrix’s story. This is where we find out just how and why Gemma is so damaged and why it is so hard for her to trust and believe in people.
Having just found out her mother has died in a terrible car accident, as she is leaving to return for her mother’s funeral Andrea accuses Hendrix of rape. That brings back her memories and having been raped when she was only 14 Gemma’s mind takes free reign over her thoughts.
Coming back is like closing the door to her recent past and just living in darkness. Her mother is gone, her father is behaving strangely and Hendrix is worried about her but she has nothing to give right now. She is overwhelmed and scared. Luckily she has Ada Lynn to talk to that is if she can ever move forward from the depression she has sunk back into. To add to her worries Mac surprises her by moving to the town. To keep everyone safe she has to figure out why her father is behaving the way he is. Why is he drinking so much? Why can she feel the veiled violence coming off him and why won’t Hendrix just let her be?
Days go by and things just seem to worsen for Gemma. She finds Ada Lynn on the floor of her bedroom. Ada Lynn had a heart attack and Gemma feels guilty because she knows Ada Lynn has been worried about her living with her father.
That night things come to a head with her father who calls her a liar, a thief, a whore and beats her until she passes out. Is this what the alcohol has done to him? Is he just grieving or has she missed something while growing up. She had been in such a depression and spent little time in the company of her parents after she gave birth and locked herself away. How could she have missed this?
Will he go after Ada Lynn as well at Gemma? Will he go after Hendrix and Mac if they come around to visit her?
J. A. Owenby moves us through this story of a love that was wonderful but ruined to a love that can end up rescuing Gemma from the darkness and lies that have come to a head. Again, I couldn’t put this book down as the story moves towards an explosive ending that moves us on to Book 3 of the trilogy. I can only say I’m now one of J. A. Owenby’s biggest fans!
Love & Deception continues Gemma and Hendrix’s story. This is where we find out just how and why Gemma is so damaged and why it is so hard for her to trust and believe in people.
Having just found out her mother has died in a terrible car accident, as she is leaving to return for her mother’s funeral Andrea accuses Hendrix of rape. That brings back her memories and having been raped when she was only 14 Gemma’s mind takes free reign over her thoughts.
Coming back is like closing the door to her recent past and just living in darkness. Her mother is gone, her father is behaving strangely and Hendrix is worried about her but she has nothing to give right now. She is overwhelmed and scared. Luckily she has Ada Lynn to talk to that is if she can ever move forward from the depression she has sunk back into. To add to her worries Mac surprises her by moving to the town. To keep everyone safe she has to figure out why her father is behaving the way he is. Why is he drinking so much? Why can she feel the veiled violence coming off him and why won’t Hendrix just let her be?
Days go by and things just seem to worsen for Gemma. She finds Ada Lynn on the floor of her bedroom. Ada Lynn had a heart attack and Gemma feels guilty because she knows Ada Lynn has been worried about her living with her father.
That night things come to a head with her father who calls her a liar, a thief, a whore and beats her until she passes out. Is this what the alcohol has done to him? Is he just grieving or has she missed something while growing up. She had been in such a depression and spent little time in the company of her parents after she gave birth and locked herself away. How could she have missed this?
Will he go after Ada Lynn as well at Gemma? Will he go after Hendrix and Mac if they come around to visit her?
J. A. Owenby moves us through this story of a love that was wonderful but ruined to a love that can end up rescuing Gemma from the darkness and lies that have come to a head. Again, I couldn’t put this book down as the story moves towards an explosive ending that moves us on to Book 3 of the trilogy. I can only say I’m now one of J. A. Owenby’s biggest fans!
June 19, 2023
Gem ma's Strength
Gemma's strength is undeniable. She has depression issues but with all she has been through she is dealing with it better than most would. After running home after her moms accident she finds out more than she bargained for. When her dad starts drinking secrets are revealed and He ma's world is no re than inside down. Trying to protect Hendrix her head tells her she must let him go but her heart says hold on tight. Ada Lynn is 83 and Gem a worries about her all the time. She is her family along with Hendrix and Mac.
Mac has.meet someone Jeremiah and he seems like a good guy but I think there is more to that story. After sometime apart and a bunch of new information Gemma's heart wins out and she allows herself to be with Hendrix.
Now to bet the scoop on Mac and the new guy.
Rating: 3 1/2 Stars
Gemma's strength is undeniable. She has depression issues but with all she has been through she is dealing with it better than most would. After running home after her moms accident she finds out more than she bargained for. When her dad starts drinking secrets are revealed and He ma's world is no re than inside down. Trying to protect Hendrix her head tells her she must let him go but her heart says hold on tight. Ada Lynn is 83 and Gem a worries about her all the time. She is her family along with Hendrix and Mac.
Mac has.meet someone Jeremiah and he seems like a good guy but I think there is more to that story. After sometime apart and a bunch of new information Gemma's heart wins out and she allows herself to be with Hendrix.
Now to bet the scoop on Mac and the new guy.
Rating: 3 1/2 Stars
October 24, 2018
Book 2 - Love & Deception. While reading this book, I went through every single emotion with Gemma. I absolutely LOVE that Hendrix refuses to give up on Gemma.. even when she tries her hardest to push him away. Their love for each other feels so intense and so real. Owenby's work always makes me feel as though I personally know each character. I feel like I'm right there with them going through their tragedy and triumph. This is the ONLY book that has made me tear up while reading it. I HIGHLY recommend this series!! My opinion.... it's Owenby's BEST work yet!
December 13, 2018
Holy Crap! Can we talk about those plot twists? Nope won't do it! Not spoiling this for no one. You have just got to read it for yourselves. This was another amazing read by Mrs. Owenby! Once I started this book I couldn't put it down until I finished every last page. This book was another emotional rollercoaster with lots of twists and turns that will make you say WTH! There is just no words to describe this book...I am truly speechless. I can't wait to read book three to see what happens next! Another five star read by a five star author!
August 2, 2023
Kinda all over the place
3.5
This book was just like the inside of Mac's head. If you read book one, which you need to, y'all know what I mean.
This one takes you through the wringer. Gemma, Gemma, Gemma, what am I gonna do with you? My girl power vibes are strong for this one, so there'll be no dragging her. I didn't enjoy this one as much as book one, but I think I may be addicted to this series. I can't help but love the characters and the relationships they have with each other.
A lot, and I mean a lot, happens in it. It's a ride. I'm looking forward to what's next with these cast of characters.
3.5
This book was just like the inside of Mac's head. If you read book one, which you need to, y'all know what I mean.
This one takes you through the wringer. Gemma, Gemma, Gemma, what am I gonna do with you? My girl power vibes are strong for this one, so there'll be no dragging her. I didn't enjoy this one as much as book one, but I think I may be addicted to this series. I can't help but love the characters and the relationships they have with each other.
A lot, and I mean a lot, happens in it. It's a ride. I'm looking forward to what's next with these cast of characters.
October 20, 2021
Love & Deception by J.A. Owenby is a new adult romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Stephanie Nemeth-Parker. This is the second book in The Love & Ruin series.
This book does come with a caution: "This book includes mature content and possible triggers."
This is the second book of J.A.'s that I have read and it won't be my last. I absolutely love the friendship between Gemma and Mackenzie. I am really enjoying the slow building relationship between Gemma and Hendrix.
Stephanie did an amazing job on the narration. She really knows how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of her work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you like slow burn romances, new adult romances, contemporary romance, or romantic suspense.
The Flock Team
Audiobook Obsession Reviewer
This book does come with a caution: "This book includes mature content and possible triggers."
This is the second book of J.A.'s that I have read and it won't be my last. I absolutely love the friendship between Gemma and Mackenzie. I am really enjoying the slow building relationship between Gemma and Hendrix.
Stephanie did an amazing job on the narration. She really knows how to bring a story to life. I look forward to listening to more of her work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you like slow burn romances, new adult romances, contemporary romance, or romantic suspense.
The Flock Team
Audiobook Obsession Reviewer
December 4, 2018
Buckle up, Buttercup! If you thought Love & Ruin was an intense beginning to this trilogy … it was just the tip of the iceberg! Love & Deception is the perfect title for book two, the continuation of Gemma’s and Hendrix’s turbulent story. It’s heart wrenching and emotional and will keep you riveted to the pages as Gemma struggles to make sense of shocking secrets about her past and her uncertain future with Hendrix.
This is everything I want in the second book of a trilogy. Compelling writing, twists and turns to keep me on my toes, as well as character and plot development that take this beautiful story to the next level of amazing.
This is everything I want in the second book of a trilogy. Compelling writing, twists and turns to keep me on my toes, as well as character and plot development that take this beautiful story to the next level of amazing.
May 10, 2021
Gemma finds herself is Louisiana, following the tragic loss of her mom, and her world has been ripped apart, turned upside down, and shaken. She doesn't have Hendrix anymore, she left Washington, and she and her dad are estranged.
Mac saves the day by uprooting her life and moving to Louisiana to be with Gemma. Mac is a good friend.
My hang up with Gemma is that she doesn't believe Hendrix when someone accuses him of something awful, after Hendrix has treated Gemma with such love and care. And she takes to long to forgive him. She constantly pushes him away when he could've been there for her as her world continued to fall to pieces. She could've leaned on him, and I think that's something that she learns to do, because it's something she's never had, so she doesn't know how to trust and let people in.
Gemma moves back home to help her father adjust to the loss of her mother. But, Gemma's father is a monster, and the longer Gemma is in that house with him, the more in danger she feels. When her father becomes abusive, Gemma fears for everyone around her, including Ada Linn, Mac and Hendrix. But O MY GOSH, Gemma's father, I did not see that coming! I thought he was just a religion fanatic, but NO! That was an excellent plot twist that really changed the story for future books!
While Gemma is living in Louisiana and thinking she's trying to move on, she puts herself into situations she's never been in and even tries dating...though quickly realizes she's not over Hendrix, but still too stubborn to forgive him. Even after the girl admits she lied about her accusations against Hendrix, Gemma drags her feet and comes up with a whole new slew of reasons as to why they can't be together. She's protecting him from her father, she doesn't want to hinder his career, she wants him to reach his dreams and she doensn't believe she can stand by his side.
I love Hendrix though. He does not give up. That boy goes through great lengths to get Gemma to realize he loves her and she's it for him. Gemma pushes Hendrix away so hard, that he finally puts his foot down and gives her an ultimatum. He can follow his music dream overseas, but that's it for him and Gemma. Or Gemma can finally choose him, because she will always be his choice. Gemma thinks she is protecting everyone from the truth of her father.
When things seem like they are finally settling and life is going their way, the ultimate disaster strikes and Hendrix is ripped from Gemma again, but this time she might not get him back.
These books are roller coasters. This is only book 2, and I feel like my emotions have gone through the ringer. Gemma cannot have any worse luck or deal with anymore drama then she already is. My only hang up is that she takes too long to forgive Hendrix and she's to self sacrificing for her own good. Highly recommend this series, the books just get better and better!
Mac saves the day by uprooting her life and moving to Louisiana to be with Gemma. Mac is a good friend.
My hang up with Gemma is that she doesn't believe Hendrix when someone accuses him of something awful, after Hendrix has treated Gemma with such love and care. And she takes to long to forgive him. She constantly pushes him away when he could've been there for her as her world continued to fall to pieces. She could've leaned on him, and I think that's something that she learns to do, because it's something she's never had, so she doesn't know how to trust and let people in.
Gemma moves back home to help her father adjust to the loss of her mother. But, Gemma's father is a monster, and the longer Gemma is in that house with him, the more in danger she feels. When her father becomes abusive, Gemma fears for everyone around her, including Ada Linn, Mac and Hendrix. But O MY GOSH, Gemma's father, I did not see that coming! I thought he was just a religion fanatic, but NO! That was an excellent plot twist that really changed the story for future books!
While Gemma is living in Louisiana and thinking she's trying to move on, she puts herself into situations she's never been in and even tries dating...though quickly realizes she's not over Hendrix, but still too stubborn to forgive him. Even after the girl admits she lied about her accusations against Hendrix, Gemma drags her feet and comes up with a whole new slew of reasons as to why they can't be together. She's protecting him from her father, she doesn't want to hinder his career, she wants him to reach his dreams and she doensn't believe she can stand by his side.
I love Hendrix though. He does not give up. That boy goes through great lengths to get Gemma to realize he loves her and she's it for him. Gemma pushes Hendrix away so hard, that he finally puts his foot down and gives her an ultimatum. He can follow his music dream overseas, but that's it for him and Gemma. Or Gemma can finally choose him, because she will always be his choice. Gemma thinks she is protecting everyone from the truth of her father.
When things seem like they are finally settling and life is going their way, the ultimate disaster strikes and Hendrix is ripped from Gemma again, but this time she might not get him back.
These books are roller coasters. This is only book 2, and I feel like my emotions have gone through the ringer. Gemma cannot have any worse luck or deal with anymore drama then she already is. My only hang up is that she takes too long to forgive Hendrix and she's to self sacrificing for her own good. Highly recommend this series, the books just get better and better!
October 13, 2021
Love & Deception
The Love & Ruin Series, Book 2
By: J.A. Owenby
Narrated by: Stephanie Nemeth-Parker
Ok, I admit it. I am totally hooked on this series. This is book 2 and no, I didn't go to sleep until I finished the book! We pick up where book 1 leaves off, and Gemma has gone home after the untimely death of her mother. But what she goes home to is completely unexpected. She also had some disturbing news about Hendrix right as she was leaving, and she just can't deal with him now. Love on the rocks, danger lurking, family secrets, you name it, this story has it all. And I could not get enough. It's unpredictable and exciting! A book that will keep the intrigue high and the romance building is just what I love to listen to. Plus there are secondary characters that are fantastic! Ada Lynn is my favorite, protective, loving and will do anything for Gemma. And Mac is the best friend ever. Loved this installment and though still in shock as to some of the revelations in this book, it only makes me want to grab book 3 and get listening!
Stephanie Nemeth-Parker continues with a fabulous narration. From the aging Ada-Lynn, to the sensual Hendrix, to Gemma's crazy father to Gemma, we are treated to an array of voices, perfectly suited to the character and brings them alive in your mind. I loved this narration and can't wait for more.
The Love & Ruin Series, Book 2
By: J.A. Owenby
Narrated by: Stephanie Nemeth-Parker
Ok, I admit it. I am totally hooked on this series. This is book 2 and no, I didn't go to sleep until I finished the book! We pick up where book 1 leaves off, and Gemma has gone home after the untimely death of her mother. But what she goes home to is completely unexpected. She also had some disturbing news about Hendrix right as she was leaving, and she just can't deal with him now. Love on the rocks, danger lurking, family secrets, you name it, this story has it all. And I could not get enough. It's unpredictable and exciting! A book that will keep the intrigue high and the romance building is just what I love to listen to. Plus there are secondary characters that are fantastic! Ada Lynn is my favorite, protective, loving and will do anything for Gemma. And Mac is the best friend ever. Loved this installment and though still in shock as to some of the revelations in this book, it only makes me want to grab book 3 and get listening!
Stephanie Nemeth-Parker continues with a fabulous narration. From the aging Ada-Lynn, to the sensual Hendrix, to Gemma's crazy father to Gemma, we are treated to an array of voices, perfectly suited to the character and brings them alive in your mind. I loved this narration and can't wait for more.
October 29, 2021
Love & Deception is book two in the Love & Ruin Series and picks up where book one leaves off, which was on a major cliffhanger, so if you have not read book one, you have to or you will be lost.
This book brings so much more drama than book one, and so much more darkness, and some serious jaw-dropping moments. This book also contains sensitive topics and I found it to be an emotional listen at times.
Gemma finds herself back in Louisiana following receiving some devestating news, which also prompts a separation from Hendrix. While both Hendrix and Mac do what they can to help Gemma and show their support, as more secrets and information comes out, Gemma feels like she has to deal with everything herself in order to protect those she cares about and in turn begins to push people away.
I continued to love Ada Lynn and her love and fierce protectivenss for Gemma. Their relationship was definitely one of the things that stood out most while listening to the story. This book didn't end on a cliffhanger per se but Gemma and Hendrix's story isn't quite finished, so I am excited to check out book three to see how everything plays out and to find out the conclusion to this very dramatic story.
Stephanie Nemeth-Parker did a good job with the narration of this story, particularly given the very sensitive themes and emotional story line. #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlock
This book brings so much more drama than book one, and so much more darkness, and some serious jaw-dropping moments. This book also contains sensitive topics and I found it to be an emotional listen at times.
Gemma finds herself back in Louisiana following receiving some devestating news, which also prompts a separation from Hendrix. While both Hendrix and Mac do what they can to help Gemma and show their support, as more secrets and information comes out, Gemma feels like she has to deal with everything herself in order to protect those she cares about and in turn begins to push people away.
I continued to love Ada Lynn and her love and fierce protectivenss for Gemma. Their relationship was definitely one of the things that stood out most while listening to the story. This book didn't end on a cliffhanger per se but Gemma and Hendrix's story isn't quite finished, so I am excited to check out book three to see how everything plays out and to find out the conclusion to this very dramatic story.
Stephanie Nemeth-Parker did a good job with the narration of this story, particularly given the very sensitive themes and emotional story line. #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlock
October 23, 2021
Gemma's life is in emotional turmoil since returning home after her mother passed away.
She loves Hendrix. and deep down she doesn't believe the lies Andrea told her.
Gemma wants him , but doesn't want to hold Hendrix back from his promising future with the band.
Adelynne has always looked out for her blue eyed girl. Now it's her time to take care of her. She is the one and only constant in her life.
Shocking truths come out that changes Gemma's life forever!
Gemma has self doubts, but is coming into her own. She has strengths, weaknesses and truths
Brutal truths are revealed surrounding the death of her mother.
The one person who is supposed to be her protector becomes her violent attacker.
This angsty, emotional, dark, steamy saga of Gemma and Hendrix by J. A. owenby has me wanting more.
Stephanie Nemeth-Parker narration is perfection. She is a great voice performer, depicting all the emotions, accents and giving each character their own personality and brings the story to life.
🎧🎧audiobookObsession🎧🎧 #TheFlock
She loves Hendrix. and deep down she doesn't believe the lies Andrea told her.
Gemma wants him , but doesn't want to hold Hendrix back from his promising future with the band.
Adelynne has always looked out for her blue eyed girl. Now it's her time to take care of her. She is the one and only constant in her life.
Shocking truths come out that changes Gemma's life forever!
Gemma has self doubts, but is coming into her own. She has strengths, weaknesses and truths
Brutal truths are revealed surrounding the death of her mother.
The one person who is supposed to be her protector becomes her violent attacker.
This angsty, emotional, dark, steamy saga of Gemma and Hendrix by J. A. owenby has me wanting more.
Stephanie Nemeth-Parker narration is perfection. She is a great voice performer, depicting all the emotions, accents and giving each character their own personality and brings the story to life.
🎧🎧audiobookObsession🎧🎧 #TheFlock
January 17, 2019
Holy roller coaster ride! You better fasten that seatbelt and get ready for the continuation of a compelling story that takes you through Gemma’s ups, downs, hold on tight love interest, quick turns, and jaw dropping over the edge white knuckle plummets! I couldn’t put this book down—it was that intriguing. JA Owenby out did herself with this new trilogy The Love & Ruin Series.
I loved book one, but book two was even better. The author took me by surprise so many times that I couldn’t stop reading—I just had to see what happened next. I have a love / hate relationship with cliffhanger endings but JA Owenby never lets me down. She kept me guessing and I enjoyed the story and characters even more. The best part is you won’t have to wait in line like at the amusement park, you can grab book two of this fabulous love story and enjoy the love, sex, twists, turns, and upside down thrills right now.
I loved book one, but book two was even better. The author took me by surprise so many times that I couldn’t stop reading—I just had to see what happened next. I have a love / hate relationship with cliffhanger endings but JA Owenby never lets me down. She kept me guessing and I enjoyed the story and characters even more. The best part is you won’t have to wait in line like at the amusement park, you can grab book two of this fabulous love story and enjoy the love, sex, twists, turns, and upside down thrills right now.
August 10, 2020
This series rips you apart. This was another fantastic book by JA Owenby. Hendrix and Gemma were pulled apart in the last book and Gemma hit another low point in her life. Thrust back to Louisiana, she loses more than she expected. It takes time but even in the pits of depression, she realizes the darkness that not only surrounds her now but has for years. She’s in danger and she may not make it out of this one. Hendrix won’t give up on her, no matter how hard she pushes him away. When the time comes, it will be up to him to save her.
It’s dark and gritty and filled with angst. You ride the highs and lows with them both. I wanted to shake Gemma so many times. Wake up girl! He is what you need!! It was a bumpy ride for sure. Can’t wait to open the pages of the next one.
It’s dark and gritty and filled with angst. You ride the highs and lows with them both. I wanted to shake Gemma so many times. Wake up girl! He is what you need!! It was a bumpy ride for sure. Can’t wait to open the pages of the next one.
September 22, 2021
This book picks up where Love and Ruin left off. Gemma is back at home in Louisiana after a family tragedy. While dealing with the aftermath of the tragedy, Gemma is also dealing with the accusations against Hendrix, back in Spokane. Her whole world is turned upside down when she finds out there was more to her attack and who was behind it, that she wasn't the only one, and that danger is closer to home than she realized.
In this book, you'll be full of angst with not knowing what's going to happen next. You'll cry with Gemma for the betrayal of those she loved most and the other victims. You'll be on the edge of your seat wanting to know more! But mostly, you'll fall in love with Gemma and Hendrix all over again.
In this book, you'll be full of angst with not knowing what's going to happen next. You'll cry with Gemma for the betrayal of those she loved most and the other victims. You'll be on the edge of your seat wanting to know more! But mostly, you'll fall in love with Gemma and Hendrix all over again.
September 30, 2022
I listened to this on Audible. Like the narration alot. This author is new to me and amazing. I liked the 1st book and this 2nd one was just as good. The intensity of the story line is wonderful and the descriptive way this story unfolds puts u right with the characters in the moment. Gemma is an angel of a character and Henricks is such a swoonie man. All the trials and ups and downs it was so nice to see some good come out. Mac shes such a fun character and lets not forget ms. A shes such a life saver fir Gemma. This was heartbraking her mom passing and finding put the truth from her past. people just read this series it speaks for its self. simply wonderful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2018
Can love really pull you through the worst of times? Is there a bond that strong that can’t be broken? Would you be willing to let that go just to protect them? This story between Gemma and Hendrix is one of those loves stories that defies the odds. They go through the most unimaginable of circumstances, ones that would break a persons will to go on. Yet, they find a way to each other and hold each other up.
August 16, 2020
Tears, pain and love
Gemma has been through the ringer again and again but keep on moving forward. With all that she’s been through, unfortunately it’s about to take another turn and get even harder. Hendrix is still there for her in his own way and makes sure she knows it. Mac has finally found someone that is worthy of her and helps her too. I’m so looking forward to seeing what happens next!
Gemma has been through the ringer again and again but keep on moving forward. With all that she’s been through, unfortunately it’s about to take another turn and get even harder. Hendrix is still there for her in his own way and makes sure she knows it. Mac has finally found someone that is worthy of her and helps her too. I’m so looking forward to seeing what happens next!
October 11, 2021
This book kind of fell off for me, the first book was pretty good, then this one started to get a little more far fetched than I would've liked. The first book seemed to be going in one direction and then this one went way out in left field and I had a hard time with the transition. I hated the turmoil and drama, I hated the heartache and how much Gemma pushed Hendrix away but I love Mac for coming and being there for Gemma when she desperately needed her.
July 22, 2023
This story picks up where book one ends. Hendrix is truly madly in Love with Gemma., he just has to prove to her he is who he is, a man of his word and trustworthy. Gemma has been closed off for so long that she doesn't trust easy and with the loss of her Mom and the lies she uncovers and also the ugly things said about Hendrix she just doesn't know anymore. This is a relationship that goes through the wringer Abe hopefully comes out on the other side whole. On to Book 3.
March 11, 2025
don’t come back… if you love me don’t come back
If I thought book one wrecked my emotions book two destroyed my soul. It’s hard for me to say that I love a book that is so emotionally draining. This book is full of heartache. It’s full of lies, betrayal, heartbreak, and even things that are too evil to speak about but in all of that, there is a story so full of love Hope and redemption that even the sad and scary parts are a little easier to digest
If I thought book one wrecked my emotions book two destroyed my soul. It’s hard for me to say that I love a book that is so emotionally draining. This book is full of heartache. It’s full of lies, betrayal, heartbreak, and even things that are too evil to speak about but in all of that, there is a story so full of love Hope and redemption that even the sad and scary parts are a little easier to digest
October 24, 2018
One of the most captivating books I've read ever! Everytime I thought I could predict what would happen next...Bam!....the plot went to the next level, and I could NOT put the book down. It was first love, suspense, heart wrenching, and my addiction for a couple days. A girl needs a minute to recover after this book!
December 4, 2018
One of the most captivating books I've read ever! Every time I thought I could predict what would happen next.....Bam!... the plot went to the next level, and i could NOT put the book down. It was first love, suspense, heart wrenching, and my addiction for a couple days. A girls needs a minute to recover after this book!
August 23, 2019
Absolutely amazing story! I will admit Gemma annoyed the F out of me for a while with her immediate judgement of Hendrix. But then the story just kept piling up with more and more F-ed up shit I didn't know what to think.
What I did know was Hendrix was steady, genuine, and strong. He is the epitome of what a good man should be.
I cannot wait to wrap up this story next book!
What I did know was Hendrix was steady, genuine, and strong. He is the epitome of what a good man should be.
I cannot wait to wrap up this story next book!
April 8, 2020
A delicious read that kept me up late turning the pages. Filled with the twists and turns that J.A. Owenby is known for this book kept me intrigued and eager to read the next chapter. This second book in the Love and Ruin series has further created an incredible foundation of character development that has left me needing to know how it all ends. On to book three for me.
August 24, 2020
This book was amazing, I won't lie there were a few times I wanted to reach in and slap Jemma, but I understood her wanting to distance her self from Hendrix and Mac, trying to keep them safe. I love Hendrix, I would love a b/f like him. I also love that he and Mac never gave up in Jemma.
The ending of this book was just sic, and sick. What a twist.
The ending of this book was just sic, and sick. What a twist.
October 20, 2021
Audio Book Review
5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wow! This is the second book in the Love & Ruin series. This book picks right up where book 1 left your jaw flapping in the wind. OH MY GOSH! This is a crazy emotional ride. Will Gemma and Hendrix ever get to be together? Can't wait for the next book! Stephanie Nemeth-Parker did amazing again.
5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wow! This is the second book in the Love & Ruin series. This book picks right up where book 1 left your jaw flapping in the wind. OH MY GOSH! This is a crazy emotional ride. Will Gemma and Hendrix ever get to be together? Can't wait for the next book! Stephanie Nemeth-Parker did amazing again.
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