A review by bunnym00n
Better Run by Alina May

4.0

ARC review

Before diving into this book, I want to emphasize the importance of reading the author's warning at the beginning. It's crucial to note that this book is not a romantic one and delves into dark themes, including the female main character suffering from Stockholm Syndrome towards the end.

Mary's story revolves around her abduction by two twisted individuals who become increasingly obsessed with her. They subject her to punishment whenever she breaks their rules. While Mary experiences sexual attraction, it's important to understand that this is not something she can control. What I appreciated about her character was her determination to fight back and escape, despite the fact that these actions only seemed to fuel her captors' desires. Her resilience in seeking freedom was commendable.

Both Jayden and Cole, the captors, have deeply troubled pasts, but it's crucial to acknowledge that this does not excuse their actions. Cole, in particular, often displayed more positive traits, but he was still disturbed in his own right. It's essential to understand that this book is not a romance, as Jayden explicitly states that he is incapable of love.

Despite the dark themes explored, I found this book to be a well-written thriller that kept me engaged. The author's skillful storytelling compelled me to continue reading, even as the plot delved into unsettling territory.