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These Monstrous Deeds #3
One Last Time
Travis and Carter have survived the operation, saving thousands of lives and themselves. But what happens now? Do they go their separate ways? Do they try to rebuild a love they once had, reshaping it to fit the men they have become?
One last time.
It becomes a motto.
An excuse.
A lie they cling to.
They’ll just give into their need for each other one last time, then they’ll let go. Then they’ll move on.
One last time.
It's almost laughable to think they’ll be able to stick with the promise.
It's almost terrifying that there's a chance they might.
*** This is book 3 in a 3 book series. This series needs to be read in order and ends in a HAPPY ENDING if you’re willing to stick around! ***
One last time.
It becomes a motto.
An excuse.
A lie they cling to.
They’ll just give into their need for each other one last time, then they’ll let go. Then they’ll move on.
One last time.
It's almost laughable to think they’ll be able to stick with the promise.
It's almost terrifying that there's a chance they might.
*** This is book 3 in a 3 book series. This series needs to be read in order and ends in a HAPPY ENDING if you’re willing to stick around! ***
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 27, 2023
77 people are currently reading
457 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
February 6, 2023
"And then what?"
"And then maybe... we'll find our way back to each other. Maybe you'll choose me. Because that's what I want, Carter. I want to be your choice. I want you to look at me one day and decide that out of all your options, it's me."
with regard to this trilogy, imma say this: books 2 & 3 were good but book 1 made my soul ascend. just emotional at the moment to finally read about these two having their happy ending after everything they went through. really liked how travis was so patient and loving to carter. loved how this final book was this roller coaster of emotions for me. i was happy and then sad then giggling etc etc. looking forward to the spinoffs!
tbr bc i need direction and self-control:
➵ expert by alessandra hazard - 3 stars
➵ take me apart by brea alepou - 5 stars
➵ one last time by t.j. hamel - 4 stars
➵ fifteen minutes of fame by jennifer luxe - ??
➵ turn me on by lauren blakely - ??
May 8, 2025
4.5**** stars
It is astounding how this series went from a man spending almost a decade undercover as a big player in human trafficking, doing his monstrous deeds to bring this whole hell hole down and a young college student kidnapped into sex slavery, enduring horrible things and being owned by said man, to them almost awkwardly trying to find their way back into the real world, not able to letting the other go and finding people to help them make their new dynamic as equals but also Dom and sub work.
This one is just so funny but also heartwarming when you’ve seen them before it was all over.
This was the aftermath. A lot of healing, a lot of finding themselves, a lot of not getting it right right away and then trying even harder.
⇢ Please heed Trigger Warnings
*************
These Monstrous Deeds Series
Book 1 - These Monstrous Deeds - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - A Dangerous Game - 4.25 stars
Book 3 - One Last Time - 4.5 stars
⇢ Sequel Series: Monstrous Survivors
You kept him, didn’t you?
It is astounding how this series went from a man spending almost a decade undercover as a big player in human trafficking, doing his monstrous deeds to bring this whole hell hole down and a young college student kidnapped into sex slavery, enduring horrible things and being owned by said man, to them almost awkwardly trying to find their way back into the real world, not able to letting the other go and finding people to help them make their new dynamic as equals but also Dom and sub work.
“So. Um. Hi.”
“Hey.” Travis runs a hand through his hair, looking more unsure than Carter has ever seen him.
“Hello.”
“Hello.” Travis chuckles. “Is it time to stop greeting each other now?”
“Probably.” Carter’s eyes dart over Travis’s shoulder, taking in the man’s bedroom.
“We could move on to the next phase, maybe?”
“Right. Next phase. Which is… you coming in?”
“That seems to be logical.”
“Great. Okay.” Travis turns to the side, gesturing toward his bed. It looks dangerously inviting. “Come in, then.”
This one is just so funny but also heartwarming when you’ve seen them before it was all over.
“I want to be yours tonight. All yours. Like-like I used to be.”
This was the aftermath. A lot of healing, a lot of finding themselves, a lot of not getting it right right away and then trying even harder.
“Trav?”
“Yeah?”
“We’re learning together, okay? Don’t be too hard on yourself.”
⇢ Please heed Trigger Warnings
*************
These Monstrous Deeds Series
Book 1 - These Monstrous Deeds - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - A Dangerous Game - 4.25 stars
Book 3 - One Last Time - 4.5 stars
⇢ Sequel Series: Monstrous Survivors
July 30, 2024
Still wish this series was 1st person POV not 3rd 😂 I want to cry damn it!!!
I really liked the way this book focused on Carter and Travis repairing their relationship with each other, but also repairing themselves too (to an extent anyway!). I'm glad there was such a focus on trauma and therapy, and the emphasis on the need for good communication to have a healthy relationship was good to see. Their struggles felt believable and I'm glad they didn't just carry on as they were and instead learnt how to be together in a healthy, respectful way.
I do feel a little like Carter and Maison's brotherly relationship is still unresolved - understandably too, because I don't think I could forgive my sibling for putting me in that position - but maybe that resolves in Maison's book? Which I was super happy to hear about actually because I wasn't ready to say goodbye to any of these characters! I want to see everyone healing and moving on with their lives after this massive trauma they've all lived through.
The way Carter is building his independence and figuring out what it is that he wants now that he's free was really enjoyable, and seeing Travis learn how to be better for Carter and their relationship, as well as embracing what he want's for his own life was what finally won me over fully for their relationship. Yes it's unconventional and most would probably say it's way too unhealthy, but it really did feel like they fit together well and they really put in the work to make their relationship better and to both be equals in it.
Although I'm kinda sad to say goodbye to Carter and Travis, I am excited to read Jake and Casey's story, as well as Maison, Nolan and Hunter's, and I really hope the other rescued slaves have books to come soon because I'm too invested in Nolan, Matt and Bryce now and I need to see what happens to them next.
I really liked the way this book focused on Carter and Travis repairing their relationship with each other, but also repairing themselves too (to an extent anyway!). I'm glad there was such a focus on trauma and therapy, and the emphasis on the need for good communication to have a healthy relationship was good to see. Their struggles felt believable and I'm glad they didn't just carry on as they were and instead learnt how to be together in a healthy, respectful way.
I do feel a little like Carter and Maison's brotherly relationship is still unresolved - understandably too, because I don't think I could forgive my sibling for putting me in that position - but maybe that resolves in Maison's book? Which I was super happy to hear about actually because I wasn't ready to say goodbye to any of these characters! I want to see everyone healing and moving on with their lives after this massive trauma they've all lived through.
The way Carter is building his independence and figuring out what it is that he wants now that he's free was really enjoyable, and seeing Travis learn how to be better for Carter and their relationship, as well as embracing what he want's for his own life was what finally won me over fully for their relationship. Yes it's unconventional and most would probably say it's way too unhealthy, but it really did feel like they fit together well and they really put in the work to make their relationship better and to both be equals in it.
Although I'm kinda sad to say goodbye to Carter and Travis, I am excited to read Jake and Casey's story, as well as Maison, Nolan and Hunter's, and I really hope the other rescued slaves have books to come soon because I'm too invested in Nolan, Matt and Bryce now and I need to see what happens to them next.
May 15, 2024
This was a really cute ending to an otherwise pretty traumatic series! I loved the dynamics of healing and them finally getting to be together but I did get kinda bored and started skimming the sex scenes especially bc half the book is just like bdsm which is not my cup of tea. This one was also lower stakes than the others so I was kinda missing the action of it all, but I’m glad they got their HEA bc they were really cute. Not sure if I’ll read anything else by this author any time soon, but this is a series worth checking out if you can handle the triggers!
March 3, 2023
I have to admit to being disappointed at this finale. I couldn't reconcile Carter going from kidnapping to horrendous slavery, to being a submissive and becoming part of a BDSM friendship group. The book seemed to have a leg in 2 different genre camps. I was hoping to have more of the Elliot story and feel somewhat ripped off that it was almost a background story when in fact it was so very important to Carter. That Carter and Travis got their HEA was no surprise, but I would like to have seen more of the end of the slavery and less about the BDSM - save that for another series.
October 8, 2024
“We won,” Carter whispers to himself, a smile breaking loose on his lips. He kisses the caged bird and settles back to finally fall asleep. We won.
March 18, 2025
I don't always post series reviews, but I absolutely HAD to for Monstrous Deeds. Y'all, these books took over my LIFE - as soon as I started the first one, I just knew I was going to be binging. The story is just so hard to put down. The circumstances the MMCs go through are objectively horrific - I mean, it's about human trafficking, it's DARK. The author doesn't shy away from putting all kinds of atrocities on page, and I'll reiterate again that you REALLY need to check TWs before starting. The first few chapters with Carter in captivity are DEVASTATING and every single page broke my heart. However, once Nathan/Travis comes into his life, there is hope. At first it's just small moments of kindness between them - Travis allowing Carter to keep his stuff moose was an early example that got to me IMMEDIATELY. Then Travis decides to "pretend" to fall for Carter as a way to make things easier for him, but he ends up falling for him for real. In some ways, things get both easier and harder for Carter and Travis once the truth about what's going on is revealed. Carter loses all of the trust he'd had in Travis, but he also knows that there's an end point to his suffering. Travis no longer has to feel quite as guilty for keeping something from Carter, but he loses the relationship that he'd never thought he'd be able to have. The second half of the series is about these guys really trying to figure things out, because despite all they've been through and the awful situation that brought them together, they fit together so well. And while Carter's suppressed psychological trauma and Travis's self deprecation definitely make having a relationship incredible difficult, watching them learn to love each other once they are finally safe is so beautiful and such a relief.
Am I in my dark romance era now? I don't know - I doubt I can read anything THIS heavy all that often. Carter and Travis go through the wringer, and honestly, so did my heart. THAT SAID, I don't binge entire series like this all that often - I was SO caught up in the story, the writing, and the characters that I NEEDED to get to their HEA (which was SO freaking perfect). If you read this series, go in knowing that it will be painful and you might finish it staring at a wall, but all of the pain is SO worth it.
Am I in my dark romance era now? I don't know - I doubt I can read anything THIS heavy all that often. Carter and Travis go through the wringer, and honestly, so did my heart. THAT SAID, I don't binge entire series like this all that often - I was SO caught up in the story, the writing, and the characters that I NEEDED to get to their HEA (which was SO freaking perfect). If you read this series, go in knowing that it will be painful and you might finish it staring at a wall, but all of the pain is SO worth it.
July 2, 2024
I devoured this series over four days!
These Monstrous Deeds = 4.5 stars
A Dangerous Game = 5 stars
One Last Time = 4 stars
Overall rating for series = 4.5 stars.
I became so invested in the characters, not just the MCs, Travis/Nathan, and Carter, that I needed to read this to the end!
I will most definitely be reading the other survivor books in the near future.
This series has trademark McNiff/ Hamel themes of sweet & sassy boys with their big strong protectors, control/submission, Doms and Subs, BDSM, consent etc, as well as the overarching themes of the experiences of victim/ survivors of human trafficking, police and private organisations aiming to bring it all down.
This series was dark in its graphic and unapologetic depiction of this world without it being reduced to torture porn.
One Last Time focuses on the aftermath of a major bust of HT sites, and Travis and Carter trying to navigate the change in their dynamic from Master/slave & Sir/sweetheart in the outside world.
This book features a lot of the characters to be in later books, so there was time spent in this book effectively setting that up which was well done.
Just a slight criticism, perhaps the story lacked some depth and realism regarding the MCs PTSD symptoms, focusing more on the "romance" element. Also, the decision for the MCs to move into a D/s, BDSM arrangement so quickly was a "choice" (which maybe needed a bit more explanation 🤔) but hey, it was still an excellent read and I loved it! Sad to say goodbye to these two boys 🥰
These Monstrous Deeds = 4.5 stars
A Dangerous Game = 5 stars
One Last Time = 4 stars
Overall rating for series = 4.5 stars.
I became so invested in the characters, not just the MCs, Travis/Nathan, and Carter, that I needed to read this to the end!
I will most definitely be reading the other survivor books in the near future.
This series has trademark McNiff/ Hamel themes of sweet & sassy boys with their big strong protectors, control/submission, Doms and Subs, BDSM, consent etc, as well as the overarching themes of the experiences of victim/ survivors of human trafficking, police and private organisations aiming to bring it all down.
This series was dark in its graphic and unapologetic depiction of this world without it being reduced to torture porn.
One Last Time focuses on the aftermath of a major bust of HT sites, and Travis and Carter trying to navigate the change in their dynamic from Master/slave & Sir/sweetheart in the outside world.
This book features a lot of the characters to be in later books, so there was time spent in this book effectively setting that up which was well done.
Just a slight criticism, perhaps the story lacked some depth and realism regarding the MCs PTSD symptoms, focusing more on the "romance" element. Also, the decision for the MCs to move into a D/s, BDSM arrangement so quickly was a "choice" (which maybe needed a bit more explanation 🤔) but hey, it was still an excellent read and I loved it! Sad to say goodbye to these two boys 🥰
July 9, 2023
Finding your true self after traumatic events, coming back to the “you” that you once were. Both of our guys are soul searching and finding out if they still like who they are, finding places to improve and discovering ways to be brave and move forward.
Travis makes the noble decision to give Carter time and set him free. My heart hurt for both of these guys that are just not sure if what they want from each other is a healthy situation. There is a cooling off period and I got even more heartsore as Carter REALLY dives into finding his likes and dislikes with his new post-trauma self. I mean REALLY gets into it and shares himself in ways that I thought would remain special to just Travis.
Is this whole series over the top? Sure, but it’s fiction, so it’s allowed to be OTT in order to entertain us. What this book does so well, is take you through a full range of emotions, every single one. We go low, high, sweet, tender, sad, mad, disgusted, disappointed, hopeful, hopeless, heartsore, sexy, grossed out.
Tropes are mob boss, finally got our HEA, hurt/comfort, m/m, undercover operation, trauma and recovery.
Travis makes the noble decision to give Carter time and set him free. My heart hurt for both of these guys that are just not sure if what they want from each other is a healthy situation. There is a cooling off period and I got even more heartsore as Carter REALLY dives into finding his likes and dislikes with his new post-trauma self. I mean REALLY gets into it and shares himself in ways that I thought would remain special to just Travis.
Is this whole series over the top? Sure, but it’s fiction, so it’s allowed to be OTT in order to entertain us. What this book does so well, is take you through a full range of emotions, every single one. We go low, high, sweet, tender, sad, mad, disgusted, disappointed, hopeful, hopeless, heartsore, sexy, grossed out.
Tropes are mob boss, finally got our HEA, hurt/comfort, m/m, undercover operation, trauma and recovery.
May 14, 2024
Myślę, że oczekiwałam czegoś innego niż dostałam. Bardzo dużo brutalności, seksu, wymuszeń w pierwszej części zdecydowanie mnie przerosło, nie byłam na to gotowa. Drugi tom wcale nie był pod tym względem lepszy, jednak Carter znał już prawdę, wiec jakoś łatwiej mi było czytać. Scena z nowym niewolnikiem sprawiła, że miałam ochotę rzucić tą lekturą i nie wracać. Trzecia część podobała mi się najbardziej. wszystko odbywało się za obopólną zgodą, byli wolni i leczyli się z traumy, ucząc się razem żyć.
3,75 za całość, bo uff, czasami naprawdę ciężko mi się to czytało.
3,75 za całość, bo uff, czasami naprawdę ciężko mi się to czytało.
July 29, 2024
The End
𝘿𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮. 𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙨𝙤 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮.
I really liked the first half of this book. The struggle of both Travis and Carter to survive and thrive in the aftermath of the completed operation.
The authors attempt at authenticity to human emotion in this situation is what really sells me on these stories. If I’m going to read something this raw I want to experience all of it. And we do run the gamut of emotions through all three books.
I felt like the second half was great for us as the reader to experience but it went on too long. I unfortunately started to get bored. Their segway into D/s wasn’t unbelievable to me, I was actually expecting that. I just didn’t need to experience all of it I guess.
I am anxious to move to the spinoff series, particularly Casey’s story.
𝘿𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮. 𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙞𝙩'𝙨 𝙨𝙤 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮.
I really liked the first half of this book. The struggle of both Travis and Carter to survive and thrive in the aftermath of the completed operation.
The authors attempt at authenticity to human emotion in this situation is what really sells me on these stories. If I’m going to read something this raw I want to experience all of it. And we do run the gamut of emotions through all three books.
I felt like the second half was great for us as the reader to experience but it went on too long. I unfortunately started to get bored. Their segway into D/s wasn’t unbelievable to me, I was actually expecting that. I just didn’t need to experience all of it I guess.
I am anxious to move to the spinoff series, particularly Casey’s story.
April 10, 2023
I saw that going differently, to be honest.
I thought there would be some proper separation between Travis and Carter. Maybe a year or so apart where we see Carter rebuilding his life and working out who he is again as he works through his trauma. But that doesn’t happen.
I couldn’t get past the fact that Carter and Travis never really left their compound life behind. They settled right back into a Dom/sub relationship and it just felt wrong to me.
There were multiple times when it was acknowledged that the other survivors weren’t in the right headspace to begin relationships with the men they’d grown attached to, but we were supposed to believe it was fine for Carter? I don’t know, if just didn’t sit right with me and so I felt iffy about the whole Carter and Travis relationship.
I also couldn’t get past Travis walking around a safe house full of human trafficking survivors who had literally been kidnapped, forced into slavery, and abused by him. Surely the author didn’t believe we’d think his victims would just forgive him and forget because he was undercover? I mean, they had to share a dinner table with him for Christ’s sake - that just seemed so, so, so wrong in my eyes.
The ending was quite rushed - given how much many pages and chapters in the previous books were dedicated to specific scenes, I really thought more chapters would have been given to the search for Elliot and to hunting down the rest of the men who were looking for Carter. Perhaps that will be explored more in the next books?
Aside from those grievances though, I enjoyed the series as a whole. It was hard to read for the most part considering the content, and I can freely admit I cried multiple times, but personally I thought it was well done. It’s a series I don’t think I’ll forget any time soon. I’m looking forward to the rest of the books in the series - I can’t wait to find out what happens with Casey/Jake and Maison/Hunter/Nolan. They deserve their happy endings too.
I thought there would be some proper separation between Travis and Carter. Maybe a year or so apart where we see Carter rebuilding his life and working out who he is again as he works through his trauma. But that doesn’t happen.
I couldn’t get past the fact that Carter and Travis never really left their compound life behind. They settled right back into a Dom/sub relationship and it just felt wrong to me.
There were multiple times when it was acknowledged that the other survivors weren’t in the right headspace to begin relationships with the men they’d grown attached to, but we were supposed to believe it was fine for Carter? I don’t know, if just didn’t sit right with me and so I felt iffy about the whole Carter and Travis relationship.
I also couldn’t get past Travis walking around a safe house full of human trafficking survivors who had literally been kidnapped, forced into slavery, and abused by him. Surely the author didn’t believe we’d think his victims would just forgive him and forget because he was undercover? I mean, they had to share a dinner table with him for Christ’s sake - that just seemed so, so, so wrong in my eyes.
The ending was quite rushed - given how much many pages and chapters in the previous books were dedicated to specific scenes, I really thought more chapters would have been given to the search for Elliot and to hunting down the rest of the men who were looking for Carter. Perhaps that will be explored more in the next books?
Aside from those grievances though, I enjoyed the series as a whole. It was hard to read for the most part considering the content, and I can freely admit I cried multiple times, but personally I thought it was well done. It’s a series I don’t think I’ll forget any time soon. I’m looking forward to the rest of the books in the series - I can’t wait to find out what happens with Casey/Jake and Maison/Hunter/Nolan. They deserve their happy endings too.
October 4, 2023
"We're all victims."
"No, Carter. You're all survivors. The question is, are you ready to face that?"
This book was very different than the first two, which was to be expected. I think it's really unique that the author started this series with such a dark and heavy and detailed traumatizing experience and is now building a series of spin-offs based on healing and incorporating a BDSM community. I'll admit it was a bit of a shock going from that to this. Weird for me, but somehow working for these characters. I'm not going to judge anyone for how they heal, even fictional characters.
I loved this series so much, definitely one of my all time favorites now. Travis and Carter will always own a piece of my heart. I may have cried a little after reading the last page because it was over, and I've only done that with a handful of books, if even that. But I'm very much looking forward to Casey and Jake's story and will be diving right into it!
"No, Carter. You're all survivors. The question is, are you ready to face that?"
This book was very different than the first two, which was to be expected. I think it's really unique that the author started this series with such a dark and heavy and detailed traumatizing experience and is now building a series of spin-offs based on healing and incorporating a BDSM community. I'll admit it was a bit of a shock going from that to this. Weird for me, but somehow working for these characters. I'm not going to judge anyone for how they heal, even fictional characters.
I loved this series so much, definitely one of my all time favorites now. Travis and Carter will always own a piece of my heart. I may have cried a little after reading the last page because it was over, and I've only done that with a handful of books, if even that. But I'm very much looking forward to Casey and Jake's story and will be diving right into it!
July 24, 2023
This was such an interesting conclusion to Carter and Travis's story. There were so many things I felt were done right even if it hurt.
I thought the way therapy was handled for each man was such a good representation of individual experiences and fears. There is no right or wrong way to manage surviving what they all did. There was guilt, fear, anger, depression, grief - so many emotions.
I also love that it wasn't a fix all - we knew that it was going to take years to find peace for these men.
I'm glad the author decided to keep Carter in the apartment, trying to be independent and dating Nathan to see if his feelings were for Travis as well.
I love that Travis loved and respected Carter so much that when Carter decided to do certain things, he didn't shame or guilt him. He understood Carter needed to experience life to see what was right for him physically and emotionally.
This was a messy and tragically sad trilogy with so much emotion and heart. It won't be for everyone, but for those who do decide to take the leap, the ending gives us so much redemption and hope.
I thought the way therapy was handled for each man was such a good representation of individual experiences and fears. There is no right or wrong way to manage surviving what they all did. There was guilt, fear, anger, depression, grief - so many emotions.
I also love that it wasn't a fix all - we knew that it was going to take years to find peace for these men.
I'm glad the author decided to keep Carter in the apartment, trying to be independent and dating Nathan to see if his feelings were for Travis as well.
I love that Travis loved and respected Carter so much that when Carter decided to do certain things, he didn't shame or guilt him. He understood Carter needed to experience life to see what was right for him physically and emotionally.
This was a messy and tragically sad trilogy with so much emotion and heart. It won't be for everyone, but for those who do decide to take the leap, the ending gives us so much redemption and hope.
March 31, 2024
Rating for all 3 books. I did not sleep between these books because I was so immersed in the story and had to get Carter’s happy ending with Travis. It’s hard to not attached to Carter because you basically live his life from time of capture to his happy ending. It does make things repetitive, but it’s purposeful in really getting into his head and mindset. It was heartbreaking at times to read, but every time a bad guy got his due it was so worth those tears! I can’t wait to see the rest of the guys get their happy endings too!
February 19, 2025
So sad to say that we have finally reached the end with these two. One Last Time.. what a fitting title for the last book in this series. This is my final rating of each book in the series:
1. These Monstrous Deeds (MD #1): 6/5 ⭐️
2. A Dangerous Game (MD #2): 4.75/5 ⭐️
3. One Last Time (MD #3): 5/5 ⭐️
I was a little nervous going into the last book for this series, especially because I didn't love the second book as much as the first. There were definitely things that I wish were done differently, but overall, I think the story concluded perfectly for Carter and Travis. My notes:
- I was so sad when Carter left the safe house.. so I could not be more relieved and excited when Casey said he would go with him. Even though it was short-lived, I loved Casey for pulling through.
- I really liked that Carter explored with other people in the bar (and then with Hunter..), I think that whole plot was necessary for Carter to realize he wanted Travis.
- I will say, I do wish that this book would have emphasized more on Carters healing journey. I think Carters trauma was swept under the rug, and instead the sole focus was on Carter and Travs relationship-- which wasn't the worse thing, since it was important to see how their relationship could survive and grow outside of the mission and its effects on them. Still, I would have appreciated a deeper glimpse into Carters trauma and how he worked to recover.
- They started a dom/sub relationship.. which, I guess we were all expecting, but I think my favorite part about that whole dynamic was the new group of friends they made. Hunter and his gang are kinda funny and interesting, so it was really cool that they were now included in the bigger friend group by the end of the book.
- THE FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN THE SURVIVORS! That. Was. Everything! They were always there when the other needed them which made me beyond happy.
- Travis moving in with Carter.. and then the way he proposed.. Just. Chefs. Kiss!
- The boys buying a big house and all of the operatives and survivors staying together after moving out of the safe house.. yes, please.
I've mentioned this before, but Hamel does an incredible job of developing her side characters. I'm so invested in all the other survivors now, and can't wait to read their individual books! I know this one isn't out yet, but I especially can't wait for Matts story (the big mystery man). I'm going to really miss Carter and Travis, but I'm very happy with the way this whole series was written.. I had more than enough time to go through all the emotions and feels. Looking forward to definitely re-reading in the future! ❤️🩹
1. These Monstrous Deeds (MD #1): 6/5 ⭐️
2. A Dangerous Game (MD #2): 4.75/5 ⭐️
3. One Last Time (MD #3): 5/5 ⭐️
I was a little nervous going into the last book for this series, especially because I didn't love the second book as much as the first. There were definitely things that I wish were done differently, but overall, I think the story concluded perfectly for Carter and Travis. My notes:
- I was so sad when Carter left the safe house.. so I could not be more relieved and excited when Casey said he would go with him. Even though it was short-lived, I loved Casey for pulling through.
- I really liked that Carter explored with other people in the bar (and then with Hunter..), I think that whole plot was necessary for Carter to realize he wanted Travis.
- I will say, I do wish that this book would have emphasized more on Carters healing journey. I think Carters trauma was swept under the rug, and instead the sole focus was on Carter and Travs relationship-- which wasn't the worse thing, since it was important to see how their relationship could survive and grow outside of the mission and its effects on them. Still, I would have appreciated a deeper glimpse into Carters trauma and how he worked to recover.
- They started a dom/sub relationship.. which, I guess we were all expecting, but I think my favorite part about that whole dynamic was the new group of friends they made. Hunter and his gang are kinda funny and interesting, so it was really cool that they were now included in the bigger friend group by the end of the book.
- THE FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN THE SURVIVORS! That. Was. Everything! They were always there when the other needed them which made me beyond happy.
- Travis moving in with Carter.. and then the way he proposed.. Just. Chefs. Kiss!
- The boys buying a big house and all of the operatives and survivors staying together after moving out of the safe house.. yes, please.
I've mentioned this before, but Hamel does an incredible job of developing her side characters. I'm so invested in all the other survivors now, and can't wait to read their individual books! I know this one isn't out yet, but I especially can't wait for Matts story (the big mystery man). I'm going to really miss Carter and Travis, but I'm very happy with the way this whole series was written.. I had more than enough time to go through all the emotions and feels. Looking forward to definitely re-reading in the future! ❤️🩹
August 9, 2023
3.5⭐
As a whole, I would recommend this series. Book one sucked me in hard and I was obsessed. But this installment left me with issues I just couldn't look past.
Like in what world would you have human trafficking / sex slave survivors staying in a safe house with their original "masters" after they've been rescued? Please. I just can't.
I can't wait for the spin off series. Looking forward to see how all the other characters stories play out.
As a whole, I would recommend this series. Book one sucked me in hard and I was obsessed. But this installment left me with issues I just couldn't look past.
Like in what world would you have human trafficking / sex slave survivors staying in a safe house with their original "masters" after they've been rescued? Please. I just can't.
I can't wait for the spin off series. Looking forward to see how all the other characters stories play out.
June 3, 2024
My least favorite book out of the three for Carter and Travis. It started out strong enough with the healing process, but it was once again too long in some places. Too much focus on the sex.
I was surprised this book had the most editing errors out of all of them. Thought that would get better.
I had been debating reading one of the other couple’s stories but now I’m definitely thinking that’s a no.
I was surprised this book had the most editing errors out of all of them. Thought that would get better.
I had been debating reading one of the other couple’s stories but now I’m definitely thinking that’s a no.
May 1, 2025
Are you ok Alix? I hear you ask.
No. No im not. Because how am I supposed to ever get over this? I fear I never will.
And that’s a credit to TJ Hamel. Because this story was EVERYTHING. It was tragic, it was beautiful, it was raw, it was educational, it was gut wrenching, and eye opening and let’s be real…. Hot at times, even though that is FAR from the point of the book.
I’m immediatly picking up the survivors stories!
New Infinity star series right here 🖤
No. No im not. Because how am I supposed to ever get over this? I fear I never will.
And that’s a credit to TJ Hamel. Because this story was EVERYTHING. It was tragic, it was beautiful, it was raw, it was educational, it was gut wrenching, and eye opening and let’s be real…. Hot at times, even though that is FAR from the point of the book.
I’m immediatly picking up the survivors stories!
New Infinity star series right here 🖤
May 21, 2025
One Last time
Monstrous deeds book 3
T.J. Hamel
Travis and Carter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The final book and conclusion to this series.
I am so glad Carter and Travis found their hea.
They still have a ton of healing and therapy to do. I believe the way of life they have chosen now works for them. While unconventional, I think the D/s lifestyle is actually great for them.
I'm looking forward to Jake and Casey's story. My heart breaks for him.
Nolan Maison and Hunter will be interesting too.
This was a great series. Very hard at times. Very well done though.
Their struggles felt realistic. I feel Maison and Carter still have issues to resolve still, hopefully we might see some of that in Maisons book.
“No,” Carter whispers. He turns in Travis’s arms, tilting his head back to be able to look into his eyes. Travis’s face is wide open, full of fear and hope. “No more one last time. Let’s give forever a try instead.”
I hope Travis and Carter truly have a joyful peaceful life now ❤️
Monstrous deeds book 3
T.J. Hamel
Travis and Carter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The final book and conclusion to this series.
I am so glad Carter and Travis found their hea.
They still have a ton of healing and therapy to do. I believe the way of life they have chosen now works for them. While unconventional, I think the D/s lifestyle is actually great for them.
I'm looking forward to Jake and Casey's story. My heart breaks for him.
Nolan Maison and Hunter will be interesting too.
This was a great series. Very hard at times. Very well done though.
Their struggles felt realistic. I feel Maison and Carter still have issues to resolve still, hopefully we might see some of that in Maisons book.
“No,” Carter whispers. He turns in Travis’s arms, tilting his head back to be able to look into his eyes. Travis’s face is wide open, full of fear and hope. “No more one last time. Let’s give forever a try instead.”
I hope Travis and Carter truly have a joyful peaceful life now ❤️
July 17, 2023
4.5⭐️ great ending to an intensely emotional story. I’m so happy Carter and Travis were able to work through their trauma and find their happily ever after. This story will stick with me for a long time.
July 23, 2023
This one will stay with me forever.
I found my one exception to the Dom/ sub kink in this book. It was written so well I was embarrassingly blushing while reading. I also really battled with readers guilt while reading this for so many reasons. I was exhausted.
I found my one exception to the Dom/ sub kink in this book. It was written so well I was embarrassingly blushing while reading. I also really battled with readers guilt while reading this for so many reasons. I was exhausted.
March 10, 2025
BE STILL MY HEART!!?
I have been obsessively ripping through this series, and I am so happy it’s not over! TJ could write 20 more books in this series and I’d read every one!!!
What a beautiful ending to Carter and Travis’s story (seriously, I cried reading the last line). Though Carter is trying to heal and move on with his life, he’s still got work to do, and he has to decide if he wants Travis along for the ride. Travis wants to be with him desperately, but he wants to be Carter’s choice, not another lack of options. Trav is determined for Carter to find his own way. Though he wants to be part of his life, he knows Carter needs this. These men had to work so so hard for their HEA, but they get there in a really emotional and stunning way.
Seriously, this series absolutely knocked me out and I am so incredibly glad I read it! Thank you TJ for bringing us these beautiful boys!!!
I have been obsessively ripping through this series, and I am so happy it’s not over! TJ could write 20 more books in this series and I’d read every one!!!
What a beautiful ending to Carter and Travis’s story (seriously, I cried reading the last line). Though Carter is trying to heal and move on with his life, he’s still got work to do, and he has to decide if he wants Travis along for the ride. Travis wants to be with him desperately, but he wants to be Carter’s choice, not another lack of options. Trav is determined for Carter to find his own way. Though he wants to be part of his life, he knows Carter needs this. These men had to work so so hard for their HEA, but they get there in a really emotional and stunning way.
Seriously, this series absolutely knocked me out and I am so incredibly glad I read it! Thank you TJ for bringing us these beautiful boys!!!
March 9, 2025
:: “𝙋𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧.”
This series was all consuming. A dark, realistic, brutal portrayal of human trafficking & the trauma that lingers when a victim becomes a survivor. While experiencing Carter slowly lose himself to the abuse was a kind of pain I was not prepared for…watching Travis struggle between his responsibilities as Nathan & his soul as the man who loves Carter completely wrecked me. Mark my words this will be a top read of 2025 for me.
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮’𝙧𝙚 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧.”
ʙᴏᴏᴋ 1: 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕤𝕖 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕤𝕥𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝔻𝕖𝕖𝕕𝕤
ʙᴏᴏᴋ 2: 𝔸 𝔻𝕒𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝔾𝕒𝕞𝕖
ʙᴏᴏᴋ 3: 𝕆𝕟𝕖 𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕋𝕚𝕞𝕖
🤍 MM
🩶 Third Person POV
🖤 Captive/Rescuer
🤍 Hidden Identity
🩶 Forced Proximity
🖤 Check TW
This series was all consuming. A dark, realistic, brutal portrayal of human trafficking & the trauma that lingers when a victim becomes a survivor. While experiencing Carter slowly lose himself to the abuse was a kind of pain I was not prepared for…watching Travis struggle between his responsibilities as Nathan & his soul as the man who loves Carter completely wrecked me. Mark my words this will be a top read of 2025 for me.
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮’𝙧𝙚 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧.”
ʙᴏᴏᴋ 1: 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕤𝕖 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕤𝕥𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝔻𝕖𝕖𝕕𝕤
ʙᴏᴏᴋ 2: 𝔸 𝔻𝕒𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝔾𝕒𝕞𝕖
ʙᴏᴏᴋ 3: 𝕆𝕟𝕖 𝕃𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕋𝕚𝕞𝕖
🤍 MM
🩶 Third Person POV
🖤 Captive/Rescuer
🤍 Hidden Identity
🩶 Forced Proximity
🖤 Check TW
July 11, 2024
Not my favorite really. By the end, I only wanted for it to be over 🥴
March 30, 2023
dnf @61%
I dnf a while back (don't even remember when) that's how long ago it was. Or that's how bored of the book I was that I dnf it, deleted it from my library and forgot it existed.
This is a shame. The 1st book was bomb, and the 2nd was great, but this one?? It was all hurt and comfort, but with a lite version of hurt and barely nothing else. I know the book is supposed to focus on the recovery part of the MCs, but it reads more like a self-help book. There is no tension, no pressure from the outside world, just the MCs in their little bubble, and that's it.
Also, what's up with the random bdsm? It's not because it doesn't make sense for Carter to enjoy it (people cope differently), but suddenly it was all about the bdsm and its workings. I was like, "Wait, what book am I reading?". I naively thought that the bdsm would breathe new life into the book, but nope. It sure as hell did not.
I have no idea if the plot moves in a better way after 61%, but by then, it would be a little too late for me.
I dnf a while back (don't even remember when) that's how long ago it was. Or that's how bored of the book I was that I dnf it, deleted it from my library and forgot it existed.
This is a shame. The 1st book was bomb, and the 2nd was great, but this one?? It was all hurt and comfort, but with a lite version of hurt and barely nothing else. I know the book is supposed to focus on the recovery part of the MCs, but it reads more like a self-help book. There is no tension, no pressure from the outside world, just the MCs in their little bubble, and that's it.
Also, what's up with the random bdsm? It's not because it doesn't make sense for Carter to enjoy it (people cope differently), but suddenly it was all about the bdsm and its workings. I was like, "Wait, what book am I reading?". I naively thought that the bdsm would breathe new life into the book, but nope. It sure as hell did not.
I have no idea if the plot moves in a better way after 61%, but by then, it would be a little too late for me.
April 16, 2024
4 Stars
I ended up loving this series! It was very dark at times (heavy TW) but Travis and Carter were perfect together. I've already started re-reading the series as I don't want to put it down, and will absolutely be picking up the future books about side characters. Jake, Casey, Maison, Hunter - I cannot wait!
I ended up loving this series! It was very dark at times (heavy TW) but Travis and Carter were perfect together. I've already started re-reading the series as I don't want to put it down, and will absolutely be picking up the future books about side characters. Jake, Casey, Maison, Hunter - I cannot wait!
July 17, 2025
I'm honestly shocked by the number of good reviews that this book and the rest of the trilogy have received. I went into this series blind, choosing it based almost solely on the overall rating and the fact that the kink level was high. I'm a sucker for an extremely dark read that requires trigger warnings when they're done right -- this one was not.
My review is going to be for the trilogy as a whole, so tread carefully if you don't want spoilers.
1. The writing is terrible, with a painful third person POV that forces you to reread the same character's name over and over and over back to back. Thankfully, the author discovered pronouns a bit later into the story, but it was still a struggle to read.
2. There's SO much repetition that you could probably squeeze all three books into one decent sized novella if it were all taken out.
3. Did anyone proofread this before it was published? Far too frequently, I found myself stuck focusing on a typo, incorrect wording, a sentence that didn't make sense, and even back to back repeated sentences. It got especially worse in the third book, where it felt like even the author was getting tired of it and just wanted to meet some word or page quota. If I'd had a physical copy of these books, I would have marked them up with red pen & found a way to ship them back to the author.
4. A book can either be unbelievable and well-written or believable and poorly written. This story was neither. I get that this is fiction, but at least make the story believable so the audience can be convinced by it, especially if you have to rely on the story to compensate for bad writing.
4a. So you're telling me that the MCs are gay -- okay, cool. But then so is practically everyone else that they come into contact with (with the exception of a couple women and a girl briefly mentioned)? Are they in a universe where gay men are the majority or something?
4b. In addition to practically everyone being a gay man, the world is apparently overrun by a human trafficking ring that deals primarily (or solely, it's not fully clear) in gay males? Surprise -- all the victims are also conveniently gay.
4c. (Book 3) The safe house annoys the ever-loving shit out of me --
4d. The whole operation is run by some unnamed agency that may or may not be the CIA, but it is and isn't a government related agency, and it can operate in and out of the United States.
.........okay. Sure, Jan.
4e. (Book 2)
4f. Love at first sight type bullshit in a story that simply is not fit for it. Sure, it can play out sometimes, but not in a situation where one MC is a human trafficker and the other is his victim.
5. Outside of the human trafficking aspect, there's an extra grossness to the Nathan & Carter relationship. The story reads like Carter is underage. Thankfully, however, it is made clear that he is 18+. But I still can't escape the gross feeling because there are constant references to Carter using terms that make him seem far younger than he is. The author makes it clear that there's quite a large gap in stature, and maturity level between the two of them, despite there only being a less than 10 ??) year age difference. (I'm not redownloading & going back to find the exact number.) It doesn't help that Maison only refers to Carter as "baby brother" instead of something like "little bro" that would be more commonly heard. Overall, there's a lot of infantilization when it comes to Carter. Gross.
I wanted to DNF these so bad, especially once I got to the third book. The entire thing was kind of like watching a train wreck in slow motion & you just can't look away. I only kept going after the first book because I wanted to see what kind of ridiculous mission completion the author wrote. Then I kept going through the third book because I was curious what the HEA would look like.
Like I mentioned earlier, the last book felt like even the author was ready to be done and just needed to meet a word or page quota before they could call it quits. It's simultaneously rushed and drawn out -- basically, there's almost nothing of substance in it. You get to see the HEA, but that's only after you sit through the MCs whining and going back and forth about not being able to communicate like adults. Honestly, you can probably skip the third book entirely and I'll give you the gist of the HEA --
My review is going to be for the trilogy as a whole, so tread carefully if you don't want spoilers.
1. The writing is terrible, with a painful third person POV that forces you to reread the same character's name over and over and over back to back. Thankfully, the author discovered pronouns a bit later into the story, but it was still a struggle to read.
2. There's SO much repetition that you could probably squeeze all three books into one decent sized novella if it were all taken out.
3. Did anyone proofread this before it was published? Far too frequently, I found myself stuck focusing on a typo, incorrect wording, a sentence that didn't make sense, and even back to back repeated sentences. It got especially worse in the third book, where it felt like even the author was getting tired of it and just wanted to meet some word or page quota. If I'd had a physical copy of these books, I would have marked them up with red pen & found a way to ship them back to the author.
4. A book can either be unbelievable and well-written or believable and poorly written. This story was neither. I get that this is fiction, but at least make the story believable so the audience can be convinced by it, especially if you have to rely on the story to compensate for bad writing.
4a. So you're telling me that the MCs are gay -- okay, cool. But then so is practically everyone else that they come into contact with (with the exception of a couple women and a girl briefly mentioned)? Are they in a universe where gay men are the majority or something?
4b. In addition to practically everyone being a gay man, the world is apparently overrun by a human trafficking ring that deals primarily (or solely, it's not fully clear) in gay males? Surprise -- all the victims are also conveniently gay.
4c. (Book 3) The safe house annoys the ever-loving shit out of me --
4d. The whole operation is run by some unnamed agency that may or may not be the CIA, but it is and isn't a government related agency, and it can operate in and out of the United States.
.........okay. Sure, Jan.
4e. (Book 2)
4f. Love at first sight type bullshit in a story that simply is not fit for it. Sure, it can play out sometimes, but not in a situation where one MC is a human trafficker and the other is his victim.
5. Outside of the human trafficking aspect, there's an extra grossness to the Nathan & Carter relationship. The story reads like Carter is underage. Thankfully, however, it is made clear that he is 18+. But I still can't escape the gross feeling because there are constant references to Carter using terms that make him seem far younger than he is. The author makes it clear that there's quite a large gap in stature, and maturity level between the two of them, despite there only being a less than 10 ??) year age difference. (I'm not redownloading & going back to find the exact number.) It doesn't help that Maison only refers to Carter as "baby brother" instead of something like "little bro" that would be more commonly heard. Overall, there's a lot of infantilization when it comes to Carter. Gross.
I wanted to DNF these so bad, especially once I got to the third book. The entire thing was kind of like watching a train wreck in slow motion & you just can't look away. I only kept going after the first book because I wanted to see what kind of ridiculous mission completion the author wrote. Then I kept going through the third book because I was curious what the HEA would look like.
Like I mentioned earlier, the last book felt like even the author was ready to be done and just needed to meet a word or page quota before they could call it quits. It's simultaneously rushed and drawn out -- basically, there's almost nothing of substance in it. You get to see the HEA, but that's only after you sit through the MCs whining and going back and forth about not being able to communicate like adults. Honestly, you can probably skip the third book entirely and I'll give you the gist of the HEA --
October 22, 2023
I have some mixed feelings about this last book in the trilogy. I want to start pointing out I felt that the other two had a much better writting, which was jarring to me because I was fine with them for that exact reason. Sadly, it's not the same here.
The one big problem on this one, for me, was the development of Carter and Travis' relationship. While I agree that a recovery is not perfect, I still wish their dynamic would have ended up in a different way, other than going down the . There also was a lot of cringey dialogue between them. It got to a point I couldn't take seriously most of what they said to each other. They just don't work the best as a couple for me. I do have to admit that, .
Now, on the positive side, I basically liked everything else. .
The storyline was a nice surprise. I was sure the second half would be about
Another thing, I am excited about the hinted .
Anyway, I was expecting more from the finale. Not a bad one, because it did have some great conversations around very obscure topics, but after some more editing and cutting down certain scenes in favor of Carter alone or focusing on distinct scenarios, I'd have enjoyed this much more. I will be reading Casey's book next, I got attached to him since the beginning so I can't wait to see his side of the story.
The one big problem on this one, for me, was the development of Carter and Travis' relationship. While I agree that a recovery is not perfect, I still wish their dynamic would have ended up in a different way, other than going down the . There also was a lot of cringey dialogue between them. It got to a point I couldn't take seriously most of what they said to each other. They just don't work the best as a couple for me. I do have to admit that, .
Now, on the positive side, I basically liked everything else. .
The storyline was a nice surprise. I was sure the second half would be about
Another thing, I am excited about the hinted .
Anyway, I was expecting more from the finale. Not a bad one, because it did have some great conversations around very obscure topics, but after some more editing and cutting down certain scenes in favor of Carter alone or focusing on distinct scenarios, I'd have enjoyed this much more. I will be reading Casey's book next, I got attached to him since the beginning so I can't wait to see his side of the story.
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