Disclaim is the third book in Pam Godwin's Deliver series: a dark romance series that follows different couples caught inside a gritty and dangerous wDisclaim is the third book in Pam Godwin's Deliver series: a dark romance series that follows different couples caught inside a gritty and dangerous world of human trafficking. There is character crossover and an overarching plot, so it's definitely recommended to read the series in order.
“Funny thing, trust. It was so hard to give, yet easy to rip away”
Disclaim is Matias and Camilla's story sets itself apart from the first two books because the main characters have history. If you know me, you know the childhood connection trope is my kryptonite and especially when combined with an enemies to lovers and captor x captive situation so I well and truly ATE UP the intimate moments between Camilla and Matias. I really appreciate the complexity of their relationship and how challenging it must have been to pull off this romance!
Having said that, Matias' little secret-keeping game was agonizing at times. This isn't miscommunication, it's no communication, and it makes up the bulk of the story... but then by the end Matias kind of half convinced me it was completely necessary? He's so good that he psychologically manipulated me, too. ...more
First things first: let this review serve as a reminder to never judge a book by its cover. Both of the covers for this book are, well, absolutely hidFirst things first: let this review serve as a reminder to never judge a book by its cover. Both of the covers for this book are, well, absolutely hideous. It deserves better.
Nine Minutes is a really compelling read and I devoured it in less than 24hrs. It's different, heavy and disturbing. Like a car crash, I couldn't look away and feverishly read until the end. There were parts that shook me up and left me feeling an aching sense of dread. This is definitely a book for the emotional masochists of the world.
“Who was this person who could hack a man to pieces one day and save a kitten the next?”
Ginny Love is abducted by a notorious motorcycle gang in southeastern Florida at the age of fifteen. Yes, fifteen! Immediately catching the eye of the gang's violent and manipulative leader, Grizz, she has no hope of escaping. But Grizz shows her a tenderness that distorts her perception, "and so begins a tale of emotional obsession and manipulation".
Note that the main female character is a minor in this story. If you don't want to be inside the fragile mind of a child as she is manipulated into domestic bliss with a criminal ... maybe this won't be for you. I might be deranged, but I found it fascinating and addictive.
I personally don't know if I would call this a romance. It's more of a crime suspense with romantic elements. It doesn't have a typical happy ending. Regardless, it's good (dark) fiction that made me feel a whole lot of feelings and is now pretty much burned into my brain.
If you're a reader who enjoys dark and/or disturbing fiction that depicts toxic love and abuse, this will likely scratch that itch. . . . . . . . . . . .
There are many potential triggers in this story, including: abduction, psychological manipulation, rape, gang violence, murder organized crime, pregnancy and pregnancy loss, sexual assault of a minor, animal abuse, suicide, substance abuse, parental neglect, forced marriage, capital punishment....more
Obsession by Harleigh Beck is a dark thriller romance about a convicted serial killer on death row and the reporter covering his story. What an absoluObsession by Harleigh Beck is a dark thriller romance about a convicted serial killer on death row and the reporter covering his story. What an absolutely delicious relationship dynamic, right??
There are many potential triggers in this story. If you are sensitive to anything involving sexual abuse and assault of minors, violence and gore, torture, and/or serial murder, read with caution.
“Your instincts are trying to kill you, Savannah.”
I loved this! Robbie and Savannah's obsessive love story was completely unhinged, gory and thrilling. I really appreciated that Beck did not hold back when it came to the grit and gore of Robbie's extracurricular activities, but also gave him a backstory that forced me to humanize him and root for him.
Both of these characters have unimaginable and very disturbing trauma. They understand each other on another level and I was on board with their insanity through this entire book.
"See, that’s the thing: darkness recognizes darkness. It transcends time and space to find the other half of its soul, like darkening, ominous clouds that gather over a grassy field. Sooner or later, lightning strikes and burns valleys to the ground."
This was not a perfect read for me. I found myself wanting more tension between the characters in the beginning (I am a slow burn girl at heart) and a few elements of Savannah's behaviour seemed contradictory to me — but overall this was entertaining and memorable.
This was my first read from Harleigh Beck and it definitely won't be my last. A few of my friends have been raving about her for a long time, and I can see why!! So many from her backlist are now calling to me and I can't wait to experience more of her stories!...more
Bold Tricks by Karina Halle is the conclusion to the angsty and action-packed romantic suspense series: The Artists Trilogy.
"On one side of me was
Bold Tricks by Karina Halle is the conclusion to the angsty and action-packed romantic suspense series: The Artists Trilogy.
"On one side of me was Camden McQueen, on the other was Javier Bernal. One more light than dark, one more dark than light. Both men had come for me, both men had loved me, and both of them I had underestimated."
Please note that you cannot read this series out of order. You must start with Sins & Needles as the series follows the same characters with an overarching plot.
I binged this series and let it completely overstimulate me. I loved this wild ride!! Karina Halle's writing has always been comfort for me, but taking this trip through her backlist has really illuminated how much I appreciate her range and unique storytelling ability. The Artists Trilogy is a series I could see adapted to film; it's just got the whole package: grit, action, angst, heat, heart and humour layered into a plot that is steeped in danger and full of surprises.
I actually knew the outcome of this love triangle before I picked up Sins & Needles, because I accidentally started my journey through Halle's romantic suspense with one of her spin-off series (oops). I guess it's just a hazard of starting a series so late in the game. Knowing the outcome didn't negatively impact my reading experience at all, though I will say, I think if I went in blind I would have been leaning that way anyway. I thought Karina navigated the love triangle really well, and the outcome is the only one that would have made sense to me with the overarching commentary and themes throughout the story.
I never thought I'd be so invested in a love triangle, but I think this series proved to me that when done well, it's something I will absolutely EAT UP.
I loved the way Halle was able to wrap this story in such a way that answered all the lingering questions and provided closure while also throwing some extreme curveballs my way. Like the first two books in this series, the action starts early and does not stop.
I recommend this series to romance readers who are in the mood for action, entertainment, fierce and flawed characters, angsty and emotional romance with a love triangle and a non-formulaic plot. This is a new favourite for me from Karina Halle and a series I can't wait to revisit....more
Wow!! This was so angsty, entertaining, emotional and action-packed!! Karina Halle struck again with a fantastic continuation to my newest favourite sWow!! This was so angsty, entertaining, emotional and action-packed!! Karina Halle struck again with a fantastic continuation to my newest favourite series. The grit, intensity and absolute insanity at times... It's utter perfection. I am obsessed.
Please note that you cannot read this series out of order. You must start with Sins & Needles as the series follows the same characters with an overarching plot. Stop reading here — and perhaps read my review of Sins & Needles instead — if you don't want any potential spoilers for the previous books.
Potential triggers: psychological manipulation, cheating, drug cartel crime, violence and gore including guns and other very unique explosives.
"Such an angry little angel. Your wings are certainly dirty. They’re black."
"Like your heart."
So ... we've got a sociopathic drug lord who has manipulated and abducted his con-artist ex-girlfriend, and an angry tattoo artist with a dark side that will do anything to get her back.
What could possibly go wrong?!
“For as long as I’ve known Ellie, she’s always been gray. No black, no white.”
If you've read Sins & Needles, you're already well aware that this series is something of a love triangle. I never thought I'd be so invested in a love triangle but these characters are just so incredible I couldn't help getting caught in their web. I love Javier and Camden equally, albeit for very different reasons, and this makes the triangle work. The tension between all three characters had me by the throat and put my poor heart into a blender.
This series is a drug that I can't get enough of. It's sexy, unique and so addictive .. but beneath all the entertainment and passion is an exploration of morality, commentary on first love, broken hearts and learning to live with mistakes. If you like your characters to be perfect and virtuous without ever making the wrong choice, this series is probably not for you. Ellie, Camden and Javier all morally grey in varying shades and definitely challenged me at times, but I wouldn't change them for anything. Their intense entanglement has scarred my heart and I don't think I will ever be the same.
She’d embedded herself in my skin, like a tattoo I could never give myself.
This series is going down as a forever favourite and a top read of 2024 — over ten years after publication! I can't believe it took me so long to find this series. But hey, at least that means I can binge it. Diving into Bold Tricks ASAP!
PS. I made a playlist for this series and you can listen here on Spotify....more
This was my most anticipated read of the entire year and yet the moment it appeared on my kindle I had a sinking feeling that I wasn't ready. How doesThis was my most anticipated read of the entire year and yet the moment it appeared on my kindle I had a sinking feeling that I wasn't ready. How does one prepare to say goodbye to such cherished characters? To gain closure and move forward, leaving them behind?
I knew this would be a stellar book; Trisha Wolfe is one of my favourite writers and her stories never disappoint me. She's also incredibly gifted at writing strong endings. But this?? This was everything and more. I am completely awestruck. This was a feast for my mind, heart and soul. This was the best possible conclusion I could have imagined for my beloved Kallum and Halen.
As unhinged as it is deeply romantic, brilliant and calculated as it is emotionally affective and all-consuming, Lovely Wicked Things is the keystone to the masterpiece that is the Hollow's Row trilogy.
Please note that you absolutely cannot read these books out of order, as they build on one another. You have to start with Lovely Bad Things. This review is intentionally vague to avoid spoiling any part of the series. Potential triggers will be listed at the very bottom.
"The harder we deny our nature, the more painful our existence."
I'm the type of reader that craves intensity and Trisha Wolfe is the kind of writer that drowns me in it. Her ability to write character chemistry and intimacy is unmatched, and in combination with her truly twisted up and thrilling plots, it makes for the sweetest rush. Lovely Wicked Things is no exception.
"Question everything." If you've read the first two books, you know there are many questions that need answers in this conclusion. My mind was seriously blown with how everything came full circle in a way that was thrilling, organic and so damn romantic. The final twist had my jaw dropping with its perfect yet unpredictable execution, and insane emotional impact.
“I’ve felt your pain, so beautifully broken. I’ve seen you at your darkest, and you never looked more exquisite.”
Dr. Halen St. James is an incredible female character and her journey is absolutely unforgettable to me. She is so intelligent and capable, yet so lost to her pain. Her character carries this intense tone of melancholy that I could feel deeply before I even understood her history. My heart broke for her, and just like Professor Kallum Locke, I wanted to take her pain from her.
And Kallum? Well, we know how feral I am for this fictional man from my last review but I will try to give the short version: Kallum Locke is the perfect fictional man and the standard to which I now compare all future book boyfriends. I don't think I have ever swooned so hard in my life! In this final book we get answers to questions that surround him and oh my god he truly is perfection. His resolute, unrelenting and unconditional love for Halen takes my breath away and chokes me up! In fact, the way that both of these characters reach for each other and protect each other is so achingly beautiful to me. Their love feels sacred and reflecting on their story makes me incredibly emotional.
"It’s the connection of the twin flame. Once your other half is found, if divided, it will consume and devour everything in its path like the fires of hell to be reunited. It’s the course."
The layers and symbolism throughout all three books are seemingly infinite and I'll be content to spend the rest of my life dissecting the brilliance within these pages. I will never tire of this story and how everything has unfolded; it's one I will revisit over and over.
If you've been on the fence about starting or waiting for the series to be complete, don't wait a moment longer!
This review is full of my honest thoughts ramblings and opinions. I had the great pleasure of beta reading this book and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to support Trisha Wolfe with this release. This book, and this series, remain one of my all-time favourites and I will always recommend to dark romance readers that appreciate thrilling and twisted plots, crime romance and intense romance.
Extras: - Official playlist (Spotify) - Official Pinterest board . . . . Potential triggers: murder, violence and gore, surgical removal of body parts, occult practices and rituals, pregnancy loss, suicidal ideation, PTSD, grief and loss.
Merged review:
This was my most anticipated read of the entire year and yet the moment it appeared on my kindle I had a sinking feeling that I wasn't ready. How does one prepare to say goodbye to such cherished characters? To gain closure and move forward, leaving them behind?
I knew this would be a stellar book; Trisha Wolfe is one of my favourite writers and her stories never disappoint me. She's also incredibly gifted at writing strong endings. But this?? This was everything and more. I am completely awestruck. This was a feast for my mind, heart and soul. This was the best possible conclusion I could have imagined for my beloved Kallum and Halen.
As unhinged as it is deeply romantic, brilliant and calculated as it is emotionally affective and all-consuming, Lovely Wicked Things is the keystone to the masterpiece that is the Hollow's Row trilogy.
Please note that you absolutely cannot read these books out of order, as they build on one another. You have to start with Lovely Bad Things. This review is intentionally vague to avoid spoiling any part of the series. Potential triggers will be listed at the very bottom.
"The harder we deny our nature, the more painful our existence."
I'm the type of reader that craves intensity and Trisha Wolfe is the kind of writer that drowns me in it. Her ability to write character chemistry and intimacy is unmatched, and in combination with her truly twisted up and thrilling plots, it makes for the sweetest rush. Lovely Wicked Things is no exception.
"Question everything." If you've read the first two books, you know there are many questions that need answers in this conclusion. My mind was seriously blown with how everything came full circle in a way that was thrilling, organic and so damn romantic. The final twist had my jaw dropping with its perfect yet unpredictable execution, and insane emotional impact.
“I’ve felt your pain, so beautifully broken. I’ve seen you at your darkest, and you never looked more exquisite.”
Dr. Halen St. James is an incredible female character and her journey is absolutely unforgettable to me. She is so intelligent and capable, yet so lost to her pain. Her character carries this intense tone of melancholy that I could feel deeply before I even understood her history. My heart broke for her, and just like Professor Kallum Locke, I wanted to take her pain from her.
And Kallum? Well, we know how feral I am for this fictional man from my last review but I will try to give the short version: Kallum Locke is the perfect fictional man and the standard to which I now compare all future book boyfriends. I don't think I have ever swooned so hard in my life! In this final book we get answers to questions that surround him and oh my god he truly is perfection. His resolute, unrelenting and unconditional love for Halen takes my breath away and chokes me up! In fact, the way that both of these characters reach for each other and protect each other is so achingly beautiful to me. Their love feels sacred and reflecting on their story makes me incredibly emotional.
"It’s the connection of the twin flame. Once your other half is found, if divided, it will consume and devour everything in its path like the fires of hell to be reunited. It’s the course."
The layers and symbolism throughout all three books are seemingly infinite and I'll be content to spend the rest of my life dissecting the brilliance within these pages. I will never tire of this story and how everything has unfolded; it's one I will revisit over and over.
If you've been on the fence about starting or waiting for the series to be complete, don't wait a moment longer!
This review is full of my honest thoughts ramblings and opinions. I had the great pleasure of beta reading this book and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to support Trisha Wolfe with this release. This book, and this series, remain one of my all-time favourites and I will always recommend to dark romance readers that appreciate thrilling and twisted plots, crime romance and intense romance.
Extras: - Official playlist (Spotify) - Official Pinterest board . . . . Potential triggers: murder, violence and gore, surgical removal of body parts, occult practices and rituals, pregnancy loss, suicidal ideation, PTSD, grief and loss....more
Madeleine Abducted starts off strong and I truly thought I was going to be in for a brutal and horrifying ride on the way to a happy-ever-after. While the story wasn't bad, it unfolded in a way that felt really safe for both of our main characters despite the supposed high stakes. There was a lot of emphasis on erotica in favour of plot, where for whatever reason, I expected the opposite. Don't get me wrong, there are a few incredibly dark scenes, particularly near the end, but I still expected the characters to be challenged more.
She is light while I am darkness, she is raw beauty and so blessedly pure while I am nothing more than a poison to humanity. She deserves her life far more than I deserve mine.
Madeleine Clark is an introverted and naive woman whose life revolves around playing the cello. After her musical talent catches the eye of Aaron Carmichael, her life changes in the blink of an eye when she is abducted and gifted to Aaron by his unhinged father. She must learn to be a slave to her new Master, or die trying.
Aaron Carmichael is The Estate's executioner; raised within The Estate, he has a violent darkness in him which he uses to serve his father by executing threats to his organized operations. But he has a lightness in him, too. As Maddy takes in her surroundings, she learns that there is more to Aaron than meets the eye.
“Is it impossible to believe that a man who’s killed also can play a piano?”
I loved the important role that music plays for both of our main characters, and the intimate scenes between Maddy and Aaron where music connects them were definitely my favourite. Their spicy scenes were super hot despite how wrong they should have felt.. and even though some things about both characters annoyed me, I rooted for them. Their HEA is an interesting one and I'm curious to see how their life evolves in Hope Restrained.
I do wish that Joseph was more present in this story or that we got to understand more of how The Estate operates (I suppose that may be why Joseph Fallen was written, but I still wish those aspects of the story were included here as this takes place 20 years later). I think it would have made the stakes more believable and given better rationale for the depravity. Because even though there are some incredibly unhinged scenes, the darkness occasionally felt like it was there for shock value which is something I have never thought of this author's work before.
**** spoilers below **** . . . . . . . . .
While the last 20% delivered the pacing and intensity I was craving, it still fell a little flat. (view spoiler)[I had to suspend my belief as Aaron and Xander slaughtered 40-50 armed men by themselves and though I loved how Maddy pulled through at the end, I wished Aaron had the opportunity to confront Joseph and make him suffer. I was actually hoping he would get a certain appendage chopped off for what he did to Arianna. (hide spoiler)]
I am definitely going to continue with the series but knowing it is unfinished, I am not sure that I would recommend it as a whole just yet. I definitely recommend Joseph Fallen, just know that if you follow it with this one you may find it less impactful....more
A dark, thrilling and deeply romantic masterpiece — 5 stars is not enough. This left me absolutely awestruck.
Truly, I'd been salivating for this releaA dark, thrilling and deeply romantic masterpiece — 5 stars is not enough. This left me absolutely awestruck.
Truly, I'd been salivating for this release since falling head over heels for Then, Earth Swallowed Ocean and Like Neon Mornings earlier this year. Shiloh Sloane's writing is consistently breathtaking, captivating and so original. This book has only solidified my faith in her creative brilliance and insane writing ability. This was a phenomenal experience — probably one of the best books I've ever read.
Cracked Blue Sky is a dark paranormal romantic suspense novel set in the 1950's. It is the sequel to Then, Earth Swallowed Ocean (TESO), but it can technically be read as a standalone. I definitely recommend reading Then, Earth Swallowed Ocean first as it will provide some valuable context and give the best reading experience, in my opinion. (It's also simply an amazing story and I highly recommend!)
"I'll be your monster, Howie. S'long as I'm yours somehow."
Cracked Blue Sky picks up right where TESO leaves off, and if you've read it you'll know that means shifting to an entirely different landscape. Wright Lindal — werewolf and WW2 veteran — is trying to outrun his inner demons by moving to Jackson, Wyoming to do some honest work on a ranch and find some peace. Though he's lived his whole life hiding in plain sight and feeding only according to his code, he suddenly finds himself under the watchful gaze of the only female detective in the Teton County Sheriff's Department: Howie Black Elk. While there is an undeniable, overwhelming spark of infatuation between them, Howie can't deny her intuition: he's hiding something. As she vehemently investigates a string of gruesome and animalistic murders, she starts to worry that Wright is the culprit... and that her relentless pursuit for justice might have put her in grave danger.
"They can't look at each other like this. They do just to damn themselves."
When I say this is a story about a werewolf soldier turned cowboy, I feel the need to say with conviction that it's the complete opposite of cheesy. This story is dripping with poetry, culture and an emotional depth that is not easily captured in fiction. It also has an intense and passionate romance with spice that is hot as sin and and horror elements that are gory, gritty and EVERYTHING I want from a realistic portrayal of werewolves.
While I was completely enraptured with the tension and chemistry between Howie and Wright, the suspenseful plot also had me in its iron grip. This story is a wild and unpredictable ride.. in the BEST WAY! It unfolded like a movie in my mind, my jaw truly dropping at some of the twists. It's been awhile since I've read such a perfectly paced book with such a flawlessly executed plot.
"Now I know the taste of you, I'll crawl from the fuckin' grave for it."
Howie Black Elk has to be, hands down, one of my favourite female protagonists of all-time. She is EVERYTHING — resilient, strong, relatable and steadfast with an unwavering commitment to her family and identity despite relentless harassment and pressure to be anything but true to herself. Full disclosure here: I am not Native American. But I personally felt Howie's representation was depicted in the most respectful, intentional and sensitive way. I want to give Sloane a standing ovation for how incredible this character is, and how much nuance and impact her history and heritage added to the story. Outside of the cultural aspects, she is simply a fierce and inspiring, badass female character that felt like the perfect match for Wright. Their darkness dances together in the most swoon-worthy way and I cannot get enough!
"It's enough to make him question his belief in God because how can He be the only deity when her warmth makes a magnet of his knees to the earth?"
And Wright Lindal. BIG SWOON. I loved him in TESO with his tragic backstory and very obvious inner demons and his hopelessness that made me ache. Unlike his brother Ridge, Wright's inner animal has almost always been caged. He's constantly aware of his own collateral damage and the morality of his way of life. In Cracked Blue Sky, we are given a story where some of the clouds of his haunting past are cleared away. We get to see what Wright looks like with a sense of hope ... where letting his animal out of the cage is worth the consequences. He becomes an obsessive and possessive, dirty-talking, panty-melting werewolf cowboy that will stop at nothing for his lover. The devotion he shows and the things that come out of his mouth... I'm melting all over again just thinking about it.
HIGHLY recommend this series to any dark paranormal romance readers or horror erotica readers that want something refreshing albeit depraved, and appreciate true enemies to lovers, rich and evocative writing and creative storytelling! I am obsessed!
Listing potential triggers below as some could be considered spoilers: . . . . . . Potential triggers: mentions of suicidal thoughts, abuse, violence, blood and gore, murder, grief and loss, non-con between love interests, antisemitism, mentions of genocide, abuse of a minor, PTSD representation, non-consensual medical experimentation, prejudice and harassment....more
I loved this!! Once again, I am floored by Trisha Wolfe's writing. This woman is a brilliant lyricist, turning the even the most dark and disturbing iI loved this!! Once again, I am floored by Trisha Wolfe's writing. This woman is a brilliant lyricist, turning the even the most dark and disturbing into striking poetry. For such a small book, this packs a big punch.
Born, Darkly is part one of the Darkly, Madly duet; a psychological thriller with an unconventional romance that sparks between a serial killer and his psychologist. It is sick and twisted and I ate it up. This is a true psychopathic romance, so if you want love interests that wouldn't put the other in harm's way, this isn't for you. But if you want unhinged obsession, this is it.
Diving into Born, Madly! I'll write a more detailed review for the duet as a whole when I'm done.
Merged review:
I loved this!! Once again, I am floored by Trisha Wolfe's writing. This woman is a brilliant lyricist, turning the even the most dark and disturbing into striking poetry. For such a small book, this packs a big punch.
Born, Darkly is part one of the Darkly, Madly duet; a psychological thriller with an unconventional romance that sparks between a serial killer and his psychologist. It is sick and twisted and I ate it up. This is a true psychopathic romance, so if you want love interests that wouldn't put the other in harm's way, this isn't for you. But if you want unhinged obsession, this is it.
Diving into Born, Madly! I'll write a more detailed review for the duet as a whole when I'm done....more
Born, Madly is the second and final book in the Darkly, Madly Duet by Trisha Wolfe. It's a psychological thriller romance with an unconventional romanBorn, Madly is the second and final book in the Darkly, Madly Duet by Trisha Wolfe. It's a psychological thriller romance with an unconventional romance that sparks between a serial killer and his psychologist. It's dark and twisted, unforgettable and unputdownable... and I loved every second of it!
Potential triggers: sociopathy, mental illness, serial murder, mentions of human trafficking, child abuse, graphic violence and gore, suffering, explicit sexual scenes including dub con.
Grayson Sullivan, hailed by the media as the Angel of Maine, is a ruthless serial killer that gets off on watching his victims suffer mentally and physically. Dr. London Noble is a psychologist, dedicating most of her career to counselling the most heinous criminals to analyze their potential for rehabilitation and testify in court. What starts as a seemingly professional relationship between a criminal and his doctor quickly devolves to something carnal, dangerous and transformative.
"We were designed for each other. Don’t you feel the pain when we’re apart? Don’t you want it to stop?" Born, Darkly
I'm going to try to review this duet as a whole while avoiding spoilers from either book. Both of these books are short, though they cover a lot of ground and each carry a unique impact. The first book focuses more on London's background and psyche, and the final book focuses more on Grayson's. Together, this duet tells a story of two damaged people that cannot escape their obsession with the other. It gave me Romeo and Juliet vibes, but in a twisted, psychopathic kind of way.
"For the average mentally healthy person, the emotion of love can make them do the unthinkable. What is Grayson capable of?" Born, Madly
Duplicity is a theme throughout this story and I was honestly stunned by Wolfe's ability not just to explore it but to bring it to life through her characters. I was tricked and challenged by these characters, but in the best way. Getting to know their true nature as the story unfolded had me falling hard and also questioning my morals. If London and Grayson are wrong, I don't want to be right.
The plot is exceptionally structured and executed; the premise hooked me, the suspense kept me glued to the pages, and the twists and turns made it so addictive! And this all leads to a conclusion that is impactful, poetic and absolutely perfect. The writing, true to Wolfe, is dripping with poeticism and intensity. Something about her words create such a visceral reading experience for me.
"Love is pain. Real love—the one not spewed in poetry—is agony. It tears at your soul, strips you bare, drives you mad and demands the veracity of our existence. Love is madness." Born, Madly
I've said it before and I'll say it again: Trisha Wolfe is brilliant. I've come to love her writing for the lyrical spin she puts on even the most disturbing of scenes and characters. I recommend this duet to all dark romance readers that enjoy unhinged characters, morally black characters, poetic writing, crime romance, and intense and obsessive romance.
Merged review:
Born, Madly is the second and final book in the Darkly, Madly Duet by Trisha Wolfe. It's a psychological thriller romance with an unconventional romance that sparks between a serial killer and his psychologist. It's dark and twisted, unforgettable and unputdownable... and I loved every second of it!
Potential triggers: sociopathy, mental illness, serial murder, mentions of human trafficking, child abuse, graphic violence and gore, suffering, explicit sexual scenes including dub con.
Grayson Sullivan, hailed by the media as the Angel of Maine, is a ruthless serial killer that gets off on watching his victims suffer mentally and physically. Dr. London Noble is a psychologist, dedicating most of her career to counselling the most heinous criminals to analyze their potential for rehabilitation and testify in court. What starts as a seemingly professional relationship between a criminal and his doctor quickly devolves to something carnal, dangerous and transformative.
"We were designed for each other. Don’t you feel the pain when we’re apart? Don’t you want it to stop?" Born, Darkly
I'm going to try to review this duet as a whole while avoiding spoilers from either book. Both of these books are short, though they cover a lot of ground and each carry a unique impact. The first book focuses more on London's background and psyche, and the final book focuses more on Grayson's. Together, this duet tells a story of two damaged people that cannot escape their obsession with the other. It gave me Romeo and Juliet vibes, but in a twisted, psychopathic kind of way.
"For the average mentally healthy person, the emotion of love can make them do the unthinkable. What is Grayson capable of?" Born, Madly
Duplicity is a theme throughout this story and I was honestly stunned by Wolfe's ability not just to explore it but to bring it to life through her characters. I was tricked and challenged by these characters, but in the best way. Getting to know their true nature as the story unfolded had me falling hard and also questioning my morals. If London and Grayson are wrong, I don't want to be right.
The plot is exceptionally structured and executed; the premise hooked me, the suspense kept me glued to the pages, and the twists and turns made it so addictive! And this all leads to a conclusion that is impactful, poetic and absolutely perfect. The writing, true to Wolfe, is dripping with poeticism and intensity. Something about her words create such a visceral reading experience for me.
"Love is pain. Real love—the one not spewed in poetry—is agony. It tears at your soul, strips you bare, drives you mad and demands the veracity of our existence. Love is madness." Born, Madly
I've said it before and I'll say it again: Trisha Wolfe is brilliant. I've come to love her writing for the lyrical spin she puts on even the most disturbing of scenes and characters. I recommend this duet to all dark romance readers that enjoy unhinged characters, morally black characters, poetic writing, crime romance, and intense and obsessive romance.
Merged review:
Born, Madly is the second and final book in the Darkly, Madly Duet by Trisha Wolfe. It's a psychological thriller romance with an unconventional romance that sparks between a serial killer and his psychologist. It's dark and twisted, unforgettable and unputdownable... and I loved every second of it!
Potential triggers: sociopathy, mental illness, serial murder, mentions of human trafficking, child abuse, graphic violence and gore, suffering, explicit sexual scenes including dub con.
Grayson Sullivan, hailed by the media as the Angel of Maine, is a ruthless serial killer that gets off on watching his victims suffer mentally and physically. Dr. London Noble is a psychologist, dedicating most of her career to counselling the most heinous criminals to analyze their potential for rehabilitation and testify in court. What starts as a seemingly professional relationship between a criminal and his doctor quickly devolves to something carnal, dangerous and transformative.
"We were designed for each other. Don’t you feel the pain when we’re apart? Don’t you want it to stop?" Born, Darkly
I'm going to try to review this duet as a whole while avoiding spoilers from either book. Both of these books are short, though they cover a lot of ground and each carry a unique impact. The first book focuses more on London's background and psyche, and the final book focuses more on Grayson's. Together, this duet tells a story of two damaged people that cannot escape their obsession with the other. It gave me Romeo and Juliet vibes, but in a twisted, psychopathic kind of way.
"For the average mentally healthy person, the emotion of love can make them do the unthinkable. What is Grayson capable of?" Born, Madly
Duplicity is a theme throughout this story and I was honestly stunned by Wolfe's ability not just to explore it but to bring it to life through her characters. I was tricked and challenged by these characters, but in the best way. Getting to know their true nature as the story unfolded had me falling hard and also questioning my morals. If London and Grayson are wrong, I don't want to be right.
The plot is exceptionally structured and executed; the premise hooked me, the suspense kept me glued to the pages, and the twists and turns made it so addictive! And this all leads to a conclusion that is impactful, poetic and absolutely perfect. The writing, true to Wolfe, is dripping with poeticism and intensity. Something about her words create such a visceral reading experience for me.
"Love is pain. Real love—the one not spewed in poetry—is agony. It tears at your soul, strips you bare, drives you mad and demands the veracity of our existence. Love is madness." Born, Madly
I've said it before and I'll say it again: Trisha Wolfe is brilliant. I've come to love her writing for the lyrical spin she puts on even the most disturbing of scenes and characters. I recommend this duet to all dark romance readers that enjoy unhinged characters, morally black characters, poetic writing, crime romance, and intense and obsessive romance....more
Cellar Door is a dark psychological thriller romance novella, originally published in Wanted: An Outlaw Anthology. I don't usually gravitate toward noCellar Door is a dark psychological thriller romance novella, originally published in Wanted: An Outlaw Anthology. I don't usually gravitate toward novellas, but I know from experience that Trisha Wolfe can pack a big punch into 250 pages!
"There’s a fine line between passion and obsession. I crossed that line, and I’m standing before a man that spiraled down obsession’s pit."
Makenna Davies is a private investigator with a tragic and bitter past. While on the job, she witnesses a murder and becomes an instant liability for the criminal responsible: Luke Easton. She finds herself abducted and thrown into an ominous cellar that may as well be a coffin. It's not long before the darkness of the cellar starts to fray Makenna's mind, unraveling a web of horror and deceit.
"She locked herself in that cellar. I might hold the key, but she holds the way out."
This story is intriguing, original and really well done. It's a true enemies to lovers situation with obsession thrown in the mix. The romance definitely takes a backseat to the plot, but it's still present and impactful. One of the plot twists took me by surprise and I absolutely loved the conclusion.
This story gets quite dark and a little gruesome. There are a number of potential triggers so I suggest looking them up if you have any difficulty with dark subject matter....more
With Visions of Red by Trisha Wolfe is a dark crime romance that definitely gives a Criminal Minds kind of vibe. I understand this is Wolfe's first diWith Visions of Red by Trisha Wolfe is a dark crime romance that definitely gives a Criminal Minds kind of vibe. I understand this is Wolfe's first dive into dark romance, and I picked it up specifically to get a glimpse of her earlier storytelling. I have read and loved her Hollow's Row series and wanted to see where the madness might have started.
Potential triggers: serial murder, crime scenes, mentions of abduction, captivity and rape, PTSD symptoms, explicit scenes including BDSM, voyeurism and Shibari.
“Sometimes the lure to become the thing we fear—just to alleviate that fear—is too great a temptation.”
I decided to review the series as a whole (books 1-3) rather than individual reviews, as each book is quite short and they are interconnected with cliffhangers in between.
Wolfe's writing here is less complex than her more recent work, but it still shows her potential and has a flare that is so uniquely Trisha. Throughout all three books, I could so clearly see little seeds of what I can only assume bloomed into Kallum and Halen from Hollow's Row; the themes of grief as an abyss, the making of monsters through trauma, and the healing power of vulnerability and connection.
“There’s nothing wrong with you, goddess. Just the absolute tragedy that I didn’t make you mine first.”
That's not to say this story doesn't stand on it's own because it absolutely does! Sadie and Colton have a unique connection and their intense romance was my favourite part. Colton is a healer and a worshipper, and some of his reverent lines made me melt. Sadie is complex, headstrong and resilient, and I was immediately intrigued by her backstory. I wish we got to see more of her darker side on page. The poetic intensity I've come to love from Wolfe is definitely present here and this couple left a lasting impression on me.
I loved the structure of this story, having the perspectives of our two main love interests as well as the unsub. The mystery and suspense kept me on my toes as I had no idea who the culprit was until it was revealed. The plot is well-crafted with no loose ends and a strong, memorable conclusion!
I would recommend this to readers that like dark romance with male protagonists that worship their woman, BDSM representation, serial killer investigations, and headstrong female protagonists. I think it would make a great introduction to dark romance.
Wolfe is one of a kind and I am loving my journey through her backlist!...more
Lotus Effect by Trisha Wolfe is a psychological thriller that is haunting, suspenseful and melancholic. Please note this is not a romance, though therLotus Effect by Trisha Wolfe is a psychological thriller that is haunting, suspenseful and melancholic. Please note this is not a romance, though there are romantic elements that add depth to the narrative.
"If a girl dies in a lake and no one is around to see, is she truly dead?"
Lakin Hale is the survivor of a brutal attack. With no recollection of her aggressor and no investigative leads, her case went cold four years ago. Now a successful true crime writer, writing others' closure has become Lakin's drug of choice as the only thing that can placate the swirling beast of unanswered questions from her past. But her newest cold case has striking similarities to her own, calling forth ghosts from her past and threatening her sense of emotional stability.
It's no secret that I'm a little obsessed with Trisha Wolfe's writing; she has a unique writer's voice with a poetic intensity that I crave and an ability to craft the most solid and impactful plots. This book was no exception! The pacing and suspense in this story kept me invested and the twist definitely got me — I loved how the pieces of the mystery came together! Trisha always delivers twists that shake me up but also make me think: how did I not see that coming!?
"It’s a warped piece of irony, for such beauty on the surface is terrifying beneath."
Trisha's writing is genius. Most of the story is told by Lakin with a sort of limited emotional range: very logical, objective, distanced from anything that can stir the heart. The epilogue really sealed this story as a memorable one for me. Her emotional range widens as Lakin unfolds from the mud of her past; the Lotus Effect actualized in her human experience. It left me feeling hopeful and inspired.
The romance, while subtle, is entirely swoon-worthy. I adore Rhys' character and everything that his steady and supportive presence offered Lakin.
I read this by switching back and forth between Kindle and the audiobook. I absolutely loved the voice actor, Victoria Villarreal. I would definitely recommend the audiobook if that is your preferred way of reading....more