Marked by Measha Stone is a dark, unconventional, and ultra-steamy romance that follows the story of Harley, a young woman who survives a brutal aMarked by Measha Stone is a dark, unconventional, and ultra-steamy romance that follows the story of Harley, a young woman who survives a brutal attack and loses her twin sister. Her strength and determination after all she has endured are admirable. Zack, a mysterious vigilante, arrives in town for a job and meets Harley. There's an immediate attraction between them, and he is determined to protect and claim her as his.
The storyline was interesting, but it could have been more believable. After Harley is kidnapped and brutalized, she quickly opens up to Zack. Despite only meeting him once, their relationship becomes physical, and he becomes a big part of her healing journey. It's hard to believe that Harley would trust Zack so soon. Although I liked both characters, this made the romance feel less genuine to me. However, the mystery of Harley's abduction is what really kept me engaged in the story. I was eager to find out who was behind it and rooted for Harley and Zack as they sought justice for all she endured.
Take Her by Cassie Alexander is the first book in The Moth and the Monster trilogy and marks the author's contemporary debut.
What you can expect: -Take Her by Cassie Alexander is the first book in The Moth and the Monster trilogy and marks the author's contemporary debut.
What you can expect: -an age-gap romance featuring Daddy's best friend -a workplace, forced proximity romance -suspenseful family drama -a heroine who has been in love with the hero since her youth -a tortured hero and widower -an irresistible attraction that intensifies over time -a cliffhanger ending that isn't overly dramatic
✨ "...if I was a moth, then he was my flame, and I was just going to keep flying nearer and nearer until he burned me alive. - Lia ✨
I greatly enjoyed reading Take Her! Despite its 400+ pages, I finished the book in no time. The pacing was excellent, filled with intimate moments and engaging dialogue between the main characters. The backstory is well-developed, and the direction of the plot is clear. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment!
Amber Warden's Hidden But Not Safe perfectly captures the essence of the dark romance genre. The story is intense and definitely not for the faintAmber Warden's Hidden But Not Safe perfectly captures the essence of the dark romance genre. The story is intense and definitely not for the faint of heart! It's the second installment in the Wicked Defenders series and is narrated solely from Naz's perspective, a character introduced in the previous book: Hidden While In Sight .
The opening chapter immediately draws you in with its intensity, immersing you in a haunting tale of survival and blossoming love in the gritty underworld of the cartel.
Meg, the resilient heroine, uses her body as a means to survive and becomes the newest plaything for Naz's crew leader. While enduring taunts and lewd threats from the crew, Meg finds a protector in Naz. Their evolving friendship eventually transforms into love and security.
✨"I didn't know it'd feel like this. Hold me tighter. I feel like I could float away." Naz could never get her close enough. "Thank you, Naz. I love you." "Love you," Naz said, nuzzling against her hair.✨
My heart ached for both Meg and Naz as they endured their hardships. I've never rooted harder for characters to find their happy ending. The final chapter fast-forwards 2 years into the future, and it was incredibly heartwarming to witness Meg and Naz settled into a comforting and loving life together. Amber Warden truly brought this gripping story to life!
⚠️Content Spoilers: (view spoiler)[Sexual Abuse, Suicide, Death, Physical Abuse, Profanity, Abortion, Condoms, purchase of after pill, Rape (underage), Explicit Sexual Content (exhibitionism, voyeurism, transactional sex), Drug Use/Over-dose, and Violence. Childhood trauma (flashbacks), PTSD. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Ruthless Sinner is a wild ride with compelling characters that immerse you in a chaotic world of retribution, dominance, and brutality.
Here is whRuthless Sinner is a wild ride with compelling characters that immerse you in a chaotic world of retribution, dominance, and brutality.
Here is what you can expect from this enemies-to-lovers mafia romance: - a dark captive romance - an obsessed morally ambiguous hero - a tumultuous heroine - dysfunctional family dynamics - trauma - kink - HEA w/ Epilogue
Adalina is celebrating her 21st birthday with her friends at a nightclub when she meets 31 y.o. Dante. She decides that a one-night stand is worth her father's wrath and goes home with him. Little does Adalina know, that Dante plans to hold her ransom until her father repays his debts to Dante's family. However, Dante's strong desire to possess her contradicts his initial plan for revenge. After enduring years of abuse by her father, Adalina yearns for a savior. Although Adalina doesn't deny their fiery attraction, Dante's manipulation and treatment of her make her hesitant to believe Dante could ever be that man.
Overall, I enjoyed Ruthless Sinner by Cora Kent. The plot was engaging, and the characters were intriguing, particularly Dante, who was driven by his obsession with Adalina. However, I found his treatment of her to be questionable at times. I was surprised at the lack of groveling from Dante, which I had hoped to see. Adalina is a strong female lead, so it seemed out of character for her to readily forgive him, especially after his behavior toward the end of their story.
Dante's inner circle, including his bodyguard Enzo and his brothers, allowed me to see different sides of the lead characters, which I appreciated. I am eager to learn more about Enzo and hope Cora Kent grants him his very own happily ever after.
After reading numerous fairytale retellings, I craved something darker, and Carnival Monster by Selena Winters certainly delivered!
Here is what yoAfter reading numerous fairytale retellings, I craved something darker, and Carnival Monster by Selena Winters certainly delivered!
Here is what you can expect from this erotic horror story: - a mysterious masked hero looking for his next victim - a tempting and fearless heroine - an instant attraction with intoxicating kink - gut punching triggers - a sweet HEA
I appreciated the depth of the characters and the fleshed-out storyline. If you're in the mood for a wild and thrilling escape into the darker side of romance, I recommend reading this story!
✨... familiar darkness calls to me, promising the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of the kill. But her gaze holds a different promise of connection, understanding, and life beyond the shadows. - Gage✨
I was blown away by Neva Altaj's remix of the classic tale, Beauty and the Beast! Beautiful Beast captured all the beloved elements of the oriI was blown away by Neva Altaj's remix of the classic tale, Beauty and the Beast! Beautiful Beast captured all the beloved elements of the original story while adding a creative twist that breathed new life into the fairy tale. It was exactly the kind of story I was craving. I found myself eagerly looking forward to diving back into it at every opportunity, and though it had to end, the conclusion was adorably satisfying.
Here's what you can expect from the story: ...more
Hidden While in Sight is the first book in the Wicked Defenders series by Amber Warden. It is a steamy standalone mafia-esque romance centered around Hidden While in Sight is the first book in the Wicked Defenders series by Amber Warden. It is a steamy standalone mafia-esque romance centered around Hannah and Diego.
I chanced upon this novel, retitled "Sorcerers Reign," while browsing on Kickstarter. The book's intriguing blurb and beautiful artwork immediately drI chanced upon this novel, retitled "Sorcerers Reign," while browsing on Kickstarter. The book's intriguing blurb and beautiful artwork immediately drew me in, and I'm pleased that I took a leap of faith and invested in this reimagined story of Aladdin.
The author, Jennifer M. Eaton, deserves immense credit for her skillful weaving of familiar characters and settings with fresh and innovative twists. The story is crafted with intricate detail and depth, making it an entertaining and charming adventure. The story's pace unfolds slowly but steadily, building momentum and creating a sense of anticipation that kept me riveted to the narrative.
I didn't realize, however, that Princess Badra, the MFC, was only 17 y.o., while the MMC, Jai'far Amir, was 25. Although the romance between the two characters was subtle, with hand-holding and occasional kisses, some occurrences were off-putting once I realized the princess's age. For example, (view spoiler)[Aladdin (the "villain") gifts Princess Badra enchanted jewelry to force her submission and gropes her bare breasts in the presence of others. (hide spoiler)] I want to mention that I'm a fan of the dark romance genre, and taboo situations don't usually bother me. However, there was an innocence to this story that I wish had been preserved.
With that said, "Sorcerers Reign" is an enjoyable tale with an ideal blend of fantasy, adventure, intrigue, and romance. Jennifer M. Eaton's creativity and storytelling are sure to captivate readers.
Moonlit Thorns is an impressive retelling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. From the very beginning, I was thoroughly engrossed in the storMoonlit Thorns is an impressive retelling of the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast. From the very beginning, I was thoroughly engrossed in the story. Its gothic vibes completely swept me away! Although I wasn't familiar with the authors, P. Rayne, I approached the book with an open mind, not knowing what to expect. The story takes place in Magnolia Bend, a small town shrouded in mystery where the Voss family reigns. While I was hoping for more paranormal elements in the story (at least that was the direction I thought the story was headed), I found the contemporary retelling with billionaire alpha-hole brothers and sex parties just as alluring.
The book's hero, Asher, the eldest Voss brother, is a dominant and mysterious figure at 36 y.o. Although he's obnoxious, I found his character oddly endearing. Asher evicts the book's heroine, Anabelle Boudreaux, a 22 y.o. woman, from her family's estate, which he acquired due to her father's gambling debts. Despite his arrogant and crude behavior towards Anabelle, I couldn't help but root for their relationship.
Asher and Anabelle strike a bargain, and she agrees to work off her father's debt by residing at his estate. However, being in close proximity proved to be a challenge for them. Anabelle finds it hard to hide her attraction towards Asher, which makes for some amusing moments when he calls her out for it. There is some back and forth between them, but I admired Anabelle's resolve because she didn't wait around vying for Asher's affection. She knew she had other options, and damn Asher if he wouldn't acknowledge how amazing they could be together! I enjoyed them as individual characters but, also loved the slow burn from enemies to lovers to much more.
✨ "I love you, Asher Voss. All the parts of you. The damaged ones, the healing ones, and the perfect ones..." ✨
Moonlit Thorns is a great book that I will definitely read again. I can't wait for the next one in this series!
Sienna Cross' Savage King picks up the story a few months after the events of the first book, Ruthless King . It delves into the tumultuous romance beSienna Cross' Savage King picks up the story a few months after the events of the first book, Ruthless King . It delves into the tumultuous romance between Dante Valentino and Rose Holloway, exploring their complex pasts and the challenges they must overcome to gain their happy ending.
29-year-old Dante is trying to make up for his past mistakes. When his brother, Luca, and his future sister-in-law, Stella, are threatened, he takes control of King Industries and insists they go into hiding. Along with his new business responsibilities, he is also tasked with watching over Stella's best friend, Rose, a 22-year-old spirited young woman who is equally as brash and impulsive as Dante.
Rose has her own set of problems to contend with. After dating a patient from the psychology practice where she interns, she finds herself being stalked by him. Rose is left with no one to turn to except Dante, as her friend Stella is gone and she is estranged from her family. As their worlds collide, their tension intensifies, and they eventually give in to their mutual longing.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Rose and Dante's journey. They are perfectly suited for each other despite their faults. Together, they help one another confront their inner demons and find solace in their connection. Their relationship develops at a good pace, and the writing flows well. The plot is thrilling and well-crafted. I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in this dark and edgy series, and thanks to the epilogue, we know it will revolve around Maisy and Nico Rossi.
This stunning cover is a perfect introduction to the contents within Reckless Hearts by Jagger Cole - a gripping and emotionally raw tale of two damagThis stunning cover is a perfect introduction to the contents within Reckless Hearts by Jagger Cole - a gripping and emotionally raw tale of two damaged individuals who find solace in each other's darkness.
✨ "I came for revenge. I got her instead. And I wouldn't change that for the world." - Deimos Drakos ✨
Deimos Drakos is a gorgeous, intimidating, and highly strategic man, especially concerning Dahlia Roy. When he sets his sights on her, she becomes his new obsession.
Six years ago, on Halloween night, Dahlia found Deimos with blood on his hands and bodies at his feet. She flees from him in terror, but fate brings them together again when Dahlia befriends Callie, Deimos's sister, without knowing their connection. When Dahlia and Deimos reunite at Callie's 21st birthday celebration, their past wounds reopen, revealing an insatiable desire that only they can satisfy in each other.
The author does an excellent job of portraying the intensity and rawness of Dahlia and Deimos' connection while also delivering glimpses of tender moments that left me breathless. The book is well-written, and I really enjoyed reading the many suspenseful twists and turns they had to endure to reach their happy ending.
However, I was a bit disappointed with the revelation that while being apart for six years, Deimos had been secretly sabotaging any potential relationships Dahlia might have had while he was enjoying the company of other women. This surprised me as Jagger Cole's male protagonists are usually portrayed as possessive and fiercely loyal. Nonetheless, I still found Reckless Hearts a great read overall.
As a fan of dark romantic suspense, I highly recommend Dreadful by Greer Rivers. From the captivating cover to the moody playlist, seductive plot, andAs a fan of dark romantic suspense, I highly recommend Dreadful by Greer Rivers. From the captivating cover to the moody playlist, seductive plot, and tenacious characters, this book is a must-read! I am obsessed with this series, but Greer Rivers has truly outdone herself with this latest installment.
The story revolves around Talia "Tallie" Amoretti and Severino "Sev" Luciano.
Sev and Tallie were just 10 and 7 years old when they were held captive together for several weeks. Despite the abuse they endured, they found solace in each other's company and became close friends. Eventually, they hatched a plan to escape, but things went awry, and Sev was the only one who managed to make it out alive. Or so it seemed...
Tallie secretly survived and was given a new identity, unbeknownst to all. As an adult, 15 years later, she seeks revenge on those who once hurt her. And the last person on her list is the young boy she believed left her behind years ago.
"There's beauty in finally becoming the person you're meant to be... even if that person is a killer." - Talia
Brace yourself for a spellbinding tale of resilience and love that triumphs over even the darkest circumstances. Featuring a cast of provocative characters on a whirlwind ride of mayhem, this story will keep you on the edge of your seat until its spectacular conclusion. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey of hope and heartache!
**spoiler alert** Devil of the High Seas by Lauren Smith is an enthralling historical romance novel that transports readers through dangerous waters i**spoiler alert** Devil of the High Seas by Lauren Smith is an enthralling historical romance novel that transports readers through dangerous waters in pursuit of adventure and love. The story revolves around the themes of women's empowerment and equality, portrayed through engaging and complex characters.
⚠️ MILD SPOILERS BELOW ⚠️
The story begins with Gavin and his twin brother, Griffin Castleton, in love with the same woman, Charity, when they were just 19. Gavin was unaware of his brother's interest in her until Charity mistakenly called him by Griffin's name, revealing the betrayal of his brother and the woman he loved. I empathized with Gavin at that moment. Charity had been sleeping with both brothers, which I found distasteful. Charity chooses Griffin over Gavin, leaving him heartbroken and unable to bear their presence, so he flees.
Seven years later, Gavin has become the "King of the Pirates," a fierce and lawless man. Meanwhile, Griffin, who lost Charity and their son during childbirth, needs an heir. This is where Josephine "Josie" Greyville enters the picture. She is betrothed to Griffin, now a wealthy estate master, who would give her a respectable life. However, Josie yearns for freedom and adventure, rebelling against settling down.
When Gavin's ship mutinies off the coast of his home, he suffers a life-threatening wound and seeks out his brother for help. Instead of finding Griffin, he encounters Josephine, and their meeting leads to a thrilling pirate adventure.
✨ "... She let her own fire burn in her eyes. 'I belong to no man, only to myself.' His eyes darkened at her response, as though he was excited by her defiant challenge. 'Be careful, Josie. Never tell a pirate he can't have something,' Gavin warned. 'He'll be tempted to steal it.' " ✨
Devil of the High Seas is an alluring and immersive story, making readers feel as if they are sailing along with Gavin and Josie on the open seas. I enjoyed the witty and flirtatious banter between them and the undeniable chemistry they shared. Gavin supports Josie in fulfilling her dreams while her bravery and love help him overcome his personal struggles and grief. They are an inspiring couple and easy to root for!
I strongly recommend Devil of the High Seas to anyone looking for a thrilling and romantic read with delicious steam and a guaranteed happily ever after!
Multi POV Can be read as a standalone Prologue & Epilogue
Tropes: forced proximity, pirates, age gap, emotional scars, hurt/comfort, first-time heroine, possessive alpha male
Safety Spoilers:(view spoiler)[No cheating or sharing between MCs. Gavin is grieving the loss of Charity but there is no true OW drama. Gavin's ex-lover makes a few appearances but they are only friends - both have moved on. Josie is engaged to Griffin and they share a kiss but there is no true OM drama. MCs only have eyes for each other IMO! (hide spoiler)]
Content Warning:(view spoiler)[on-page sex, violence/death/murder (including child death and assault), kidnapping, cheating (not between MCs), arson, mentions of slavery. It's possible that I may have missed some things! (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily....more
I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to read Broken Captive by Amber Warden! This is the second book in the Gentle Sinners series and tells AlinaI am thrilled to have had the opportunity to read Broken Captive by Amber Warden! This is the second book in the Gentle Sinners series and tells Alina and Luka's story. It's a unique, suspenseful contemporary romance that kept me engaged throughout with its compelling story of survival, hope, and love.
This book opens with Alina, a young woman imprisoned in a compound where she is tortured and brutalized by her captor, whom Luka has been sent to assassinate. Luka has been trained from childhood to be ruthless and deadly, but he refuses to hurt women, so when he finds Alina brutalized, he rescues her. Alina has lost everything she has ever known and needs a protector. Luka is the last person anyone should look to for protection, but their shattered souls call to each other, and they find comfort in one another. However, it's not long before they find themselves in danger because there are people who will stop at nothing to make sure they don't survive together at all.
Alina and Luka are complex characters with heartbreaking backstories. I am so glad they found each other! I loved this story and its characters so much that I purposefully slowed my reading pace - I never wanted this story to end. It was also great to see Giovanni and Nera from the previous book in this series, Broken Protector . We are also introduced to Montrell, who will be featured in the next book, Broken Worth . I can't wait!
The only thing I felt was missing was an epilogue. I would have appreciated seeing the progression of Alina and Luka's relationship months or even years into the future.
I highly recommend Broken Captive to fans of dark mafia romance who enjoy slow-burning steam, morally gray cinnamon roll heroes, and a heroine who refuses to give up on the man she loves.
Dual POV Can be read as a standalone
Safety Spoilers / Content Warnings: (view spoiler)[ profanity, violence/murder/arson, flashbacks of assault/SA (h), child abuse/neglect/abandonment, mentions of suicide (side character), stalking, explicit sexual content (dub-con between MCs related to touch aversion and unconsented voyeurism).
No cheating or sharing. No OW/OM drama. Virgin H. (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily....more
Ruthless King is the first book in the Kings of Temptation series by Sienna Cross. It is a dark and steamy mafia romance that follows the story of SteRuthless King is the first book in the Kings of Temptation series by Sienna Cross. It is a dark and steamy mafia romance that follows the story of Stella Esposito McKenzie and Luca Valentino's second chance at love.
Luca Valentino, the 27-year-old CEO of King Industries, is both respected and ruthless. Despite his strikingly handsome appearance and pristine public image, he's a broken soul. Luca lives by strict rules to keep his love life uncomplicated, which are critical to his work. However, he soon finds himself breaking these rules for Stella.
Stella Esposito McKenzie is a 21-year-old college student taking care of her father. After getting her associate degree, she plans to attend the University of Florida. Stella dreams of sandy beaches, surfers, and most importantly, freedom from her alcoholic father, harassing ex-boyfriend, and the painful past that took away her mother and older brother. Unfortunately, her dream shatters when she discovers her father has sold her to the Kings to pay off his debts.
Although categorized as "dark romance," Stella and Luca's relationship is endearing. Luca is protective of Stella, even before realizing she's his best friend's little sister. Their past is complicated and untold secrets stand in the way of achieving their happy ending. I found this story to be cliché, but cliché in the best of ways!
If you're seeking an edgy captive romance with a feisty heroine and a damaged hero brought to his knees by the woman he loves, Ruthless King by Sienna Cross is the book for you!!
Dual POV Standalone
Safety Spoilers / Content Warning: (view spoiler)[profanity, on-page sex (no virgins), violence, death, physical assault (not between MCs), reference to childhood trauma/neglect/abuse, references to addiction & gambling, kidnapping, attempted SA & threats of a sex tape (not between MCs).
No cheating or sharing. H is a manwhore. Slight OW drama (H's ONS makes a few appearances). OM drama (h's ex-boyfriend tries to cause trouble). MCs are always respectful of each other IMO, and truly only have eyes for each other.
I enjoyed reading the Sinful Empire Duet by Eva Charles, which ends with Wrath. I was impressed by this novel's excellent character development, intenI enjoyed reading the Sinful Empire Duet by Eva Charles, which ends with Wrath. I was impressed by this novel's excellent character development, intense plot, and clever twists. This story has a bit of betrayal, redemption, and suspense wrapped up in an angsty love story. The book's darker themes were skillfully done, evoking a range of emotions as the story progressed.
I thought Rafael Huntsman's devotion to Lexie Clarke was admirable. Their interactions were brimming with desire and passion but also heartbreak because they weren't sure how to make things work between them. But love always finds a way, and eventually, they tame their inner demons and learn how to trust each other fully. For me, the best moments were when Rafael and Lexie were their most vulnerable. I enjoyed the tender touches and moments of epiphany. Of course, the passion and dirty talking were intoxicating too! Wrath is a satisfying ending to Rafael and Lexie's journey. I loved it!
The Sinful Empire Duet is a great story for anyone who loves romance novels with strong characters, sensuality, dangerous twists, and a happy ending that's well-earned.
Dual POV The Sinful Empire Duet: Pride and Wrath can be read independently of the other books in the series, including Greed , Lust , and Envy .
Tropes: second chance romance, age gap, dark mafia romance, anti-hero, heroine in danger
Safety Spoilers/Content Warning: (view spoiler)[profanity, childhood trauma, domestic violence, sex trafficking, gaslighting, and murder. I would consider this a "safe" read. (hide spoiler)]
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and Quarry Road Publishing for providing an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Lesson Learned by Layla Simon, follows the relationship between a student named Paisley and her English teacher, Conner. As someone who enjoys readingLesson Learned by Layla Simon, follows the relationship between a student named Paisley and her English teacher, Conner. As someone who enjoys reading dark romances, I prefer morally ambiguous villains over the nice guy, but this story surprised even me with its kinky shenanigans!
Conner is a member of a mafia family and is assigned to uncover secrets at Paisley's school while posing as the new English teacher. They first meet at a nightclub, sharing a moment of passion, and are later surprised to cross paths again in the classroom.
I was shocked to find myself liking Conner and Paisley; I even enjoyed their developing romance. I was eager to see how things would play out.
Layla Simon does an excellent job of pushing the boundaries of her readers. While this story is taboo and may make some readers uncomfortable with explicit scenes of dubious and non-consensual sex, you come to care for these flawed characters who are dealing with past trauma.
Lesson Learned is perfect for readers of dark romance who enjoy emotionally damaged protagonists with unconventional kink.
Dual POV Can be read as a standalone
Safety/Content SPOILERS: (view spoiler)[profanity, dub/non-con, somnophilia (h is drugged by H), swaddling, CNC, spanking, anal, coercive control, stupefying, SA, physical assault, and murder.
I consider this story "safe-ish" - H is a manwhore and mentions going on two dates after meeting the h but cannot follow through. Nothing happens with OW. Divorced H. No sharing. No virgins. No true OM drama - h is SA on-page by OM. Age gap - h is 17 y.o. upon meeting the H who is 26 y.o. (legal age of consent is 16). (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily....more
Alta Hensley's Wonderland takes readers on a crazed ride as they follow the romantic relationship between Nick Hudson and Lyriope Bailey.
Nick, known Alta Hensley's Wonderland takes readers on a crazed ride as they follow the romantic relationship between Nick Hudson and Lyriope Bailey.
Nick, known as the king of madness and ruler of Wonderland, becomes completely undone by Lyriope's presence. Meanwhile, Lyriope is a lonely young woman desperately seeking love and acceptance from her parents, who neglect and disregard her. Lyriope's compassion for her family leads her to borrow money from a dangerous underground family. Unfortunately, she doesn't have the means to pay back her debt. Nick sees an opportunity to offer her protection in exchange for a night of passion, which leads to further complications as the couple becomes increasingly infatuated with each other.
I enjoyed reading Alta Hensley's take on "Alice in Wonderland!" Hensley's Wonderland is intense and features unhinged main characters who are jealous and possessive of each other. I appreciated the darkness, the anticipation, the emotional pain, and the expressions of affection throughout. I was so CAPTIVATED when I began reading this story that I stayed awake until 4 in the morning! Tragically, my children had to make do with microwaved macaroni and cheese because I was utterly absorbed in Nick and Lyriope's love story.
Nick Hudson is a character that leaves an impression. He was unwavering in his commitment to Lyriope and wanted nothing more than to make her his queen. However, Nick's treatment of Lyriope at the beginning of their relationship was questionable, with scenes of dubious consent that raised my eyebrows. Despite this, I soon came to appreciate his vulnerability and character growth, and any initial concerns quickly dissipated. When it came to Lyriope, I found her to be a contradiction. Her words and actions didn't always align, which made it difficult for me to warm up to her. Although I never had a liking for her, I eventually realized that she possessed a similar level of eccentricity as the infamous Nick Hudson. They were a perfect match for each other!
If you enjoy reading dark and provocative love stories involving offbeat characters fighting for control amid a chaotic existence, then Wonderland would be an excellent book for you! I loved it!
Dual POV Safety Info/Content Warning: (view spoiler)[profanity, on-page sex (virgin h, anal sex, impact play, D/s, S&M, exhibitionism), violence/murder, disability representation (H), dub/non-con, discussions of past trauma involving suicide and child neglect, kidnapping. I would consider this a "safe" read - no cheating or sharing. No true OW/OM drama, MCs only have eyes for each other! (hide spoiler)]
Thank you to Alta Hensley, Dangerous Press, and Valentine PR for providing an advance copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own....more
Pretty Savage Boys is the third book I've read by this author and I am officially obsessed! Layla Simon's unconventional characters and intense plotliPretty Savage Boys is the third book I've read by this author and I am officially obsessed! Layla Simon's unconventional characters and intense plotlines push me out of my comfort zone, but the satisfying resolutions and happy endings make it all worth it.
Pretty Savage Boys is a must-read for fans of dark romance, edgy drama with sensuality and steam, and a touch of over-the-top elements. Trent and Rosa's story will quickly draw you in and keep you hooked!
The novel follows Rosa Fenn, an 18-year-old college student who works at a nearby brothel to support herself. She attends a party thrown by Trent Weybourne, also 18 and from a wealthy family, where she encounters a group of malicious young men—Trent steps in, and their relationship blossoms from there.
I was impressed by Rosa's strength and courage, especially given her traumatic past. What stood out to me was her willingness to be vulnerable despite all that she had been through. Trent had an interesting mix of moral ambiguity and innocence that I found captivating. When these two characters came together, their sweet-natured chemistry was undeniable and made for a compelling story.
Be prepared to stay up late reading! You will not want to put this book down.
Dual POV Can be read as a standalone within the Kings of McKenzie High series
Safety / Content Warning: (view spoiler)[profanity, scenes and references to child abuse/SA, dub-con, non-con, image abuse, physical assault, illegal surveillance, attempted SA, torture, murder, use of a tracker, on-page sex (no virgins).
Sadism (H), CNC, breath play, bondage/restraints, aftercare, condoms. No OW/OM drama. No cheating. The heroine is a sex worker, and there is a non-descriptive scene between her and a client before h/H are together. (hide spoiler)]
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily....more
I have eagerly awaited the story of Cillian Kildare, a dark avenging angel, and Una O'Conor, an innocent and fierce temptress.
It took me a few chapteI have eagerly awaited the story of Cillian Kildare, a dark avenging angel, and Una O'Conor, an innocent and fierce temptress.
It took me a few chapters to warm up to Cillian's harsh and punishing love, but eventually, his tenderness shines through. Jagger Cole did an excellent job demonstrating how Una's presence in Cillian's life transforms him and silences his inner demons. Cillian, in turn, becomes Una's unexpected protector, providing her with a safety net to fall upon, and helping her flourish and face her own demons. Together, these broken individuals find peace and solace in each other's chaotic souls. Their tale delves into complex topics but is handled well, with a satisfying resolution for these characters.
If you're in the mood for an intense dark mafia romance featuring unhinged protagonists who fight as hard as they love, I highly recommend picking up Vicious Hearts by Jagger Cole.
Dual POV - Cillian and Una Standalone
Tropes: dark mafia, enemies to lovers, villainous hero, age gap, marriage contract, found family, "hurt her and I'll unalive you" vibes
Safety Info / TW: (view spoiler)[profanity, on-page sex (virgin h), psychopath hero, CSA, self-harm, suicide, addiction, cigarette smoking. CNC, sadomasochism, praise kink, breath play, knife play. No cheating or sharing. No ow/om drama. Playlist. HEA with Epilogue. (hide spoiler)]...more