This is a pretty twisted read, which is exactly what this author is known for. However, this time it’s not just the twist at the end but the characterThis is a pretty twisted read, which is exactly what this author is known for. However, this time it’s not just the twist at the end but the characters themselves that are all kinds of messed up. This story has some pretty dark notes to it even as it’s laced with plenty of sex. The characters are well developed and the plot was definitely original. With an ending that I loved, this book ended up being quite a surprise.
Multi POV Safe (view spoiler)[om is h’s ex and he definitely causes all kinds of drama (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[plans of suicide; rape of a 12 yr old; rape; h’s husband gave her to his men as well as his father to have sex with her – her wedding night he had all his men have sex with her (hide spoiler)]
Merged review:
This is a pretty twisted read, which is exactly what this author is known for. However, this time it’s not just the twist at the end but the characters themselves that are all kinds of messed up. This story has some pretty dark notes to it even as it’s laced with plenty of sex. The characters are well developed and the plot was definitely original. With an ending that I loved, this book ended up being quite a surprise.
Multi POV Safe (view spoiler)[om is h’s ex and he definitely causes all kinds of drama (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[plans of suicide; rape of a 12 yr old; rape; h’s husband gave her to his men as well as his father to have sex with her – her wedding night he had all his men have sex with her (hide spoiler)]...more
Holy freakin’ Hades!!! This book! There are just no words! This book stirred up so many emotions then one by one plucked them from their hiding placesHoly freakin’ Hades!!! This book! There are just no words! This book stirred up so many emotions then one by one plucked them from their hiding places and flung them out in front of me to face them in all their messy glory. It was a painfully beautiful journey and I swear to any and all entities that I will never forget this amazing story!
My suggestion is to avoid reviews that give too much away. While it’s not a matter of constant twists and turns, the best part of this book is never knowing what’s going to happen next. Just settle back and let this author introduce you to her characters. They are incredible. Broken and imperfect but exactly what they needed to be to face their inner demons. Then be prepared to hold on emotionally as she takes you on a ride through a desperate and desolate plain where there is no hope to be found at its conclusion. Even the sparks of promise you glimpse along the way will always be overshadowed by the despair these characters live with.
This is a wonderfully written story full of depth. The angst is off the charts, the romance a welcome reprieve in the darkness and the secondary characters gaining a place in my heart without consuming the story. There are not enough stars for this book and I’m already feeling the mega book hangover Crazy Madly Deeply is going to leave me with.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safety (view spoiler)[Although this couple have known each other almost all their lives they never get together due to the social divider between them. Therefore, they are both involved with others. Once together they are solid. A bit of ow drama in that H is having a casual affair with a woman. He is not a man whore. He is respectful of women. Heroine’s boyfriend is a douche so there is a time or two where we see what he makes her do for him. OM drama is more about the two men being enemies than anything to do with the heroine. (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[drugs; date rape; date rape drugs; physical abuse; mental health issues (hide spoiler)]
Merged review:
Holy freakin’ Hades!!! This book! There are just no words! This book stirred up so many emotions then one by one plucked them from their hiding places and flung them out in front of me to face them in all their messy glory. It was a painfully beautiful journey and I swear to any and all entities that I will never forget this amazing story!
My suggestion is to avoid reviews that give too much away. While it’s not a matter of constant twists and turns, the best part of this book is never knowing what’s going to happen next. Just settle back and let this author introduce you to her characters. They are incredible. Broken and imperfect but exactly what they needed to be to face their inner demons. Then be prepared to hold on emotionally as she takes you on a ride through a desperate and desolate plain where there is no hope to be found at its conclusion. Even the sparks of promise you glimpse along the way will always be overshadowed by the despair these characters live with.
This is a wonderfully written story full of depth. The angst is off the charts, the romance a welcome reprieve in the darkness and the secondary characters gaining a place in my heart without consuming the story. There are not enough stars for this book and I’m already feeling the mega book hangover Crazy Madly Deeply is going to leave me with.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safety (view spoiler)[Although this couple have known each other almost all their lives they never get together due to the social divider between them. Therefore, they are both involved with others. Once together they are solid. A bit of ow drama in that H is having a casual affair with a woman. He is not a man whore. He is respectful of women. Heroine’s boyfriend is a douche so there is a time or two where we see what he makes her do for him. OM drama is more about the two men being enemies than anything to do with the heroine. (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[drugs; date rape; date rape drugs; physical abuse; mental health issues (hide spoiler)]...more
I didn’t know what to expect when I went into this one. I was looking for something different and I certainly got that. After the first couple of chapI didn’t know what to expect when I went into this one. I was looking for something different and I certainly got that. After the first couple of chapters it felt as though I might have made a mistake but after giving it some more time, I was surprised and pleased by how much I ended up really enjoying this dark fantasy.
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This was very well written and rather than pulling me into a lot of world building, this gave me some amazing characters. That was the initial hook for me before quickly becoming the storyline itself. This required a plot that could support such multi-layered characters and as the end grew closer, I began to worry it would leave me wanting. It did not. Once more it gave me something more than I was expecting.
While I didn’t love this one, it’s a story that will remain with me in the future rather than being dismissed as one of many.
Multi POV Not a romance Filled with triggers ...more
’She didn’t hesitate to take my arm. It was as simple as that - and it was the moment her bright future vanished before her unseeing eyes.’
I don’t ’She didn’t hesitate to take my arm. It was as simple as that - and it was the moment her bright future vanished before her unseeing eyes.’
I don’t even have the words to describe this book. It’s DARK. It’s violent and raw. It had me cringing and wanting to look away. It also has two of the most well written characters I’ve ever come across. Did I like Aiden? Heck no! But I was morbidly fascinated to see what would happen to him and to Rebecca. And now that I know? I have to admit, I want to see how the rest of the story unfolds.
This does not end on a cliffhanger, but it is my understanding that there are additional books in the series and at least one of them is a continuation of Rebbeca and Aiden.
’This wasn’t about love or companionship or warmth. No. This was something darker - more primal and raw.’
Extreme warning: this contains all kinds of triggers. If you are even the slightest bit sensitive, stay away.
This narrator continues to do an excellent job with the wide variety of characters that exist in Virgin River. I Audiobook: Narrator - Therese Plummer
This narrator continues to do an excellent job with the wide variety of characters that exist in Virgin River. I am totally taken with her performance as both male and female and the fact that there are so many different characters and she gives them all distinctive voices.
It’s totally official! I’m a die hard Virgin River fan! I struggled some with Mel and Jack horning in on Preacher and Paige’s story in Shelter Mountain, but it’s evident to me that Mel and Jack are at the heart of this series. Therefore, I’m going to try to let go of my greedy need for all or nothing because nothing really isn’t an option here.
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This book really takes us on an emotional ride that will shatter your heart on so many different levels. I didn’t realize how much I was falling in love with these characters, even the ones that have just been on the peripheral of the story.
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While things always tend to take a turn towards the cute, witty and sexy with these heroes and heroines, there is always something darker lurking around the corner to threaten upheaval in someone’s life. Such is the case here and there are several someones who are being affected. If you have triggers, you will want to check against them on this read.
I absolutely loved everything dark and scary, light and carefree about this installment of the series. I laughed, I cried, I wanted to commit homicide, and I fell in love with all of these amazing people one more time.
Listened via Audible Escape
Multi POV Safe (view spoiler)[h/H have known each other for years - h was married and now divorced; no ow drama; om is h’s ex-husband who wants her back - he does not cause drama between h/H; H was a manwhore until he was in a shooting that has left him recovering about a year ago (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[this deals with rape pretty heavily - violent/attack rape that is somewhat described in court by the h - date rape/drugged date rape - several as in a serial date rapist; death by breast cancer; death of a soldier (hide spoiler)] ...more
Another enjoyable audio by Ms. Grant. She really does a nice job of these characters. This being the second book of tAudiobook: Narrator – Grace Grant
Another enjoyable audio by Ms. Grant. She really does a nice job of these characters. This being the second book of the series that she’s narrated as well as back to back listens, I’ve come to attach her voice to Sara. Accented voice of Ricco was a little rough but otherwise I didn’t have any issues with her performance.
Things really get deep and heavy both between Sara and Chris as well as the mystery of Rebecca.
As this couple grow closer and begin to delve deeper into their pasts they begin to work together to find out what happened to Rebecca. Along the way, Sara begins to fear for her friend Ella as well and this adds additional suspense to the story. She also finds Chris dealing with heartache in way that almost breaks her. It causes some additional angst as well as an insight into how deeply tormented he really is. I would have liked her to have made him grovel more but I can't say their making up wasn't super hot.
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This ends in another cliffhanger but holy heck, it’s got me needy for what the future holds. With a great pace and the addition of secondary characters that will have you second guessing who could be behind Rebecca’s journal, this is an amazing read/listen.
Heroine POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow drama; while the h has an intense reaction to om who is a dominant – it really isn’t sexual; two men come on to h for a menage type of thing – H interrupts it but h was never going to go there (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[rape – h shared the story but it’s not on page and there are no gritty details (hide spoiler)] ...more
Holy heck! This author is killing me with these cliffhangers. I need answers ASAP!
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This picks up exactly where One Man ends. The tension is highHoly heck! This author is killing me with these cliffhangers. I need answers ASAP!
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This picks up exactly where One Man ends. The tension is high, the horror Emma experiences is real, and danger is a shadow threatening her at every turn. As Jax and her attempt to find solutions and answers, that only lead to more questions, they are struggling to hold tight to their new relationship.
’We are traveling on this path between families together, a path with history we do not know or understand, but everything between us isn’t about the path. It’s about the many paths we’ve traveled separate and apart of the one that presents itself in the here and now.’
I absolutely love Emma and the sheer strength of will she holds within her as she has overcome so much in her life. And once she is all in with Jax, she must then make a heartbreaking decision that might result in her removing herself from his life forever. It was soul wrenching and the reason was a nightmare of epic proportions. My respect for her grew throughout this story as her secrets are slowly revealed.
’I choose right now to believe he will be the best thing that ever happened to me. Because he feels like more than a lover. He feels like a best friend I’m just getting to know. The kind of best friend a girl could fall in love with.’
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Jax is absolute perfection. Despite the past that threatens to tear Emma and him apart, he is determined to hold fast to her. Living a current Romeo and Juliet story, he refuses to let her go, even if one of their biggest concerns ends up being true and her family really is responsible for his brother’s death.
’”I have always been a man who goes for what he wants, who fights until I’m bloody, but bloody doesn’t mean I lose. It means I can take the pain if it means we win. Watch and see.”’
At each turn of the page we are given answers that lead to more questions. Some are shocking and some will leave you looking around every corner for who the true villain is. At the heart of the mystery is the burgeoning love between Jax and Emma. What they have sizzles across every page, made more intense by Jax’s desire to protect her at every cost. I love the way this author integrates incredible suspense and intrigue with romance that causes your heart to boom.
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This story kept me engaged from beginning to end with a pace that, while not action filled, had enough emotional conflict I didn’t want to skim a word. Secondary characters range from our favorite Walker Security expert, Savage, to family, friends and employees – any of who could be the cause of Jax’s brother’s death. With another cliffhanger that has me snarling, I wanted to throw my kindle. I knew it was going to end in a cliffie, but holy heck, this author knows how to grab you and keep you, ensuring you’ll want to read the next addition to the series.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow drama; om drama comes in the form of h’s ex fiancée who doesn’t necessarily want her back, but is threatening her; h not a virgin; H not a manwhore (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[gang rape while h was drugged – not on page but shared by h – no details and nothing graphic although she has a bit of a flashback (hide spoiler)]...more
I love the way this author writes heroes! The icing on her already delicious cake is a heroine that is just as wonderful. Sergei and Evette were awesoI love the way this author writes heroes! The icing on her already delicious cake is a heroine that is just as wonderful. Sergei and Evette were awesome individually and together. Add a seven year old boy, and a Cinderella type feel to the story and this book was a winner!
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Evette dealt with life’s harsher realities by losing herself in wild actions which resulted in an unplanned pregnancy. Since then, she’s buckled down and even if she’s not living her dreams, she’s determined to give her son stability in every area of his life. That determination is what motivates her to approach Sergei Petrovyh, the boss of the local bratva and a man that catches her eye each time he’s in her vicinity.
Sergei is expecting her to request a loan so when she asks if he can direct her to a job, he’s thrown off course. For just a moment. Because within the next heartbeat he’s crossing every line he mentally drew when it comes to the neighborhood’s darling.
”Much as he’d honor and savor the touch of someone so light and good, the darkness in him was too thick. Weighted with too many bodies and tainted with too much blood to be worthy of such a gift.”
He’s been watching her for a while and has battled his own desires but when she takes a deliberate step into his life he’s going to run with it. He intends to keep his distance, but when her sun shines even brighter in his darkness, he’s staking his claim.
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Evette was a wonderful heroine with her fierce independence, her loyalty, her parenting habits and her ability to evolve when it came to Sergei’s darkness. She lands in a bit of drama that pertains to Sergei’s business but instead of trying to keep it a secret, she does the adult thing and communicates with him. There was never a too stupid moment although it could have easily gone that way. I loved that that wasn’t her way of dealing with things. She was always up front and honest, especially with herself.
As for Sergei, he won me from his very first appearance in the book. The fact that his every thought and action was affected by Evette and Emerson’s presence in his life made me love him all the more. His tender regard, insight into what each was feeling, and total “mine” attitude when it came to both of them skyrocketed him to perfect book boyfriend status. I loved each time we had his point of view because it cemented what his actions and comments highlighted…Evette and her son were his everything. And he shows it non-stop. Swoon. He was freaking amazing!
”If we continue on as we were, people might misinterpret your place. Today, we are making it clear to everyone and anyone who might be interested exactly what that place is.”
“Well, would you mind telling me? Because things are a little hazy from where I’m standing.”
His demeanor shifted in a second, the amusement and patience he’d shown swept away in the space of one gasp as he cupped the back of her head and tugged her flush against him. “Mine.”
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This has a great pace to it, slow on action despite the bratva life, heavy on possible danger, sizzling in the chemistry department, and perfection when it came to the epilogue. The secondary characters were just as wonderful as the hero and heroine and they added so much richness to the story without ever stealing the show. I cannot wait to get more in this series!
Highly recommending this one to anyone who enjoys bratva/mafia tropes without the dark, heavy feel that can sometimes overshadow the romance contained within.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow/om drama; h not virgin; H not manwhore (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[h was drugged and raped – she thought she had gotten drunk and passed out, was aware her body was sore and must have hooked up with someone – none of it on page, no fine details (hide spoiler)] ...more
Oh my gosh! What a heartbreakingly beautiful story! There is no doubt this author poured her heart and soul into this book and I felt it in every wordOh my gosh! What a heartbreakingly beautiful story! There is no doubt this author poured her heart and soul into this book and I felt it in every word.
This begins with a very intense, dark moment in Alexandra Lane’s life. A moment that changes her forever. And while it leaves devastation in its wake, it is also the event that leads her to suggest marriage to the Terror of Torcliff, Piers Atherton the Duke of Redmayne.
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Scarred, arrogant and a bit of a barbarian, rumors abound concerning Piers.
”Whatever lurked in his blood, whether the Viking warrior, the fabled were beast, or fearsome demon, it was undeniable that something sinister and sinful rippled beneath the ducal bearing. Something ferocious and ancient that might have earned him a pagan’s grave upon a day. He did not belong in the age of gentility.”
Even as he embraces the privacy the title of monster gives him, in his heart he’s lonely. When an incident at the train station brings a young woman into his life, he fantasizes about what a simple life with her would look like. And then he sees her again. But she is not a simple villager’s wife, she is his fiancée’s best friend.
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This was an absolutely amazing read! Once started I could not put it down! I immediately felt a connection to Alexandra, my heart torn to shreds at what happened to her, at how she was forced to deal with it, and how she carried the burden every day.
”Sometimes, though, I fear the weight of my sins will pull me into the abyss. I hope if God exists, if we are to stand judgment, that justice is more compassion than vengeance.”
I loved this heroine. Despite being broken, she was so strong. She had to be to continue on. But she doesn’t just flounder through life, she bulldozes it down by becoming one of among a few female archeologist in her time, and a highly sought after one at that. Watching her grow, as well as learning to overcome her fears and to embrace hope, was so perfectly beautiful. I’m all about the hero, but Alexandra and her quiet strength, innate sense of loyalty, and courage moved her into a top favorite heroine.
There is no denying that Piers is the type of hero I look for. He has his own issues to deal with but in spite of their problems he was always protective and possessive.
If Alexandra were ripening with child, every man who’d dare to look upon her would know he’d put it there. Would understand she was taken. Claimed.”
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I have never read a scene like the one where Piers learns the truth of Alexandra’s past. He was devastated and this author allowed him free reign to react as only the Terror of Torcliff could.
”A Redmayne’s revenge was slow. It would be wet. It would be messy. Methodical. And ultimately lethal.”
I raged and cried for both Alexandra and him. This scene is reason alone to read this book. As I said, heartbreakingly beautiful.
”Reaching, but not touching. Aching, but not speaking. Because language hadn’t yet invented words for this sort of pain, and therefore neither had it words for comfort.”
Together, Piers and Alexandra were imperfectly perfect! Their chemistry sizzles, their banter is engaging, and their emotions are constantly evolving into something more. I’m not sure I’ve ever read a hero and heroine who deserve a happy ever after more than this couple.
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There are layers upon layers within the pages of this book and with each new layer I fell further into this world and these characters. This is a high angst read, filled with drama, danger and mystery. It is also interlaced with wit and fun as well as secondary characters that add a richness to the overall story. I cannot wait to get the next book in this series.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and St. Martin's Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[h not a virgin; H celibate; H’s family had contracted signed with his fiancée’s family so this is not a love match and he isn’t attracted to her no her him – they never even touch and this causes no drama between anyone; ow drama is from a fiancée he had prior to the accident that scarred him – she is married to H’s cousin now and makes a move on him but he quickly puts her in her place after a bit of a showdown in his room where she enters his room while the h is there – a bit sticky but within a few pages everything is worked out; om drama is a man the h worked with on sites who appears to be attracted to her – causes some jealous moments within the H (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[h was raped – on page (hide spoiler)]...more
I knew going in this was a darker read. I don’t mind dark, if the characters are still relatable in some way. However, I never felt a connection with I knew going in this was a darker read. I don’t mind dark, if the characters are still relatable in some way. However, I never felt a connection with Lev. There was nothing redeeming about him. He goes straight at Elin with brute force, expecting her total submission but never gaining her trust. Okay, I can still handle that to a degree, but as the story moves along, we never see what Elin could love about him. Perhaps due to the length, we’re not given that chance, but there were definitely scenes that could have been omitted or shortened and replaced with something to show that this hero was likable.
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As for the heroine, I felt bad for her. She was a much more developed character than the hero, and I actually loved how she fought at the end. I didn’t feel as though her reactions to Lev and his brutality was out of character. She certainly did roll over for him, which I admired her for as she barely knew him. However, that made it even more difficult to accept the hero.
Disappointed by the lack of connection I had to this hero, but glad that Kindle Unlimited allows me to try new to me authors.
Holy Hades! This was one heck of a mind trip! I’m not sure there is any coming back from this crazy, insane, twisted journey this author just took me Holy Hades! This was one heck of a mind trip! I’m not sure there is any coming back from this crazy, insane, twisted journey this author just took me on.
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How do you even begin to review a book that has literally held you on the edge of your seat for HOURS, all while feeling like you’ve been shaken repeatedly, given a slight reprieve, only to be yanked up and tossed again?
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From the very first page, every word draws a clear and precise picture of uncertainty, fear, and terror as we follow the story of a woman running from her abusive husband. Using one brush stroke at a time, this author paints a picture so horrendous it’s inconceivable. And yet, the story is never unbelievable. It is in fact, very believable, which only adds another layer of horror to an already intensely suspenseful book.
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I was never sure how much of what the heroine was experiencing was truth, normal fear anyone might feel, a wild imagination, or paranoia born of insanity. Whichever way, there is never a doubt that she believes she has reason to fear and the suspense only builds higher and higher due to being inside her every thought. Her mind at times emotionally exhausted me due to her concerns but more often than not, frightened me because of what might really be in the dark.
”I feel for the blade under my pillow, hoping it someday won’t be used as a weapon against me. Having it there terrifies me. Being without it isn’t an option.”
There are so many frightening moments inside this heroines mind, but to be honest after the 3% mark, I was so consumed by this story that I was unable to pull myself out long enough to highlight the truly horrific thoughts. I’m telling you, this book is going to suck you in and everything around you will come to a screeching halt.
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Be sure you go into this one blind. Stay away from reviews that are going to give details of the story you’re about to dive into. You should also be prepared for an all-nighter if you start this one later in the day and above all, have a support system ready for when you’ve completed it. You’re going to need it.
Multi POV Safe: For my romance buddies: while this has a tiny bit of romance, this is not romance Triggers (view spoiler)[heavy domestic abuse, on page; miscarriage on page; suicide/thoughts of suicide (hide spoiler)]
I swear by all that is holy that this narrator is the absolute BEST for this series as well as the other series lo Audiobook: Narrator - Kristen Potter
I swear by all that is holy that this narrator is the absolute BEST for this series as well as the other series located in Scotland. I can’t recommend her or this author’s highland series enough. They were made for each other!
Wow! This story just about broke my heart in two. I remember reading this one years ago and not really enjoying it that much. The only reason I can think of is that I was spoiled by all the Scotland magic I was reading at the time. Too much of anything can become tainted to some degree. With time and distance I realized that I actually loved this story.
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This was so angsty, with such a damaged heroine and the beautiful, perfect hero that stood up for her. I swear I wanted to weep at the injustices done to Genevieve. But holy heck, was Bowen just too wonderful! His absolute resolution and determination to protect her from the harsh words and actions hurled at her was the kind of thing I love to see in my heroes.
I don’t want to give anything away, but the steps that are taken to bring about Genevieve’s happiness were actually soul destroying to me! Read/listen and you’ll know why. I love a selfless hero! This is definitely filled with angst, drama, wit, and romance. Highly recommend!
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow drama although other women do taunt her and bully her they are not the H’s past lovers; h is not a virgin; H is a bit of a player (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[rape - not on page; attempted rape - on page; abuse - verbal/physical (hide spoiler)] ...more
Oh my gosh and holy heck! This book had me wrapped in its clutches from the first page until the last! And I never wanted it to end.
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Six years aOh my gosh and holy heck! This book had me wrapped in its clutches from the first page until the last! And I never wanted it to end.
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Six years ago a poor young Damian attended a dinner party, met a beautiful young girl he would never forget, and ended up in prison for six years. Now he’s out to not only regain what was stolen from him, but for revenge. As part of his plan, he forces that young woman into marriage, a marriage where he will remain in complete control of every legal decision on her behalf and complete control of her body.
”You married me for money and sex. If you have both, why not let me go? What more could you possibly want?” “For you to need me like food and water.”
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Lina remembers that young boy from six years ago. He would be impossible to forget. But her life suddenly went from merely being unwanted to being very complicated. That tends to happen when you’re announced as incompetent, crazy, and suicidal. Now that young boy has returned but in his place is a cold, hard man and his demands might actually help her to find the one thing that means more to her than anything ever has or ever will.
Gah! I absolutely loved Damian and Lina. Damian is a dark, dangerous hero with some serious possessive tendencies. Jealous, protective, “mine” mentality? Check, check and CHECK!
”How does one put obsession in words? How do I look her in the eyes and confess that I’ll hunt her to the end of her days? I’ll never set her free…”
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He also derives desire from inflicting pain and while his methods in that area with Lina were absolutely sizzling there were times that I was uncomfortable. But then again, so was Lina. Neither one of these characters trust freely, if at all, and this type of sexual relationship requires a huge amount of trust.
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My heart hurt for Lina, for all she had survived. But my gawd, the girl was strong, resilient and determined. Even as life beat her down, even as her husband spread his darkness across her skin, and even as her freedom always remained out of her reach, she never gave up. She wasn’t your usual kick@$$ heroine. Her strength was not in her muscles or fighting abilities, it was in her determination to throw off her mantel of “crazy” as well as to find that one bit of information she so desperately needed.
The chemistry between Damian and Lina was true and honest upon their first meeting. The next time, things take a more dangerous turn. From that point onward their relationship was constantly shifting and evolving, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse. While Damian did some things that I found hard to accept, there is no doubt that “the grovel” was real even if presented in a different style than what we’re used to reading. I LOVED his method because as much as he adored and loved and couldn’t live without Lina, he ultimately wanted her happiness. Sigh and Swoon – after the angst fest of course.
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I’m totally recommending this to anyone who likes a little dark with their romance, a heroine who has some serious past baggage, and a hero who will do just about anything to keep her.
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no ow drama; om drama comes in the form of a man who is in love with the hero; h is not a virgin; H has been celibate since he met h (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[rape - no details on page; abuse; violence; no child molestation; the following spoiler is a trigger for those who have something other than what is listed – this is a big spoiler (view spoiler)[loss of child at 8 months pregnancy (hide spoiler)](hide spoiler)] ...more
Wow! This book has everything! I’m not sure when I read something that kept me so captivated and involved as this one did.
Savannah’s past is always prWow! This book has everything! I’m not sure when I read something that kept me so captivated and involved as this one did.
Savannah’s past is always present in her everyday life. Dating is difficult but when Liam persists, she gives in to her own desire to know him better. Unfortunately, that same past that has held her in its grip also keeps her from seeking more intimacy.
While Liam has his own secrets, he realizes that whatever is holding Savannah back carries more weight. Despite their moving forward at a pace that she can accept, he struggles with the knowledge that she refuses to share her history with him.
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Both Liam and Savannah were so well developed that I felt as though I knew them personally. Savannah had survived the fire of her past but was determined to never leave herself vulnerable again. She was strong, fierce and independent. And so very set on her own vow of retribution for her past. Liam was laid back and all around family guy with great friends. He had made mistakes in his past but had grown stronger due to overcoming them and moving forward.
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I absolutely loved watching these two together. There is such a sweet romantic feel to them meeting, getting to know one another and moving forward, even if a bit limitedly, into a physical relationship. I really enjoy being able to watch a couple just be together, and we get plenty of that goodness here.
When things start to heat up for this couple, it really heats up. There was so much tension, drama and action that I was literally shredding my fingernails. Dang! This author knows how to string you out with the action sequences. I loved it!
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While this doesn’t have a fast pace, it doesn’t plod along either. Every word is necessary and every character relevant. And holy heck, I can’t wait to read more about these secondary characters. The steam level is definitely high and the chemistry between Liam and Savannah was believable from the very first moment.
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This is definitely a read I will be recommending to anyone who enjoys their romance with characters that carry a dark past. One warning, be sure you are able to handle triggers and if so...grab this one immediately!
Dual POV Safe (view spoiler)[no cheating; once they meet there is no one else; ow tries to come onto H but he rejects her but h saw and doubts him – during a mild breakup – as soon as he explains to her what happened she believes and it doesn’t cause any drama other than just a blip of insecurity for the h; om causes a ton of drama and is the villain (hide spoiler)] Triggers(view spoiler)[rape; extreme violence – villain against h; these triggers are all on page and shared in vivid detail (hide spoiler)]...more
Holy heck! How do you even begin to review a book like this? I’ve read a lot of books and many of them have been dark and disturbing, but his one…justHoly heck! How do you even begin to review a book like this? I’ve read a lot of books and many of them have been dark and disturbing, but his one…just, holy heck! Every book I’ve read by this author surprises me and I swore I wasn’t going to let her twist me up this time around. Uh, I’m the fool. She got me. Again.
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First, let me say to try to avoid any reviews that go into a lot of detail about this story. The way it slowly opens up and reveals itself is part of the overall experience that you won’t want to miss. It’s written from two different points of view. Justin, the victim advocate who has been assigned to determine if the woman who he’s interviewing is capable of the crimes the police are investigating, and Rainey who is the sole survivor of a “rampage style murder” where four people were bludgeoned to death.
While the weight of this book rests on Rainey’s past, she was broken long before her story actually begins here. You may find yourself empathizing with her. You may cry. You may sneer. You may judge. However, through it all…you will feel.
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This is a dark story on the lighter side but with many disturbing scenes and actions. It is not a safe read. It has triggers galore. And if you can handle that, you’re in for the ride of your life.
Audiobook: I enjoyed the narration by both these narrators. They really brought this story to life for me. There are several different characters and Audiobook: I enjoyed the narration by both these narrators. They really brought this story to life for me. There are several different characters and their performance of them were very nice with the exception of one male character performed by Ms.Rae. I was completely immersed into this fascinating world created by Ms. Zaiares and voice by Ms. Rae and Mr. Scarlato.
Capture Me:
This was a fast ride into some dark territory. The heroine grew up with darkness, lives her life in darkness and has now become responsible for an event that is going to pull her even further into it. I enjoyed both the hero and heroine. More so than I did than those in the first series, Twist Me. The hero was completely consumed with having her and keeping her. He was jealous and possessive, There were a few moments were things were a bit dubious but I felt it was less so here than in TM.
Bind Me:
Things really heat up here when Lucas finally has possession of Yulia. This is where things tend to get a bit sketchy in regards to dubious consent. There are layers upon layers being revealed as the story moves forward even as it begins to build upon itself. I’m not sure I can even predict where this is going to go.
Claim Me:
Loved this conclusion to the series. It was so fast paced and action filled with plenty of steam. It kept me guessing from the beginning onwards. I wasn’t sure how this couple were ever going to find their happy ever after or even if they did what it was going to look like. I was very pleased with where and how the author took this story. The ending made all the tragedy getting to it worthwhile.
Audiobook: I enjoyed the narration by both these narrators. They really brought this story to life for me. There are several different characters and Audiobook: I enjoyed the narration by both these narrators. They really brought this story to life for me. There are several different characters and their performance of them were very nice with the exception of one male character performed by Ms.Rae. I was completely immersed into this fascinating world created by Ms. Zaiares and voice by Ms. Rae and Mr. Scarlato.
Things really heat up here when Lucas finally has possession of Yulia. This is where things tend to get a bit sketchy in regards to dubious consent. There are layers upon layers being revealed as the story moves forward even as it begins to build upon itself. I’m not sure I can even predict where this is going to go.
Audiobook: I enjoyed the narration by both these narrators. They really brought this story to life for me. There are several different characters and Audiobook: I enjoyed the narration by both these narrators. They really brought this story to life for me. There are several different characters and their performance of them were very nice with the exception of one male character performed by Ms.Rae. I was completely immersed into this fascinating world created by Ms. Zaiares and voice by Ms. Rae and Mr. Scarlato.
This was a fast ride into some dark territory. The heroine grew up with darkness, lives her life in darkness and has now become responsible for an event that is going to pull her even further into it. I enjoyed both the hero and heroine. More so than I did than those in the first series, Twist Me. The hero was completely consumed with having her and keeping her. He was jealous and possessive, There were a few moments were things were a bit dubious but I felt it was less so here than in TM.
Oh my gosh! I loved this book! Despite that ending, or maybe because of it.
Naz has been hired to keep an eye on a rich man’s spoiled wife but when shOh my gosh! I loved this book! Despite that ending, or maybe because of it.
Naz has been hired to keep an eye on a rich man’s spoiled wife but when she gets herself into some trouble, he has to step in. Within no time at all he realizes she isn’t everything the client described her to be. And before he knows it, he’s crossing boundaries he warned himself to stay away from. And Eva is eagerly waiting for him on the other side.
He inhales deeply, then lets it all out in a gust. “It’s how men are supposed to be. Unfortuntaely, a lot of them don’t know the difference between protective and possessive, which is why you have so many a$$holes in the world.” I close my eyes and sit very still, basking in that statement. And in him, this beautiful man who is single-handedly redefining the word MASCULINE for me.
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Eva has some deep, dark secrets. Secrets that will break your heart. But she’s living her life now, enjoying every day for what it’s worth even as she keeps one eye over her shoulder. When Naz enters into her life, she’s reluctant to share anything about herself. When they keep running into each other she slowly opens herself up.
I love how she wears her heart on her sleeve and doesn’t pretend to be tough. She isn’t tough. She’s strong, but not tough. She’s obviously capable and independent and whip smart, but she’s also vulnerable. Sweet. Soft.
This couple were so freaking cute and fun and sexy and just perfect! I absolutely loved their banter and back and forth insults that were light hearted and hilarious. Naz knew just how to defuse any moment that became too heavy with Eva and I loved him for his sensitivity.
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This book has a relatively low angst despite what each couple are dealing with. The pace is fast and so engaging that I hated each time I had to close the book to deal with real life. With a slow burn, the steam was still extreme and there is never a doubt as to the chemistry between Eva and Naz.
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I knew going in it was going to be a cliffhanger and while I hate them, I could tell this couple need more than just one book to do what needs to be done. But the worse thing about a cliffy, is the waiting…sigh.
What an awesome read! I’ve only read a handful or less of post-apocalyptic books and I’ve enjoyed each of them but this one was incredible!
Talen is thWhat an awesome read! I’ve only read a handful or less of post-apocalyptic books and I’ve enjoyed each of them but this one was incredible!
Talen is the sweetest, kindest hero I think I’ve ever read. He does have a dark streak that runs through him but he struggles against it to the point that you know that isn’t his heart. His soul survival is to provide for the people he’s adopted into his life and the community that he calls home. On one hand he was a bit naïve and on the other he’s fierce and determined. I’ve never met another hero like him and I loved him completely!
Aerin is his perfect companion when it comes to executing a plan. She has the capacity to think things through and make a plan that works. The fact that she tended to take the lead was a novelty to me but it didn’t hinder my enjoyment at all. In fact, I adored the way they complemented each other and worked together.
While this one didn’t have a mind boggling twist to it, it did have enough surprises and action to keep me turning the pages as quickly as I could. The world Ms. Savage created felt very real and it wasn’t too difficult to imagine myself in it. I wouldn’t do well. This does have a political bent to it and I know some readers are going to take exception to it, but I understood the “moral of the story” and accepted it for what it was and will keep my own opinions to myself.
This isn’t a short book, and there’s a lot of information and introspection, but I found it to be evenly paced and never felt bogged down and I never skimmed. I didn’t want to miss a minute of what was going on with this couple. Secondary characters were just as well developed as the hero and heroine but never took over the story. While I didn’t necessarily feel a lot of chemistry between this couple due to having only Talen’s point of view, I was convinced of Talen’s desire and his feelings towards Aerin. And the steam during the smexy times was pretty intense.
Overall, this was a great read that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys post-apocalyptic romances.
Hero POV Safe (view spoiler)[H is a virgin; h is not a virgin; no om drama; H has a friend who h has a moment of jealousy over but it is quickly dealt with and doesn’t cause any real drama (hide spoiler)] Triggers (view spoiler)[ genocide; violence; secondary character raped but not on page (hide spoiler)] ...more