Reads & Reviews's Reviews > The Beloved

It’s been just about a year since JR Ward’s Lassiter hit readers’ hands with shock and awe (and just a little bit of “what did I just read?”). No fear, The Beloved is here and Ward has delivered on promises across the board. The 33-year gap was handled with Ward’s typical flair and depth of insight to her characters that had me turning pages as fast as I could. For me, I felt the time jump but the story flowed organically. More importantly, Brothers that have taken a back seat more recently filled the pages and it was a wonderful reunion.

Nalla and Nate fit together perfectly and their story reflects her parents’ story, while at the same time feeling fresh and new. I loved both these characters as they matured into adulthood while still carrying the weight of their childhood experiences. Truthfully, I relished the scenes between all the young-now adults-pushing back at their parents as they make their own way in the world. It is so well done and gives readers new insight into the characters we have grown to love over the last 20 years. There is one scene between Zsadist and V that may be my all-time favorite scene in the entire series, yet at the same time the newer fighters are forming their own “bromances” with hilarity and loyalty.

Like all of her BDB books, The Beloved features many different POVs, which move the plot along nicely. The Lessers are back and very different that the ones we first met in Dark Lover. We are treated to reunions that bring a tear to the eye and hints at what to expect next from Ward and the BDB. Honestly, The Beloved has just wet my appetite for more of the Black Dagger Brotherhood!

Thank you to Gallery Books for an early copy in exchange for honest feedback.