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L.O.R.D.S. #3
The Sacrifice
An all-new dark standalone romance from the USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Shantel Tessier
HIS LADY
A Lord is to marry after he graduates from Barrington University, an elite college for the rich. A Lady’s job is to help him fit into a world unaware of his secret society. The Lord does not get to choose who he spends the rest of his life with. But there is always an exception to the rule. And I just so happen to be his.
I VOW. YOU VOW. WE VOW.
I was to wed a Lord of my parents’ choosing. Wealth can’t buy you everything, or I would have had freedom years ago. Instead, my strict parents made sure I lived a dull life in a mansion resembling a prison.
But on my wedding day, I was handed over to another man—an even more ruthless Lord that my family hated.
Tyson Riley Crawford only wanted me for his revenge. I’m nothing more than a debt to be paid. I didn’t have a say in the matter. So when I said my vows before the congregation, I knew I’d break them. Consequences be damned.
Too bad I underestimated my husband and didn’t realize he was more determined to punish me than I was to succeed at escaping. He’ll make me choke on those words I used to bind myself to him.
Yet even he couldn’t have seen what our future held. Ultimately, we’re all just pawns in a game that none of us can win unless you’re willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice … and even that may not be enough.
Things to know about The Sacrifice
Secret society
MF (no sharing the h)
J/P (jealous/possessive) Hero
OTT (over the top) Hero
Complete standalone
Told in dual POV
TWs listed inside the book
HIS LADY
A Lord is to marry after he graduates from Barrington University, an elite college for the rich. A Lady’s job is to help him fit into a world unaware of his secret society. The Lord does not get to choose who he spends the rest of his life with. But there is always an exception to the rule. And I just so happen to be his.
I VOW. YOU VOW. WE VOW.
I was to wed a Lord of my parents’ choosing. Wealth can’t buy you everything, or I would have had freedom years ago. Instead, my strict parents made sure I lived a dull life in a mansion resembling a prison.
But on my wedding day, I was handed over to another man—an even more ruthless Lord that my family hated.
Tyson Riley Crawford only wanted me for his revenge. I’m nothing more than a debt to be paid. I didn’t have a say in the matter. So when I said my vows before the congregation, I knew I’d break them. Consequences be damned.
Too bad I underestimated my husband and didn’t realize he was more determined to punish me than I was to succeed at escaping. He’ll make me choke on those words I used to bind myself to him.
Yet even he couldn’t have seen what our future held. Ultimately, we’re all just pawns in a game that none of us can win unless you’re willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice … and even that may not be enough.
Things to know about The Sacrifice
Secret society
MF (no sharing the h)
J/P (jealous/possessive) Hero
OTT (over the top) Hero
Complete standalone
Told in dual POV
TWs listed inside the book
554 pages, Paperback
First published April 6, 2023
17256 people are currently reading
145812 people want to read
About the author
Shantel Tessier
66 books33.2k followersShantel is a USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author. She lives in Oklahoma with her high school sweetheart, who is a wonderful, supportive husband and their two daughters. She loves to spend time cuddled up on the couch with a good book. Although she has a passion to write, her family is most important to her.
Email her at: Shanteltessierassistant@gmail.com
Email her at: Shanteltessierassistant@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 9,153 reviews
May 26, 2024
➳
4.5/5 stars
✶࿐
“Welcome to hell, little darling. You’ll only be able to crawl as far as my chains will allow you.”
okay so first of all Tyson Riley Crawford can fucking ruin me and I'd say thank youu!!! Anyways so, I delved into this book solely for his character, captivated by the role in the other books. After feeling let down by the second book, my expectations were modest at best. Yet, to say that this book exceeded them would be an understatement. It not only reignited my interest but also left me utterly spellbound from start to finish.
Secondly this book is as dark as other books in the series so if you've never read a dark romance i advice you not to start with this one.
Entering the heart of the story, it unfolds in the world of lords, although the main male character isn't officially recognized as one due to his past. Consequently, he's not obligated to seek out a chosen one. However, when he unexpectedly falls for his enemy's daughter, he takes drastic measures to protect her, even forcing her to marry him in order to save her. Now y'all be wondering why does she needs saving?? Well, it's something you need to read and find out for yourself.
Shantel's skillful depiction of the enemies-to-lovers trope, intertwined with the complexities of a forced marriage scenario, is truly praiseworthy. Despite my initial doubts, this book surpassed all expectations, leaving me thoroughly engrossed and longing for more. In fact, I found myself wishing the story would continue, reluctant to bid farewell to it.
╰┈➤ Tyson Riley Crawford
This guy? He's the epitome of why I'll always choose morally grey over golden retrievers any day. Right from the first book, he captured my attention, and I secretly hoped he'd maintain that allure in his own story. It's funny how I tend to adore side characters in one book, only to be disappointed by their own stories later on. But not him. He's the exception, the one who keeps me coming back for more.
Despite being a lord by birth, he's opted to shed that title due to false accusations staining his past. Yet, he stands as Shantel's finest creation, embodying just the right blend of possessiveness, unwavering love, and a hint of obsession for his wife. Admittedly, there are moments where he may have crossed the line, but his sincerity shines through nonetheless.
What truly resonated with me was his unyielding protectiveness towards Lake. I mean, who could forget the moment he took down a man without hesitation for even daring to touch his wife? And when Lake was kidnapped, he didn't hesitate to go to extreme lengths, literally burning the city to the ground, just to ensure her safe return. But perhaps what's most remarkable is his journey of character development. From initially being brooding and distant, he gradually evolves into the most caring and devoted husband one could imagine, his transformation is nothing short of extraordinary.
And let's not overlook the fact that he knew exactly what her dream wedding ring looked like, going so far as to personally fly to Paris to have it custom made for her. Can we just take a moment to swoon over that level of thoughtfulness? It's these thoughtful gestures that truly set him apart as the epitome of a devoted husband, capturing hearts with each heartfelt deed.
“If loving someone means you’d burn the world to protect them, then I love her. It was never supposed to be this way. Me and her. But it doesn’t matter why or how we got here. Not anymore."
OH MY GOD!!!! 😍🤌🏻
╰┈➤ Laikyn Minson
What pleasantly surprised me about her character was that she defied the typical mold I've come to expect from Shantel's female leads. Instead of being a doormat or a mere object of desire, she showed remarkable strength and resilience. She didn't hesitate to stand up for herself when she knew she was being wronged, even in the face of forced marriage. Despite the odds stacked against her, she bravely confronted her father and brother, recognizing their role in her struggles. And perhaps most admirably, she didn't surrender to her kidnapper without a fight. Her tenacity and courage shine through, making her a refreshing and inspiring protagonist.
See i know all of this feels nothing special but atleast she wasn't one of those tiny, fragile fmcs who can't even lift their fingers without their guard dog male character guarding them. It's a breath of fresh air to see a female lead who's not the stereotypical fragile damsel in distress, constantly reliant on her male counterpart for protection. Her unexpected badassery took me by surprise too, in the best possible way.
But let's talk about the real villain here: her despicable excuse for a father. The sheer audacity to consider selling his own daughter, rather than allowing her the freedom to make her own choices, is beyond comprehension. And don't even get me started on the invasion of privacy with those cameras in her wedding suite. It's appalling. And the fact that he was willing to marry her off to someone who would undoubtedly make her life a living hell? That's a whole new level of parental failure.
"If you think I’m going to bow down to you because you’re my husband, you’re wrong."
╰┈➤ Tyson and Laikyn
Their chemistry was simply undeniable, crackling with an intensity that set the pages on fire. The sexual tension between them? Off the charts doesn't even begin to cover it. And their banter? Oh, it was pure delight, each exchange laced with playful wit and undeniable charm. Shantel truly outdid herself with the forced marriage trope, crafting scenes that left me craving more of their interactions. From swoon-worthy moments to heartwarming gestures, every page was filled with undeniable charm that had me sighing with delight.
°˖➴ "Overall, if you find yourself craving a book that delves into the depths of dark romance, leaving you utterly captivated and longing for more, then your search ends here!!" 💌
౨ৎ QUOTES ✨
⚘ "I am the only god you will worship, little darling. Ready to get on your knees for me?”
⚘ “If I even think you’re going to fuck another man, I’ll kill him. In front of you. It’ll be slow and painful. You will see his bloody corpse in your dreams for years to come."
⚘ "I’m going to burn the fucking city down to find her. That’s how far I’m willing to go."
⚘ "My wife could tell me that she wanted to burn the world, and I’d be proud to watch her burn it down to nothing but ashes. In my eyes, she could do no wrong."
⚘ "Being told that you’re not good enough over and over gets to you. No matter how much you try to ignore it, you start to tell yourself that maybe one day it’ll get better, but it doesn’t."
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
꒰ 🌼 ⊹ ࣪ pre-read review —
back in my dark romance eraaa 😌💅🏻
“Welcome to hell, little darling. You’ll only be able to crawl as far as my chains will allow you.”
okay so first of all Tyson Riley Crawford can fucking ruin me and I'd say thank youu!!! Anyways so, I delved into this book solely for his character, captivated by the role in the other books. After feeling let down by the second book, my expectations were modest at best. Yet, to say that this book exceeded them would be an understatement. It not only reignited my interest but also left me utterly spellbound from start to finish.
Secondly this book is as dark as other books in the series so if you've never read a dark romance i advice you not to start with this one.
Entering the heart of the story, it unfolds in the world of lords, although the main male character isn't officially recognized as one due to his past. Consequently, he's not obligated to seek out a chosen one. However, when he unexpectedly falls for his enemy's daughter, he takes drastic measures to protect her, even forcing her to marry him in order to save her. Now y'all be wondering why does she needs saving?? Well, it's something you need to read and find out for yourself.
Shantel's skillful depiction of the enemies-to-lovers trope, intertwined with the complexities of a forced marriage scenario, is truly praiseworthy. Despite my initial doubts, this book surpassed all expectations, leaving me thoroughly engrossed and longing for more. In fact, I found myself wishing the story would continue, reluctant to bid farewell to it.
╰┈➤ Tyson Riley Crawford
This guy? He's the epitome of why I'll always choose morally grey over golden retrievers any day. Right from the first book, he captured my attention, and I secretly hoped he'd maintain that allure in his own story. It's funny how I tend to adore side characters in one book, only to be disappointed by their own stories later on. But not him. He's the exception, the one who keeps me coming back for more.
Despite being a lord by birth, he's opted to shed that title due to false accusations staining his past. Yet, he stands as Shantel's finest creation, embodying just the right blend of possessiveness, unwavering love, and a hint of obsession for his wife. Admittedly, there are moments where he may have crossed the line, but his sincerity shines through nonetheless.
What truly resonated with me was his unyielding protectiveness towards Lake. I mean, who could forget the moment he took down a man without hesitation for even daring to touch his wife? And when Lake was kidnapped, he didn't hesitate to go to extreme lengths, literally burning the city to the ground, just to ensure her safe return. But perhaps what's most remarkable is his journey of character development. From initially being brooding and distant, he gradually evolves into the most caring and devoted husband one could imagine, his transformation is nothing short of extraordinary.
And let's not overlook the fact that he knew exactly what her dream wedding ring looked like, going so far as to personally fly to Paris to have it custom made for her. Can we just take a moment to swoon over that level of thoughtfulness? It's these thoughtful gestures that truly set him apart as the epitome of a devoted husband, capturing hearts with each heartfelt deed.
“If loving someone means you’d burn the world to protect them, then I love her. It was never supposed to be this way. Me and her. But it doesn’t matter why or how we got here. Not anymore."
OH MY GOD!!!! 😍🤌🏻
╰┈➤ Laikyn Minson
What pleasantly surprised me about her character was that she defied the typical mold I've come to expect from Shantel's female leads. Instead of being a doormat or a mere object of desire, she showed remarkable strength and resilience. She didn't hesitate to stand up for herself when she knew she was being wronged, even in the face of forced marriage. Despite the odds stacked against her, she bravely confronted her father and brother, recognizing their role in her struggles. And perhaps most admirably, she didn't surrender to her kidnapper without a fight. Her tenacity and courage shine through, making her a refreshing and inspiring protagonist.
See i know all of this feels nothing special but atleast she wasn't one of those tiny, fragile fmcs who can't even lift their fingers without their guard dog male character guarding them. It's a breath of fresh air to see a female lead who's not the stereotypical fragile damsel in distress, constantly reliant on her male counterpart for protection. Her unexpected badassery took me by surprise too, in the best possible way.
But let's talk about the real villain here: her despicable excuse for a father. The sheer audacity to consider selling his own daughter, rather than allowing her the freedom to make her own choices, is beyond comprehension. And don't even get me started on the invasion of privacy with those cameras in her wedding suite. It's appalling. And the fact that he was willing to marry her off to someone who would undoubtedly make her life a living hell? That's a whole new level of parental failure.
"If you think I’m going to bow down to you because you’re my husband, you’re wrong."
╰┈➤ Tyson and Laikyn
Their chemistry was simply undeniable, crackling with an intensity that set the pages on fire. The sexual tension between them? Off the charts doesn't even begin to cover it. And their banter? Oh, it was pure delight, each exchange laced with playful wit and undeniable charm. Shantel truly outdid herself with the forced marriage trope, crafting scenes that left me craving more of their interactions. From swoon-worthy moments to heartwarming gestures, every page was filled with undeniable charm that had me sighing with delight.
°˖➴ "Overall, if you find yourself craving a book that delves into the depths of dark romance, leaving you utterly captivated and longing for more, then your search ends here!!" 💌
౨ৎ QUOTES ✨
⚘ "I am the only god you will worship, little darling. Ready to get on your knees for me?”
⚘ “If I even think you’re going to fuck another man, I’ll kill him. In front of you. It’ll be slow and painful. You will see his bloody corpse in your dreams for years to come."
⚘ "I’m going to burn the fucking city down to find her. That’s how far I’m willing to go."
⚘ "My wife could tell me that she wanted to burn the world, and I’d be proud to watch her burn it down to nothing but ashes. In my eyes, she could do no wrong."
⚘ "Being told that you’re not good enough over and over gets to you. No matter how much you try to ignore it, you start to tell yourself that maybe one day it’ll get better, but it doesn’t."
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
꒰ 🌼 ⊹ ࣪ pre-read review —
back in my dark romance eraaa 😌💅🏻
April 13, 2023
It’s already -1 star for me even tho I ain’t halfway done yet. Shantel is always the queen when it comes to sex slave trifling degrading pathetic doormat heroines with no back bones.
November 2, 2024
𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒚 𝒃𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒆, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒍 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒂𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔.
i volunteer as tribute🧎🏻♀️yeah i shamelessly enjoyed this🙈
i volunteer as tribute🧎🏻♀️yeah i shamelessly enjoyed this🙈
September 28, 2023
Set in the same world as The Ritual, The Sinner, and Sabotage, we have the much-anticipated story of Tyson Crawford, owner of Blackout.
Having been playing the long game, Tyson puts his revenge plan into motion when he disrupts the wedding of his unsuspecting Little Darling.
When you think this world couldn’t get any twistier, these (anti)heroes couldn’t get any swoonier, Shantel proves. you. wrong.
With one foot in the Lords world and one foot out, Tyson is the mystery we’ve all wanted to solve. We get our answers - and then some, but you can’t even predict the twists and turns The Sacrifice will take along the way. Do yourself a favor, don’t look for spoilers and just dive right in asap!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🫣😳🥵🤯😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Dark Romance
✨ Tropes: Alphahole, Arranged Marriage, Forbidden, Jealous/Possessive, MINE!, Revenge, Secret Society, Touch-Her-and-💀, Virgin h
💋 Kinks: 🍑, Bondage/Restraints, Degradation, Dirty Talk, Discipline/Punishment, Domination, Finger Licking Good, Orgäsm Denial, Pierced 🍆, Toys
⚠️ Warning: It’s definitely NSFW or with a kiddo by your side. In fact, I would highly recommend you read this one after dark to avoid side eye or awkward conversations.
🚩 Safety Squad: There are potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: The Sacrifice is a standalone. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books will enhance the experience.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
Having been playing the long game, Tyson puts his revenge plan into motion when he disrupts the wedding of his unsuspecting Little Darling.
When you think this world couldn’t get any twistier, these (anti)heroes couldn’t get any swoonier, Shantel proves. you. wrong.
With one foot in the Lords world and one foot out, Tyson is the mystery we’ve all wanted to solve. We get our answers - and then some, but you can’t even predict the twists and turns The Sacrifice will take along the way. Do yourself a favor, don’t look for spoilers and just dive right in asap!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🫣😳🥵🤯😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Dark Romance
✨ Tropes: Alphahole, Arranged Marriage, Forbidden, Jealous/Possessive, MINE!, Revenge, Secret Society, Touch-Her-and-💀, Virgin h
💋 Kinks: 🍑, Bondage/Restraints, Degradation, Dirty Talk, Discipline/Punishment, Domination, Finger Licking Good, Orgäsm Denial, Pierced 🍆, Toys
⚠️ Warning: It’s definitely NSFW or with a kiddo by your side. In fact, I would highly recommend you read this one after dark to avoid side eye or awkward conversations.
🚩 Safety Squad: There are potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: The Sacrifice is a standalone. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books will enhance the experience.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
April 8, 2023
‼️This is my personal opinion and i do not intend to hurt anyone but i just have to get this out ok‼️
I'm tired of reading about fmcs who r treated like shit yet secretly enjoy all the nasty stuff that's done to them. Like yes i like me some dubcon situation and all that but when it's the same deal with all the lords,things get monotonous at this point.
I loved Tyson in the other books and was expecting more from him but this was so underwhelming. They never had time to bond or form attachment, everyone treated Lake worse than shit (which im noticing is common for all of shantel's fmcs). All her and Ty ever did was to have nasty sex and girlie's suddenly in luv??? Gurl he didn't even do the bare minimum.
I'm tired of reading remixed versions of stockholm syndrome. I wanted to dnf this book at so many points but i was waiting for lake to grow a backbone but nah, gurlie was so traumatised that she ate up whatever scraps of affection Ty threw her way. And cud i even blame her for that? Not everyone is strong willed and capable of physical ferocity. She's soft and gentle and did most of her situation, which is why i blame Ty.
He was great with the other fmcs and i liked him but when it came to his girl??? And i was supposed to sympathize with him cuz "he did whatever he did for her sake" and all that bullshit? Bruh. It does not justify how and why he treated her that way in the beginning, and his redemption wasn't even worth it. Ugh.
I usually don't go off on reviews and almost never write negative ones but I'm just done with authors remixing the same old bullshit. i love dubcon, bdsm, degradation and all that but this was not it. I was really excited when i received the arc but here we are...this is my honest opinion.
I'm tired of reading about fmcs who r treated like shit yet secretly enjoy all the nasty stuff that's done to them. Like yes i like me some dubcon situation and all that but when it's the same deal with all the lords,things get monotonous at this point.
I loved Tyson in the other books and was expecting more from him but this was so underwhelming. They never had time to bond or form attachment, everyone treated Lake worse than shit (which im noticing is common for all of shantel's fmcs). All her and Ty ever did was to have nasty sex and girlie's suddenly in luv??? Gurl he didn't even do the bare minimum.
I'm tired of reading remixed versions of stockholm syndrome. I wanted to dnf this book at so many points but i was waiting for lake to grow a backbone but nah, gurlie was so traumatised that she ate up whatever scraps of affection Ty threw her way. And cud i even blame her for that? Not everyone is strong willed and capable of physical ferocity. She's soft and gentle and did most of her situation, which is why i blame Ty.
He was great with the other fmcs and i liked him but when it came to his girl??? And i was supposed to sympathize with him cuz "he did whatever he did for her sake" and all that bullshit? Bruh. It does not justify how and why he treated her that way in the beginning, and his redemption wasn't even worth it. Ugh.
I usually don't go off on reviews and almost never write negative ones but I'm just done with authors remixing the same old bullshit. i love dubcon, bdsm, degradation and all that but this was not it. I was really excited when i received the arc but here we are...this is my honest opinion.
October 20, 2024
3.75 🌟🌟🌟 i actually really enjoyed this!!! i hated the ritual so i thought id feel the same way but the plot, the characters, tyson!!!!!!!! big yes.
the ending was kind of a chaotic mess but regardless i had fun. i fear i’m gonna have to go back and read this whole series.
“you vow”
“i vow”
“we vow”
the ending was kind of a chaotic mess but regardless i had fun. i fear i’m gonna have to go back and read this whole series.
“you vow”
“i vow”
“we vow”
February 20, 2025
where can i get a lobotomy?
April 19, 2023
I didn't enjoy. Dnf'd at 40% and skipped to the last chapter. I am a huge fan of dark romance, but there is NO ROMANCE. It's degradation and humiliation, in which the heroine wears a shock collar. I don't kink shame, but this author has sold out. No longer creating intricate storylines and twisty plots, she writes erotica. What is written is so disconnected, it makes no sense. Hot mess.
Body betrayal syndrome is what pushed me over the edge. Also, Tyson (who proclaims to hate her), kills a bartender for touching her. LAME.
Body betrayal syndrome is what pushed me over the edge. Also, Tyson (who proclaims to hate her), kills a bartender for touching her. LAME.
April 18, 2023
If you've read any of Shantel Tessier's books set in the Lord's world, you can expect more of the same dark, violent, filthy fun in The Sacrifice!
Tyson is out for revenge, and Laikin is going to pay with her body, mind, and soul. He has her on her knees, sporting a shock collar, and bleeding for him in less 24 hours. Their titillating tale of treachery and torment turned love isn't for the faint of heart.
While this story can be read as a standalone, Tyson makes multiple appearances in The Ritual and The Sinner. If you're interested in reading the aforementioned titles, it's best to do so in publishing order IMO. Though we may have learned tidbits about Tyson in previous books, we finally get a glimpse into his past and find out all the events that lead up to him giving up his high rank and power in the society.
The Sacrifice is full of lies, betrayal, murder, degradation, and all the kinky fucking sex your perverted little heart could hope for! Tyson is a possessive, OTT alpha that likes Lake best when she's restrained, gagged, and coming on his cock, so be prepared for A LOT of that. I was expecting a little exhibitionism to be thrown in somewhere based on Tyson's history, but that was not the case. He doesn't want anyone's eyes on Lake's body aside from his own, and despite his reasons for marrying her, he will literally kill anyone that lays a finger on Lake. He's extremely protective of her right from the start.
Lake is confused and upset to find out that Tyson hijacked her wedding to another man, not because she loved her husband to be, but because Tyson was engaged to her sister, Whitney. Whitney was murdered years ago when she and Tyson were together, and Lake suspects he had something to do with it. As a result, she would rather murder him than marry him, but as a daughter in the society, she has no control over her life or future.
Shantel Tessier brings the spice and suspense in this sinister story of pain, pleasure, sadism, and savagery! Tyson and Lake's love is intense, depraved, and slightly unhinged. Strap in tight, and prepare yourself for a dirty, unconventional romance with a trigger list in the double digits.
Fans of twisted stories of love that come from unlikely circumstances, this one's for you!
Tyson is out for revenge, and Laikin is going to pay with her body, mind, and soul. He has her on her knees, sporting a shock collar, and bleeding for him in less 24 hours. Their titillating tale of treachery and torment turned love isn't for the faint of heart.
While this story can be read as a standalone, Tyson makes multiple appearances in The Ritual and The Sinner. If you're interested in reading the aforementioned titles, it's best to do so in publishing order IMO. Though we may have learned tidbits about Tyson in previous books, we finally get a glimpse into his past and find out all the events that lead up to him giving up his high rank and power in the society.
The Sacrifice is full of lies, betrayal, murder, degradation, and all the kinky fucking sex your perverted little heart could hope for! Tyson is a possessive, OTT alpha that likes Lake best when she's restrained, gagged, and coming on his cock, so be prepared for A LOT of that. I was expecting a little exhibitionism to be thrown in somewhere based on Tyson's history, but that was not the case. He doesn't want anyone's eyes on Lake's body aside from his own, and despite his reasons for marrying her, he will literally kill anyone that lays a finger on Lake. He's extremely protective of her right from the start.
Lake is confused and upset to find out that Tyson hijacked her wedding to another man, not because she loved her husband to be, but because Tyson was engaged to her sister, Whitney. Whitney was murdered years ago when she and Tyson were together, and Lake suspects he had something to do with it. As a result, she would rather murder him than marry him, but as a daughter in the society, she has no control over her life or future.
Shantel Tessier brings the spice and suspense in this sinister story of pain, pleasure, sadism, and savagery! Tyson and Lake's love is intense, depraved, and slightly unhinged. Strap in tight, and prepare yourself for a dirty, unconventional romance with a trigger list in the double digits.
Fans of twisted stories of love that come from unlikely circumstances, this one's for you!
June 4, 2023
Wish I had amnesia so I could remove this book from my memory.🥰
April 23, 2023
women who write fmc as weak and spineless are the worst it’s literally internal misogyny like why do you hate yourself and women so much 😭 also the fact that he was with her sister before literally made me sick idk why i put myself through this i blame booktok they need to be silenced
March 5, 2024
1.5 stars, full Review on my blog!
(1 star because I liked Tyson's character in the 3 books... AND 0.5 stars for the messy plot... that was just dragged out.. and parts were confusing/not properly explained, also 100% needed editing/condensing)
_________________________________
The Ritual | review
The Sinner | Review
The Sacrifice | Review
Sabotage | Review
Carnage | Review
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
(1 star because I liked Tyson's character in the 3 books... AND 0.5 stars for the messy plot... that was just dragged out.. and parts were confusing/not properly explained, also 100% needed editing/condensing)
_________________________________
The Ritual | review
The Sinner | Review
The Sacrifice | Review
Sabotage | Review
Carnage | Review
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
December 11, 2023
"Once a Lord chooses his Lady, there is no going back."
This wasn't supposed to happen.
Yes, she was supposed to get married but not to…him.
Not to the man that ruined her family.
That took so much from her.
But she doesn't have a choice.
She has to marry Tyson Crawford.
"Welcome to hell, little darling. You'll only be able to crawl as far as my chains will allow you."
Tyson has waited 3 years to marry Laikin Minson.
And nothing will stop him.
After what happened with her sister, this was always the plan.
He has given up so much for this and he is not letting anything get in the way of it.
Not even Laikin herself.
But somethings just can't be controlled.
But Tyson can always try.
"To her, I'll be the enemy, but I'm okay with that. Sometimes the villain is the only one who wins because no one else is ruthless enough to fight him."
This book is so fucking good!!
This series gets better and better with each book. And it is entered into "reasons why Shantel Tessier is just top tier"
"You don't run from men like Tyson. That's how you end up chained to a wall in a basement."
Laikin doesn't want to marry him but Tyson doesn't give her a choice. Trapped in his cage but what will happen when secrets start to come out?
"Nothing is worse than not being able to plead your case. Especially when you're innocent."
You have Laikin Minson who is one of my favorite FMCs honestly. She manages to be badass while also being forced to marry Tyson, her sister's ex-boyfriend and alleged "murderer". I mean the dining scene alone is a perfect example of that and it is one of my favorite scenes of all time honestly.
"He may run the Lords' hell, but I will make sure I burn it down with me."
And you have Tyson MF Crawford. So fucking good!! I mean the possessiveness is possessing and he is giving!! He is serving in this book and it is everything!! He is the last book in the series but with the plot and his storyline how could he not be!!! As you can see I am obsessed and I will not apologize thank you very much.
"You either willingly walk down that aisle to me, or you crawl on your hands and knees with a collar around your neck while I drag you by a leash." (literally me giggling and kicking my feet during this scene no joke!)
"It's going to be so much fun bringing you to your knees, Mrs. Crawford."
The playlist is similar to the other books and they are all the same vibe which I love!!
(Link: https://spotify.link/CNQE4K9S6Db)
🎶 "Chills - Dark Version" - Mickey Valen, Joey Myron
🎶 "Take Me To Church" - YABOII
🎶 "Feel Invincible" - Skillet
🎶 "Secret" - The Pierces
🎶 "Everybody Wants To Rule The World" - Lorde
🎶 "labour" - Paris Paloma
🎶 "Us and Pigs" - SOFIA ISELLA
🎶 "HAUNTED" - Isabel LaRosa
🎶 "Ocean Eyes" - American Avenue
🎶 "Joke's On You" - Charlotte Lawrence
🎶 "You Don't Own Me" - SAYGRACE, G-Eazy
🎶 "Come Over (Again)" - Crawlers
🎶 "MACHINE" - Neoni
🎶 "Cravin'" - Stileto, Kendyle Paige
🎶 "You've Created a Monster" - Bohnes
🎶 "Hayloft" - Crypto, Jake Daniels
🎶 "Pain" - Jake Daniels
🎶 "HOUNDIN PT. II" - Layto, AVIVA
🎶 "Bitches These Days" - Olivia O'Brien
🎶 "Bloodshot" - Sam Tinnesz
🎶 "Killer" - Valerie Broussard
🎶 "Nightmare" - UNDREAM, Neoni
🎶 "Eat Your Young" - Hozier
🎶 "Toxic Pony" - ALTEGO, Britney Spears, Ginuwine
🎶 "Like a God" - Lia Marie Johnson
🎶 "I Am Her God" - Manic Kazzy
🎶 "Into It" - Chase Atlantic
🎶 "False Confidence" - Noah Kahan
🎶 "No Time To Die" - Billie Eilish
🎶 "WONDERLAND" - Neoni
🎶 "do you really want to hurt me?" - Nessa Barrett
🎶 "Good Enough" - Little Mix
🎶 "S&M" - Rain Paris
🎶 "sloppy" -KiNG MALA, UPSAHL
🎶 "Family Line" - Conan Gray
🎶 "I feel everything" - Amelia Moore
🎶 "Tantrum" - Ashnikko
🎶 "American Money" - BORNS
🎶 "Dark Room" - Foreign Figures, Jonny T
🎶 "Flowers" - Lauren Spencer Smith
🎶 "Hurts Like Hell" - Madison Beer, Offset
🎶 "Stay (Speed)" - Ari Abdul
🎶 "Dead Or Alive" - Stileto, Madalen Duke
🎶 "I See Red" - Everybody Loves an Outlaw
🎶 "Love You Like Me" - JEN Z
🎶 "Young And Beautiful" - Lana Del Rey
🎶 "Shameless" - Camila Cabello
🎶 "Wish You Were Sober" - Conan Grey
🎶 "Silence" - Marshmello, Khalid
🎶 "Not Afraid Anymore" - Halsey
🎶 "Neon Lights (Rock Version)" - Demi Lovato, The Maine
🎶 "Don't You Know" - Jaymes Young
🎶 "Breakfast" - Dove Cameron
🎶 "But I Am A Good Girl" - Christina Aguilera
🎶 "I'm yours sped up" - Isabel LaRosa
🎶 "Hurry Up and Save Me" - Tiffany Giardina
🎶 "Without You" - David Guetta, Usher
🎶 "If I Can't Have You" - Shawn Mendes
🎶 "Survivor" - Besomage, Meric Again, RIELL
🎶 "Crazy In Love - Remix" - Beyonce
And you know Tyson is that guy… you just know…
"Good girl, there are so many ways I can get you off, little darling."
"Come again for me. Show me how much you like getting off."
"Did you like that? It's okay, Lake. There will be lots of things that I do that your body will like."
"I vow. You Vow. We Vow"
🕯️ Tropes 🕯️
💍 Forced Marriage
💍 Secret Society
💍 Very Dark Romance
💍 Revenge
💍 Touch her and die
This wasn't supposed to happen.
Yes, she was supposed to get married but not to…him.
Not to the man that ruined her family.
That took so much from her.
But she doesn't have a choice.
She has to marry Tyson Crawford.
"Welcome to hell, little darling. You'll only be able to crawl as far as my chains will allow you."
Tyson has waited 3 years to marry Laikin Minson.
And nothing will stop him.
After what happened with her sister, this was always the plan.
He has given up so much for this and he is not letting anything get in the way of it.
Not even Laikin herself.
But somethings just can't be controlled.
But Tyson can always try.
"To her, I'll be the enemy, but I'm okay with that. Sometimes the villain is the only one who wins because no one else is ruthless enough to fight him."
This book is so fucking good!!
This series gets better and better with each book. And it is entered into "reasons why Shantel Tessier is just top tier"
"You don't run from men like Tyson. That's how you end up chained to a wall in a basement."
Laikin doesn't want to marry him but Tyson doesn't give her a choice. Trapped in his cage but what will happen when secrets start to come out?
"Nothing is worse than not being able to plead your case. Especially when you're innocent."
You have Laikin Minson who is one of my favorite FMCs honestly. She manages to be badass while also being forced to marry Tyson, her sister's ex-boyfriend and alleged "murderer". I mean the dining scene alone is a perfect example of that and it is one of my favorite scenes of all time honestly.
"He may run the Lords' hell, but I will make sure I burn it down with me."
And you have Tyson MF Crawford. So fucking good!! I mean the possessiveness is possessing and he is giving!! He is serving in this book and it is everything!! He is the last book in the series but with the plot and his storyline how could he not be!!! As you can see I am obsessed and I will not apologize thank you very much.
"You either willingly walk down that aisle to me, or you crawl on your hands and knees with a collar around your neck while I drag you by a leash." (literally me giggling and kicking my feet during this scene no joke!)
"It's going to be so much fun bringing you to your knees, Mrs. Crawford."
The playlist is similar to the other books and they are all the same vibe which I love!!
(Link: https://spotify.link/CNQE4K9S6Db)
🎶 "Chills - Dark Version" - Mickey Valen, Joey Myron
🎶 "Take Me To Church" - YABOII
🎶 "Feel Invincible" - Skillet
🎶 "Secret" - The Pierces
🎶 "Everybody Wants To Rule The World" - Lorde
🎶 "labour" - Paris Paloma
🎶 "Us and Pigs" - SOFIA ISELLA
🎶 "HAUNTED" - Isabel LaRosa
🎶 "Ocean Eyes" - American Avenue
🎶 "Joke's On You" - Charlotte Lawrence
🎶 "You Don't Own Me" - SAYGRACE, G-Eazy
🎶 "Come Over (Again)" - Crawlers
🎶 "MACHINE" - Neoni
🎶 "Cravin'" - Stileto, Kendyle Paige
🎶 "You've Created a Monster" - Bohnes
🎶 "Hayloft" - Crypto, Jake Daniels
🎶 "Pain" - Jake Daniels
🎶 "HOUNDIN PT. II" - Layto, AVIVA
🎶 "Bitches These Days" - Olivia O'Brien
🎶 "Bloodshot" - Sam Tinnesz
🎶 "Killer" - Valerie Broussard
🎶 "Nightmare" - UNDREAM, Neoni
🎶 "Eat Your Young" - Hozier
🎶 "Toxic Pony" - ALTEGO, Britney Spears, Ginuwine
🎶 "Like a God" - Lia Marie Johnson
🎶 "I Am Her God" - Manic Kazzy
🎶 "Into It" - Chase Atlantic
🎶 "False Confidence" - Noah Kahan
🎶 "No Time To Die" - Billie Eilish
🎶 "WONDERLAND" - Neoni
🎶 "do you really want to hurt me?" - Nessa Barrett
🎶 "Good Enough" - Little Mix
🎶 "S&M" - Rain Paris
🎶 "sloppy" -KiNG MALA, UPSAHL
🎶 "Family Line" - Conan Gray
🎶 "I feel everything" - Amelia Moore
🎶 "Tantrum" - Ashnikko
🎶 "American Money" - BORNS
🎶 "Dark Room" - Foreign Figures, Jonny T
🎶 "Flowers" - Lauren Spencer Smith
🎶 "Hurts Like Hell" - Madison Beer, Offset
🎶 "Stay (Speed)" - Ari Abdul
🎶 "Dead Or Alive" - Stileto, Madalen Duke
🎶 "I See Red" - Everybody Loves an Outlaw
🎶 "Love You Like Me" - JEN Z
🎶 "Young And Beautiful" - Lana Del Rey
🎶 "Shameless" - Camila Cabello
🎶 "Wish You Were Sober" - Conan Grey
🎶 "Silence" - Marshmello, Khalid
🎶 "Not Afraid Anymore" - Halsey
🎶 "Neon Lights (Rock Version)" - Demi Lovato, The Maine
🎶 "Don't You Know" - Jaymes Young
🎶 "Breakfast" - Dove Cameron
🎶 "But I Am A Good Girl" - Christina Aguilera
🎶 "I'm yours sped up" - Isabel LaRosa
🎶 "Hurry Up and Save Me" - Tiffany Giardina
🎶 "Without You" - David Guetta, Usher
🎶 "If I Can't Have You" - Shawn Mendes
🎶 "Survivor" - Besomage, Meric Again, RIELL
🎶 "Crazy In Love - Remix" - Beyonce
And you know Tyson is that guy… you just know…
"Good girl, there are so many ways I can get you off, little darling."
"Come again for me. Show me how much you like getting off."
"Did you like that? It's okay, Lake. There will be lots of things that I do that your body will like."
"I vow. You Vow. We Vow"
🕯️ Tropes 🕯️
💍 Forced Marriage
💍 Secret Society
💍 Very Dark Romance
💍 Revenge
💍 Touch her and die
June 27, 2023
I'm flabbergasted that this heroine can still walk normally
1) because of all the violent sex inflicted on that poor virgin in a matter of days
2) because she has no backbone whatsoever, she must have some sort of spinal chord disorder (grow that backbone girl!!!!)
1) because of all the violent sex inflicted on that poor virgin in a matter of days
2) because she has no backbone whatsoever, she must have some sort of spinal chord disorder (grow that backbone girl!!!!)
October 15, 2025
2.75 ✧
The Sacrifice by Shantel Tessier is a dark college romance—the third installment in the L.O.R.D.S. series. It follows Tyson Crawford, a Lord known for his ruthless streak—and Laikyn Minson, a girl whose wedding day is shattered when Tyson storms the ceremony and claims her for himself. His intention? To punish the Minsons, to humiliate them, and to use Lake as his weapon. But Tyson is not just any suitor—Lake's deceased sister, Whitney, was his chosen. What binds them together is not love, but vengeance, violence, and a shadowy mystery surrounding Whitney’s death. Who killed her? Did Tyson play a role? And as the questions unravel, the pair realize they are both pawns in a far larger, bloodier game.
───♡─────────────
♡ What I loved most:
• Dual POV that fleshed out their choices and contradictions 🖤
• The timeline flows directly after The Ritual and The Sinner, making it feel like one continuous world ⏳
• Cameos from past MCs that stitched the books into one brutal tapestry 🩸
• Flashbacks wove history into present wounds 🌑
• The mystery surrounding Whitney’s death kept me hooked—crumbs of truth and lies teased me all the way through 🕯️
• The serial killer subplot added an extra chilling intrigue 🔪
• The emotional development was one of the best parts: Laikyn’s quiet transformation into a woman who dares to stand up, and Tyson’s slow descent into vulnerability 🍂
• I adored that Tyson fell first and kept his feelings hidden 🥀
• Tyson’s villain energy—dark, obsessive, and destructive—was compelling 🔥
• The last 100 pages flew by—fast-paced, addictive, full of tension ⚡
• The reveals were sharp and impactful, delivering satisfying clarity 🎭
• The ending set up the next book perfectly—enough to make me want to keep reading 📖
�� What didn’t quite work for me:
• Typos again… I think it’s safe to say: new editor needed ✍️
• The fact that Whitney (Lake's dead sister) was Tyson's chosen is deeply unsettling. Sleeping with a man who shared years of intimacy with your sister? Uncomfortable doesn’t even cover it 🤢
• Lake secretly watching Whitney and Tyson during intimate moments? Weird AF 😳
• The spice was often too violent for my taste 🚫
• The humiliation kink was disguised as romance: Tyson degrading Lake publicly left me aching with resentment for her 🥀
• The repetitive mention of Tyson’s “baby blue eyes” clashed with his ruthless, dark persona 👁️
• The plot was once again overshadowed by endless smut—no surprise by book three 🥱
• The punishment kink became repetitive: Lake disobeys → Tyson punishes → repeat. Boring.
• By now, the series formula is predictable:
• And of course, the recycled twist: 🥱
• Another recurring theme: FMCs always have toxic, cruel families. 😳
❀ Overall:
The Sacrifice wasn’t as painfully dark as The Sinner, but it also lacked the spark and originality of The Ritual. While I enjoyed the mystery, reveals, and Tyson and Lake’s eventual bond, I couldn’t help noticing how recycled the plot beats felt. There were beautiful emotional moments here, but they were buried beneath repetitive smut and déjà-vu twists.
Still, the ending hooked me enough to continue—I’ll be picking up Carnage because I do love the overarching mystery, the reveals, and the way these books always manage to close on satisfying notes. 🖤
「L.O.R.D.S. series」
#1 The Ritual — 3.5 ✧
#2 The Sinner — 2 ✧
#3 The Sacrifice — 2.75 ✧
#4 Sabotage — 1.75 ✧
#5 Carnage — TBR
#6 Madness — TBR
#7 Chaotic — TBA
The Sacrifice by Shantel Tessier is a dark college romance—the third installment in the L.O.R.D.S. series. It follows Tyson Crawford, a Lord known for his ruthless streak—and Laikyn Minson, a girl whose wedding day is shattered when Tyson storms the ceremony and claims her for himself. His intention? To punish the Minsons, to humiliate them, and to use Lake as his weapon. But Tyson is not just any suitor—Lake's deceased sister, Whitney, was his chosen. What binds them together is not love, but vengeance, violence, and a shadowy mystery surrounding Whitney’s death. Who killed her? Did Tyson play a role? And as the questions unravel, the pair realize they are both pawns in a far larger, bloodier game.
“Lots of people mistake lust and love. The difference is love demands a sacrifice. And that’s what I did when I changed our futures three years ago.”
───♡─────────────
♡ What I loved most:
• Dual POV that fleshed out their choices and contradictions 🖤
• The timeline flows directly after The Ritual and The Sinner, making it feel like one continuous world ⏳
• Cameos from past MCs that stitched the books into one brutal tapestry 🩸
• Flashbacks wove history into present wounds 🌑
• The mystery surrounding Whitney’s death kept me hooked—crumbs of truth and lies teased me all the way through 🕯️
• The serial killer subplot added an extra chilling intrigue 🔪
• The emotional development was one of the best parts: Laikyn’s quiet transformation into a woman who dares to stand up, and Tyson’s slow descent into vulnerability 🍂
“Love? It doesn’t sound so foreign anymore. If loving someone means you’d burn the world to protect them, then I love her. It was never supposed to be this way. Me and her. But it doesn’t matter why or how we got here. Not anymore.”
• I adored that Tyson fell first and kept his feelings hidden 🥀
“‘Why didn't you tell me this yesterday when you told me about the phone?’
‘Because it didn't matter,’ she answers tightly.
‘Everything matters when it comes to you,’ I say honestly. It always has. She just doesn’t know that.”
• Tyson’s villain energy—dark, obsessive, and destructive—was compelling 🔥
“I’m not sorry for what I’m about to do. For all the bodies I’m going to leave in my wake.
Why? Because the villain doesn’t give two shits about the world. All he cares about is the one thing that calms his demons, and that person for me is Lake.”
• The last 100 pages flew by—fast-paced, addictive, full of tension ⚡
• The reveals were sharp and impactful, delivering satisfying clarity 🎭
• The ending set up the next book perfectly—enough to make me want to keep reading 📖
�� What didn’t quite work for me:
• Typos again… I think it’s safe to say: new editor needed ✍️
• The fact that Whitney (Lake's dead sister) was Tyson's chosen is deeply unsettling. Sleeping with a man who shared years of intimacy with your sister? Uncomfortable doesn’t even cover it 🤢
“I was always drawn to him. Obsessed with him. I wanted what my sister had.”
• Lake secretly watching Whitney and Tyson during intimate moments? Weird AF 😳
• The spice was often too violent for my taste 🚫
• The humiliation kink was disguised as romance: Tyson degrading Lake publicly left me aching with resentment for her 🥀
• The repetitive mention of Tyson’s “baby blue eyes” clashed with his ruthless, dark persona 👁️
• The plot was once again overshadowed by endless smut—no surprise by book three 🥱
• The punishment kink became repetitive: Lake disobeys → Tyson punishes → repeat. Boring.
• By now, the series formula is predictable:
• And of course, the recycled twist: 🥱
• Another recurring theme: FMCs always have toxic, cruel families. 😳
❀ Overall:
The Sacrifice wasn’t as painfully dark as The Sinner, but it also lacked the spark and originality of The Ritual. While I enjoyed the mystery, reveals, and Tyson and Lake’s eventual bond, I couldn’t help noticing how recycled the plot beats felt. There were beautiful emotional moments here, but they were buried beneath repetitive smut and déjà-vu twists.
Still, the ending hooked me enough to continue—I’ll be picking up Carnage because I do love the overarching mystery, the reveals, and the way these books always manage to close on satisfying notes. 🖤
「L.O.R.D.S. series」
#1 The Ritual — 3.5 ✧
#2 The Sinner — 2 ✧
#3 The Sacrifice — 2.75 ✧
#4 Sabotage — 1.75 ✧
#5 Carnage — TBR
#6 Madness — TBR
#7 Chaotic — TBA
July 10, 2023
The Sacrifice is set in the same world as The Ritual and The Sinner. It is full of violence, suspense, and twists and turns that were not expected.
Laikyn "Lake" Minson is set to marry a Lord, but on the day of her wedding, there was a sudden change of plans. Tyson Crawford, the owner of Blackout, is able to choose who he marries and has chosen her as part of his plan for revenge. Lake knows what Tyson is capable of as this is not her first run-in with him as her sister Whitney was his Chosen. She is aware that she is part of some plan and suspects what the outcome may be. What she doesn't know is that he will do whatever he needs to do in order to keep her safe and protect her at all costs.
“You either willingly walk down that aisle to me, or you crawl on your hands and knees with a collar around your neck while I drag you by a leash.”
“Welcome to hell, little darling. You’ll only be able to crawl as far as my chains will allow you.”
I loved everything about Tyson, and as Ryat is still my favorite, he is a very close second! Shantel takes you on one hell of a ride with this one, so hold on and enjoy it. I can't wait for Carnage.
Laikyn "Lake" Minson is set to marry a Lord, but on the day of her wedding, there was a sudden change of plans. Tyson Crawford, the owner of Blackout, is able to choose who he marries and has chosen her as part of his plan for revenge. Lake knows what Tyson is capable of as this is not her first run-in with him as her sister Whitney was his Chosen. She is aware that she is part of some plan and suspects what the outcome may be. What she doesn't know is that he will do whatever he needs to do in order to keep her safe and protect her at all costs.
“You either willingly walk down that aisle to me, or you crawl on your hands and knees with a collar around your neck while I drag you by a leash.”
“Welcome to hell, little darling. You’ll only be able to crawl as far as my chains will allow you.”
I loved everything about Tyson, and as Ryat is still my favorite, he is a very close second! Shantel takes you on one hell of a ride with this one, so hold on and enjoy it. I can't wait for Carnage.
April 30, 2023
2.5/5⭐️ 3/5🌶️
I’m gonna preface this by saying please do not come at me for this review. This is my personal opinion, and I respect any opinions that differ from mine. I also will not be going into extreme detail for respect for the author. I have loved all of Shantel’s previous works that I’ve read and will continue to read her books in the future. With that said, if you’d like to know more on my opinions, please dm me as I am not into author or book bashing.
In short, I thought there were a ton of disconnects. Between the plot, the characters, the build up. There were multiple scenes that I thought didn’t make sense in relation to the book. I won’t say how I would have liked the characters to be, because this is not my work and I respect that this is how Shantel envisioned her characters, but for me, it was a miss. Needless to say, it was hard for me to finish this book. It wasn’t keeping my attention. Which really was a let down for me, because I was ready for Tyson.
The things I did like were the beginning chapters. The way Tyson presented in about the first 7-8 chapters was dark deliciousness. I liked the cameos and how their characters aligned with the story, and how their demeanors stayed consistent to the other books.
A few quotes I liked were:
Lots of people mistake lust and love. The difference is love demands a sacrifice.
Sometimes the villain is the only one who wins because no one else is ruthless enough to fight him.
“Welcome to hell, little darling. You’ll only be able to crawl as far as my chains will allow you.”
“I am the only god you will worship, little darling. Ready to get on your knees for me?”
When you’ve been starving for affection all your life, you’ll accept the least amount of effort given and turn it into something it isn’t.
I’m gonna preface this by saying please do not come at me for this review. This is my personal opinion, and I respect any opinions that differ from mine. I also will not be going into extreme detail for respect for the author. I have loved all of Shantel’s previous works that I’ve read and will continue to read her books in the future. With that said, if you’d like to know more on my opinions, please dm me as I am not into author or book bashing.
In short, I thought there were a ton of disconnects. Between the plot, the characters, the build up. There were multiple scenes that I thought didn’t make sense in relation to the book. I won’t say how I would have liked the characters to be, because this is not my work and I respect that this is how Shantel envisioned her characters, but for me, it was a miss. Needless to say, it was hard for me to finish this book. It wasn’t keeping my attention. Which really was a let down for me, because I was ready for Tyson.
The things I did like were the beginning chapters. The way Tyson presented in about the first 7-8 chapters was dark deliciousness. I liked the cameos and how their characters aligned with the story, and how their demeanors stayed consistent to the other books.
A few quotes I liked were:
Lots of people mistake lust and love. The difference is love demands a sacrifice.
Sometimes the villain is the only one who wins because no one else is ruthless enough to fight him.
“Welcome to hell, little darling. You’ll only be able to crawl as far as my chains will allow you.”
“I am the only god you will worship, little darling. Ready to get on your knees for me?”
When you’ve been starving for affection all your life, you’ll accept the least amount of effort given and turn it into something it isn’t.
April 12, 2023
DNF.
Not my cup of tea. Not because it’s dark and whatnot, but because it didn’t do anything but gross me out. I want steamy scenes, but whatever you call this wasn’t it for me. It’s over the top dramatic and nonsensical along with the ridiculous amount of sex scenes. And the sex scenes aren’t good. They’re just sickening. Sorry, but having her virginity taken and wiping all of the blood all over the room is not only gross… it doesn’t even sound possible. Maybe some virgins bleed a lot more than others, but I’ve never heard of THAT much blood.
I don’t even know what else to say. It just seems strange to me that this is something that people like and get their rocks off on, but hey. Whatever floats your boat, I guess.
Not my cup of tea. Not because it’s dark and whatnot, but because it didn’t do anything but gross me out. I want steamy scenes, but whatever you call this wasn’t it for me. It’s over the top dramatic and nonsensical along with the ridiculous amount of sex scenes. And the sex scenes aren’t good. They’re just sickening. Sorry, but having her virginity taken and wiping all of the blood all over the room is not only gross… it doesn’t even sound possible. Maybe some virgins bleed a lot more than others, but I’ve never heard of THAT much blood.
I don’t even know what else to say. It just seems strange to me that this is something that people like and get their rocks off on, but hey. Whatever floats your boat, I guess.
May 1, 2023
How this book has such a high rating I have no idea. The entire universe this author has created is awful. Women are treated as no more than sex slaves and the men have no morals. I have read 2 books from this universe this one and ‘the sinner’, and all the heroes do is rape the heroines. In the sinner the H strings the h up and pierces her nipples without her consent, and then like a week later brands her with his ring (he heats the ring up and burns her with it) while she is tied up and gagged.
To quote one of the Heroes
“I’ve woken her up, and fucked her while she was still asleep. She let me have my way with her. But then again, it’s hard to stop me when her are tied. Or tell me no when she is gagged”
WTF I would be okay with it if the heroines had safe word’s because they apparently don’t know what stop means.
I have lost count on how many times the h’s have begged the H’s to stop and them continuing not hearing a thing.
To quote one of the Heroes
“I’ve woken her up, and fucked her while she was still asleep. She let me have my way with her. But then again, it’s hard to stop me when her are tied. Or tell me no when she is gagged”
WTF I would be okay with it if the heroines had safe word’s because they apparently don’t know what stop means.
I have lost count on how many times the h’s have begged the H’s to stop and them continuing not hearing a thing.
September 13, 2023
Ugh this book was probably my favorite out of all 3 (The Ritual, The Sinner, The Sacrifice)😭. The mystery and plot twists were so great, really felt like a thriller book! Th spicy scenes were incredibly spicy as per usual with Shantal Tessier🌶️ Loved the storyline and character development, so sad this book is over!!
October 16, 2023
Daddy Ryat who???? How about DADDY TYSON!!!!!! I have been waiting for so long to learn about Tysons history and let me tell you, Shantel Tessier DELIVERED!!!!!!! Tyson is a everything you want in a man and more. He is truly the definition of a Lord!!!!! After his chosen Whitney died, he had a plan to marry her sister Laikyn (Lake) to get revenge on her family for what they had put him through. Lake had always been obssesed with Tyson, seeing the things he would do to her sister, that would make her hot and bothered, but after she thought he had killed her sister, she despised him. He planned to make her beg for him, crave him, be his dirty whore that he would rub in her families face. I can’t get to much into details because YOU HAVE TO READ IT. Twists, turns, anger, sadness and man lots and lots of dirty sex lol. If you haven’t read The Ritual or The Sinner yet, I highly recommend you do, as the characters from those books make appearances in the story to Tyson.
Rating: 5⭐️
Spicy: 5🌶️
“Right now, I represent all of us. I’m not fighting them; I’m fighting for them. For us as a team.”
“Her nostrils flare, her pretty blue eyes swimming in tears that she hasn’t allowed to fall yet. “You’re disgusting.” I lower my lips to her ear, and whisper, “I am, but I will. make you crave everything I choose to do to you.”
“Men like Tyson Crawford need a sacrifice, and he’s made me realize that I’d willingly be that for him”
“Tyson Riley Crawford is the kind of man that women dream of. And I’d gladly never wake up.”
Rating: 5⭐️
Spicy: 5🌶️
“Right now, I represent all of us. I’m not fighting them; I’m fighting for them. For us as a team.”
“Her nostrils flare, her pretty blue eyes swimming in tears that she hasn’t allowed to fall yet. “You’re disgusting.” I lower my lips to her ear, and whisper, “I am, but I will. make you crave everything I choose to do to you.”
“Men like Tyson Crawford need a sacrifice, and he’s made me realize that I’d willingly be that for him”
“Tyson Riley Crawford is the kind of man that women dream of. And I’d gladly never wake up.”
September 26, 2025
I am not done with the audiobook yet, but first chapter has the MMC murder a woman.
So obviously, no matter what happens from now on, it's a zero stars.
Stop killing women!
It's not sexy.
And it's triggering...
So obviously, no matter what happens from now on, it's a zero stars.
Stop killing women!
It's not sexy.
And it's triggering...
January 11, 2024
The only thing “sacrificed” were my brain cells.
I can’t believe an adult wrote THAT plot.
I can’t believe an adult wrote THAT plot.
Want to read
October 10, 2025♡⊹⊱ 𝓣𝓸-𝓑𝓮 𝓛𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓭 ⊹⊱♡
⤿ Tyson Riley Crawford 🥺💍… I’m completely captivated 🧎🏻♀️ His story calls to me, but I can’t bring myself to read it just yet 💖 I’m not ready to let him go—at least, not for now 🫧🦋 ⊹⊱♡
⤿ Tyson Riley Crawford 🥺💍… I’m completely captivated 🧎🏻♀️ His story calls to me, but I can’t bring myself to read it just yet 💖 I’m not ready to let him go—at least, not for now 🫧🦋 ⊹⊱♡
August 31, 2024
"Men like Tyson Crawford need a sacrifice, and he's made me realize that I'd willingly be that for him."
Ok so in ALL HONESTY I actually didn't like Tyson in the beginning not gonna lie.. and the shock collar thing just wasn't for me so I was worried I wasn't going to like this one. BUT at about 20% Tyson's possessiveness for Lake started to shine through and he grew on me. Every time that man said MY WIFE, I was a puddle.
SO MUCH happened in this one and it was so freaking amazing to see it all unfold towards the end. I can in fact say, my mind was blown.
I will also say that Lake is my favorite... "it sucks knowing that you're helpless, doesn't it?"
ICONIC.
I still think The Sinner is my favorite in the series.. but this one is a close second!
Highlights
"Everything matters when it comes to you."
"Going to show me what I bought?"
"Didn't plan on it." 🤣🤣🤣
"If you want to change your hair, then change it." 🥹
Ok so in ALL HONESTY I actually didn't like Tyson in the beginning not gonna lie.. and the shock collar thing just wasn't for me so I was worried I wasn't going to like this one. BUT at about 20% Tyson's possessiveness for Lake started to shine through and he grew on me. Every time that man said MY WIFE, I was a puddle.
SO MUCH happened in this one and it was so freaking amazing to see it all unfold towards the end. I can in fact say, my mind was blown.
I will also say that Lake is my favorite... "it sucks knowing that you're helpless, doesn't it?"
ICONIC.
I still think The Sinner is my favorite in the series.. but this one is a close second!
Highlights
"Everything matters when it comes to you."
"Going to show me what I bought?"
"Didn't plan on it." 🤣🤣🤣
"If you want to change your hair, then change it." 🥹
February 29, 2024
DNF 40%
i HATE this man
i HATE this man
Read
August 27, 2024DNF@52%
I should have known I should have known I should have known. A Goodreads rating of 4.52 with only a handful of negative reviews. Sus af. And yet I wanted to give this a try lmao. Somebody please tell me in which fucking universe is the H OTT/possessive. He's just using the h like his personal rag doll and fuck toy. And while I like that during spicy scenes, I like it more if the the MMC actually knows how to treat the FMC right otherwise. Everytime Lake grows a semblance of a backbone, Tyson fucks and then BAM she's back to being a doormat again. I cannot tell you the number of times I've felt a flicker of pride and hope when I saw her ready to stand up to him only for it to be snuffed out when he made her his, and I quote, whore. Extremely frustrating to read this book. Add to that the fact that the H fucked the h's sister (even though he didn't love her and had to do it for some fucked up society shit), it still gave me the ick and made me feel uncomfy - there were brief scenes/flashbacks showing us the H with the h's supposedly dead but not really dead sister (yeah, I spoiled some things for myself hehe) as well. I would have to liked see some actual jealousy scenes where Lake would have been intimate with another man and Tyson getting possessive over her. I mean, there was that one scene but that just wasn't enough. I skimmed most of the book since by 32% mark, I was bored, extremely agitated and eventually ended up DNFing because ✨️self care✨️. There were several plotholes and disconnects that I personally felt in the story. The premise was promising and was supposed to give but sadly, it didn't. Glad to say that I stopped reading this because I see no point in continuing a book that's going to keep frustrating me and wanting me to slam my kindle against the wall (dw I didn't do that because kindles are hella expensive ifykyk💅🏻) I honestly don't have the patience to deal with immaturity, bullshit and unnecessary drama. Fuck that shit. Also the smut was repetitive and fell flat for me lol.
P.S. Lake, honey, you REALLY gotta read this book. It's called "how-to-not-be-a-doormat-and-fuck-toy-for-your-husband-101"🤪🤪🤪
safety squad (upto the point I read/DNFed):
- revenge trope
- forced proximity + arranged marriage
- dead sister's ex
- secret society
- "my wife"
- some OW drama
- no cheating
I should have known I should have known I should have known. A Goodreads rating of 4.52 with only a handful of negative reviews. Sus af. And yet I wanted to give this a try lmao. Somebody please tell me in which fucking universe is the H OTT/possessive. He's just using the h like his personal rag doll and fuck toy. And while I like that during spicy scenes, I like it more if the the MMC actually knows how to treat the FMC right otherwise. Everytime Lake grows a semblance of a backbone, Tyson fucks and then BAM she's back to being a doormat again. I cannot tell you the number of times I've felt a flicker of pride and hope when I saw her ready to stand up to him only for it to be snuffed out when he made her his, and I quote, whore. Extremely frustrating to read this book. Add to that the fact that the H fucked the h's sister (even though he didn't love her and had to do it for some fucked up society shit), it still gave me the ick and made me feel uncomfy - there were brief scenes/flashbacks showing us the H with the h's supposedly dead but not really dead sister (yeah, I spoiled some things for myself hehe) as well. I would have to liked see some actual jealousy scenes where Lake would have been intimate with another man and Tyson getting possessive over her. I mean, there was that one scene but that just wasn't enough. I skimmed most of the book since by 32% mark, I was bored, extremely agitated and eventually ended up DNFing because ✨️self care✨️. There were several plotholes and disconnects that I personally felt in the story. The premise was promising and was supposed to give but sadly, it didn't. Glad to say that I stopped reading this because I see no point in continuing a book that's going to keep frustrating me and wanting me to slam my kindle against the wall (dw I didn't do that because kindles are hella expensive ifykyk💅🏻) I honestly don't have the patience to deal with immaturity, bullshit and unnecessary drama. Fuck that shit. Also the smut was repetitive and fell flat for me lol.
P.S. Lake, honey, you REALLY gotta read this book. It's called "how-to-not-be-a-doormat-and-fuck-toy-for-your-husband-101"🤪🤪🤪
safety squad (upto the point I read/DNFed):
- revenge trope
- forced proximity + arranged marriage
- dead sister's ex
- secret society
- "my wife"
- some OW drama
- no cheating
June 6, 2023
Absolutely not
April 10, 2023
I have been hesitating to write a review for this book since it was the least of my favorite in the series, but Tyson’s book was my most anticipated read in the series. However, I am here to give an honest review in exchange for this ARC. Initially, I rated this as a 3, but I thought about it and narrowed it down to a 2. Please understand that we have different opinions, and please don’t be disheartened if mine is different. I respect if you love the book. I definitely respect how the book was written, and the characters came to be.
I was definitely super excited to read Tyson’s story cause I had anticipated his story ever since the Ritual due to his mysterious, charismatic, and Exhibtionistic nature. In The Sacrifice, we find another side of Tyson where we explore his past and his relationship with the Lords, and we finally get a better understanding of it.
We are definitely diving deeper into a tale of revenge, and he hijacks one of the Lord’s daughter’s wedding day, Laikyn, for the sake of vengeance. The beginning of the book is promising, and if you have read The Ritual and The Sinner, you will expect a lot of kinks and dark themes in this book. You will definitely not run out of smut scenes in this book.
However, in The Sacrifice, I expected Tyson to open up to his Exhibionistic side, like when he was introduced in The Ritual. Sadly, there isn’t, but that's ok. Tyson definitely is very OTT possessive/ jealous, and it has lots of degradation and more. At the beginning of the book, it’s a bit slow for the plot to move forward, leading to more questions, and its pacing picks up half of the book. After all, I read the book for the smut and the plot like all the other Lord's books. The more questions I had about the book, the more I didn’t even remember the characters' original motives.
I had high hopes for Lake, I thought she was a strong character in the beginning, and there were times that she showed or thought of it and cheered her on. I really supported her. She really had gone through a lot, and it’s pretty understandable since she’s traumatized. In the end, I feel sorry for her. I do read about dubcon and… I love degradation, but as a cliche for me to say this, I guess for me I didn’t feel an authentic connection between both characters. (Maybe that’s just me). The way their relationship began was questionable, and I didn’t support it. In my head, I guess I kept second-guessing their relationship, but then again, it may be just me. However, they kind of both worked it out in the end.
As I said, we had different journeys when we started and ended this book. I did really want to love this book, but the book wasn’t really for me. I just saw Tyson differently in the Ritual, and I didn’t fall for him as I did back then, which is fine. There were times were I put the book down cause I just got confused with questions.
It was great to see old characters like Colton and Ryat. Club Carnage really seems promising! I definitely admire Shantel as an author and her work, and I respect her decision and how it was written. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next characters. But for sure, if you love dark romance, revenge, and full of smut and unlocking new kinks, then be sure to check ALL TW/CW before you dive in!
💀 forced marriage
💀 Secret Society
💀 Revenge plot
💀 a lot of smut than romance
Rating 2 ⭐ ⭐
Spice Level 4/5🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
I was definitely super excited to read Tyson’s story cause I had anticipated his story ever since the Ritual due to his mysterious, charismatic, and Exhibtionistic nature. In The Sacrifice, we find another side of Tyson where we explore his past and his relationship with the Lords, and we finally get a better understanding of it.
We are definitely diving deeper into a tale of revenge, and he hijacks one of the Lord’s daughter’s wedding day, Laikyn, for the sake of vengeance. The beginning of the book is promising, and if you have read The Ritual and The Sinner, you will expect a lot of kinks and dark themes in this book. You will definitely not run out of smut scenes in this book.
However, in The Sacrifice, I expected Tyson to open up to his Exhibionistic side, like when he was introduced in The Ritual. Sadly, there isn’t, but that's ok. Tyson definitely is very OTT possessive/ jealous, and it has lots of degradation and more. At the beginning of the book, it’s a bit slow for the plot to move forward, leading to more questions, and its pacing picks up half of the book. After all, I read the book for the smut and the plot like all the other Lord's books. The more questions I had about the book, the more I didn’t even remember the characters' original motives.
I had high hopes for Lake, I thought she was a strong character in the beginning, and there were times that she showed or thought of it and cheered her on. I really supported her. She really had gone through a lot, and it’s pretty understandable since she’s traumatized. In the end, I feel sorry for her. I do read about dubcon and… I love degradation, but as a cliche for me to say this, I guess for me I didn’t feel an authentic connection between both characters. (Maybe that’s just me). The way their relationship began was questionable, and I didn’t support it. In my head, I guess I kept second-guessing their relationship, but then again, it may be just me. However, they kind of both worked it out in the end.
As I said, we had different journeys when we started and ended this book. I did really want to love this book, but the book wasn’t really for me. I just saw Tyson differently in the Ritual, and I didn’t fall for him as I did back then, which is fine. There were times were I put the book down cause I just got confused with questions.
It was great to see old characters like Colton and Ryat. Club Carnage really seems promising! I definitely admire Shantel as an author and her work, and I respect her decision and how it was written. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next characters. But for sure, if you love dark romance, revenge, and full of smut and unlocking new kinks, then be sure to check ALL TW/CW before you dive in!
💀 forced marriage
💀 Secret Society
💀 Revenge plot
💀 a lot of smut than romance
Rating 2 ⭐ ⭐
Spice Level 4/5🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
April 13, 2024
The streak I must say is going well
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