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The Transformation Trilogy #2
Break Her: A Dark Beauty and the Beast Fantasy Romance
I wanted her. She was just two floors away from me here in my castle. And some piece of her—naïve and inexperienced—wanted me. The man who was doomed to die at her hand. I could mostly ignore that fact, now that I was used to her presence, and my intermittent lust. But I wondered if not telling her about it was a bigger betrayal than not telling her about my arrangement with her father. If she did manage her Ascension—and when she found out what that meant—then she would know the truth. That there hadn’t been a moment, ever since we met, that I didn’t see my death inside her eyes. I could only hope that the shame of her learning that would be absolved by a second that I had loved her anyway.
Break A Dark Beauty and the Beast Fantasy Romance novel is the second book in the Transformation Trilogy, about Rhaim the All-Beast, a cruel beast mage doomed to die at the hands of the woman he must protect at all costs, and Lisane, the sheltered Princess of Tears, who has been given into his care and who needs him to teach her magic so she can be free—no matter how much it might hurt her.
Break A Dark Beauty and the Beast Fantasy Romance novel is the second book in the Transformation Trilogy, about Rhaim the All-Beast, a cruel beast mage doomed to die at the hands of the woman he must protect at all costs, and Lisane, the sheltered Princess of Tears, who has been given into his care and who needs him to teach her magic so she can be free—no matter how much it might hurt her.
310 pages, Paperback
Published May 5, 2023
584 people are currently reading
5620 people want to read
About the author
Cassie Alexander
134 books1,461 followersSign up to Cassie's newsletter for sexy bonus scenes on all her books here!
US links:
https://linktr.ee/cassiealexander
Hi there! I'm a registered nurse and author. As Cassandra, I wrote the Year of the Nurse: A Covid-19 Pandemic Memoir. As Cassie, I've written numerous (and very hot!) paranormal romances, sometimes with my friend Kara Lockharte. I live in the Bay Area with one husband, two cats, and one million succulents.
US links:
https://linktr.ee/cassiealexander
Hi there! I'm a registered nurse and author. As Cassandra, I wrote the Year of the Nurse: A Covid-19 Pandemic Memoir. As Cassie, I've written numerous (and very hot!) paranormal romances, sometimes with my friend Kara Lockharte. I live in the Bay Area with one husband, two cats, and one million succulents.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 479 reviews
May 20, 2023
Rating: 4.5 stars
As far as sequels go, BREAK HER is a solid one! While the plot does take a bit of a back seat in favor of the romance, this interlude between the premise of the first book and whatever awaits us in the final installment served a specific purpose: solidify the relationship between Lisane and Rhaim. And it did just that!
In this book, we get a lot of development for both of the main characters. Lisane breaks further and further away from the secluded, sheltered princess she was, testing the limits of her magic and her strength. However, she also learns so much more of herself as a woman, exploring her sexuality, her desires, and her own feelings toward Rhaim. On his part, we also get to see a new aspect of Rhaim—still as broody and morally gray as ever—but also softer, gentler with Lisane and extremely protective of this fragile bond blooming between them. The interactions between them were my favorite! The author did an incredible job balancing sexual tension, desire and the growth of the trust between them. We get a lot more spice than we did in the first book, which I was extremely happy about (3.5 spice rating), and we still haven’t unleashed the full panty-dropping potential within Rhaim. My expectations for the final book are OFF THE CHARTS!
Once again, I loved how subtly the author wove elements of Beauty and the Beast within the story. If I had to pinpoint where we’re at, I’d say we’ve reached the happiness before the extreme heartbreak. And perhaps this is the reason why I was missing just a tiny bit of plot to lead up to the incredible cliffhanger. Even so, my jaw was literally on the floor, and August cannot come soon enough.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
As far as sequels go, BREAK HER is a solid one! While the plot does take a bit of a back seat in favor of the romance, this interlude between the premise of the first book and whatever awaits us in the final installment served a specific purpose: solidify the relationship between Lisane and Rhaim. And it did just that!
In this book, we get a lot of development for both of the main characters. Lisane breaks further and further away from the secluded, sheltered princess she was, testing the limits of her magic and her strength. However, she also learns so much more of herself as a woman, exploring her sexuality, her desires, and her own feelings toward Rhaim. On his part, we also get to see a new aspect of Rhaim—still as broody and morally gray as ever—but also softer, gentler with Lisane and extremely protective of this fragile bond blooming between them. The interactions between them were my favorite! The author did an incredible job balancing sexual tension, desire and the growth of the trust between them. We get a lot more spice than we did in the first book, which I was extremely happy about (3.5 spice rating), and we still haven’t unleashed the full panty-dropping potential within Rhaim. My expectations for the final book are OFF THE CHARTS!
Once again, I loved how subtly the author wove elements of Beauty and the Beast within the story. If I had to pinpoint where we’re at, I’d say we’ve reached the happiness before the extreme heartbreak. And perhaps this is the reason why I was missing just a tiny bit of plot to lead up to the incredible cliffhanger. Even so, my jaw was literally on the floor, and August cannot come soon enough.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
July 30, 2023
5/5 Y'all... I loved this.
TROPES:
~Beauty and the Beast retelling
~mage hero/princess heroine
~age gap
~monster fucker
~forced proximity
~soulmate vibes
~touch her & die
I'm not sure anything could surpass this book... except for the first one, which was amazing. This is the second book in the Transformation Trilogy by Cassie Alexander. I loved it.
In this book, Rhaim and Lisane get closer! There's more spice in this one than the first one, which I genuinely liked. Cassie has a way of writing spice that is SO tension filled! I'm not a huge fan of slowburns but this series has really caught my attention.
There's more magic, shifters, revenge, mystery, and intrigue in this book! Twists and turns galore. I really enjoyed it and I cannot wait for book 3 to come out in a few days! This one was amazing.. I have such a bad book hangover.
This is just me requesting you to read it. Don't be shy. If you love retellings, a beast who is really a beast, and magic- this one is for you! <3
TROPES:
~Beauty and the Beast retelling
~mage hero/princess heroine
~age gap
~monster fucker
~forced proximity
~soulmate vibes
~touch her & die
I'm not sure anything could surpass this book... except for the first one, which was amazing. This is the second book in the Transformation Trilogy by Cassie Alexander. I loved it.
In this book, Rhaim and Lisane get closer! There's more spice in this one than the first one, which I genuinely liked. Cassie has a way of writing spice that is SO tension filled! I'm not a huge fan of slowburns but this series has really caught my attention.
There's more magic, shifters, revenge, mystery, and intrigue in this book! Twists and turns galore. I really enjoyed it and I cannot wait for book 3 to come out in a few days! This one was amazing.. I have such a bad book hangover.
This is just me requesting you to read it. Don't be shy. If you love retellings, a beast who is really a beast, and magic- this one is for you! <3
October 15, 2023
Mm. The first book was really good. Loved the magic system, good world building. So again - first book amazing.
Now this one - it’s still something there. Not much, a bit. Her power is growing. Their relationship definitely progresses. But what’s with that ending? It was too forced. Not much sense to it. A tiny bit disappointed. Not sure I’ll rush to get third book.
There were more memorable moments in the first book.
And I also got a version where at the end says “keep reading for a sneak peek of Break her” so that was a big mistake. Cause there is no sneak peek of Make her, but instead it’s from the same book we are reading. I think it was a bit rushed.
Now this one - it’s still something there. Not much, a bit. Her power is growing. Their relationship definitely progresses. But what’s with that ending? It was too forced. Not much sense to it. A tiny bit disappointed. Not sure I’ll rush to get third book.
There were more memorable moments in the first book.
And I also got a version where at the end says “keep reading for a sneak peek of Break her” so that was a big mistake. Cause there is no sneak peek of Make her, but instead it’s from the same book we are reading. I think it was a bit rushed.
August 27, 2023
I have been waiting for this sequel for months and so so happy it’s finally here!! 👀
The sequel starts off right where we left off on book 1, after the attack at the castle. As the two of them set off to gather supplies and help for reconstruction, Lisane wants to continue her training to become a mage, but Rhaim is not so easily convinced. There is too much at stake for Lisane in becoming a mage, and the last thing Rhaim expected was to start getting attached… could he be developing feelings for his little moth?
Their dynamic is strongly rooted on a dominant and submissive power play! Prepare yourselves for an entire new level of sexual torture with humiliation 🥵 Rhaim is the ultimate alpha male, Lisane is his and he will let no one have her now that he’s had a taste. Also was my first time reading about a guy with a 🍆 piercing and wow 👀 The NSFW images in the ebook were a pleasant surprise 😗 and the ending had me SCREAMING!!! who else can’t wait for book 3???
The sequel starts off right where we left off on book 1, after the attack at the castle. As the two of them set off to gather supplies and help for reconstruction, Lisane wants to continue her training to become a mage, but Rhaim is not so easily convinced. There is too much at stake for Lisane in becoming a mage, and the last thing Rhaim expected was to start getting attached… could he be developing feelings for his little moth?
Their dynamic is strongly rooted on a dominant and submissive power play! Prepare yourselves for an entire new level of sexual torture with humiliation 🥵 Rhaim is the ultimate alpha male, Lisane is his and he will let no one have her now that he’s had a taste. Also was my first time reading about a guy with a 🍆 piercing and wow 👀 The NSFW images in the ebook were a pleasant surprise 😗 and the ending had me SCREAMING!!! who else can’t wait for book 3???
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January 6, 20254.25/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
2/5 🌶️
May 21, 2023
4.5 stars
3.5 peppers
If I flip the calendar page to August, will I travel through time?
For a moment I glimpsed the happiness these characters could have if there weren’t the whole fact that he literally knows that she’ll bring about his end. My heart was fluttering, and other parts of my body were alive for other reasons entirely. Rhaim, you beast of a man, I love you when you’re a monster, I love you when you’re a complicated man with hidden and profound depths. What does that say about me? That clearly I was born to be Belle and I have always been living in my Beauty and the Beast era.
Break Her is the second book in the Transformation series and picks up immediately where the first book had left off. If you want to read the review of the first book, Bend Her, you can do so here.
More than moving the plot forward, Break Her focuses more on the relationship between Rhaim and Lisane, and also them figuring things out about themselves. For Lisane, it’s how to live in the world now that she’s no longer in a gilded cage, understanding her powers more, and exploring her sexual desires. For Rhaim, it’s learning the extent of his feelings for Lisane and basically growing more in touch with his human side—a human side that I loved. I feel like this book highlights a sweeter side to Rhaim that makes him even more irresistible to me. Don’t misunderstand me, he’s not sweet and he’s not a hero. He’s incredibly morally gray, but there’s nothing that gets me more than such a powerful man willing to do whatever it takes for the woman he’s falling in love with. So yes, the book was a little slower compared to the first book, but I lived for every step forward we made with Lisane and Rhaim. Plus, there were several spicy scenes more that were *chef’s kiss.*
The ending made me want to toss my ereader across the bed and cry. August can’t come soon enough.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own!
3.5 peppers
If I flip the calendar page to August, will I travel through time?
For a moment I glimpsed the happiness these characters could have if there weren’t the whole fact that he literally knows that she’ll bring about his end. My heart was fluttering, and other parts of my body were alive for other reasons entirely. Rhaim, you beast of a man, I love you when you’re a monster, I love you when you’re a complicated man with hidden and profound depths. What does that say about me? That clearly I was born to be Belle and I have always been living in my Beauty and the Beast era.
Break Her is the second book in the Transformation series and picks up immediately where the first book had left off. If you want to read the review of the first book, Bend Her, you can do so here.
More than moving the plot forward, Break Her focuses more on the relationship between Rhaim and Lisane, and also them figuring things out about themselves. For Lisane, it’s how to live in the world now that she’s no longer in a gilded cage, understanding her powers more, and exploring her sexual desires. For Rhaim, it’s learning the extent of his feelings for Lisane and basically growing more in touch with his human side—a human side that I loved. I feel like this book highlights a sweeter side to Rhaim that makes him even more irresistible to me. Don’t misunderstand me, he’s not sweet and he’s not a hero. He’s incredibly morally gray, but there’s nothing that gets me more than such a powerful man willing to do whatever it takes for the woman he’s falling in love with. So yes, the book was a little slower compared to the first book, but I lived for every step forward we made with Lisane and Rhaim. Plus, there were several spicy scenes more that were *chef’s kiss.*
The ending made me want to toss my ereader across the bed and cry. August can’t come soon enough.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own!
May 7, 2023
Break Her is the second installment in a new Dark Fantasy Romance series and is a Beauty and the Beast retelling ~
⇢ What to expect:
∘ Beauty and the Beast retelling
∘ Powerful Mage x Sheltered Princess
∘ Intriguing Characters
∘ Morally Grey MMC
∘ Dual POV
∘ Fast-paced
∘ Light BDSM ∘ Dom/sub dynamic
∘ Magic & magical creatures
∘ Loyal and cute spider-cat
⇢ Tropes:
∘ Enemies to Lovers
∘ Slowburn
∘ Age Gap
∘ "Touch her and you die"
∘ Forced Proximity
∘ He falls first
⤏ Thoughts
Following the events at the end of book one, Rhaim staked his claim on Lisane and issued a warning to the other mages and her family, threatening anyone who dared to harm her.
Although the setting has changed somewhat, the worldbuilding remains impressive, and I found myself wanting to get lost in the woods with Lisane.
For the first time, Lisane is experiencing life outside, learning about the ways of the world, while also training to become a mage, and meeting new people. It was heart-wrenching to read about her struggle to understand things that we take for granted. Throughout it all, Rhaim kept a watchful eye on her and showed genuine concern for her well-being, which was a refreshing change.
I loved seeing this softer side of Rhaim and how he tried to show her that he cared, even if it was hard for him because he was not used to doing something like this. I also liked learning more about his past and how he became the man he is today.
⤏ Conclusion
This book focuses on their relationship and Lisane's personal growth, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The pacing and magical elements of the novel are just as captivating as in the first book, making for an engaging and quick read. I look forward to seeing how the series concludes.
⇢ What to expect:
∘ Beauty and the Beast retelling
∘ Powerful Mage x Sheltered Princess
∘ Intriguing Characters
∘ Morally Grey MMC
∘ Dual POV
∘ Fast-paced
∘ Light BDSM ∘ Dom/sub dynamic
∘ Magic & magical creatures
∘ Loyal and cute spider-cat
⇢ Tropes:
∘ Enemies to Lovers
∘ Slowburn
∘ Age Gap
∘ "Touch her and you die"
∘ Forced Proximity
∘ He falls first
“If she did manage her Ascension— and when she found out what that meant— then she would know the truth. That there hadn’t been a moment, ever since we met, that I didn’t see my death inside her eyes.”
⤏ Thoughts
Following the events at the end of book one, Rhaim staked his claim on Lisane and issued a warning to the other mages and her family, threatening anyone who dared to harm her.
Although the setting has changed somewhat, the worldbuilding remains impressive, and I found myself wanting to get lost in the woods with Lisane.
For the first time, Lisane is experiencing life outside, learning about the ways of the world, while also training to become a mage, and meeting new people. It was heart-wrenching to read about her struggle to understand things that we take for granted. Throughout it all, Rhaim kept a watchful eye on her and showed genuine concern for her well-being, which was a refreshing change.
I loved seeing this softer side of Rhaim and how he tried to show her that he cared, even if it was hard for him because he was not used to doing something like this. I also liked learning more about his past and how he became the man he is today.
⤏ Conclusion
This book focuses on their relationship and Lisane's personal growth, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The pacing and magical elements of the novel are just as captivating as in the first book, making for an engaging and quick read. I look forward to seeing how the series concludes.
“I could only hope that that shame of her learning that would be absolved by a second realization: that I had loved her anyway. For as much as a creature such as I was capable of it.”
May 15, 2023
I enjoyed Bend Her a lot and was looking forward to reading Break Her. I really enjoyed Break Her as well. Maybe even more so than Bend Her.
The level of detail was good. The characters remained good, and I liked the new secondary characters, but I sure missed seeing more of Finx. We see him in this one. Just nowhere near as much. Without spoiling this, I will say that the continued tension build is killing me. I need book 3 ASAP just to break up that tension build. That cliffhanger got me better than the first one, and I need to know how this ends immediately.
My heat rating is based on the amount of occurrence, length of scenes, how explicit the scenes are, and how filthy/unconventional the scenes are. This rates maybe a 3/5.
The level of detail was good. The characters remained good, and I liked the new secondary characters, but I sure missed seeing more of Finx. We see him in this one. Just nowhere near as much. Without spoiling this, I will say that the continued tension build is killing me. I need book 3 ASAP just to break up that tension build. That cliffhanger got me better than the first one, and I need to know how this ends immediately.
My heat rating is based on the amount of occurrence, length of scenes, how explicit the scenes are, and how filthy/unconventional the scenes are. This rates maybe a 3/5.
April 17, 2024
Omg!!! 🤭 I’ve surely never read anything as spicy as this book 😂 god! 🔥 That’s the first good thing about it. However, I need to talk about the romantic part of it, the fantasy and everything else. I looooove this world created by Cassie. All the magic beasts are completely amazing and I’m in love with all of them. Finx is my baby and I loved that spider-cat with all my heart. He’s so cute, innocent, everything!!! I also love Rhaim and Lisane. The chemistry between them is stunning and incredible. The curse completely breaks my heart, because I’m starting to believe that what can kill Rhaim is being loved and then discovery that that love was no love at all. I hope this has an happy end, Cassie! 😂 Don’t break my heart, for god’s sake!
November 14, 2024
4.5 🌟
I am fully invested in this series. Not only did I prime this book immediately after finishing Bend Her but I also consumed it in 24 hours.
I am really intrigued by this whole world that has been created. The suspense build up toward The All Beast’s supposed demise is keeping me on edge and the chemistry in this book was so good.
I loved that Break Her actually was more about a self discovery for her and gifted opportunities to live a normal experience that she never had before. It was also fun in seeing the beast in community service.
That ending was a massive cliffhanger as well and now I’m about to open the finale to this trilogy because I’m too impatient to wait to find out what happens!
I am fully invested in this series. Not only did I prime this book immediately after finishing Bend Her but I also consumed it in 24 hours.
I am really intrigued by this whole world that has been created. The suspense build up toward The All Beast’s supposed demise is keeping me on edge and the chemistry in this book was so good.
I loved that Break Her actually was more about a self discovery for her and gifted opportunities to live a normal experience that she never had before. It was also fun in seeing the beast in community service.
That ending was a massive cliffhanger as well and now I’m about to open the finale to this trilogy because I’m too impatient to wait to find out what happens!
April 11, 2023
While this is a good story I did not feel a huge movement in the forward story. The characters have a bit of movement but nothing like in the last book. There is a bit of action but this is mostly suspense. What will he do to her to bring about her powers? Will they fall for each other? This one does have more BDSM elements in it than the last one. I still like the way this story is going and look forward to the next installment in this trilogy.
I highly recommend reading or listening to the first in the series as this one continues right where the last book left off.
I did listen to this on audio. Victoria Mei and Matthew Holland are the narrators. I love listening to Ms Mei. She brings so much out of each character. Matthew Holland did a wonderful job
I highly recommend reading or listening to the first in the series as this one continues right where the last book left off.
I did listen to this on audio. Victoria Mei and Matthew Holland are the narrators. I love listening to Ms Mei. She brings so much out of each character. Matthew Holland did a wonderful job
May 15, 2023
This is the second book in a dark fantasy Beauty and the Beast retelling. Lisane is a princess and Rhaime is a mage who is working to teach Lisane magic. Throughout this book the reader sees Lisane grow from her sheltered princess upbringing to embrace her magic and the world around her. Lisane and Rhaim also grow closer as they work together until a secret comes to light and Lisane is thrown back into a life she no longer wants.
April 30, 2023
After Lisane's ex-fiance tries to take her "back" from Rhaim, all hell breaks loose. When he finally comes back, ahead is both relieved and angry with him. Until, that is, he takes her to a place she's always longed to be - outside. I cannot believe the tension between these two, my goodness. I can't say more without spoilers, but I'm so glad I was able to ARC for this one, and I need the third one asap!!!
Finx is the best, and I'm so happy that Lisane found Jelena to help her through this next stretch!
Finx is the best, and I'm so happy that Lisane found Jelena to help her through this next stretch!
March 17, 2024
I couldn’t tell you three actual plot points of this book. The first one had me hooked but this one lost me
July 2, 2023
I just honestly need to read everything Cassie has written. The first book in the trilogy was fantastic but this second book was deliciously perfect. I can not express how much I love Rhaim. The mysterious plot and the tension Lisane and Rhaim have as characters give me everything I want.
The way Cassie writes the spicy scenes is just fantastic and I’m eating up every word. The commanding, praising and obsessive nature this man is giving has me weak.
The ending hurt my heart but I’m so ready for the third book! Hurry up August.
Also, I highly recommend the audiobooks for this series Victoria Mei & Matthew Holland do a fantastic job.
If you love:
🔹Dark Retellings
🔹Magic System
🔹Keeping Her Safe & Protected
🔹Teaching The FMC
🔹Tension & Angst
🔹Fantastic Spice
Genre/Type: Dark Romance 18+
APK: Kindle / Audiobook
Audio Length: 6hrs 29mins
Pages: 313
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Book 2 In The Transformation Trilogy
Tropes or Themes: Dark, Fantasy, Beauty & The Beast Retelling, Age Gap, Magic, Mage, Princess, Light BDSM, Submission, Piercing, Primal, Monster, Violence, Injuries & Blood
Check Triggers ⚠️
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Scribd | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
The way Cassie writes the spicy scenes is just fantastic and I’m eating up every word. The commanding, praising and obsessive nature this man is giving has me weak.
The ending hurt my heart but I’m so ready for the third book! Hurry up August.
Also, I highly recommend the audiobooks for this series Victoria Mei & Matthew Holland do a fantastic job.
If you love:
🔹Dark Retellings
🔹Magic System
🔹Keeping Her Safe & Protected
🔹Teaching The FMC
🔹Tension & Angst
🔹Fantastic Spice
Genre/Type: Dark Romance 18+
APK: Kindle / Audiobook
Audio Length: 6hrs 29mins
Pages: 313
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Book 2 In The Transformation Trilogy
Tropes or Themes: Dark, Fantasy, Beauty & The Beast Retelling, Age Gap, Magic, Mage, Princess, Light BDSM, Submission, Piercing, Primal, Monster, Violence, Injuries & Blood
Check Triggers ⚠️
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Scribd | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
December 31, 2023
I loved the first book "Bend Her" so I was so excited to read the next book "Break Her". Although a solid sequel to the first book there were a couple of things that were a step back.
Starting with what I felt was a step back to the first book was the lack of action as compared to the first book. "Bend Her" does start off with an action scene but that's it until the end. There's still a war going on in this world and it's treated like almost an afterthought. However, I can forgive some of that because the real story in the love story between Rhiam and Lisane.
The sexual tension between Rhiam and Lisane is an all time high in this sequel. Not much as changed too much as they're both fighter their desires for each other. However, they finally shared a bed together and now I understand that feeling that other dark romance readers have when characters finally share that bed together. Also, Finx is still adorable as Hell.
Whereas the first book was a perfect blend of romance, sexual tension, fantasy, and action, this sequel held back on the action. For others that might not be a problem but I loved having all that being blended together in a story. Luckily though it is teased that in the third and final book it will be an all out war.
Starting with what I felt was a step back to the first book was the lack of action as compared to the first book. "Bend Her" does start off with an action scene but that's it until the end. There's still a war going on in this world and it's treated like almost an afterthought. However, I can forgive some of that because the real story in the love story between Rhiam and Lisane.
The sexual tension between Rhiam and Lisane is an all time high in this sequel. Not much as changed too much as they're both fighter their desires for each other. However, they finally shared a bed together and now I understand that feeling that other dark romance readers have when characters finally share that bed together. Also, Finx is still adorable as Hell.
Whereas the first book was a perfect blend of romance, sexual tension, fantasy, and action, this sequel held back on the action. For others that might not be a problem but I loved having all that being blended together in a story. Luckily though it is teased that in the third and final book it will be an all out war.
April 15, 2023
*Audiobook review*
Back with book 2 in this trilogy, we start right where book 1 left off. After an intense stand off with Lisane's father and his troops, we fall into what feels like a major backstep in her and Rhaim's relationship. I had a bit of trouble getting into this story because of this loss of momentum and it caused some frustration for me as it didn't feel natural in the story development. After about the halfway mark it started to pick up again and it was easier to reconnect with the characters. I definitely questioned some of the choices made by these characters, but I really enjoyed the action scenes. I think the author does a great job of creating vivid settings and descriptions of the deathless attacks and I would love to see these scene expanded more in the last book.
The steam was a little higher in this book which is always a plus for me. The narration, as with book 1, was very well done and it helped me stay in the story when I was finding it difficult to connect with the characters. I really enjoy Victoria's performance in this series and find that her pacing works well for me. I still think that #spidercat steals the show here even if he does creep me out. His protectiveness over Lisane combined with his childlike innocence brings a bit of joy to this otherwise tragic story.
3.5/5
Back with book 2 in this trilogy, we start right where book 1 left off. After an intense stand off with Lisane's father and his troops, we fall into what feels like a major backstep in her and Rhaim's relationship. I had a bit of trouble getting into this story because of this loss of momentum and it caused some frustration for me as it didn't feel natural in the story development. After about the halfway mark it started to pick up again and it was easier to reconnect with the characters. I definitely questioned some of the choices made by these characters, but I really enjoyed the action scenes. I think the author does a great job of creating vivid settings and descriptions of the deathless attacks and I would love to see these scene expanded more in the last book.
The steam was a little higher in this book which is always a plus for me. The narration, as with book 1, was very well done and it helped me stay in the story when I was finding it difficult to connect with the characters. I really enjoy Victoria's performance in this series and find that her pacing works well for me. I still think that #spidercat steals the show here even if he does creep me out. His protectiveness over Lisane combined with his childlike innocence brings a bit of joy to this otherwise tragic story.
3.5/5
April 14, 2023
I received this audio book 🔈📕as an ALC to listen to.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️out of 5️⃣ for Story
🌶️🌶️🌶️out of 5️⃣ for spice
🔈🔈🔈🔈🔈 out of 5️⃣ for narration
Tropes:
🥀 Magic
🥀 Beasts
🥀 Touch her and 💀
🥀 Anti-Hero
🥀 Dark Beauty and the Beast retelling
Guys. Guys!!! If you thought book 1 of the series was good, holy crap! Book 2 takes the freaken cake. Not only was the continued story amazing, but the relationship between Rhaim and Lisane becomes so much more. Mrs Cassie Alexander did it again and gave us a freaken masterpiece!
While she focused on the world building during the first book, the second book focuses on the ever growing relationship between Rhaim and Lisane. This book shows us love, anger, desire, betrayal and so much more! And if you know me, you know I am all about the spice. Well, this book was definitely a lot spicier than the first book.
Once again, the audiobook was fire 🔥🔥🔥!! Both Matthew Holland and Victoria Mei return to voice Rhaim and Lisane. And if you liked them in book 1, you are absolutely going to adore them and fall in love with their portrayal of our beloved characters in this book. The did such a great job putting us back into their world and made every chapter come alive. They absolutely killed the narration and I can’t wait to get my hands on Book Three of the story!! 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️out of 5️⃣ for Story
🌶️🌶️🌶️out of 5️⃣ for spice
🔈🔈🔈🔈🔈 out of 5️⃣ for narration
Tropes:
🥀 Magic
🥀 Beasts
🥀 Touch her and 💀
🥀 Anti-Hero
🥀 Dark Beauty and the Beast retelling
Guys. Guys!!! If you thought book 1 of the series was good, holy crap! Book 2 takes the freaken cake. Not only was the continued story amazing, but the relationship between Rhaim and Lisane becomes so much more. Mrs Cassie Alexander did it again and gave us a freaken masterpiece!
While she focused on the world building during the first book, the second book focuses on the ever growing relationship between Rhaim and Lisane. This book shows us love, anger, desire, betrayal and so much more! And if you know me, you know I am all about the spice. Well, this book was definitely a lot spicier than the first book.
Once again, the audiobook was fire 🔥🔥🔥!! Both Matthew Holland and Victoria Mei return to voice Rhaim and Lisane. And if you liked them in book 1, you are absolutely going to adore them and fall in love with their portrayal of our beloved characters in this book. The did such a great job putting us back into their world and made every chapter come alive. They absolutely killed the narration and I can’t wait to get my hands on Book Three of the story!! 🖤
May 31, 2023
Have your neighbors ever called the cops because of the screaming they heard coming from your house?
No?
Neither have I but I was concerned it would happen while reading this book. One of my neighbors did in fact check on me after me audibly screaming through parts of this book one night.
Ooooh y'all. I finally got a bit of a release after how tense the first book left me even if this started a smidge slow.
Picking right where book one leaves off and sweeping us into the wtf unknown. Rhaim is... Rhaim is a man... A person? I don't want to spoil this for anyone but he's so soft and squishy. And not. Like a sweet demonic person, wizard, creature.
THE RHAIM CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT IS REASON ENOUGH TO READ THIS.
Also the tension relief 😉 😉 might be something that we all need and this book may offer some semblance of that.
Lisane does what we all expect from a female in a fantasy book and does the whole push back, explore, experience, live. And it's so satisfying after her spending her entire life locked up. Her joy in the mundane makes my mundane life that much more enjoyable.
Solid book. Solid book that made me feel things. Omg so many things. And I'm left tense and teased again.
I should start doing video reviews cause I feel like this review really lacks the facial expressions required to show you all what I mean but just trust me that this series is gonna be everything.
I received an arc of this book and if it sucked, I'd have told you but it didn't so you need it.
No?
Neither have I but I was concerned it would happen while reading this book. One of my neighbors did in fact check on me after me audibly screaming through parts of this book one night.
Ooooh y'all. I finally got a bit of a release after how tense the first book left me even if this started a smidge slow.
Picking right where book one leaves off and sweeping us into the wtf unknown. Rhaim is... Rhaim is a man... A person? I don't want to spoil this for anyone but he's so soft and squishy. And not. Like a sweet demonic person, wizard, creature.
THE RHAIM CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT IS REASON ENOUGH TO READ THIS.
Also the tension relief 😉 😉 might be something that we all need and this book may offer some semblance of that.
Lisane does what we all expect from a female in a fantasy book and does the whole push back, explore, experience, live. And it's so satisfying after her spending her entire life locked up. Her joy in the mundane makes my mundane life that much more enjoyable.
Solid book. Solid book that made me feel things. Omg so many things. And I'm left tense and teased again.
I should start doing video reviews cause I feel like this review really lacks the facial expressions required to show you all what I mean but just trust me that this series is gonna be everything.
I received an arc of this book and if it sucked, I'd have told you but it didn't so you need it.
August 18, 2023
This was unexpectedly cozy and very very spicy. But also SO COZY 🤗
“I wish I had some way of trapping you to me.”
“You do not need a leash to keep me,” he said, kissing me softly, before giving me a bittersweet smile. “I promise I am yours.”
“For how long?”
“Until my dying breath, little moth, or for however long you want me.”
I reached up to play my fingertips against his lips, and trace the outline of his jaw. “And what if I want you for forever?”
He bowed his head to mine and breathed. “Then even when the end happens, it will come too soon."
They finally gave in and the horny softness guide them, finally! I loved all the little moments we got to see between Rhaim and Lisane - so precious 💞
The ending was a bit rushed and a bit ooc for Lisane but I'm 90% sure she's pulling the good old "i pretend i hate you bc i think you'll die otherwise so i leave and break my soul apart along with your own". Hopefully!
Also also! The tavern bedroom scene was so hot... And the boot scene. Omg THE BOOT SCENE!! 🔥
“I wish I had some way of trapping you to me.”
“You do not need a leash to keep me,” he said, kissing me softly, before giving me a bittersweet smile. “I promise I am yours.”
“For how long?”
“Until my dying breath, little moth, or for however long you want me.”
I reached up to play my fingertips against his lips, and trace the outline of his jaw. “And what if I want you for forever?”
He bowed his head to mine and breathed. “Then even when the end happens, it will come too soon."
They finally gave in and the horny softness guide them, finally! I loved all the little moments we got to see between Rhaim and Lisane - so precious 💞
The ending was a bit rushed and a bit ooc for Lisane but I'm 90% sure she's pulling the good old "i pretend i hate you bc i think you'll die otherwise so i leave and break my soul apart along with your own". Hopefully!
Also also! The tavern bedroom scene was so hot... And the boot scene. Omg THE BOOT SCENE!! 🔥
May 18, 2023
My second ARC!
I did a quick reread of the first in the series via Audible before I launched into Break Her. And Cassie? Still mad at you for that ending but I also love you so 🤷🏻♀️ The second in the series picks up right where the first ended so I was less mad.
In this sequel Lisane learns more about her magic and how to harness it. She gets to experience the outside world for the first time and really come to terms with the sacrifice that she’ll have to make in order to continue her journey into magery.
We also see Rhaim’s heart softening a bit. He’s falling for the one thing that will bring about his demise and he’s accepted it. He even revisits someone instrumental from his past and asks them to care for Lisane when he dies.
And the spice that was missing… well we’ve found it! If you’re not into bondage you may want to look elsewhere…
Anxiously awaiting the final installment!
I did a quick reread of the first in the series via Audible before I launched into Break Her. And Cassie? Still mad at you for that ending but I also love you so 🤷🏻♀️ The second in the series picks up right where the first ended so I was less mad.
In this sequel Lisane learns more about her magic and how to harness it. She gets to experience the outside world for the first time and really come to terms with the sacrifice that she’ll have to make in order to continue her journey into magery.
We also see Rhaim’s heart softening a bit. He’s falling for the one thing that will bring about his demise and he’s accepted it. He even revisits someone instrumental from his past and asks them to care for Lisane when he dies.
And the spice that was missing… well we’ve found it! If you’re not into bondage you may want to look elsewhere…
Anxiously awaiting the final installment!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2023
Break Her picks up right where we left off in Bend Her. I like the story continues on. Cassie defiantly keeps with the plot and the magic system and world building continue to grow and build which I did enjoy. We also get a lot more growth out of our two main characters.
While the story is good, I was wanting more chemistry and romance between the two characters, and more spice as this is book two. The Dom/sub relationship does grow more but at this point I kind of want the tension to finally snap.
The story is good, the concept has potential to grown and the writing style is really good! I think if you’re into more fantasy/ world of war craft type stories and light on the romance aspect, you would absolutely enjoy this.
I listened to the audio book for this and I love both of the voice actors performances, their voices are quiet soothing and fit the characters and setting.
**I did receive this as an ALC and have voluntarily provided a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
While the story is good, I was wanting more chemistry and romance between the two characters, and more spice as this is book two. The Dom/sub relationship does grow more but at this point I kind of want the tension to finally snap.
The story is good, the concept has potential to grown and the writing style is really good! I think if you’re into more fantasy/ world of war craft type stories and light on the romance aspect, you would absolutely enjoy this.
I listened to the audio book for this and I love both of the voice actors performances, their voices are quiet soothing and fit the characters and setting.
**I did receive this as an ALC and have voluntarily provided a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
May 1, 2023
Break Her is the second installment in the Transformation Trilogy by Cassie Alexander. This is a dark fantasy romance retailing of Beauty and the Beast.
It does a great job of picking up where the last book left off and really engages the reader with answering the question; “What happened to Lisane and Rhaim’s story”
I enjoyed reading this book. The world building and writing style are really good. We continue the journey with Rhaim helping Lisane to master her magical skills. The main characters chemistry and attraction for each other continues to grow. The side character Finx brings some humor to the story. This book has war, magic, some BDSM, and suspense. The cliffhanger has left me heartbroken and wanting to know what happens next. What will the next book bring? I can’t wait to see how their story ends.
*I did receive this as an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own*
It does a great job of picking up where the last book left off and really engages the reader with answering the question; “What happened to Lisane and Rhaim’s story”
I enjoyed reading this book. The world building and writing style are really good. We continue the journey with Rhaim helping Lisane to master her magical skills. The main characters chemistry and attraction for each other continues to grow. The side character Finx brings some humor to the story. This book has war, magic, some BDSM, and suspense. The cliffhanger has left me heartbroken and wanting to know what happens next. What will the next book bring? I can’t wait to see how their story ends.
*I did receive this as an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own*
April 15, 2023
3/5📚 4/5🎧
Break Her is book two in the Transformation Trilogy. Cassie Alexander’s story continues where Bend Her left off with Lisane in danger and Rhaim confronting their attackers. I had a harder time getting into this book. I enjoyed the new side characters and main character development. Lisane continues her epic journey in magery and cementing her freedom. Rhaim’s stone-cold demeanor toward his Moth softens a bit while maintaining their disciplined dynamic. The spice builds in this book. Phinx stole the show for me in Break Her. Their exchanges with Lisane made me laugh and their moments with Rhaim made me smirk with triumph.
Victoria Mei and Matthew Holland continue to impress in their performances of Lisane and Rhaim. I can’t wait to listen to the epic conclusion to this dark beauty and the beast retelling in book three, Make Her!
Break Her is book two in the Transformation Trilogy. Cassie Alexander’s story continues where Bend Her left off with Lisane in danger and Rhaim confronting their attackers. I had a harder time getting into this book. I enjoyed the new side characters and main character development. Lisane continues her epic journey in magery and cementing her freedom. Rhaim’s stone-cold demeanor toward his Moth softens a bit while maintaining their disciplined dynamic. The spice builds in this book. Phinx stole the show for me in Break Her. Their exchanges with Lisane made me laugh and their moments with Rhaim made me smirk with triumph.
Victoria Mei and Matthew Holland continue to impress in their performances of Lisane and Rhaim. I can’t wait to listen to the epic conclusion to this dark beauty and the beast retelling in book three, Make Her!
June 2, 2023
Thank you Cassie for the opportunity to read the ARC early... I just failed to read it until almost a MONTH after your release date because life is just rude.
I did buy the paperback, because I really did like this book. I love the growth in Lisane and the progression of Rhaim and Lisane's situationship. Finx continues to be my favorite spider-cat and it is so sweet to see how he and Lisane bond. I really want to know more of the magic system and how specifically Lisane is going to handle her magic.
If you enjoy a dark fantasy romance, then Bend Her and Break Her are fantastic.
4.25 out of 5 stars, and 4 out of 5 for the spice level.
I did buy the paperback, because I really did like this book. I love the growth in Lisane and the progression of Rhaim and Lisane's situationship. Finx continues to be my favorite spider-cat and it is so sweet to see how he and Lisane bond. I really want to know more of the magic system and how specifically Lisane is going to handle her magic.
If you enjoy a dark fantasy romance, then Bend Her and Break Her are fantastic.
4.25 out of 5 stars, and 4 out of 5 for the spice level.
February 17, 2024
There is some movement between the main characters, but there is no development in terms of the story and world-building whatsoever. I still don't really know who the Immortals are, how they appear, and why there is a war.
It is really frustrating because the universe of this book has so much potential. I just don't understand why the author is not developing it further.
It is also my first experience with dark romance fantasy books. So I am just wondering, are these books usually more focused solely on spice, or are there some books that have a better balance?
P.S.: The spice did increase. If in the first book I rated it 1/5, in this book it is more of a 2.5/5
It is really frustrating because the universe of this book has so much potential. I just don't understand why the author is not developing it further.
It is also my first experience with dark romance fantasy books. So I am just wondering, are these books usually more focused solely on spice, or are there some books that have a better balance?
P.S.: The spice did increase. If in the first book I rated it 1/5, in this book it is more of a 2.5/5
May 10, 2023
This was the perfect continuation to Bend Her! Break Her picks up right where Bend Her left off, and in true form Rhaim continues to be a controlling pain. But that’s what we love about him, right!? They’re relationship begins to develop and from this point you know things will never be the same. I’m more in love with both Lisane and Rhaim for the their stubbornness and intense love they have for each other. That ending though!! Book 3 can’t come soon enough!!
May 20, 2023
The tension between these two are so palpable that when they collide things are just 🔥🔥🔥
I love anything with a beauty and the beast twist but what makes this one so unique is the magic system that Cassie has created. I love the give and take of it and they way a price is paid for it.
And the humiliation/degradation makes things so much better 🫠🫠🫠 I mean, just poor an entire bag of ice on me at this point because things are hot .
So of course it’s no wonder it ends in a cliffhanger that stole my entire being!
The beast? Well I’m hoping we see lots more of him…if you know what I mean! 😘
I love anything with a beauty and the beast twist but what makes this one so unique is the magic system that Cassie has created. I love the give and take of it and they way a price is paid for it.
And the humiliation/degradation makes things so much better 🫠🫠🫠 I mean, just poor an entire bag of ice on me at this point because things are hot .
So of course it’s no wonder it ends in a cliffhanger that stole my entire being!
The beast? Well I’m hoping we see lots more of him…if you know what I mean! 😘
June 26, 2023
I received this as an arc. So incredibly grateful!!!
But …I have to start by saying I tried to read this as an audio and idk if I kept getting lost or what. The story was really good. But I didn’t get hooked til the last probably 1/4. I love Rhaim and his love for her that has blossomed. He’s starting to show so much more emotion and I love it! But now I’m hooked with the cliffhanger yet again and HAVE to know how it ends!!! I prob won’t ask for the audio next time. I have realized I get more lost when I read fantasy through audio and not a hardcopy. I think I may re read it once it comes in the mail!! Great job Cassie! Yet again… I’m left wanting more
But …I have to start by saying I tried to read this as an audio and idk if I kept getting lost or what. The story was really good. But I didn’t get hooked til the last probably 1/4. I love Rhaim and his love for her that has blossomed. He’s starting to show so much more emotion and I love it! But now I’m hooked with the cliffhanger yet again and HAVE to know how it ends!!! I prob won’t ask for the audio next time. I have realized I get more lost when I read fantasy through audio and not a hardcopy. I think I may re read it once it comes in the mail!! Great job Cassie! Yet again… I’m left wanting more
December 29, 2024
Buona evoluzione della storia. Peccato di nuovo per il finale, ho sempre l’impressione sia affrettato…
Perché, spoiler, Lisane troppo incline a tornare da suo padre nel momento in cui, tra l’altro, ha scoperto che è stato lui a “venderla” e prontissima ad abbandonare su due piedi Rhaim. Mah🤨 (è scusata solo se lo ha fatto apposta, che resta un espediente un po’ overusato ma almeno avrebbe senso)
Perché, spoiler, Lisane troppo incline a tornare da suo padre nel momento in cui, tra l’altro, ha scoperto che è stato lui a “venderla” e prontissima ad abbandonare su due piedi Rhaim. Mah🤨 (è scusata solo se lo ha fatto apposta, che resta un espediente un po’ overusato ma almeno avrebbe senso)
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