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Nightmares #2
Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller
The sequel to Amazon Top 100 Horror Suspense Bestseller, Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer.
Evil should never be necessary. Except when it is.
"And now in breaking news, Caitlin Lockyer has been found. In the early hours of this morning, a man discovered her body dumped on a south-west beach. A police spokesperson would not confirm whether the girl known as the Absent Angel is alive or dead..."
They called her an angel. No one thought to ask what kind.
Burning for retribution, now she'll stop at nothing.
Can it truly be evil when it feels so good?
A tiny taste of what's in store:
Don't get into cars with strangers.
So stupid to think I was strong enough to resist.
But I never dreamed it would happen to me.
I tried to back away, but the b**** behind me didn't let me. She hit my diaphragm with the heel of her hand, forcing my breath out in a huff. Unable to breathe, the street stood still in my mind as I stared around, desperately hoping for someone to see - someone who'd help me. Did eyes meet mine? Did I imagine understanding? If it was, it came too late. The burning flare that was my need to breathe exploded and she shoved me into the car. I fell on flesh encased in fabric as I gasped for breath, a flailing fish in the pervert's lap as I lay across the back seat. I dimly heard the doors and windows shut. The motor hummed as the car accelerated away - before I had enough air to scream.
Nightmares Trilogy
This is the second book in Demelza Carlton's Nightmares Trilogy, as dark, disturbing and downright scary as the first, Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer.
Evil should never be necessary. Except when it is.
"And now in breaking news, Caitlin Lockyer has been found. In the early hours of this morning, a man discovered her body dumped on a south-west beach. A police spokesperson would not confirm whether the girl known as the Absent Angel is alive or dead..."
They called her an angel. No one thought to ask what kind.
Burning for retribution, now she'll stop at nothing.
Can it truly be evil when it feels so good?
A tiny taste of what's in store:
Don't get into cars with strangers.
So stupid to think I was strong enough to resist.
But I never dreamed it would happen to me.
I tried to back away, but the b**** behind me didn't let me. She hit my diaphragm with the heel of her hand, forcing my breath out in a huff. Unable to breathe, the street stood still in my mind as I stared around, desperately hoping for someone to see - someone who'd help me. Did eyes meet mine? Did I imagine understanding? If it was, it came too late. The burning flare that was my need to breathe exploded and she shoved me into the car. I fell on flesh encased in fabric as I gasped for breath, a flailing fish in the pervert's lap as I lay across the back seat. I dimly heard the doors and windows shut. The motor hummed as the car accelerated away - before I had enough air to scream.
Nightmares Trilogy
This is the second book in Demelza Carlton's Nightmares Trilogy, as dark, disturbing and downright scary as the first, Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2013
54 people are currently reading
298 people want to read
About the author
Demelza Carlton
934 books3,879 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Demelza Carlton has always loved the ocean, but on her first snorkelling trip she found she was afraid of fish.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 20, 2013
It's taken me almost three weeks to write this review, despite reading it in one sitting and staying up until 4 AM because I *had* to find out what happened next.
Poor Ms Carlton must think I'm a raving loony after the 'progress report' comments I left on her Facebook page; most of which were along the lines of: "Oh my god, I can't believe that's how it happened!"
Like its predecessor, 'Necessary Evil' is an extraordinary piece of work. Told from Caitlin's point of view, it merges seamlessly with 'Nightmares' as she fills the gaps that were missing from Nathan's perspective of the events which transpired in book one, without being repetitive or covering old ground.
It's impossible to review 'Necessary Evil' without dropping giant spoilers left, right and centre - hence the length of time between reading and reviewing, so I'll just say that things are not necessarily quite what they seem, and the people you think you should be wary of pale in comparison to others.
Oh, and if you come across anything in a foreign language, run it through a translator!
More questions are raised and more deep rooted evil is uncovered. There are life changing and life endangering decisions to be made.
Oh, and there's another whopper of a cliffhanger at the end!
Poor Ms Carlton must think I'm a raving loony after the 'progress report' comments I left on her Facebook page; most of which were along the lines of: "Oh my god, I can't believe that's how it happened!"
Like its predecessor, 'Necessary Evil' is an extraordinary piece of work. Told from Caitlin's point of view, it merges seamlessly with 'Nightmares' as she fills the gaps that were missing from Nathan's perspective of the events which transpired in book one, without being repetitive or covering old ground.
It's impossible to review 'Necessary Evil' without dropping giant spoilers left, right and centre - hence the length of time between reading and reviewing, so I'll just say that things are not necessarily quite what they seem, and the people you think you should be wary of pale in comparison to others.
Oh, and if you come across anything in a foreign language, run it through a translator!
More questions are raised and more deep rooted evil is uncovered. There are life changing and life endangering decisions to be made.
Oh, and there's another whopper of a cliffhanger at the end!
February 2, 2014
Deep heart wrenching truths revealed by Caitlin leave you nothing but respect for her raw honesty and will. And as you immerse with the characters once more you realize the depth is beyond calculation, leaving their story stamped on your soul.
The second book of the nightmares trilogy keeps you intrigued, as well as the first book, and the suspense still churns with renewed quests. This story was a reveal from Caitlin's truths and again I couldn't put it down. As in real life, we all have versions of a story that another does not, and Caitlin had things to say that Nathan could never have imagined, keeping you rooted to the characters and feeling all their emotions, running the gambit from love to devastation. All of the feelings and passions kept tingling at a rapid pace, ensuring your heart was glued to the words that were both soft and glaring on page after page.
Caitlin's experience was nothing short of shocking. Yet her spirit made your admiration of her so strong that reading each page was like a privilege; one you were thankful she allowed. You realize as she does, that one person was pivotal for her. One person kept the light on in the dark recesses of her mind as well as the depths of doom she was living; one person who really doesn't understand just how much he did. He thinks he didn't do enough.
Demelza's gift for writing is again wonderfully evident in this book. She again directs a story with a straight purpose, letting the characters weave you through the scenes keeping you rooted to them and begging for more of the same. You feel connected to them in so many ways, even if you've never lived what they have. You feel. That's the key to her success. She writes so you feel all they are feeling and that's how it marches into your mind and makes a home, refusing to leave even after the story is done.
Throughout this book as well as the first, I wanted answers to questions from the very beginning. With the story being told by the lead now, some very significant answers are revealed, but not all of them. If is apparent we will need at least one more book to settle the score. And with how I perceive Caitlin and Nathan now, settle is just the right word.
As in real life, you realize these two are just not connecting in plain English sometimes. That ugly word assume is forefront and center, as they each think they know something they don't. Communication is the downfall of many a relationship, and even after all they have gone through, and relied on each other for, talking plainly is not their forte. No, hiding and skirting to what they think is helping the other is their preference, and really, when you understand why you love them even more.
This story and the characters are developed with a depth and expanse that keeps you wondering and reveling in their spunk and perseverance, capturing your attention with no diversion possible. The journey and characters are so emotionally charged it leaves a mark on your soul; one you don't want erased or eased because it now has significance to your character; your heart, mind and soul.
I know my take on this story may seem crazy as I gush in awe, but I loved it. I think it's great, wonderful, very written well, and you simply must read it. Bet you can't put it down either.
The second book of the nightmares trilogy keeps you intrigued, as well as the first book, and the suspense still churns with renewed quests. This story was a reveal from Caitlin's truths and again I couldn't put it down. As in real life, we all have versions of a story that another does not, and Caitlin had things to say that Nathan could never have imagined, keeping you rooted to the characters and feeling all their emotions, running the gambit from love to devastation. All of the feelings and passions kept tingling at a rapid pace, ensuring your heart was glued to the words that were both soft and glaring on page after page.
Caitlin's experience was nothing short of shocking. Yet her spirit made your admiration of her so strong that reading each page was like a privilege; one you were thankful she allowed. You realize as she does, that one person was pivotal for her. One person kept the light on in the dark recesses of her mind as well as the depths of doom she was living; one person who really doesn't understand just how much he did. He thinks he didn't do enough.
Demelza's gift for writing is again wonderfully evident in this book. She again directs a story with a straight purpose, letting the characters weave you through the scenes keeping you rooted to them and begging for more of the same. You feel connected to them in so many ways, even if you've never lived what they have. You feel. That's the key to her success. She writes so you feel all they are feeling and that's how it marches into your mind and makes a home, refusing to leave even after the story is done.
Throughout this book as well as the first, I wanted answers to questions from the very beginning. With the story being told by the lead now, some very significant answers are revealed, but not all of them. If is apparent we will need at least one more book to settle the score. And with how I perceive Caitlin and Nathan now, settle is just the right word.
As in real life, you realize these two are just not connecting in plain English sometimes. That ugly word assume is forefront and center, as they each think they know something they don't. Communication is the downfall of many a relationship, and even after all they have gone through, and relied on each other for, talking plainly is not their forte. No, hiding and skirting to what they think is helping the other is their preference, and really, when you understand why you love them even more.
This story and the characters are developed with a depth and expanse that keeps you wondering and reveling in their spunk and perseverance, capturing your attention with no diversion possible. The journey and characters are so emotionally charged it leaves a mark on your soul; one you don't want erased or eased because it now has significance to your character; your heart, mind and soul.
I know my take on this story may seem crazy as I gush in awe, but I loved it. I think it's great, wonderful, very written well, and you simply must read it. Bet you can't put it down either.
August 11, 2016
Adult Themes and Dark Trauma
In the first book of the trilogy, Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer, Caitlin was in trouble. Nathan saved her life. Now, in the Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller, the reader relives the story with Caitlin from her point of view.
In the aftermath of her terrible experience, Caitlin finds a purpose. She is funneling the terror and the trauma, and making her plans.
"Necessary evil, the evil and the good..."
Demelza Carlton is a talented and versatile writer. Her Nightmares series captures brutality and betrayal in her gritty psychological dramas. Another series, Ocean's Gift, is an exciting and fun set of paranormal romances about a secret mermaid society. Normally, writers seem to find their "comfort zone genre," and not venture forth from it. Ms. Carlton is a brave adventurer in her writing. Whether she's writing at the dark end of the spectrum, with hurt and loss, or at the bright end of the spectrum, with characters who fall in love, Ms. Carlton spins a spellbinding story.
In the first book of the trilogy, Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer, Caitlin was in trouble. Nathan saved her life. Now, in the Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller, the reader relives the story with Caitlin from her point of view.
In the aftermath of her terrible experience, Caitlin finds a purpose. She is funneling the terror and the trauma, and making her plans.
"Necessary evil, the evil and the good..."
Demelza Carlton is a talented and versatile writer. Her Nightmares series captures brutality and betrayal in her gritty psychological dramas. Another series, Ocean's Gift, is an exciting and fun set of paranormal romances about a secret mermaid society. Normally, writers seem to find their "comfort zone genre," and not venture forth from it. Ms. Carlton is a brave adventurer in her writing. Whether she's writing at the dark end of the spectrum, with hurt and loss, or at the bright end of the spectrum, with characters who fall in love, Ms. Carlton spins a spellbinding story.
September 5, 2013
I read the first book and you get a little confused, but this book pieces it together. Once again this author has made a breath taking book. I honestly cried at both endings, of the first and second book. I'm not giving any details of the book in case some haven't read it. You will be happy and heartbroken and hopeful and angry reading this book. But everything will come together when the third book comes out. I can't wait. I really hope it's good. If not I'll be truly upset. But I trust the author will make me cry again lol. Awesome book might even read then again so I don't miss anything.
November 23, 2015
I’m not completely sure why I chose this book to read. It is outside my normal genres, and it is the second book of a series. Nonetheless, I bought it and read it. Read on to find out my thoughts!
Synopsis (from the author): Evil should never be necessary. Except when it is.
"And now in breaking news, Caitlin Lockyer has been found. In the early hours of this morning, a man discovered her body dumped on a south-west beach. A police spokesperson would not confirm whether the girl known as the Absent Angel is alive or dead..."
Caitlin wakes in hospital, her damaged body telling a brutal story of torture, kidnap and rape that she will never forget. Her only lifeline is Nathan, the mysterious man who saved her life and promised to protect her. But Nathan is a broken man, hounded by his own demons and secrets he can't bear to tell.
Burning for retribution, Caitlin will stop at nothing to get her life back. Can she trust Nathan to help her - or will his past destroy them both?
What I liked: As I mentioned above, this is the second book of the series, and I haven’t read the first. This story comes from Caitlin’s point of view and is a chilling account of her abduction, torture, and rape. This is not a book for the faint of heart or younger audiences. The characters are memorable, and flawed, and Caitlin is filled with an understandable desire for revenge. She also demonstrates a remarkable resilience. Nathan was, perhaps, the most flawed of the characters, and his devotion to Caitlin was touching.
What I didn’t like: There was some repetition in Caitlin’s attachment to Nathan and her desire for him not to leave her. It also wasn’t particularly clear to me exactly why Caitlin had been abducted and tortured, so there are a few gaps in my understanding. To be fair, if I had read the first book prior to this one, those gaps could be smaller.
Overall impression: Demelza Carlton has created a series that deals with a brutal abduction with all that goes along with such an event. The overall experience was like watching the proverbial train wreck: as disturbing as it is, you can’t look away. Despite the gritty, troubling, and horrific events detailed in the novel, I wanted to keep reading to see how the story unfolded. I will go back, read the first book of the series, and then read the final book after that, so I have the full picture!
My rating: 4.5 Stars (rounded to 5 Stars)
Synopsis (from the author): Evil should never be necessary. Except when it is.
"And now in breaking news, Caitlin Lockyer has been found. In the early hours of this morning, a man discovered her body dumped on a south-west beach. A police spokesperson would not confirm whether the girl known as the Absent Angel is alive or dead..."
Caitlin wakes in hospital, her damaged body telling a brutal story of torture, kidnap and rape that she will never forget. Her only lifeline is Nathan, the mysterious man who saved her life and promised to protect her. But Nathan is a broken man, hounded by his own demons and secrets he can't bear to tell.
Burning for retribution, Caitlin will stop at nothing to get her life back. Can she trust Nathan to help her - or will his past destroy them both?
What I liked: As I mentioned above, this is the second book of the series, and I haven’t read the first. This story comes from Caitlin’s point of view and is a chilling account of her abduction, torture, and rape. This is not a book for the faint of heart or younger audiences. The characters are memorable, and flawed, and Caitlin is filled with an understandable desire for revenge. She also demonstrates a remarkable resilience. Nathan was, perhaps, the most flawed of the characters, and his devotion to Caitlin was touching.
What I didn’t like: There was some repetition in Caitlin’s attachment to Nathan and her desire for him not to leave her. It also wasn’t particularly clear to me exactly why Caitlin had been abducted and tortured, so there are a few gaps in my understanding. To be fair, if I had read the first book prior to this one, those gaps could be smaller.
Overall impression: Demelza Carlton has created a series that deals with a brutal abduction with all that goes along with such an event. The overall experience was like watching the proverbial train wreck: as disturbing as it is, you can’t look away. Despite the gritty, troubling, and horrific events detailed in the novel, I wanted to keep reading to see how the story unfolded. I will go back, read the first book of the series, and then read the final book after that, so I have the full picture!
My rating: 4.5 Stars (rounded to 5 Stars)
December 18, 2013
After reading the first book of the series, this one helps answer some of the lingering questions. The first one had many loopholes and the reader was left filling in many of the blanks.
That being said, I have to admit, I enjoyed the first one better. As much as I do like Caitlin, I don’t connect with her like I do with Nathan. This sequel is basically the same story as the first one, but with Caitlin’s perspective. She had horrifying things happen to her, but she is definitely a survivor. But again, I just had a hard time getting attached to her.
Perhaps, I enjoyed the first one more because it was from Nathan’s perspective. Or perhaps, there was more suspense in the first one (the readers weren’t sure how the book was going to end)- in the second one, we basically know what is going to happen (the general plot of the story). However, we do find out some surprises in this one that were not revealed in the first book.
I really like Nathan- I think he is a very deep character and the author has just touched the surface of his personality. I’m hoping we see the full depth of Nathan’s character in the third book.
I’m still left with a lot of questions. I’m hoping that the author gives her readers a nice closure in the third and I believe, the final installment of the series.
This is a unique story with a bit of everything- suspense, thriller, romance, horror, and action. I am looking forward to the third book, hoping Nathan’s story has a happy ending.
As dark as the series are, the story is definitely intriguing.
That being said, I have to admit, I enjoyed the first one better. As much as I do like Caitlin, I don’t connect with her like I do with Nathan. This sequel is basically the same story as the first one, but with Caitlin’s perspective. She had horrifying things happen to her, but she is definitely a survivor. But again, I just had a hard time getting attached to her.
Perhaps, I enjoyed the first one more because it was from Nathan’s perspective. Or perhaps, there was more suspense in the first one (the readers weren’t sure how the book was going to end)- in the second one, we basically know what is going to happen (the general plot of the story). However, we do find out some surprises in this one that were not revealed in the first book.
I really like Nathan- I think he is a very deep character and the author has just touched the surface of his personality. I’m hoping we see the full depth of Nathan’s character in the third book.
I’m still left with a lot of questions. I’m hoping that the author gives her readers a nice closure in the third and I believe, the final installment of the series.
This is a unique story with a bit of everything- suspense, thriller, romance, horror, and action. I am looking forward to the third book, hoping Nathan’s story has a happy ending.
As dark as the series are, the story is definitely intriguing.
March 30, 2014
The author definitely has a unique panache, as she weaves the story of a violently abused and injured young woman and her rescuer. Strong-willed and determined, Caitlin tells her story in a series of flashbacks as she begins the journey of recovery from what could very well have been her demise.
Her rescuer, Nathan, is no stranger to violence. His promise of protection and gentle treatment of Caitlin makes him a likeable character. As their relationship takes shape, a day comes when Caitlin can return the favor of protection, though in a different form.
I had a bit of trouble getting comfortable with the writing style in this suspense, mystery, romance novel, but after I did, it was clear that the author knew exactly the effect that she wanted from her prose. It is a book that keeps the reader turning the pages from start to finish.
Although this is the second book of a series, I believe it can be read as a standalone as well.
Her rescuer, Nathan, is no stranger to violence. His promise of protection and gentle treatment of Caitlin makes him a likeable character. As their relationship takes shape, a day comes when Caitlin can return the favor of protection, though in a different form.
I had a bit of trouble getting comfortable with the writing style in this suspense, mystery, romance novel, but after I did, it was clear that the author knew exactly the effect that she wanted from her prose. It is a book that keeps the reader turning the pages from start to finish.
Although this is the second book of a series, I believe it can be read as a standalone as well.
February 1, 2014
This sequel certainly explains a lot of things I didn't understand with the first one because it was told in Caitlin's POV. And it was good Carlton decided to have Caitlin',s point of view for better understandment and to fill in some blanks left by Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer.
October 31, 2018
This was a more in-depth version of book 1 but there are so many confusing things going on with no explanations in sight. Sorry but I’m not impressed.
March 28, 2019
Awesome book. Kept me captivated from Page One!
October 9, 2014
In Necessary Evil we see what Caitlin is really thinking, and my is it surprising. You understand scenes from both points of view. It requires you to have a good memory (or both books at hand) as to how a scene was interpreted from Nathan's perspective, and then Caitlin's. It's intriguing, fascinating and at times, shocking. Necessary Evil makes up for what was lost in Nightmares: solid foundation, directness and truth. None of which are in Nightmares. Because Nathan is broken.
The truth is that, yes, Caitlin does have nightmares brought on by trauma from her kidnapping, confinement and physical and sexual abuse. She was treated in the most vilest of ways and we can certainly empathize with her night terrors. But what we don't realize is that half of the bold passages in the beginning of each chapter of Nightmares are actually Nathan's. Now that was really clever and I loved it. Like my friend has said (who has also read them), it encourages you to go back and read Nightmares again so you can truly absorb everything that is happening.
I liked how in Necessary Evil we see a creative, musical side to Caitlin. Something of which is not mentioned at all in Nightmares because Nathan isn't aware she is in a band, or her bargain with his boss to get a recording contract. Something I thought was rather interesting and frankly, funny, within the grand scheme of this dark thing.
The writing is raw and unforgiving. It exposes everything, especially in Necessary Evil. We are witness to every beating, rape and horror Caitlin experiences and we understand Nathan all the more. I knew in the first book that he was there in that room with her. That he was 'Chris'. And I love how we were finally allowed to see the truth.
I did get a bit confused, mainly because I had all these wild conspiracy theories in my head clouding me from the truth, but it didn't affect my enjoyment of these two novels. I loved them. And despite my previous uncertainties with book one, after reading book two, I finally understand why it felt so erratic and misaligned. Demelza Carlton did a fabulous job of shoving us headfirst into the mind of a man broken by grief, trauma and guilt. Nathan is a complex, flawed but equally admirable character. The truth is that he is the victim, not Caitlin. She's so strong and defiant and never wanted to feel like a victim, or allowed people to treat her like one. There's no shame in being a victim, and she shows that, but she chooses not to fall into that fold. And I respect her strength. She stole the show.
Oh and FYI, the sexy scene is brilliant. It'll make anyone hot under the collar.
So here's a little tip for y'all: this ain't fluffy or light-hearted. It's graphic, gritty and downright dark. But it also gives the reader hope and we become attached and emotionally invested in the characters. Especially Caitlin and Nathan.
You must read this with an open mind, particularly when reading book one. Things aren't what they seem and it's like reading through a thick haze. But book two is where the haze clears and all is revealed. It's worth the wait. And just like Caitlin couldn't be without Nathan (and visa versa) Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer cannot be without Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller... and visa versa.
I can't wait to see what book three brings. I'll definitely be reviewing that bad boy and Demelza's other works. Stay tuned for more from this wonderful author, and great friend.
I give Nightmares 4 out of 5 moons and Necessary evil 5 out of 5. But together, they get 5 out of 5.
No doubt.
Reviewed for Bit'N Book Promoters
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The truth is that, yes, Caitlin does have nightmares brought on by trauma from her kidnapping, confinement and physical and sexual abuse. She was treated in the most vilest of ways and we can certainly empathize with her night terrors. But what we don't realize is that half of the bold passages in the beginning of each chapter of Nightmares are actually Nathan's. Now that was really clever and I loved it. Like my friend has said (who has also read them), it encourages you to go back and read Nightmares again so you can truly absorb everything that is happening.
I liked how in Necessary Evil we see a creative, musical side to Caitlin. Something of which is not mentioned at all in Nightmares because Nathan isn't aware she is in a band, or her bargain with his boss to get a recording contract. Something I thought was rather interesting and frankly, funny, within the grand scheme of this dark thing.
The writing is raw and unforgiving. It exposes everything, especially in Necessary Evil. We are witness to every beating, rape and horror Caitlin experiences and we understand Nathan all the more. I knew in the first book that he was there in that room with her. That he was 'Chris'. And I love how we were finally allowed to see the truth.
I did get a bit confused, mainly because I had all these wild conspiracy theories in my head clouding me from the truth, but it didn't affect my enjoyment of these two novels. I loved them. And despite my previous uncertainties with book one, after reading book two, I finally understand why it felt so erratic and misaligned. Demelza Carlton did a fabulous job of shoving us headfirst into the mind of a man broken by grief, trauma and guilt. Nathan is a complex, flawed but equally admirable character. The truth is that he is the victim, not Caitlin. She's so strong and defiant and never wanted to feel like a victim, or allowed people to treat her like one. There's no shame in being a victim, and she shows that, but she chooses not to fall into that fold. And I respect her strength. She stole the show.
Oh and FYI, the sexy scene is brilliant. It'll make anyone hot under the collar.
So here's a little tip for y'all: this ain't fluffy or light-hearted. It's graphic, gritty and downright dark. But it also gives the reader hope and we become attached and emotionally invested in the characters. Especially Caitlin and Nathan.
You must read this with an open mind, particularly when reading book one. Things aren't what they seem and it's like reading through a thick haze. But book two is where the haze clears and all is revealed. It's worth the wait. And just like Caitlin couldn't be without Nathan (and visa versa) Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer cannot be without Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller... and visa versa.
I can't wait to see what book three brings. I'll definitely be reviewing that bad boy and Demelza's other works. Stay tuned for more from this wonderful author, and great friend.
I give Nightmares 4 out of 5 moons and Necessary evil 5 out of 5. But together, they get 5 out of 5.
No doubt.
Reviewed for Bit'N Book Promoters
web | facebook | twitter | book tours
March 25, 2021
Meh
This book is a rip off, about 90% of it is copied directly from the first book.
Wish I could get a refund.
This book is a rip off, about 90% of it is copied directly from the first book.
Wish I could get a refund.
April 22, 2014
3 & 1/2 Stars from Kota for Kota's Book Kollection
This is book 2 in the Nightmare series. Book 1, the Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer is told from Nathan’s point of view. I have reviewed that here. It is suggested you read that review before this one, that way i avoid sounding repetitive, but don't worry - there are no spoilers in it!
Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller is told from Caitlin’s point of view. Considering that, I had hoped that many of the questions that book 1 left me with would be answered in this story. Some were, but many were not, at least not to the depth that I needed to understand.
Again as with book 1, this story is violent, confronting, and compelling – maybe even more so than book 1, because you gain such a clearer understanding for the trauma Caitlin experienced. This story also takes you a little further along than Book 1 – so you see some more closure.
I will continue to say that Ms Carlton is a talented writer, she enables the reader to visualise her story, which is somewhat a disturbing ability in this case. This story having been told a second time was still intense. Unfortunately, though I still struggled a little with the non-conventional style of story telling – it almost feels to me like there are frenetic thoughts that need to be put on a page, and that’s how it read. This made it a little disjointed, and while i love the respect that is given to the readers ability to piece together the gaps - it just seems a bit too much like hard work for me.
There are no real hearts and flowers moments in this book – it's quite frankly disturbing, in a really creative and engaging way.
I am rating The Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller 3 ½ hearts – this series is a good series, but one that i feel requires some more clarity and detail in the telling in order to take it the next level.
http://kotasbookkollection.blogspot.c...
This is book 2 in the Nightmare series. Book 1, the Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer is told from Nathan’s point of view. I have reviewed that here. It is suggested you read that review before this one, that way i avoid sounding repetitive, but don't worry - there are no spoilers in it!
Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller is told from Caitlin’s point of view. Considering that, I had hoped that many of the questions that book 1 left me with would be answered in this story. Some were, but many were not, at least not to the depth that I needed to understand.
Again as with book 1, this story is violent, confronting, and compelling – maybe even more so than book 1, because you gain such a clearer understanding for the trauma Caitlin experienced. This story also takes you a little further along than Book 1 – so you see some more closure.
I will continue to say that Ms Carlton is a talented writer, she enables the reader to visualise her story, which is somewhat a disturbing ability in this case. This story having been told a second time was still intense. Unfortunately, though I still struggled a little with the non-conventional style of story telling – it almost feels to me like there are frenetic thoughts that need to be put on a page, and that’s how it read. This made it a little disjointed, and while i love the respect that is given to the readers ability to piece together the gaps - it just seems a bit too much like hard work for me.
There are no real hearts and flowers moments in this book – it's quite frankly disturbing, in a really creative and engaging way.
I am rating The Necessary Evil of Nathan Miller 3 ½ hearts – this series is a good series, but one that i feel requires some more clarity and detail in the telling in order to take it the next level.
http://kotasbookkollection.blogspot.c...
July 5, 2014
An intense and sometimes brutal thriller, NECESSARY EVIL OF NATHAN MILLER, by Demelza Carlton, is a much darker story than I usually read, but it was so gripping that I simply couldn't put it down.The opening chapters were somewhat confusing because Caitlin, the narrator and main character, is herself confused, drifting in and out of consciousness following her rescue from terrorists who kidnapped and tortured her. Desperately traumatized, she cannot, at first, keep nightmares, memories, and reality separated. While this is disorienting, the narrative is done so well that the reader is pulled immediately into the middle of Caitlin's nightmare. (The middle in more ways than one, as this is the second book in a trilogy. It is a stand-alone novel, though, and except for an ending that strongly hints at the story continuing, it has a satisfying arc by itself.)
I rated NECESSARY EVIL 5 stars because, though crime/spy thriller is not a genre I particularly enjoy, this novel is so well written that I got deeply caught up in the story in spite of myself. But be forewarned: Ms Carlton does not shrink away from the brutal truths of Caitlin's trauma, and the details of abuse are very disturbing, as they are meant to be. This is a highly effective, dramatic thriller that deals not just with evil, but with the guilt, anger, and bitterly destructive emotions and widening web of horror that evil acts engender. It is also about the anguish of loving and forgiving a man who cannot forgive himself.
It's a testament to Ms Carlton's power as a writer that I'm actually anxious to read the third book in the series – shudders of horror, bloodthirsty redemption, and all!
I rated NECESSARY EVIL 5 stars because, though crime/spy thriller is not a genre I particularly enjoy, this novel is so well written that I got deeply caught up in the story in spite of myself. But be forewarned: Ms Carlton does not shrink away from the brutal truths of Caitlin's trauma, and the details of abuse are very disturbing, as they are meant to be. This is a highly effective, dramatic thriller that deals not just with evil, but with the guilt, anger, and bitterly destructive emotions and widening web of horror that evil acts engender. It is also about the anguish of loving and forgiving a man who cannot forgive himself.
It's a testament to Ms Carlton's power as a writer that I'm actually anxious to read the third book in the series – shudders of horror, bloodthirsty redemption, and all!
December 20, 2016
This is the second book in the series, this time told from the POV of the kidnap victim, Caitlyn.
You find out a little more about what has happened, although the why still isn't clear. Although it does appear that it's not all about Caitlyn - it's more about Alanna and her twin Nathan.
Of course I am now going to read the last book in the trilogy, where I will (hopefully) have all my remaining questions answered!
You find out a little more about what has happened, although the why still isn't clear. Although it does appear that it's not all about Caitlyn - it's more about Alanna and her twin Nathan.
Of course I am now going to read the last book in the trilogy, where I will (hopefully) have all my remaining questions answered!
August 6, 2016
As was this true of NIGHTMARES OF CAITLIN LOCKYEAR, Ms. Carlton maintains a steady action pace that keeps the reader flipping pages and burning the midnight oil. She deftly untwirls the tumultuous secrets of Caitlin and Nathan, each a survivor in their own way of a particularly hellish experience. They've performed necessary evil in order to survive. And hell has no intention of releasing them. Theirs is a complicated relationship, and we still don't know all the truth. Caitlin emerges as a much stronger personality than in NIGHTMARES, and I found myself liking her much better.
Ms. Carlton leaves us with important unanswered questions about Caitlin's and Nathan's old involvements that might have led to Caitlin's kidnapping, leaving plenty of material for Book 3.
Ms. Carlton leaves us with important unanswered questions about Caitlin's and Nathan's old involvements that might have led to Caitlin's kidnapping, leaving plenty of material for Book 3.
December 9, 2016
WOW! Questions answered - More questions and cliff hanger!
This is the second book in the trilogy and as it was supposed to do it makes you crave the third book! Coming from Caitlin's point of view of the horror she suffered and the revenge she craves, we see the characters from another angle. We also get to see more of Nathan's personality and his dark and brooding nature. Things aren't what they seem and I will not give you any spoilers because this is a great read and puts some of the puzzle left unfinished in the first book can be added to a whole picture...BUT the picture is NOT whole until all the answers are found and hopefully that will be in the 3rd book of this series. I couldn't put the book down! I will have to dive into book 3 to see how things resolve.
This is the second book in the trilogy and as it was supposed to do it makes you crave the third book! Coming from Caitlin's point of view of the horror she suffered and the revenge she craves, we see the characters from another angle. We also get to see more of Nathan's personality and his dark and brooding nature. Things aren't what they seem and I will not give you any spoilers because this is a great read and puts some of the puzzle left unfinished in the first book can be added to a whole picture...BUT the picture is NOT whole until all the answers are found and hopefully that will be in the 3rd book of this series. I couldn't put the book down! I will have to dive into book 3 to see how things resolve.
January 24, 2015
A strong 3.5 but not quite a 4. This book is told from Caitlin's point of view, it answers the mystery elements of the end of the first book and why Caitlin changed slightly. I did feel she acts slightly out of character at times in this book, but then again after going through what she has, who's to say whatever she does is not an acceptable action?
Much of this book repeats what you already know, the scenes already in your mind from Nathan's point of view are told by Caitlin, things you may have missed are bought forward. I didn't love this as much as the first book but am definitely looking forward to reading book 3 now.
Much of this book repeats what you already know, the scenes already in your mind from Nathan's point of view are told by Caitlin, things you may have missed are bought forward. I didn't love this as much as the first book but am definitely looking forward to reading book 3 now.
February 23, 2015
Dark subject matter, but I read this anyway since it was a sequel to another book that left many loopholes. I still don't fully grasp the entire plot about why Caitlin was taken, why were his sisters names put there, why did he have to be in on it, how well did Alanna know Caitlin, how could Alanna have told Caitlin about these people, etc.., I feel that either there was a terrible misunderstanding in the end or I missed something. Maybe it was intended to be left open with room for another sequel.
January 9, 2015
Just finished it an hour ago. While the first book ticked me off and earned 3 stars from me, this book earns a solid 5 because I am learning more and more about these tormented, deceptive, broken, strong characters. I think I may actually be becoming quite attached and emotionally invested in the characters. The third book can't come soon enough.
February 26, 2021
The horrors of what Caitlyn went through and the deceit all round. What a horrific time she went through and to pull through all that she went through, at times it was awful to read but a must to get to the end to see how it played out. Necessary for Nathan to accompany the evil torturers but the only saving grace for Caitlyn. What a story and 1 more to follow.
February 4, 2015
I don't know why anyone really enjoyed this book. It was slow, repeditive, and poorly written. The ending was bland at best. Way to tell us what we already knew. Predictable and Meh.
January 16, 2017
I liked how this part wrapped up the original book. Some stuff I had wondered about finally saw the light.
April 15, 2017
If the first part make you breathless, this part will make your heart raw. Necessary evil show us Caitlins point of view. Her pain, her hurt, her memories and thoughts. This book help you reveal what's actually happened when Caitlin was kidnapped, what happened at the beach and all other secrets.
I like this book, it's full of emotions, psychological and physical pain, hurt. For me it's more thriller than dark romance.
I like this book, it's full of emotions, psychological and physical pain, hurt. For me it's more thriller than dark romance.
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