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Criminals of the Ocean #2
Where Darkness Lies
Anger and pain brought them together, but their passion might just set them free.
Dimitri wants only one thing: revenge. His stepfather, Hendrix, has caused him nothing but pain and heartache. At last Dimitri can take something—someone—important to Hendrix and make him pay: Jess.
Jess is feisty and strong headed. Her past haunts her and connects her to the dangerously dark Dimitri in an unexpected way. Dimitri keeps his secrets locked deep inside, and Jess is drawn to this broken man like no one before.
With little to cling to besides their haunting pasts, both could have been doomed to lives spent raging against the darkness that holds them prisoner. Instead, it seems that as their pain draws them closer together, it is their desire that will set them free.
Dimitri wants only one thing: revenge. His stepfather, Hendrix, has caused him nothing but pain and heartache. At last Dimitri can take something—someone—important to Hendrix and make him pay: Jess.
Jess is feisty and strong headed. Her past haunts her and connects her to the dangerously dark Dimitri in an unexpected way. Dimitri keeps his secrets locked deep inside, and Jess is drawn to this broken man like no one before.
With little to cling to besides their haunting pasts, both could have been doomed to lives spent raging against the darkness that holds them prisoner. Instead, it seems that as their pain draws them closer together, it is their desire that will set them free.
256 pages, Paperback
First published December 16, 2014
146 people are currently reading
2632 people want to read
About the author
Bella Jewel
102 books7,456 followersHeya!! My name is Bella, I'm a new aussie author and I am as crazy as they come. I'm playful, friendly and always up for a chat so stop on by x
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
January 6, 2015
4 Stars
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one, because of course I read these books out of order…again. This is my first pirate book and I loved the premise. There are elements of forbidden love, suspense, and extreme hotness.
The story begins with us meeting Jess. She has just been kidnapped and is being held in a cell on a boat in the ocean, she knows this has something to do with Hendrix. Hendrix is a pirate who saved her and made her a nurse on his boat. When she sees Dimitri for the first time she is immediately taken back by his appearance, but she knows Dimitri is an evil man.
Dimitri has a plan and he is driven by his need for revenge on his father, Hendrix. When he kidnaps Jess he doesn’t know what she means to him, but can tell she is important to him and that’s enough motivation for him. Jess isn’t at all what Dimitri expected, she is a survivor and he sees himself in her.
As time goes on Dimitri and Jess build a relationship. This isn’t an easy task, Dimitri is so closed off, but Jess is a strong character and she doesn’t back down or cower to him.
I loved watching these two get to know each other. They are both damaged and their stories honestly broke my heart, but they find common ground in each other and are able to help each other.
Like I was saying this story has so many different elements and as much as I enjoyed the connection between Jess and Dimitri, I also really enjoyed the suspense. This story kept me on my toes, I was constantly wondering what would happen and I didn’t see some of the twist coming.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one, because of course I read these books out of order…again. This is my first pirate book and I loved the premise. There are elements of forbidden love, suspense, and extreme hotness.
The story begins with us meeting Jess. She has just been kidnapped and is being held in a cell on a boat in the ocean, she knows this has something to do with Hendrix. Hendrix is a pirate who saved her and made her a nurse on his boat. When she sees Dimitri for the first time she is immediately taken back by his appearance, but she knows Dimitri is an evil man.
Dimitri has a plan and he is driven by his need for revenge on his father, Hendrix. When he kidnaps Jess he doesn’t know what she means to him, but can tell she is important to him and that’s enough motivation for him. Jess isn’t at all what Dimitri expected, she is a survivor and he sees himself in her.
As time goes on Dimitri and Jess build a relationship. This isn’t an easy task, Dimitri is so closed off, but Jess is a strong character and she doesn’t back down or cower to him.
I loved watching these two get to know each other. They are both damaged and their stories honestly broke my heart, but they find common ground in each other and are able to help each other.
Like I was saying this story has so many different elements and as much as I enjoyed the connection between Jess and Dimitri, I also really enjoyed the suspense. This story kept me on my toes, I was constantly wondering what would happen and I didn’t see some of the twist coming.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2014
4,5 STARS
Wow!!!I really enjoyed this series so far!!The story and generally the pirates are so refreshing!!!This was even better than the first book!! Dimitri is so different from Hendrix!I didn't like him in the beginning, but once he started showing Jess his kind side I started to fall in love with him....
The book begins where the previous leave us with a cliffhanger...But lucky for me I had an ARC so I start it immediately...Dimitri is Hendrix's stepson...He steals Jess and now she is capture of him! Dmitri blames Hendrix for his mothers death and lives only for revenge!He wants to use Jess to get back at Hendrix.But he doesn't expect Jess to find a way and touch his heart...
I loved the relationship development between Jess and Dimitri!!There are intense and romantic moments between them!! Dimitri sees something in Jess..She is the same as him, equally damaged....and this bringing them together... They learn to rely on each other and to heel the parts of each other!!!I really loved them!!!Jess is amazing!!!She is strong,funny and sweet!!And Dimitri...mmmm he is so hot!!But what I loved more is that despite the fact that he was rough...Around Jess , he changed and he is gentle!!!
This series keep going better and better!!I'm sure you will love it!!And if you didn't like the first book...please give it a try...I'm sure Dimitri and Jess will captivate you!!!I can't wait until Drake's book comes out!!!!
ARC kindly provided by Montlake Romance, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review .
Wow!!!I really enjoyed this series so far!!The story and generally the pirates are so refreshing!!!This was even better than the first book!! Dimitri is so different from Hendrix!I didn't like him in the beginning, but once he started showing Jess his kind side I started to fall in love with him....
The book begins where the previous leave us with a cliffhanger...But lucky for me I had an ARC so I start it immediately...Dimitri is Hendrix's stepson...He steals Jess and now she is capture of him! Dmitri blames Hendrix for his mothers death and lives only for revenge!He wants to use Jess to get back at Hendrix.But he doesn't expect Jess to find a way and touch his heart...
I loved the relationship development between Jess and Dimitri!!There are intense and romantic moments between them!! Dimitri sees something in Jess..She is the same as him, equally damaged....and this bringing them together... They learn to rely on each other and to heel the parts of each other!!!I really loved them!!!Jess is amazing!!!She is strong,funny and sweet!!And Dimitri...mmmm he is so hot!!But what I loved more is that despite the fact that he was rough...Around Jess , he changed and he is gentle!!!
This series keep going better and better!!I'm sure you will love it!!And if you didn't like the first book...please give it a try...I'm sure Dimitri and Jess will captivate you!!!I can't wait until Drake's book comes out!!!!
ARC kindly provided by Montlake Romance, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review .
December 2, 2014
4.5 stars
Dimitri
Jess
Where Darkness Lies is the second book in Criminals of the Ocean series, picking up where the first one left off BUT with a different lead couple; Dimitri & Jess.
Dimitri has one thing on his mind, revenge . He wants nothing more than to make his dear old step dad pay for all the wrong that happened when he left and what better way then to take someone he cares about; Jess. Dimitri and Jess are two very broken people who have two completely different methods of dealing with the card life has dealt them.
In Jess he finds his rage turn to passion craving a girl he has no business wanting. She is a means to Hendrix's ending....
Jess' strength shines so bright, it brings Dimitri to his knees. In those moments of vulnerability, it's when they truly see each other and maybe hope for peace. But darkness is never too far away, finding it's way back into your life and taking over.
Where Darkness Lies, in my opinion a greater read than the first, I'm not sure if I went with lower expectations or what but Dimitri & Jess's story had a bit more realness in it. You can feel the pain, the hurt, the betrayal and the never ending quest to make all those feelings go away. They were on land a bit more, Dimi not a pirate, he's a fighter and a damn good one too. Fighting is his temporary escape. Jess we met her in the first book as one person, but she actually had more to her than we ever knew. She is a survivor and protective of those she cares most about.
While it isn't really necessary to read the first to read this, I do recommend that you do, it will help bring you up to speed and let you get to know the characters a little better. I really enjoyed this read, and true to form it leaves us with just enough to make us want more... Drake's story is next and I can't wait, plus I need to see someone pay!
ARC kindly provided by Montlake Romance, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review .
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
"Fight until you can't breathe."
Dimitri
I am where darkness lies.
...the angel of darkness.
Jess
She's not afraid; she's been strong, and tough, and mouthy. Then I tied her. And she broke. Like me. Broken.
Where Darkness Lies is the second book in Criminals of the Ocean series, picking up where the first one left off BUT with a different lead couple; Dimitri & Jess.
Dimitri has one thing on his mind, revenge . He wants nothing more than to make his dear old step dad pay for all the wrong that happened when he left and what better way then to take someone he cares about; Jess. Dimitri and Jess are two very broken people who have two completely different methods of dealing with the card life has dealt them.
"Maybe I wanted to make it hurt." He lifts his eyes, and stares hard at me.
"Now why would you want to do that?"
"The pain is better than the memories."
In Jess he finds his rage turn to passion craving a girl he has no business wanting. She is a means to Hendrix's ending....
In his world, Hendrix is the best. he's deadly, he's determined, and he's powerful.
In Dimitri's world, he's the best. If those world collide, who will come out on top?
Jess' strength shines so bright, it brings Dimitri to his knees. In those moments of vulnerability, it's when they truly see each other and maybe hope for peace. But darkness is never too far away, finding it's way back into your life and taking over.
Where Darkness Lies, in my opinion a greater read than the first, I'm not sure if I went with lower expectations or what but Dimitri & Jess's story had a bit more realness in it. You can feel the pain, the hurt, the betrayal and the never ending quest to make all those feelings go away. They were on land a bit more, Dimi not a pirate, he's a fighter and a damn good one too. Fighting is his temporary escape. Jess we met her in the first book as one person, but she actually had more to her than we ever knew. She is a survivor and protective of those she cares most about.
While it isn't really necessary to read the first to read this, I do recommend that you do, it will help bring you up to speed and let you get to know the characters a little better. I really enjoyed this read, and true to form it leaves us with just enough to make us want more... Drake's story is next and I can't wait, plus I need to see someone pay!
ARC kindly provided by Montlake Romance, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review .
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
August 31, 2017
4.5 Yay!
How can there be no more books in this series! HOW!
I can't believe this is the last time I'll ever see these guys! I was so looking forward to other stories!
Anyway, let's get back to the review part (not that I can actually be too happy right now, after finding out it's the last book in this series).
I admit, I liked the previous book a wee bit more, but that doesn't mean this one wasn't great. I rarely give books a 4.5-star rating but Dimitri's story was well worth every little star I gave.
Again, a great story and an amazing chemistry and it's pretty rare to find both of these in a romance book. I not only fell in love with Dimitri, but with Dimitri and Jess as a couple. She was a badass (and I love a badass chick!).
It's a series that I'll really really miss.
How can there be no more books in this series! HOW!
I can't believe this is the last time I'll ever see these guys! I was so looking forward to other stories!
Anyway, let's get back to the review part (not that I can actually be too happy right now, after finding out it's the last book in this series).
I admit, I liked the previous book a wee bit more, but that doesn't mean this one wasn't great. I rarely give books a 4.5-star rating but Dimitri's story was well worth every little star I gave.
Again, a great story and an amazing chemistry and it's pretty rare to find both of these in a romance book. I not only fell in love with Dimitri, but with Dimitri and Jess as a couple. She was a badass (and I love a badass chick!).
It's a series that I'll really really miss.
December 22, 2014
3 STARS
After waiting for nearly a year...A long and impatient year! The 2nd book in this great series finally came out. This wasn't really the authors fault since the series was picked up by a publisher soon after the first book was released. Anyways, I was eagerly anticipating this book about Dimitri, Hendrix's estranged and pissed to hell step-son. The climax at the end of the first book was brutal, and possibly made me build this book up in my head waiting for what could possibly happen.
So was it worth the wait? In general...not really, sigh. I liked this book, I really did, but compared to my expectations, it probably didn't have a good chance of exceeding them. I think I expected more EVERYTHING. Dimitri is hell-bent on revenge and making Hendrix pay for destroying his life. We learned what happened in the first book but here we actually learned what happened to poor Dimitri. I understand his feelings and quest for personal justice, but I guess I wanted to see more organized plans for vengeance. He lived and breathed getting Hendrix back but it all seemed so soft, so not dire. Also, like in the first book, I couldn't quite place times and dates, ages were also not very clear. Dimitri was also a fighter, NOT a pirate! I wanted a pirate not an MMA champion.
Kidnapping Jess was part of Dimitri's plan to piss Hendrix off but he never expected her to change him, affect him or connect with him. Jess had her own past that she ran from and through shared experiences, her and Dimitri find solace with one another, hope to move forward instead of looking back. Those parts where they connected, were lovely.
I liked Jess for the most part, but she sometimes said or did contradictory things to her situation. She'd be sarcastic and childish at times you expected fear and doubt. Some of her reactions didn't match her inner feelings at all and that left me a little confused. For the most part however, Jess was kind and considerate, seeing things in Dimitri he couldn't see in himself.
We did get to catch up with IndI and Hendrix which was nice and there was a little plot twist at about 75% or so that helped move things along. The epilogue was cute and rounded out the story nicely. I may have liked the first book better--it was just more of everything-- but I still liked this one and acknowledge that maybe it was my expectations that were too high.
After waiting for nearly a year...A long and impatient year! The 2nd book in this great series finally came out. This wasn't really the authors fault since the series was picked up by a publisher soon after the first book was released. Anyways, I was eagerly anticipating this book about Dimitri, Hendrix's estranged and pissed to hell step-son. The climax at the end of the first book was brutal, and possibly made me build this book up in my head waiting for what could possibly happen.
So was it worth the wait? In general...not really, sigh. I liked this book, I really did, but compared to my expectations, it probably didn't have a good chance of exceeding them. I think I expected more EVERYTHING. Dimitri is hell-bent on revenge and making Hendrix pay for destroying his life. We learned what happened in the first book but here we actually learned what happened to poor Dimitri. I understand his feelings and quest for personal justice, but I guess I wanted to see more organized plans for vengeance. He lived and breathed getting Hendrix back but it all seemed so soft, so not dire. Also, like in the first book, I couldn't quite place times and dates, ages were also not very clear. Dimitri was also a fighter, NOT a pirate! I wanted a pirate not an MMA champion.
Kidnapping Jess was part of Dimitri's plan to piss Hendrix off but he never expected her to change him, affect him or connect with him. Jess had her own past that she ran from and through shared experiences, her and Dimitri find solace with one another, hope to move forward instead of looking back. Those parts where they connected, were lovely.
I liked Jess for the most part, but she sometimes said or did contradictory things to her situation. She'd be sarcastic and childish at times you expected fear and doubt. Some of her reactions didn't match her inner feelings at all and that left me a little confused. For the most part however, Jess was kind and considerate, seeing things in Dimitri he couldn't see in himself.
We did get to catch up with IndI and Hendrix which was nice and there was a little plot twist at about 75% or so that helped move things along. The epilogue was cute and rounded out the story nicely. I may have liked the first book better--it was just more of everything-- but I still liked this one and acknowledge that maybe it was my expectations that were too high.
November 25, 2014
4.5 Stars!
Review to come.
**ARC provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review**
May 16, 2015
2.5 Disappointed Stars!
I loved Enslaved By The Ocean. When that book ended with Dimitri kidnapping Jess I couldn't wait to read this book! I was so excited to see my pre-ordered book on my kindle.
Both Jess and Dimitri are broken. They both have had a very rough childhood that's left very ugly scars that are not visible.
I didn't connect with either of them. Their relationship felt kind of instant. I just didn't get it:( The story had so much potential. Around half way through I almost decided to add another book to my DNF pile.
I skimmed to the end after 80%. I wanted to see if she was setting us up for Drakes story. We got nothing.
Will I be continuing on with this series?? I'm not sure. I thought this was going to be a series about different pirates. Dimitri was a fighter not a pirate:(
I am however still a huge fan of Bella Jewel. This will not stop me from checking out anything she releases:)
I loved Enslaved By The Ocean. When that book ended with Dimitri kidnapping Jess I couldn't wait to read this book! I was so excited to see my pre-ordered book on my kindle.
Both Jess and Dimitri are broken. They both have had a very rough childhood that's left very ugly scars that are not visible.
I didn't connect with either of them. Their relationship felt kind of instant. I just didn't get it:( The story had so much potential. Around half way through I almost decided to add another book to my DNF pile.
I skimmed to the end after 80%. I wanted to see if she was setting us up for Drakes story. We got nothing.
Will I be continuing on with this series?? I'm not sure. I thought this was going to be a series about different pirates. Dimitri was a fighter not a pirate:(
I am however still a huge fan of Bella Jewel. This will not stop me from checking out anything she releases:)
May 6, 2015
Title: Where Darkness Lies
Series: Criminals of the Ocean, #2
Author: Bella Jewel
Genre: New Adult
Source: eARC
Release Date: December 16th, 2014
Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars
Advance Readers Copy (ARC) provided for my blog for an honest review
I wished I loved the book, but this probably was the worst book by Bella. I enjoyed yes but I didn't love it to the extent that I wanted to too. I mean I read this pretty quickly when I didn't have to work my "so-called normal" job.
I just found that it was unrealistic in some part, and didn't connect to the heroine. I just really couldn't stand her. Longer review to come
Series: Criminals of the Ocean, #2
Author: Bella Jewel
Genre: New Adult
Source: eARC
Release Date: December 16th, 2014
Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars
Advance Readers Copy (ARC) provided for my blog for an honest review
I wished I loved the book, but this probably was the worst book by Bella. I enjoyed yes but I didn't love it to the extent that I wanted to too. I mean I read this pretty quickly when I didn't have to work my "so-called normal" job.
I just found that it was unrealistic in some part, and didn't connect to the heroine. I just really couldn't stand her. Longer review to come
November 9, 2014
*don't read this review if you didn't read Enslaved by the Ocean (recommended to read it first)*
**ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review!**
*Quotes may differ upon publication*
>>Link to my review of Enslaved by the Ocean<<
4 FUCKED-UP-NESS STARS!
I got my sequel and now I need the SEQUEL AGAIN! Life is such a struggle...
JESSICA & DIMITRI
I've met a lot of women in my time, but never one so determined as she. She's not willing to break, not willing to show a piece of herself that's anything other than hard. She's just like me, in a sense. That never makes for a good combination.
Where Darkness Lies starts a few days after Enslaved by the Ocean. Jess was taken by Dimitri as his plan to get revenge on his stepfather, Hendrix. Left as a teen, his hatred and bitterness fueled his will to live through all these years. To Dimitri, killing Hendrix seems to be the only way to free himself from his past, but that's about to change. Out of all the crew members, Dimitri takes Jess and Jess is about to unthaw his icy heart.
Jess has gone through hell and back; never again will she fall into Hell again otherwise, she might not come back. When Dimitri has taken her, it doesn't affect her like it would to normal people--spending years on a pirate ship can do wonders to a person. She's not afraid and as long as the demons from her past don't appear, she can overcome anything.
I've lived through worse... I've run with the ultimate criminals and I've seen things most wouldn't see in their lifetime. What most people shouldn't see in their lifetime. I'm prepared for whatever's thrown at me. I'll keep my cool. I won't show fear, and I won't let him see any kind of weakness in me. I won't break, It's just not who I am.The woman who's supposed to be a prisoner seems less of a prisoner the longer Dimitri holds Jess captive. Instead, she talks back and doesn't seem to learn her lesson about escaping. And the bad thing is, he seems to find himself enjoying her company. She's something he craves and she's an opportunity to a better life.
"Women like you, they're different. You're not the same as a thousand others, you're one of your own So while you might not be the stereotype, you can be so much more beautiful."
Jess will do everything she possibly can to protect Hendrix. He is her hero, her savior and she will not let a man blinded by his past to destroy her family. Getting to know Dimitri is a mere bonus in trying to protect Hendrix and when she sees Dimitri, she sees a part of herself. They're so alike yet they ended up in different paths both rescued by the same man. A slight touch can initiate a flow of painful memories and even they can't save themselves.
"I can see beyond what everyone else sees. I can see the side to you that you've pushed down. I can see a part of me in you. I feel a connection when I'm with you, and understanding ... but more than anything, I feel you, Dimitri. With everything I am."
Despite Jess trying her hardest, to the point of revealing the scars of her past, will Dimitri end up putting Hendrix before the woman he might be falling in love with?
She's killing me ... in the best way possible.
HEA?
--
Before I start... AHHHHHHHHHHHH x100000 H'S. This was so FREAKING CUTE!!!!!!
"What wrong with cute?"C'mon. Tell me that you didn't just squeal when you read that. Their relationship is just too precious.
"Cute is what you call the guy you don't think is good-looking, but you don't want to insult."
"Okay, how about this? You're sex, hot, smokin', panty-melter the wetter of all pussies everywhere."
The first book was dark, emotional, and stole my heart; this book was 50 shades of sweet and stole my heart then put it into a safe. I really love the author's style of writing; she made a good choice of having a dual POV. You knew what Jess and Dimitri were feeling and it made you want to shake some sense into each other, but then the ending is just too amazing... I'm extremely glad this book didn't disappoint because I don't think my heart would have been able to take it after reading the first book. Now, I will go back to my post-book depression because DRAKE'S STORY IS NEXT . . . .
May 12, 2015
This book is all kinds of crazy due to the couple AND situation that their being together is so damn messed up but yet- it works perfectly.
I was in the biggest book slump until I picked up this story. I can't even begin to explain why this book pulled me out of it and why I was ensnared by it. Seriously, this couple is whacked but - when they forget to be whacked out with their demons, trust issues, revenge, running or pushing feelings away... They find some sweet and tender moments together.
I do have to say I did find some eye rolling worthy moments. As well as the part when I wondered if everyone drank the crazy Kool-Aid? Because seriously they couldn't figure out the obvious and thought the worst? But didn't figure out the right direction of worst for many precious days? Come on now!
What I liked :
1. Fast paced -
2. Hard to put down
3. Never made me want to cheat and peek at the end.
4. Damon- good guy
5. Pulled me out of a book funk
6. Dimitri and Jess were able to ultimately save each other.
7. Seeing Hendrix and Indgo make a few appearances from book 1.
8. Tender or sweet moments - real raw moments of truth - between Dimitri and Jess.
I was in the biggest book slump until I picked up this story. I can't even begin to explain why this book pulled me out of it and why I was ensnared by it. Seriously, this couple is whacked but - when they forget to be whacked out with their demons, trust issues, revenge, running or pushing feelings away... They find some sweet and tender moments together.
I do have to say I did find some eye rolling worthy moments. As well as the part when I wondered if everyone drank the crazy Kool-Aid? Because seriously they couldn't figure out the obvious and thought the worst? But didn't figure out the right direction of worst for many precious days? Come on now!
What I liked :
1. Fast paced -
2. Hard to put down
3. Never made me want to cheat and peek at the end.
4. Damon- good guy
5. Pulled me out of a book funk
6. Dimitri and Jess were able to ultimately save each other.
7. Seeing Hendrix and Indgo make a few appearances from book 1.
8. Tender or sweet moments - real raw moments of truth - between Dimitri and Jess.
February 23, 2015
2.5 underwhelmed stars
I’m definitely going to be in the minority here, and it pains me to say it but I just didn’t feel this story.
I loved the first book in this series - Enslaved by the Ocean. Bella Jewel’s pirate romance was definitely something original, and the intensity of her characters and their story really drew me in. The book finished on a huge cliffhanger when ship nurse, Jessica was kidnapped off the ship by Dimitri, and this book picks up right from that point.
Dimitri is a tormented man who has lived his adult life with one goal – to take revenge on pirate captain Hendrix (hero of book 1), the man who he holds responsible for all of the pain in his life. And he believes that by taking Jess, he will draw Hendrix out so that he can finally claim the retribution which he believes he is owed.
Jess is a very feisty and spirited girl. She has been through hell in her life, and was rescued by Hendrix (who she now considers her family) as a teenager. Her life on board his ship has been safe but tough, and she has grown strong and resilient. However she does seem surprisingly ok with her kidnapping. Of course she’s anxious, but she is somewhat accepting of her fate, even throwing sass at her kidnapper, and lusting after him every time he comes near her. Yes, the man is hot, but he doesn’t treat her well (he is her kidnapper after all, and he is an angry man intent on vengeance), but Jess recognises something in him – he is broken and suffering, just as she has suffered, and it makes her reach out to him, despite all that he has done.
Honestly, I struggled with this relationship. It seemed really fast, and I couldn’t understand how Jess was so drawn to Dimitri! She wanted him, but she also planned to kill him, but then she is overcome with her emotions, feeling all protective over him one moment and then flirty with him the next – joking, teasing, even attempting to seduce him and trying to draw him out of his broody man moods.
And speaking of which – I get that Dimitri has been hurt by Hendrix, and he hasn’t had an easy life, but he comes off like a whiny little bitch. Sure, he’s endured something awful, Hendrix treated him badly and his life didn’t work out the way he wanted it. But seriously man, grow a pair and move on! I had to agree with Jess when she let him have it.
Yeah! You go, girl!
However… as the story progressed, and once I made an effort to suspend belief just a little bit and accept that the romance was happening, I did find myself getting into the story more. Once Jess and Dimitri started opening up to each other, I liked the way they recognised something in each other and how that changed the dynamic between them.
Their gentleness with each other was really sweet as they both tried so hard to move on and experience something special, and by the time it was all on between them, I was fully on board. Their relationship is nice mix of hot and steamy, and deep and meaningful.
As the story progressed I liked the way that Jess’ struggle between the man she is falling for and those she considers her family was written, and I like how that particular part of the story played out. I also enjoyed catching up with Hendrix and Indi from the first book. And then there is a bit of a twist in the story which came out of nowhere , but it brought a bit of excitement and provided the perfect set up for all of the conflicts to be satisfyingly resolved.
I must say that I also missed the pirate element in this one. The last book was most definitely a ‘pirate book’, taking place on a pirate ship, with a pirate hero and his pirate crew who are doing pirate-y things. In this book, the characters go on a few boat trips :\ While that’s not necessarily a bad thing, I was looking forward to the escapism of life on the sea, and it wasn’t there.
So... *sigh*. I had really mixed feelings about this book. I’m honestly surprised at my reaction, because I do like Bella Jewel’s writing, and I’m disappointed that I didn’t love this one as much as I did the first, but unfortunately I just didn’t feel it.
2.5 stars – it was just ok.
An Advanced Reader Copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’m definitely going to be in the minority here, and it pains me to say it but I just didn’t feel this story.
I loved the first book in this series - Enslaved by the Ocean. Bella Jewel’s pirate romance was definitely something original, and the intensity of her characters and their story really drew me in. The book finished on a huge cliffhanger when ship nurse, Jessica was kidnapped off the ship by Dimitri, and this book picks up right from that point.
Dimitri is a tormented man who has lived his adult life with one goal – to take revenge on pirate captain Hendrix (hero of book 1), the man who he holds responsible for all of the pain in his life. And he believes that by taking Jess, he will draw Hendrix out so that he can finally claim the retribution which he believes he is owed.
Revenge is a dish best served cold.
That’s the way I am serving it – cold, empty, broken, and completely fucked up.
Jess is a very feisty and spirited girl. She has been through hell in her life, and was rescued by Hendrix (who she now considers her family) as a teenager. Her life on board his ship has been safe but tough, and she has grown strong and resilient. However she does seem surprisingly ok with her kidnapping. Of course she’s anxious, but she is somewhat accepting of her fate, even throwing sass at her kidnapper, and lusting after him every time he comes near her. Yes, the man is hot, but he doesn’t treat her well (he is her kidnapper after all, and he is an angry man intent on vengeance), but Jess recognises something in him – he is broken and suffering, just as she has suffered, and it makes her reach out to him, despite all that he has done.
You can’t sleep next to someone each night, and begin to feel what they’re about, then just kill them with no emotion. Dimitri has pulled an emotion from me, and that emotion is confusing and all consuming. And I have to kill him. I have to. There is no choice. If I don’t, I’m risking my family.
I don’t know who I’m going to do it, though.
But I have to. Somehow.
Honestly, I struggled with this relationship. It seemed really fast, and I couldn’t understand how Jess was so drawn to Dimitri! She wanted him, but she also planned to kill him, but then she is overcome with her emotions, feeling all protective over him one moment and then flirty with him the next – joking, teasing, even attempting to seduce him and trying to draw him out of his broody man moods.
And speaking of which – I get that Dimitri has been hurt by Hendrix, and he hasn’t had an easy life, but he comes off like a whiny little bitch. Sure, he’s endured something awful, Hendrix treated him badly and his life didn’t work out the way he wanted it. But seriously man, grow a pair and move on! I had to agree with Jess when she let him have it.
Do you think you’re the only person in the world who has been let down by someone? Shit, Dimitri, you’re not. Pull your head out of your ass and change your life, instead of chasing a sick dream of revenge that will only get you killed.
Yeah! You go, girl!
However… as the story progressed, and once I made an effort to suspend belief just a little bit and accept that the romance was happening, I did find myself getting into the story more. Once Jess and Dimitri started opening up to each other, I liked the way they recognised something in each other and how that changed the dynamic between them.
“Fuck, Jess, what do you want from me? I stole you. At what point did I go from being the enemy to fucking Prince Charming?”
Their gentleness with each other was really sweet as they both tried so hard to move on and experience something special, and by the time it was all on between them, I was fully on board. Their relationship is nice mix of hot and steamy, and deep and meaningful.
Never, in my wildest dreams, did I ever think one woman would change everything I’ve worked so hard for.
As the story progressed I liked the way that Jess’ struggle between the man she is falling for and those she considers her family was written, and I like how that particular part of the story played out. I also enjoyed catching up with Hendrix and Indi from the first book. And then there is a bit of a twist in the story which came out of nowhere , but it brought a bit of excitement and provided the perfect set up for all of the conflicts to be satisfyingly resolved.
I must say that I also missed the pirate element in this one. The last book was most definitely a ‘pirate book’, taking place on a pirate ship, with a pirate hero and his pirate crew who are doing pirate-y things. In this book, the characters go on a few boat trips :\ While that’s not necessarily a bad thing, I was looking forward to the escapism of life on the sea, and it wasn’t there.
So... *sigh*. I had really mixed feelings about this book. I’m honestly surprised at my reaction, because I do like Bella Jewel’s writing, and I’m disappointed that I didn’t love this one as much as I did the first, but unfortunately I just didn’t feel it.
2.5 stars – it was just ok.
An Advanced Reader Copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2021
"Where Darkness Lies" picks up from the last chapter of "Enslaved by the Ocean" and it's Dimitri and Jess' story. I enjoyed reading their story, even if it was way darker than Hendrix and Indigo's story. It's a pity that it ends here...
November 7, 2014
I think I loved this one more than the first one in the series Dimitri obviously has a lot to learn about women:
"It's never okay to ask a woman about her period."
He's quiet for a moment, I can only hear his footsteps as he follows closely behind me. "You women are completely confusing."
I think the boy gets off taunting his girl:
I notice the peak in his pants and my eyes widen. Whoa, I knew he was not lacking down below but...Wow. His pants are really straining. "Did you want a picture?"
I jerk my eyes up and smile sheepishly "Oh...I..."
"Baby," he murmurs with a grin. "If you want to stare at my c***, then you can stare at my c***."
Dimitri gives the sweetest compliments at times, "you suck c*** like a pro," he murmurs, staring at my swollen lips." He really is a romantic at heart, "the moment Dimitri reaches me, his arms go around me and his lips slide up my neck. "That look you just gave me - you're lucky I didn't take you out back and eff you so hard you screamed my name so loudly the entire club heard you." I hope this isn't the end of the series I hope Luke gets a story.
"It's never okay to ask a woman about her period."
He's quiet for a moment, I can only hear his footsteps as he follows closely behind me. "You women are completely confusing."
I think the boy gets off taunting his girl:
I notice the peak in his pants and my eyes widen. Whoa, I knew he was not lacking down below but...Wow. His pants are really straining. "Did you want a picture?"
I jerk my eyes up and smile sheepishly "Oh...I..."
"Baby," he murmurs with a grin. "If you want to stare at my c***, then you can stare at my c***."
Dimitri gives the sweetest compliments at times, "you suck c*** like a pro," he murmurs, staring at my swollen lips." He really is a romantic at heart, "the moment Dimitri reaches me, his arms go around me and his lips slide up my neck. "That look you just gave me - you're lucky I didn't take you out back and eff you so hard you screamed my name so loudly the entire club heard you." I hope this isn't the end of the series I hope Luke gets a story.
December 17, 2014
This is just pathetic now, I'm going to be a grandma by the time this comes out. Seriously wtf ? Stop pushing it back.
December 6, 2014
This is the 2nd book in the series and yes, it is a standalone, but just like any standalone within a series, it always enhance the reading if one reads in sequence.
Glad I got the opportunity to read Jess and Dimitri's story.
For starter, it was nice to see a new side to Jess. As a secondary character in Enslaved by the Ocean, I thought she was a bit of a mouse, granted with a bit of bite. Here, she's become a worthy h. Her core strength is a highlight and it was clear, like the blurb said, that she was feisty and strong headed.
Dimitri is quite the broken swoon-worthy H. I quite enjoyed how thrown-off he was by Jess.
It's quite touching seeing how the relationship evolved b/w these 2 broken MCs, as they try to be mindful of each other's dark past, how that affects their dynamics and how they start to draw strength from each other.
The story itself went sideways for me after Jess was And I didn't quite understand that small scene at the end when
Now, this doesn't necessarily have to do with this book alone, but I'm realizing that Bella's writing and I are going to have an interesting relationship. So far, I'm really liking all her MCs but I'm not completely enamored with how her story flows. The pace feels off at times. And sometimes, it feels like new events or angles are introduced as a last-minute decision, just thrown in haphazardly. If I compare it to movie-making, it's like giving A-list actors a mediocre script. Hope that makes sense.
It'll be interesting to see how I'll feel about Bella's other books on my TBR...
*Complimentary ARC received via Netgalley*
Glad I got the opportunity to read Jess and Dimitri's story.
For starter, it was nice to see a new side to Jess. As a secondary character in Enslaved by the Ocean, I thought she was a bit of a mouse, granted with a bit of bite. Here, she's become a worthy h. Her core strength is a highlight and it was clear, like the blurb said, that she was feisty and strong headed.
Dimitri is quite the broken swoon-worthy H. I quite enjoyed how thrown-off he was by Jess.
It's quite touching seeing how the relationship evolved b/w these 2 broken MCs, as they try to be mindful of each other's dark past, how that affects their dynamics and how they start to draw strength from each other.
The story itself went sideways for me after Jess was And I didn't quite understand that small scene at the end when
Now, this doesn't necessarily have to do with this book alone, but I'm realizing that Bella's writing and I are going to have an interesting relationship. So far, I'm really liking all her MCs but I'm not completely enamored with how her story flows. The pace feels off at times. And sometimes, it feels like new events or angles are introduced as a last-minute decision, just thrown in haphazardly. If I compare it to movie-making, it's like giving A-list actors a mediocre script. Hope that makes sense.
It'll be interesting to see how I'll feel about Bella's other books on my TBR...
*Complimentary ARC received via Netgalley*
January 18, 2015
OOOOOOH MAN....
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I preferred the first book, like way much more... All other books, I loooove them.... this one is my least favourite which makes me cry....
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I preferred the first book, like way much more... All other books, I loooove them.... this one is my least favourite which makes me cry....
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December 17, 2014
3 stars
I thought the author was going to follow through with the pirate theme for book 2 as well but this was not the case and probably why I didn't like this book as much as the first book or some of this authors recent releases. I couldn't really connect with the plot or the MCs so 3 stars for a 'meh' read.
I thought the author was going to follow through with the pirate theme for book 2 as well but this was not the case and probably why I didn't like this book as much as the first book or some of this authors recent releases. I couldn't really connect with the plot or the MCs so 3 stars for a 'meh' read.
February 22, 2015
Amazing, just as good as book 1!!! I love this series!!!
November 18, 2014
Review-Where Darkness Lies Where Darkness Lies is the second book in the latest series by Bella Jewel. Some months ago the first book was released and we saw the major players, in this story, which continues off from where the first book left off...which was a cliffhanger of sorts. We have Dimitri who is the son of Hendrix (hero of first book), and has some abandonment issues with his father. Dimitri has gone through hell when he was a teenager and there is one man on his mission for revenge...Hendrix. So Dimitri kidnaps Jess right in front of him. Jess has suffered her own hellish past, but Hendrix saved her and showed her a new way of living, and has been like the father she always dreamed of having. Now she is kidnapped, having no idea what Dimitri is really capable of...a man that makes her quiver in fear, but at the same time she feels a certain spark with him, one that she can't explain. Dimitri and Jess start to learn of each other and the importance of trust in a relationship, and soon that trust is to be tested in ways that they can't even imagine.... What a story!!! I just fell in love with this story...I honestly didn't know what would happen in this one. I recently fell in love with Bella Jewel, and I love a good pirate romance...and this one has a contemporary feel to it, which was different but was quite exciting and felt fresh in different ways. This story is very intense and dramatic at times, and had me on the edge of my seat...and I will be honest, it kept me up all night reading it!! Which doesn't happen too often anymore, but this story was one I have been anxiously waiting for ever since I read the first book. The characters in the story are pretty dynamic and full of depth in their characters. There were some things I just didn't see until revealed. Dimitri, is a man bent on revenge for some pretty horrid things done to him in his past, and he blames his father for it, even though Hendrix had no clue about it. We see how Dimitri really struggled with this both emotionally and mentally. He is quite a powerful man, and surely can fight in a ring...whew he could definitely heat the room by about 10 degrees or more. I wouldn't mind having that man at my mercy, he is sexy and steamy HOT!! Despite his past, he knows how to give a girl a good time, but he also has his own issues and there is only one woman that can truly handle him, a woman that can't have sex. Jess has a horrid past, and has been sexually abused, and has never had a positive experience when it comes to the bedroom...she stays far away from it..until she finds herself at the mercy of Dimitri and she feels desire for the first time in her life. We see Jess grow as a character, and learn the meaning of trust especially when it comes to intimacy. Despite the fact that Dimitri is really rough around the edges, he changes around Jess...he is gentle at times and I enjoyed how he handles her past and the trauma and, and enjoyed how the emotional intimacy of this couple really comes through and they help each other heal from their pasts. This story is quite intense at times, in every way.. If I had to pick my favorite aspect it would be the balance of emotional and physical intimacy that is put in this story, and Bella Jewel creates a gem of a story that captured by heart and attention. Very memorable and I found it to be packed with just about everything I love in a romance with this level of intensity. I do warn, it is not a light hearted romance...its full of tough issues and can get gritty and rough at times...but also it has it soft moments that wins your heart, there is so much about this story I adored. I loved the dynamics, the winning love story, and the real world issues that are brought to light, that create a love story to never forget. A JEWEL OF A READ!!
December 2, 2014
2.5 stars
This book actually started out really strong. After the cliffhanger we suffered with Enslaved by the Ocean, it was good to get into the fray of things quickly. Then the story kept progressing and this book took so many weird turns, that I was left with whiplash at the end. To read Where Darkness Lies, I mostly definitely recommend starting out with Enslaved, if not, a lot of Dimitri's motivation for revenge might not make sense.
Basically, due to their past history, Dimitri has a score to settle with Hendrix. Part of his plan for revenge leads him to kidnap Jess, the ship nurse, and someone who Hendrix saved and took under his wing. Dimitri and Jess, though they are quite more similar than they realize, clash a lot in the beginning due to Dimitri's plan to hurt Hendrix. Still, as they get to know one another, there's an undeniable pull between them that was quite sweet to read about. The relationship and feelings they develop for each other, and how they help one another surpass their past is the one thing I really did enjoy from this book.
Now unto to what I didn't like. This series is called Criminals of the Ocean, and that was the aspect I most loved about Enslaved. Let's face it, modern day pirates isn't really a prevalent theme in romance, so it was quite fun (and original) to read about them. The thing is though, while Dimitri snatches Jess off sea, he isn't a pirate at all. He just has a boat to track down Hendrix. What he does is have a lot a wealth (something I didn't understand how he achieved) and he participates in fight clubs in exchange for information he'll use to enact his revenge. So yes, I was dissapointed with that.
Still, the thing that just killed this book for me was the last 30%!
If this book had focused more on Dimitri and Jess, their relationship and how they worked through their pasts, it would have been stellar. Instead, we got a too fast-paced book that was neither here or there in any part and left me underwhelmed.
This book actually started out really strong. After the cliffhanger we suffered with Enslaved by the Ocean, it was good to get into the fray of things quickly. Then the story kept progressing and this book took so many weird turns, that I was left with whiplash at the end. To read Where Darkness Lies, I mostly definitely recommend starting out with Enslaved, if not, a lot of Dimitri's motivation for revenge might not make sense.
Basically, due to their past history, Dimitri has a score to settle with Hendrix. Part of his plan for revenge leads him to kidnap Jess, the ship nurse, and someone who Hendrix saved and took under his wing. Dimitri and Jess, though they are quite more similar than they realize, clash a lot in the beginning due to Dimitri's plan to hurt Hendrix. Still, as they get to know one another, there's an undeniable pull between them that was quite sweet to read about. The relationship and feelings they develop for each other, and how they help one another surpass their past is the one thing I really did enjoy from this book.
Now unto to what I didn't like. This series is called Criminals of the Ocean, and that was the aspect I most loved about Enslaved. Let's face it, modern day pirates isn't really a prevalent theme in romance, so it was quite fun (and original) to read about them. The thing is though, while Dimitri snatches Jess off sea, he isn't a pirate at all. He just has a boat to track down Hendrix. What he does is have a lot a wealth (something I didn't understand how he achieved) and he participates in fight clubs in exchange for information he'll use to enact his revenge. So yes, I was dissapointed with that.
Still, the thing that just killed this book for me was the last 30%!
If this book had focused more on Dimitri and Jess, their relationship and how they worked through their pasts, it would have been stellar. Instead, we got a too fast-paced book that was neither here or there in any part and left me underwhelmed.
November 12, 2014
Arc kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
3-slightly-confused-stars ******Spoilers for those who havent read book one!****
It’s been awhile since I read the first book in this series but a quick recap of the final chapter refreshed my memory – that is – the kidnapping of Jess. In the final moments of book one, just when Hendrix and Indi get their HEA, Jess is taken by Hendrix’s stepson Dimitri who is clearly pissed that Hendrix didn’t save him from his mother and traumatic childhood. So he’s out for revenge and thinks kidnapping Jess, who is very close to Hendrix, will help with that. I also remember thinking how dark and scary Dimitri was in those short scenes at the end, and add to that Jess’s equally horrifying past, I was looking forward to their story.
It picks up where the last scene ended, with Jess taken from Hendrix’s ship and ending up in LA, locked away in Dimitri’s house. At first Dimitri treats Jess like the prisoner she is, and a pawn to be used against Hendrix, but he of course comes to care for her and she him. I think this happened a little too fast for my liking, like one minute he hates her and the next he ‘sees’ something in her that he can relate to. As a result, Dimitri didn’t live up to the dark persona I imagined. His incessant need for revenge was confusing to me. Sure, his past is terrible but for him to be so set on making Hendrix pay…..surely he couldn’t think that was all Hendrix’s fault?
Jess was ok, but was a weird mix of a broken yet feisty heroine and I couldn’t really keep up with her changing between the two. She does manage to escape Dimitri about half way through, but after speaking to Hendrix, she decides to try and talk Dimitri round…..hoping she can change his mind about killing Hendrix. This I could sort of get my head around. But when her past catches up with her , Dimitri thinks she has run away again and played him. Grrrhhhh. This didn’t make sense either. Why would she escape, return then run away again?
The last 20% was a bit far-fetched to me. Jess being forced to Dimitri and Hendrix are therefore forced to work together to resolve the problem…..which of course leads to a HEA.
It was on the whole, an ok, quick read.
3-slightly-confused-stars ******Spoilers for those who havent read book one!****
It’s been awhile since I read the first book in this series but a quick recap of the final chapter refreshed my memory – that is – the kidnapping of Jess. In the final moments of book one, just when Hendrix and Indi get their HEA, Jess is taken by Hendrix’s stepson Dimitri who is clearly pissed that Hendrix didn’t save him from his mother and traumatic childhood. So he’s out for revenge and thinks kidnapping Jess, who is very close to Hendrix, will help with that. I also remember thinking how dark and scary Dimitri was in those short scenes at the end, and add to that Jess’s equally horrifying past, I was looking forward to their story.
It picks up where the last scene ended, with Jess taken from Hendrix’s ship and ending up in LA, locked away in Dimitri’s house. At first Dimitri treats Jess like the prisoner she is, and a pawn to be used against Hendrix, but he of course comes to care for her and she him. I think this happened a little too fast for my liking, like one minute he hates her and the next he ‘sees’ something in her that he can relate to. As a result, Dimitri didn’t live up to the dark persona I imagined. His incessant need for revenge was confusing to me. Sure, his past is terrible but for him to be so set on making Hendrix pay…..surely he couldn’t think that was all Hendrix’s fault?
Jess was ok, but was a weird mix of a broken yet feisty heroine and I couldn’t really keep up with her changing between the two. She does manage to escape Dimitri about half way through, but after speaking to Hendrix, she decides to try and talk Dimitri round…..hoping she can change his mind about killing Hendrix. This I could sort of get my head around. But when her past catches up with her , Dimitri thinks she has run away again and played him. Grrrhhhh. This didn’t make sense either. Why would she escape, return then run away again?
The last 20% was a bit far-fetched to me. Jess being forced to Dimitri and Hendrix are therefore forced to work together to resolve the problem…..which of course leads to a HEA.
It was on the whole, an ok, quick read.
November 18, 2014
5 land-loving stars!
Bella Jewel is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. I especially enjoy this series in particular. I never really thought of modern day pirates being hot but it totally works in this series.
In the first book we meet Hendrix and find out about his step-son Dimitri and their feud. At the end of the book there was a huge cliff-hanger that you shouldn't read about if you haven't read Enslaved by the Ocean yet. (Dimitri captures and steals Jess from Hendrix. ) He wants to use Jess to get back at Hendrix. Dimitri doesn't expect Jess to work her way into his heart but she does. She is caught between Hendrix who she owes her life to and Dimitri who she loves.
Dimitri seems like a violent and scary person but he is really just a big teddy bear when it comes to Jess. I loved every character and every part of this book. I devoured it in one sitting and couldn't put it down. If you like captives/capture love stories or pirate love stories then this is the series for you.
December 18, 2014
Can't wait!!!
February 26, 2018
What to say, what to say….
Well, to start off I did like this book. I just didn’t like it as much-nearly as much- as its predecessor, Enslaved by the Ocean. I’m a sucker for pirates and sea adventures so I snatched up the kindle book and accompanying audio for $3. This book picks up right where Enslaved leaves off, when the heroine Jess is kidnapped by a pirate Dimitri right off the ship where she lives. I prepared for another adventure on the open waters to begin. So imagine my disappointment when Dimitri immediately takes Jess to California where they dock his ship. That’s right…they spend about 5 minutes in the beginning on the actual pirate ship before heading to L.A. So basically this was a story about a docked pirate who, due to a years-long misunderstanding, is using Jess to get back at his longtime enemy Hendrix.
I did like the back and forth between Jess and Dimitri; you know they’re going to fall for each other you’re just not sure how or when. They did bond over some similar traumatic events they’d both experienced, but not until later in the book when Jess was forced due to some outside circumstances to share her past with him.
I was disappointed that there was no real sense of danger at all until the end of the book when some very unlikely events bring Jess back into the hands of a man who terrorized her as a child. But even when she’s first kidnapped by Dimitri, there’s really no fear that she’s not safe. Nothing bad really happens around her, the “pirates” seem more like a rowdy group of friends hanging out. It’s basically a lot of talking, getting to know each other, eventual removal of the clothes and what not, until Jess is re-kidnapped by someone else and thrown into an underground women’s wrestling league.
You read that correctly, lol. I enjoyed the nice little twist there and how Dimitri was suddenly replaced by an actual bad guy who does bad things. Once Jess’s life was in actual danger things got exciting. But that was at maybe 75-80% through the book and was pretty much just a means to propel us towards the inevitable HEA.
So while I liked this book, I’d have to stick with Enslaved by the Ocean as my favorite of the series, since it takes place on the actual ocean with actual pirates whom we don’t know and can’t trust. Dimitri is a character who’s mentioned in the first book and just never holds that level of threatening unfamiliarity as the book’s mysterious male MC. I liked Jess as the heroine and they were a good pair at the end but it just wasn’t as fun as the first book.
Well, to start off I did like this book. I just didn’t like it as much-nearly as much- as its predecessor, Enslaved by the Ocean. I’m a sucker for pirates and sea adventures so I snatched up the kindle book and accompanying audio for $3. This book picks up right where Enslaved leaves off, when the heroine Jess is kidnapped by a pirate Dimitri right off the ship where she lives. I prepared for another adventure on the open waters to begin. So imagine my disappointment when Dimitri immediately takes Jess to California where they dock his ship. That’s right…they spend about 5 minutes in the beginning on the actual pirate ship before heading to L.A. So basically this was a story about a docked pirate who, due to a years-long misunderstanding, is using Jess to get back at his longtime enemy Hendrix.
I did like the back and forth between Jess and Dimitri; you know they’re going to fall for each other you’re just not sure how or when. They did bond over some similar traumatic events they’d both experienced, but not until later in the book when Jess was forced due to some outside circumstances to share her past with him.
I was disappointed that there was no real sense of danger at all until the end of the book when some very unlikely events bring Jess back into the hands of a man who terrorized her as a child. But even when she’s first kidnapped by Dimitri, there’s really no fear that she’s not safe. Nothing bad really happens around her, the “pirates” seem more like a rowdy group of friends hanging out. It’s basically a lot of talking, getting to know each other, eventual removal of the clothes and what not, until Jess is re-kidnapped by someone else and thrown into an underground women’s wrestling league.
You read that correctly, lol. I enjoyed the nice little twist there and how Dimitri was suddenly replaced by an actual bad guy who does bad things. Once Jess’s life was in actual danger things got exciting. But that was at maybe 75-80% through the book and was pretty much just a means to propel us towards the inevitable HEA.
So while I liked this book, I’d have to stick with Enslaved by the Ocean as my favorite of the series, since it takes place on the actual ocean with actual pirates whom we don’t know and can’t trust. Dimitri is a character who’s mentioned in the first book and just never holds that level of threatening unfamiliarity as the book’s mysterious male MC. I liked Jess as the heroine and they were a good pair at the end but it just wasn’t as fun as the first book.
November 2, 2021
The second in a sexy pirate series from Bella Jewel. This one is Jess' story, one where we meet Dimitri, Hendrix's son from the first one. They both have a lot of pain from sexual abuse in their pasts and this leads them to have complete lack of trust for anyone in their lives. Their relationship isn't as mature as Hendrix and Indie in the first book, and rightly so since their past dictates everything. But Jewel focuses a lot on abuse in her books and she knows how to bring it up respectfully - and allow us to witness the healing that they all begin to go through. What I also love about her books is that the heroines are fighters. They can be a little damsel-in-distress at times, but right when you think it will stick, the girls fight back and do what they need to in order to survive. Great sequel to an awesome pirate series.
January 3, 2017
The story begins with us meeting Jess. She has just been kidnapped and is being held in a cell on a boat in the ocean, she knows this has something to do with Hendrix.
This is my first pirate book and I loved the premise. There are elements of forbidden love, suspense, and extreme hotness. Wow! I really loved Where Darkness Lies, it had everything. It was funny, I laughed out loud at Jess so many times, the chick and her thoughts are hilarious. It had suspense, angst and sex scene's. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Stayed up late to read it and than woke up early to finish it; always a good sign!
"Fight until you can't breathe."
I am where darkness lies.
...the angel of darkness.
She's not afraid; she's been strong, and tough, and mouthy. Then I tied her. And she broke. Like me. Broken.
"Maybe I wanted to make it hurt." He lifts his eyes, and stares hard at me.
"Now why would you want to do that?"
"The pain is better than the memories."
In his world, Hendrix is the best. he's deadly, he's determined, and he's powerful.
In Dimitri's world, he's the best. If those world collide, who will come out on top?
Life is such a struggle...
I've met a lot of women in my time, but never one so determined as she. She's not willing to break, not willing to show a piece of herself that's anything other than hard. She's just like me, in a sense. That never makes for a good combination.
I've lived through worse... I've run with the ultimate criminals and I've seen things most wouldn't see in their lifetime. What most people shouldn't see in their lifetime. I'm prepared for whatever's thrown at me. I'll keep my cool. I won't show fear, and I won't let him see any kind of weakness in me. I won't break, It's just not who I am.
"Women like you, they're different. You're not the same as a thousand others, you're one of your own So while you might not be the stereotype, you can be so much more beautiful."
"I can see beyond what everyone else sees. I can see the side to you that you've pushed down. I can see a part of me in you. I feel a connection when I'm with you, and understanding ... but more than anything, I feel you, Dimitri. With everything I am."
She's killing me ... in the best way possible.
"What wrong with cute?"
"Cute is what you call the guy you don't think is good-looking, but you don't want to insult."
"Okay, how about this? You're sex, hot, smokin', panty-melter the wetter of all pussies everywhere."
This is my first pirate book and I loved the premise. There are elements of forbidden love, suspense, and extreme hotness. Wow! I really loved Where Darkness Lies, it had everything. It was funny, I laughed out loud at Jess so many times, the chick and her thoughts are hilarious. It had suspense, angst and sex scene's. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Stayed up late to read it and than woke up early to finish it; always a good sign!
"Fight until you can't breathe."
I am where darkness lies.
...the angel of darkness.
She's not afraid; she's been strong, and tough, and mouthy. Then I tied her. And she broke. Like me. Broken.
"Maybe I wanted to make it hurt." He lifts his eyes, and stares hard at me.
"Now why would you want to do that?"
"The pain is better than the memories."
In his world, Hendrix is the best. he's deadly, he's determined, and he's powerful.
In Dimitri's world, he's the best. If those world collide, who will come out on top?
Life is such a struggle...
I've met a lot of women in my time, but never one so determined as she. She's not willing to break, not willing to show a piece of herself that's anything other than hard. She's just like me, in a sense. That never makes for a good combination.
I've lived through worse... I've run with the ultimate criminals and I've seen things most wouldn't see in their lifetime. What most people shouldn't see in their lifetime. I'm prepared for whatever's thrown at me. I'll keep my cool. I won't show fear, and I won't let him see any kind of weakness in me. I won't break, It's just not who I am.
"Women like you, they're different. You're not the same as a thousand others, you're one of your own So while you might not be the stereotype, you can be so much more beautiful."
"I can see beyond what everyone else sees. I can see the side to you that you've pushed down. I can see a part of me in you. I feel a connection when I'm with you, and understanding ... but more than anything, I feel you, Dimitri. With everything I am."
She's killing me ... in the best way possible.
"What wrong with cute?"
"Cute is what you call the guy you don't think is good-looking, but you don't want to insult."
"Okay, how about this? You're sex, hot, smokin', panty-melter the wetter of all pussies everywhere."
November 16, 2014
4.5 Revenge Stars
Warning: This is the second book in the Criminals of the Ocean Series aka The Hot Pirate Guys Series. It could be read as a stand alone, but I recommend reading them in order.
There are some things you should just give up. Buying sushi from a food truck. Expecting people to not talk about the Dallas Cowboys, win or lose, on Monday. The hope that you will one day have ALL the socks matched up at the same time. All of these dreams should be given up. Another one....Revenge. It only makes you tired to carry that around. It does nothing to the person you actually want revenge on. It just weights you down.
Jesse is a waif of a girl who was the medic of sorts on a modern day Pirate ship. Until she got caught in the crossfire of a years old revenge battle between pirates. A Peg Leg Family Feud as it were. Now she find herself as the kidnappee in the high seas drama.
Dimitri wants revenge on his step-father. He has spent considerable time and money to make his step-father regret his actions. Actions that lead to some deep emotional trouble for Dimitri. He has trouble trusting. Even trusting the tiny young woman he now holds hostage.
He leans in close, letting his eyes burn into mine. "There ain't no innocence in anything that comes from hell, girl."
Jesse has her own demons. She has a secret from her past that is keeping her from living a whole life.
The pain is better than the memories.
Can Jesse teach Dimitri to trust? Can she ease the need he has for revenge? Show him that there is more to life than waiting to get yours?
"I'm not healed", I say, turning away. "I'm surviving. There's a massive difference".
I love Ms Jewel's MC books and enjoyed the first Criminals in Boats. This one doesn't spend as much time on the water or with the set up. You jump right into the action. Just like I like it.
Warning: This is the second book in the Criminals of the Ocean Series aka The Hot Pirate Guys Series. It could be read as a stand alone, but I recommend reading them in order.
There are some things you should just give up. Buying sushi from a food truck. Expecting people to not talk about the Dallas Cowboys, win or lose, on Monday. The hope that you will one day have ALL the socks matched up at the same time. All of these dreams should be given up. Another one....Revenge. It only makes you tired to carry that around. It does nothing to the person you actually want revenge on. It just weights you down.
Jesse is a waif of a girl who was the medic of sorts on a modern day Pirate ship. Until she got caught in the crossfire of a years old revenge battle between pirates. A Peg Leg Family Feud as it were. Now she find herself as the kidnappee in the high seas drama.
Dimitri wants revenge on his step-father. He has spent considerable time and money to make his step-father regret his actions. Actions that lead to some deep emotional trouble for Dimitri. He has trouble trusting. Even trusting the tiny young woman he now holds hostage.
He leans in close, letting his eyes burn into mine. "There ain't no innocence in anything that comes from hell, girl."
Jesse has her own demons. She has a secret from her past that is keeping her from living a whole life.
The pain is better than the memories.
Can Jesse teach Dimitri to trust? Can she ease the need he has for revenge? Show him that there is more to life than waiting to get yours?
"I'm not healed", I say, turning away. "I'm surviving. There's a massive difference".
I love Ms Jewel's MC books and enjoyed the first Criminals in Boats. This one doesn't spend as much time on the water or with the set up. You jump right into the action. Just like I like it.
December 28, 2014
This book picks up where book 1 ended. It could be read as a standalone, however to really understand the characters I would recommend reading book 1, which was a 5 star read for me. In this book you have a mix of modern day pirates (like a floating MC), a little MMA/cage fighting, some mafia type, nefarious dealings by Dimitri, a case of revenge biting you on the ass and a profound love story. Dimitri is the stepson of Hendrix, the main character from book 1. He feels Hendrix abandoned him during the darkest period of his life and he now seeks revenge or payback against Hendrix. Hendrix rescued Jess from an abusive relationship and she has lived on Hendrix’s boat for two years. She has a big brother type love for Hendrix and is loyal to him. Dimitri kidnaps Jess because he thinks Jess and Hendrix have a romantic relationship. Both Dimitri and Jess are sexual abuse survivors, both have been raped and abused in their past so they come with some very heavy emotional baggage. Ms. Jewel, as usual, sucked me right into these characters, made me feel their pain and kept me championing them through the entire book. I felt the pain of both Dimitri and Jess as they made the journey together to build a trusting relationship that enabled them to open their hearts to each other and lay the past demons to rest. In the end, Dimitri realizes revenge is often a double edged sword. There are some similarities to book 1 but they are definitely not overwhelming. The author delivered a totally different type of relationship and romantic dynamics than the first book.
As usual Bella Jewel has written another 5 star read and I highly recommend this book if you like a strong heroine, an alpha possessive male who needs someone to love him and a storyline that will keep you reading.
I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
As usual Bella Jewel has written another 5 star read and I highly recommend this book if you like a strong heroine, an alpha possessive male who needs someone to love him and a storyline that will keep you reading.
I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
July 24, 2014*** They have updated the expected release date to December. Now i can at least get it off my 'radar' for the next few months and stop driving myself mad with checkins.
Another new book marked for release mid June 2014... and it's not this book... annoying much?... NOOOOOOOO
Hullooooo... I only read this one last night cause EVERYTHING said number two was out on Feb 15... Almost a month later and no show... Plus we have a cliff hanger. NOT happy Jan!
Another new book marked for release mid June 2014... and it's not this book... annoying much?... NOOOOOOOO
Hullooooo... I only read this one last night cause EVERYTHING said number two was out on Feb 15... Almost a month later and no show... Plus we have a cliff hanger. NOT happy Jan!
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