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Bound in Darkness
Mackenzie
After a tragic car accident took my brother’s life, Chase Landon became my foster brother. I viewed him as the enemy, a poor replacement for the brother I lost.
I had no idea Chase would change my world, turning it upside down.
One seemingly innocent night unleashed a chain of events that forced me to confront my forbidden feelings and would lead to us being captured by a cult with nefarious plans for us.
Together, we must do the impossible. Survive.
Chase
When I first saw Mackenzie Collins, it was love at first sight, even though she hated me.
One fateful night changed everything, forcing us to confront our forbidden feelings. Before the night ended, we'd be captured by a dangerous cult with plans to sacrifice us as part of their sadistic, dark rituals.
I’m determined to save Mackenzie's life, even if it means mine must end.
Will our love set us free so that we can escape this horrific nightmare? Or will we be bound in darkness forever?
TROPES:
He Falls First
Cinnamon Roll MMC
Cult
Dark Rituals & Themes
Forbidden
HEA
*Please see the author's website for a complete list of CW/TW.
This is a standalone novel containing dark themes that may be triggering for some. For 18+ readers.
Bound in Darkness is the first novel in the interconnected Divinity of the Chosen Ones series.
After a tragic car accident took my brother’s life, Chase Landon became my foster brother. I viewed him as the enemy, a poor replacement for the brother I lost.
I had no idea Chase would change my world, turning it upside down.
One seemingly innocent night unleashed a chain of events that forced me to confront my forbidden feelings and would lead to us being captured by a cult with nefarious plans for us.
Together, we must do the impossible. Survive.
Chase
When I first saw Mackenzie Collins, it was love at first sight, even though she hated me.
One fateful night changed everything, forcing us to confront our forbidden feelings. Before the night ended, we'd be captured by a dangerous cult with plans to sacrifice us as part of their sadistic, dark rituals.
I’m determined to save Mackenzie's life, even if it means mine must end.
Will our love set us free so that we can escape this horrific nightmare? Or will we be bound in darkness forever?
TROPES:
He Falls First
Cinnamon Roll MMC
Cult
Dark Rituals & Themes
Forbidden
HEA
*Please see the author's website for a complete list of CW/TW.
This is a standalone novel containing dark themes that may be triggering for some. For 18+ readers.
Bound in Darkness is the first novel in the interconnected Divinity of the Chosen Ones series.
- GenresDarkDark Romance
609 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 15, 2024
About the author
Jennifer Rose
22 books98 followersJennifer Rose lives in a small town in Pennsylvania with her best friend and husband, two dachshunds, and a rabbit. She loves frozen mocha coffees, fall/Halloween, and long walks in nature.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 19, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐♾
Oh hell I did not expect the book to be this dark and heartbreaking. I finished it in a day because I could not stop reading for the life of me
God, these two characters are the only ones that I've read that have gone through so much pain and torture🤧 i couldn't take in what happened to them and the shit they had to endure but still standing strong and refusing the darkness to taint their love
This is one of most darkest books I've read. I'm not even kidding, my jaw was on the floor the entirety of the book. I had to stop reading and stare at the wall for a moment there.
Chase is adopted into the FMC's house, Mackenzie, right after her brother dies in a car accident which she miraculously survives. The first time Chase sees her, he fell hard and fast but never showing her that because she was his foster sister. Long story short, Chase and Mackenzie get abducted by a cult, where they keep them both captive and they rape the fmc front of Chase, makes him watch while he's helpless and being tortured. Yes, the book is very violent and have so many triggers. After so many days of being held captive, they escape and run away. But the trauma and the memories of being torn from their innocence haunts them both daily.
Chase's love and devotion to Mackenzie was everything. He did everything in his power to protect her but still thinks he failed after everything that happened to them. They had the precious soul mate kind of love and so beautiful and perfect together, each complimenting the other. They both help the other heal. And I loved the support of the FMC's father and the constant encouragement of Melody and Jeff even when everyone you thought cared about you left you in the end.
*sigh
Ahhhh the love story in this is so powerful it made me cry😭💗
I love them so much and this book!!!! Always will have a special place in my heart🙌🏻💗
Oh hell I did not expect the book to be this dark and heartbreaking. I finished it in a day because I could not stop reading for the life of me
God, these two characters are the only ones that I've read that have gone through so much pain and torture🤧 i couldn't take in what happened to them and the shit they had to endure but still standing strong and refusing the darkness to taint their love
This is one of most darkest books I've read. I'm not even kidding, my jaw was on the floor the entirety of the book. I had to stop reading and stare at the wall for a moment there.
Chase is adopted into the FMC's house, Mackenzie, right after her brother dies in a car accident which she miraculously survives. The first time Chase sees her, he fell hard and fast but never showing her that because she was his foster sister. Long story short, Chase and Mackenzie get abducted by a cult, where they keep them both captive and they rape the fmc front of Chase, makes him watch while he's helpless and being tortured. Yes, the book is very violent and have so many triggers. After so many days of being held captive, they escape and run away. But the trauma and the memories of being torn from their innocence haunts them both daily.
Chase's love and devotion to Mackenzie was everything. He did everything in his power to protect her but still thinks he failed after everything that happened to them. They had the precious soul mate kind of love and so beautiful and perfect together, each complimenting the other. They both help the other heal. And I loved the support of the FMC's father and the constant encouragement of Melody and Jeff even when everyone you thought cared about you left you in the end.
*sigh
Ahhhh the love story in this is so powerful it made me cry😭💗
I love them so much and this book!!!! Always will have a special place in my heart🙌🏻💗
February 8, 2024
An ARC was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. This review contains my own opinion and does not reflect the viewpoint of the author. This review may contain spoilers, reader discretion is advised.
Trigger Warning: This book is VERY dark and contains disturbing content. Check your triggers and make sure you practice self care while reading.
Jennifer Rose is back and darker than ever. Bound in Darkness is her darkest and most delicious novel to date that you need to get a copy of. With nonstop surprises, twists and turns you’d never guess, and a unique cast of characters… there’s no way you could put this down. Despite this being Rose’s longest book, I tore through the pages and had it finished within a few hours. Once you start, you can’t stop.
Chase and Mackenzie are electric, their chemistry is off the charts from the start. Both have experienced loss and find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. Chase has a dirty mouth and the heart of a romantic. Mackenzie is a young woman who stands tall and has no problem snapping back at her captors. Chase has a calmness that calls to Mackenzie. Mackenzie has become Chase’s purpose in life. The two are a force to be reckoned with and they refuse to be broken. They cling to each other as they fight the biggest challenge of their young lives and are willing to die for each other. They see a future together, despite the fact that they are foster siblings and are constantly told their relationship is forbidden. But if they want a happily ever after, they’re going to need to survive first… and it’s not just the cult that they have to survive…
Rose explores the dark world of cults and sends her readers into a mindblowing deep dive of the depraved. Between the human sacrifices, the disturbing mind games, and a cult leader drunk on psychosis no stone is left unturned. We meet a unique cast of cult members that are so vivid that you can see them clearly.
I know I rave about Rose’s books on a regular basis, this one is truly different. It’s her masterpiece, a true paragon of literature. I cannot truly express the excellence of this book. It will leave you breathless, restless, speechless, and obsessed.
Don’t miss the upcoming sequels to this incredible book and be sure to check out Rose’s other works. I promise you, you will not be disappointed!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Likelihood to Recommend: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trigger Warning: This book is VERY dark and contains disturbing content. Check your triggers and make sure you practice self care while reading.
Jennifer Rose is back and darker than ever. Bound in Darkness is her darkest and most delicious novel to date that you need to get a copy of. With nonstop surprises, twists and turns you’d never guess, and a unique cast of characters… there’s no way you could put this down. Despite this being Rose’s longest book, I tore through the pages and had it finished within a few hours. Once you start, you can’t stop.
Chase and Mackenzie are electric, their chemistry is off the charts from the start. Both have experienced loss and find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. Chase has a dirty mouth and the heart of a romantic. Mackenzie is a young woman who stands tall and has no problem snapping back at her captors. Chase has a calmness that calls to Mackenzie. Mackenzie has become Chase’s purpose in life. The two are a force to be reckoned with and they refuse to be broken. They cling to each other as they fight the biggest challenge of their young lives and are willing to die for each other. They see a future together, despite the fact that they are foster siblings and are constantly told their relationship is forbidden. But if they want a happily ever after, they’re going to need to survive first… and it’s not just the cult that they have to survive…
Rose explores the dark world of cults and sends her readers into a mindblowing deep dive of the depraved. Between the human sacrifices, the disturbing mind games, and a cult leader drunk on psychosis no stone is left unturned. We meet a unique cast of cult members that are so vivid that you can see them clearly.
I know I rave about Rose’s books on a regular basis, this one is truly different. It’s her masterpiece, a true paragon of literature. I cannot truly express the excellence of this book. It will leave you breathless, restless, speechless, and obsessed.
Don’t miss the upcoming sequels to this incredible book and be sure to check out Rose’s other works. I promise you, you will not be disappointed!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Likelihood to Recommend: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2024
Please check TW and read responsibly.
This book is more than just dark themes and horrific events that both Chase and Mackenzie experience after being kidnapped by a sadistic cult known as "The Divinity Of The Chosen Ones." This is a journey from finding strength and love through the most horrific moments in life that will test their bonds and need for survival. Prepare to have your heart broken multiple times but eventually mended by the end.
The author masterfully weaves not only horrific events from captivity to survival to escape but also shows the love and strength these two teens forge in and out of captivity and along the way. Having both Chase and Mackenzie once again feel the need to protect this vulnerable bond they share as friendships and family bonds will be tested as these two navigate a new normal and try to heal after captivity.
From insurmountable pain lies the sweet bliss of true and unforgettable love between two people who have a barrage of issues stacked against them from the start. It's a compelling journey from young love to hopeless survival to finding a new norm and possibly an epic HEA.
I found myself pulled in from the start and lost track of time and word counts here. I just let these characters take me on a journey that broke me at times but mended me back by the end. I can't stress enough if you are looking for a book that brings a tidal wave of emotions spanning from start to finish this is your book. Although this book does hit on dark themes it has a balance of the dark and light throughout that helps the emotional journey that these characters go through. It's more than just a dark captivity romance it's a true love story that gives you hope and healing along the way. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for something captivating and healing with a love story woven in the dark traumatic moments. It's hands down a story you won't forget once you hit the end. I'm excited to see more to come in this interconnected series. A Must Read of 2024!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶+
This book is more than just dark themes and horrific events that both Chase and Mackenzie experience after being kidnapped by a sadistic cult known as "The Divinity Of The Chosen Ones." This is a journey from finding strength and love through the most horrific moments in life that will test their bonds and need for survival. Prepare to have your heart broken multiple times but eventually mended by the end.
The author masterfully weaves not only horrific events from captivity to survival to escape but also shows the love and strength these two teens forge in and out of captivity and along the way. Having both Chase and Mackenzie once again feel the need to protect this vulnerable bond they share as friendships and family bonds will be tested as these two navigate a new normal and try to heal after captivity.
From insurmountable pain lies the sweet bliss of true and unforgettable love between two people who have a barrage of issues stacked against them from the start. It's a compelling journey from young love to hopeless survival to finding a new norm and possibly an epic HEA.
I found myself pulled in from the start and lost track of time and word counts here. I just let these characters take me on a journey that broke me at times but mended me back by the end. I can't stress enough if you are looking for a book that brings a tidal wave of emotions spanning from start to finish this is your book. Although this book does hit on dark themes it has a balance of the dark and light throughout that helps the emotional journey that these characters go through. It's more than just a dark captivity romance it's a true love story that gives you hope and healing along the way. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for something captivating and healing with a love story woven in the dark traumatic moments. It's hands down a story you won't forget once you hit the end. I'm excited to see more to come in this interconnected series. A Must Read of 2024!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶+
February 10, 2024
First and foremost-check the trigger warnings. If you have no trigger and love a book that has a long list of triggers. This book is for you. Now for my review. Which I am leaving as spoiler free as possible, but could still feel like a spoiler.
So this book has dark elements to it and hits a lot of dark, sick, and twisted things. The way that Jennifer wrote it though, is beyond words. I was so immersed in this story that I almost felt that I was actually in the story with them. Have you ever read a book and felt like it was actually a movie playing? Yes? This was it for me.
Chase and Mackenzie get captured by a cult and go through such horrible things. I held my breath so many times without realizing it until the scene ended. You learn more about both of their lives prior to meeting and getting captured and it was not always sunshine and glitter.
They have gone through so much heartache and pain than most people their age would ever face in their entire lives.
One of the most amazing things about this book... The fact that Jennifer brings you through their lives AFTER escaping the crazy cult members. You get to see them grow and evolve. They find out who their true friends and FAMILY are. They get the help that they need. You learn more about them and even though they've both been through SO much, a little more comes at them.
But in the end the HEA is so beyond worth it. The bond, the relationships, the love, the hope, and the survival.
The fact that Jennifer was able to write this book and make you feel all of the emotions that Chase and Mackenzie felt. The fact that she could have stopped right after their escape and said they lived happily ever after, but she did not.
She gives you such an amazing story that makes you think, feel, and can't wait for more.
I cannot get enough of this story. Thank you for breaking my heart so many times, making me ball my eyes out, and then put it back together and make my heart beyond happy to where I was smiling like Orpheus and my husband gave me the weirdest looks.
So this book has dark elements to it and hits a lot of dark, sick, and twisted things. The way that Jennifer wrote it though, is beyond words. I was so immersed in this story that I almost felt that I was actually in the story with them. Have you ever read a book and felt like it was actually a movie playing? Yes? This was it for me.
Chase and Mackenzie get captured by a cult and go through such horrible things. I held my breath so many times without realizing it until the scene ended. You learn more about both of their lives prior to meeting and getting captured and it was not always sunshine and glitter.
They have gone through so much heartache and pain than most people their age would ever face in their entire lives.
One of the most amazing things about this book... The fact that Jennifer brings you through their lives AFTER escaping the crazy cult members. You get to see them grow and evolve. They find out who their true friends and FAMILY are. They get the help that they need. You learn more about them and even though they've both been through SO much, a little more comes at them.
But in the end the HEA is so beyond worth it. The bond, the relationships, the love, the hope, and the survival.
The fact that Jennifer was able to write this book and make you feel all of the emotions that Chase and Mackenzie felt. The fact that she could have stopped right after their escape and said they lived happily ever after, but she did not.
She gives you such an amazing story that makes you think, feel, and can't wait for more.
I cannot get enough of this story. Thank you for breaking my heart so many times, making me ball my eyes out, and then put it back together and make my heart beyond happy to where I was smiling like Orpheus and my husband gave me the weirdest looks.
February 16, 2024
Can’t wait for the next one 💕
Bound in Darkness- first please check your trigger warnings. ⚠️ There are extremely dark themes throughout the book. ⚠️Kenzie and Chase have a weird relationship before they are kidnapped. They are both drawn to one another while Kenzie tries to fight her feelings Chase has no problem embracing his. After the death of Kenzie’s brother, Chase comes to live with her family. He shows protective/possessive qualities from the start. After he ambushes her and pulls her from a party she snuck out to go to they are in a car accident and then kidnapped by “The Divinity of The Chosen Ones”.
When I say this book ripped me apart 😭😭 but it put me back together. The stuff that they endured would break most but together they made it through. They truly cling to one another in everything they go through. The trauma they have survived in the past and the present they help each other heal through. The first 50% of the book is what happens to them while they were in captivity the second half is after they make it home. Chase is one of my new favorite book boyfriends. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
“You think Mackenzie is my weakness. But I know better. She’s my strength. My f*€k!ng heart.”
He Falls First
Cinnamon Roll MMC
Cult
Dark Rituals & Themes
Forbidden
HEA
Touch her and 💀
Bound in Darkness- first please check your trigger warnings. ⚠️ There are extremely dark themes throughout the book. ⚠️Kenzie and Chase have a weird relationship before they are kidnapped. They are both drawn to one another while Kenzie tries to fight her feelings Chase has no problem embracing his. After the death of Kenzie’s brother, Chase comes to live with her family. He shows protective/possessive qualities from the start. After he ambushes her and pulls her from a party she snuck out to go to they are in a car accident and then kidnapped by “The Divinity of The Chosen Ones”.
When I say this book ripped me apart 😭😭 but it put me back together. The stuff that they endured would break most but together they made it through. They truly cling to one another in everything they go through. The trauma they have survived in the past and the present they help each other heal through. The first 50% of the book is what happens to them while they were in captivity the second half is after they make it home. Chase is one of my new favorite book boyfriends. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
“You think Mackenzie is my weakness. But I know better. She’s my strength. My f*€k!ng heart.”
He Falls First
Cinnamon Roll MMC
Cult
Dark Rituals & Themes
Forbidden
HEA
Touch her and 💀
February 12, 2024
Wow… what an emotional few days it’s been reading this book. I’ve never felt such deep feelings of despair, hatred, anxiety and happiness throughout the course of a book before. I think I need a few days to calm down and process. I started this book with expectations on what I thought would happen, but they were completely blown out of the water.
Jennifer has perfectly created a world where the cult of the Divinity of the Chosen ones reside. Their actions are hellish, degrading and downright evil and our poor main characters Chase and Mackenzie get caught up in their orbit of evil. The first 50% percent of this book is not for the faint hearted. You become so immersed in what is happening to Chase and Mackenzie you literally hold your breath. I myself spent a couple of sleepless nights reading this book my heart aching for them. Although you do get some reprieve in the second half of the book, it turns out the cult aren’t the only evils in this world our characters have to face.
There are some heartwarmingly good parts to this story as well to balance the book and the spicy scenes are wonderfully descriptive, giving the reader a breather when you need it most.
I’m so pleased there are going to be more books in this series and more stories to explore.
Jennifer has perfectly created a world where the cult of the Divinity of the Chosen ones reside. Their actions are hellish, degrading and downright evil and our poor main characters Chase and Mackenzie get caught up in their orbit of evil. The first 50% percent of this book is not for the faint hearted. You become so immersed in what is happening to Chase and Mackenzie you literally hold your breath. I myself spent a couple of sleepless nights reading this book my heart aching for them. Although you do get some reprieve in the second half of the book, it turns out the cult aren’t the only evils in this world our characters have to face.
There are some heartwarmingly good parts to this story as well to balance the book and the spicy scenes are wonderfully descriptive, giving the reader a breather when you need it most.
I’m so pleased there are going to be more books in this series and more stories to explore.
February 7, 2024
One of my favorite books of 2024!
After Mackenzie loses her brother in a tragic accident, Chase comes to live with her family. At first she tries to push him away in effort to stay loyal to her brother. She believes her family is trying to replace him with Chase. On the way home from a party, she is finally ready to give into her feelings when they are both taken by a creepy cult.
I absolutely adore Chase and Mackenzie. They have both been through so much already in their lives, yet are still strong people. They are perfect together and help build each other up. Chase is perfect book boyfriend material. He is so sweet and protective, but still alpha at the same time. Mackenzie is sassy and equally protective of Chase.
I loved reading their healing journey and how realistic it was. It didn’t just gloss over what they went through, but stayed true to what healing from trauma is like. I truly enjoyed their story and look forward to reading more stories in this series.
Make sure you check the trigger warnings and read responsibly. 🖤
After Mackenzie loses her brother in a tragic accident, Chase comes to live with her family. At first she tries to push him away in effort to stay loyal to her brother. She believes her family is trying to replace him with Chase. On the way home from a party, she is finally ready to give into her feelings when they are both taken by a creepy cult.
I absolutely adore Chase and Mackenzie. They have both been through so much already in their lives, yet are still strong people. They are perfect together and help build each other up. Chase is perfect book boyfriend material. He is so sweet and protective, but still alpha at the same time. Mackenzie is sassy and equally protective of Chase.
I loved reading their healing journey and how realistic it was. It didn’t just gloss over what they went through, but stayed true to what healing from trauma is like. I truly enjoyed their story and look forward to reading more stories in this series.
Make sure you check the trigger warnings and read responsibly. 🖤
February 10, 2024
I had the pleasure to read this book and let me just tell you it completely broke my heart yet glued it all back together so beautifully. Be prepared for a long read and please check TW cause this was a very dark read. I got to see both main characters (Chase & Mackenzie) grow into some amazing people even through all the trauma they went through and continued to go through while trying to heal. What these two went through was just awful, but the love they shared was so beautiful. I cannot wait to read the other books about some of the characters you meet in this story.
February 15, 2024
Wow! This book was an emotional read, it’s taken me a while to process what I’ve just read as the angst and heartbreak is unreal. I was totally immersed in this story and I felt all the emotions the characters felt. You can tell the author researched her subject matter well and it was fascinating to see the inner workings of cult living. All in all this was a gritty story about surviving, friendship and love when all the odds are stacked against you.
Mind the triggers though, not for the faint of heart
Mind the triggers though, not for the faint of heart
February 9, 2024
I'm really bad at writing long reviews so I'll just say chase and mackenzies story is a wild ride. The roller coaster of trauma and healing is heart-rending and I was buckled in for EVERY WORD!!! Cannot wait for more from Jennifer!
February 13, 2024
This book contains so many dark topics (kidnapping, physical violence, rape, satanic cults, murder, etc.) I am glad the author didn't focus on just the dark topics. To me, it felt like the focus was on how love can strengthen you. How love can push us and drive us to over come some of the darkest, most vile days of our lives.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2024
This was such a detailed account of what happens when two people are kidnapped by a psychotic cult and have to hold on to each other for strength just to make it through. But then what happens when they get out? How do they survive that madness? The storytelling and character development by this author is impeccable. This should actually be a movie or miniseries. So captivating!
February 15, 2024
Wow, this book had me on a very dark emotional rollercoaster. I don't think I have ever cried so much just reading a book. I felt the pain in the characters. I just wanted to jump in the book and hug them. Make sure you check the trigger warnings for this book. This book is not for everyone.
May 30, 2024
Mixed feelings on this one! Great smut but sooooo much romance....ha
I know weird that sounds but every other paragraph was them professing their undying love for each other. over and over again! ha
I know weird that sounds but every other paragraph was them professing their undying love for each other. over and over again! ha
January 28, 2025
Ok all these five star reviews and I just don’t see it. This story fell VERY flat for me. Too many sex scenes in places it felt like it was so unnecessary and out of place. And the whole cult part just didn’t feel researched enough. I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone, and I know I’m in the minority.
February 21, 2024
Wow, I’m going to have to read lot of rom-coms to get over this intense and shocking book! The news is full of people doing evil, despicable things every day, but seeing something like that unfold before your eyes takes it to a whole different level. While the kidnapping itself is traumatic enough, the things Chase and Mackenzie endure would be enough to break the strongest person, which is all the more horrifying when the victims are de facto children, still in their teens. Yet, despite the mental and physical abuse, Chase and Mackenzie cling together in the darkness to give each other the strength to survive. Through a series of flashbacks, we get to see pieces of their lives leading up to this nightmare to give a bit of insight into what makes these two characters tick. Ultimately though, this is a book of two parts, before their captivity and after, with the second part examining the long road back from this kind of trauma. And it’s not an easy road! Perhaps the most mind-boggling thing was how friends and, even family, wanted to sweep the whole thing under the rug, virtually telling Chase and Makenzie to hurry up and move along! Well, it certainly showed them who their real friends were. Throughout their journey, Chase and Makenzie’s love is the one thing that burns bright. I loved how Chase did everything in his power to protect Mackenzie and show her how strong she was in her own right. Chase often seemed much older than his years and you forget that he’s actually only 18 and still in high school. In fact, this brings me to the one thing I didn’t like about this book, which was some of the dialog between Chase and Mackenzie, which simply didn’t correspond to two late-teens. Their flowery declarations, especially in the second half of the book, were completely out of character. Here’s just one example: “We refused to be broken. Unified we stood in solidarity, facing the enemy, bending but not breaking. The adversity we faced didn’t change us into something we’re not. In many ways, it matured us and because we grew through our pain together, it made us better.” Not really how I imagine teenagers talk today! But, in any case, this is definitely a powerful book that’s well worth your time, just be ready to experience the dark side of humanity, as well as the inexplicable actions of so-called friends.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2024
This is book 1 in the Divinity of the Chosen Ones, which is a new series by Jennifer Rose. This a dark and disturbing series that will have you cringing. There are numerous trigger warnings. The biggest triggers, to me, were sexual assault, rape, sacrifices, and graphic violence. Just be prepared. MacKenzie and Chase live together but Chase is her foster brother. Both Chase and MacKenzie have suffered tragic losses in their short lives. Both are still in high school and are more enemies than siblings at the start of the book. Then a truly offensive act happens. MacKenzie and Chase are taken captive by a crazed and nefarious satanic cult. Together they must fight and find a way to survive their captivity. Chase was always a cinnamon roll hero but his light really shined through in captivity. It will truly break your heart to hear what they have been through, what they must endure in captivity, and their journey toward healing. I know I said satanic cult but everything and everyone is against this cult so don't let that dissuade you from reading this book. This book is more focused on the relationship between MacKenzie and Chase, how it evolves because of their circumstances, and fundamentally changes both of them in turn everyone around them. They did have a recurring quote they would say to one another that helped while in captivity. I'm not going to spoil the book by revealing that specific quote. I will however give you a quote that is sweet, romantic, and maybe a little morbid but fitting for this book. "I want you, every single day, for the rest of my life. One day in the very, very distant future, when we’ve lived a long, amazing life filled with the type of love that grows deeper every day, the kind that others are envious of, and our time on earth is done, I hope our hearts stop beating at the same time so neither of us must live a second without the other. Hand in hand, we’ll step into the afterlife together, loving one another for an eternity." The following books will be about characters that were introduced in this book but their complete stories were not told.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2024
Get ready for Jennifer's darkest romance yet, with the kinds of twists and turns our girl is known for, this one will keep you on your toes to the very last page. You are going to want to check out the triggers because this book is one that may have quite a few.
Mackenzie’s family is all grieving the death of her brother when Chase come to live with them as a foster child. Right away Mackenzie gets the feeling from her mother that she is trying to replace her brother with Chase, this realy hits her. Both Chase and Mackenzie are in their last year of high school which in itself is such a complicated time, in any seniors life. Let alone high school sometimes feeling like it is a cult itself. Mackenzie is very attracted to Chase she feels like she must despise him to protect her brothers memory. As well as believes it is wring to have feelings for her foster brother. Even if they don’t share blood relations as well as never grew up together as actual siblings . But their narrow minded pears as well as even some adults in their small town don’t take any of that in consideration. Chase is determines to win Mackenzie over because he wants to make his new foster sister something more. Just when these two give into their feelings a cult kidnaps Mackenzie and Chase and their hell begins.
Not only will this cult test Mackenzie and Chase as individuals but also try to destroy this new relationship. Can Mackenzie and Chase mentality, physically and emotionally survive this craziness and get back home? If they are able to will they haven't overcome even more obstacles they never thought they would have to face together as a couple and as individuals in the safety of their own home, with their own family.
You are going to want to delve right in and check out this new release that will test your bounds of not being able to put this very dark, nail biting, romantic suspense, down till the very last word on the page.
Mackenzie’s family is all grieving the death of her brother when Chase come to live with them as a foster child. Right away Mackenzie gets the feeling from her mother that she is trying to replace her brother with Chase, this realy hits her. Both Chase and Mackenzie are in their last year of high school which in itself is such a complicated time, in any seniors life. Let alone high school sometimes feeling like it is a cult itself. Mackenzie is very attracted to Chase she feels like she must despise him to protect her brothers memory. As well as believes it is wring to have feelings for her foster brother. Even if they don’t share blood relations as well as never grew up together as actual siblings . But their narrow minded pears as well as even some adults in their small town don’t take any of that in consideration. Chase is determines to win Mackenzie over because he wants to make his new foster sister something more. Just when these two give into their feelings a cult kidnaps Mackenzie and Chase and their hell begins.
Not only will this cult test Mackenzie and Chase as individuals but also try to destroy this new relationship. Can Mackenzie and Chase mentality, physically and emotionally survive this craziness and get back home? If they are able to will they haven't overcome even more obstacles they never thought they would have to face together as a couple and as individuals in the safety of their own home, with their own family.
You are going to want to delve right in and check out this new release that will test your bounds of not being able to put this very dark, nail biting, romantic suspense, down till the very last word on the page.
February 25, 2024
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. The first half of the book was tough to read so please be aware of your triggers. Mackenzie and Chase foster siblings and have a love/h@te relationship. Mackenzie resents him being in her home and Chase struggles with his feelings for her. This all gets put to the side when they are both kidnapped after a car accident. What they went through during their captivity was horrifying. There is t0rture, unaliving, SA of both MC’s, v10lence and a cult. When another member of the group helps them escape, their road to recovery begins.
The second half of the book focuses on their return to their community and the struggles they face with friends, the school and Mackenzie’s mom. They are in love; however, there are some people who object to their relationship and minimize what they have been through.
I will admit that I was not sure if I liked Mackenzie. I found her to be whiny and immature. However, what she went through at the hands of the cult leader was nothing short of horrifying. By the end of the book, I was her cheerleader. She stood up for her feelings for Chase and took ownership of her recovery.
Chase was a rockstar throughout. What he put up with from Mackenzie and how he helped her when they were being held captive showed a maturity beyond his 18 years.
While the subject matter was difficult to read at times, the plot flowed smoothly. The author did a fantastic job describing building up the suspense and keeping you on the edge of your seat. The graphic scenes were believable. I definitely want to read more of this series.
The second half of the book focuses on their return to their community and the struggles they face with friends, the school and Mackenzie’s mom. They are in love; however, there are some people who object to their relationship and minimize what they have been through.
I will admit that I was not sure if I liked Mackenzie. I found her to be whiny and immature. However, what she went through at the hands of the cult leader was nothing short of horrifying. By the end of the book, I was her cheerleader. She stood up for her feelings for Chase and took ownership of her recovery.
Chase was a rockstar throughout. What he put up with from Mackenzie and how he helped her when they were being held captive showed a maturity beyond his 18 years.
While the subject matter was difficult to read at times, the plot flowed smoothly. The author did a fantastic job describing building up the suspense and keeping you on the edge of your seat. The graphic scenes were believable. I definitely want to read more of this series.
April 18, 2024
3.5 stars
The premise of this story is catnip for the dark romance lover. It hit all the spots. The author did not shy away from that aspect. I was invested in seeing how these characters survived this ordeal. That being said, I struggled with the fluidity of the story at times. The transitions often seemed stilted. Even though things were covered, especially about feelings regarding the traumas, and was something I appreciated that it wasn’t brushed over, it came off as indifferent. It felt, like it was more there because the author was anticipating that those would be things that the reader would say was problematic for not being addressed. Again, a fine line for the author to traverse and get the balance right. There were other parts of the story that seemed out of place, such as the mother or a friend acting the way she did at the end. I get that the notion of these two being together was taboo but in the same breath it was extreme, especially for the mom. The Segway to how this world progresses seemed forced too in how it all comes full circle.
I appreciate the hard work of this author and is why I am giving this 3 stars. The book, while problematic in areas, did its job keeping me invested from start to finish. I can see the potential in her writing in the dark romance world. I look forward to her growing in the future.
Heed the trigger warnings.
The premise of this story is catnip for the dark romance lover. It hit all the spots. The author did not shy away from that aspect. I was invested in seeing how these characters survived this ordeal. That being said, I struggled with the fluidity of the story at times. The transitions often seemed stilted. Even though things were covered, especially about feelings regarding the traumas, and was something I appreciated that it wasn’t brushed over, it came off as indifferent. It felt, like it was more there because the author was anticipating that those would be things that the reader would say was problematic for not being addressed. Again, a fine line for the author to traverse and get the balance right. There were other parts of the story that seemed out of place, such as the mother or a friend acting the way she did at the end. I get that the notion of these two being together was taboo but in the same breath it was extreme, especially for the mom. The Segway to how this world progresses seemed forced too in how it all comes full circle.
I appreciate the hard work of this author and is why I am giving this 3 stars. The book, while problematic in areas, did its job keeping me invested from start to finish. I can see the potential in her writing in the dark romance world. I look forward to her growing in the future.
Heed the trigger warnings.
February 21, 2024
Mackenzie and Chase have a complicated relationship. Mackenzie is attracted to him but feels that her parents are replacing her dead brother and her loyalty to his memory leads her to treat Chase badly. Chase has been in love with Mackenzie right from the start and he puts up with her treatment because he will protect her no matter what.
This is a good thing when they are in a car accident and then kidnapped by a cult. Surviving and escaping the cult is only half the battle. Things aren't easy when they return home either.
This is not a comfortable book to read so be prepared.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a good thing when they are in a car accident and then kidnapped by a cult. Surviving and escaping the cult is only half the battle. Things aren't easy when they return home either.
This is not a comfortable book to read so be prepared.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2024
Bound in Darkness by Jennifer Rose is a good, and enjoyable dark forbidden enemies to lovers romance read. The story has a great entertaining world building story line. The characters are great, and they have great chemistry. This story will take you on a roller coaster of trauma and healing. This story is a very entertaining read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 24, 2024
A fantastic dark romance
*Do check trigger warning as book may not be for everyone*
Wow just wow. The author had me absolutely hooked with what I believe is a 5 star read. Chase & Mackenzie's story will take the reader on a dark emotional rollercoaster ride that will have you wondering if Chase & Mackenzie are strong enough to withstand what they are put through at the hands of a cult. I highly recommend giving their story a read.
I can't wait for the next book to come out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*Do check trigger warning as book may not be for everyone*
Wow just wow. The author had me absolutely hooked with what I believe is a 5 star read. Chase & Mackenzie's story will take the reader on a dark emotional rollercoaster ride that will have you wondering if Chase & Mackenzie are strong enough to withstand what they are put through at the hands of a cult. I highly recommend giving their story a read.
I can't wait for the next book to come out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 9, 2024
Started strong and jumped into it almost immediately, but fizzled out. This is 3.5 for me. The themes are dark, detailed and sadistic (my preference) but 50%-65% through the plot changes and I was wondering how much could happen that was interesting after and well.... the answer is nothing. I struggled to get through the last 20%. The story is repetitive but I could deal. It was very very drug out. But I was very interested and enjoyed the first half. I would read the others hoping they were like beginning because the stories should be darker IMO.
February 7, 2024
Oh man I don’t know what to say about Mackenzie and Chase journey. It really was a hard road this two had all the dark and twisted stuff this two had to deal with was a bit hard to read through it. But even in darkness they found a love that over shine above all else. I’m just happy that even with all the trauma,all the difficulties this two had to face they got their happy end. I’m looking forward to more of this series and see what will be come of this characters.
February 9, 2024
Chase comes into Mackenzie lofe after the loss of her brother, he becomes her foster brother, one she resents her parents for. But for Chase it was love at first sight, no matter her anger towards him. But one night things change between them, and then their taken by a cult. Can they survive what's ahead let alone their own feelings? Well written steamy desires ,emotions, action and more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2024
This book was amazing to read. The story flowed so well. You felt each characters heart ache and love for the other. All while seeing the trials and tribulations they are forced to endure. They both battle past trauma and learn to heal with one another's help. The story, as a whole, feels so real, and the scenes are so vivid. I highly recommend reading this book. This book was an amazing read for 2024. The next in the series will be just as amazing, I can't wait.
February 18, 2024
Está muy buena la historia y como se cuidan entre ellos los protagonistas después de los horrores que pasaron con la Secta
No entiendo como las personas podemos ser tan cruel con otras personas, o peor aún con una victima y luego miran y no ayudan
También pensé que el problema de la madre al final del libro se iba a resolver o iba a buscar ayuda psicológica para superar la pena de perder a su hijo, pero nada
No entiendo como las personas podemos ser tan cruel con otras personas, o peor aún con una victima y luego miran y no ayudan
También pensé que el problema de la madre al final del libro se iba a resolver o iba a buscar ayuda psicológica para superar la pena de perder a su hijo, pero nada
February 24, 2024
A warning to the uninitiated, this book is very dark, so make sure that you've read all the trigger warnings. I read a lot of dark romances, and it was a lot even for me. I like both main characters - Chase and Mackenzie - especially how protective Chase is. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2025
Mackenzie was such a strong, broken, but fighting character, and Chase… ugh, I don’t even know how to describe him without spoiling anything. Complicated doesn’t even begin to cover it. Their connection felt raw and real, even in the middle of all the chaos.
If you like your dark romances with cults, control, and characters who fight like hell to find a spark of light in the dark, this one’s absolutely worth the read.
If you like your dark romances with cults, control, and characters who fight like hell to find a spark of light in the dark, this one’s absolutely worth the read.
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