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Breaking Insanity #1

The Sordid Promise

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***Warning: Contains graphic language, frequent graphic sex, violence, and very dark themes.
Can be read as a standalone.

When physical pain allows you to escape your reality; what do you do when the pain is no longer strong enough to quiet the emotional ache?

Diouana "Nikki" returned to her hometown six months ago to tend to her sick mother. She thought she'd left her "baggage" behind her on the opposite coast, only to find that it never left her side. As her self-destructive thoughts begin to consume her, her mother -- realizing Nikki's torment -- pushes Nikki to complete her last wishes.

Eric Brenton, Nikki's new neighbor, lives in a dark, chaotic world that is easily hidden behind his model good looks and cocky demeanor. Unapologetic about his dirtier intentions, he sets his sights on Nikki with an offer to help her. But his help comes with very unorthodox conditions and a huge price.

And Eric...comes with an extensive black box warning label.

300 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 23, 2014

73 people are currently reading
2942 people want to read

About the author

Courtney Lane

18 books647 followers
COURTNEY LANE has been creating her own little world since she was very young.

While many of her works touch several different genres, she has an archetype when it comes to the female protagonists in her stories.

Currently, Courtney can be found either working on her next book, playing the latest role-playing game on her X-Box (preferably a game by BioWare), or spending time with her family.

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCourtn...
http://twitter.com/AuthorLane
https://plus.google.com/u/0/+Courtney...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 404 reviews
Profile Image for JaHy☝Hold the Fairy Dust.
345 reviews632 followers
August 8, 2014
**** 4.5 "TALK DIRTY TO ME " STARS *****

***Warning: Contains graphic language, frequent graphic sex, violence, and very dark themes.****


A) Per the warning above , you can clearly see ---> THIS. BOOK. IS .NOT. FOR .EVERYONE. The Sordid Promise is dark,twisted and fucks with your mind.....BIG TIME.

B) If you enjoy dark, smexy and mischievous reads, this IS the book for you.....I hope.......and the less you know about the storyline the better.


After 7 years Diouana "Nikki" returns home to care for her dying mother. Nik is not your typical heroine, she has social anxiety, suicidal thoughts and is a cutter....she's also blunt as hell, strong willed, very intelligent and has a "I DONT GIVE A FUCK "mentality. One day while visiting her mother at the hospital she meets Dr. Eric Brenton and........

......or is she the dangerous one?


Eric, Eric, E-R-I-C!!!!



Lord have mercy did I have a love/hate relationship with this character.. Eric is not only Mrs. Given's (Nik's mother) physician but he 's also Nik's new neighbor. Coincidence? Maybe....Maybe Not. Eric's intrigued by Nik's unique behavior and eager to befriend ?..... Help ?.... Manipulate ?..... Fuck ?... All of the above? .....none of the above?.....



AND.......

.......Yup, that's all the info your getting out of me. Vague much? --->you betcha! ....




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Profile Image for Candace.
1,179 reviews5,019 followers
March 8, 2016
'The Sordid Promise' is the kind of story that will make you scratch your head and wonder WTF just happened. Although it starts off kind of slow and seemingly uneventful, it soon morphs into a mysterious, suspenseful head game. This book kept me guessing all the way to the end.

The hero and heroine were anything but your conventional lead characters. In fact, they were both pretty despicable characters in their own way. However, despite the unlikable characteristics of her two main characters, Ms. Lane crafts a story that holds readers' attention.

Nikki, has returned to her mother's home to spend time with her until she passes. Her mother has cancer and is not going to recover. Nikki settles in and begins making the preparations for her mother's death.

Despite her unfriendly and often inappropriate behavior, Nikki can't seem to quit drawing the attention of the new neighbor, Eric. Every time she turns around, he seems to be there, trying to engage her. He's even a doctor at the hospital, acquainted with her mother.

At the encouragement of her dying mother, Nikki eventually agrees to date Eric. Their relationship seems to progress rapidly, transforming into an unhealthy obsession in no time flat. Eric is determined to "own" Nikki, body and soul. The two come to an agreement of sorts, which gives Nikki peace of mind and gives Eric the control over Nikki that he wants.

In the meantime, it is becoming clear to Nikki that there is far more to Eric than he's letting on. His past relationships continue to haunt the couple. Nikki finds herself constantly questioning his intentions toward her and whether or not his feelings are sincere. Each answer she receives only seems to lead to more questions.

While I loved the twisted, mysterious storyline, some things didn't work for me. Mainly, the writing often seemed disjointed. The story would be headed in one direction, then the next paragraph would find it headed somewhere else entirely without any explanation or logical reason. Several times I was left thinking that I'd clearly missed something, going back to reread a passage only to find that I hadn't.

It also took longer than I would've liked to connect with Nikki. An emotionally volatile, socially inept, cutter, she wasn't easy to like. For most of the first half of the book she was just plain rude, which made her hard to like. Although she did eventually become more endearing, I would've liked for it to have happened earlier. There were several times that I wanted to give up early on because that connection was absent.

Once this story got going, it was a 4 star read for me. However, it took a long time to get there and did have some issues. Overall, I give it 3 stars. It got better as it went along and I'm curious enough to read the next book, but there are some things that were holding it back from being exceptional.
Profile Image for *J* Too Many Books Too Little Time.
1,921 reviews3,718 followers
April 17, 2014
2.5--OMG...That Was FUCKED Up--Stars!!!



No for reals...that was a total



It's really hard to rate and review this book because honestly this is just not my cuppa. So I think a lot of people will like this one, just not me.

Where to begin...I actually really liked the first half of the book until it took a MAJOR turn for the crazy!



I don't even know what to say about the storyline. I am literally speechless at how fucked up it all was.

Eric...



Eric is a dirty talker. And let me tell you..it was HOT. But there is no amount of dirty talk that can make up for the sick and twistedness that is Eric.



No sir! I don't care how HOT Eric is. How big his cock is. How great he is in the sack.



And fast! Now it wouldn't be fair of me to place all of the blame on poor Eric. No....Nikki is pretty fucked up herself.



I'd love to tell you about the plot....but half the time I had no clue what was going on.



By the time I got to the end....I was stunned. Speechless. Shocked.



So....in wrapping things up.

If you...
(a) Like a good mind fuck...
(b) Like a lot of crazy OTT drama...
(c) Like a dirty talking hero with a big cock who is seriously SICK in the head...
(d) Like an equally SICK in the head heroine who is okay with all of the things mentioned above...and finally
(e) Are okay with death, a touch of fecal matter, pain play, among other things....



If not...consider yourself warned.
Profile Image for Beverly.
1,005 reviews788 followers
September 13, 2016
5 Sordid Stars!

I just finished this and I am literally like


I haven't read a book like this in a long time. I started reading this because I knew the main character was a dirty talker with a big cock


BUT


I didn't read anything about this book before starting it, I was pretty much being a total perv and reading it for the dirty talk...and BOY I was blown away.

We meet Nikki


She is beautiful, but completely fucked up. She is major bitch, LOVED that, and doesn't take shit from anyone. She is very closed off, a cutter, and on a couple different psych meds. All of this and her mother is dying from cancer. She meets Dr. Eric Brenton at the hospital, while visiting her mother.

Eric


He is doctor, has a big cock and woman are falling over themselves for his time and attention.

When Nikki and Eric meet she is a complete bitch to him, and how does Eric respond - by being a complete dirty fuck.

"You're a very dirty girl , aren't you Nik?" "I am going to enjoy making you come on my cock, my fingers, and in my mouth. My sex is going to set a standard that no man has ever reached, nor will another man get a fucking chance to."

Nikki isn't trusting and Eric isn't forthcoming. They have their issues and stuff to work through, but I cannot share this because it would completely ruin the story.

Here is what I liked:

The writing I literally ran through this book, I could barely put it down.


The smoking hot sex


WTF Moments - there are plenty


For those who want to know the ending
Profile Image for Lady Vigilante (Feifei).
632 reviews2,976 followers
April 23, 2014
3 stars!

This review will be pretty short, partially because I don't really know what was happening half the time.

description

First, please heed the warning on the book - this is a psychological thriller. Any romance and erotica here isn't the primary focus, only secondary elements. This is an extremely well written story that I think hit the mark on the psychological part and I truly enjoyed all the messed up, jagged, and twisted parts; however, neither characters were likable, some scenes were just filled with over the top drama, and a big cock doesn’t solve problems so the pros and cons are pretty equal.

It took me almost 10 hours to come to this conclusion but it is:

I didn’t love the book but I didn’t hate it.

I disliked the characters immensely, but I enjoyed the story (though sometimes it was OTT).

description
Profile Image for Carla ☺Did I Say That☺.
282 reviews190 followers
September 3, 2016
5 ***HELL YEAH*** Stars!!!
Holy Shit!!!...this was sooooooo good!!!!


***Warning: Contains graphic language, frequent graphic sex, violence, and very dark themes.
Every time a book comes with a warning it instantly peaks my interest and I literally get excited...

this one was no exception!!!
The Sordid Promise tells the story of two individuals that were so wrong but completely right for each other..This was one of the most erotic mind-fucks Ive read in a long time!!!

Diouana..aka Nikki..is a witty...intelligent...smart ass chick..with social and suicidal issues and despite her downfalls she was a kick-ass heroine and...


Eric..aka ?...what can I say about this man..definitely had that Love Hate relationship with him...

He was a controlling...demanding..sick bastard..that had me like this one minute..

and like this the next..

and I couldnt get enough of it!!!..lol!!!

As for the plot..there's no easy way to describe what happens without spoiling the story..other than this was a dark and twisted tale that will have you on the edge of your seat!!!..With that being said go get this one ASAP!!!..Read it..digest it and bask in the glow of one of the best books you will probably read..I know I did!!!

BRA-fucking-VO Mrs. Lane..this was by far the best book Ive read this year and Ive read a few good ones..I'm in awe of your writing style as well as how real those bed boogie scenes were..not cookie cutter at all!!!..No doubt you have gained a fan..and I look forward to reading more of your books!!


Thanks so much for the recommendation Jahy!!! ;-)...This one is going in the GLOW-WORM hall of fame!!!
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Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,670 reviews3,284 followers
March 2, 2018
4 Mind Feckery, Dark, No... Really Fecked Up Dark Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
As I mentioned...I came to this book due to the tantalizing updates from my buds, Jahy, Carla and Carol to name a few...when they start flooding my feed with quotes of hot, graphic dirty talk.... it is like sticking Cheesecake in my face and saying, "come on a little bite won't kill your diet" yeah... tell that to a professional dieter, hahaha....so I gave into my dirty talk urge and began to read.

This book lives up to its warning:

Warning: Contains graphic language, frequent graphic sex, violence, and very dark themes.

***First and foremost, The Sordid Promise is a psychological thriller. The erotic elements are secondary. It is not a simple, happy story. This is a twisted, complicated, and broken story.
Please, please read the PREFACE before purchasing.


I agree and it wasn't put there to tease and get a potential reader hot/bothered for the book... this is a real warning and those who have any triggers with any number of issues should heed this warning.


This is also the type of book which needs to be read with only the blurb known... in order to get all of the impact. When I was at 12%, I put together in my head a number of key elements which became true... I can't help it ... that is just how my mind works after reading years of mindfecker and mystery books. My Naughty Nancy Drew hat was on and going strong. However, it did not take away for me the ride until I got to the last third of the story.

The character of Diouana "Nikki" was the true winner in this book. I felt her... I actually liked her blunt and anti social ways. Her life was so traumatic from the start... I got her... and what she saw as living and the questions of why... why to continue. I actually will think about her long after I finish with this review.

All of the other characters were either fascinating, abhorrent, transparent (to me) or all of the above at one time or another. The promise of sexually hot and dirty talk did come to pass.... but with a lot of stuff wrapped around it... dark readers will dig it, I think.

The dialogue was quite good... the thoughts held me... but towards the end...I just wanted to finish to confirm my theories...because this is not a feel good read... so as much as it was a perfectly dark read with mindfeckery as its core... I felt as if I broke my diet... it tasted really great during most of it but then finished and felt the sugar hangover.

It was worth the read and I knew what I was getting... and will probably do more of this author's work because even though it is not on my "diet"... that has never stopped me, now has it....


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Profile Image for Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen.
1,692 reviews634 followers
April 19, 2014


FUCKING FANTASTIC!!!

Book – The Sordid Promise
Author – Courtney Lane
Publication Date – March 26, 2014
Type – Stand Alone/Part of Series
Genre – Dark Romance
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Review
I don’t even know how to start this review because even after a few days of finishing it….my mind is completely fucked up.  I can only say – “Now this is the way a MIND FUCK should be written”. 



I questioned constantly what the hell was going on…..I thought one thing but then it shifted to another scenario and then right back to where I started. 

This book will have you constantly second guessing what the hell is going on and who is the bad guy – who to believe – who to trust and who the hell is everyone!!



I loved it – right after I completed the book I sent a message to Ms. Lane and it read:

Dear Ms. Lane,

I want to start this out by giving you a round of applause while I sink to my knees and worship the ground you walk on.




It has been such a long time that a book has left me speechless and emotionally drained. 

This book was fan-f'ing-tastic! I don't have any other words and hopefully I will be able to get my feelings in order to write my review tonight.

Beautiful - phenomenal work - your writing style, your character development and imagery are perfection!

Your new avid fan
Carol

 
I think this sums up my feelings exactly and there is no way in HELL that I am going to leak anything out about this story…..there aren’t words to describe or summarize the characters and do the story the right amount of justice it deserves.

The only advice I can give is to pick this book up – clear your mind and get ready to go on a journey of total fuck-up-ped-ness!!



BRAVO Ms. Lane!
 
Profile Image for Christine Wallflower & Dark Romance Junkie .
495 reviews3,667 followers
June 19, 2014
4.5 WARPED STARS!



"Y-you're cruel and slightly sadistic."
"...and you love it, my twisted angel, don't you?"


The Sordid Promise by Courtney Lane, was sordid INDEED. The level of mind fuckery in this book was off the charts, I can't begin to tell you how dysfunctional the characters in this book were and I mean all of them. Our main character, Nikki, is a self harmer, she cuts and the only way she can control the urge to harm herself is by staying medicated. She's also socially awkward and incredibly insensitive to the world and people around her. Her mother's failing health makes the situation even more worse.

Enter, Eric Brenton. A handsome doctor who also happens to be her next door neighbour. From their first meeting these two clash, Nikki, being stubborn and set in her ways and Eric being the chauvinistic ass, is not used to any woman denying him.

Half the time I was reading this book I had no clue what to believe. Nothing was what it seemed, I've say it again this book was beyond warped. Eric, I have no words. For the life of me, am I the only person who is in love with this guy?



Look, I'll be honest from the moment Eric told Nikki he would never share her with anyone I was a gonner. As warped as Eric and Nikki both are, they were perfect for each other. Now after reading this book you might find yourself thinking: That's not right. And yes it isn't but hey, it's a book and it's all about digging deep and finding our darkest fantasies.

Although, The Sordid Promise may not be the darkest book I've ever read. It was quite an emotional read, because yes the characters are cruel and twisted and should probably be locked up in a padded cell, but it was still a love story. And because of this I was emotionally invested in this story. Hell, Nikki and Eric FOREVER!

I am, without a doubt, undeniably fucked.
Profile Image for Akanksha❤ Søren♰.
654 reviews2,651 followers
February 4, 2019
So, I finally found the second book, though it wasn't linked on GR to the first edition.
~

Sometimes I second guess my mental stability when I love such dark books.

5 days later, I'm yet thinking about this book. Loved it.


Eric,


Nik,



One more book added to my favorite pile.

I loved this book.

Dark

Twisted

AMAZING!!!!!

*sigh* A good dark book makes my soul happy.

I am not going to give anything out about this book, because you guys have to read it. Its amazing.. crazy mental and fab!
This book is twists and turns and tumbles! Doesn't let your attention divert for a second. Its capturing and awesome.


All you dark lovers, this is jackpot!! Its twisted and fucks with your brain really nicely!
The author has written this book brilliantly! The characters are amazing and the story totally capturing!


“I know I’m making your pussy the wettest it’s ever been. Just wait. I’ll get you wetter than a banana in a women's prison.”


My brain totally went to Orange is the New Black :P


"You will be so strung out over my cock, you’ll ache for it like a junkie.”


Eric is one dirty mouthed big cock of a mental hunk!! ;)

“Reason why I’m not often in a suit? Tailoring every pair of dress slacks I buy is a pain in the ass. Big cock problems.”




Thank you Savannah, Lovely rec! Just prefect for me! :D You made my week!

**I don't know why people are putting caramel skinned people as Nik or Eric, don't remember them being dark.. just tanned.. maybe I missed a line or too because i remember them being honey color, and thats like not caramel.**

Can't wait for the second book!! NOV, GET HERE ASAP.
This book does NOT HAVE A CLIFFHANGER.


First read- April 22nd 2014
Profile Image for Barbara.
433 reviews82 followers
April 21, 2014
BR with my girls ❤❤

So my BBC girl Barbara choose this for a BR and was rec by Jahy… I thought … what I´m going to put myself in to again… LOL

But when I read the blur ...

***Warning: Contains graphic language, frequent graphic sex, violence, and very dark themes. First and foremost, The Sordid Promise is a psychological thriller***


I was sucked in because I love a mindfuckery!

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For me the story is all about mind manipulation … and trough it I have a lot "WTF is going on?!"

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Sex manipulation…

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There are so many twists and turns that kept me guessing and wanting more, the scenes are extremely descriptive, the story contains some very deep matters, that may not appeal everyone, but at the end my mind burst!

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This is not a romantic story, If you are not a fan of dark and twisted romances, psychological thrillers... don´t read it!



Profile Image for Jennifer Kyle.
2,611 reviews5,400 followers
June 12, 2014
4.5 *SORDID* Stars

This is a cleverly crafted, intensely dark read. I was questioning everyone’s sanity and even my own for picking this book up but the ride was thrilling!

Nikki struggles with cutting and mental illness. She is on the brink of losing her mother to cancer when the story begins. The hot new neighbor/doctor in town is all up in her business…

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Eric at first seems forward but readers just you wait! He’s got a group of odd girls around him who all know more, he’s got SECRETS GALORE and is a complete MENTAL FUCK.

Is his interest in Nikki a game to win her mother’s estate?

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Nikki is smart but oh so easily distracted by Eric’s dirty talk (LEVEL 10) and his skills at distracting her and not getting any real answers to any of her questions. Their relationship is twisted, supporting characters are just as twisted and this made for a page turning read!

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Overall, this is dark, it’s disturbing and one exciting read. Courtney Lane can write, she can spin a story perfectly and left me thinking…

description

Here’s a sneak peek at the prologue for book 2 (this book doesn't end with a cliffhanger)

http://redcherrypunch.com/SordidDesce...
Profile Image for Brandi.
691 reviews1,473 followers
June 12, 2014
I don't even know where to start.
This was a crazy story.
My mind is all fucked up.

description

Diouana returns home to look after her dying mother. She has some problems, extreme social anxiety, suicidal tendencies, but she is intelligent and strong willed.

description

She meets her new mother's new neighbor, Dr. Eric Brenton. He is gorgeous, arrogant and seems to have a special interest in Nikki. But something feels off about him...

description

Jump on the crazy train...
My mind was constantly spinning.
What the FUCK is going on?!?!?!
Everyone seems to have some ulterior motive...

description

Gah. I know this is vague. I just don't know how to process it. If you're a fan of mind fucks and psychological thrillers, give it a shot. This was a well done story. I enjoyed it.
Profile Image for aksana .
308 reviews132 followers
April 16, 2014
2.5 Stars

First of all I want to say that this book isn't badly written. Its written pretty well. And it's def a good mind fuck story. I'm pretty sure there will be a lot of people who will enjoy. But I didn't enjoy it. Not the whole book anyway.


I really liked the first half. If I had to rate the first half I would give it 4 stars. But after 50% this book was just too disturbing for me. I didn't like the direction it took. I knew it would be a darker read but still..


There were too many no-gos for me and sex is not and the answer to everything . Because that's what the hero and heroine did when they actually needed to talk.

For all who care there is a HEA. But I wished that Nikki would have left Eric or killed him or killed herself

just not ending up with Eric.

Some of my no-gos were


First half was very confusing


but still entertaining


but the story progressed and I was like

Not just with Nikki or Eric but with everyone. I think there wasn't one sane character in this story.

well exept the dogs maybe

I got more and more scared of Eric after each chapter


And after I finished the book my opinion about Eric was just


And heir relationship?


Profile Image for Diana's.
1,053 reviews126 followers
October 24, 2015
4.5 What a Sick Fucking Ride Stars!!!!!

Blog Review Here...

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So the blurb drew me in and let me tell you I ALMOST called out sick cause I could NOT PUT IT DOWN!!!!!!!!!

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Started off with Nikki flawed beyond possible repair.. She's a cutter on anti depressants and anti anxiety meds. She's basically bidding her time and moving through daily motions just to get by.. You CAN'T help but want to reach out to her and guide her... But she's SOOO strong in her own understated ways she just doesn't know it... YET!!!

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Eric Ohhhh Eric he’s Dr. McKinky…. Looks the right way, says the right things and Oh what a DIRTY TALKER HE IS!! No Female can resist his charm or deny any of his Sordid requests! HE’s in his own category he was obnoxious, cocky, relentless, dominant and a TOTAL asshole! I didn’t know whether to fling my kindle or use it to get off somehow when he was front and center…

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If your looking for a seriously Fucked Up Beyond Repair No way possible you can forsee a HEA Kinda read? READ The Sordid Promise!!!!!!!!!! and make sure to set some free time to be consumed by it.

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I loved it even though about 80% in I still couldn't see how the FUCK anything could turn out OKAY and was wondering if there was a HEA but it did and there was... with NO CLIFFHANGER!!!!!! thank Fuck cause I would have gone NUTS myself if there was..

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www.bookaholicconfessions.com
Profile Image for Kelli C .
1,053 reviews362 followers
October 28, 2014
Preface: This is a Psychological Thriller to extremes. It is a dark twisted mindf*** and crazy train romance. I am still not 100% certain as to what I read, all I do know is that Dr. Eric Brenton...

has to be one of the craziest mo-fo's I have had the pleasure of reading ever!
He is sexy as sin, confident beyond reason, and dominant to the extreme...he is also without a doubt NUTS!...

Poor Nikki Givens! This girl is a mess in her own mind. A recluse barely living. Existing under the guide of her dying mother. Her encounter with her new "neighbor" puts her life on a path to psychosis...or does it?

In a tale of manipulation by so many characters it becomes an absolute Blur...I felt as if I too was warped and sucked into the deceit and insane game of life that Eric and the late Mrs. Givens created. Were there real feelings?, were people for real?, were people dying?, was anyone sane? I do not think I was!!!

I will say Nikki did a pretty damn good job of surviving Eric and his ways! I give her credit, she was smart...maybe too smart...or perhaps it was the drugs, lol!

And as for Eric, he was evil, no way around that! He was sexy as hell with his sexual dominance, but even that could not make up for all the shit he did. He was BAD, no point in denying it. I want to believe that Nikki understood that and chose to forgive or better yet accept, but honestly I think Eric was so superb in his manipulation that she no longer cared. In a life where PAIN was her only pleasure...Eric became her addiction....her new need...her ONLY need. Good thing because there really was no one else left standing in the end! Happy ever after???? Who knows....




Profile Image for La-Lionne.
484 reviews841 followers
April 20, 2014
*** 1 star for the potential it had ***

I read warning and sort of knew what I was getting myself into. I love me some dark read now and then, but this book was too gross and disgusting for me. Not my cup of tea at all.

Here are some key points that ruined the story for me:

- The male MC came on too strong from the very beginning and didn't ease up, but got worse, as the story progressed. I think the psychological aspect of the story would have been much more interesting if his approach was more subtle. He was in her face right away, threatening her with his fabulous, ginormous and just a jewel of a cock.

- Heroine didn't impressed me either. I get that she craved pain and kink, but common sense should've kicked the fuck in at some point. She said she wasn't suicidal, but her actions spoke otherwise. You have to be, to get involved with a freak like him. Her lack of ability to put two and two together was very annoying. How many truths do you need to dig up to get the picture of what's going on?

- I completely missed the point of this story. It is a psychological thriller, in a sense that it did had all the elements that were needed. But it failed on the execution, IMO, big time. There was so much going on, cancer, fraud, pregnancy, murder, crazy exes, suicide, some sort of secret sex cult happening (I'm not sure what that was), death threats, psychological manipulation and rape.
The story needed to either be divided into series, or have less problems to solve.

I called it quits at 80% mark. I might read the ending someday, because I'm curious how it ends. But for today, I'm too grossed out to care.
Profile Image for Anamarija.
113 reviews47 followers
November 13, 2020
"Trust me, I'm batsh*t crazy" 4 stars
Since it took too long for author to decide will it be book 2 or not, I am not going to read it.!!!

cry no gif
I had to make up a new category for this read too!!!:) It's called "batsh*t crazy"! This is the craziest, most unconventional book I've read so far!And the craziest I had to review! So far from any typical, sweet romance.

I had a hard time actually deciding on the stars for this!! Cause, it brought me, from almost quitting it in one moment, to gripping tablet harder and fliping pages, reading faster, to, almost throwing my tablet in the wall!!

What decided was, that it was an engaging read and almost never boring!!
I felt a lack of characterisation part a bit, physical to be exact. Also, logic and reasoning fails (it seemed like a logic fail while I was reading first part of the book), BUT after she explained all what she intented to write about him in the end, I understood...

Read the short description about the book and read the book!I can't tell you anything else. I recommend it.

*Cover is wrong for this read, it tricks you. It would suit it, some darker image, maybe with an evil smile.
Here's my suggestion of cover:
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*BTW, ending kinda threw me off, wasn't expecting it,

But there's a sequel, so I'm hoping for a new kind of normal!!


There isn't going to be a sequel. Author just announced on FB. So, if you want to read it, read it, but that's it. It can be read as a standalone. You might want more, but you won't get it. Sorry.

I'm going on with the gifs now, and my reactions...cuz if I speak up, I'm going to have to put my whole review with spoilers, and I don't want that!

My Eric and Nikki:


Had no idea that she is actually black until I read reviews! And he has honey dark skin too. I don't know if that means he is black too. So I just put up Jesse Williams and some female actor.
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A rollercoaster of emotions...
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Profile Image for Silvana.
192 reviews25 followers
April 18, 2014
description

An unstable heroine, a controlling hero, supporting characters with hardly any redeeming qualities, add many unexpected twists and turns and you get ‘The sordid Promise’

The Sordid Promise=== an engaging, addictive and dark novel that I couldn’t put down.

This book is one giant head trip- It’s not a book that is intended to make you believe in the power of love, love which can conquer all and bring on the redemption of flawed characters, however it is one of the most thought-provoking books I have read.

Eric is one hero who doesn’t make excuses for his actions, he was a mystery to me throughout the novel; I thought I started to know the real Eric, I thought I could piece the puzzle that is Eric, but then the author kept throwing in one twist after the other and I was left floundering and guessing till the end.

Nikki’s feelings of despair, loss and desperation were so palpable, there were moments where I was screaming at her not to give up.

Eric and Nikki are one couple that should not work yet I wanted to work so badly; Two imperfect people who are perfect for each other.

description

description

The supporting characters were just as messed up as our protagonists Estelle, Tamala and Angie were some of the most annoying, conniving characters I’ve encountered, I just didn’t care for their fate and their presence one bit.

description

Do not read this if you’re after a light romance and a quick me up- however if you are looking for a book that will make you think and even ponder your morality, then this book is for you.

description
Profile Image for Kirsten.
382 reviews173 followers
March 30, 2015
3...but still not sure...stars!

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Well, it's been well over 36 hours since I finished this book, and I still have no clue what to say or what I even think about it. So bear with me.

As your typical mindfuck read, there's not too much that can be said, but I'll try to give the basics without spoiling anything.

Let's see...
The depressed, socially inept, and reserved Nikki has moved back into her childhood home. Her mother has been stricken with cancer and is dying in a nearby hospital. She cannot believe she is losing something that means so much to her. With help from her medication, she doesn't feel the need to physically manifest her inner pain.

When a cocky neighbor moves in next door, her world will be tilted. The handsome doctor is relentless at attempting to break her out of her shell. Dr. Eric Brenton is getting into her head.

While getting to know one another, the two strike a deal a.k.a. a sordid promise.

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Eric is going to do something to help out Nikki and her mother in exchange for giving herself to him....in all entities.

There are so many secrets and lies going on that Nikki doesn't know who she can trust. Eric has his own dark past, but he also has a very messed up present.

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Through all of the mistrust, there is still feelings and unequivocal lust involved. When everything plays out, will the two crazy souls unite? Or are they doomed from the beginning?

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I have to be quite honest when I say that when I finished this book, I was a little upset. Ok, that was mild...I was pissed and disappointed. After I cooled down a little bit, I had to reflect on what was read in its entirety.

I have to give the author major kudos for an intense, dark, and totally fucked-up read. My mind was all over the place for about 80% of the book. I had no clue what was going to happen, who was lying, and basically WTF was going on. So for that, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and liked being on a dizzy high that made me try to put the pieces together.

I really wasn't sure where the author was going to go with everything, so imagine my shock when I felt slightly bamboozled, and didn't quite grasp the reasoning for all the craziness that took place. I guess all of that was kind of explained, but I felt more crazy that I went through it all.

Vague? Sorry. I'm still having difficulty with this review.

Obviously I am at a loss for words, so I think I'll quit trying to explain myself.
This was just my opinion, as many of my friends absolutely loved this. I totally get the appeal, but unfortunately it was a slight miss for me. If you want something that will keep you on your toes, give it a shot. I hope you enjoy it.
Profile Image for Lise *friends don't flag*.
431 reviews173 followers
April 19, 2014
This one caught me totally off guard and made my head spin in pure craziness...

description

“Yeah, fucking hook, line, and sinker”

I simply devoured this deliciously disturbing mindfuck of a book. I can’t even recap the story. I will tell you that the actions of some of the characters were most definitely-
sordid:
sleazy, dirty, seedy, seamy, unsavory, tawdry, cheap, debased, degenerate, dishonorable, disreputable, discreditable, contemptible, ignominious, shameful, abhorrent

But I loved every twist, turn, WTF, who are you and what have you done moment.

Dr. Eric Brenton reminds me of Anthony Rawlings of Consequences in that controlling, product of a hideous childhood, revenge seeking, I am God-like, sexy monster way and Nikki is in his sights.

From their first meeting on the jogging trail to every other encounter after- these two had some kind of connection or perhaps a sick chemistry. However their relationship is defined, I was in for the coo coo trip this one took me and I am still thinking about it.

If you are going to read this one, go in 'raw' it will be more of a fulfilling 'ride'

Profile Image for Nikki ღ Navareus.
1,087 reviews52 followers
August 18, 2014
I enjoyed the hell out of this story. I was very sad when it ended. That being said; Best Ending EVER! Loved the story, loved the psycho mind fuckery of it all, loved the sex, loved the dirty talk, loved the twists and turns, the unpredictability, and I absolutely loved the ending. Just found out there will be a sequel too, so I AM STOKED! :)
Profile Image for Elaine.
504 reviews72 followers
April 15, 2014
3.5 Twisted Stars
This was an intriguing little tale thats for sure.

When Nikki comes home to spend time with her ailing mother, little did she think that she would be drawn to and into her next door neighbours Eric's twisted world.
The thing is that Nikki has mental health issues, so meeting someone like Eric is maybe not the best thing for her to do.
But thats ok.... Eric is a doctor so he wants to help Nikki get back on track again.
This story will keep you guessing right up to the end.
Eric is manipulative, very good looking but is he all that he seems.
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Nikki knows things aren't right but will she continue her relationship with him.Maybe they are perfect for each other. But can she really trust him...

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This story is not quite what it seems...twists and turns left me feeling in a constant state of apprehension.. Who can she trust?

I felt a bit uncomfortable with certain parts so that was maybe why my ratings weren't higher...


I enjoyed the story and the build up to the final conclusion ...
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April 20, 2014
3 StArS

How was it, you might well ask.....it was a total mind fuck...that's what it damn well was!!




I really should have hated this, but for some reason I just kept turning the pages as I was curious as to what was going to unfold.



Diouana "Nikki" agree's to her dying mothers last wishes. This included going round to her new neighbours house for a dinner party and getting to know her new neighbour.

Dr Eric Brenton, Nikki's new neighbour. He's cocky, good looking and unapologetic about his dirtier intentions, he sets his sights on Nikki with an offer to help her.

But he is one unpredictable bastard...




So here's the thing...

Right up to the very end....my pretty blonde head still doesn't quite know what to make of it!!!

And for my dear friend Jahy who gifted me this book ....all I can say to you is your crazy and 'I luv ya' and thanks for the mad ride I enjoyed it!!



Profile Image for Selene.
933 reviews266 followers
January 4, 2017
Genre: Romance
Overall likability of lead characters: 4/5
Erotica component: 5/5
Writing style: 4/5
Ex/OW foolery:
Triggers: Yes.

Nikki Givens is the girl next door. The very uncouth girl next door. Eric Brenton is the new addition to the neighborhood and also the new thorn in Nikki's side. They get into a heated argument one night about his loud, partying ways and she doesn't hesitate to throw his antique camera into the bay. What appears to be a random confrontation of sorts is just the tip of the iceberg in this story.

This book started off with a serious tone, suddenly became drenched with sensuality, and then half-way through the story I was still unclear as to who, what, when, where, why? Wait, what now?!

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Everyone in this story was dysfunctional! This book felt more like a psychological drama as opposed to a thriller! Every character in this story couldn't be trusted, including the narrator herself, Nikki.

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Some areas of the story felt choppy on purpose, like the author was instigating something more sinister, but then pulled away to leave the reader hungering for more, and I gladly took the bait!

The erotica component in this story seemed to overshadow the mystery-related elements within the storyline. It felt like the questions the reader needed answers to got muddled in between all of the OW theatrics and all of the purposely distracting, yet phenomenal steamy times. The male lead made everyone want to lose their undergarments, even though it was clear that he was NOT the good guy in this story!

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Favorite lines by Dr. Brenton?


Issues?
There was one scene that left me a bit upset.

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That scene was not my favorite!

Although this book falls under the romance category, I wasn't sold on the main characters being in love with each other. They had great chemistry together, but both were so dysfunctional and warped by their disturbing childhoods that I wasn't entirely convinced that they knew the difference between authentic love and obsession. It's also one of those stories that makes little sense until the reader gets to the ending. The entire book is narrated by the female lead, except for the very last chapter, and what a satisfying chapter it was!

Overall, this story provided one heck of an entertaining read! Enjoyed!
Profile Image for Jillian (NetGalley Addict).
312 reviews66 followers
August 6, 2014
***Warning: Contains graphic language, frequent graphic sex, violence, and very dark themes.

***First and foremost, The Sordid Promise is a psychological thriller. The erotic elements are secondary. It is not a simple, happy story. This is a twisted, complicated, and broken story.
Please, please read the PREFACE before purchasing.


Let me start by saying this was a recommendation from the great JaHy I love the books she sends she has never steered me wrong, so I bought it sight unseen. Then I saw something about the H being a dirty talking man with a huge penis, I did a happy dance to that and jumped right in.

Diouana aka Nikki comes home to take care of her dying mother, however, she has so many issues of her own that she can barely get out of bed let alone function like a normal person. I really liked her she was so messed up, but she knew it, acknowledged it and was a bitch to anyone who tried to change her.


She meets the neighbor Dr. Eric Brenton who is also her mothers doctor....He's a controlling scary dirty talking manipulative asshole who you will love/hate because you just can't help it.


As for the storyline at first I was all


Then shit got crazy


Hello a bunch of this


At one point I was thinking all was lost but then



I know my review is all over the place, but honestly this book had me all over the place. I loved it, it was a wonderfully delicious mindfuck!
Profile Image for Carolina L. .
145 reviews
April 20, 2014
BR with my girls!! xD (Thank you two for understanding me... I know i can be a pain in the ass :P)

WARNING!! MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS
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I'll go straight to the point...
This book didn't work as much as I wished, for some reasons... but here's the main for me:

- the fact that Eric was didn't suprised me, AT ALL... was too obvious for me... and what i'm about to say, maybe is a bit mean... but please, seriously? Who wouldn't notice?;

"I hated the way he spoke to me. It was liken to a therapist trying to subdue an unruly patient."


- the dialogue between Erik and Nikki during sex was HOT... but there was times when I would think... "WTF are they doing? Please... don't say anything else..." and they...

"Cream on my cock, baby.”


- THE F***** END!!! Pissed me like hell! Now, try to see my point...
I was presented to a dark erotic book... with some kind of mind fuck story... and believe me, I was ok with that! But then, and taking into account what i said above, i almost saw it coming...
Mind fuck at the beginning... mind fuck until the end!


These were some of the "problems" i had with the book. But need to say that was very well written, with the ability to keep me dragged to it!
I wished it had worked differently for me... I guess is one of those books... when you have a love/hate relationship with it!
Profile Image for Michelle.
944 reviews219 followers
February 8, 2017
5 My Mind Is A Mess Stars!!
“No one’s sane. That’s just shit you know. We’re all crazy. Some of us just hide it better than others. Some of us go crazy because we see the crazy in everybody else."
This is my first read by Courtney Lane and will not be my last. This woman had me up all night drinking coffee because I did NOT want to stop reading. I loved every fucking page!!
This book...was a total mess! Wait! Maybe I was a total mess while reading it. lol It fucked with my mind! I seriously couldn't figure out what was going on. Who to trust. Who was bad. Who was good. Who was crazy. Who was not. Everybody was fucking crazy!!! Did I care? Hell no!!! I just stayed up and kept right on reading! lol
Nikki's in a dark place. She is on anxiety and depression meds, her moms dying, she's a cutter and she has no friends. Her mom is worried about her being alone after she dies.
I loved Nikki! She had that I don't give a fuck attitude. She had no filter when she spoke. She was perfectly fine staying in her home with no friends.
While walking outside her house one day she runs into her new neighbor Eric. She basically tells him to fuck off. Then while in the hospital visiting her mother in walks Eric. Guess what? Yep! Dr. Eric Brenton works at the hospital where her mom is. Why is he there? Why is he her new neighbor? Is he there to help Nikki?
“Smile like that while asking me for the moon, and I’ll find some way to give it to you.” -Eric
Sweet baby Jesus!! Eric...was...whew! I swear my panties evaporated! Poof! This damn man delivered what ever he said!
“I’m going to fuck you, and it’s going to turn your world on its ass when I do. You will be so strung out over my cock, you’ll ache for it like a junkie.” -Eric
“I’m going to enjoy making you come on my cock, my fingers, and in my mouth. My sex is going to set a standard that no man has ever reached, and nor will another man get a fucking chance to.” -Eric
“I tried to tell you. It only gets worse from here on out, baby. I want you to see me for the monster that I really am. Too many people see it and pretend it isn’t there. But, not you, Nik. Because I know when you find out everything…it’ll only bring us closer. It has to sit on the shelf until the perfect time. Not yet. You’re not fully invested in this yet. But when you are, you will know everything.” -Eric
I can't tell you anything more because I really don't know if I KNOW anything. Even after I have finished reading this I STILL am thinking on it. Lmao
WARNING!
This work of fiction contains very dark themes that may offend the sensitive reader. If you are not a fan of erotic, dark and twisted romances, psychological thrillers, or complicated romances this story will not appeal to you. It also deals with mental health issues, sadomasochism, disturbing violence, and the like.

Profile Image for Yona Racheva.
1,267 reviews251 followers
August 20, 2014
I don't think I've ever read more dark and twisted book and I'm not sure what that makes me but I totally loved it, it got to me from page one and even now after I finished it it still hasn't let me go.
I loved the writing, the characters, the storyline and especially the end, I seriously can't think of even one thing I disliked and believe me there were lots of bad and twisted things here.

It was a long time since a book kept me in my toes the way this one did, I cried, smiled and laughed.

This goes on the top of my favorite books for the year and i guess I found a new favorite author.

I'm really happy how this type of characters got this kind of ending.
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