Emerald Bruises

The Jewelry Box #2

by Pepper Winters

Buckle in and enjoy the second steamy book in the dastardly dark world of... The Jewelry Box.

“I made a bargain with a monster.
A vow to save both our lives.
I thought our commitment would stay true.
It didn’t.”

I’ve spent my entire life alone.
I’m well used to loneliness and the endless pain of having no one.
Sure, we made a bargain. We shared our secrets and made a vow.
But I warned her not to do one tiny thing.
One very important thing.
For a while, she obeyed me.
Until the night she didn’t.
And now…the connection we shared?
That alliance we forged?
It’s broken.
I’m broken.
And by the time I’m done with her…she’ll be broken too.

Triggers on every warning possible.
This is dark and will push every possible boundary that exists.
Be warned....

Genres: Dark Romance, Dark, BDSM, Abuse, Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Contemporary

281 pages, Paperback

Published April 3, 2024

About the author

Pepper Winters is a multiple New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today International Bestseller.

She currently has thirty books released in nine languages. She’s hit best-seller lists (USA Today, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal) thirty-three times. She dabbles in multiple genres, ranging from Dark Romance to Coming of Age.

After chasing her dreams to become a full-time writer, Pepper has earned recognition with awards for best Dark Romance, best BDSM Series, and best Hero. She’s an multiple #1 iBooks bestseller, along with #1 in Erotic Romance, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary, and Erotica Thriller. With 20 books currently published, she has hit the bestseller charts twenty-nine times in three years.

Pepper is a Hybrid Author of both Traditional and Self-published work. Her Pure Corruption Series was released by Grand Central, Hachette.

Her books have garnered foreign interest and are currently being translated into numerous languages, including already released titles in Italian, French, Hebrew, German, and Turkish.

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She loves mail of any kind: pepperwinters@gmail.com

You can stalk her here:

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Reviews

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

'𝐄M𝐄R𝐀L𝐃 𝐁R𝐔I𝐒E𝐒' Is the second full length dark romance book within the (Jewelry Box) series by author Pepper Winters. This kicks off right where the previous book left off. Spoken in 'dual perspectives.' And of course this one also ends in a cliffy.

After that cliffy and the way things ended in the previous book I couldn't wait to dive back into this dark gut curdling world. Once this landed on my iPad, I grabbed a coffee, settled down in my favourite reading spot, and fell down a rabbit hole of true terror as I rooted for ‘little nightmare & Peter’ to come out of this unscathed.

Heart pounding, hoping against hope that they survive.

Guests against Slaves



I truly don’t know how I feel about Henri, one minute I’d felt empathy towards him, the next I felt pure anger as he divulged everything and succumbed into his newfound freedom embracing this new world he’d fallen into with open arms. A time or two you’d see a softer side of him emerge, only to be snuffed out within the blink of an eye.

His obsession that maybe his undoing.
To protect her, puts a target on her back.

This pulled me in straight away, loving and and equal parts hating everything this author threw at me.

It’s gritty
It’s dark
It’s terrifying
And will have you sitting on the edge of your seat.

* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *

Email ಇ Twitter ಇ Instagram ಇ Blog ಇ Facebook ಇ Amazon 
ಇ Pinterest 

[Faiza Daudo · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I’m finally free.” His voice echoed in my buzzing mind. “Free.”

I Believe I better pour all that I am feeling right now and write this review instead of giving myself time to sort through my feelings. This is my unfiltered review.

This book made me feel a myriad of emotions. I felt a lot of shock. Some dread and a bit of sympathy for Henri.

Pepper stays true to the dark romance genre in the sense that the story descends into a darker path. A path that I am both excited to read and dreadful for what the characters will have to endure going forward. She did not shy away from hurting the characters and as a consequence, us readers. But as the masochistic dark romance reader that I am, I am inhaling all of the darkness and savoring every single word in this book.

Victor was right. Life existed in balance. Predators and prey. Monsters and meek.

In this book we have a front row sit into what really goes inside Henri's mind and how much all of the emotional and physical neglect during his childhood really shaped him as a whole.

There are so many different facets to each of these characters and you will see a new side to some of the characters.

The Henri we knew took a whole new depth. He finally embraces his dark side and rejoices in it. Reading about his descent into the darkest depths of his being was a thrilling experience.

Ily. My sweet and too trusting Ily.

Ily in this installment finally got her eyes open and the reality of her situation downed on her.

We see a slow but swift character arc for Ily. She finally starts using her brain and the assets she has to fight back, although many times it lands her in murky waters. But survival demands sacrifice and she seems to be ready for everything. Or is she?

My love for Peter seems to grow and grow. And it never falters. No matter how stubborn and content he might be into accepting his fate. But no matter how strong, burdened with what he himself did, every one cracks under the pressure.

But... like Victor said: without predators, prey ran amok.

As for our dear and favorite Villain. Victor stays true to his character. Whereas we get a new depth into his wonderful persona, my feelings haven't changed. I can understand, but I have no desire of accepting it. Does that makes any sense?

Overall this was an absolutely amazing sequel. If you liked Ruby Tears, get ready for this book, because the ride gets a lot more dark and bumpy.
Pepper will have you doubting your love for Henri and wanting to just transform into words and go save these poor and precious Jewels.

“Emerald Bruises begins now.”

And one more thing: THE ENDING DID NOT DISAPPOINT.
It stood true to what a cliffhanger really means.

Thank you Pepper for the early copy of this book, I cannot express how grateful I am that I did not have to wait one more day.

[Kealyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emerald Bruises by Pepper Winters

5/5 stars

Good lord, The Jewelry Box series does NOT disappointed! Pepper Winters wrote another masterpiece! Emerald Bruises is the second addictive book in this series.

It picks up right where Ruby Tears left off. Henri is well and truly released and he doesn't have a care in the world anymore. While Ily suffers he rejoices. His beast craves, takes and utters his perverse thoughts to Ily.

And Ily breaks for a short while. While Henri realizes he doesn't need Q anymore. He doesn't need to be controlled anymore. He is finally free. And his needs, his wants - have a right to exist in this world. And he will take them all. And force them all upon Ily. Cause she is his and his alone.

"My name is Henri fucking Mercer, and you, little nightmare, are mine. Body, mind, and soul."

SPOILER ALERT IN THE NEXT 3 PARAGRAHPS

I shivered when he uttered that. And when he calls Q. To tell him of his choice. And how he chooses his needs over the victims and Ily screams out for him to save her.

"I'm coming for you, Ilyana. I vow I'll find you, and I'll fucking kill my brother for what he's done to you."

Oh Q, how I've missed you. Q you have my heart, my soul. Yes you're brother is worthy too. But Q, please kick his ass at least once! I need you too.

I even felt revulsion in a few scenes. I couldn't enjoy the sex scenes. It did felt like rape. Like he overstepped. But that line is so go***mn thin. The line between Ily embracing what she is. And between her needing him to stop.

Yet as he stood there, crazy-eyed and dripping in need, I saw him. The real him. The lonely boy. The tortured man. The feral monster.

My heart broke for Henri. And like Ily I ache to see the goodness in him. I believed there is a goodness in him. I believe the pain she sees in his eyes. I feel it. He is lost. So, so lost.

Pepper you wrung me dry. You battered me with one emotion after the other. You broke me, killed me and healed me all at once.

And that ending!! That cliffhanger. I need book 3 ASAP!!!!

Keep on my writing Pepper. My dark and depraved heart aches for the characters you create in your dark mind! You are my favorite author for a reason. And I just cannot stop reading your books! You are a gift to the world! Big hug!

[Anastasia ｼ · Rating 4 out of 5]

╭ ✦ •
│
│ ⊹ 𝟺 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜 ⊹
│
╰ ✦ •

holy cliffhanger

I have been sucked into this new world, while I'm not completely into the idea of "if Jeffery Epstein's Sex Trafficking Island was a Mansion in Europe" plotline; this is pretty unique, esp all the jewel references, which is well done imo.

Emerald Bruises picks up right where book one ended, Henri is now unshackled, free from any burdens, reveling in his newfound liberty. While Ily grapples with suffering, Henri basks in jubilation. His inner desires drive him to seize and express his twisted thoughts to Ily without restraint.

This was so much better than book 1
looking forward to book 3 in june!!

rtc

_________________________________
The Mercer Curse | Review
Ruby Tears | Review
Emerald Bruises | Review
Sapphire Scars | Review
Diamond Kisses | Review

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[Annica ⚡️ annica_reads_books ⚡️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second installment of the Jewelry Box series is here, and just as I predicted, the level of darkness escalates and goes deeper in Emerald Bruises than we saw in Ruby Tears.

Ruby Tears ended on a cliffhanger, and readers can rest assured that the cliffhanger is immediately addressed as Emerald Tears commences. I was very pleased at the level of detail described in that scene - an attribute I’ve come to expect in any work written by Pepper Winters.

Emerald Bruises went places that I was expecting and also places that I was not expecting. Henri is embracing his inner darkness, but still frequently feels turmoil and anguish over it in certain situations and hasn’t fully committed to the level of depravity that I expect him to eventually get to. His morals, while occasionally buried or pushed to the side, do resurface several times through the story, and this has left me feeling that I still don’t understand his character (he’s a mystery that I need to read more about to unlock). Truthfully, I think Henri is a mystery to himself - he’s not sure what he really wants because the war within him continues to rage on.

Ily’s reaction and adaptation to Henri’s darkness took a refreshing turn - one that I haven’t seen in a Pepper Winters book. I always admire the fact that while Pepper Winters has written many books and series that revolve around the theme of human trafficking, her characters and their stories remain unique and able to stand on their own, and Emerald Bruises is no exception to that. Ily can still be quite naïve on occasion, but she’s adapting and learning as she remains a captive in Joyero.

There are many side characters that added a lot of depth to the story - Peter, in particular, is someone I’m anxious to read more about because I feel like he adds so much value to Ily’s survival and journey under the Master Jeweler’s watchful eyes. 👁️👁️

I had a few ideas on what Emerald Bruises could mean, but when it came time to announce what it was, I wouldn’t have guessed THAT!

I need the next installment, Sapphire Scars, as soon as possible! I knew that Emerald Bruises would end on a cliffhanger going into it, and wasn’t surprised when it did.

[Melanie A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STARS!!

"If I'm a sadist - if I'm finally ready to admit that word - then, I hate to tell you, little nightmare, but you - with all your morals and sweetness, beneath all your goodness and bravery - you are nothing more than my angry, dirty masochist."

Loved this installment! I did NOT see that coming. This was me: 😱😱

I'm fully invested in Henri and Ilyana!

[MissPetiteBrunetteBookBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.8 Stars)
Book 2 in the Jewelry Box series takes off where book one left us with our jars on the floor. Henri unlocked the monster within but can he find a way to control himself or has he gone to far already? With Ily finally realizing the full impact of her predicament, will she be strong enough to make it through and find a way to survive? “I told you what would happen, little nightmare. I told you what exists inside me.” Get ready for a dark descent into the Jewelry Box where nightmares and desires combine. There were some parts was were slower for me personally but as a whole this is still an enjoyable haunting read. Please check the TW’s as this is a continuation of an extremely dark topic romance. I’m loving the twists unlocked through each challenge these two need to go through. Another difficult choice must me made which leaves us on a major cliffhanger. Told in first person and dual POV.

[Vanessa Booked Up · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ Stars!

Good God, WTH did I just read?! This book just put my heart and my nerves in a dang blender! It was even better than Ruby Tears.

𝘼𝙨 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙪𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚, 𝙄 𝙨𝙖𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖 𝙜𝙞𝙧𝙡. 𝘼 𝙩𝙤𝙮. 𝘼 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜.
𝙈𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜.
𝙏𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙨 𝙄 𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚.



My God, I swear I read the first 30% of this book like this: 🙈🙈

You think you’re a dark romance veteran, until you read Pepper Winters, and then you remember that you’re actually a pitiful wimp!

What to Expect:
• Knife play 🔪
• Blood play 🩸
• BDSM
• Dub con
• VERY morally grey hero
• Forced proximity

This book picks up right where Ruby Tears left off and, let me tell you, it hits the ground running. Pepper pulled no punches in this story.

Henri is unleashed and I spent half this book afraid of him and the other half just feeling so bad for him. He is trying to embrace and understand himself while not completely losing touch with his moral compass…

And I was not expecting where Ily’s character went but I’m here for it!

When they aren’t at odds with each other, they are battling ALL the threats surrounding them, of which there are many in Joyero.

Once again, this story consumed me from the first word. Pepper takes us further down into the deep, seductive world of The Jewelry Box. The pull between Henri and Ily is so strong that you are both routing and terrified for them the whole time.

And, my goodness, when we actually found out what Emerald Bruises means… 😳

This series is dark romance gold with a cast of complex characters and woven in a dark underworld of sin and intrigue. I cannot wait to see where it goes next and I am SO hooked!

[Tatianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Emerald Bruises by Pepper Winters is the second instalment of The Jewelry Box series, a dark romance series that follows the same couple through a high-stakes journey into the world of human trafficking: Henri Mercer, a hero that has given into his dark urges, and Ily Sharma, the captive object of his dark affection.

While I was happy to see that Pepper addressed something that was nagging at me from the previous book and that we had some forward movement in the overarching plot, it still felt like a lot of the same... but with more theatrics.

If you've read Ruby Tears, you know that the cliffhanger involves Henri on the brink of a significant transformation. Though he definitely changes his outward presentation, it's pretty clear that he is still internally warring with his morals. He talks the talk, but his actions that follow had me feeling as though not much had changed at all.

“You think I deserve all this pain?”
“Yes. I do. Because you cause me pain just by existing.”

With this instalment, it became difficult for me to suspend my belief for the story. The secluded and infamous Joyero is like if Disney opened a sex slave park. At one point, the men started joking about getting off on causing pain through lawn bowling over the slaves... and I just couldn't take it seriously. The games they "play" with the slaves are very elaborate and over the top, which dampened the overall darkness of the book for me.

Having said that, the cliffhanger shamelessly roped me in and I will probably read the next because I'm itching to know what happens. Part of me needs to know what "Sapphire Scars" denotes.. though I am going to do my best to adjust my expectations for round three.

I am truly grateful to Pepper Winters for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Unfortunately, I am not sure that I am the right audience for this particular series.

[💜VGreedyReader🖤 · Rating 5 out of 5]

★♾️ stars★

Exquisitely executed. Pepper never fails to deliver a deliciously dark story and haunting atmosphere a decadent experience, characters that will breach your heart to live rent free for eternity. I found hard to leave this story and accept that I live in the real world and not in the amazingly dark setting this author can create.

~𝐵𝓊𝓉 𝓃𝑜𝓌…𝐼 𝓌𝒶𝓈 𝓁𝑜𝓈𝓉. 𝒫𝓁𝓊𝓂𝓂𝑒𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒾𝓃𝓉𝑜 𝓅𝑒𝓇𝓅𝑒𝓉𝓊𝒶𝓁 𝒹𝒶𝓇𝓀𝓃𝑒𝓈𝓈 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝐼’𝒹 𝒶𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝒷𝑒𝓁𝑜𝓃𝑔𝑒𝒹~

Dark romance at its finest, a masterpiece of depravity and sensual vibes, let your senses be captivated by this tormented journey. Giving in has never felt so good.

~𝐸𝓎𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝓇𝓊𝓁𝓎 𝓌𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓃𝒹𝑜𝓌𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝓅𝑒𝑜𝓅𝓁𝑒’𝓈 𝓈𝑜𝓊𝓁𝓈, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝐼 𝒸𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹𝓃’𝓉 𝓁𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝒶𝓌𝒶𝓎 𝒶𝓈 𝐻𝑒𝓃𝓇𝒾—𝓋𝒶𝓃𝒾𝓈𝒽𝑒𝒹 𝒷𝑒𝓃𝑒𝒶𝓉𝒽 𝐻𝑒𝓃𝓇𝒾, 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓇𝓊𝓉𝒽𝓁𝑒𝓈𝓈 𝑀𝒶𝓈𝓉𝑒𝓇~

As Henri falls down into his new found darkness he also becomes less and less in control of a spiralling situation. He finally accepts his unbearable need to own and possess, his thirst for Ily’s submission is unquenchable. As he slowly tries to get familiar with his newfound identity he also discovers new truths, he explores hidden corners and he finds out unpleasant secrets. My souls cried and was bound to him as he descended into hell.

~𝐿𝒾𝒻𝑒 𝑒𝓍𝒾𝓈𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓃 𝒷𝒶𝓁𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒. 𝒫𝓇𝑒𝒹𝒶𝓉𝑜𝓇𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓅𝓇𝑒𝓎. 𝑀𝑜𝓃𝓈𝓉𝑒𝓇𝓈 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓂𝑒𝑒𝓀. 𝐼 𝒸𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹𝓃’𝓉 𝒸𝒽𝒶𝓃𝑔𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝑜 𝐼 𝓌𝒶𝓈; 𝐼’𝒹 𝑜𝓃𝓁𝓎 𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁𝑒𝒹 𝓂𝓎𝓈𝑒𝓁𝒻 𝒷𝓎 𝓉𝓇𝓎𝒾𝓃𝑔~

Ilyana is as brave as reckless, she doesn’t bow down and doesn’t succumb, she fights her Master and she doesn’t shy away from showing her hate for loathsome Victor. While she’s trying her hardest to fight Henri she also uncovers unwanted feels, new sides of her being threaten to crumble her steadfast beliefs. While she never forgets her promise to the jewels she struggles to cope with her new existence. It was impossible not to admire this formidable woman and feel her pain seeping into my bones.

~“𝒫𝓁𝒶𝓎 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝓂𝑒, 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝓃𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓂𝒶𝓇𝑒, 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝓂𝓎 𝑔𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝓌𝑒𝒶𝓀𝓃𝑒𝓈𝓈 𝒾𝓈 𝓎𝑜𝓊, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒹𝒶𝓎 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓊𝓃𝒹𝑒𝓇𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒹𝒶𝓎 𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝓉𝓇𝓊𝑒 𝑔𝒶𝓂𝑒𝓈 𝒷𝑒𝑔𝒾𝓃.”~

This second instalment descends into a darker recess, the promise for an even darker opus is delivered with a breathtaking cliffhanger. I can’t wait to see how the story continues in the next chapter and sample what other harrowing surprises this author has in store for us. Needless to say I’m salivating over the thought of Henri and Q reunion.

[Stephanie (Bookfever) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emerald Bruises is the second book in the Jewelry Box series and this sequel definitely didn't disappoint. If anything, things got kicked up quite a few notches in wickedness, depravity and uncontrollable lust. It's obviously not a surprise to me but I'm still amazed at how Pepper Winters has such a way with words. Her writing is beautifully lyrical, powerful and so intense.

The story picks right up where it left off at the end of Ruby Tears and things get much more dark very quickly. Now that Henri has freed himself from what basically was his conscience, he feels more himself than he's ever been which means Ily is his to do with as he pleases. I felt myself both hating and feeling sorry for him, much like what Ily was feeling throughout the book. But towards the end there absolutely was a shift I could feel in Henri, one for the better I think.

Ily, meanwhile, is really struggling. She has feelings for Henri, yes, but can't forgive him for being the reason for getting her in this position. I also felt a shift with her, acknowledging some things about herself like admitting she does have feeling for Henri and that she does like being hurt. I'm sure this shift will be even more pronounced in the next installment. But of course I think things will get worse for her before they get better. I'm also expecting Q (Henri's brother) to show up at one point to kill every bastard on that island. I will gladly wait for that moment.

And as per usual the book ended in a cliffhanger. So it's no surprise that I'm really can't wait for the next book, Sapphire Scars. There will be four installments in total so I have no doubt that the third book will be very important to how the last one will go. I'm so excited to find out soon!

[TheBookPlatypus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come but someone refresh my memory. Was Ilys biological parents talked about ?!

Because what if…. She’s a sibling… to… Henri…
No?! Possibly?!


This series is getting darker and darker.
As Henri still struggles with his humanity, he finds himself wanting to devour Ily’s mind, body, and soul.

“Life existed in balance. Predators and prey. Monsters and meek. I couldn't change who I was; I'd only killed myself by trying.”

Henri wants to stay at this house of horrors so he can keep Ily all to himself. For his pleasure, for his fantasy’s, for his depraved kinks.

Ily is desperately just trying to survive. The other victims are hanging on by a thread of survival but their lives are just a game to these predators on this secret island. No rules. Where men can do as they please.
It’s dark and twisted.
This is not a romance.
This is a dark story of sexual slavery and sadistic men who have no soul.

"Fight me, Ilyana Sharma. Go to war with me. Make me earn your blood, your screams, your pain. Play monsters with me. Play house with me. Play in fucking hell with me. Cry for me when I have you bound and bleeding, and then accept my worship when it's over. Let me punish you and idolize you. I don't just want yourfear, I want your lust too. I want your mind, your heart, your soul, and I don't care that I can't buy them. I'll earn them...one delicious bruise at a time."

I’m truly scared for the other slaves. While Ily is somewhat protected by Henri’s ownership, the other slaves are not and I’m fearing the worse.
This story isn’t for the faint of heart.
I’m hoping this horror turns into retaliation and war soon.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Take everything you think you know is going to happen and throw it right out the window because OMG, Pepper Winters will have you at the edge of your seat with each and every curveball she throws and believe me when I say she hits a grand slam with EMERALD BRUISES. I cannot wait for SAPPHIRE SCARS.
Review to follow

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.

Holy freaking heck. Pepper Winters has outdone herself. This was simply incredible.

She's such a talented author. The ups and downs of both Ily and Henri's thought and emotions were perfectly written. I felt everything they did. Not all authors can do that and Pepper Winters does it over and over again.

I know Henri is technically the morally bad guy in this, but I loved him so much. He so desperately wanted to love someone and be loved by someone, he just has no idea how to go about it. I love a book where the hero falls first and Henri definitely falls hard.

Ily was so heartbroken by Henri's betrayal that she didn't know what to do with herself but man did she come back strong and full of fight. She fought back and really stood up for herself. I always love a strong heroine.

I cannot wait for the next book.

[Abstract ♥ Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS



Star Rating : 4.5 / 5 Stars

POV : Dual

Cliffhanger : Yes

Pace of the story : Moderate

Angst Rating : 6/10

Heat Rating : 6/10

Overall Opinion :
Another read by pepper winters is here! I have been eagerly waiting for this installment after that huge cliffhanger in the last book. Pepper truly has the most brutal cliffhangers but her heroes , the plot twists , amazing storylines and angst that I have never read before , just makes it all worth it and I always find myself risking my sanity with her cliffhangers due to the amazing words she writes.

This one is also a cliffhanger and I won't do you mercy by saying that it's a mild one 😂🫂 Pepper is back to writing her gut wrenching dark romances with all the triggers and angst and I am always here for the ride! Definitely recommending this one to all the dark romance loving people out there!

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[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Look, there’s no denying that Pepper can write. I’ve been a fan of hers since the monsters in the dark series, and she’s only gotten more talented from there, but this series is not working for me. I was hoping that since this one was set to be darker that I would finally feel like I was reading a monsters spin off, but I don’t. The world feels different, the characters don’t feel as genuine, and I have zero connection to Ily and Henri. Henri was supposed to be a different version in this book, and I found that he spent more time thinking about being that new person than doing anything about it. He talked a big game about what he wanted to do, but very little actually happened which left me wondering what I was even reading. Ily is so headstrong that it’s annoying, and I feel as though she would have been killed long before now with how much she talks back to her masters in all settings.

I feel as though the disconnect comes from the writing style pepper uses now. She’s become so into these fantasy books, and from when she wrote fables, that she feels like she needs to constantly give detail. So instead of how in tears of Tess you would have a lot more interaction going on between Q and Tess, you instead have 10 pages about how the outdoors looks, the reflection in the pool, the scenery, and very little is left to having anyone talking to someone else or giving you a scene that might make you root for either character. I was really looking forward to this one specifically, but it too fell short, and I just don’t think this series is for me.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby Tears left me on the edge for what was to come in Emerald Bruises. I never left the edge though. I was dangling by a thread of unease the entire time. I devoured this book in a couple of days (that’s fast for me). I just couldn’t put it down.

In this second book, Henri believes he has fully embraced and accepted his monster, leaving his old self behind. But I was relieved that he still seemed to have some semblance of humanity about him. His level of unhinged protectiveness rang true to form of a Mercer man. He craves to both hurt and nurture, but only when it comes to Ily. The problem is that when he tries to pull Ily into him, she keeps pushing him away. Testing his resolve.

I truly fear for Ily. She hasn’t seemed to quite understand the dire situation she is in and maybe a bit too brave and outspoken for her own safety. Her actions are not only risking her own well-being but also endangering the other jewels. However, I can't fault her; she is a fighter! I just hope she can hold on to her fight through the worst of her trials ahead.

Henri’s resilience hasn't waned completely, but I fear it's just a matter of time before it does, especially in the intense environment of Joyero, which constantly unsettles me. I honestly can’t predict what Henri’s next move will be in his quest to stay alive and keep Ily for himself

My inner and outward commentary throughout reading Emerald Bruises was a string of reactions to Henri’s actions.
“Henri, no!”
“Don’t do it, Henri.”
“Oh Henri, what have you done?”

Once again, the writing is impeccable! This book feels more fast-paced than the first book, yet it doesn’t compromise on detail, character depth, or depravity. I can’t wait to see what is in store for Henri, Ily, and the rest of the jewels.

[JenniiTheBookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Did I drop all my current reads as soon as Pepper sent me this? Yes. Yes, I did. Did I read it all in one sitting? You’re damn right, I did.

If you’re thinking/hoping that there may be hope after that excruciating cliffhanger in 𝚁𝚄𝙱𝚈 𝚃𝙴𝙰𝚁𝚂… 𝗬𝗼𝘂'𝗿𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴. This tale gets darker and even more sinister.

As the story continues to unfold you can’t help but to fall further into Henri’s trap. This man literally tested my every emotion. I admired Ily’s strength and will to survive the hell she’s been forced to endure.

Also….. am I the only one terrified of Q when he comes face to face with Henri?! Ha! See what I did there? I said “when” because we all know Q never quits and shit is going to go down.

Pepper once again, graced us with another heart stoping cliffhanger. And I am not okay. 😮‍💨

[Natalia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The h is still too hardheaded, again she got away with a lot in that horrible place...

The H was great at being the anti-hero, but has we discover what he's been through, my heart broke for that little boy.

Pepper writing is amazing and we get all the feelings!!

[Mimiorphee · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the first opus, I was left wondering if Henri would finally give in, I was intrigued and wanted him to take that last leap into the darkness.
Emerald Bruises didn't disappoint. I got what I was waiting for, and then some!
The palpable atmosphere, unhinged, sickening, threw me back into the experience.
I couldn't read fast enough to find out if/ how the characters would get pit of the gruesome predicaments. Twisted storyline, fast paced plot, every ingredient was there for me to have a great reading time.
I holding back on the last star because I thought that Ily was a tad too naive and forgiving. Besides, I noted many discrepancies that could have been avoided. And cherry on top, the French translations weren't always accurate. Better ask to native people instead of AI...

[Chay Charita Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Words like spellbinding, jaw dropping, feral, gritty, aren’t sufficient enough descriptors to capture the primal energy in this unforgettable world….my amazement continues to soar with this gem of a story!

Pepper Winters is a masterful wordsmith creating indelible characters that I love to love and despicable ones I love to hate. Riveting doesn’t even begin to describe this wickedly amazing story with deliciously flawed characters, a complex explicitly scorching narrative and utterly compelling plot.

Pepper Winters continues The Jewelry Box Series with Book 2, Emerald Bruises, after finishing it, I’m left completely transfixed. Immersed with the characters and their intense energy and emotions, I’m feeling bereft needing more of this epic experience!

Henri continues to evolve and is an amazingly haunting antihero whom succumbs to his inner demons. His intense desire for Ily is palpable and undeniable.
He has a flashback that has captured my imagination with curiosity and anticipation as to where that will eventually lead.

Ily continues to intrigue me. She is strong and resilient in accepting her circumstances at the moment but I know there is much more to come for her and from her as she endures it all. She sees the lonely boy in Henri, she’s trying to understand the tortured man who not only consumes but perplexes her.

“I wasn’t his greatest weakness. It was that. The two L words. Love and loneliness.”

Oh, and villainous, suspicious Victor ratcheting up the games will only add to this tale of survival.

Book 3, Sapphire Scars can’t come soon enough! I await with bated breath!

*See all triggers on Pepper’s website.

[Samantha (rain.books.and.tea) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️3🌶️5🎧

This book picks up right where Ruby Tears ended and I couldn’t wait to see how things were going to change now that Henry had given up all pretense at civility.

This book was even darker than the first and poor Illy was simultaneously so strong and completely broken. I loved her resilience and determination to survive even if it meant compartmentalizing and disassociating so she could claim some semblance of power and control of her horrific situation.

Henry fully succumbed to his base desires and thought he was finally free. But his thinking was so incredibly warped that he couldn’t understand why Illy wouldn’t be happy about their circumstances.

I enjoyed the evolution of Henry and Illy’s relationship and how they both learned about their darker desires and struggled with their feelings for each other for very different reasons.

I think this book was too long. Some of the darker scenes started to feel a bit repetitive and gratuitous and I found myself skimming parts of the book. But that being said I am still hooked and curious about how this will end and so will definitely be picking up book 3.

The narrators were amazing! I love a duet narration and they brought so much life to these characters.

[Amy Hallford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy Release Day dearest Pepper!!

📖 : Emerald Bruises
👩🏻‍💻 : Pepper Winters
⭐️: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🗓️ : 9th April 2024

Once again Pepper allows us entrance to her incredible mind and we delve further into this world of depravity.

Things get darker and it is guaranteed at moments you will be left putting the book down and wondering if you just read that bit. I have to admit at moments I really did want to reach into the book and shake my fist at certain characters.

Ily grows as a character and now knows exactly where she has found herself and with who. And I true pepper fashion the queen of cliffhangers didn’t disappoint.

Bring on Sapphire Scars.

#bookrecomendation #books #booklover #happy #reader #romancebooks #love #Shelfie #bookstagram #ilovereading #romance #BookObsessed #Bookdragon #bookboyfriend #bookboyfriendsdoitbetter #Spicy #ARCReader #EmeraldBruises #pepperwinters

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark Romance Gets Brutal

Emerald Bruises, book two in Pepper Winters' The Jewelry Box series, isn't your typical love story. Emerald Bruises is a rollercoaster ride of betrayal and revenge that'll leave you clutching your pearls (or whatever you clutch during dark romance binges).

Imagine making a deal with the devil (well, a monster at least). That's what our lonely protagonist did. They spilled secrets, formed a shaky alliance, but then BAM! Their partner in crime breaks one crucial rule. Forget happily ever after – it's payback time.

This book is all about broken trust and twisted feelings. Were they ever really in love? Who knows! But one thing's for sure: the anger is real, and things are about to get messy.

In a nutshell, Emerald Bruises is angsty, suspenseful, and perfect for anyone who likes their romance dark and their characters a little messed up. So, grab your popcorn (or tissues, depending on the mood) and get ready for a wild ride!

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stunned. What did I just read? It's possible this is the most intense, edge-of-my-seat reads that I have had courtesy of Ms. Winters.
I could describe it as Beauty and the Beast with a twist. Twist is the word. These two characters, Henri and Ily, are simple in their flaws, but it's what makes them amazing.
Both are twisted with their veracity for each other yet repelled at the same time. Like magnets on the same pole, the fight to unite, but then the veil follows on one, and a pole flips, drawing them like moths to flames. With burns that even the reader feels; at least this one did. Off to book 3.


***On a side note; there is a reason I try to have an entire series before reading it because knowing that the final book is not arriving until next year with me torturous. And not the 'Ri' kind.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pepper Winters can weave a tale like no other.

Needless to say, I dropped everything that I was reading when I got my hands on this book. It did not disappoint!

Emerald Tears is book #2 in The Jewelry Box series. We watch Henri continues to fight his dark side and Ily keeps fighting at every turn. I’m afraid to see how this last game turns out, because I have a bad feeling that it’s not going to be good.

“Henri and Ily’s tale continues in Sapphire Scars... Henri is a hunter, Ily is his prey…what will happen when he catches her?” Don’t forget to preorder so it’s yours on release day! Preorder HERE

I can’t wait for the release of Sapphire Scars!

[Karli · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Play monsters with me. Play house with me. Play in fucking hell with me. Cry for me when I have you bound and bleeding, and then accept my worship when it’s over. Let me punish you and idolize you. I don’t just want your fear, I want your lust too. I want your mind, your heart, your soul, and I don’t care that I can’t buy them. I’ll earn them…one delicious bruise at a time.”

My heart breaks for this lost and lonely soul. How Pepper manages to make me pity such a twisted character but still be rooting for him the most is wild.

Ily’s development in the second book is fantastic too. I was so annoyed with her in the first book but I’m glad to see she’s finally growing fangs of her own.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

The eagerly anticipated Emerald Bruises was everything and more. The emotions that flow through your body whilst reading this is like the strongest drug. This book takes off where Ruby Tears left us, rocking in the corner, waiting Impatiently for our next fix. While Henri embraces his dark side, and for a time it all seems to be going great, then he reacts to a situation and exceeds all expectations. This book is amazing and I’m so excited for Sapphire Scars. I give this book 5 stars 🌟 even though it’s worth so many more.

[Iskra Dimitrova · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t even function right now, but whatever Pepper puts in her books, I keep coming back for more.


More depravity, more darkness, more, everything.


Gosh, the range of emotions I felt through out this book!
Rage, pain, anguish, a pinch of relief and then complete evisceration of hope.


If you have no triggers, this one my friend is for you.
10/10 recommend

I love Henri & Ily = their journey continues to pull and push my heart, my mind, my boundaries of comfort, in the best possible way.


The belief of light at the end of the tunnel is your biggest foe.

[Nance · Rating 4 out of 5]

So so dark! Keeps you on your toes! I would rate it 5 stars, but it’s just so difficult to read at times. Poor Ily, and the other “jewels” that suffer so. Peter, Rachel, Corinne, Kirk, and the other 25 slaves that have such horribly abusive masters. This second book was even more violent and degrading the first. Glad that the other two books are not out yet so I can catch my breath. When reading dark romance and it’s a series, I sometimes need a break. This is an excellent series that’s very addicting, but the darkness is all too consuming. I’ll visit the”jewels” again when the last two books in the series are released…