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The Sacrifice #2
El penitente (El sacrificio nº 2)
Un destino cruel. Dos almas condenadas. Un amor imposible.
Sabía que él me había elegido antes de que llegase a nuestra puerta la noche del diezmo. Llevo la marca que me haría suya.
Fue mi antepasada quien murmuró las palabras que nos unieron, y su dios demonio el que prometió protegerlos a cambio de sangre.
Mi sangre.
Estaba preparada para ser ese sacrificio si eso mantenía a mi familia a salvo.
¿Amar a Azrael? Ese pensamiento nunca cruzó mi mente. Era y por siempre sería mi enemigo.
Él no es el único monstruo que me acecha, aunque, de alguna manera, es en los brazos de Azrael donde me siento más segura.
Pero debo tener cuidado con él. Tengo que proteger mi corazón porque si no lo hago, con toda seguridad, me destruirá.
Sabía que él me había elegido antes de que llegase a nuestra puerta la noche del diezmo. Llevo la marca que me haría suya.
Fue mi antepasada quien murmuró las palabras que nos unieron, y su dios demonio el que prometió protegerlos a cambio de sangre.
Mi sangre.
Estaba preparada para ser ese sacrificio si eso mantenía a mi familia a salvo.
¿Amar a Azrael? Ese pensamiento nunca cruzó mi mente. Era y por siempre sería mi enemigo.
Él no es el único monstruo que me acecha, aunque, de alguna manera, es en los brazos de Azrael donde me siento más segura.
Pero debo tener cuidado con él. Tengo que proteger mi corazón porque si no lo hago, con toda seguridad, me destruirá.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2023
168 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
About the author
Natasha Knight
103 books5,255 followersNatasha Knight is the USA Today Bestselling author of Romantic Suspense and Dark Romance Novels. She has sold over a million books and is translated into six languages. She currently lives in The Netherlands with her husband and two daughters and when she’s not writing, she’s walking in the woods listening to a book, sitting in a corner reading or off exploring the world as often as she can get away.
Write Natasha here:
natasha@natasha-knight.com
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Write Natasha here:
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Check out her books here:
https://natasha-knight.com
Sign up for her newsletter here:
https://bit.ly/3heleGN
Connect with her here:
Facebook Page→ http://bit.ly/29q3s4b
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
September 1, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (ARC)
''The Sacrifice will be made. Blood will be shed.''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Mention of loss of loved ones
- Mention of su*cide
- Multilation
- Attempted s*xual assault
- Violence/d*ath
- Illness
- HEA
We finally get the conclusion to Willow and Azrael's story!
All the mysteries and secrets have been revealed and I will say I was 99% right about all my theories back in book 1.
Despite having the correct theories, it was still a roller coaster of emotions getting through this book. Azrael proved himself to me even more so in this one, he truly had changed from his behavior and Willow was the one who needed more time. I appreciated how he had finally seen the light about so many lies he was fed and no longer let it dictate him.
The betrayals were not shocking, but I swear so many of these side characters were mentally unhinged beyond belief. Nobody and I mean nobody wanted them to be wiped out more than me while I was reading this ARC.
Was I satisfied with how some people were ''unlived''? Yes and no, you'll understand more once you read it.
This duet had certain elements of paranormal placed inside it, not that this a paranormal story but the characters beliefs were a massive part of their persona.
I am hoping Willow's sister gets her own book as the events from her POV are still a mystery and I would love to see what happened to her.
''The Sacrifice will be made. Blood will be shed.''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Mention of loss of loved ones
- Mention of su*cide
- Multilation
- Attempted s*xual assault
- Violence/d*ath
- Illness
- HEA
We finally get the conclusion to Willow and Azrael's story!
All the mysteries and secrets have been revealed and I will say I was 99% right about all my theories back in book 1.
Despite having the correct theories, it was still a roller coaster of emotions getting through this book. Azrael proved himself to me even more so in this one, he truly had changed from his behavior and Willow was the one who needed more time. I appreciated how he had finally seen the light about so many lies he was fed and no longer let it dictate him.
The betrayals were not shocking, but I swear so many of these side characters were mentally unhinged beyond belief. Nobody and I mean nobody wanted them to be wiped out more than me while I was reading this ARC.
Was I satisfied with how some people were ''unlived''? Yes and no, you'll understand more once you read it.
This duet had certain elements of paranormal placed inside it, not that this a paranormal story but the characters beliefs were a massive part of their persona.
I am hoping Willow's sister gets her own book as the events from her POV are still a mystery and I would love to see what happened to her.
October 5, 2023
The Penitent picks up where The Tithing ended, with Willow, Raven, and Bec having been kidnapped by Caleb.
In this gripping conclusion, we find Azrael and Willow navigating the curse, familial expectations, and an undeniable connection.
I’m afraid to say too much because I don’t want to give anything away.
What I can tell you is this duet will be a 2023 favorite. With its fast pace and scorching chemistry, there’s not a moment to relax whilst reading. There’s a perfect combination of suspense with mildly paranormal elements that only added to the drama and mystery. I loved the characters, including the Delacroix and Wildblood siblings. I really hope we visit these families again ASAP!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😩🥺🤬🥵😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Romantic Suspense
✨ Tropes: Alphahole, Arranged Marriage, Body Betrayal, Enemies-to-Lovers, Family Saga, Feisty H, Forced Proximity, Rich AF, Rival Families, Secret Society, Touch-Her-and-💀
💋 Kinks: n/a
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: Attempted SA (Not by H), UnaIiving, VìoIençe, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: The Penitent is the conclusion to The Sacrifice duet. This series must be read in order.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
In this gripping conclusion, we find Azrael and Willow navigating the curse, familial expectations, and an undeniable connection.
I’m afraid to say too much because I don’t want to give anything away.
What I can tell you is this duet will be a 2023 favorite. With its fast pace and scorching chemistry, there’s not a moment to relax whilst reading. There’s a perfect combination of suspense with mildly paranormal elements that only added to the drama and mystery. I loved the characters, including the Delacroix and Wildblood siblings. I really hope we visit these families again ASAP!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: 🖤
Heat: 🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😩🥺🤬🥵😍
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Romantic Suspense
✨ Tropes: Alphahole, Arranged Marriage, Body Betrayal, Enemies-to-Lovers, Family Saga, Feisty H, Forced Proximity, Rich AF, Rival Families, Secret Society, Touch-Her-and-💀
💋 Kinks: n/a
⚠️ Warning: This steamy read will leave your panties wet and reaching for BOB.
🚩 Safety Squad: Attempted SA (Not by H), UnaIiving, VìoIençe, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: The Penitent is the conclusion to The Sacrifice duet. This series must be read in order.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
November 30, 2023
4 ✨ I really enjoyed this series. I hope we get a book about the heroines sister.
March 7, 2024
Outstanding writing and plot!!!!And the characters were fucking amazing!!!!
Both The Tithing and The Penitent were excellent and the the writing team of Natasha Knight and A.Zavarelli's words flowed flawlessly and I couldnt tell who wrote what!!! They are both simply amazing writers but together they created a story that was fast paced and had so much angst and emotion that at times it felt like a carnival ride!!! One minute I hated the beastly Azrael Delacroix and his ancestors who had been cursed by a witch they abused and hung for witchcraft. And other times like Willow Wildblood I wanted to love him and take away all his suffering!! Azrael was willing to except Willow as his to honor the tithing and to save not only his sister from dying but his whole family from the curse, but knowing he'll have to kill her and sacrifice her to the fallen angel Shemhazai doesn't sit well and when he begins to fall in love with Willow Wildblood the evil that lives on the property will take matters into their own hands and even if it means killing the miracle baby that Willow is carrying! the Tithing will be made in full! I loved the whole gothic romance vibe with the mix of secret society storyline and the complexity of both lead characters and secondary. I haven't read a lot of witch themed romances because its not my thing usually but not only did the lovely feisty and strong and defiant Willow Wildblood intrigued me but Raven and her other sister's and mom and especially grandmother were unforgettable characters! And then theirs Azrael!!! Dark and dangerous but sinfully handsome and would put any fallen angel to shame!!! Once he got out from under his grandmothers influence and started seeing what was really going on he was quite magnificent!! This book had plenty of steamy sex scenes to keep me thoroughly entertained! I very rarely go from one book right into the next because my tbr is so backed up!😂 But I didn't give a damn! Yes! I! Was!! totally hooked!! I definitely will be checking out past books from the Imperium Valens Invictum series!!! They sound fabulous! Also I want to mention that the whole interaction between Willow's black cat Fiona or as Azrael secretly called her asshole, had me laughing my ass off!! The whole watching Azrael from the upstairs window, so typical cat! And sitting on his chest staring at him like "Who the fuck are you!" just goes to show that cats don't give a shit who you are!! Even if your descended from a fallen angel turned demon!😂Until next time Luv's😉💋
P.S. my new kink is..... To have a guy call me Little Witch😉 Azrael made it sound so fucking hot!😅
Both The Tithing and The Penitent were excellent and the the writing team of Natasha Knight and A.Zavarelli's words flowed flawlessly and I couldnt tell who wrote what!!! They are both simply amazing writers but together they created a story that was fast paced and had so much angst and emotion that at times it felt like a carnival ride!!! One minute I hated the beastly Azrael Delacroix and his ancestors who had been cursed by a witch they abused and hung for witchcraft. And other times like Willow Wildblood I wanted to love him and take away all his suffering!! Azrael was willing to except Willow as his to honor the tithing and to save not only his sister from dying but his whole family from the curse, but knowing he'll have to kill her and sacrifice her to the fallen angel Shemhazai doesn't sit well and when he begins to fall in love with Willow Wildblood the evil that lives on the property will take matters into their own hands and even if it means killing the miracle baby that Willow is carrying! the Tithing will be made in full! I loved the whole gothic romance vibe with the mix of secret society storyline and the complexity of both lead characters and secondary. I haven't read a lot of witch themed romances because its not my thing usually but not only did the lovely feisty and strong and defiant Willow Wildblood intrigued me but Raven and her other sister's and mom and especially grandmother were unforgettable characters! And then theirs Azrael!!! Dark and dangerous but sinfully handsome and would put any fallen angel to shame!!! Once he got out from under his grandmothers influence and started seeing what was really going on he was quite magnificent!! This book had plenty of steamy sex scenes to keep me thoroughly entertained! I very rarely go from one book right into the next because my tbr is so backed up!😂 But I didn't give a damn! Yes! I! Was!! totally hooked!! I definitely will be checking out past books from the Imperium Valens Invictum series!!! They sound fabulous! Also I want to mention that the whole interaction between Willow's black cat Fiona or as Azrael secretly called her asshole, had me laughing my ass off!! The whole watching Azrael from the upstairs window, so typical cat! And sitting on his chest staring at him like "Who the fuck are you!" just goes to show that cats don't give a shit who you are!! Even if your descended from a fallen angel turned demon!😂Until next time Luv's😉💋
P.S. my new kink is..... To have a guy call me Little Witch😉 Azrael made it sound so fucking hot!😅
October 2, 2023
This is the conclusion to this duet and oh my gosh, it was electric!
This picks up immediately where book one ends and everything from that page onward is fast paced and high octane. With one thing after another being revealed and issues being dealt with, Willow and Azrael are caught up in a plot that had me gripping my e-reader and turning pages as quickly as possible.
I was a huge fan of Willow in book one, and still am, but Azrael really took center stage for me this go around as he struggles to accept things he was initially blind to. His move towards change was an emotional ride for me. I loved how protective he was over Willow even as he questioned the actions that had taken place around him.
This is such a unique, intensely satisfying storyline with characters that captured my attention and then my heart. The conclusion, like the rest of the book, was extraordinary and satisfying.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
This picks up immediately where book one ends and everything from that page onward is fast paced and high octane. With one thing after another being revealed and issues being dealt with, Willow and Azrael are caught up in a plot that had me gripping my e-reader and turning pages as quickly as possible.
I was a huge fan of Willow in book one, and still am, but Azrael really took center stage for me this go around as he struggles to accept things he was initially blind to. His move towards change was an emotional ride for me. I loved how protective he was over Willow even as he questioned the actions that had taken place around him.
This is such a unique, intensely satisfying storyline with characters that captured my attention and then my heart. The conclusion, like the rest of the book, was extraordinary and satisfying.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
August 21, 2024
they’re #MINE. none of you will ever get them the way i do.
September 25, 2023
The Penitent by Natasha Knight and A Zavarelli is the second installment in the Sacrifice Duet, and cannot be read as a stand-alone. If you haven't read The Tithing, please go read that book first before reading The Penitent.
I frequently struggle with how to write spoiler-free reviews when reviewing a second or subsequent book in a series, and this book is no different. I will keep this review short, sweet and to the point.
I was very happy with Azrael's character growth in this book. Where I was unsure of how I felt about him in The Tithing, I absolutely loved him in The Penitent, even if Willow, the female protagonist, still steals the show.
There were a few things I suspected would happen in this book, and I was right about those things. However, that didn't prevent me from binging this book in under 24 hours. I also didn't expect the storyline to take a few turns that it did, and I really enjoyed reading this book from start to finish.
I thought that the ending was absolutely perfect for these two characters. I honestly could not be happier with how Natasha Knight and A Zavarelli wrapped this duet up. If you like dark romances, secret societies and stories with ominious vibes, The Sacrifice Duet is not to be missed!
I frequently struggle with how to write spoiler-free reviews when reviewing a second or subsequent book in a series, and this book is no different. I will keep this review short, sweet and to the point.
I was very happy with Azrael's character growth in this book. Where I was unsure of how I felt about him in The Tithing, I absolutely loved him in The Penitent, even if Willow, the female protagonist, still steals the show.
There were a few things I suspected would happen in this book, and I was right about those things. However, that didn't prevent me from binging this book in under 24 hours. I also didn't expect the storyline to take a few turns that it did, and I really enjoyed reading this book from start to finish.
I thought that the ending was absolutely perfect for these two characters. I honestly could not be happier with how Natasha Knight and A Zavarelli wrapped this duet up. If you like dark romances, secret societies and stories with ominious vibes, The Sacrifice Duet is not to be missed!
October 2, 2023
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'm so glad the wait between the first book and this wasn't longer. After finishing the first I could not wait for this. And it did not dissapoint.
The story had me glued to my phone from the moment I started. I actually read 6 hours of this in one day which I never do. I usually read half that. I just couldn't put this down. A Zavarelli and Natasha Knight together are just something special.
I loved Azrael so much. He realized his feelings for Willow and he did not waver in his affection even if Willow doubted him and let's be honest how could she not.
Salome might go down as one of my most hated villains ever. My god do I hate her. Almost as much as I hate Caleb Church.
I'm a little sad this is a duet and not a trilogy cause I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters and this story. I wish it could continue a little longer.
This duet easily goes down as one of the best things I've read this year. Easily.
I'm so glad the wait between the first book and this wasn't longer. After finishing the first I could not wait for this. And it did not dissapoint.
The story had me glued to my phone from the moment I started. I actually read 6 hours of this in one day which I never do. I usually read half that. I just couldn't put this down. A Zavarelli and Natasha Knight together are just something special.
I loved Azrael so much. He realized his feelings for Willow and he did not waver in his affection even if Willow doubted him and let's be honest how could she not.
Salome might go down as one of my most hated villains ever. My god do I hate her. Almost as much as I hate Caleb Church.
I'm a little sad this is a duet and not a trilogy cause I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters and this story. I wish it could continue a little longer.
This duet easily goes down as one of the best things I've read this year. Easily.
October 19, 2024
Gran final. Mucha acción, intriga y todo lo que esperábamos para cerrar este dúo de libros.
Para mi gusto le ha faltado un poco de oscuridad y algunas cosas han sido previsibles, lo que le quita esa estrella... aunque eso no signifique que no sea un libro que volveré a leer, porque lo es. Tampoco significa que sea un libro apto para sensibles, como el anterior, debes tener cuidado con las advertencias.
Fanatismo, religión, maldiciones.... diferentes temas a los habituales que escriben Knight y Zavarelli y que te van a gustar. Si has leído la serie del Legado Oscuro, estos también te van a gustar y, si no lo has leído, pues que sean los siguientes.
Para mi gusto le ha faltado un poco de oscuridad y algunas cosas han sido previsibles, lo que le quita esa estrella... aunque eso no signifique que no sea un libro que volveré a leer, porque lo es. Tampoco significa que sea un libro apto para sensibles, como el anterior, debes tener cuidado con las advertencias.
Fanatismo, religión, maldiciones.... diferentes temas a los habituales que escriben Knight y Zavarelli y que te van a gustar. Si has leído la serie del Legado Oscuro, estos también te van a gustar y, si no lo has leído, pues que sean los siguientes.
October 23, 2023
I LOVE THIS DUET😩🤌🏼
This one is totally safe. No ow/om drama. No separation. Hea with a cute lil daughter 😭💗
Tw - attempted SA on h (not by H), violence, mentions of mutilation and r@pe
This one is totally safe. No ow/om drama. No separation. Hea with a cute lil daughter 😭💗
Tw - attempted SA on h (not by H), violence, mentions of mutilation and r@pe
October 9, 2023
I was less enthused by the second half. It felt rushed and messy and 🙄
This could also be influenced by the fact that I finished this on a 24 hr shift and was having a bad day 🤷🏻♀️
This could also be influenced by the fact that I finished this on a 24 hr shift and was having a bad day 🤷🏻♀️
October 5, 2023
The Penitent is the second book in The Sacrifice Duet.
Willow is both terrified and drawn to Azrael.
She knows that he is dangerous, but she also feels safe in his arms, leading to a whole lot of conflict and drama.
This book obviously answered all the questions left I remained in book one.
Willow and Azaraels character development was on point throughout this book.
Pact with emotions, action, gore and secrets, im so happy for the ending.
Overall this was a brilliant and engaging duet and look forward to more of Natasha and A. Zavarellis work.
Willow is both terrified and drawn to Azrael.
She knows that he is dangerous, but she also feels safe in his arms, leading to a whole lot of conflict and drama.
This book obviously answered all the questions left I remained in book one.
Willow and Azaraels character development was on point throughout this book.
Pact with emotions, action, gore and secrets, im so happy for the ending.
Overall this was a brilliant and engaging duet and look forward to more of Natasha and A. Zavarellis work.
October 2, 2023
***4,5 "My little Witch!!!" stars***
"Brace your self, witch. The Tithe will be paid."
I was anticipating Willow and Azrael's story so much, especially after the way the first part had left us...
Willow was in danger and she wasn't the only one... Azrael had to save his wife, not only by a new enemy, but for the sacrifice that is awaiting of him!!!
As much as he wants to refuse that Willow had gotten under his skin, he can not become her penitent and to take her life in the name of a curse, even though there is pressure upon his shoulders if he wants to save his own family!!!
"What could be worse for the Delacroix family than to have one of their own fall for a Wildblood?"
Willow can not trust her husband, not after what she had learned for his ancestors... The cruel fate that awaits her in the hands of her husband is something that is holding her back, even though her heart doesn't want to follow her mind's lead!!!
Is there a hope for these two when everything is against them???
Can a curse so old to be reversed and for these two to live their happily ever after???
"He brought me into his home, life, and bed... and made me feel things. Things I swore I'd never feel."
I have loved this duet very much!!! I had my theories while I was reading the first part, but even though I was right about many things, I liked the way that this duo of authors gave us redemption!!!
The atmosphere in here was out of this world, full of paranormal elements and witchcraft...
The Society element was just a small bonus!!!
Willow and Azrael's love was one in a lifetime and the obstacles that they had to bypass in order to be together were inpenetrable!!!
"The curse is too powerful, that it may never be broken... that even if he's chosen not to sacrifice me, it doesn't mean our story won't end in tragedy."
You know how much I love this duo and their Society world...
Every new story in this world is so different from the previous one and I love that!!!
And now, I have become a little bit obsessed with the Wildblood sisters and especially, Raven.... I would love to see more of her and Emmanuel!!! There is something great between them and I want to witness it firsthand!!!
And of course, I would love to get some glimpses from my beloved ones, Willow and Azrael, for once again!!!
"You were meant to be mine..."
**I received an ARc for the exchange of an honest review**
"Brace your self, witch. The Tithe will be paid."
I was anticipating Willow and Azrael's story so much, especially after the way the first part had left us...
Willow was in danger and she wasn't the only one... Azrael had to save his wife, not only by a new enemy, but for the sacrifice that is awaiting of him!!!
As much as he wants to refuse that Willow had gotten under his skin, he can not become her penitent and to take her life in the name of a curse, even though there is pressure upon his shoulders if he wants to save his own family!!!
"What could be worse for the Delacroix family than to have one of their own fall for a Wildblood?"
Willow can not trust her husband, not after what she had learned for his ancestors... The cruel fate that awaits her in the hands of her husband is something that is holding her back, even though her heart doesn't want to follow her mind's lead!!!
Is there a hope for these two when everything is against them???
Can a curse so old to be reversed and for these two to live their happily ever after???
"He brought me into his home, life, and bed... and made me feel things. Things I swore I'd never feel."
I have loved this duet very much!!! I had my theories while I was reading the first part, but even though I was right about many things, I liked the way that this duo of authors gave us redemption!!!
The atmosphere in here was out of this world, full of paranormal elements and witchcraft...
The Society element was just a small bonus!!!
Willow and Azrael's love was one in a lifetime and the obstacles that they had to bypass in order to be together were inpenetrable!!!
"The curse is too powerful, that it may never be broken... that even if he's chosen not to sacrifice me, it doesn't mean our story won't end in tragedy."
You know how much I love this duo and their Society world...
Every new story in this world is so different from the previous one and I love that!!!
And now, I have become a little bit obsessed with the Wildblood sisters and especially, Raven.... I would love to see more of her and Emmanuel!!! There is something great between them and I want to witness it firsthand!!!
And of course, I would love to get some glimpses from my beloved ones, Willow and Azrael, for once again!!!
"You were meant to be mine..."
**I received an ARc for the exchange of an honest review**
March 30, 2024
I honestly didn’t have the stomach to comprehend the first few chapters. I felt so hopeless and even cried for Willow for what she had to go through in those few chapters in the beginning. It truly captures the horror of how people can turn a blind eye and do something that horrific for some beliefs.
The Penitent unfolds into something more than an old curse in a modern world. While the first book has a very ‘cult-y’ vibe, this book is much more action-packed. More threats coming in from what’s left behind in the first book, but one thing is clearer and my suspicion was right. Honestly, Salomè getting more and more annoyed about the sacrifice is the one that sold it off, and I don’t get why the authors write her that way because it’s honestly so easy to pick it up. BUT, while I did pick that up, I did NOT catch on to what was coming near the end, though it makes perfect sense. I won't say that the romance is completely off in this (there was still some smut obv), but it's more shadowed by the other more serious plot. And lastly, I think it's way better to read this book straight away after The Tithing if you want to end the suffering of reading this duology quickly :).
The Penitent unfolds into something more than an old curse in a modern world. While the first book has a very ‘cult-y’ vibe, this book is much more action-packed. More threats coming in from what’s left behind in the first book, but one thing is clearer and my suspicion was right. Honestly, Salomè getting more and more annoyed about the sacrifice is the one that sold it off, and I don’t get why the authors write her that way because it’s honestly so easy to pick it up. BUT, while I did pick that up, I did NOT catch on to what was coming near the end, though it makes perfect sense. I won't say that the romance is completely off in this (there was still some smut obv), but it's more shadowed by the other more serious plot. And lastly, I think it's way better to read this book straight away after The Tithing if you want to end the suffering of reading this duology quickly :).
June 3, 2025
4 solid stars!
I continue to love the dark, dangerous world of The Society that these authors have built. This particular duet added a mystical twist that set it apart from the others.
Could an ancient curse really be broken? Was Azrael and Willow’s love doomed from the start? Those questions drive the heart of this story, and the payoff was worth it. Both leads were easy to root for, and the plot brought a nice mix of suspense, magic, and emotion.
Also… can we please get Emmanuel and Raven’s book? The chemistry, the tension—it’s all there, simmering under the surface. Don’t leave us hanging, authors!
I continue to love the dark, dangerous world of The Society that these authors have built. This particular duet added a mystical twist that set it apart from the others.
Could an ancient curse really be broken? Was Azrael and Willow’s love doomed from the start? Those questions drive the heart of this story, and the payoff was worth it. Both leads were easy to root for, and the plot brought a nice mix of suspense, magic, and emotion.
Also… can we please get Emmanuel and Raven’s book? The chemistry, the tension—it’s all there, simmering under the surface. Don’t leave us hanging, authors!
October 24, 2023
Oh what a twist, heart pounding , lovely conclusion to Willow and Azrael story. I absolutely love love Willow and her strength. The things she went through will have your heart torn. The suspense in this story kept me on my toes and it's been a minute that one has. All the things I want to say will give to much away. I'm so hoping these two ladies are writing Raven and Emmanuel story because I so want to know so bad what they been up to.
May 30, 2024
3.5⭐ I was expecting more plot twists but nvm
September 21, 2024
not much about the background story and it turned stale but i liked the relationship dynamics between the main characters and that’s enough since i was craving for exactly that.
September 23, 2023
The Penitent❤️🩹
Willow and Azrael’s families have been “cursed” through the generations, ever since one of Willow’s ancestors cursed them. However, dangers appear to be coming at them from all angles and they have done the one thing it appears others haven’t in the past…fallen in love😳 Will this be their downfall or will they finally prevail and break the curse upon both families?
Loved this story and its epic conclusion❣️Bringing these two authors together for stories is something else entirely and the stories they tell soooo amazing. Hopefully Raven and Emmanuel will find a way to have their HEA🙃 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❤️
Willow and Azrael’s families have been “cursed” through the generations, ever since one of Willow’s ancestors cursed them. However, dangers appear to be coming at them from all angles and they have done the one thing it appears others haven’t in the past…fallen in love😳 Will this be their downfall or will they finally prevail and break the curse upon both families?
Loved this story and its epic conclusion❣️Bringing these two authors together for stories is something else entirely and the stories they tell soooo amazing. Hopefully Raven and Emmanuel will find a way to have their HEA🙃 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❤️
November 24, 2023
loved it, love them together 😍
Beautiful conclusion of the duet, now i want more, i need Emmanuel and Raven's book ASAP, i hope nothing that bad happened to her tho, i hope not, otherwise i will not read her book if it we will ever get one
Beautiful conclusion of the duet, now i want more, i need Emmanuel and Raven's book ASAP, i hope nothing that bad happened to her tho, i hope not, otherwise i will not read her book if it we will ever get one
October 7, 2023
Sigh!
Another great story by a zaverelli and Natasha knight. Thank you for the journey of Asreal and willow and their dark love story. Maybe Emmanuel and Raven will be next just a suggestion.
Another great story by a zaverelli and Natasha knight. Thank you for the journey of Asreal and willow and their dark love story. Maybe Emmanuel and Raven will be next just a suggestion.
June 25, 2024
Karin -per RFS
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Siamo giunte all’ultimo capitolo della dilogia Il Sacrificio e già ho da sindacare, perché dopo questo gioiellino o le due autrici mi tirano fuori il seguito con Emmanuel e Raven, uno spin off col fratello maggiore andato a miglior vita e uno con le arti magiche di Bec, o faccio scatenare fulmini e saette! Capisco che non posso essere io a poter decidere, però mie care Knight e Zavarelli, non potete mica creare dipendenza e curiosità al lettore e lasciarlo così in brache di tela!
Dopo la mia sfuriata, fuori luogo mi rendo conto, iniziamo la recensione.
Come sicuramente vi ricorderete eravamo rimaste con un cliffhanger da paura: Willow, Raven e Bec sono state rapite proprio fuori dalla fortezza di Azrael, quando ormai pensavano di aver aggirato l’occhio demoniaco di Salomè.
Quella perfida donna è un perfetto villain, perché nonostante abbia la forza fisica di una formica è in grado di scombinare mezzo mondo. Ha creato con le sue fissazioni e meccanismi di tortura fisica e psicologica, un disastro nella famiglia Delacroix. Finché le mani le reggevano e i nipoti erano piccoli li ha picchiati a sangue, niente tiene in pugno come la paura dicevano alcuni scellerati, e lei ha saputo fare buon uso di quella fiducia mal riposta dei suoi ragazzi. Non ha risparmiato nemmeno Bec, o che dolce nonnina amorevole. Qui ci voleva la Regina di cuori e il suo “Tagliatele la testaaaaaaa!”.
Se nel primo volume della serie, tutto era incentrato su Willow e Azrael e sulla loro storia che man mano ha sciolto i nodi e i segreti delle rispettive famiglie, facendo venire a galla anche le verità del libro, ne Il Penitente cambia radicalmente la visione. Willow era ovviamente l’offerta ma chi dovrà subire la punizione per uscire da questo dramma? Il destino dovrà compiersi per forza? Se da un lato abbiamo una Willow che nemmeno nelle scene più cruente si arrende, dall’altro c’è un Azrael conscio del suo percorso che troverà sempre il modo per difendere la sua famiglia… forse!Il mistero aumenta, così come le sfumature thriller alimentano la suspense grazie ai Discepoli, un gruppo di invasati alla ricerca di streghe da mettere a ferro e fuoco, dove il più macabro e pazzo di tutti è Caleb Church. Quell’uomo non ha mai dimenticato Willow e tenterà in ogni modo di vendicarsi.
Verità svelate di un passato ritornato che fanno vacillare la fiducia, per quanto i sentimenti siano forti. Conosciamo meglio la personalità di Emmanuel e la sua attrazione per Raven (per quanto sia tutto velato, sei lì che aspetti sempre di saperne di più, urge nuovo libro). Alcune svolte della narrazione possono sembrare cliché triti e ritriti, lo dico perché inizialmente l’ho pensato anche io, ma in seguito ci danno una chiave di lettura disarmante; davvero non me lo aspettavo.
Il tema dell’amore e del sentirsi famiglia, l’appartenenza, la consacrazione del bene contro il male esce fuori all’ennesima potenza e, per quanto sia un dark romance, non ci manca il lieto fine. Lo preannuncio perché ci sono persone, come me, che senza saperlo non andrebbero a leggersi il romanzo e perderebbero davvero tanto. Il Penitente mi è piaciuto forse più del primo volume; un po’ mi ero già affezionata ai personaggi ma soprattutto ho amato la loro evoluzione costante in seguito agli eventi, infatti, non c’è assolutamente il rischio di sentirli statici nella narrazione. Questo, secondo me, dà quel valore aggiunto alla penna di due autrici di successo che hanno messo in piedi una lettura che amerete come me… manca sempre quel pizzico di magia in più, che però qui è compensato dalle note che si dipingono di giallo. Che dirvi se non, buona lettura!
.
Siamo giunte all’ultimo capitolo della dilogia Il Sacrificio e già ho da sindacare, perché dopo questo gioiellino o le due autrici mi tirano fuori il seguito con Emmanuel e Raven, uno spin off col fratello maggiore andato a miglior vita e uno con le arti magiche di Bec, o faccio scatenare fulmini e saette! Capisco che non posso essere io a poter decidere, però mie care Knight e Zavarelli, non potete mica creare dipendenza e curiosità al lettore e lasciarlo così in brache di tela!
Dopo la mia sfuriata, fuori luogo mi rendo conto, iniziamo la recensione.
Come sicuramente vi ricorderete eravamo rimaste con un cliffhanger da paura: Willow, Raven e Bec sono state rapite proprio fuori dalla fortezza di Azrael, quando ormai pensavano di aver aggirato l’occhio demoniaco di Salomè.
Quella perfida donna è un perfetto villain, perché nonostante abbia la forza fisica di una formica è in grado di scombinare mezzo mondo. Ha creato con le sue fissazioni e meccanismi di tortura fisica e psicologica, un disastro nella famiglia Delacroix. Finché le mani le reggevano e i nipoti erano piccoli li ha picchiati a sangue, niente tiene in pugno come la paura dicevano alcuni scellerati, e lei ha saputo fare buon uso di quella fiducia mal riposta dei suoi ragazzi. Non ha risparmiato nemmeno Bec, o che dolce nonnina amorevole. Qui ci voleva la Regina di cuori e il suo “Tagliatele la testaaaaaaa!”.
Se nel primo volume della serie, tutto era incentrato su Willow e Azrael e sulla loro storia che man mano ha sciolto i nodi e i segreti delle rispettive famiglie, facendo venire a galla anche le verità del libro, ne Il Penitente cambia radicalmente la visione. Willow era ovviamente l’offerta ma chi dovrà subire la punizione per uscire da questo dramma? Il destino dovrà compiersi per forza? Se da un lato abbiamo una Willow che nemmeno nelle scene più cruente si arrende, dall’altro c’è un Azrael conscio del suo percorso che troverà sempre il modo per difendere la sua famiglia… forse!Il mistero aumenta, così come le sfumature thriller alimentano la suspense grazie ai Discepoli, un gruppo di invasati alla ricerca di streghe da mettere a ferro e fuoco, dove il più macabro e pazzo di tutti è Caleb Church. Quell’uomo non ha mai dimenticato Willow e tenterà in ogni modo di vendicarsi.
Verità svelate di un passato ritornato che fanno vacillare la fiducia, per quanto i sentimenti siano forti. Conosciamo meglio la personalità di Emmanuel e la sua attrazione per Raven (per quanto sia tutto velato, sei lì che aspetti sempre di saperne di più, urge nuovo libro). Alcune svolte della narrazione possono sembrare cliché triti e ritriti, lo dico perché inizialmente l’ho pensato anche io, ma in seguito ci danno una chiave di lettura disarmante; davvero non me lo aspettavo.
Il tema dell’amore e del sentirsi famiglia, l’appartenenza, la consacrazione del bene contro il male esce fuori all’ennesima potenza e, per quanto sia un dark romance, non ci manca il lieto fine. Lo preannuncio perché ci sono persone, come me, che senza saperlo non andrebbero a leggersi il romanzo e perderebbero davvero tanto. Il Penitente mi è piaciuto forse più del primo volume; un po’ mi ero già affezionata ai personaggi ma soprattutto ho amato la loro evoluzione costante in seguito agli eventi, infatti, non c’è assolutamente il rischio di sentirli statici nella narrazione. Questo, secondo me, dà quel valore aggiunto alla penna di due autrici di successo che hanno messo in piedi una lettura che amerete come me… manca sempre quel pizzico di magia in più, che però qui è compensato dalle note che si dipingono di giallo. Che dirvi se non, buona lettura!
October 9, 2023
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4.5 / 5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Hero : Azarael
Heroine : Willow
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 5/10
Triggers Involved : Kidnapping, Torture , Past trauma , Betrayal
Plot Summary :
Willow knew that there was no happy ending for her and Azarael , but a part of her hoped that maybe this time things would be different. Until she got to know the truth. Her husband might just be the one person who would ruin her completely.
Azarael knows that he might have to make some difficult choices but it is all for his sister and his family. What he didn't expect was for the Witch to steal his heart. Willow was the one person he loved and now she has been captured. He has to find her before her enemies break her forever.
Overall Opinion :
Willow and Azrael are back ! I have been waiting not so patiently after that cliffhanger and have been losing my mind. It's so good to be back to the Society world by my favourite author duo! Natasha and Ashleigh never disappoint.
Azarael and Willow have an amazing tale of so much pain and suffering. I love how it all turned out to be and the plotline was new and great as well . Another amazing thing was the side plot that the authors have started and I think that we might have more books from this world! I am so excited for thes!
Definitely recommending this one to all the dark romance loving people out there!!
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January 2, 2024
4 ✨ for making such an addictive book. It's been a long time since I found a binge worthy book and this was really it.
This is a combined review for both the parts of the series. Not a standalone. The first part ends at a cliffhanger and the second book(this) starts right from the very moment the last book ends at. And I am glad it didn't have any time jump.
🌙 Magical Paranormal Mystery Action packed story with the main plot of love and romance🤍
🌙 Witch marries a fallen angel(?)💜
🌙 Enemies to lovers
🌙 Arranged marriage
🌙 Enemies and found family
🌙 Rudimentary traditions
🌙 Evil mother in law
🌙 Plot that keeps you on edge
🌙 MCs courting to protect their families
🌙 Soulmates
🌙 Love that can conquer all the darkness
🌙 Emotional ride
The characters were so beautifully created. Willow, h, was just amazing. Head Strong. Empathetic and so lovable 💙. What's not to love about a character that goes by their heart and intuition. Her struggles to protect her family and sacrifice herself for it, not being able to trust the H at first....all of it was so justified that there was no point but to root for her throughout the book even when some of her decisions landed her in some dangerous situations.
Azrael, H was just as conflicted as the h. It takes time for his character to grow on you at least in comparison to the h but definitely he has a good character arc and good growth. I wasn't really into the H by the end of the 1st part because of how he treated the h. Locking her in a room🙄 like really and then wanting her to believe that he will protect her. He definitely needed to trust her more so she could trust him back. The 2nd book though he grew on me slowly and by the end of the book you can see how much he respects her. Couldn't blame him completely though considering how even he had conflicting feelings for everything around him.
We also have really interesting side characters and side plots that just adds more to the mystery atmosphere.
Addictive read. Safe. HEA🩷
This is a combined review for both the parts of the series. Not a standalone. The first part ends at a cliffhanger and the second book(this) starts right from the very moment the last book ends at. And I am glad it didn't have any time jump.
🌙 Magical Paranormal Mystery Action packed story with the main plot of love and romance🤍
🌙 Witch marries a fallen angel(?)💜
🌙 Enemies to lovers
🌙 Arranged marriage
🌙 Enemies and found family
🌙 Rudimentary traditions
🌙 Evil mother in law
🌙 Plot that keeps you on edge
🌙 MCs courting to protect their families
🌙 Soulmates
🌙 Love that can conquer all the darkness
🌙 Emotional ride
The characters were so beautifully created. Willow, h, was just amazing. Head Strong. Empathetic and so lovable 💙. What's not to love about a character that goes by their heart and intuition. Her struggles to protect her family and sacrifice herself for it, not being able to trust the H at first....all of it was so justified that there was no point but to root for her throughout the book even when some of her decisions landed her in some dangerous situations.
Azrael, H was just as conflicted as the h. It takes time for his character to grow on you at least in comparison to the h but definitely he has a good character arc and good growth. I wasn't really into the H by the end of the 1st part because of how he treated the h. Locking her in a room🙄 like really and then wanting her to believe that he will protect her. He definitely needed to trust her more so she could trust him back. The 2nd book though he grew on me slowly and by the end of the book you can see how much he respects her. Couldn't blame him completely though considering how even he had conflicting feelings for everything around him.
We also have really interesting side characters and side plots that just adds more to the mystery atmosphere.
Addictive read. Safe. HEA🩷
September 22, 2023
It took me 4 hours to read this book. As soon as I got it on my kindle I took everything I had to do and set it aside.
Priorities right?
This was the perfect ending to Willow and Azrael’s tale.
It picked right after the tragic events at the end of The Tithe.
With Willow’s abduction, Azrael wastes no resources to find his wife before it is too late.
The stakes in this book were high, new players are introduced and revelations come to light. Azrael must choose between his duty and his devotion to his wife. What will he chose? Will he sacrifice Willow to break the curse?
I loved how everything flowed as the story progressed.
I might change this review tomorrow.
Thank you to Give Me Books PR for this eARC. I was checking my email constantly hoping this book would drop as soon as possible.
Priorities right?
This was the perfect ending to Willow and Azrael’s tale.
It picked right after the tragic events at the end of The Tithe.
With Willow’s abduction, Azrael wastes no resources to find his wife before it is too late.
The stakes in this book were high, new players are introduced and revelations come to light. Azrael must choose between his duty and his devotion to his wife. What will he chose? Will he sacrifice Willow to break the curse?
I loved how everything flowed as the story progressed.
I might change this review tomorrow.
Thank you to Give Me Books PR for this eARC. I was checking my email constantly hoping this book would drop as soon as possible.
October 3, 2023
Wow! that was an addictive and exhilarating conclusion to a fantastic duet.
These two authors always deliver the best stories, books that you can't put down and can't stop thinking about.
So much drama and suspense throughout, all the lies and secrets, twists and turns are revealed in the most spectacular way.
Azrael and Willow grow closer everyday, the curse keeps trying to drive them apart but their connection keeps growing stronger.
I loved the intensity between them, they have so much passion it was thrilling and explosive.
I was team Azrael and Willow from the beginning I needed them to break the curse and be together, they are perfect for each other.
I'm curious about Willow's sister and what exactly happened to her, hopefully we will get another story with a certain Delacroix too, fingers crossed.
These two authors always deliver the best stories, books that you can't put down and can't stop thinking about.
So much drama and suspense throughout, all the lies and secrets, twists and turns are revealed in the most spectacular way.
Azrael and Willow grow closer everyday, the curse keeps trying to drive them apart but their connection keeps growing stronger.
I loved the intensity between them, they have so much passion it was thrilling and explosive.
I was team Azrael and Willow from the beginning I needed them to break the curse and be together, they are perfect for each other.
I'm curious about Willow's sister and what exactly happened to her, hopefully we will get another story with a certain Delacroix too, fingers crossed.
September 21, 2023
Welcome to the witching hour! We pickup were that major cliffhanger left us in book one. Will Willow be able to break from the curse laid upon her family? Can Azrael Delacroix protect his wife and get to the bottom of what has happened within his own family? Get ready for this action packed mystery shrouded in Salem history and secret societies. I really enjoyed book 2 and how all the questions from book one unfolded. Azrael really cared for his “little witch” even though he was raised to hate them. Fans of witch lore and arranged marriage romances will enjoy this duet. Told in dual POV
September 25, 2023
* 4.5 stars *
I was so excited for Azrael and Willows conclusion and these authors didn’t disappoint! Willow and her sisters are seriously my favorite family, they are close and definitely some strong kick butt females. I love Azrael but really, he was just along for the ride while Willow took care of everything. No really, both main characters were great and I loved how they fought for each other throughout the entire thing… Azrael seemed to struggle a bit more with not believing a certain family member was evil but everyone wants to give family the benefit of the doubt. As with the first book, I loved the entire aspect of the Wildblood witches, the curse between families and not forget the cult of witch hunters… it was absolutely perfect for Halloween time! I am really hoping that Raven gets a book next, I didn’t think she would need her own story but I need to see how she moves on!
I was so excited for Azrael and Willows conclusion and these authors didn’t disappoint! Willow and her sisters are seriously my favorite family, they are close and definitely some strong kick butt females. I love Azrael but really, he was just along for the ride while Willow took care of everything. No really, both main characters were great and I loved how they fought for each other throughout the entire thing… Azrael seemed to struggle a bit more with not believing a certain family member was evil but everyone wants to give family the benefit of the doubt. As with the first book, I loved the entire aspect of the Wildblood witches, the curse between families and not forget the cult of witch hunters… it was absolutely perfect for Halloween time! I am really hoping that Raven gets a book next, I didn’t think she would need her own story but I need to see how she moves on!
October 1, 2023
The Penitent by A. Zavarelli and Natasha Knight is book two in The Sacrifice Duet. This continues the story of Willow and Azrael. You will need to read the previous book 'The Tithing' before starting this one to fully enjoy this book. This book does start where we left off. Azrael is working to get Willow back after she was taken. This was a page turning duet for me. I hope to read more from this author soon.
September 30, 2023
Willow and Azrael’s picks up and continues with this book. So, hang on because this breath stealing, pulse-racer is going to rock your world. The tension and suspense are sinfully thick, while the drama and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat and seasoning it all is plenty of heat and emotion. It is just plain stunning.
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