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Obsession

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A steamy hot, obsessive anti-hero, standalone romantic suspense by USA Today Bestselling Author Jane Henry

They call him the executioner.
Some say monster.
Dishonorably discharged from the military, he runs a highly secret, clandestine
operation, and has everything I need to find the justice I crave.
Power players at his disposal.
An insatiable hunger for justice.
A reckless disregard for the law.
I offer him my skills, but that's not what he wants...
He wants me.
And Cain Master always gets what he wants.

Please note: Obsession: A Dark Romantic Suspense Novel was previously published as Vengeance and Atonement, The Master's Protégé duet, now revised and combined to one full length novel.

472 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 26, 2024

282 people are currently reading
208 people want to read

About the author

Jane Henry

114 books2,709 followers
Fueled by dark chocolate and even darker coffee, USA Today bestselling author Jane Henry writes what she loves to read – character-driven, unputdownable romance featuring dominant alpha males and the powerful heroines who bring them to their knees. She’s believed in the power of love and romance since Belle won over the beast, and finally decided to write love stories of her own.

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5 stars
237 (53%)
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128 (28%)
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50 (11%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
Profile Image for Jane Henry.
Author 114 books2,709 followers
Read
July 30, 2024
Available now!

Grab your copy https://geni.us/ObsessionJaneHenry

Please note: Obsession: A Dark Romantic Suspense Novel was previously published as Vengeance and Atonement, The Master's Protégé duet, now revised and combined to one full length novel.

Profile Image for Breanna Starr.
183 reviews28 followers
July 24, 2024
3.25⭐

This book sucked me in for the first 40%...after that it kind of fell off for me. It starts out so intense and mysterious, but then that situation is solved in a matter of chapters and the another thing happens but it doesn't have the same impact. By the time I hit 60-65%, I was lowkey over this book but I was determined to finish it. The characters, I loved in the beginning, then they got annoying and frustrating. He had this "alpha" thing (not the scary alpha vibe but a different one) where he wanted her anywhere, anytime, no matter how she felt, and that really gave me the ick. Like JUST TALK!!!
Overall this book was enjoyable in the beginning but by the time I was ready to DNF, I was already halfway done and didn't want to just quit.
Thank you Valentine PR and Jane Henry for this ARC!!

Profile Image for Readsbyraz .
130 reviews7 followers
July 17, 2024
Obsession is a stand-alone, dark romantic suspense story that was previously published as Vengeance and Atonementn of the Master's Protégé dute that has been revised and republished.

Not having read the original work. This story was refreshing yet still similar to the author's previous work. Habe Henry has a way of giving us the readers' characters with a tragic back story, all seeking vengeance and redemption to end with the happiest of all ever afters.

This book tells the story of Violet and Cain (a fitting name after the world's first murderer...). Cain is obsessed with Violet and puts into action a plan that has her seeking him, an assassin for hire, out for help. He manages to train and hone her skills but also manages to convince her heart that he isnhers to love.

Violet, unbeknownst to Cain's planning, seeks help on finding her parents murderers in return she helps Cain in finding his younger sister, Skylar. Throughout the story, we see Violet grow into the power house alpha female.

The suspense comes in the form of a serial killer who has Skylar as well as Violet finding out how obsessed Cain actually is with her. The main characters have amazing chemistry that is dispersed throughout the story. The additional characters bring about an added dimension to the story and definitely make me want to read the Oath of Series with the introduction of the Rossi family.

This was another great read from the author, and I recommend reading her ongoing Wicked Vows Series for something similar to this.

Lastly, I'd like to thank the author and Valentine's PR for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy. These are always greatly appreciated, and I look forward to future works from the author.

Obsession releases July 26th ✨️
Profile Image for Louise Car.
204 reviews5 followers
July 21, 2024
Ms. Henry has taken a different direction with this stand-alone romance. It took time for me to settle in, but once I did, I loved how authentic, refreshing, and captivating it was. It wouldn't have Ms. Henry’s magic touch without danger, drama, torrid, steamy passion, and unique twists and turns. I liked that the heroine was strong, intelligent, and determined, proving that good things came in small packages. She was not a heart and flowers girl but put a gun or knife in her hands, and she was happy. Cain was intense and brutal and lived up to his reputation as The Executioner. Unknown to Violet, he orchestrated strategies that could destroy her faith in him and their relationship.

How far would you go to compromise your values for the man you loved? This was the dilemma Violet faced after she lost trust in Cain. Violet went to Cain for help in finding who had murdered her parents, only to eventually find out he was obsessed with her and was watching her every move.

Despite his addiction to Violet, I admired his protective instincts in keeping her safe while encouraging her natural skills and supporting her need for answers. His knowledge of death gave him the skills to keep them one step ahead of danger. He was my kind of anti-hero.

What a great title this was, as it encapsulates the essence of the story. What is important to me is how the emotional growth deepens between the characters despite their obstacles.
Profile Image for Lisa Conant.
620 reviews38 followers
July 25, 2024
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 out of 5

Tropes:
🫦Master x Protoge
💪Alpha-Male but secretly soft for her
😤Revenge
💀Touch Her and D1e
🔪Stabby FMC

Review:
We have a pretty good revenge piece here, where a stabby FMC (Violet) seeks the help from rich, handsome, contract k1ller, Cain.

She approaches the tantalizing man with an offer of her skillset in exchange for him hunting down and k1lling those who murd3red her parents. He takes her on and they begin some weapon training, which leads to s3xy time bonding. They do mutual "jobs" together, which involves taking out some trashy humans and some action set pieces. There essentially two sets of "k1lls" that they need to do, one to help the other in their agreement of services. Bit we also have their relationship at play and if she is able to look past a secret he has kept.

The first 40% or so I found the strongest, with Violet being taken into the Sanctum of Cain's world and seeing how he disposes of targets with precision. Their feelings develop pretty quick though, I will say. I do love that she's a doppelganger for me at being petite and 5ft tall haha. So great to have pint size rep AND have us still be very capable and stabby!

Cain I found quite magnetic and wish we learned more of his backstory. There are two big "targets" and interrogating/"rubbing them out" action pieces. Their execution just kinda fell flat for me. After the first action set piece, I feel the pacing was off from there. Violet fell into this world a bit too easy for me...though I guess it could also be said that they are more of a Mr and Mrs Smith hit man couple too! I guess it started off as something a bit different and the shift towards that dynamic is what I felt jarred me. I never felt the danger really for them though.
Profile Image for Donna reads Romance.
1,039 reviews41 followers
July 21, 2024
Positively THRILLING!
Every moment of this EXHILARATING story is GRIPPING.
This is exactly the reasons I read romance…Cain Masters!!!
This man has all the book boyfriend material we all love and want. He’s powerful, controlling and HOT.

He’s a man with a mission, finding his sister. Crossing paths with Violet just added another need that turns into obsession. Cain’s the type of man who gets what he wants, therefore he finds a way for Violet to need his skills and at the same time he realizes that this tantalizing, smart and beautiful women has skills that he can use and help flourish.

As for Violet her character is empowering and badass. I enjoyed that she had so much tenacity and courage to do what she needed to punish those who murdered her parents. Going to Cain is her one true chance to achieve her own mission.

They have an attraction that is so intense that it burns throughout the pages of their story, and it’s passionate, enticing and alluring.
Together these two characters face many challenges with a few twist and turns, thats what makes their story entertaining and inviting.

I highly recommend this dark suspenseful romance if you’re looking for intrigue with a little danger alongside fascinating and interesting characters.
You will be thoroughly delighted with Cain and Violet’s riveting and captivating story.
Profile Image for ashamaree.bookgirlie.
93 reviews3 followers
July 24, 2024
Obsession by Jane Henry - ARC Review

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

Tropes:
- Forced Proximity
- Dark Romance
- Touch Her & Die Vibes
- Alpha Hero
- Protective Hero
- Grumpy/Grumpy
- Vigilante

Obsession is my first Jane Henry book and what can I say it definitely DID NOT disappoint. It was absolutely amazing and I was hooked. Highly captivating that I couldn’t put it down it. Chapter after chapter, needing to know what would happen next. I just kept getting drawn in, I love it.

Violet, a girl with pretty amethyst eyes, wants to get revenge against whoever killed her parents and Cain, the ex military known as "The Executioner", is just the man who can help her. I loved Cain’s protectiveness and his ‘you touch her you die vibes’ was just perfect.

Violet knew she couldn’t afford Cain’s services but she was willing to barter her set of skills that would benefit him and to get him to help her find whoever murdered her parents. Little did she know the day she goes to meet with Cain, that all he wants is her! Cain runs a security company and he knows exactly who Violet is and what her skills are and she has no absolutely no idea that with her turning up at his house was essentially all engineered by Cain.

This book had so many good things, it has passion, betrayals,, weapons, dominance, drama, organisational loyalties and off-the-chart chemistry between this couple. Cain and Violet were just simply amazing.

I definitely highly recommend giving this dark suspenseful romance are read. If you are looking for intrigue with that little bit of danger alongside fascinating and interesting characters. Then this book is for you. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to read more from Jane Henry.

Please note: Obsession: A Dark Romantic Suspense Novel was previously published as Vengeance and Atonement, The Master's Protégé duet, now revised and combined to one full length novel.
Profile Image for Kim.
248 reviews29 followers
July 27, 2024
3,5/5 stars

“𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘺.. 𝘮𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘭𝘺.” 🕊️

Obsession was previously published as a duet and you could tell. I found the story very enjoyable and suspenseful at the beginning. The tension and built up between the main characters was done really well and I was aching for the spice to hit. There are two main plots/big targets in the book, after the first mission was completed I felt the pacing was off from there and by the time I hit the 50% mark I was lowkey over the book but still determined to finish it. Aside from that I’m glad I finished the book!
Profile Image for Misty Schott.
4,225 reviews35 followers
August 26, 2024
Cain will have his obsession.

The moment Cain laid eyes on Violet he knew she would be his and he became obsessed with her. Cain also figured out that with the type of woman Violet is he would need her to come to him and she needed to believe it was her idea. But when two people come together with that kind of secret between them it never ends well!
Profile Image for Stacey's Library.
109 reviews40 followers
July 26, 2024
⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Violet needs Caine's help to find out who killed her parents. As a hired assassin, he should have all the answers she needs. But Caine has lots of skeletons that are about to be exposed! 😬

Obsession is the perfect title for this book because this man is utterly OBSESSED with Violet. Caine is tall, dark, and dangerous - everything that turns Violet on. Maybe they are the perfect match, in life and business.
1,794 reviews38 followers
July 26, 2024
Hooked! Hooked from the very beginning! It starts out intense and I couldn’t put it down. The depths of emotions I felt while reading was unreal. My heart was broken and put back together again in such a way that I fell in love with Cain and Violet. He’s all alpha, fierce, loyal and will protect those he cares for. When Violet comes across his doorstep he knew she was not only the one for him, but the perfect counterpart in all ways. Violet is a strong character who has had a rough life but has a mission to complete. She feels that Cain can help her, but never anticipated the feelings she would come to have for him. This story takes you on a wild ride of which you never want to get off. Quite a bit goes on in this story that will make you cringe and make your head spin! Plus the chemistry between them both in bed and out will set your Kindle on fire. There is so much to love about Cain and Violet and their story is one I will never forget!
Profile Image for Coty Guido.
298 reviews
July 26, 2024
This Pains me to write, I struggled with this book so much! The best part was like 50% to 80% .
There are two different plots points that should have been given more time.
I feel like there was so much wasted space in the first 20% of the book where their was so much over describing that made me question if I could read this story. I didnt feel anything the first time they hooked up. But right after that at around 50% I was like ok this is it its finally getting interesting.
But at like 80% I was like Nope we are back where we started.
Ok so I was ready to jump into this story. I was ready to love it. But I found myself forcing myself to read it and finish it.
I wanted either more or less from this book. It would take to long to describe which parts for that.
I'm sorry I really tried with this book.
I'm gonna try this author again with one of her more popular books so I can compare, because maybe its just me.
50 reviews6 followers
July 26, 2024
Title: Obsession
Author: Jane Henry
MC: Violet (FMC), Cain (MMC)
Setting: Salem
Genres: Dark Romantic Suspense, Mystery
Tropes: Alpha Hero, Badass Heroine, Forced Proximity, Touch Her and Die, Vigilante
Triggers: gun and knife violence, sexual assault, murder
Epilogue: Yes (a very cute one)

Synopsis: Violet approaches the elusive Cain Masters for his private investigative help. He has a notorious past, which leads her to believe that he is the only person who can help her find her parent’s murderer. Unbeknownst to her, Cain has been “stalking” Violet for months, secretly formulating a plan to have her come to him. Upon their meeting, Cain receives an emergency alert for his sister, who has gone missing. Cain has to up his timeline on recruiting Violet to his PI team, and immediately begins tracking down leads regarding his sister’s disappearance. Through her research, Violet believes a serial rapist has Cain’s sister. After parting for the night, Violet finds herself as the potential next victim, as she is attacked in her apartment and left flowers (the rapist’s signature). Cain insists on Violet staying at his home, where she meets the other team members, continues researching, and training. They finally track down the rapist and rescue Cain’s sister. Cain and Violet move on to their next mission of tracking down those responsible for her parent’s murders. A clue leads them to her former foster father, but are thwarted from getting further information by his death. Violet and Cain then have to regroup, only for Violet to learn Cain has kept his obsession with her a secret. He had been watching her for months before getting together. Violet feels betrayed, lost her trust with him, and no longer wishes to be with him, but stays until they get to the bottom of her parent’s case.
They discover the employee Cain fired is apart of the family behind her parent’s deaths. Violet and Cain set a trap, where they kill the murderer despite being injured. Violet forgives Cain, deciding to stay together and eventually start a family.

Thoughts: This was such a page turner! Full of action and mystery right from the start. Both our main characters have dark, complicated pasts, and carry many secrets. Violet and Cain are so similar and each recognize the heaviness they shoulder, which leads to major tension between the two. I love how they both are experts and skilled in many things, but still learn and teach each other. Their banter is very entertaining, but the scenes where they show vulnerability draw you in more. I think it’s great when such strong characters show vulnerability because it gives them depth and makes them more relatable. Violet and Cain were really perfect for each other, even through their mistakes. I love a good mystery, and this story has two to follow. There is also a fun crossover with one of our favorite families (Rossi’s). I would love to read more about Violent and Cain, or see characters like Joe or Skylar have their own stories.

*ARC Review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for A.H. Monroe.
Author 4 books51 followers
July 29, 2024
A MILLION STARS!!!!!!!!

Wow, where do I even begin with Obsession by Jane Henry? This book quickly became my favorite of hers, and Violet and Cain have definitely earned a top spot on my favorite couples list this year.

Violet and Cain are the perfect pair—Violet is fierce, independent, and doesn't take any nonsense, while Cain is the quiet, brooding type who commands respect with just a look. Their dynamic is electric, to say the least 👀. Violet, needing Cain's help to uncover the mystery behind her parents' deaths, offers him her services, and let me tell you, he certainly takes advantage of that offer!

Violet had me absolutely mesmerized. She's a badass who knows how to fight, wield daggers, and is also a brilliant mind in STEM—talk about the whole package! Cain, on the other hand, is deliciously complex, harboring secrets that only add to his allure. He's not one to wear his heart on his sleeve, and you can only understand him as much as he allows, making him all the more intriguing. As the title suggests, he's completely obsessed with Violet, and their interactions are filled with a tantalizing mix of respect, challenge, and undeniable attraction.

Their journey together isn't just about action and thrill; it's a deep dive into trust and healing. Both have had rough pasts, and their shared experiences create a strong bond. Watching their relationship evolve was like a feast for the soul—I couldn't get enough! When Cain finally lets down his walls and surrenders to Violet, the scenes are some of the hottest and most compelling I've ever read. The spice level? Off the charts 🔥.

Beyond the romance, the action is intense and gripping. Cain’s interrogation skills paired with Violet’s sharp attention to detail made for an unbeatable team. My heart was pounding during their missions, each moment filled with suspense and excitement. However, they do have to work on trust, which adds another layer of depth to their story. They are two wounded souls learning to find love and trust again, and it's both heartbreaking and beautiful to witness.

In short, Obsession is a thrilling, steamy, and deeply emotional read that I absolutely loved. If you're looking for a book that has it all—action, romance, strong characters, and a compelling storyline—this is it. Jane Henry has truly outdone herself with this one!

* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Nickie Sale.
893 reviews5 followers
July 21, 2024
Wow, dragged me right in within the first couple of chapters and refused to let me go!! This is a steamy, action packed page turner and you just know right from the outset that nothing will turn out how you expect it to.

Violet, the girl with amethyst colour eyes, wants revenge against whoever killed her parents, Cain, ex military known as "The Executioner", is the man who can help her. This is a complex web, the weaving of which began back when Violets parents were alive, got a lot more intricate six months prior to the current time, only to gain more complexity before it starts to fall apart.

Violet knows she couldn't afford to hire Cain's, to look for who killed her parents. But she has skills, skills which she feels Cain would benefit from having and she can barter with him. Little does she know, the day she goes to Cain that all he wants is her!! She has no idea that her turning up at his house was essentially engineered by Cain.

Whilst Violet struggles to persuade Cain that of the benefits she would bring to his team, Cain is told his sister, Skylar, is missing and Cain decides that Violet can help them and so begins their journey. Violet is strong, intelligent, focussed and very sharp. Cain, typical alpha male, dominant and honestly I felt he let the macho male in him underestimate Violet. It's Violet's sharpness, which ultimately leads to them finding Skylar. Skylar is perhaps one of those "silent" characters who you don't really see to start with, but she comes into her own later.

Now, the hunt for who killed Violets parents begins. Violet and Cain coming together is like a beautiful harmony coming together but your waiting for the inevitable crash. It's definately hot and steamy, Cain asserting his domance over Violet, which perhaps slightly surprisingly she finds she needs. Cain Violet is no shrinking Violet and she can and does push Cain, as well as proving to be his strength, pulling him back when needed at times. Earning Violet's trust was Cain's biggest hurdle, losing it was his biggest mistake.

Unwinding that complex web, danger, trust and romance are all intertwined in this compelling read. Advice, don't start this book if you don't have time to finish it, you won't want to put it down.
Profile Image for Kathy Heare Watts.
6,962 reviews175 followers
July 26, 2024
CAIN AND VIOLET

The story was previously released in the Master's Protégé series as two parts and has been rewritten, re-edited, and rereleased as one book. The story has a great cast of characters, challenging interactions, haunting secrets, and missions to carry out. The story was a breath of fresh air in being unique and creative. The two main characters are Cain Masters and Violet Price.

Violet Price will go where no one wants to go—the compound of Cain Masters. These two are playing a game of cat and mouse, he knows about her, and she has been researching him. Cain is a man of action, doesn't live within the law, and has a way of taking out the trash. While the police don't bother him, they don't assist him either.

The story's plot will have Violet going to Master's compound, but she has a little too much confidence and even arrogance trying to get him to work with her. She doesn't know that he has been watching her, impressed with her skills, and even admires her—but he plans to be in charge, and she will learn quickly, she will do things his way, or he won't be helping her. She finds his dominance a bit over the top—after all, she is a modern woman who has taken care of herself for years now.

The story has the good, the bad, and the evil of people. There are secrets, angst, passion, power, control, and trust—but Cain and Violet will discover that trust is the key. The story has a great cast of characters, challenging interactions, haunting secrets, and missions to carry out. The story was a breath of fresh air in being unique and creative. Yes, you will have answers when you finish this book, but the journey is full of mystery and suspense. Will Cain and Violet survive the turmoil?

The story's plot has Cain and Violet on missions and eventually putting the pieces together of secrets from the past. It is a journey of whodunit and why—but they will encounter many obstacles along the way. The one thing for both Cain and Violet is these two loners are developing feelings beyond sexual chemistry and kinks. But, will love be enough? The story does have some scenes of violence, along with power play and sexual scenes.
Profile Image for Nessa’s Book Reviews.
1,421 reviews75 followers
August 8, 2024
If you’re in the mood for a dark, pulse-pounding romance with an anti-hero who’s as dangerous as he is irresistible, look no further than Obsession by Jane Henry. This steamy standalone will leave you breathless as you dive into the intense and forbidden world of Cain Master and Violet.

Cain is known as the executioner, a man with a reputation so fearsome that some call him a monster. Dishonorably discharged from the military, he now runs a clandestine operation with ruthless efficiency, fueled by a relentless thirst for justice that borders on obsession. When Violet crosses his path, seeking his help to right a wrong, she quickly discovers that Cain isn’t interested in just her skills—he wants her.

From the moment their paths collide, the chemistry between Cain and Violet is electric, sparking a dangerous game of desire and power. Cain is a man who always gets what he wants, and what he wants is Violet. But in this dark and twisted world, where the lines between right and wrong blur, their relationship is anything but simple. As Violet is drawn deeper into Cain’s orbit, she must confront her own demons and decide if she’s willing to surrender to the man who could either save her or destroy her.

Obsession is a masterclass in romantic suspense, combining a gripping plot with sizzling tension that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Jane Henry crafts a tale that’s as addictive as it is dark, with characters who are flawed, complex, and utterly compelling.

Cain is the kind of anti-hero you can’t help but fall for—dangerous, dominant, and driven by an unyielding need to protect what’s his. And Violet, with her own scars and secrets, is the perfect match for him, bringing a blend of strength and vulnerability that makes their story all the more captivating.

If you’re a fan of dark romance with a heavy dose of suspense and a hero who walks the line between sin and salvation, Obsession is a must-read. It’s intense, steamy, and utterly unputdownable—everything you could want in a dark romantic suspense.
Profile Image for Karen_Lee_Reads.
1,301 reviews47 followers
August 8, 2024
Obsession: A Dark Romantic
Suspence Novel
By Jane Henry

Please tell me when I need a super hero to save me from anything that I can call Cain Master and his company to save me!

Author Jane Henry has taken what once once two seperate stories, Vengeance and Atonement, The Master’s Protége duet and has combined them into Obsession!

So who is obsessed….well me actually. I was obsessed with Cain and Violet through this entire story.

Cain a man who has seen so much and now runs his own company of men who have been dishonorably discharged from service and they make a pretty penny hunting down the people he is hired to find.

Violet needs closeur on something that has followed her through her life, it’s time to get revenge for the loss of her parents and she is sure the only person that can help her is Cain. Violet who lives her life with few friends and standing back and watching, helping people she can help, she believes she isn’t seen, that she is to much….what she doesn’t realize is her meeting with Cain Master was all orchastrated by him. He wants her, he is obsessed with her….this was going to be good is what I thought.

Honestly there was not one point in this story where I was disappointed. If you have even just once in your life felt one of the feelings that Violet felt you will understand her. If you have ever wanted someone to fight your deamons, then you will realize it’s Cain you need.

You get suspence and you get so much spice! Both of these characters have one thing in common, they need to trust who they work with business and in life. Sometimes with the best of intentions though, trust might be not be broken, but bent to keep the fear of losing that one person you need that makes you whole.

The pages flew by, the story had me rooting for these two from the get go and again Author Jane Henry gave me a read that was everything I could have asked for. A five star read from me! I can’t wait for the next release.
1,257 reviews
July 30, 2024
I have long been a fan of Jane Henry's dark romances and this one didn't disappoint.
Violet had changed her name, she didn't want anyone connecting her to her parents but what she did want was revenge and only one person could help her.
Violet was only four years old when her parents were murdered, the passage through the foster system had scarred her for life but it had given her the resilience and determination that made her what she is today, feisty, skilled in martial arts and slick with a knife, skills she would come to rely on.
Violet's parents hadn't been saints, she was sure that her father was an assassin but she had grown up without her mothers love and someone was going to pay.
Ex military, Cain Masters was known as the executioner, his vast wealth came from the highly successful, clandestine operation that he ran, he had a hand picked team that he pain well for their skills and their loyalty.
Violet knew that she couldn't afford to pay Cain for his help but she thought that she might offer her skills but it wasn't her skills that Cain wanted, it was Violet.
As this story unfolds it becomes clear that Cain has secrets, secrets include Violet, secrets that if she found out could shatter his dreams.
I love these two characters, Cain is broody, brutal but fiercely protective and loyal, he will fight for justice and doesn't care what he has to do to get it. Violet is feisty, she stands no nonsense from Cain, she isn't afraid of him and Cain finds this strangely amusing.......but he will only let it go so far.
The chemistry between the two is combustive, the journey they they travel has high hurdles, they fight fiercely and they love just as fiercely.
Thank you Valentine publishing for this ARC, my review is totally voluntary.
Profile Image for Bonny Read.
523 reviews19 followers
August 12, 2024
Loved this one. Definitely a page turner. The MFC's parents were mudered when she was 4. She suffered some bad foster homes growing up and has the scars to prove it. But she hasn't let that stop her. She's ultra smart, analytical and speaks several languages. She's spent her life honing her fighting skills, learning how to use and throw knives and trying to find out who killed her parents. She wants revenge.

The MMC an alpha, BA is head of his own security/investigation/special services firm. Not everything they do is within the law. Exorbitant fees have earned him billions. He has contacts, connections and surveillance others can only dream of. And she needs those connection to help find who killed her parents, so she approaches him offering her services in exchange for his help. But she's going to have to prove herself first.

I love that there are two totally separate investigation in this story. In the first, the MMC's sister has disappeared. He has her work on the investigation with him to prove that she can be trusted and can take orders. The second is the search for her parents killer. It's like two different stories in one...with the same main characters. Their relationship progresses throughout each investigation. She's used to being in control and has to learn how to let go and trust, learn to follow orders. He has ulterior motives...he's been obsessed with her since the first time he saw her, but she's not aware he knew her before she showed up at his compound. In order to win her, he needs to earn her trust as eell. But just when it looks like trust is finally won, somethings come to light that could jeopardize everything.

Aside from the relationship which is hot and spicy, the investigation themselves are page turners. You get a mystery thriller and hot romance all in one. 4.75 stars
Profile Image for Sarah Slusarczyk .
588 reviews
July 27, 2024
The newest addition to the Jane Henry world; Obsession. A dark, forced proximity, romantic mystery that is sure to entertain its readers. This is a standalone book, and as such does not need any additional reading.

This author is a first time read to me, and because of that this book was eye opening, and a pretty good read for the most. I would check the trigger warning before reading, mainly because of the stalking that comes into play, but overall it did not feel very dark. The majority of the book runs a little slow paced, but the plot and story telling is engaging and easy to keep up with. Mystery romances can sometimes fall flat for me because I can always figure out who the “bad guy” is, well not with this one.

Violet and Cain are trippy! Cain is a PI with a very well known firm that is very exclusive in their clients. When Violet reaches out to Cain with a plea to help her find the monsters that killed her parents, Cain isn’t surprised. After all, he's been keeping an eye on her already, in hopes of guiding her to coming to him for help. In the next twist, Cain's sister is taken, and Violet has been added to the hit list of the man who has taken her. So much happens in the plot of this story, however it really doesn’t start moving until about half way through the book. Cain and Violet work together to find his sister and the people who killed her parents. A lot happens in the span of this mystery, and when Violet learns that Cain betrayed her, well all bets are off on that interaction. Overall pretty good book, action and mystery are top notch, spice…could have been better but overall good.

3.2 Stars
1 Pepper
Profile Image for SherrecePQ Tanner.
346 reviews9 followers
July 20, 2024
This is the first book I have read of Jane Henry's. The lure was the tropes, and if it is dark, I will read it.

Cain is "The Executioner", and heads an elite core of ex military men who are for hire. And let's be fair, how this MMC is described, well, he is quite delicious.

Violet (with eyes the colour of amethyst) wants to find the people/person that killed her parents, and the only way she can do that is to "hire" Cain. However, she does not have the funds that it would take to do this, but she has her own set of skills as to ingratiate herself into the business. Violet is no shrinking one, with skilled moves in martial arts, and an accuracy with a knife, that peak's Cain's interest. However, he has been "obsessed" with her from afar for awhile. Both our main characters hold cards close to their chests, but their shared pain from the past, and their passions see these two have some rather spicy moments, which I am not mad about.

I initially found this book hard to read, not in the content, but how it flowed to me, but it captured me enough, as I had become invested in the characters and story, to stay, and I am glad I did. Having no other book from this author to compare it too, I would love to read something else. I know that just because I may not like a way a book is written, that is only my opinion, and is not a reason to discredit what was a good story overall. Thank you for this opportunity to ARC read for you, and I would be willing to do so again. I also will be looking at your other books.
Profile Image for Jenny Jackson.
1,262 reviews9 followers
July 30, 2024
Cain and Violet

This book had the same vibe I’ve come to expect from Jane Henry. I don’t know how she makes dark romance so light. While I could tell it was originally a duet with a very clear first and second half, I didn’t really mind it. It was easy to get into and seemed to fly by.

Cain was most definitely a controlling alpha male but I really enjoyed his reactions to Violet. She was independent and head strong and could take care of herself. The push and pull between the two of them was immediate and I loved it. Cain was a MMC who needed someone who didn’t just easily submit to him. He needed someone to challenge him and keep him on his toes and that’s exactly what Violet did.

Violet was a very interesting character. She had so many secrets and so many questions about her past. She was a fierce fmc who was trained in martial arts and knife throwing and was brilliant on top of that. I loved her training sessions with Cain and his reluctance to let her take care of herself when all he wanted to do was take care of her.

There were two major suspense plots and I really liked them both. It brought Cain and Violet together and exposed all their secrets. I loved how everything played out and I loved the ending.
Profile Image for Angela DJ.
84 reviews7 followers
July 31, 2024
I absolutely love when I find gems like this!! I get in such a reading slump so it’s a thrill when I find unexpected reads like this. AND on my birthday!! Happy birthday to me 😆🥰🎉🎁

My ONLY issue is……I believe the audible audiobook is missing chapter 15 & chapter 18 is repeated.
It goes from ch. 14 to 16, then from 18 to 17 & to 18 again & then ch. 19 ???
I tried looking into it thru Google search but nothing comes up).

Tbh, I liked this way more than I expected I would.
Most books I read nowadays seem flat &/or a carbon copy of each other, but this was such a breath of fresh air for me!!

Besides the missing chapter (which I read thru Kindle), for me I REALLY liked the mystery & felt it was just the right combo of edgy & light with humor I enjoyed. It kept me engaged for sure.

Great banter between MMC & FMC, along w/side characters.
Loved Skylar & Cain’s interactions!

Skylar’s sass, wit & her ability to pick up on things that Cain & others did not, made their work together more interesting for sure.

I like that with Cain’s POV we were getting an insight to how he was really feeling. It helped give me a better understanding of him.
Per Skylar’s view, she saw him but often thru a mask or thru her perception of him. Which makes them more realistic.
31 reviews
September 7, 2024
3.5 stars.

I am in total agreement to a couple other reviews I read here on the book starting super strong, but then kind of slowing down / dragging on.

I too, was pretty much sucked into the story & characters in the beginning. But I feel that there were various aspects in the story that maybe needed to be more fleshed out - they were quite well built up, but then never really delivered when it came to it. This includes various kinks that were teased, as well as the mystery / suspense elements which were resolved fairly easily / quickly rather than keeping you on the edge. Even the "secrets" that were being kept, didn't seem all that big of a deal.

Also, the blurb says it's an "anti-hero", but honestly he didn't seem like that at all to me 🤷 - maybe it's just because of all the dark(er) romance I read 😂

And on a personal front, this was more steamy than smutty, which was kind of disappointing as a smut reader. But for someone who is cool with slight fade to black type scenarios, this wouldn't be too much of a bother.

Overall I did really enjoy the characters & the story, and it hooked me in when I started. But by the end, it was a bit underwhelming to be honest - I feel that it had the potential to be a bit more, and on that front it left me a bit wanting.
Profile Image for Leslie OBrien.
756 reviews14 followers
July 20, 2024
Oh! This is a must read. More importantly, it is such a FUN read, but beware. If you’d only intended to read for a short time, maybe don’t start this book yet. Because. I did that last night and it was almost 3a when I finished it and didn’t even notice how much time had passed.

Violet Price and Cain Master are… I don’t know what it is about these two characters but I am thoroughly entranced by them. There’s romances where it’s clearly “opposites attract” but not so with this book. They are so alike in ways that it’s like watching a dance, as they circle around each other. Violet is delightfully bloodthirsty and I love, love, love how turned on she gets by Cain’s actions (and I don’t mean the smexy kind) and I CACKLED at her love of his choice of trucks. And Cain is the right kind of incarnation of a growly, protective alpha. And the fact that he’s actually flustered by some of the things she says is so damn delightful, I cackled (I did that a lot).

This is now my favorite Jane Henry book. I’ve highlighted a bunch of quotes that just tickled my sense of humor. These two are my favorite couple and I would absolutely LOVE to see more from them.
Profile Image for Lita Thomas.
1,568 reviews27 followers
July 26, 2024
Obsession by Jane Henry is the story of Violet, a young lady who endured not only the murder of her parents at the age of 4 but also assuming her father was an assassin which resulted in her being raised in foster care. Life certainly wasn't easy for her, but she endured. Now, as an adult, she has only one mission in mind, and that is to find out who killed her parents and get revenge. Violet knows one man can help her achieve her goal Cain Master. When a car accident puts him in his path, she sees it as an opportunity to set her plan in motion. What Violet doesn't know is that she has been on Cain's radar for a while. He had ulterior motives and had already put in a plan in motion even before Violet ended up at his house. There were so many things that went on in this story. Be prepared for the ride. What started out as a barter of services to a game of cat and mouse. I really enjoyed this story. The interaction between Violet and Cain was a true emotional rollercoaster ride. It had it highs and it lows. Sometimes, I wanted to laugh, and other times, I wanted to scream. A 4 star read for me.
Profile Image for Maz.
1,680 reviews29 followers
July 28, 2024
This was originally a duet but now it is one book and I'm glad. It is still a book of 2 halves and it works. So it's a long book and definitely worth the time. I was instantly left intrigued from the first word and it continued to keep my attention until the end.
Cain Masters is a man of few words, his presence is enough to give you what kind of person he is. Man was obsessed with Violet and her Violet eyes. I did love his character and how protective he is of his loved ones.
Violet an orphan is just as mysterious. She is very highly talented in combat and definitely surprising!
She needs help to find her parents murderers and he needs help finding his sister.
I loved the whole plot and how I was constantly left captured and trying to find answers.
Lots of drama, actions, suspense, secrets, mysteries, flirty banter, found family, emotions, love and oh so hot steam.
Cain needs violet to trust him and love him, but will his secret be the end of it all?

“You’re so beautiful, I feel as if I stare too long, I’ll turn to stone.”

"Like everything about Cain Master, his kiss is too much. Too much everything."
3,145 reviews
August 25, 2024
Wonderful read that will hold you riveted to the page, the chemistry between characters is wonderful
Violet is determined to discover who is responsible for the death of her beloved parents, she agrees with Cain Masters for his assistance in discovering the answers and is told that this had been his plan all along in getting her to meet her.
This is a simple title that I guarantee you will find stands up on its own two feet and is a title that once you begin reading you will not be able to put this book down until you reach the end and discover the outcome. This is a look into the departure from the Mafia and Bratva world and if you love lots of action and adventure guarantee that you ewill be blown away by this amazing book.
This is a simply wonderful read and I guarantee that you will be left looking forward to future reads by this wonderful author, I loved the characters and the plot was simply fantastic and I guarantee that you will love every moment of this amazing book.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
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