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Once Upon a Villain
Beast
I’m just a pawn in a game for Mexico's wealthiest, cruelest man.Following my abduction, I find myself in the opulent home of Gaston Marques, Mexico's most feared billionaire. He's dark, he's dangerous, and he's obsessed with possessing me. I detest him and resist him, but he doesn't care. He takes what he wants, and he wants me.
But then, something shifts. In this gilded cage, I see glimpses of a different side of Gaston amidst the darkness. And against all my better judgment, I find myself drawn to him, pulled in by his magnetism. Even as I push back, I can't deny his strange and powerful attraction.
When my friends devise a daring plan to rescue me, Gaston lets me go. But there’s a twist. He follows me. He's determined to win me over in my world, a place where he's the outsider, not me. I tell him it's impossible, that we could never be. But love, especially one as twisted and intoxicating as ours, doesn't play by the rules.
Beast is the fifth book in the Once Upon a Villain Series by Bianca Cole. This dark, billionaire mafia romance explores themes that may be disturbing to some readers. No cliffhanger and a happily-ever-after ending means this book can be read as a standalone.
But then, something shifts. In this gilded cage, I see glimpses of a different side of Gaston amidst the darkness. And against all my better judgment, I find myself drawn to him, pulled in by his magnetism. Even as I push back, I can't deny his strange and powerful attraction.
When my friends devise a daring plan to rescue me, Gaston lets me go. But there’s a twist. He follows me. He's determined to win me over in my world, a place where he's the outsider, not me. I tell him it's impossible, that we could never be. But love, especially one as twisted and intoxicating as ours, doesn't play by the rules.
Beast is the fifth book in the Once Upon a Villain Series by Bianca Cole. This dark, billionaire mafia romance explores themes that may be disturbing to some readers. No cliffhanger and a happily-ever-after ending means this book can be read as a standalone.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2024
242 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
April 19, 2026
Sold, Claimed, and Impossible to Break
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🩷💚❤️💙
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: 😋🙂😁😛😍
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Duet Narration
Characters and Plot
Blake and several of her friends have been kidnapped and held in isolated cells. Blake has ADHD and relies on medication she has not received since her abduction. Without it, she feels an uncomfortable itch beneath her skin and worries about how long she can maintain control. The girls were kept apart until the previous day, when their captors began what they call “training.” Now they are held together, hoping they can support one another through whatever comes next.
The Trainers enter the cell and force the girls to strip and kneel. Blake keeps her eyes down even though every instinct tells her to fight. She understands that the men are trying to break them into obedience and submission. They humiliate the girls by describing what awaits them once they are sold, telling them to expect a life spent on their backs. Blake senses that one of the men feeds on her pain and humiliation and wants her to resist so he can justify hurting her. She knows that the men who buy women are not the kind of men anyone would want to meet.
Gaston arrives at Iliana Navarro’s establishment excited to see the new “stock.” His last girl did not last long with him because she lacked fire. Iliana suspects he kills the girls once he is done with them, but he actually puts them to work for him after he grows bored. Gaston is pleased to learn the new girls have only just begun their training. Since training often breaks them, he prefers to take one before that process is complete. He notices that Taran, one of Iliana’s male workers, reacts when Gaston approaches the redheaded girl.
Despite that, Gaston is drawn to the blonde girl at the end of the row. Her spirit and defiance catch his attention immediately. He knows she is the one he wants and claims her on the spot. In his mind, he is saving her. He believes he is taking her from what will be a most likely hellish existence and giving her a life in luxury with him. Gaston avoids real relationships, which is why he buys women instead. Iliana is charging fifteen million for these girls, so he hopes this one holds his interprets longer than the last. Gaston uses his girls both as domestic servants and for his own gratification, and he imagines Blake will love his beautiful home in the city.
Highlights and Limitations
One of the strongest elements of the story is Gaston’s immediate obsession with Blake. His reactions to her are noticeably different from how he behaved with any of the women in his past. It created a surprising emotional conflict because he is undeniably compelling, even though he willingly participates in human trafficking. Gaston begins as an intense and morally grey character, but his development is satisfying. He evolves into a man who genuinely loves Blake and is willing to push past his own boundaries to treat her with the agency and respect she deserves. He shifts from viewing her as property to seeing her as someone he wants to please. He also moves from believing he grows bored with women to realizing he will never tire of Blake and wants to ensure she never tires of him either.
Some plot points did not fully align with what the blurb suggested. The blurb implied that Blake’s friends rescue her and that Gaston follows, so it seemed like that would happen early in the story. Instead, Blake remains captive for quite some time. She and Gaston even have a conversation about how, if he truly wants her to belong to him, he must let her go. He does not want to, but he understands her reasoning and agrees to it, echoing the idea that if you love something, you set it free.
Another confusing element involves a cartel boss named Pablo Estrada, who wants territory from Gaston in Mexico City in order to take down Iliana Navarro. When Gaston refuses, Estrada approaches the board of Gaston’s tech company. Gaston built the company from nothing and has always worked with intense focus, but Estrada suggests that Gaston’s newest acquisition is distracting him. The board members have already noticed that Gaston’s attention toward Blake at a charity event was different from how he treated women in the past. Gaston shuts down their concerns, explaining that working more normal hours, instead of the hours of 2 or 3 men, does not make him any less essential to the company. This part makes sense, but it feels contradictory that he immediately takes Blake on a yacht vacation afterward, which undermines the image he just defended.
Narration
The audiobook is performed in dual points of view with duet narration by Corvin King and Autumn Ivy. Autumn Ivy’s voice suits Blake perfectly. She captures Blake’s defiance and determination with a tone that feels authentic to the character. Corvin King delivers a deep, compelling performance that fits Gaston’s dominant personality. His voice is rich and commanding, and he excels during the more intense and intimate moments. Together, they create a dynamic listening experience that enhances the emotional tension of the story.
Final Opinion
This audiobook delivers a dark, emotionally charged story that blends captivity, obsession, and character transformation. Blake’s resilience and Gaston’s evolution from a morally grey buyer to a man capable of genuine love create a compelling dynamic. While certain plot elements feel inconsistent or at odds with the blurb, the emotional core of the story remains strong. The narration elevates the material, especially through Corvin King’s standout performance. Overall, this is an intense and engaging listen for readers who enjoy dark romance with complex characters and a strong focus on psychological and emotional development. I did go back and get the rest of the series on both audible and kindle unlimited so I can immersive read them all.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🩷💚❤️💙
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: 😋🙂😁😛😍
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Duet Narration
Characters and Plot
Blake and several of her friends have been kidnapped and held in isolated cells. Blake has ADHD and relies on medication she has not received since her abduction. Without it, she feels an uncomfortable itch beneath her skin and worries about how long she can maintain control. The girls were kept apart until the previous day, when their captors began what they call “training.” Now they are held together, hoping they can support one another through whatever comes next.
The Trainers enter the cell and force the girls to strip and kneel. Blake keeps her eyes down even though every instinct tells her to fight. She understands that the men are trying to break them into obedience and submission. They humiliate the girls by describing what awaits them once they are sold, telling them to expect a life spent on their backs. Blake senses that one of the men feeds on her pain and humiliation and wants her to resist so he can justify hurting her. She knows that the men who buy women are not the kind of men anyone would want to meet.
Gaston arrives at Iliana Navarro’s establishment excited to see the new “stock.” His last girl did not last long with him because she lacked fire. Iliana suspects he kills the girls once he is done with them, but he actually puts them to work for him after he grows bored. Gaston is pleased to learn the new girls have only just begun their training. Since training often breaks them, he prefers to take one before that process is complete. He notices that Taran, one of Iliana’s male workers, reacts when Gaston approaches the redheaded girl.
Despite that, Gaston is drawn to the blonde girl at the end of the row. Her spirit and defiance catch his attention immediately. He knows she is the one he wants and claims her on the spot. In his mind, he is saving her. He believes he is taking her from what will be a most likely hellish existence and giving her a life in luxury with him. Gaston avoids real relationships, which is why he buys women instead. Iliana is charging fifteen million for these girls, so he hopes this one holds his interprets longer than the last. Gaston uses his girls both as domestic servants and for his own gratification, and he imagines Blake will love his beautiful home in the city.
Highlights and Limitations
One of the strongest elements of the story is Gaston’s immediate obsession with Blake. His reactions to her are noticeably different from how he behaved with any of the women in his past. It created a surprising emotional conflict because he is undeniably compelling, even though he willingly participates in human trafficking. Gaston begins as an intense and morally grey character, but his development is satisfying. He evolves into a man who genuinely loves Blake and is willing to push past his own boundaries to treat her with the agency and respect she deserves. He shifts from viewing her as property to seeing her as someone he wants to please. He also moves from believing he grows bored with women to realizing he will never tire of Blake and wants to ensure she never tires of him either.
Some plot points did not fully align with what the blurb suggested. The blurb implied that Blake’s friends rescue her and that Gaston follows, so it seemed like that would happen early in the story. Instead, Blake remains captive for quite some time. She and Gaston even have a conversation about how, if he truly wants her to belong to him, he must let her go. He does not want to, but he understands her reasoning and agrees to it, echoing the idea that if you love something, you set it free.
Another confusing element involves a cartel boss named Pablo Estrada, who wants territory from Gaston in Mexico City in order to take down Iliana Navarro. When Gaston refuses, Estrada approaches the board of Gaston’s tech company. Gaston built the company from nothing and has always worked with intense focus, but Estrada suggests that Gaston’s newest acquisition is distracting him. The board members have already noticed that Gaston’s attention toward Blake at a charity event was different from how he treated women in the past. Gaston shuts down their concerns, explaining that working more normal hours, instead of the hours of 2 or 3 men, does not make him any less essential to the company. This part makes sense, but it feels contradictory that he immediately takes Blake on a yacht vacation afterward, which undermines the image he just defended.
Narration
The audiobook is performed in dual points of view with duet narration by Corvin King and Autumn Ivy. Autumn Ivy’s voice suits Blake perfectly. She captures Blake’s defiance and determination with a tone that feels authentic to the character. Corvin King delivers a deep, compelling performance that fits Gaston’s dominant personality. His voice is rich and commanding, and he excels during the more intense and intimate moments. Together, they create a dynamic listening experience that enhances the emotional tension of the story.
Final Opinion
This audiobook delivers a dark, emotionally charged story that blends captivity, obsession, and character transformation. Blake’s resilience and Gaston’s evolution from a morally grey buyer to a man capable of genuine love create a compelling dynamic. While certain plot elements feel inconsistent or at odds with the blurb, the emotional core of the story remains strong. The narration elevates the material, especially through Corvin King’s standout performance. Overall, this is an intense and engaging listen for readers who enjoy dark romance with complex characters and a strong focus on psychological and emotional development. I did go back and get the rest of the series on both audible and kindle unlimited so I can immersive read them all.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
November 26, 2024
I ended up reading this whole series because I wanted to read this book, but I decided to read them in order. I FINALLY got to this one, all excited and stuff. What do I find? An okayish book. It started out strong and about halfway through, it just lost all of its luster. I stopped caring about both characters. I wanted to move onto the next book. I almost DNFed it, but I decided to keep going. I guess I'm glad I did, but it definitely was not as strong as I wanted it to be.
It felt like the relationship fizzled out. One the romantic tension left, and they were pretty much a couple, there was nothing left to read. I mean, I know he had to "win" her over, but you already knew it was going to be an HEA. A lot of other people enjoyed this book, so maybe look over at their reviews as well before deciding. It wasn't my cup of tea, but I saw a lot of very positive ones as well. Just be aware: there are a TON of triggers with this one.
It felt like the relationship fizzled out. One the romantic tension left, and they were pretty much a couple, there was nothing left to read. I mean, I know he had to "win" her over, but you already knew it was going to be an HEA. A lot of other people enjoyed this book, so maybe look over at their reviews as well before deciding. It wasn't my cup of tea, but I saw a lot of very positive ones as well. Just be aware: there are a TON of triggers with this one.
July 28, 2025
Ok so, I think this wasn’t my cup of tea….well it was and then it wasn’t. First off, Blake and her 3 best friends get captured by a sex trafficker. Second, all of them fall in love with their captors?!?! Well, technically, Blake falls in love with her buyer. Because she was bought from the sex traffickers aka the cartel.
So, besides the fact that the whole situation doesn’t seem likely unless it’s Stockholm Syndrome…..let’s focus on the fact that her buyer, Gaston, was nice to her. He did eventually let her go yet he still had a control over her. He still stalked her, so I’m not sure if that was a good experiment. And then she takes him back after what seems like little time. Cue eye roll…..
What Bianca Cole got right with this book? Conveying the chemistry with these two was off the charts. There was lots of spice, like 5🌶️. Bianca was strong willed. It was definitely dark and the kidnapping added a layer needed for Gaston and Blake to need each other and realize what they have works. And yes, since this was supposed to mimic the Beauty and the Beast, he did let her go. Also, the plus side, he was a hero of hers, because he bought her from the cartel. And he didn’t force himself on her. But still, it was all a little effed up.
Oh, also, getting Corvin King to narrate made this book 10x better. 😍
[KU Read, Dual POV, Free Audible DUET with Autumn Ivy & Corvin King as the narrators]
So, besides the fact that the whole situation doesn’t seem likely unless it’s Stockholm Syndrome…..let’s focus on the fact that her buyer, Gaston, was nice to her. He did eventually let her go yet he still had a control over her. He still stalked her, so I’m not sure if that was a good experiment. And then she takes him back after what seems like little time. Cue eye roll…..
What Bianca Cole got right with this book? Conveying the chemistry with these two was off the charts. There was lots of spice, like 5🌶️. Bianca was strong willed. It was definitely dark and the kidnapping added a layer needed for Gaston and Blake to need each other and realize what they have works. And yes, since this was supposed to mimic the Beauty and the Beast, he did let her go. Also, the plus side, he was a hero of hers, because he bought her from the cartel. And he didn’t force himself on her. But still, it was all a little effed up.
Oh, also, getting Corvin King to narrate made this book 10x better. 😍
[KU Read, Dual POV, Free Audible DUET with Autumn Ivy & Corvin King as the narrators]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2024
Beast was a good read, & for the most part I really enjoyed it. I loved that it was cartel based, but I would’ve liked to have seen more cartel action. I really enjoyed Gaston’s character. He started out as cold, broody, & ruthless. He stayed away f/relationships, buying women when he needed them & never forming feelings or attachments, until Blake. I couldn’t get enough of his possessive, rough & dominant side, & every time he called her his little slut my toes curled! I loved seeing how he wanted Blake to want to stay w/him, as his Queen- not a prisoner. The moment he realized she was different & she became special to him, all bets were off for both of them.
I liked Blake’s character too, but when Gaston allowed her to go. But I did not like how her friends were so opinionated about Gaston. None of them had any right to judge or try to keep Blake f/Gaston. Then how Blake acted towards him, & didn’t stand up to her friends, it kinda left a sour taste in my mouth. Yes he bought her, but he never once forced her to do anything & he treated her damn good.
Next up is the couple I’ve been waiting for!!! Kali & Matias story in Wolf!
I liked Blake’s character too, but when Gaston allowed her to go. But I did not like how her friends were so opinionated about Gaston. None of them had any right to judge or try to keep Blake f/Gaston. Then how Blake acted towards him, & didn’t stand up to her friends, it kinda left a sour taste in my mouth. Yes he bought her, but he never once forced her to do anything & he treated her damn good.
Next up is the couple I’ve been waiting for!!! Kali & Matias story in Wolf!
May 31, 2024
Part of the Once Upon A Villain series each is a retailing of some sort and once you start you won’t want to put it down until the last page has been turned. Gaston sexy as all beast like most beast he is grumpy, dangerous on a good day, ruthless every day, can be dangerous runs from any type of relationship and swears he won’t be in one either, but fate has other plans for our beast. Blake a young college student living the normal college life until she was kidnapped along with her friends by the cartel and then her world changed not knowing where she was headed until the one, they call the beast arrives to hold them. Gaston is overprotective, possessive in more ways than one the magnetic pull between the two of them can’t be contained or ignored she is exactly what he needs, she is exactly what he needed they balance one another she gains her freedom but will her life ever go back to normal, with his enemy always lurking will she be safe, does she learn what’s important, and where are the two of them headed?
June 2, 2024
This is the 5th book in the Once Upon A Villain series featuring the page-turning dark and intriguing billionaire romance full of twists and turns between Gaston and Blake. Blake and her 3 friends are kidnapped while they are vacationing in Mexico and they end up being trained to be sold to wealthy men. Gaston who is Mexico's most feared billionaire buys Blake and she's brought to his opulent home where he's obsessed with possessing her. However Blake resists him because she hates him but as time goes by Blake starts seeing another side of Gaston besides the darkness. Blake finds herself drawn to him and we really see this other side of Gaston when he let's Blake go because he's going to try to win her heart by wooing her. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this page-turning dark and intriguing billionaire romance full of twists and turns to see what happens. I would recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2025
Perhaps it is just me but I am tired of the dominate male character vs., the submissive female character. Yes, Blake is bought at a sex auction by Gaston, but doesn't really start to show a backbone until she is rescued and returns to the states. There she begins to make Gaston work for their relationship, but still is quite willing to take part in his sexual preferences vs., actually expressing her own. It's the same old line that she now "loves and craves it".
The story itself has some originality to it, but still follows the basic patterns these kind of books are known for.
This storyline has been done allot and therefore has lost it's luster for me unless you have a female character who knows when to give in and when to stand her ground. Blake and Gaston were okay, but predictable in their immediate sexual attraction to one another. Blake is very willing to embrace Gaston's darkness and sexual needs/kinks and becomes his pet quickly. I prefer some push and pull in this kind of story instead of the same old thing submissive/dominate scenario. It just comes down to personal choice and what a reader looks for in a book.
The story itself has some originality to it, but still follows the basic patterns these kind of books are known for.
This storyline has been done allot and therefore has lost it's luster for me unless you have a female character who knows when to give in and when to stand her ground. Blake and Gaston were okay, but predictable in their immediate sexual attraction to one another. Blake is very willing to embrace Gaston's darkness and sexual needs/kinks and becomes his pet quickly. I prefer some push and pull in this kind of story instead of the same old thing submissive/dominate scenario. It just comes down to personal choice and what a reader looks for in a book.
June 27, 2025
This definitely will keep you in trance and it'll keep you on the edge of your seat
I definitely am looking forward to the rest of this this book definitely has a sense of underlining meaning towards fairy tales but it also was like phenomenally done and Gaston is just chef's kiss even when he was annoying I definitely commend RFMC on how she handled herself and I don't think that there was As big of a push and pull as I expected but I do think that the manipulation trope was huge in this book and that was a major turn on for me I do commend the FMC in this book because I feel like she stood her ground and the manipulation trope is huge in this book but she still held true to herself even in the situation that they were in also the side characters play a big big role in this book and you just want to dive into their lives as well so I'm looking forward to thatI'm also really looking forward to the rest of the characters because of their role in this book was so huge you want more
I definitely am looking forward to the rest of this this book definitely has a sense of underlining meaning towards fairy tales but it also was like phenomenally done and Gaston is just chef's kiss even when he was annoying I definitely commend RFMC on how she handled herself and I don't think that there was As big of a push and pull as I expected but I do think that the manipulation trope was huge in this book and that was a major turn on for me I do commend the FMC in this book because I feel like she stood her ground and the manipulation trope is huge in this book but she still held true to herself even in the situation that they were in also the side characters play a big big role in this book and you just want to dive into their lives as well so I'm looking forward to thatI'm also really looking forward to the rest of the characters because of their role in this book was so huge you want more
May 28, 2024
First, you don't need to read all of the books prior to this to read this story. I wasn't sure how I was going to like it since it dealt with trafficking but the story flowed really well. Extremely steamy and dark in place. I was pleasantly surprised that Gaston wasn't unkind. I expected that from the description and yet this came down to two very stubborn people who met in a terrible way and loved each other anyway.
I am concerned that it romanticizes the trafficking aspect though and that bothers me. Also that as a psych major, Blake didn't understand herself very well and had trouble working through what she wanted. I enjoyed the book and thought the ending was terrific. The author did a great job laying the foundation of the story (and the stories of the other girls) and kept you guessing as to what would happen next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am concerned that it romanticizes the trafficking aspect though and that bothers me. Also that as a psych major, Blake didn't understand herself very well and had trouble working through what she wanted. I enjoyed the book and thought the ending was terrific. The author did a great job laying the foundation of the story (and the stories of the other girls) and kept you guessing as to what would happen next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2024
This is the 5th story in the Once Upon A Villain Series where Blake is sold to a dark possessive knight Gaston who expects to have a new slave but once their eyes meet he is taken by her and becomes more too quickly. Blake is a young college student who was taken in the previous story by the Cartel along with 3 of her friends. Gaston is a powerful man that operates in legal ways and has high expectations for Blake and she’s a woman who will push her boundaries, sometimes she enjoys the punishment and others show her more about herself then she thought possible. They both develop feelings for one another but hold back as Blake knows she’s a prisoner in a golden cage. When Blake finds herself free only to be taken by Gaston’s enemy their lives are turned upside down and along the way she discovers what’s most important in life, Love! I’m looking forward to the next story in this series…. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2024
Beast is a dark, really dark romance and touches on some sensitive subjects so any reader thinking about diving in should really heed the author’s trigger warnings.
MFC Blake was abducted along with her three friends while vacationing in Mexico and are now being trained to be sold to wealthy men.
Blake who is feisty ends up purchased by wealthy billionaire
Gaston Marques, just the kind of woman he was looking for.
Dark and dangerous he may be but after some time passes Blake is catching glimpses of what lies hidden beneath what he presents to others.
This story has many moments, twists, intrigue, and surprises that will elicit some OMG’s.
An Intense read that was written well, I did enjoy the story and how the tables were turned on one super alpha MMC by his “baby girl”.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
MFC Blake was abducted along with her three friends while vacationing in Mexico and are now being trained to be sold to wealthy men.
Blake who is feisty ends up purchased by wealthy billionaire
Gaston Marques, just the kind of woman he was looking for.
Dark and dangerous he may be but after some time passes Blake is catching glimpses of what lies hidden beneath what he presents to others.
This story has many moments, twists, intrigue, and surprises that will elicit some OMG’s.
An Intense read that was written well, I did enjoy the story and how the tables were turned on one super alpha MMC by his “baby girl”.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2024
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow, this was such a fantastic book to read it grabbed me from the start, I just couldn't put the book down. The storyline exceeded my expectations, and the characters were really amazing. This was all about Gaston, and Blake, and her friends had fallen into the hands of the Cartel that trafficked and then sold women and children at auction. Gaston is a ruthless Billionaire business man that doesn't do emotions, as a CEO of his company, he bought land and that alone could start a war with the Cartel. The chemistry was burning hot, there was action, danger, violence, enemies, trauma, anger, kidnapping, trafficking, hatred, and lots more emotions could love happen after everything Blake has endued.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow, this was such a fantastic book to read it grabbed me from the start, I just couldn't put the book down. The storyline exceeded my expectations, and the characters were really amazing. This was all about Gaston, and Blake, and her friends had fallen into the hands of the Cartel that trafficked and then sold women and children at auction. Gaston is a ruthless Billionaire business man that doesn't do emotions, as a CEO of his company, he bought land and that alone could start a war with the Cartel. The chemistry was burning hot, there was action, danger, violence, enemies, trauma, anger, kidnapping, trafficking, hatred, and lots more emotions could love happen after everything Blake has endued.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 15, 2025
I’m rounding this up from 4.25. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator is fantastic. I’m a sucker for duet style narration.
This is the first standalone at I listened to in this interconnected series and learned the book before is when the girls get kidnapped. The next two are about the other friends.
I hated the relationships the secondary characters have towards the end with the men they choose. I’m not sure if I can listen to the next two books because it’s about the secondary characters.
This book is so damn spicy and Corvin King’s voice will make your panties melt. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 Spice. Lots of long graphic scenes.
As much as I enjoyed this book and recommend it, this is a one a done for me. There are few books that I’ll
Go back and listen to again but this isn’t one of them BUT I have zero regrets!
This is the first standalone at I listened to in this interconnected series and learned the book before is when the girls get kidnapped. The next two are about the other friends.
I hated the relationships the secondary characters have towards the end with the men they choose. I’m not sure if I can listen to the next two books because it’s about the secondary characters.
This book is so damn spicy and Corvin King’s voice will make your panties melt. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 Spice. Lots of long graphic scenes.
As much as I enjoyed this book and recommend it, this is a one a done for me. There are few books that I’ll
Go back and listen to again but this isn’t one of them BUT I have zero regrets!
May 31, 2024
I enjoyed this story. I have to say it is a dark, quite dark story and it may have triggers for some people. We follow Blake and Gaston. Blake is kidnapped with her friends during a holiday in Mexico, they are prepared for an auction and Blake is the one who fights back and won't take anything. And during the auction, Blake is chosen by Gaston and he comes home from a rude awakening. Because he's used to obedience and total control and domination, but Blake is a foil to that. It doesn't take long before sparks fly and Blake sees a different side of him than he shows to others. I can recommend this book if you like romantic books with a dark edge.
I received an Advance Reader sample of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received an Advance Reader sample of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
May 31, 2024
Raw, gritty decadence from beginning to end! Blake is inundated with mind numbing thoughts and emotions about her captor. Gaston is sex personified: dominant, dirty talking, and focused on making her belong to him. She is fiery, intelligent, and is submissive to his dark, twisted desires. Bianca Cole created a fascinating mixture of captivity vs free will that would be frustrating for most, but it’s complicated even more by this couple’s deep connection. The triggers should be noted: the story is disturbing on a psychological level. I love the idea of Gaston learning to love and if anyone could be the one I’d bet on Blake!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2024
When Blake, Alice, Luna, and Kali go to Mexico for college spring break, they never dreamed they would be kidnapped by human traffickers and held for sale. Alice and Taren's story was in the previous book and this is about Blake and Gaston. When Gaston buys Blake, all she can do is plan her eventual escape and saving her friends. But Gaston has become obsessed with her and will do anything to keep her safe, and win her heart and soul....even it he must set her free. The characters are compelling, the storyline well paced, full of sizzle, steam, action, drama, twist, and so much more. We need to know Kali & Luna's stories and I can't wait for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 6, 2024
Blake & Gaston’s story
This book is a dark mafia tale about a wealthy and powerful businessman Gaston who purchased a beautiful college woman from the Red Queen. Gaston is an Alpha Male in every way possible but he is not abusive in his caring of Blake. She pulled him in the moment he saw her. I did like that the author did not change the alphas in these two books that I have read. She held true to the storyline, plot, but let them have redeeming qualities towards their women. I believe that you really do have to read the book before this one so that you get the complete picture of what happened to four college students on spring break in Mexico. They were at the wrong place at the wrong time by the Navarro Cartel. Read On!
This book is a dark mafia tale about a wealthy and powerful businessman Gaston who purchased a beautiful college woman from the Red Queen. Gaston is an Alpha Male in every way possible but he is not abusive in his caring of Blake. She pulled him in the moment he saw her. I did like that the author did not change the alphas in these two books that I have read. She held true to the storyline, plot, but let them have redeeming qualities towards their women. I believe that you really do have to read the book before this one so that you get the complete picture of what happened to four college students on spring break in Mexico. They were at the wrong place at the wrong time by the Navarro Cartel. Read On!
May 30, 2024
Blake and her friends are kidnapped and being grooms for a slave auction to the wealthiest men as sex slaves. Blake is bought by Gaston Marques, Mexico's most feared billionaire. He's dark, he's dangerous. I love how he's all clod and uncaring, yet we see a softer side of him too. Poor Blake can't help falling for her captor, but her mind says it's all wrong, she's not free how can she have feeling for Gaston. Can he let her inside his heart? Can he allow himself to be vulnerable in his world where danger exists? Will he ever set her free to return his love of her own free will? I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2024
Oh what a dark, twisted web Bianca weaves!
I feel horrible for Blake as she is captured with her 3 girlfriends while on vacation in Mexico which is further compounded by not having her meds to help handle it. Enter Gaston who purchases her to keep as his personal possession, but there is something about Blake that feels different from the start unlike his prior purchases. The two square off in a battle of the wills, though Gaston wants Blake to ask for it. Despite blazing interludes, when her friend comes to rescue her will Gaston let her go? Will Gaston win Blake’s heart? Will Gaston’s enemy get what he wants? You have to read to find out!
I feel horrible for Blake as she is captured with her 3 girlfriends while on vacation in Mexico which is further compounded by not having her meds to help handle it. Enter Gaston who purchases her to keep as his personal possession, but there is something about Blake that feels different from the start unlike his prior purchases. The two square off in a battle of the wills, though Gaston wants Blake to ask for it. Despite blazing interludes, when her friend comes to rescue her will Gaston let her go? Will Gaston win Blake’s heart? Will Gaston’s enemy get what he wants? You have to read to find out!
June 1, 2024
Kidnapping ✔️
Trafficking ✔️
Instant connection ✔️
Dominant ✔️✔️
Erotic as all get out 🔥🔥
This story has it all as two people who shouldn’t fall in love, yet do. Blake is a spitfire that Gaston wants to own. He sorta does, but not in the way he wants. With a lot of patience, she finally caves to his way of things and falls in love.
Couples that shouldn’t have happened and shouldn’t work absolutely do.
I love the emotional connection to these characters and then continuation of each girls journey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Trafficking ✔️
Instant connection ✔️
Dominant ✔️✔️
Erotic as all get out 🔥🔥
This story has it all as two people who shouldn’t fall in love, yet do. Blake is a spitfire that Gaston wants to own. He sorta does, but not in the way he wants. With a lot of patience, she finally caves to his way of things and falls in love.
Couples that shouldn’t have happened and shouldn’t work absolutely do.
I love the emotional connection to these characters and then continuation of each girls journey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2024
Don't ask me why I liked this book so much.. because I have no idea.
I've read quite a few of Cole's books in the past and honestly - I'm mostly in it for the smut. The plots are really good but the smut is excellent.
This book is.. disturbing. Which is not surprising for Cole's work since most of the mmc's are questionable. But this one took it a little far, even for me. Despite that... I loved it. Again, I don't know why. Cole's just that good of a writer I guess.
Only lost a star because of how icky it made me feel. Mostly in the beginning when she was getting pleasure during her assault from someone that wasn't the mmc.
I've read quite a few of Cole's books in the past and honestly - I'm mostly in it for the smut. The plots are really good but the smut is excellent.
This book is.. disturbing. Which is not surprising for Cole's work since most of the mmc's are questionable. But this one took it a little far, even for me. Despite that... I loved it. Again, I don't know why. Cole's just that good of a writer I guess.
Only lost a star because of how icky it made me feel. Mostly in the beginning when she was getting pleasure during her assault from someone that wasn't the mmc.
June 9, 2024
After reading the last book & the hell the girls were in this started off with Blake being sold off to Gaston.
He is a Billionaire with a dark side that leaves Blake in fear of the torture he will put her through, he's vicious & possessive.
We see sides to both these characters who are afraid of each other but for different reason leading to drama, dark, torment, mega steamy & emotional which will leave you unable to put it down.
Definitely recommend this book & can't wait to read Kali's story which I know is going to be a roller coaster.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
He is a Billionaire with a dark side that leaves Blake in fear of the torture he will put her through, he's vicious & possessive.
We see sides to both these characters who are afraid of each other but for different reason leading to drama, dark, torment, mega steamy & emotional which will leave you unable to put it down.
Definitely recommend this book & can't wait to read Kali's story which I know is going to be a roller coaster.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2024
Definitely a must read from the start of the series but you get the gist of what has happened and why Blake and her 3 friends have landed in the hands of traffickers and how Blake ends up being bought by Gaston who is smitten with Blake from the get go.
Blake is a horny flake lol that's just how I see her she has ADHD and isn't on meds so her brain is going a mile a minute and any chance she gets she seeks that natural high.
The fact that Blake has everything at her fingertips with Gaston she still wants her freedom and when he gives her that he follows but you can't dodge every bad guy alone.
Great story and can't wait for Matias book
May 25, 2024
This book was marvelous, amazing, and just great. I could not read this book fast enough. I was drawn into this dark world that Bianca Cole has created and I did not want it to end. This book follows Blake and Gaston through their terrible beginnings to an extraordinary happily ever after. This book has action and steamy romance, I very much enjoyed the balance in this book. Cannot wait for the next book..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2024
I enjoyed Gaston and Blake's book a lot. This series is giving a variety of stories about a group of friends. I loved how Gaston and Blake formed what felt like a real relationship, and I am happy they got their HEA. My reason for taking off a star may seem trivial, but the MMC name being Gaston bothered me. I understand using it in a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but the name is French, and Gaston is in the cartel; this would not be his name. It is also an awful name and having to read it 585 times was painful.
June 1, 2024
Sold to Gaston
Blake and her friends were kidnapped while on vacation and then trafficked by the cartel. She ends up being sold to Gaston who is grumpy as much as he is handsome. While he was expecting immediate obedience her feisty and stubborn behavior tends to get in the way of their possible future together. Their steamy interactions felt like they were burning off the pages and the plot was suspenseful as well as exciting to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Blake and her friends were kidnapped while on vacation and then trafficked by the cartel. She ends up being sold to Gaston who is grumpy as much as he is handsome. While he was expecting immediate obedience her feisty and stubborn behavior tends to get in the way of their possible future together. Their steamy interactions felt like they were burning off the pages and the plot was suspenseful as well as exciting to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2024
Beast is the fifth book in the Once Upon a Villain Series by Bianca Cole. This dark, billionaire mafia romance explores themes that may be disturbing to some readers. No cliffhanger and a happily-ever-after ending means this book can be read as a standalone. Beast is Gaston and Blake's story. I love the emotional connection to these characters and then continuation of each girls journey. I loved the storyline in this book and how Bianca Cole redeemed our MMC, it was brilliant! Definitely one of my favorite in the series and definitely recommend reading this book.
June 7, 2024
Gaston and Blake. What a story. The synopsis had me. This series is to be read sooo good. The charecters from the other books make an appearrance as well. This is well written with great world and charecter building. Loved how he was able to captivate her in his world of take what you want and then let her go to wuin her back. The story has passion, danger, darkly twisted romantic, and gosh just couldnt quit reading cant wait for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2024
Not a fairy-tale
Beast is the fifth book in the Once Upon A Villain series and it is not a fairy-tale but it does have a fairy-tale ending. This is an OTT story about Blake and Gaston. Things are twisted, darker, has some potential triggers, a few things that were a bit off-putting to me, and characters that are flawed, have many layers and a few twists that you can sort of see coming but not sure if they will be there or not. Overall it was a entertaining read and a good addition to the series.
Beast is the fifth book in the Once Upon A Villain series and it is not a fairy-tale but it does have a fairy-tale ending. This is an OTT story about Blake and Gaston. Things are twisted, darker, has some potential triggers, a few things that were a bit off-putting to me, and characters that are flawed, have many layers and a few twists that you can sort of see coming but not sure if they will be there or not. Overall it was a entertaining read and a good addition to the series.
May 23, 2024
When Blake becomes captive to cartel boss Gaston, he craves her like no other and she sees his not the beast she had feared. But when he leta ago after her friends plan her escape he can't be without her and decides he'll face her in her world, but to what outcome? Well written steamy, twist in the beauty and the beast tale, engaging, captive, possesive, cartel romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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