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Beauty in the Stolen #1-3

יופי גנוב: מארז

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תאווה גנובה

איאן הארט הוא הפושע הידוע לשמצה במדינה. כמו הגנב שהוא, הוא מגיע באמצע הלילה וגונב לילה בחיי.

הוא השאיר לי מזכרות. בלגן ופחד הם המציאות החדשה של חיי. כל חיי אסתכל מעבר לכתף מהחשש שמא יחזור, כי כשהוא חטף אותי, הוא גנב יותר מכמה שעות מהזמן שלי.

את ההשלכות של הפשע שלו, איש מאיתנו לא יכול היה לדמיין. אם אני רוצה להימלט מהסיוט של חיי, אני מוכרחה להערים עליו. אם אני רוצה לשרוד, אני צריכה להערים על כל אויב שהוא הפנה כנגדי, כולל איאן עצמו, הגבר הכי מסוכן ופיקח שאני מכירה.

חיים גנובים

איאן הארט גנב לילה מחיי, אבל הוא לקח הרבה יותר. האובססיה שלו אליי, סימנה אותי.

התאווה שלו הכניסה אותי למצב בלתי אפשרי. כעת, עליי לבחור צד. אני צריכה להחליט בין טוב לרע, אלא שלא משנה במה אבחר, לכל בחירה יש השלכות איומות.

זה יכול להיגמר רק בדרך אחת – הדרך שבה כל טרגדיה נגמרת.

אהבה גנובה

פעם, גנב חטף אותי באמצע הלילה.

הוא לקח את מה שהוא רוצה, העניק לי אשליה וקרע ממני הכול, כדי לתבוע את הפרס האולטימטיבי שלו. אומנם, הלב שלי חלש פיזית, אבל המאבק לשרוד חיזק אותי. אני לא אמות בקלות כל כך. אני אתקע לו מקל בגלגלים, ואשבש את התוכניות שלו. אחרי הכול, למדתי מהטובים ביותר.

אני גוזלת בחזרה את מה שהוא גנב ממני.

816 pages, ebook

Published January 1, 2024

23 people are currently reading
51 people want to read

About the author

Charmaine Pauls

73 books1,843 followers
Charmaine loves to write dark and edgy romance that will melt both your e-reader and your heart.

She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.

When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Deborah.
3,854 reviews499 followers
July 20, 2021
This is a fabulous and outstanding trilogy.

Stolen Lust - 4.75*

I’ve been a huge fan of Ms Paul’s work since I picked up Dubious from NetGallley back in 2017.
That said this is the first book in a trilogy and I knew going in it was a cliffhanger. So last night I put my toes in the water. I thought I’d read the first chapter just to give me a taste.
Now I’d purposely avoided all reviews since and I’m at a loss as to why. I’ve noticed in the past a lot of arc readers will spoil the book for others with their reviews.
So I tentatively started reading last night. It’s now afternoon the following day and I’m struggling on a couple of hours sleep. I know, I know I’ll never learn.
Anyway I digress.
I loved this book and once I started I couldn’t put it down. My weakness is strong, intelligent preferably tattooed ruggedly handsome men. Men who want a woman so much they’ll risk everything.
In this book Ian Hart is that man. He’s dangerous but Cas is drawn to him like a moth to a flame. The otherwise meticulous Ian makes mistakes. Things he would never have done in the past but he can’t help himself he’s drawn to Cas.

“If you were mine, I’d never have left you.”

“For you?” His teeth flash in the bluish light. “Tooth and nail. I’d kill with my bare hands to protect what’s mine.”

Stolen Life - 5*

Fabulous second book. I must admit I loved the first book I sometimes the middle book in trilogy can drag a little. Well not this one.

I loved this one. Ian and Cas are perfect for each other. Ian has accepted Cas was his from the minute he saw her. Cas comes to the realisation that she’s happy with Ian and gives him her heart.
And they all lived happily ever after?
Not quite.
I hated a couple of the things Cas did towards the end even calling her stupid several times. But this is not a spoiler review so you’ll have to find out for yourselves.

On finished getting this book apparently I said “Oh you bitch” out loud. Sorry Charmaine but that’s one hell of a cliffhanger to throw at a poor unsuspecting reader.


Stolen Love - 5*

Happy?
I’m ecstatic

Stolen Lust was fabulous.
Stolen Life was brilliant.
Stolen Love was beautiful.

After the unbelievable cliffhanger (truly evil author move) on the previous book I couldn’t wait to start this. And I truly mean that, I changed my plans and dropped the book I was currently reading like a hot potato. I don’t remember ever wanting a book as much as I did this one. And it didn’t disappoint.

There’s no spoilers here so there’s very little I can say that won’t spoil it in some way.

This is another amazing series. I do love the Hart family and I’m so looking forward to Leon’s book (no inside information here just hoping we get his book. I mean seriously the author can’t leave him out although after that cliffhanger I wouldn’t put anything past her).

I loved this book, I loved Ian and Cas, the story beginning, middle and end. In other words everything.

“You’re not mine because I own you, but because you own me.” Lifting our locked hands to my chest, I place her hand over my heart. “You live in here, inside me, and you always will, no matter who comes after me or who takes my place. You’ll always be a part of me. I’ll always belong to you. That’s why you’re mine.”

I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided the author.
Profile Image for Izzie d.
4,309 reviews362 followers
July 20, 2021
Book 1.
Interesting start to a new trilogy.
A bit of a twist on the captive heroine troupe as the Hero although not a good guy he seems to genuinely care about the heroine.
Although he takes away her freedom at times, he isn't cruel, sadistic.
The Australian/ South Africa features.
Ends on a cliffhanger.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Heroine is on a date at the start, they shared a meal, she's not interested in anything else with him at all, one date was enough.
The Hero is completely taken with the heroine.
They both say it's been a while since they were with anyone else.
After he meets the heroine, the Hero turns down an offer from another woman.

Book 2
I really, really liked this book.
The book picks off exactly at the point book 1 ended.
Cliffhanger ending ready for book 3
Lovely detail about South Africa, very atmospheric, really painted a picture of the area, the wild life.
The Hero is besotted with the heroine.
The heroine has lost all her choices, he's kidnapped her, partly to save himself but also to rescue her.
I did feel a bit frustrated at the old mills and boon move, that despite the situation she can't resist when he touches her.

Huge humdinger of a cliffhanger ending.

Spoiler..
He needs to really make things up to her in book 3 if that's possible, he's crossed a line that I'm wondering if he uncross.
Hurry up book 3.

Book 3
Warning spoilers.



Series must be read in order.
Book 2 was left on a huge cliffhanger.
Book 3 starts with the heroine recovered seeking revenge.
During the separation, which is a year, neither are with anyone else.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
The Hero had arranged to have her shot, or so it appeared in the previous book.
There were some events that were skimmed over so the story starts a year later, they were some events I would have liked to see.
Revenge on Reuben, her healing by the villagers that was all pretty much predictable from book 2 but we start the story a year later so these events are told to us as happened.
She looses the baby and has to have a hysterectomy, so no more kids.
When they get together again she felt he had her shot and he felt she betrayed him.
They both get to explain.
He says he didn't ask Reuben to shoot her, he acted himself.
She gets to explain the deal with the bent police detective.
I could see his explanation that Reuben acted without his say so and there is a comment he took her out on the river so there were no bugs which considering he thought she was setting him up, okay but he seems genuinely shocked shed think he wanted her dead. I just couldn't quite understand why he did it the way he did.

The story went in a different direction to what I was expecting, sorting out the detective.

We have scenes of Damian and Lina from previous books and talk of Zoe and Maxime.
Breadcrumbs dropped for Leo's book.

Events in the book cause the heroine to realize she loves him too much to hold events against him and the Hero is totally devoted to her.

HEA.


ARC
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Cécile Smits .
1,475 reviews291 followers
July 21, 2021
Charmaine Pauls has a new trilogy in the Diamond Magnate world,and i was lucky enough to get the ARC of the first book,Stolen Lust.
I needed a minute to calm down from this rollercoaster ride before i could manage an honest review,but here it is.

Cas may have thought she was on the worst date of her life,but it was about to get worse....
On their way home,they were car-jacked,and she was forced to drive to a remote cabin.
Her kidnapper was a mix of terrifying and attractive,and she didn’t know what to do with the signals her body sent him.
Ian didn’t have that problem,and he showed her exactly what to do,even if it was only for that one night.....
Letting her go after that proved to be more difficult than he expected,and he decided to come back for one more.
The consequences of that decision uproot Cas’ life even further and she’s in big trouble.

This first part left me with a killer cliffhanger,and i know i need more!
I love Cas,she may have a tough life,but she tries to make the most of it.
When Ian swept her off her feet like that,it made her think.
About him,and why he brings out those feelings in her,in spite of the kind of man he obviously is.
Ian may be a criminal,but i love how he treats Cas with all the care he has in him.
He even does his research into her heart condition to make sure she’s ok.
The events at the end,though?
They have me worried what else can go wrong!



Stolen Life should come with a health warning,because it wreaked havoc on my heart! After Stolen Lust,i was só ready to follow Ian and Cas further down the rabbithole,to see how she felt about him taking her.
So when the ARC of Stolen Life arrived,i couldn’t wait to start reading.
What i got was a journey filled with doubts,passion and lurking enemies.

Cas needed time to adjust,to think about what Ian had done to her.
Time to think about how she really felt,and what that would mean for the rest of her life.
Finding new friends,finding a purpose helped settle her.
The care with which Ian treated her most of the time showed her she did have an effect on him.
It gave her the hope that the love she finally admitted she felt for him,was returned by him.
If only he could treat her as an equal,but it seemed she had to earn that right....
And just when she thought she was there,everything went horribly wrong.
Leaving me with one of the worst cliffhangers i’ve ever read!

I’m not going to tell you more,you need to follow their journey to find out what happened.
To feel the way their relationship grows.
To experience the devastating pain when you reach that cliffhanger.



After Stolen Life i needed Stolen Love more than my next breath,and once i got the ARC from Charmaine i tried to wait until the releasedate was a little closer.
With the emphasis on tried,because once i had it,it became só hard to resist….
I’m telling you it was calling to me….read me,don’t wait,read me now!
My heart ached with the need to get the closure i was hoping for.
And i have good news,Stolen Love gave me the perfect end to a story that captivated me from page one,and more!

After that killer cliffhanger from Stolen Life we’ve moved forward in time by a year.
Ian is grieving the loss of his beloved Cas,trying to figure out how to survive without her.
And Cas has recovered as far as she can,working on revenge against the man that took her heart and had her shot.
But from the moment they meet again,she has trouble going ahead with her plan to do to him what he did to her.
And Ian’s heart starts beating again once he sees through her disguise,only to have it nearly stop again when they find themselves under attack.
He calls the only person he can think of for help,his brother Damian.
Making sure she recovers is his priority,but making sure she stays with him is equally important.
And the way towards that goal is planning to trap the enemy,together.
Thát plan works,but what happens after is a disaster.
With no way for these two tormented souls to ever be together again…..or is there?

This was a story that grabbed me by the throat,made my heart race,and had me screaming in agony at times.
It was a story that was só heartbreaking and achingly beautiful!
It haunted me in my dreams,and had me in its clutches from start to finish.


And i secretly hope to hear more from this family…..really soon!
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
2,132 reviews192 followers
July 20, 2021
This series was spectacular! I loved it so much, but sad it's over.
Stolen Lust
Ian's story was much anticipated and Charmaine Pauls wrote his tale with intensity and passion that I could not put this book down.
There was a connection with Cas when Ian first laid his eyes on her and it became an obsession that he could not deny. His time with her put danger and complications for both their lives, and Ian hoped he would be able to walk away.
Stolen Lust was delicious and all encompassing.
Stolen Life
I was anxious to read book two in this beautiful, exceptionally written series, and Charmaine Pauls delivered in spades and with heartbreaking precision.
Cas and Ian are once again battling turmoil and outside influence. Ian is focused and zeroed in on Cas, she is "the one" for him, he has taken her with no remorse or regrets. But Cas is struggling with emotional upheaval, morals, floundering with right and wrong. Physically, she is attracted to Ian, but can she fully trust him and live the life he is providing for her?
This couple is destined to be divided, either by each other or the antagonizing people in their circle. Exactly like the river that is divided by the dam, separating the couple, to live their lives apart and with longing to be together again.
Stolen Life is all encompassing in its past, present, and future. It begs the reader to perceive the anguish, the emotion, and the devastation of love given, taken and thrown away.
Stolen Love
Reading Charmaine's stories is like literally taking a journey into the minds and feelings of her characters, into customs and cultures of a nation I have never visited but only dreamed of. Her words flow beautifully with grace and poise, and then the characters come through strong and clear.
Cas and Ian have been on a spectacular journey. Their love is strong and intense, their passion is stunningly lovely, their connection is unparalleled.
The setting for these characters is breathtakingly exquisite, Charmaine uses her beautiful words to paint the background, from the beautiful river, to the waterfalls, to the animals, I could imagine I was there listening, experiencing all those wonders. And the lore and tales of the river were superb.
I am sad this couples story is over, and I hope to see them cameo in future books like Damian and Lina and the mentions of Zoe? And what about Leon, will he be next? (I hope so)
I encourage you to embark on these stories of Hart siblings and the adventures they continue to entertain and delight this reader.
2,433 reviews22 followers
July 20, 2021
Stolen Lust
I think this story has way more going on than what we see in this first book of a trilogy. What is going on? Why is Ian mysterious? You might remember Ian from other books by Charmaine. He is definitely a dark character and so delicious. Charmaine knows how to pull into the lives of these characters. Again, these women in Charmaine’s book have everything thrown at them and they are so strong. Don’t be fooled by the actions of these people because there is always an end game and we are not shown the end game but rather dragged along with eyes wide in amazement. Anxiously waiting on part two of Cas and Ian.
Stolen Life
So going into this second part of the trilogy I had no idea what was going to happen to Cas. It is actually quite a nice story of Cas and Ian and their life with a few wrenches thrown into the mix. I loved how Cas befriended and worked with the village people farming. Oh, and how she showed Ian her shooting skills. The look of the guys’ faces, priceless. But like always Charmaine leads us into a scene where I swear I hate the male character. Ian can be nice and charming but then he can be a holy terror. I have said this before in reviews but Ian (insert the male character of the book) better do a whole hell of a lot of groveling to make up for what he did. I will just leave you with that.
Stolen Love
I had no idea how the third book in this trilogy would turn but I never saw that coming. In case you have not read book two in this set, I won’t tell you how it ended but lets just say that not everything is as it looks. Charmaine wows me every time I read a new book of hers. The suspense, the twists and turns, and the emotions are all over the place. I cried, I laughed and I hurt for these characters. Charmaine puts her characters through the ringer each and every book. I will be honest I was ambivalent about Ian in earlier books but in this series, I respected him and saw that he does have a heart. His sacrifice and devotion to Cas and her needs is something that knows no bounds. Ian and Cas have a push and pull relationship but in the end, love prevails and whew that was a wild ride, Charmaine. Thank you for taking us on it.

I read these separately and received a complimentary copy from the author.
Profile Image for Cécile Smits .
1,475 reviews291 followers
July 20, 2021
Now in a beautiful boxset,this series is one that i loved and hated at the same time.
Loved because Cas and Ian….só good together!
Hated because of the cliffhangers….which with this boxset isn’t that big of a problem anymore,since the cure is right there.
You can rip off the band-aid,and continue until the very end!

Charmaine Pauls has a new trilogy in the Diamond Magnate world,and i was lucky enough to get the ARC of the first book,Stolen Lust.
I needed a minute to calm down from this rollercoaster ride before i could manage an honest review,but here it is.

Cas may have thought she was on the worst date of her life,but it was about to get worse....
On their way home,they were car-jacked,and she was forced to drive to a remote cabin.
Her kidnapper was a mix of terrifying and attractive,and she didn’t know what to do with the signals her body sent him.
Ian didn’t have that problem,and he showed her exactly what to do,even if it was only for that one night.....
Letting her go after that proved to be more difficult than he expected,and he decided to come back for one more.
The consequences of that decision uproot Cas’ life even further and she’s in big trouble.

This first part left me with a killer cliffhanger,and i know i need more!
I love Cas,she may have a tough life,but she tries to make the most of it.
When Ian swept her off her feet like that,it made her think.
About him,and why he brings out those feelings in her,in spite of the kind of man he obviously is.
Ian may be a criminal,but i love how he treats Cas with all the care he has in him.
He even does his research into her heart condition to make sure she’s ok.
The events at the end,though?
They have me worried what else can go wrong!



Stolen Life should come with a health warning,because it wreaked havoc on my heart! After Stolen Lust,i was só ready to follow Ian and Cas further down the rabbithole,to see how she felt about him taking her.
So when the ARC of Stolen Life arrived,i couldn’t wait to start reading.
What i got was a journey filled with doubts,passion and lurking enemies.

Cas needed time to adjust,to think about what Ian had done to her.
Time to think about how she really felt,and what that would mean for the rest of her life.
Finding new friends,finding a purpose helped settle her.
The care with which Ian treated her most of the time showed her she did have an effect on him.
It gave her the hope that the love she finally admitted she felt for him,was returned by him.
If only he could treat her as an equal,but it seemed she had to earn that right....
And just when she thought she was there,everything went horribly wrong.
Leaving me with one of the worst cliffhangers i’ve ever read!

I’m not going to tell you more,you need to follow their journey to find out what happened.
To feel the way their relationship grows.
To experience the devastating pain when you reach that cliffhanger.



After Stolen Life i needed Stolen Love more than my next breath,and once i got the ARC from Charmaine i tried to wait until the releasedate was a little closer.
With the emphasis on tried,because once i had it,it became só hard to resist….
I’m telling you it was calling to me….read me,don’t wait,read me now!
My heart ached with the need to get the closure i was hoping for.
And i have good news,Stolen Love gave me the perfect end to a story that captivated me from page one,and more!

After that killer cliffhanger from Stolen Life we’ve moved forward in time by a year.
Ian is grieving the loss of his beloved Cas,trying to figure out how to survive without her.
And Cas has recovered as far as she can,working on revenge against the man that took her heart and had her shot.
But from the moment they meet again,she has trouble going ahead with her plan to do to him what he did to her.
And Ian’s heart starts beating again once he sees through her disguise,only to have it nearly stop again when they find themselves under attack.
He calls the only person he can think of for help,his brother Damian.
Making sure she recovers is his priority,but making sure she stays with him is equally important.
And the way towards that goal is planning to trap the enemy,together.
Thát plan works,but what happens after is a disaster.
With no way for these two tormented souls to ever be together again…..or is there?

This was a story that grabbed me by the throat,made my heart race,and had me screaming in agony at times.
It was a story that was só heartbreaking and achingly beautiful!
It haunted me in my dreams,and had me in its clutches from start to finish.


And i secretly hope to hear more from this family…..really soon!
Profile Image for Favourite Book Corner.
811 reviews9 followers
July 20, 2021
5* Addictive Stars

Stolen Lust

When I first started reading, I was not sure where the story of Cas and Ian would lead but after a chapter or two, I was totally captivated and have so many questions as to why things are happening the way they are!

Fair warning this is a very sexy read, the chemistry between Cas and Ian is sizzling! The authors writing was seductive and sensual!

I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Beauty in the Stolen trilogy. If you are wanting to read a quick paced, of the charts sexy romance with a dangerous hot alpha male then do not waste a minute, read this now!


Stolen Life

This is the second book in the Beauty in the Stolen Series and resumes from where book 1 ended where Cas has been kidnapped for the second time by Ian and has become his prisoner once again, this time in Zimbabwe.

The attraction between Cas and Ian is still strong and undeniably sexy with Ian being absolutely besotted with Cas. In his eyes she can do no wrong but he is also no fool! She manages to gain his trust slowly when she, of her own free will, immerses herself into the lives of the villagers helping them attend to their crops and slowly becomes one of them.

Just as their lives are aligning, complications arise and those who are meant to be trusted are the ones who are not to be trusted at all!

I devoured this second book in the series with hunger and anticipation. It was sexy and thrilling with secrets and betrayal abounding. Just when you are wanting more, Charmaine delivers the mother of all cliffhangers!!!! That ending will leave you on edge wanting more and holding your breathe until the final book is released!

I loved the descriptions of Southern Africa and its wildlife, which evoked many memories for me.


Stolen Love

The conclusion to this wonderful trilogy was a rollercoaster of a ride! It kept me on the edge of my seat as I was chasing the HEA for Cas and Ian.

When we find out what happened between Ian and Cas out on the lake, truths and misunderstanding are revealed and only through forgiveness are they able to move forward.

The love story between them is strong and fierce and even revenge has no place between them. There is so much drama and corruption that gets in the path of Cas and Ian’s journey. When the law gets in the way and all hope is gone, can the impossible happen? It will have you guessing until the end and turning the pages at a rapid rate.

What a fabulous conclusion to this exciting Beauty in the Stolen Trilogy. Another winner from the talented Charmaine Pauls.
Profile Image for Kelly Gregory.
1,848 reviews27 followers
July 25, 2021
Stolen Lust
I honestly didn't think Charmaine could better any of her previous books, but i was so wrong! This story had everything you could want from a dark romance, it was sexy, intense, had loads of action and was filled with so much suspense i just couldn't put it down!
Straight away i was drawn to Ian, he is such an alpha character and his chemistry with Cass was super hot! Ian is mysterious and you could tell he had a darkness about him, but he still wanted Cass and what he wants he gets! I loved the pull and push between them, especially towards the end of the book when Ian's actions show his true character!
I literally cannot believe the book ended the way it did and can only imagine what Ian has in store for Cass next, so i am super excited for book two!

Stolen Life
Omg!! What a book! Just when you think a story can't get any better...Charmaine gives us this!

I just love Ian and Cas so much, their chemistry is off the charts, the sex scenes scorching hot and their relationship so unique! I was rooting for them all the way BUT that ending has destroyed me! I think I am in total shock!

Charmaine you are proving to be the Queen of cliff hanger endings and book three cannot come fast enough!

This is a must read for any dark romance fans, who like a controlling possessive hero and a strong, sassy and independent heroine who is not afraid to stand up to him.

5 huge stars!!

Stolen Love
OMG....Charmaine has really out done herself with this series! So much suspense, emotion and characters I just can't forget!
I love the fact that book three picks up right where we left off from book two....that cliffhanger had my screaming at my kindle so I was more than excited to start on this the final book in the series.
This story is dark and twisted in places but I found this book quite emotional at times as well. What Cas goes through and how Ian reacts....i really loved how he fought for Cas...they just fit each other so well. I am sad that their story is over!

Charmaine is fast becoming the queen of dark romance for me...I can't wait to see what she gives us next! 5 huge stars!
Profile Image for Carissa.
3,385 reviews92 followers
July 22, 2021
Stolen Lust (Beauty in the Stolen #1)
5 stars
Ahhhh, fans of dark romance will love this one. The beginning sucked me in. So much depth to this story. I love seeing the instant attraction Ian and Cas had built despite the circumstances. Even though this story ends on a cliffy, only a month wait till the next one which I WILL be back for.

Stolen Life (Beauty in the Stolen #2)
5 stars
Another great installment to the series! Ian just seems a bit different in this part, its nice to see him ready to move forward in the relationship with Cas and not hold back. With the cliffy tha Charmaine left us, I'll be back in June to read the finale in this series! Can't wait! Love this cover!

Stolen Love(Beauty in the Stolen #3)
4 stars
What a great conclusion to this series. It did go in a different direction then I thought it would go especially with how it started, but I like the unpredictability. Series must be read in order, and I highly recommend it.

I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Profile Image for Misha.
667 reviews27 followers
January 26, 2022
4 stars

I enjoyed this. I always love the all consuming obsession that the MMC has for the FMC and Ian was so charming. There was always a second dialogue in his interactions, especially with Cas - very different from what he said out loud. I found that very clever and engaging. Their story had a lot of twists and turns, not always happy, but in the end, I was relieved to see it all work out. I liked that there were no outside influences in their story - no OW or OM - just them. Kind of reminded me of Marriage Games by CD Reiss in that way. I didn't know that was an aspect of a story that appealed to me but it does. Overall, it was a good story.

I guess I'm rating it as a 4 star because even though I enjoyed it, it wasn't all consuming. I found myself a bit distracted - took a break after book 1 and throughout book 2 and 3 - trying out other samples for books. The story felt a bit long at times, probably because this was a 3 book series and also because I felt other books calling me. That being said, I couldn't settle on a new book because I think I always wanted to go back to finish this one. The writing is solid and while I was reading, it I felt invested in their life - wanting it all to work out. I also liked how Damian's and Zoe's stories were referenced - not too obtrusive but just enough that I wanted to go read the other books about their lives.
Profile Image for isidora crni biser.
164 reviews68 followers
July 28, 2021
Stolen Lust (Beauty in the Stolen, #1)

description

"First kisses, no matter where or how they're given, are sacred. A first kiss tells everything. It tells a woman if a man is going to fuck her or make love to her. It tells her how a man is going to treat her for the rest of her life."

Charmaine Pauls is one of my favorite authors, the best in dark romance 🖤
I have fallen in love with all of her work - Loan Shark Duet, Beauty in the broken, Diamonds are forever trilogy...

Stolen Lust is perfect start of a new series. It's a first book in the trilogy.

This book is fire from start 🔥
Cassandra Joubert is headstrong, sassy, independent, passionate and admirable woman, and she is my favorite female character so far 😍
Ian Hart is criminal and leader of Phantom gang. Dangerous, mysterious, charismatic, possessive 🔥
One night will change their lives. The connection between them is fast and hot.

"He disarms me with a touch, possesses me with dominance, and terrifies me with tenderness."

Dual POV and this story is so far the lightest in Diamond Magnate series. Ends with a cliffhanger, but the sequels come very quickly.


Stolen Life (Beauty in the Stolen, #2)

The calm before the storm...

Stolen Life is book two of the Beauty in the Stolen trilogy, a continuation of Ian and Cass’s story, and it's even better than the first part 🖤

"When I see, hear, feel, and breathe him, he blinds me to the crimes I should be focusing on."

Ian Hart is a wanted criminal, kidnapper, but that doesn’t stop Cass from falling in love with him. She accepts him as he is, she is willing to risk and sacrifice everything.

"He has the magic ability to make me think with my heart instead of my head."

I love her so much. She is strong, funny, sensitive, stubborn, sexy.

"I’m going into this with my eyes wide open. I carry full responsibility for loving a criminal."

In this part we get to know a little more about Ian's past, his difficult childhood and a rough start when he left the family. Now he is a dangerous man, most wanted criminal.

"I’ve stolen many things in my life, a lot of money and jewels and cars, even food and books when I was younger, but I’ve never taken a person. I should be feeling a lot of things—guilt, remorse, and disgust—but all I feel is the sweet taste of possession.

They are slowly building trust, their bond is getting stronger and stronger. They live an ordinary life, geting used to each other. But danger knocks on their door and trust is dangerously shaken.

The ending is tense and shocking 😲🥺 I can't wait for the Stolen Love 🔥


Stolen Love (Beauty in the Stolen, #3)

description

This was me at the end of the second book. That was a shocking cliffhanger. I couldn't wait for this third part to see in which direction the author will go with the story.
And it turned out better than I thought! Another great series by my favorite author 😍

description

"Love makes you blind, but so does vengance."

This is the conclusion of Cas and Ian’s story and begins a year later.
Ian is grieving, and he still thinks Cas betrayed him.
Cas is survivor, and she wants revenge.
When they meet again things are not what they thought they were. They have a common enemy and only together they can defeat him.

"She’s the missing link in the chain that holds me together."

Ian and Cas are amazing couple. They are equal and willing to do anything to protect each other.

"I’m not sorry for taking you that night. I’m not sorry for making love to you, and I’m not sorry for going after you again and again."

This series is amazing. Fast paced, suspensful, intense, action-packed and hot sex scene.
Dual POV and this series is so far the lightest in Diamond Magnate series.
One of my favorite scene is elevator scene with Damian and Leon 🤣🤣🤣
I can't wait for Leon's books 🖤

Beauty in the Stolen series must be read in order:
Stolen Lust (Beauty in the Stolen, #1) by Charmaine Pauls Ian Hart & Cassandra, Available now
Stolen Life (Beauty in the Stolen, #2) by Charmaine Pauls Ian Hart & Cassandra, Available now
Stolen Love (Beauty in the Stolen, #3) by Charmaine Pauls Ian Hart & Cassandra, Available now

Other books in the Diamond Magnate collection:
Standalone Novel

Beauty in the Broken by Charmaine Pauls Damian Hart & Angelina, available now

Diamonds are Forever Trilogy
Diamonds in the Dust (Diamonds are Forever Trilogy, #1) by Charmaine Pauls Zoe Hart & Maxime, available now
Diamonds in the Rough (Diamonds are Forever Trilogy, #2) by Charmaine Pauls Zoe Hart & Maxime, available now
Diamonds are Forever (Diamonds are Forever Trilogy #3) by Charmaine Pauls Zoe Hart & Maxime, available now
Profile Image for Carolyn.
307 reviews
October 21, 2023
Good Series Read

I’ve read these books before a while back. Individually I gave them each 4 stars and individually I probably still would give book one and two 4 stars however book 3 may be a 5. Either way, as a whole and reading in new phase in life they’re a 5 star series. I stand by each of my previous reviews:

Book 1: Good, intriguing read and set up of plot, story and character but personally a bit to short and ends rather abruptly to be a 5 star on its own.
Book 2: Would probably have been a 5 star alone if it weren’t for a personal yet expected peeve of mine in this genre. A “turmoil” point which negates a lot of the relationship the characters had built throughout book 1 and most of two. That said it was a 4 star.
Book 3: The conclusion this series pulls together really well, all ties knotted rather tight and without seeming “off”, rushed or far fetched.

This series overall is well crafted and I plan to read more of Charmaine Pauls writings.
Profile Image for Bookers Book.
180 reviews5 followers
February 17, 2022
Last trilogy in the Diamond Magnate Novels- recommended read- vanilla, m/f, monogamy, enemies to lovers, 3/5 spice

This trilogy in the series was very plot heavy and didn’t have enough erotic scenes for my liking (or as much as the other books in the series have), but it was an excellent story with a lot of twists and turns. The amount this couple over came made their love story special and made the reader route for them. This trilogy keeps in theme of the rest regarding captor/captive, but is a lot tamer and less Stockholm syndromeish. This was my least favorite in the series only because of the lack of erotica and because I read the entire series backwards- this being the last of the Diamond Magnate Novels, which I read first; although it still made complete sense, it would have been better if I’d read it last because it probably hindered my feelings about it.
924 reviews4 followers
January 13, 2025
I binged the entire series in this book collection on audio. It was a very unique and interesting story line. The story grabs you from the beginning and doesnt let you go. Its not mafia, he is a criminal though. Hes dominant but not in a BDSM/TPE way. Basically the book is completely kink free - but for a vanilla book Im glad I listened to it.
Profile Image for Yvette Rivero.
2 reviews
January 25, 2022
Amazing

I could not put this book down. From beginning to end. Right when you think oh this socks for the ending the author captures you and tricks you at the end, Unbelievable.
Profile Image for Erin.
3,534 reviews80 followers
July 20, 2021
Captivating and thrilling trilogy!

STOLEN LUST: WOW! What a wild ride of emotions, thrills, suspense and highly erotic moments that kept me captivated, enthralled and very entertained right to the very intense and shocking ending.

Ian captured my heart with his dominating ways, his possessiveness, his sweetness and his ability to make me melt with all his sexy words. Cassandra is a little naive, sweet and totally badass when she wants to be. Her instant attraction to Ian is intense and undeniable. The push and pull between them and their interactions are filled with so much heat and passion that you could feel it coming off the pages. It made for one fiercely entertaining, sexy and panty melting story.

Brilliant writing that had me hooked right from the beginning as I could not get enough of these two. Filled with suspense, action, danger and twists and turns throughout that completely throw you off of what could possibly happen next.


STOLEN LIFE: Cas and Ian’s story is about to get a bit more complicated! These two continue to take us on an intense rollercoaster ride of emotional turmoil, lies and betrayal. There are so many secrets and twists throughout that at times my head was spinning with all of the different possible outcomes.

I continue to be captivated by Ian and Cas but at times they both frustrated me with their antics. They have such a fantastic and intense connection but there are so many unseen forces trying to pull them apart that it just might destroy them.

Brilliantly written with such vivid imagery that it made me feel like I was right there in Cas and Ian’s world with them. With phenomenal characters (new and old) and a storyline that is dark, twisted and sexy as hell, this is one story that will keep you on the edge.

Be ready because the story is not finished yet and this amazing author threw in one hell of an ending keeping us begging for the rest of the story!

STOLEN LOVE: What a wild and emotional ride this conclusion was! Cas and Ian had me laughing, crying and completely captivated with their passion and love for each other. I was consumed by the conclusion of their thrilling journey.

Right from the start of this story my heart hurt so badly for Cas and my hate towards Ian was bubbling over. When these two make it back to each other, we were finally given the answers that left us hanging from book 2. Cas and Ian’s connection is fragile but with perseverance, truths and actions their bond grows stronger and will eventually become unbreakable.

"You’re not mine because I own you, but because you own me...You live in here, inside me, and you always will, no matter who comes after me or who takes my place. You’ll always be a part of me. I’ll always belong to you. That’s why you’re mine.”

This is a brilliantly written trilogy that is filled with amazing characters, tons of action, a whole hell of a lot of suspense and twists that keep us on the edges of our seats, and a storyline that is captivating, thrilling and highly entertaining from beginning to end.

I loved every second of this whole series and I can’t wait to see what this amazing author comes up with next.
Profile Image for Vicki.
1,915 reviews58 followers
July 22, 2021
I read this trilogy as the individual books and think this boxset is so beautiful and perfect for new readers to binge! My reviews for the three individual books are copied below:

Stolen Lust
I really enjoyed this first book of the Beauty in the Stolen series. The hero of this series is Ian, the brother of Damian and Zoe from previous series by this author but it is not at all necessary to read those books first, this stands alone completely. I loved Ian and his sort of low-key, quiet danger vibe. The story has a slow-and steady pace that I loved, really immersing me in the build-up from Cas and Ian's first meeting to the soft cliffhanger ending of book one. I liked the gradual reveal of Ian's motivations and seeing how Cas navigated the drastic changes to her life after meeting him. As usual with this author's books I loved the setting, the South African locales really coming to life for me and making me want to know and experience more. Really looking forward to book two to see what happens next.

Stolen Life
The location stole the show in this second book of Cas and Ian's trilogy, just like I hoped it would when I was reading book one. I absolutely loved the detail of the beautiful setting and the people and way of life there, written in such a gorgeous way that really immersed me in the experience. I had the same personal frustrations I always have with characters keeping secrets and trying to handle dangerous situations on their own, decisions that always lead to consequences they think they are avoiding, but in reality, I'm sure I would do the same so really it's just being frustrated with us silly humans who never learn! I enjoy Cas and Ian's romance and intense connection to each other that makes them choose each other over everything else and love how uniquely suited Cas and her knowledge and skills are to Ian's home. With that angsty (and good) cliffhanger, I am very much looking forward to their final book - and grateful it comes out soon.

Stolen Love
Stolen Love, the third and final book in Cas and Ian's trilogy, did not open the way I thought it was going to after the cliffhanger of book two's ending, and though there were maybe some things I would have liked to have seen or some elements through the first half or so that I would have liked expanded upon, I ended up being pretty pleased with the direction the author went instead. The book has the same even-keel, slow and steady pace the whole series did, but in this finale really comes to a rather cinematic climax that I enjoyed immensely, complete with some levity from Damian and Leon (as well as hints for Leon's own potential story). Overall, I really liked the character journey Cas went on in this whole series, going from a really kind of lost place in life to fully embracing the full, colorful life she can share as equals with Ian, even if it was something she never could have imagined before.
Profile Image for R Rais.
1,563 reviews43 followers
July 20, 2021
Stolen Lust really got me lustlng over İan.

Daaang! I never want to be kidnapped so bad until İan! 😂
This man is all kind of bad you just want in your life!
And i'm so agree with Cas. İan is dangerous but dangit if his touch didn't make my engine purr 😂
The steamy scenes are hot hot hot.
The chemistry between İan and Cas are fast and mindblowing!
The pace is fast and unrelenting. You won't notice when you open the first page n the next inhale you already finish it. İts that good and seamless!

Love how Cas is so normal in her fear of the situation but manage to pull through and atleast try for her life.

And İan... This man make me question my self. Why oh why the villain always turn me on😂


Stolen Life stole my breath more than the first book.
When the first is fast pace with Cas loosing her ground and İan took control, i love how Cas stand her ground, took control of her own feelings and the things happen surround her, and how İan let her in.
Stolen Life for me is more complete in matter of perfect pace for them to see each other beyond the superficial beuty and hotness. İt also have the perfect amount of balance between İan dominant and Cas soft yet strenght. Perfect flow of how they evolve in being a couple. With the perfect amount of intense suspence from the dangerous lurking from İan's job and betrayel.
And Cas broken heart over his betrayel down the barrel of a gun?
Perfection!

Stolen Love is not suppose to make me cry, Charmaine! 😭

Following the suprising ending on book two, i'm gonna be honest and say this book start with anti climax for me.
Feel bit rush when i need to feel Cas anger and heartbreak more.
Feel only on edge when the darkness only become grey.
Feel i lost something when i was only told of what happen to the man who took the shot, but not see it in my person and in details.
Yes, i know. My vindictive heart wants blood😁

But then Charmaine keep the pace. İts fast and unrelenting. İan and Cas won't let go until i keep reading and then... My heart stop.
İ sit there, in anticipation and dread for the big bad Wolfe and bam! My fear just come alive!
Dangit to hell! Chapter 20 and not liking one bit of how thorn my heart was.

This trilogy definitly got to be read all at once. For you who wait to read them all book after they all release, congrats! You are so in for the ride.
For you who is like me who were tormented on reading one book at the time, we survive! 😂

You done it again, Charmaine! Bravo!
Profile Image for D K.
611 reviews3 followers
July 22, 2021
A MUST READ Trilogy Series for Dark Romance lovers out there!!! 5 Stars!!!
The Beauty in the Stolen Trilogy Series, comprised by books: "Stolen Lust", "Stolen Life" and "Stolen Love" written by author Charmaine Pauls, is an amazingly well crafted series that will pull you right in and not let go until the very last page!!! Like the saying goes...I am hooked; line and sinker!
STOLEN LUST: In this book, we get a small taste of the dangerously hot alpha H, Ian, and the fierce, smart and very likable h Cas. Incredibly well written book, with a very intriguing plot and ohhh...some very yummy steamy scenes!!! I finished reading it in only ONE DAY, that's how good it is :-)
STOLEN LIFE: Ian has taken an unwilling Cas to his "home base" in wild Zimbabwe. Ian wants Cas to give herself completely to him, while Cas struggles to acclimate herself to her new situation and process and accept her contradictory feelings for Ian. Charmaine has done an outstanding job of making us feel part of this story and in describing Ian and Cas' emotions, thanks to the dual POV and her superb writing skills. There is no sugar coating when depicting Ian's lifestyle and Cas' struggles as she falls more and more for Ian.
STOLEN LOVE: Ahhh...the ending, always a bitter-sweet moment...you love the ending, but you are sad it is over. The second book left us with a whopper of an ending (cliffy). I was anxiously waiting to see how this story would unfold and all I can say is WOW! The more the story progresses the more surprising it gets. It will make you go through so many emotions, you will feel like you are going to break...totally worth reading.
If you are a lover of Dark Romances like me, then you will love this new trilogy. Amazing anti-hero (Ian), a feisty, smart, self-sufficient h (Cas) and a story that will leave you breathless. BRAVO!!! This is a Standalone trilogy, but it does bring back some characters from previous books (which I loved). Don't worry, you will not need to know these characters to enjoy this trilogy. I do recommend you read Charmaine other books just because they are brilliant, like:
1) Diamonds are Forever Trilogy - Darkness Level 4/5
2) Beauty in the Broken - Darkness Level 4+/5 - One of my ultimate favorites!
3) Darker than Love - Darkness Level 4+/5 - Also, one of my favorites.
Can't name them all, so just trust me when I say they are all amazing!
But, getting back to this trilogy all I can finally say is that "I Highly Recommended it". Now go read it!! LOL :-)
Profile Image for Angela.
3,565 reviews16 followers
July 21, 2021
Stolen Lust -
While known as a "dark" writer, Stolen Lust is a more mainstream "dark" story than true "dark". There is some dubious consent, some sexy times a bit beyond, some captor craving (ie Stockholm syndrome), but for the most part this is a slower paced, get to know you, story about Ian Hart and the woman who gets caught up in his thievery. Cas is very relatable, even to being stuck on a craptastic date with no way out. Ian's criminal side is only one dimension and it's the growth of his more tender side that carries the story. Book 1 in a trilogy, so expect it to end on a cliffhanger.
Stolen Life -
While the first book wasn’t one of my favourites, I wanted to know how Cas and Ian's story would continue. And while there was some doubt in my mind about the intense attraction/insta-love feeling, this second story in the trilogy worked hard to fill in the details. The cliffhanger of book is right where we find Cas - in trouble, tranqed and now in a new country. She "rolls with the punches" and deals better with her captivity than I would. But, true to her nature, she causes a lot of drama as well. Will her bratty nature prove to be more than Ian is willing to take on? Will their unconventional relationship move forward or will it become unravelled?
Stolen Love -
is the final story in the trilogy and should be read in order to completely follow the relationship development between Cas and Ian. As former lovers, the betrayals and deceptions have caused rifts in the relationship while passion and chemistry have brought drama into their lives. But love is only a thin barrier to hatred and mistrust causes tensions. Will the reappearance of a deadly enemy bring about change? Will the danger that surrounds them bring them back together or will their unease force apart all hope?
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews163 followers
July 30, 2021
This is the perfect way to get all three books in this dark, seductive trilogy with one single click and with zero pesky cliffhanger wait times. This series is absolutely luscious. I adored Cas and Ian! Trust me when I tell you that these two deliver some major feels, swoon and heartache. I loved every single second of this high intensity, gut-wrenching, edge of your seat, cry all the ugly tears, twisty, raise your temperature, thrill ride. Also, If you fall even half as hard as I did for Ian And Cas and you find yourself intrigued by the mention of Ian's brother and sister, you should check out their stories in the other books in the Diamond Magnate collection. Beauty in the Broken (Damian) and the Diamonds are Forever Trilogy (Zoe). Each of these can be easily enjoyed on there own but I am the type of reader that likes getting the bigger picture and having all the details. So, reading them does help with that. Anyways, they are all sinfully good and I highly recommend each and every one of them if you are a fan of dark, twisty, heart wrecking and danger filled reads. I am posting a candid, freely posted review.

Profile Image for Buffyanna.
993 reviews44 followers
July 22, 2021
Charmaine Pauls seduces us once again with a stunning paragon of male lust and virility in Ian. She pairs him with yet another of her divinely strong and admirable heroines in Cas. It figures Ian couldn’t just fall for a pretty face. Cas is brave and sassy and struggling in all the ways that make Ian want to stay and stake his claim on her. The preciousness of their ephemeral encounter magnifies their desire. Beautifully written. Hauntingly memorable. Relentlessly seductive. Picking up a new Charmaine book is like taking an immersive journey into love. It never disappoints!

This fabulous trilogy is going to be one of my favourites of 2021! Now, it's in a box set so one can skip the cliffhanging!

My review of Stolen Lust: https://www.instagram.com/p/CNkWvlUH2...
My review of Stolen Life: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPCwUj8Lt...
My review of Stolen Love: https://www.instagram.com/p/CQbP1UyrS...
Profile Image for Jocelyne.
4,935 reviews22 followers
August 1, 2021
Wow! I loved it! Cassandra (Cas) and Ian's story is enthralling, intricate, and fast-paced, filled with angst, action, intrigue, secrets, suspense, and twists and turns. Ian is alpha, antihero, and dominant. Cas is a beautiful character, strong, smart, and determined. They share an instant attraction, and a sizzling chemistry. The third book is a breathtaking and emotional conclusion to this amazing Series. The cast of supporting characters is impressive. I like the Hart Brothers. I enjoyed it, and I HIGHLY recommend this Series. I need more! Charmaine Pauls never disappoints, and this Series was no exception. (The audiobook version of this Series is amazing!)
Profile Image for Sheena.
988 reviews26 followers
July 20, 2021
This was a compelling and addictive trilogy…with a dark at times seductive world and intriguing characters

I love Cas and the way her character develops and strengthens over the course of the series. She is like a phoenix rising from the ashes of tragedy. Ian is an enigma and there were times when I doubted whether these two would ever find their happy ever after.

There are shocking events and revenge plays its part, but there is also an undeniable attraction between the two protagonists, and the ending, when it comes, is perfect…I’m looking forward to reading about the fate of the next couple in this compelling world…I received advanced copies of the three books in this trilogy from the author
Profile Image for RLoves2Read.
515 reviews13 followers
July 20, 2021
One of the BEST series of 2021!!!

Charmaine Pauls captured me with book 1, Stolen Lust; I was completely addicted by book 2, Stolen Life; and book 3, Stolen Love, has left me completely love with the Beauty in the Stolen trilogy! The author came out running with this series and she blew through the finish line magnificently! There are not enough words to convey how great Cas and Ian's story was. This dark romance was full of surprises and twists, but it was also heartbreaking and very emotional. To say I was obsessed with this story would be an understatement.

I highly recommend this 5 star series to anyone who loves a dark romance!!!
4,145 reviews25 followers
July 20, 2021
Very Intense Series
Intense is the word that defines the whole series, which is at the same time steamy, violent, dark, moving, full of action, of betrayal, without ever falling into the cliché or the melodrama, while remaining a romance, from the first to the last chapter, between Ian the criminal, and Cas who is at the wrong place at the wrong time.
It’s a great romance with no pauses.
2,161 reviews14 followers
July 20, 2021
Action-packed and suspenseful, Beauty in the Stolen is a dark trilogy bursting with intrigue, drama, emotion, betrayal, heartbreak, twists and passion! Let the fun begin!
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