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Wayward Sons #3
Vicious Cycle
I’m a rabid dog that only one man can tame.
After springing me from the psych hospital, my brothers sold me to a group of assassins posing as mechanics. Forced to work in their garage, I’m biding my time, waiting for my chance to escape, this time for good. I’ve got people to kill.
The only thing in my way is Boone Calhoun, their charismatic leader. He likes to pretend he’s untouchable, but I know his weakness. A whisper here, a fleeting touch there and I’ll have him begging to please me.
Seducing my captor without falling for him should be easy, but something’s wrong. I can’t help but crave his touch, even as I hate him for it.
But I will have my vengeance against the people who hurt me. No one’s going to stop me. Not the Laskins, not the voices in my head, and certainly not the irresistible man holding me prisoner.
After springing me from the psych hospital, my brothers sold me to a group of assassins posing as mechanics. Forced to work in their garage, I’m biding my time, waiting for my chance to escape, this time for good. I’ve got people to kill.
The only thing in my way is Boone Calhoun, their charismatic leader. He likes to pretend he’s untouchable, but I know his weakness. A whisper here, a fleeting touch there and I’ll have him begging to please me.
Seducing my captor without falling for him should be easy, but something’s wrong. I can’t help but crave his touch, even as I hate him for it.
But I will have my vengeance against the people who hurt me. No one’s going to stop me. Not the Laskins, not the voices in my head, and certainly not the irresistible man holding me prisoner.
346 pages, Paperback
Published June 6, 2024
216 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
May 25, 2024
A dark MM Vigilante romance with many feels, a sweet captor, adorable dogs, an age gap (~16yrs), mental health rep, a bounty, messy (but mine) family, a wanted revenge, fun size difference, awakenings & Love... A Hate-to-Want-you to Never-Leave-me!
This was a fun ride with couple bumps, I devoured my #ARC in around 8hrs. LOVED Boone & Xion! 🥰
“Life was always one hundred percent fatal, so I figured I should live while I was alive.”
Xion (20) is wild, sorta aggressive, yearns for freedom yet hurt, vulnerable & sweet inside. He has schizophrenia, is haunted by the past 🥺.
Boone is ex-military badass, rough, cool confident yet so gentle & caring. His team's mercenary for hire & they've got morals 🙌.
X's plan to seduce his captor backfired 🤭 but X got his own avenging angel 😉. It's low angst, sweet relationship, fast paced story with drama, action! B+X are hot 🥵. The first times! Praise, Collars, Mild pet play! Kinky 😏. X+B are possessive & adorable!
A few qualms/things I wanted more of: To see their 1st meet (in War's book) in their POVs. More empathy from X's siblings 😤. I get their "love language" but more words will be nice 👀. Revenge is bloody good. I hate abusers so I want Laskins to hunt & TORTURE more of em 😈. I'll take all the bonuses 🥰 *hint. Excited for Shep's book!
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5/5
2) The Characters: 5❤️/5
3) Top feels: 😳😏🥺🤭🥰😅😁😬😟🤢😤😥😭😭🥰🤬🤔😄🐾
4) Steamy scenes: 3.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.25/5
Angst: 2.25/5 (🥺)
Dark: 3.25/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.7/5
7) Plot arc: (Captive, Sweet Love, Revenge) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5
This was a fun ride with couple bumps, I devoured my #ARC in around 8hrs. LOVED Boone & Xion! 🥰
“Life was always one hundred percent fatal, so I figured I should live while I was alive.”
Xion (20) is wild, sorta aggressive, yearns for freedom yet hurt, vulnerable & sweet inside. He has schizophrenia, is haunted by the past 🥺.
Boone is ex-military badass, rough, cool confident yet so gentle & caring. His team's mercenary for hire & they've got morals 🙌.
X's plan to seduce his captor backfired 🤭 but X got his own avenging angel 😉. It's low angst, sweet relationship, fast paced story with drama, action! B+X are hot 🥵. The first times! Praise, Collars, Mild pet play! Kinky 😏. X+B are possessive & adorable!
A few qualms/things I wanted more of: To see their 1st meet (in War's book) in their POVs. More empathy from X's siblings 😤. I get their "love language" but more words will be nice 👀. Revenge is bloody good. I hate abusers so I want Laskins to hunt & TORTURE more of em 😈. I'll take all the bonuses 🥰 *hint. Excited for Shep's book!
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5/5
2) The Characters: 5❤️/5
3) Top feels: 😳😏🥺🤭🥰😅😁😬😟🤢😤😥😭😭🥰🤬🤔😄🐾
4) Steamy scenes: 3.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.25/5
Angst: 2.25/5 (🥺)
Dark: 3.25/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.7/5
7) Plot arc: (Captive, Sweet Love, Revenge) 4.5/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5
May 31, 2024
When I first saw who this book was about, it didn't immediatelly pull me in. Xion in the other 2 books has been a character that was in the sidelines and "crazy", there wasn't a lot there basically. But I'm so glad I was wrong.
Boone was fantastic and he does no wrong at my eyes. He was the first and only one to truly be there for Xion, no one else. With that, he's basically perfect in my eyes. I loved how he waited untik Xion was the one that made the first moves, he wanted Xion to be ready for their emotional entanglement before anything else.
Xion's story was so emotional, what he went through, between the abuse and his family, that was a lot.
I have to say, I wouldn't have forgiven them so quickly as he did. I'm not saying he is blameless but he was a kid who literally had a psychotic break, no matter how many times he pushes you away, you have to keep trying. Like he was literally not on his right mind. I know the Laskins didn't about the abuse but stil, they would have known had they been there. They have so much power and for what? He's a kid strung out of his mind in drugs and you can definitely force your way in, they just didn't try. I don't care for "they were respecting him". No, the truth was it was easier for them to pretend Xion was dead or something, and that's the truth. I know am ranting but it just pissed me off. He didn't have to suffer the way he did if the Laskins had used their resources to see him and forced the bar a little. They do it in everything, why not when he needed it the most? I would be so glad if he didn't talk to the Laskins ever again except for his other two triplets, the rest of the family doesn't deserved him, f*ck them. My perspective of them totally changed and I don't know if there's anything that can change that. Especially Shepherd, I loved Shepherd in the other 2 books but in this one I f*cking hated him. I know there will be reasons to way he was willing to sell Xion wihtout a care and doesn't consider him family at all but it still hurts. We'll see where is book goes. And I desperately need Xander and Agent Valentine's book, I want to be a couple so bad, so fingers crossed.
Overall, this couple deserves the world and everyone else can go f*ck themselves for all I care
Boone was fantastic and he does no wrong at my eyes. He was the first and only one to truly be there for Xion, no one else. With that, he's basically perfect in my eyes. I loved how he waited untik Xion was the one that made the first moves, he wanted Xion to be ready for their emotional entanglement before anything else.
Xion's story was so emotional, what he went through, between the abuse and his family, that was a lot.
I have to say, I wouldn't have forgiven them so quickly as he did. I'm not saying he is blameless but he was a kid who literally had a psychotic break, no matter how many times he pushes you away, you have to keep trying. Like he was literally not on his right mind. I know the Laskins didn't about the abuse but stil, they would have known had they been there. They have so much power and for what? He's a kid strung out of his mind in drugs and you can definitely force your way in, they just didn't try. I don't care for "they were respecting him". No, the truth was it was easier for them to pretend Xion was dead or something, and that's the truth. I know am ranting but it just pissed me off. He didn't have to suffer the way he did if the Laskins had used their resources to see him and forced the bar a little. They do it in everything, why not when he needed it the most? I would be so glad if he didn't talk to the Laskins ever again except for his other two triplets, the rest of the family doesn't deserved him, f*ck them. My perspective of them totally changed and I don't know if there's anything that can change that. Especially Shepherd, I loved Shepherd in the other 2 books but in this one I f*cking hated him. I know there will be reasons to way he was willing to sell Xion wihtout a care and doesn't consider him family at all but it still hurts. We'll see where is book goes. And I desperately need Xander and Agent Valentine's book, I want to be a couple so bad, so fingers crossed.
Overall, this couple deserves the world and everyone else can go f*ck themselves for all I care
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2024
While this book is good and everything I love from Evelend, and it gets its very hard earned HEA, it is not a fluffy love story. It is chaotic and covers some very traumatic events. PLEASE read TW.
My heart goes out to Xion. He has lived a hard life and deserves so much love. And bless Boone for being that person to show him he’s more than worth it. The relationship they build out of the rubble is beautiful we get some spotlights from characters from previous books and I loved it.
Evelend did a great job with the mental health nod. The spice was spicing. There were some new dynamics I hadn’t read before but I enjoyed it.
Overall this is a great continuation of the Wayward Sons. I loved Skin Deep but this might surpass it. But please please write Xavier, Xander, Leo and FBI Daddy. I need both of those stories in my life.
My heart goes out to Xion. He has lived a hard life and deserves so much love. And bless Boone for being that person to show him he’s more than worth it. The relationship they build out of the rubble is beautiful we get some spotlights from characters from previous books and I loved it.
Evelend did a great job with the mental health nod. The spice was spicing. There were some new dynamics I hadn’t read before but I enjoyed it.
Overall this is a great continuation of the Wayward Sons. I loved Skin Deep but this might surpass it. But please please write Xavier, Xander, Leo and FBI Daddy. I need both of those stories in my life.
May 20, 2024
"I'm done running from my monsters. Now, they'll run from me."
In Vicious Cycle we get Xion and Boone's story. Xion, newly escaped from a psychiatric facility, is living with Boone in his junkyard and trying to put the pieces of his life back together. He feels abandoned by his brothers and is struggling to make sense of what happened to him in the facility. Boone is working through his own trauma and is the perfect person to stand side by side with Xion and help him find a way to heal. I won't say much about the plot to avoid spoilers- because wow a LOT happens in this book!!- but their love story is very sweet and satisfying. Even though there are dark themes in this book, it's never heavy or depressing.
"I want to be a better man, but I don't know any other way to live than this."
I traced a thumb down the side of his face. "I don't know if I'm the best person to teach you a better way. I'm not a saint either."
"I don't need you to be a saint," he said, taking my hand. "I need a sinner. Someone who understands how to navigate this darkness with me. Where I am, it's so dark even a little light helps. Be that for me, Boone. I'm scared I might slip away without it."
Vicious Cycle is third in the Wayward Sons series, which focuses on a new couple in each book. It can sort of be read as a standalone but is best enjoyed in the series order. Tropes include dark romance with found family themes. The characters find love along the way while enacting their own form of justice. I really enjoy L Eveland's writing and am excited for book #4!
Rating: 4
Angst: 3/5
Steam: 2.5/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
May 29, 2024
Vicious Cycle is book three in the Wayward Sons series. It focuses on Xian, the triplet who has been absent from the Laskin family since his psychotic break as a teenager. Xian is schizophrenic, dealing with years of sexual abuse, and feels abandoned by his family. He has been busted out of the psychiatric hospital and is being watched over by Boone, a former government backed sniper with a team of mercenaries, and baggage of his own. This is their story of falling in love and finding healing in one another as they deal with Xian's complicated past.
This is a dark romance, which means that the plot pushes a lot further than just kinky sex. It has blood, torture and gore, so pay close attention to the content warnings. I would definitely recommend reading the earlier two books in the series to familiarise yourself with the world and the characters. Plus Body Count and Skin Deep are fantastic books in their own right. Serious mental health conditions feature heavily in the main characters in each book, in a way that feels to me authentic rather than fetishised. There is no magic cure, but that doesn't make anyone less worthy of love. That said, all the characters are dark and twisted, and not representative of average people, so the schizophrenic character is equally dark.
The plot is well paced and engaging, with plenty of action, reflection, and, of course, red hot smut. Xian and Boone are drawn to each other very quickly, and there is a hint of the forced proximity trope due to them sharing Boone's trailer. I love that despite Boone essentially holding Xian against his will, he is respectful of his boundaries and mindful of Xian's triggers. It's not really a Stockholm syndrome thing, but I can see how some might read it that way.
There is a significant age gap between Boone and Xian, but everything about these characters and their lives is problematic. It's kind of the point of the genre! But instead of it creating a power imbalance, Xian more than holds his own, and his character has agency. He is not in any sense delicate or weak. I love that he can be both a vicious, snarling threat, and something much softer but still primal in intimate moments with Boone.
I loved Vicious Cycle (I did the happy dance when I got the ARC to review), and as long as you know what you are getting into with this kind of dark romance, I highly recommend it. I haven't dipped into commenting on the broader plot involving Xian's family (no spoilers from me!) but it's one of the things I really enjoyed most about the book.
Can't wait for the next in the series!
This is a dark romance, which means that the plot pushes a lot further than just kinky sex. It has blood, torture and gore, so pay close attention to the content warnings. I would definitely recommend reading the earlier two books in the series to familiarise yourself with the world and the characters. Plus Body Count and Skin Deep are fantastic books in their own right. Serious mental health conditions feature heavily in the main characters in each book, in a way that feels to me authentic rather than fetishised. There is no magic cure, but that doesn't make anyone less worthy of love. That said, all the characters are dark and twisted, and not representative of average people, so the schizophrenic character is equally dark.
The plot is well paced and engaging, with plenty of action, reflection, and, of course, red hot smut. Xian and Boone are drawn to each other very quickly, and there is a hint of the forced proximity trope due to them sharing Boone's trailer. I love that despite Boone essentially holding Xian against his will, he is respectful of his boundaries and mindful of Xian's triggers. It's not really a Stockholm syndrome thing, but I can see how some might read it that way.
There is a significant age gap between Boone and Xian, but everything about these characters and their lives is problematic. It's kind of the point of the genre! But instead of it creating a power imbalance, Xian more than holds his own, and his character has agency. He is not in any sense delicate or weak. I love that he can be both a vicious, snarling threat, and something much softer but still primal in intimate moments with Boone.
I loved Vicious Cycle (I did the happy dance when I got the ARC to review), and as long as you know what you are getting into with this kind of dark romance, I highly recommend it. I haven't dipped into commenting on the broader plot involving Xian's family (no spoilers from me!) but it's one of the things I really enjoyed most about the book.
Can't wait for the next in the series!
May 29, 2024
I received an advanced copy of this novel and I am leaving my honest review.
Let me preface this by saying, there is no way I was expecting to become so attached to Xion as quickly as I did. I went into this story with my favorites being Theo and River from the first book. However, Xion and Boone both just fit so well together that I struggled with accepting that they were my new favorite couple of the series, so far. Going into this story having a bit of background on Xion made me think it would be a struggle to relate and understand his actions and mind. Once you start going through Xion’s emotions and mental state, you almost begin to hate his family. Which is a difficult emotion to process because the series is based around the Laskin’s and their family.
All this build up is to say nothing of our new character Boone and his struggles alongside Xion. We also are introduced to his junkyard family.
We pick up after the second book when Xion has been “given” to Boone as a trade from Shepard. Xion is now working on cars in the junkyard and lives with Boone. Xion is still trying to figure out his grand escape in order to punish those who have done him wrong whilst simultaneously dealing with his own mental illness and navigating the appropriate amount of medication he requires. That’s not to say Boone isn’t dealing with his own mental struggles, but someone like Xion is able to relate to him in a way others maybe can’t. Xion and Boone’s relationship deepens significantly through a series of ups and downs, and after some serious build up, we see that Boone is someone who will never abandon Xion.
I do feel like there were times when the novel was slow, but I think that it was necessary in order for the story to be fully flushed out. We do see the setup for the next book, who I’m assuming the next story is about, throughout this story. I can’t wait for the next entry. This author is a must read for me every time they publish.
Please check the trigger warnings because this novel does have some uncomfortable topics and situations that occur off page.
Let me preface this by saying, there is no way I was expecting to become so attached to Xion as quickly as I did. I went into this story with my favorites being Theo and River from the first book. However, Xion and Boone both just fit so well together that I struggled with accepting that they were my new favorite couple of the series, so far. Going into this story having a bit of background on Xion made me think it would be a struggle to relate and understand his actions and mind. Once you start going through Xion’s emotions and mental state, you almost begin to hate his family. Which is a difficult emotion to process because the series is based around the Laskin’s and their family.
All this build up is to say nothing of our new character Boone and his struggles alongside Xion. We also are introduced to his junkyard family.
We pick up after the second book when Xion has been “given” to Boone as a trade from Shepard. Xion is now working on cars in the junkyard and lives with Boone. Xion is still trying to figure out his grand escape in order to punish those who have done him wrong whilst simultaneously dealing with his own mental illness and navigating the appropriate amount of medication he requires. That’s not to say Boone isn’t dealing with his own mental struggles, but someone like Xion is able to relate to him in a way others maybe can’t. Xion and Boone’s relationship deepens significantly through a series of ups and downs, and after some serious build up, we see that Boone is someone who will never abandon Xion.
I do feel like there were times when the novel was slow, but I think that it was necessary in order for the story to be fully flushed out. We do see the setup for the next book, who I’m assuming the next story is about, throughout this story. I can’t wait for the next entry. This author is a must read for me every time they publish.
Please check the trigger warnings because this novel does have some uncomfortable topics and situations that occur off page.
May 29, 2024
I can admit, I was worried about Xion's story. I wasn't sure how he would be redeemed based on his back story in the previous two books. I can honestly say, L Eveland did just that. I felt so bad for him. Not only did he lose his family, he went through some traumatic events while away. I'm not sure how Xion's experiences with his schizophrenia compare to real life experiences, so I can't comment on that, but now we get Xion's side of things from what happened as a teenager, and it just made me feel for all three brothers.
Loved him with Boone. They were so good together! Boone was able to help Xion heal and accepted him for who he was. He didn't expect Xion to change in order to be with him.
Not going to get into plot - you'll have to read the book for yourself to find that out - but I can say I'm left wanting more (in a good way!) I am so wanting to read Xander's and Shep's books! And the spin off series that was teased.
Highly recommend this book and this series.
Loved him with Boone. They were so good together! Boone was able to help Xion heal and accepted him for who he was. He didn't expect Xion to change in order to be with him.
Not going to get into plot - you'll have to read the book for yourself to find that out - but I can say I'm left wanting more (in a good way!) I am so wanting to read Xander's and Shep's books! And the spin off series that was teased.
Highly recommend this book and this series.
November 1, 2025
Los giros de trama que tiene esta serie me super sorprendieron. No pensé que la historia iría por el lado en el que fue. Estuvo mal? No, para nada, de hecho me gustó mucho que no fuera más de lo mismo.
Xion (AMO ese nombre) y Boone me gustaron mucho. Siento que más Xion que Boom porque sinceramente me enfoque más en uno que en el otro jaja. Su historia me gustó bastante pero no me mató, no sé porque esperaba más.
Amo ver a la familia Laskin y amo aún más ver a los trillizos por fin juntos😭.
Xion, Xander y Xavier son todo lo que está bien y necesito un millón de extras solo de ellos, por favor😭😭✨✨✨
PD: SHEPHERD, QUÉ CARAJOS??????? Necesito leer ya mismo su historiaaaaa
Xion (AMO ese nombre) y Boone me gustaron mucho. Siento que más Xion que Boom porque sinceramente me enfoque más en uno que en el otro jaja. Su historia me gustó bastante pero no me mató, no sé porque esperaba más.
Amo ver a la familia Laskin y amo aún más ver a los trillizos por fin juntos😭.
Xion, Xander y Xavier son todo lo que está bien y necesito un millón de extras solo de ellos, por favor😭😭✨✨✨
PD: SHEPHERD, QUÉ CARAJOS??????? Necesito leer ya mismo su historiaaaaa
May 31, 2024
5/5⭐️ AHHHH THEIR PROTECTIVENESS AND POSSESSIVENESS ARE SO CUTE!
May 31, 2024
Omg Xion and Boon are just as complex as each other but make an amazing pair. I totally feel for Xion in the book battling his demons is hard but Boon is there right beside him helping him through. Check your triggers but it's such a good read I love it
October 4, 2024
This is the final book in the Wayward Sons series. We get to meet Xion, the schizophrenic triplet. We also get to learn more about Boone, the head of the Junkyard Dogs mercenary group that is currently holding Xion.
Xion was busted out of a psychiatry hospital and put under Boone's care in the last book. He was to be turned over to an unknown party for a bounty of $4 million. Feelings on Boone's part sort of got in the way of that. Boone decided to keep Xion for himself. Xion's adopted family, or at least the few who knew about the bounty, weren't too happy about Boone's decision. The party who put up the bounty found out and did something about it. That's where I'm leaving this review so no spoilers.
The author gives us a HEA so things work out for the best. This is the best book in the series. The author does a great job at giving us characters that have serious depth. Xion is a deeply troubled person. There are trigger warnings that should be heeded. He spends most of his childhood undiagnosed and does some pretty horrible things, but one has to remember that he's a child who is sick. He's later carted off to a hospital where horrible things are done to him. Thus, we get more trigger warnings. This is probably one of the darkest books I've read since Poppy Z. Bright's Exquisite Corpse. We get a happy ending, but the journey is a bitch. However, I really enjoyed the book. I can't recommend it enough.
Xion was busted out of a psychiatry hospital and put under Boone's care in the last book. He was to be turned over to an unknown party for a bounty of $4 million. Feelings on Boone's part sort of got in the way of that. Boone decided to keep Xion for himself. Xion's adopted family, or at least the few who knew about the bounty, weren't too happy about Boone's decision. The party who put up the bounty found out and did something about it. That's where I'm leaving this review so no spoilers.
The author gives us a HEA so things work out for the best. This is the best book in the series. The author does a great job at giving us characters that have serious depth. Xion is a deeply troubled person. There are trigger warnings that should be heeded. He spends most of his childhood undiagnosed and does some pretty horrible things, but one has to remember that he's a child who is sick. He's later carted off to a hospital where horrible things are done to him. Thus, we get more trigger warnings. This is probably one of the darkest books I've read since Poppy Z. Bright's Exquisite Corpse. We get a happy ending, but the journey is a bitch. However, I really enjoyed the book. I can't recommend it enough.
August 8, 2024
Boone and Xion are my favorite kind of enemies to lovers! The animosity and chemistry both between them is off the charts. Xion can't trust anyone, until they combust and can no longer live without Boone. The backstory of Xion and his brothers is better explained in this book, as well as the history of how they became part of the Wayward sons. I'm very excited that L is expanding the series for the Junkyard Dogs and Lucky!
June 27, 2025
Book three of the Wayward Sons series is still burning bright. I did the happy dance when I found out Xion was getting his own book, and boy did his story deliver. The combination of Xion and Boone was nothing short of brilliant. We've got the old crew, plus some fresh blood, and I'm addicted. Next up, please and thank you, is Shepards story
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August 29, 2024Giving up for now. It's not catching me/urging me to read on, and I'm not sure why, but, I put it down months ago and not been inspired to keep going yet, so, gonna try again when I'm in the mood. I LOVED the first book in this series, but 2 and now 3 haven't engaged me. Not sure why.
May 29, 2024
Where do I even begin? Of course I was really excited to read this book, I have been eagerly awaiting its release, but I will admit part of me was still hesitant. I wasn’t due I would be able to like Xion as a character after the whole Xander/puppy incident. But I swallowed my doubts. At this point, I trust L Eveland implicitly. Their previous works have never let me down, so why should this be any different?
I’m glad I took the plunge. From the get-go, Xion had me hooked. His struggles with schizophrenia, his complicated past—it’s like L Eveland ripped open every fear and doubt to lay them bare on the page. And yeah, hearing his story was tough to read at times, (I talking about you chapter 7) but it was also strangely cathartic. I never appreciate a character more than when I get to read about what makes them human.
And then there’s Boone. He has his own troubled soul, and was not at all what I would have expected. Underneath that gruff exterior beats a heart of gold, and nowhere is that more apparent than in his relationship with Xion and the rest of the Junkyard Dogs.
Watching him lead, seeing how much he cares about them—it’s nothing short of inspiring. And sure, he’s not perfect. Far from it, actually. But I also think that’s what makes him such an incredible character. He’s real, flaws and all, and in a world full of facades and pretense, that’s pretty damn refreshing.
Then there’s the whole deal with the Laskins (especially Annie) Man, I want to hate all of them so bad for how dirty they did Xion when he needed them most. But L Eveland’s got this way of humanizing even the most anger inducing characters. Throughout this whole story, I found myself questioning everything I thought I knew about who was good and who was evil. It really goes to show how much circumstances matter.
Then amidst all the chaos and darkness, there’s this beacon of light: Xion and Boone. Their relationship is... well, it’s everything. Watching them navigate the ups and downs, the twists and turns—it’s like witnessing salvation. ( I also want to mention I loved meeting Trixie and Morticia, Xion getting to love on them and see unconditional love from both Boone and his dogs made a big difference in humanizing him.)
What truly sets L Eveland and their stories apart from all other authors is their ability to breathe life into flawed yet relatable characters, while building a world that swallows you whole from the first page to the last. It’s like stepping into another dimension, one where every character, every setting, feels so vivid, a feeling of being completely immersed in a world that’s not your own.
So here I am, at the end of it all, feeling equal parts exhausted and exhilarated. "Vicious Cycle" reminds me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. An escape to a world completely different from my day to day, where anything can happen. I can not speak highly enough about L Eveland and every page they write. I am so excited for the next Wayward Sons of course, but I am also eagerly anticipating the Junkyard Dogs story as well. Can’t get enough.
I’m glad I took the plunge. From the get-go, Xion had me hooked. His struggles with schizophrenia, his complicated past—it’s like L Eveland ripped open every fear and doubt to lay them bare on the page. And yeah, hearing his story was tough to read at times, (I talking about you chapter 7) but it was also strangely cathartic. I never appreciate a character more than when I get to read about what makes them human.
And then there’s Boone. He has his own troubled soul, and was not at all what I would have expected. Underneath that gruff exterior beats a heart of gold, and nowhere is that more apparent than in his relationship with Xion and the rest of the Junkyard Dogs.
Watching him lead, seeing how much he cares about them—it’s nothing short of inspiring. And sure, he’s not perfect. Far from it, actually. But I also think that’s what makes him such an incredible character. He’s real, flaws and all, and in a world full of facades and pretense, that’s pretty damn refreshing.
Then there’s the whole deal with the Laskins (especially Annie) Man, I want to hate all of them so bad for how dirty they did Xion when he needed them most. But L Eveland’s got this way of humanizing even the most anger inducing characters. Throughout this whole story, I found myself questioning everything I thought I knew about who was good and who was evil. It really goes to show how much circumstances matter.
Then amidst all the chaos and darkness, there’s this beacon of light: Xion and Boone. Their relationship is... well, it’s everything. Watching them navigate the ups and downs, the twists and turns—it’s like witnessing salvation. ( I also want to mention I loved meeting Trixie and Morticia, Xion getting to love on them and see unconditional love from both Boone and his dogs made a big difference in humanizing him.)
What truly sets L Eveland and their stories apart from all other authors is their ability to breathe life into flawed yet relatable characters, while building a world that swallows you whole from the first page to the last. It’s like stepping into another dimension, one where every character, every setting, feels so vivid, a feeling of being completely immersed in a world that’s not your own.
So here I am, at the end of it all, feeling equal parts exhausted and exhilarated. "Vicious Cycle" reminds me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. An escape to a world completely different from my day to day, where anything can happen. I can not speak highly enough about L Eveland and every page they write. I am so excited for the next Wayward Sons of course, but I am also eagerly anticipating the Junkyard Dogs story as well. Can’t get enough.
June 4, 2024
Slightly Less Blood, but Still Just as Good!
I’m gonna be honest I wasn’t sure how this book was gonna go. Considering Xion’s traumas and condition as well as how he’s been presented in the books so far I was intrigued to see how he would be handled and redeemed. Because of all of these things, I would say this book definitely has a more serious tone and there is a bit more suspenseful and tearful moments as well. All that being said, I still loved this book just as much as the others and appreciated the seriousness with which Xion’s schizophrenia was taken (especially considering all of the misinformation that has been spread through mainstream media).
I would also say this book has been the least dark relationship-wise. Despite the set-up from the previous book which seemed to imply a more rigorous puppy play aspect that had a more dark dub-con feel I found their relationship to be pretty wholesome. And I am glad for it! Xion definitely needed Boone’s protective kindness to flourish and I don’t think it would have worked any other way.
The puppy play aspect and general kinkiness was definitely a plus though! This one did not disappoint on that end despite the overall tone of the book being a little more serious. It does take a bit longer to get into the spicy scenes because of Xion’s trauma (completely understandable) so I rated it slightly lower in that aspect but the scenes themselves are still spicy as ever.
This one was also probably the least gory (less torture scenes) but please do still heed the triggers!
Overall, I loved Boone and Xion’s story and can’t wait to read the next one in this series (a lot of potential set-ups for the rest of the brothers!) as well as Church’s story in the new spin-off series—I am really looking forward to those because I loved the Junkyard Dogs and can’t wait to learn more about them!
Overall Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 (5)
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3)
Fluff Rating: 🧸🧸 (2)
⚠️Possible spoilers below———⚠️
Content/Trigger Warnings (provided by author):
Human trafficking, Auditory hallucinations, Brief mention of self-harm, References to an off-page suicide, Flashback to a deadly car accident, Alcoholis, (main character struggling with), Death of a parental figure (referenced not shown), Child abuse and SA in a psychiatric setting (past), Child abandonment (past), Torture of antagonists, Underage alcohol consumption, Animal death (Puppy), PTSD, Forced orgasms/overstimulation, Puppy play, Breath play/choking, Serious injury/Traumatic brain injury of a main character, Kidnapping and imprisonment
Kinks:
Puppy play, Praise kink, Exhibitionism, Choking, D/s, Biting/marking
Tropes:
Age gap, Forced proximity, Roomates, Captor/captive, Insta-love, Touch him and die, Possessive boyfriends, Vengeance as a love language, Pets (Dogs)
I’m gonna be honest I wasn’t sure how this book was gonna go. Considering Xion’s traumas and condition as well as how he’s been presented in the books so far I was intrigued to see how he would be handled and redeemed. Because of all of these things, I would say this book definitely has a more serious tone and there is a bit more suspenseful and tearful moments as well. All that being said, I still loved this book just as much as the others and appreciated the seriousness with which Xion’s schizophrenia was taken (especially considering all of the misinformation that has been spread through mainstream media).
I would also say this book has been the least dark relationship-wise. Despite the set-up from the previous book which seemed to imply a more rigorous puppy play aspect that had a more dark dub-con feel I found their relationship to be pretty wholesome. And I am glad for it! Xion definitely needed Boone’s protective kindness to flourish and I don’t think it would have worked any other way.
The puppy play aspect and general kinkiness was definitely a plus though! This one did not disappoint on that end despite the overall tone of the book being a little more serious. It does take a bit longer to get into the spicy scenes because of Xion’s trauma (completely understandable) so I rated it slightly lower in that aspect but the scenes themselves are still spicy as ever.
This one was also probably the least gory (less torture scenes) but please do still heed the triggers!
Overall, I loved Boone and Xion’s story and can’t wait to read the next one in this series (a lot of potential set-ups for the rest of the brothers!) as well as Church’s story in the new spin-off series—I am really looking forward to those because I loved the Junkyard Dogs and can’t wait to learn more about them!
Overall Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 (5)
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3)
Fluff Rating: 🧸🧸 (2)
⚠️Possible spoilers below———⚠️
Content/Trigger Warnings (provided by author):
Human trafficking, Auditory hallucinations, Brief mention of self-harm, References to an off-page suicide, Flashback to a deadly car accident, Alcoholis, (main character struggling with), Death of a parental figure (referenced not shown), Child abuse and SA in a psychiatric setting (past), Child abandonment (past), Torture of antagonists, Underage alcohol consumption, Animal death (Puppy), PTSD, Forced orgasms/overstimulation, Puppy play, Breath play/choking, Serious injury/Traumatic brain injury of a main character, Kidnapping and imprisonment
Kinks:
Puppy play, Praise kink, Exhibitionism, Choking, D/s, Biting/marking
Tropes:
Age gap, Forced proximity, Roomates, Captor/captive, Insta-love, Touch him and die, Possessive boyfriends, Vengeance as a love language, Pets (Dogs)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Well it’s no surprise that I loved “Vicious Cycle” by L Eveland. When I started this series I KNEW I was going to become obsessed and absolutely feral for the characters and the entire story line. Xion. One of the triplets. Boy oh boy. I have been waiting to get into his world and this book did not disappoint. It was everything I was hoping for and more!
I am certainly a black romance baddie and this series is perfect for a reader like me. Not only that, but the character development, the plot, the twists and turns? I ate it all the way up. The X triplets (that’s my new name for them) are each complicated in the own right, but Xion suffers from schizophrenia and has been locked away in a facility for six long years. He was broken out of the facility, rabid and mad at the world, by his older brothers and put into the care of Boone, a mercenary that the Laskin family knows well. Boone is… well, Boone is a cheeky little mess and I love him for it. He lays one eye on Xion and is like “yup. I will call him puppy because he has those puppy dog eyes” and immediately knew he wanted him. He lives in the junkyard where his junkyard business is with his team, his found family. He seems like very surface level at first, wild as well, but as we get deeper and deeper into his story, his monster match Xion’s - which is why they are a complete match. Takes Xion a hot minute to get there but once he does, the possessiveness they both feel towards each other? *chefs kiss*
Before even really getting into the details of Xion and Book, I knew their story would be heartbreaking and the HEA would be hard won. I really thought that L Eveland treated Xion’s mental illness with care and the research and time put into it shows. Boone struggles with intense grief and uses alcohol as a way to cope. It’s messy but again.. handled with care. These two were written to be the other’s missing piece, their soulmate, the one who quiets the noise. I fell in love with them INSTANTLY.
L Eveland is just brilliant in writing the hard, gritty, bloody, stories that are additive as hell. Now, I know I have to wait for book 4 (and no I am not happy about it 🤣) but I am PRAYYYYIIIINNNNGGGG it’s another one of the triplets because they are a hurricane heading for shore and I don’t want to run for cover!
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆:
✨ MM dark romance
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Age gap/size difference
✨ Found family
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Hurt/comfort
✨ Obsessive/possessive MCs
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Mental health rep
⭐️ alllllll the red 🚩
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Well it’s no surprise that I loved “Vicious Cycle” by L Eveland. When I started this series I KNEW I was going to become obsessed and absolutely feral for the characters and the entire story line. Xion. One of the triplets. Boy oh boy. I have been waiting to get into his world and this book did not disappoint. It was everything I was hoping for and more!
I am certainly a black romance baddie and this series is perfect for a reader like me. Not only that, but the character development, the plot, the twists and turns? I ate it all the way up. The X triplets (that’s my new name for them) are each complicated in the own right, but Xion suffers from schizophrenia and has been locked away in a facility for six long years. He was broken out of the facility, rabid and mad at the world, by his older brothers and put into the care of Boone, a mercenary that the Laskin family knows well. Boone is… well, Boone is a cheeky little mess and I love him for it. He lays one eye on Xion and is like “yup. I will call him puppy because he has those puppy dog eyes” and immediately knew he wanted him. He lives in the junkyard where his junkyard business is with his team, his found family. He seems like very surface level at first, wild as well, but as we get deeper and deeper into his story, his monster match Xion’s - which is why they are a complete match. Takes Xion a hot minute to get there but once he does, the possessiveness they both feel towards each other? *chefs kiss*
Before even really getting into the details of Xion and Book, I knew their story would be heartbreaking and the HEA would be hard won. I really thought that L Eveland treated Xion’s mental illness with care and the research and time put into it shows. Boone struggles with intense grief and uses alcohol as a way to cope. It’s messy but again.. handled with care. These two were written to be the other’s missing piece, their soulmate, the one who quiets the noise. I fell in love with them INSTANTLY.
L Eveland is just brilliant in writing the hard, gritty, bloody, stories that are additive as hell. Now, I know I have to wait for book 4 (and no I am not happy about it 🤣) but I am PRAYYYYIIIINNNNGGGG it’s another one of the triplets because they are a hurricane heading for shore and I don’t want to run for cover!
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆:
✨ MM dark romance
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Age gap/size difference
✨ Found family
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Hurt/comfort
✨ Obsessive/possessive MCs
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Mental health rep
⭐️ alllllll the red 🚩
June 1, 2024
Full disclosure, I was low-key nervous for this book. From reading the previous books in the series, I didn't care much one or another for Boone, and I thought there was no way that L could redeem Xion enough that I'd want anything to do with him... but they did! This book made my heart hurt for Xion and cheer that he found his perfect person in Boone.
Despite the significant age gap (or rather, probably because of it) Boone and Xion worked really well together. I think Boone being a twin with a complicated relationship with his brother and family helped him understand Xion in a way no one else could have. He really gave Xion everything he needed.
Xion is tortured by his own brain and his traumatic past. His are probably the most complex mental illnesses L has written so far (since we haven't gotten Shepherd's book yet). I found the portrayal of his struggles to be authentic and realistic. Add on all the trauma this poor boy has suffered, and he needed someone who could shower him with the love, acceptance, patience, and structure that he so desperately needed.
It's hard to write a full review of this one without giving away any spoilers, but we get glimpses of pretty much everyone in this story and meet some interesting new characters, people I loved to love and others I love to hate, and I can't wait to see what L does with all of them. I know now to trust the process!!
The only parts of the story that I struggled with were how easily the triplets re-bonded. I was really surprised the other two accepted Xion in the way that they did. I thought that process would be more of a struggle. Throughout the series, I have had a hard time liking Annie and Yuri. Though Yuri was barely in this one and didn't talk to Xion at all (which surprised me), so I can't really comment on him. But Annie made me angry. She gave some pretty weak excuses as to why she gave up on Xion so easily and I felt like Xion forgave her too quickly. I also liked Shepherd in books one and two and really hated him in this one, which I think was by design. He has his reasons for his behavior, which we will see in the next book. I'm just reminding myself to trust L because they made me love Xion when I was certain I couldn't.
There are several psychopath vigilante justice books out there, but this series is so unique, not only because L writes characters with mental illnesses that few other authors have dared to attempt, and they do it well. I can't wait for more of this series.
Despite the significant age gap (or rather, probably because of it) Boone and Xion worked really well together. I think Boone being a twin with a complicated relationship with his brother and family helped him understand Xion in a way no one else could have. He really gave Xion everything he needed.
Xion is tortured by his own brain and his traumatic past. His are probably the most complex mental illnesses L has written so far (since we haven't gotten Shepherd's book yet). I found the portrayal of his struggles to be authentic and realistic. Add on all the trauma this poor boy has suffered, and he needed someone who could shower him with the love, acceptance, patience, and structure that he so desperately needed.
It's hard to write a full review of this one without giving away any spoilers, but we get glimpses of pretty much everyone in this story and meet some interesting new characters, people I loved to love and others I love to hate, and I can't wait to see what L does with all of them. I know now to trust the process!!
The only parts of the story that I struggled with were how easily the triplets re-bonded. I was really surprised the other two accepted Xion in the way that they did. I thought that process would be more of a struggle. Throughout the series, I have had a hard time liking Annie and Yuri. Though Yuri was barely in this one and didn't talk to Xion at all (which surprised me), so I can't really comment on him. But Annie made me angry. She gave some pretty weak excuses as to why she gave up on Xion so easily and I felt like Xion forgave her too quickly. I also liked Shepherd in books one and two and really hated him in this one, which I think was by design. He has his reasons for his behavior, which we will see in the next book. I'm just reminding myself to trust L because they made me love Xion when I was certain I couldn't.
There are several psychopath vigilante justice books out there, but this series is so unique, not only because L writes characters with mental illnesses that few other authors have dared to attempt, and they do it well. I can't wait for more of this series.
May 23, 2024
This is a 4.5 for me and it was sooooo good. Of the 3 books in the series, I think this is my favorite one. In books 1 & 2 Xion is portrayed as this unhinged and super dangerous character that was never to be trusted that made even the sociopaths in the family nervous to be around. So, I was really curious how this book was going to go and omg I loved every moment of it. It wasn't even a redemption story but rather finding out who Xion really is and what his story actually is, and it just made my heart break for him and even a little upset at his family for how they have treated him and, in a way, abandoned him. I loved Boone and his in a way calming and settled energy and how it complemented Xion and grounded him a little and just made him start to feel safe overtime. I loved the chemistry between the two and the spice in this book was sooo good. The plot was also really well done and kept me really entertained and I probably could have finished the book in a day if I had the opportunity. I can't wait to see what the author has planned for the installment, but this is such a sold and entertaining series that I know it will be good as well especially as I think we got some really good glimpses into the personal lives of the remaining brothers.
This book is about Xion who after being taken from the psych facility he was in was given to a group of mercenaries by his brothers. Now he is being forced to work in garage and live in a trailer with these two giant dogs. But don't worry Xion is planning and plotting his escape, because once he does, he has plans to hurt those who hurt him and finally be free for the first time in his life.
Unfortunately, a certain chain-smoking red head by the name of Boone is standing in his way of that freedom. But Xion isn't too worried as he sees the way Boone looks at him so seducing him shouldn't be too hard, but the problem is as much as Xion hates Boone he can't seem to get him off his mind which is saying something with all the noise and voices that scream at him from inside his head. But he is not going to let anything get in the way of his vengeance.
I received a free arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about Xion who after being taken from the psych facility he was in was given to a group of mercenaries by his brothers. Now he is being forced to work in garage and live in a trailer with these two giant dogs. But don't worry Xion is planning and plotting his escape, because once he does, he has plans to hurt those who hurt him and finally be free for the first time in his life.
Unfortunately, a certain chain-smoking red head by the name of Boone is standing in his way of that freedom. But Xion isn't too worried as he sees the way Boone looks at him so seducing him shouldn't be too hard, but the problem is as much as Xion hates Boone he can't seem to get him off his mind which is saying something with all the noise and voices that scream at him from inside his head. But he is not going to let anything get in the way of his vengeance.
I received a free arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2024
These books are so good for people who like the idea of dark romance but don't like some of the tropes that often go along with them. They're written on the darker, spicy side with plenty of loose morals and anti-heros, but they also come with heapings of consent and obvious love between the couple.
I really appreciate the care the author takes with such sensitive and heavy subjects. These aren't easy subjects to handle, especially in dark romances where it's easy to glorify them. It is always very clear this author cares about the matters they are writing about. Also dark romances that put a premium on consent the way this series does are, in my opinion, a very rare find and really really nice to read. I can enjoy the romance without inevitably cringing and overlooking some things when the spice comes along (I mean NO shame to anyone who does enjoy those types of books). Nothing feels slimy.
Puppy play is listed as a kink but honestly it is very very light, if it isn't your thing I wouldn't let it keep you from reading the book. It's mainly just Boone's nickname of Pup for Xion. Xion and Boone are great together, I was dubious about the pair and even about someone fitting with Xion at all since he's such a deep and complex character, but I was so pleasantly surprised. His story was everything I was hoping for and I'm happy he found Boone.
I will say Algerone as a character didn't really make sense to me, he seemed to contradict himself at times, but I'll be eager to see more of him in the other triplet books. I'm so freaking excited for Shepard's book, it seems like an incredibly difficult task to capture Shepard in a story, but I thought the same of Xion and L. Eveland executed Vicious Cycle beautifully, so I have complete faith they will do the same with Shepard. I definitely recommend this book for anyone who likes dark romance, or who wants to but isn't sure how dark they can take it. It balances both amazingly well and would satisfy either craving.
I really appreciate the care the author takes with such sensitive and heavy subjects. These aren't easy subjects to handle, especially in dark romances where it's easy to glorify them. It is always very clear this author cares about the matters they are writing about. Also dark romances that put a premium on consent the way this series does are, in my opinion, a very rare find and really really nice to read. I can enjoy the romance without inevitably cringing and overlooking some things when the spice comes along (I mean NO shame to anyone who does enjoy those types of books). Nothing feels slimy.
Puppy play is listed as a kink but honestly it is very very light, if it isn't your thing I wouldn't let it keep you from reading the book. It's mainly just Boone's nickname of Pup for Xion. Xion and Boone are great together, I was dubious about the pair and even about someone fitting with Xion at all since he's such a deep and complex character, but I was so pleasantly surprised. His story was everything I was hoping for and I'm happy he found Boone.
I will say Algerone as a character didn't really make sense to me, he seemed to contradict himself at times, but I'll be eager to see more of him in the other triplet books. I'm so freaking excited for Shepard's book, it seems like an incredibly difficult task to capture Shepard in a story, but I thought the same of Xion and L. Eveland executed Vicious Cycle beautifully, so I have complete faith they will do the same with Shepard. I definitely recommend this book for anyone who likes dark romance, or who wants to but isn't sure how dark they can take it. It balances both amazingly well and would satisfy either craving.
May 26, 2024
This book really surprised me in so many different ways. I knew this book was going to reference really tough topics and depict potentially toxic relationships but what I did not expect was to be drawn in from the very first chapter! The story really flowed and I found myself forcing myself to put it down so I could savor the story a bit more!!!
This book had so many good moments and although it may seem like the MMCs are suddenly is a relationship, it’s only because the story flies by that you don’t realize that things did progress on a timeline that worked for THEM! It made me feel like I was a part of their relationship because it all happened in such a beautifully twisted way. I felt like Boone was always there to help Xion through the nightmares he had without making him feel like a child or making him feel uncomfortable for having the nightmares.
Boone was also a much more complex character than I expected! We touch slightly on his relationship with his twin and how that plagues him as well. This causes both MMCs to be dealing with issues that neither of them have worked through that do cause a few issues but overall, I believe it makes their relationship stronger. Their relationship doesn’t seem like codependence but like two people who have found comfort in someone who accepts them for who they are, flaws and all.
This is BOOK 3 in the Wayward Sons series but I didn’t feel like I was missing content just by reading this book. I truly feel like the relationship between Boone and Xion was beautifully done in a way that wasn’t disrespectful and really showed that people with mental health issues can still be loved and that they are worthy of that love.
Tropes Include:
MM Love Interests
Dual POV
Found Family
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Mutual touch him and 💀
Mental Health Representation
Dark Story x Sweetest Relationship
Light Puppy Play
This book had so many good moments and although it may seem like the MMCs are suddenly is a relationship, it’s only because the story flies by that you don’t realize that things did progress on a timeline that worked for THEM! It made me feel like I was a part of their relationship because it all happened in such a beautifully twisted way. I felt like Boone was always there to help Xion through the nightmares he had without making him feel like a child or making him feel uncomfortable for having the nightmares.
Boone was also a much more complex character than I expected! We touch slightly on his relationship with his twin and how that plagues him as well. This causes both MMCs to be dealing with issues that neither of them have worked through that do cause a few issues but overall, I believe it makes their relationship stronger. Their relationship doesn’t seem like codependence but like two people who have found comfort in someone who accepts them for who they are, flaws and all.
This is BOOK 3 in the Wayward Sons series but I didn’t feel like I was missing content just by reading this book. I truly feel like the relationship between Boone and Xion was beautifully done in a way that wasn’t disrespectful and really showed that people with mental health issues can still be loved and that they are worthy of that love.
Tropes Include:
MM Love Interests
Dual POV
Found Family
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Mutual touch him and 💀
Mental Health Representation
Dark Story x Sweetest Relationship
Light Puppy Play
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2024
“This wasn’t my home. My home was a trailer in the middle of a junkyard with a sagging sofa. My home smelled like musty carpet, wet dog, and cigarette smoke. My home was a place where none of the second-hand décor matched, where the TV was always just a little too loud, and the food came out of a microwave in a plastic tray. Yeah, maybe that made it a shithole, but it was my shithole. It was where I lived with Boone and his dogs, where I was happy.”
I really felt for Xion. No wonder he felt completely abandoned when people just take what they want and discard him when they’re done. I’m so happy he was passed to Boone. Their relationship was lovely and I’m glad Boone took Xion the way he was.
I was really disappointed in the Laskins. I know logically they had their reasons and I’m sure we’ll find out Shepherds, but the lack of empathy for Xion was awful. ‘Oh well it’s done now just forget it and be nice to us now please’
The only one who had any right to be slightly angry at Xion was Xander yet he’s the only one who gives him a half decent explanation and apology for leaving him.
Don’t even get me started on the dad and Max. Wow, talk about dickheads.
Anyway it’s a good book. The author is good at talking about mental health issues. It was fast paced like the rest but the storyline was good. I felt like we lost out on a lot of the details though. This story needed to be from lots of different perspectives not just two.
If there’s not going to be a story about them separately I would have liked to have got Xander and Xavier’s endings too.
Also we’re going to leave the whole Max thing like that? I know Xion now has it as leverage but that’s it? I hope there’s a book about them two or what’s the point in giving us that information?
Looking forward to Shep’s book. I want to know who he’s hiding.
I really felt for Xion. No wonder he felt completely abandoned when people just take what they want and discard him when they’re done. I’m so happy he was passed to Boone. Their relationship was lovely and I’m glad Boone took Xion the way he was.
I was really disappointed in the Laskins. I know logically they had their reasons and I’m sure we’ll find out Shepherds, but the lack of empathy for Xion was awful. ‘Oh well it’s done now just forget it and be nice to us now please’
The only one who had any right to be slightly angry at Xion was Xander yet he’s the only one who gives him a half decent explanation and apology for leaving him.
Don’t even get me started on the dad and Max. Wow, talk about dickheads.
Anyway it’s a good book. The author is good at talking about mental health issues. It was fast paced like the rest but the storyline was good. I felt like we lost out on a lot of the details though. This story needed to be from lots of different perspectives not just two.
If there’s not going to be a story about them separately I would have liked to have got Xander and Xavier’s endings too.
Also we’re going to leave the whole Max thing like that? I know Xion now has it as leverage but that’s it? I hope there’s a book about them two or what’s the point in giving us that information?
Looking forward to Shep’s book. I want to know who he’s hiding.
May 29, 2024
Vicious Cycle
Wayward Sons
L Eveland
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
I’ve been waiting for Xion’s story since Body Count. Xion is such a great character and Vicious Cycle is a blend of his redemption story, villain origin story and his love story. Eveland did a masterful job blending these together. I loved the little humorous moments sprinkled throughout that help show more of his personality outside of a diagnosis, especially when he almost got caught with the magazine!
Xion and Boone’s mutual “touch him and see” vibes were funny as well. They really began to balance each other as they progressed in their relationship. They were both extremely protective/possessive, but wanted to be protected/possessed at the same time. Their personalities are so layered and are just one reason I love Eveland’s characters. They become so lifelike that I forget that these aren’t real people.
I really enjoyed the time spent with the triplets. They remind me of Avi and Asa from Onley James, Necessary Evils and they are my absolute favorite siblings! Their dynamic is tense to begin with, but as secrets unravel the relationships shift. I’m really looking forward to more time with them.
Shepherd!!! I am so beyond ready for his book. It’s going to be so interesting reading a character with four or five personalities, depending which triplet you ask. I can only imagine how much work it will take to write that one.
The plot all three of these books is so intriguing, taking us on a rollercoaster ride of secrets, lies, plotting, family drama, a little romance and some spice thrown in for good measure.
Wayward Sons
L Eveland
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
I’ve been waiting for Xion’s story since Body Count. Xion is such a great character and Vicious Cycle is a blend of his redemption story, villain origin story and his love story. Eveland did a masterful job blending these together. I loved the little humorous moments sprinkled throughout that help show more of his personality outside of a diagnosis, especially when he almost got caught with the magazine!
Xion and Boone’s mutual “touch him and see” vibes were funny as well. They really began to balance each other as they progressed in their relationship. They were both extremely protective/possessive, but wanted to be protected/possessed at the same time. Their personalities are so layered and are just one reason I love Eveland’s characters. They become so lifelike that I forget that these aren’t real people.
I really enjoyed the time spent with the triplets. They remind me of Avi and Asa from Onley James, Necessary Evils and they are my absolute favorite siblings! Their dynamic is tense to begin with, but as secrets unravel the relationships shift. I’m really looking forward to more time with them.
Shepherd!!! I am so beyond ready for his book. It’s going to be so interesting reading a character with four or five personalities, depending which triplet you ask. I can only imagine how much work it will take to write that one.
The plot all three of these books is so intriguing, taking us on a rollercoaster ride of secrets, lies, plotting, family drama, a little romance and some spice thrown in for good measure.
September 1, 2025
3.25⭐️
The pacing of the relationship in this one is much better than the rest of the series we get to see a proper progression of their relationship. I’m not a big fan of age gap romances particularly with someone as traumatised as Xion so I wasn’t overly rooting for the mc’s the 16 year age gap just felt too gross for me to fully want them together. Though I do think the way the author handled it was well done and really focused on xion being the being the one to dictate the pace of their relationship
I didn’t like how any of the family treated xion it was always as if he was an afterthought and they didn’t treat him like they treated the rest of the brothers and I don’t think that was addressed enough.
The plot outside of the relationship kind of fell flat to me it was quite boring and I feel like lucky being the triplets dad was kind of pointless and was just added to add some extra drama
I didn’t like how this book seemed to say that biological family was more important than adopted family as if just because the triplets are related their bond was more important than their relationship with any of their other brothers or parents
Overall as opposed to the previous books I preferred the relationship in this one to the overarching plot, the relationship was sweet and while the age gap creeped me out if u over looked that their relationship was shown pretty well, however the overall plot was boring and felt quite underdeveloped.
I think people will like this book if they go into for the romance over the plot and are okay with large age gaps in relationships.
Check content warnings for this book as there are many dark elements to it
The pacing of the relationship in this one is much better than the rest of the series we get to see a proper progression of their relationship. I’m not a big fan of age gap romances particularly with someone as traumatised as Xion so I wasn’t overly rooting for the mc’s the 16 year age gap just felt too gross for me to fully want them together. Though I do think the way the author handled it was well done and really focused on xion being the being the one to dictate the pace of their relationship
I didn’t like how any of the family treated xion it was always as if he was an afterthought and they didn’t treat him like they treated the rest of the brothers and I don’t think that was addressed enough.
The plot outside of the relationship kind of fell flat to me it was quite boring and I feel like lucky being the triplets dad was kind of pointless and was just added to add some extra drama
I didn’t like how this book seemed to say that biological family was more important than adopted family as if just because the triplets are related their bond was more important than their relationship with any of their other brothers or parents
Overall as opposed to the previous books I preferred the relationship in this one to the overarching plot, the relationship was sweet and while the age gap creeped me out if u over looked that their relationship was shown pretty well, however the overall plot was boring and felt quite underdeveloped.
I think people will like this book if they go into for the romance over the plot and are okay with large age gaps in relationships.
Check content warnings for this book as there are many dark elements to it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2024
“I’m done being a slave to angry ghosts. From today forward, I get to choose who and what I become. Today, I’m free.”
I knew I would love Boone but then you add in Xion and phew boy are you in for a wild ride.
I never expected this book to play out the way it did and while it was intense it was also kind of sweet in its own way.
Xion hurt my heart. The pain that he has gone through and continues to go through is the hardest part of this book. Finding out what happened to him was the hardest to read. This man really just wants to be wanted and not thrown away like his family did to him all those years ago and even now.
Mental health is a monster that never goes away.
Boone was the grounding that Xion needed but also for himself too. He was just surviving before he took Xion in after dealing with his own loss and it pulled him in a direction he never seen coming. The purpose that seemed to come from him where Xion was concerned was unexpected. This hardened military man is soft for his mentally unstable room mate but is he really unstable?
The twist with this book threw me for a damn loop but it made it all the better too! I was waiting to see which way it would go and the way it went was perfect, it opened and closed more things for me. Will we get more from that, I hope so 🤞🏼
This one was a mixture of a thrill and emotions with a sprinkling of spice in there. It balanced itself so well.
💛 Mental Health Rep
🖤 Puppy Play
💛 Hurt/Comfort
🖤 Found Family
💛Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Praise
💛 Forced O’s
L. Eveland has done it again but if it’s the Laskin Family I know it’ll be good. Even if technically Xion is no longer a Laskin.
This series is filled with triggers so please please read them before you go into this series, this one is intense and has very dark subjects inside. Protect yourself before reading something that could harm you.
I knew I would love Boone but then you add in Xion and phew boy are you in for a wild ride.
I never expected this book to play out the way it did and while it was intense it was also kind of sweet in its own way.
Xion hurt my heart. The pain that he has gone through and continues to go through is the hardest part of this book. Finding out what happened to him was the hardest to read. This man really just wants to be wanted and not thrown away like his family did to him all those years ago and even now.
Mental health is a monster that never goes away.
Boone was the grounding that Xion needed but also for himself too. He was just surviving before he took Xion in after dealing with his own loss and it pulled him in a direction he never seen coming. The purpose that seemed to come from him where Xion was concerned was unexpected. This hardened military man is soft for his mentally unstable room mate but is he really unstable?
The twist with this book threw me for a damn loop but it made it all the better too! I was waiting to see which way it would go and the way it went was perfect, it opened and closed more things for me. Will we get more from that, I hope so 🤞🏼
This one was a mixture of a thrill and emotions with a sprinkling of spice in there. It balanced itself so well.
💛 Mental Health Rep
🖤 Puppy Play
💛 Hurt/Comfort
🖤 Found Family
💛Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Praise
💛 Forced O’s
L. Eveland has done it again but if it’s the Laskin Family I know it’ll be good. Even if technically Xion is no longer a Laskin.
This series is filled with triggers so please please read them before you go into this series, this one is intense and has very dark subjects inside. Protect yourself before reading something that could harm you.
December 16, 2024
4.25 Stars - This is a bit of a crazy series, but it sucked me in and I’m invested now. This is one of the stories I was looking forward to seeing play out. Xion is the triplet brother of Xander and Xavier. He’s been away in a psychiatric facility, and when the last book ended, Xion had been sprung by a few of his other family members.
Xion has been given to Boone for safekeeping. Boone is the leader of a group of mercenaries who is taking care of Xion until he is stable enough to be turned in for a bounty.
Needless to say, Boone and Xion grow closer, and Boone is the one who is able to quiet Xion’s voices and is there to hold him through his episodes.
There is a lot going on here with Xion and his background and experiences while he was in the facility. He has been hurt badly, and there is a little vengeance involved, as well as a broader story about taking down the others involved with the organization.
Then, we have the family drama/issues which we learn a little more about. I loved seeing the other characters and the miscommunication being worked out among the brothers. It was so good to see Xion find some peace and rekindle relationships with his family.
I thought the next book would be about Xander or Xavier, but it looks like Boone’s second in command, Church, is up next. I’ve already added it to my list.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
April 21, 2025
Oh sweet Xion you vicous little scitzo how does a person not love you and the voices in your head.
And Boone the stoic merc who only cares about his men and the money from the next mission, how do you fall for the sexy troubled boy you are supposed to help, you just do thats how.
Xion and his past is a lot to unpack in one book, the voices, his psychotic break, his time in an institution, the abuse he suffered there (that literally no one knew about) to his deep seated abandonment that he shares with his brothers. This sweet boy just wants to be loved and seen for who his is, not what his mental illness makes people see. He is convinced that no one could love him cause everyone has thrown him away so why should Boone be any different.
The sexual chemistry between the two is off the charts yet the way that Boone just wants to care for Xion is so heart warming, to prove to him that he isn't going anywhere and he would do anything for Xion. Together these two try to overcome Xions demons as well as Boones own issues with not feeling worthy, especially since loosing his twin.
Xion pushes away everyone in his family and he tries his best to push Boone away too but hes more stubborn than a mule and proves to Xion that he's worth it. Not only putting himself on the line for Xion but his whole team.
This story is full of trauma and turmoil but ends in an unconventional HEA
This wasn't my favorite book in the series but it was worth the read and plays into the rest of the series so well and you learn alot about the sub plot in this one so don't skip out.
And Boone the stoic merc who only cares about his men and the money from the next mission, how do you fall for the sexy troubled boy you are supposed to help, you just do thats how.
Xion and his past is a lot to unpack in one book, the voices, his psychotic break, his time in an institution, the abuse he suffered there (that literally no one knew about) to his deep seated abandonment that he shares with his brothers. This sweet boy just wants to be loved and seen for who his is, not what his mental illness makes people see. He is convinced that no one could love him cause everyone has thrown him away so why should Boone be any different.
The sexual chemistry between the two is off the charts yet the way that Boone just wants to care for Xion is so heart warming, to prove to him that he isn't going anywhere and he would do anything for Xion. Together these two try to overcome Xions demons as well as Boones own issues with not feeling worthy, especially since loosing his twin.
Xion pushes away everyone in his family and he tries his best to push Boone away too but hes more stubborn than a mule and proves to Xion that he's worth it. Not only putting himself on the line for Xion but his whole team.
This story is full of trauma and turmoil but ends in an unconventional HEA
This wasn't my favorite book in the series but it was worth the read and plays into the rest of the series so well and you learn alot about the sub plot in this one so don't skip out.
May 29, 2024
How do you make a violent paranoid schizophrenic with seriously murderous tendencies a romantic hero?! Somehow that's exactly what Eveland has done with this third instalment in the Wayward Sons series, tracking the lives and romantic relationships of the exceedingly morally grey Laskin clan. I knew from book 1 that I wanted to read Xion's story and I wasn't disappointed. His relationship with his captor-turned-lover Boone is fabulous, and the ongoing madness that is the world surrounding this clan of adopted brothers continues to unfold in chaotic fashion. I love that the series is a complex unfolding tapestry of dark dealings and even darker feelings but each book stands by itself, so although it's clear from the plotline of Vicious Cycle there's still so much we don't know about (and which I very much look forward to uncovering) it doesn't feel like a cliffhanger. I do recommend reading books 1 and 2 first though, as seriously...there's so much there to know! Oddly enough, given Xion's past and Boone's job, this is probably the least dark of the series so far, although that's not to say it's not - expect dirt and torture and choking and more! But Xion has a surprisingly soft edge for someone who once tried his very best to kill his triplet (and more...but we won't talk about the poor puppy). Bring on Shepherd's story...
May 29, 2024
Based on Xion's personal history, I'd assumed this book would be the darkest of this series so far. However, Eveland balances the depths of Xion and Boone's wounds to craft a poignant, unexpected romance that blooms amidst a complicated and compelling external plot that elevates everything about this world we learned in the previous two books. The Laskin family has power and connections, certainly, but they may have met their match. Boone's mercenary group forms the third point of a fascinating power struggle that involves Xion and his brothers (both biological and adopted). Though this book ends in a satisfying (and much deserved) "happily ever after" for Xion and Boone, I look forward to the continued resolution of Xion's relationship with his brothers and extended family and how that plays out amidst the future romantic dynamics teased here. As always, Eveland doesn't shy away from the darker (and realistic) aspects of the world they explore in their writing, and while some moments are certainly painful, they are never gratuitous and always handled with care. Eveland has quickly become a one-click author for me, no matter the genre, and I anxiously await more in this (and other) series.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
June 10, 2024
Boone is a strong character because of the life he lives. Struggling with mental health and being the boss of a junkyard in so much more. Boone Has a difficult thing going on now with Xion now that he’s in his life. He has to decide what’s more important money or love. He will always protect everyone. He cares about before himself. Throughout the book you see Boone becomes more alive now that he has everything he wants. Xion character is also so strong. Living with a mental disease like schizophrenia. He grows so much throughout this whole book. He becomes more confidence for what he wants. Also works every day to be a better person he needs to be. So he can fine in his own way, to have control of his own life. He believes in so many things because of this disease and now he’s trying to find out what is real and fake. That together are amazing team and couple. The fact that both of them are therefore, one another is amazing. I like the way that they communicate as well because they go over what is going on and how they can fix it. They work so hard to get where they are at the end of this book. There are so many things that I liked about these too. I can’t wait to see what else L Eveland writes in this series.
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