The Predator

Oakmount Elite #4

by J.L. Beck

What is a predator without his prey?

Elyse Silver was never mine to keep.

The day I saved her life, I ensured we would forever be enemies.

Hating her was easy.

Bullying her, as simple as breathing.

Stopping myself from falling for her… I had no idea how impossible that would become.

The harder I fought, the deeper I fell.

Love and happiness have never been part of my plan, but letting Elyse go isn’t an option, either.

Unfortunately, the truth always finds a way of revealing itself, and by the time she realizes who the real predator is, it’ll be too late for her to escape the trap I’ve put her in.

** This is NOT a standalone and must be read AFTER The Prey. This is a dark romance novel that contains numerous triggers. **

Genres: Dark Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Dark, Romance, College, Audiobook, Suspense

416 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 10, 2024

About the author

J.L. Beck is the USA Today Best Selling author of unapologetic romance. She lives in WI with her husband, two kids, and four dogs. She enjoys writing and recently starting a literary agency to help represent authors in the industry.

To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks

J.L. Beck xoxoxo

Reviews

[Kayla | Kayla Reads Smut · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I even get into the review of this one it NEEDS to be stated that this is the second book in a duet. You MUST read The Prey before The Predator. The Predator picks up where The Prey cliffhanger leaves off. Ok now that that is taken care off, let's get into the review.

I first want to say that I love Sebastian. He is my favorite in this bunch of tortured souls. And I also really love Elyse. I think they balance each other out seamlessly. Sebastian is so much more than his cold exterior. And my heart literally broke for him while reading this book. You learn so much more about his traumatic past and why he is the way he is. But then to see him melt and become a different person with Elyse, I myself melted. Now Elyse, she really stepped into her own. She was always this meek little girl who was afraid to be her true self. But Sebastian allowed her to grow and show her she is strong and completely capable of being this strong woman.

Now I will say, I wish there was a little more storyline with the cliffhangers that we received in The Prey. I felt like with Elyse, what happened to her was solved far too quickly. And with Sebastian's "cliffhanger" there was a good portion of the book that it was not talked about. But as always, this is just me being a selfish reader who wants more. I always want more :) At the end of the day, I loved the completion of Sebastian and Elyse's story. I also loved seeing the whole gang throughout the book. Now this book has me very intrigued for Lee's book. Will his be a MM, MMF or MF? That is the real question. Also, the epilogue with Aries? JL Beck! I am going need you to write faster because I need their books! Please and thank you!

You should read this book if you like:
- Dark Romance
- Forced Marriage
- OTT O/P Hero
- Breeding Kink
- Forced Proximity
- Found Family

* Thank you so much JL Beck, Candi Kane PR and Literally Yours PR for allowing me to read The Predator as an ARC in exchange

[Erika Braga · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well that was definitely not it.

I didn’t like the first book of this duet and I hated this one. I couldn’t connect with Sebastian who’s I was so intrigued in the first duet that I actually really liked. But in his own books Sebastian didn’t give me anything. And I absolutely hated Elyse here more than I did the previous book. She is SO judgmental, bland, plain, annoying and for a girl that suffer the worst situations she was extremely dumb.
The only thing I like in this book was getting more of the friends group. I still love Drew and Bel and I think I will love Lee’s story. Aries is a mystery to me and I like it. I hope this series gets better, as it right now I really liked the first duet, the second duet was a flop and let’s see how the third duet will be….

[Lammie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part 2 of this duet had both Sebastian and Elyce as emotional messes for a big part of it 🤪. I was particularly frustrated with Elyce at times with her OTT behaviour 🤯. Sebastian was determined to keep her safe, and while I understand she had never had any freedom, she was in extreme danger and didn’t seem to have enough self preservation sense to appreciate what he was doing.

At times I wanted to reach into the book and knock their heads together and yell ENOUGH OF YOUR SECRETS.

There were three truly evil villains, and all of them received their just rewards 😈💀.

In the end all secrets came out, and the well deserved hea was had 😊.

[Vee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

Tropes : dark romance, forced marriage, h paying off debt, J/P H, touch her and 💀, college romance, mafia prince
Ending :cliffy
Triggers : mention of r*pe (OW to H), violence, abuse, mention of child abuse, mention of 💀, murder, gore, mention of child m@lester, attempted SA (h)
Spice : 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ /5
Angst : 🔥 🔥 🔥 /5
OM/OW drama : OW (H’s stepmom)
Intimacy details : oral, rough sex, no condom, breeding kink, cum jammer
Standalone / Series : part of an interconnected series/ duet (2/2)

Hero : Sebastian Arturo
Heroine : Elyse ‘Ely’ Arturo

This is the continuation of the previous book. It picked up where the last book left off. Obviously Sebastian managed to find Ely but after she killed the bad guy.

Then she was hysterical after remembering her forgotten past regarding the truth of Sebastian’s grandpa’s death and her being shot. She was terrified he would kill her in the future. Not a great time to judge him considering she killed her abuser too moments ago.

Because she was in a danger and Sebastian felt like getting married to her would protect her from her dad, what a genius idea Seb ! (Not).

Long story short, they got married, he injected her with fertility drug without her knowing. She hated him for a bit but then both of them admitted they loved each other, then the dad was being a piece of shit demanding Ely to come back to him so he could sell her to other people, some drama happened, then she grew a backbone after almost being stupid by playing into her dad’s hand, she killed him, the evil bit*h of a stepmom revealed she lost the baby and then Seb killed her too.

By the end of the book Ely got pregnant. The epilogue was her 6months into her pregnancy and some snippet of the next book, I believe it was Lee’s.

[Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sebastian: “I’m not a good man…”
Also Sebastian: burns the world down for you 🔥 #MorallyGrayMen



The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚💜💙❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: 😋🙂🤨🤣🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration

🛡️ Audiobook Review: The Predator

Series: Oakmount Elite
Genre: Dark Bully Romance
Narrators: Renee Thorne & Ryan Stone

🦸🏻‍♂️ Hero Spotlight: Sebastian

Born into a legacy of violence and manipulation, Sebastian is the reluctant heir to a mafia empire he despises. Raised by an uncle who offered fleeting stability, Sebastian’s world collapsed when that uncle died—leaving him in the clutches of Tanya, his predatory aunt-turned-stepmother. Now trapped in a mansion he co-owns with her and burdened by a criminal empire he never wanted, Sebastian is a man at war with his past, his present, and himself. His hatred for Tanya simmers beneath every interaction, and her latest scheme pushes him closer to the edge.

🦸🏼‍♀️ Heroine Spotlight: Elyse

Elyse’s journey is one of trauma, resilience, and betrayal. Just as she begins to trust Sebastian and feel safe for the first time, her world implodes. Haunted by fragmented memories of abuse at the hands of Yanov—a corrupt cop who once claimed ownership over her—Elyse is thrust back into danger when her father, the police chief of Oakmount, resurfaces with violent intent. The same man who shot her and sold her to the Arturos now threatens everything she’s built with Sebastian.

📃 Plot Pulse

Picking up immediately after the previous book’s cliffhanger, this installment dives deeper into the chaos. Elyse’s trust in Sebastian is shattered, and the threats multiply—from Yanov’s looming menace to her father’s chilling return. The plot twists are sharper, the stakes higher, and the emotional fallout more intense. Sebastian’s inner circle steps up, adding depth and camaraderie to the narrative, while Elyse faces a gauntlet of fear, doubt, and survival.

💘 What Hit Home

• Sebastian’s emotional evolution is striking. No longer hiding behind cruelty, he embraces his need to protect Elyse, even when she doubts him. His vulnerability and fierce loyalty add layers to his character.
• The expanded role of Sebastian’s friends brings warmth and texture to the story, offering moments of levity and support amid the darkness.

🧐 What Fell Flat

• Elyse’s father is a walking confession—boasting about selling his daughter, issuing death threats via text—yet no one leverages this to take him down. The missed opportunity for justice is frustrating.
• Elyse’s fear often overrides logic. Her reluctance to let Sebastian handle things leads to reckless decisions that veer into TSTL territory, undermining her growth.

🎧 Narration Notes

Renee Thorne and Ryan Stone deliver a compelling dual POV experience. Thorne’s voice captures Elyse’s fragility and fire, while Stone’s gravelly tone embodies Sebastian’s brooding intensity. Though his voice skews older than expected, the emotional weight he brings to Sebastian’s torment is undeniable.

📝 Final Takeaway

This sequel deepens the emotional stakes and expands the danger, delivering a gritty, twist-laden ride through trauma, trust, and tangled loyalties. Sebastian’s transformation and Elyse’s struggle for agency anchor the story, even when logic falters. A must-listen for fans of dark romance with morally complex leads and relentless tension.

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[bel · Rating 3 out of 5]

idk, it's okay

[Vana · Rating 2 out of 5]

let down

I like J.l becks writing but this conclusion to this book was a let down. I like that her characters are morally grey but Ely was disappointing FMC she has no back bones just seems to be totally cool with the fact seb was pig with woman and he is not remorseful at all like ew she’s over here cleaning his sheets. I wanted more liked how in wallflower you feel like drew had to work to get bel. Also super disappointed how Bel just acted like Ely should just forgive everything when she knew how poorly Seb talked and treated her. Instead we get kind of lame conclusion where Ely just continues to let everyone treat her like a possession. I tried to read it hoping it would get better instead it became more disappointing so I DNF at over 80%

[Ashley · Rating 1 out of 5]

I sadly am dnfing this book. I loved Seb in the other 3 books but this story fell flat. Ely was too whiny. I can't stand the back and forth of the emotions. Gave me whiplash.
I am so disappointed in this one. I wanted to love it like the others.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️/2.5🌶️

The perfect ending for Seb and Elyse! ❤️

JL Beck has done it again, delivering a story that hits all the right notes. What I loved most in this book was Seb's unwavering commitment to Elyse. It was so refreshing to see a romance without unnecessary push-and-pull drama—just clear intentions and heartfelt connection.

As always, JL Beck's writing shines through with intriguing plot twists and sizzling scenes that keep you hooked. This book maintains her high standard, balancing romance and spice seamlessly.

Can't wait for the next one! 🔥📚

[Alwaysdarkromance · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️

This book picks up where Prey ended. It is an emotional rollercoaster. I loved the characters and the story. It took me a little bit to figure out how I wanted to write my review. But I think I decided I’ll leave it up to you to read! Highly recommend!

[Amber (Amber Reads Romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️

The Predator is the second part of the duet for Sebastian and Elyse, and it picks up right after the cliffhanger in The Prey. I loved The Prey because Sebastian was everything! I was excited to read the conclusion of their romance.

I can't explain too much because I do not want to spoil anything from The Prey. Elyse is in a dangerous situation in the opening of this book when her past comes back to haunt her. Sebastian is also dealing with his disgusting step-mom/aunt and the trauma she caused in his life. He has to rush to try and save Elyse from not only Yanov but also her evil father. Things get complicated when she starts to remember things from her past, which may not show Seb in the best light. He is willing to do anything to make her his and keep her safe, maybe even a forced marriage.

I was kind of frustrated with Elyse's reaction to the reveals of Seb's past and all of a sudden thought he was a monster even though he did some crazy stuff in the previous book. I loved Sebastian so much that I was irritated with her behavior. I loved how devoted he was to her, so he is the best part of the book.

I do really love Lee's character, and I can't wait to read his book. I am hoping for an MMF or MM romance since he is bisexual. I am also very curious about what is going on with Aries and Bell.

Thank you to Literally Yours PR and Booksprout for providing the ARC.

TW: SA, abuse from a parent, kidnapping, drugging, birth control tampering, breeding.

[HeatherAnne · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s taken a week to process my feelings for this story.
I wanted to let the emotional state of my mind and heart to stop racing long enough to find the words. It was far too close for comfort, and in the end, I sobbed like a baby when all those emotions flooded from my body. Sebastian is the epitome of what the aftermath of trauma looks and feels like.
A cold, heartless, selfish boy; whose life never was his own. Years of abuse and manipulation turned him into a ruthless man who only cares about himself; we think.
Dear Sebastian ~ It’s not your fault. Not everyone in life is out to get you, or hurt you- especially Elyse…So stop being a twatwaffle, and realize what’s in front of you. You already know there’s something about her that drives you mad with pleasure, even though you can’t admit it, she’s so fracking good for you—if you screw this up so help me.


Okay now that that’s over.
J.L. Is no stranger to writing emotionally charged and driven men. Ruthless creatures who are obsessive and possessive; Sebastian, uuuugh, I just want to snatch him up for myself. Holy Sh.t, this man is so unhinged when fu¢king, the passion and heat singed my fingers every time I turned the page. He’s loud, unforgiving, intense, and I’m not even sure I would classify him as a red flag; he’s more of a garnet, bleeding red every time he speaks. This man’s sexual language is making sure his words and actions paralyze you with need, want, lust, and fear; you should know I am there, here, or wherever he tells me to bend over… I’m in for alllll of it.
Sebastian is scarred and broken from his family (which is laughable they consider themselves family in the first place). How is someone supposed to exist, to live, to love, after the death of their soul?

I’ve read every book in this series and still cannot get enough of the morally blackened men. Men with hearts pure as the women they fall in love with.

Now go read the ficking book already…But start with The Wallflower if you haven’t started the series yet. Oh, and good luck with Drew.

Bring on Lee’s story!!!!

[angelictaleslibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 4 in the Oakmount Elite series..

🖤 Dark Academia
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Opposites Attract
🖤 Touch her & 💀
🖤 Revenge
🖤 Forced Marriage

The Predator is the second part of the duet for Sebastian and Elyse, and it picks up right after the cliffhanger in The Prey.
Both mc’s have awful heart breaking trauma.

This book was an emotional rollercoaster, I cried like a baby..😭
I’m still not over how this book made me feel..

This book was intense, the chemistry, the angst left me turning the pages so quickly & not wanting to put the book down until I finished it…

definitely read trigger warnings
I loved this book so much the growth between both mc’s was incredibly written

[VicReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️

↓↓
Just like with previous books in this series, I ate it up. Completely devoured it.

This begins right where The Prey left off and its an intense ride from there. I love Seb and Elyse so much. They both have some pretty tragic past and trauma. What these two have endured is heartbreaking, it really is.

What a wild ride. I wanted to scream, cry, hug them. I'm pretty sure I went through emotions possible while reading. Did not want it to end.

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🩵Dark Academia
🩵Enemies to Lovers
🩵Opposites Attract
🩵Touch her and ☠️

[Clara Atkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five dark, twisted and emotional ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

STOP 🛑 you MUST read Prey first.
The Predator is book 4 in the Oakmount Elite series and the conclusion of Sebastian and Elyse storyline and what a ride it turned out to be.
Buckle up because their story picks up where that nail biting cliffhanger left off. It once again grabs you from the beginning and holds on tight and leaves you afraid of what could possibly come next. I'm not going to elaborate more but I'll sum up by saying it will have you feeling every haunted, tormented, traumatized and painful emotion as well as the anger and love. Their story won't be easy to forget.

I received a free ARC through Booksprout an I'm voluntarily leaving my review.

[momaddictedtobooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was sooo good! I couldn’t put it down! I read it in one sitting. I was on the edge of my seat at times. I love Sebastian and Elyse! I’m absolutely loving this series and I can’t wait for Lee’s book!

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, this is book 2 in Sebastian and Elyse's duet. Must read The Prey before this one.

“𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘯𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘶𝘴."

Sebastian is cold, callous and silent... until he isn't. When you have his attention, good or bad you'll be able to tell the difference and she had it ALL. He tried to shield her away from the real him. The dark and depraved side that his traumatic childhood helped blossom. If he was ruthless, he'd be untouchable. She refused to let him carry it all himself though.

Sweet, sweet Elyse. They had a connection unlike any other. Their heartbreak and struggles called to one another. Together they were made whole and her light kept them from falling too far into the darkness. She was perfect for him. Trust me, for how big of a personality Seb was she refused to just give in and the push and pull was real. She voices her displeasure often, but he refused to put her life in jeopardy.

He found his own controlling way to keep her safe. To keep the ones who should have protected her at all costs away from her. She had Seb, Bel and his friends. That was enough.

"𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘵, 𝘚𝘦𝘣𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘯. 𝘚𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬, 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵."

Together these two were intense and explosive. Their story isn't for the faint of heart. You're gonna hurt, it's dark and it's painful... but the beauty at the end will be worth it.

Can't wait for Lee's story!!

[Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️

The Predator, part two in Sebastian and Elyse’s story and book 4 from Oakmount Elite series has us picking right up from where author J.L. Beck left us hanging in part one The Prey.
Continuing right on without any time having past.

Just like in The Prey, book two The Predator continued to take us on a ride in following the continuous journey of Sebastian and Elyse.
With more added drama and secrets, and some twists adding to the already climbing tension.
All the whilst battling the emotional whirlwind of feelings and emotions unleashed, the story proceeded to keep you holding on with carrying you through.

Surprisingly the narrative had you moving through fairly quickly, at least in the first third considering all that went down and how it played out, particularly in the time development of it all.
This actually ended up catching me off guard, having not expected it in the very least.
Ultimately having me intrigued to see how the rest of Sebastian and Elyse’s story would fare.
As for the rest of the exploration into the ongoing development of the story, it went at a steady pace.

Despite having enjoyed reading the first part in book one to Sebastian and Elyse’s story, The Predator in comparison did fall a little short for me.
It just felt like after the beginning the story started to go downhill and lost some of the thrills that it had me expecting like in The Prey.
There was also the case of wishing there had been more exploration into Sebastian and Elyse's relationship to show the growth. As opposed to hearing it through their inner monologue. Something that definitely took more precedence with the heavy focus on Sebastian and Elyse inner monologues, particularly in Elyse’s case.
In my opinion, it could've done less without and more on actually communicating with each other.

With that said, despite my issues, author J.L. Beck still delivered a good read with delivering the HEA of Sebastian and Elyse in this emotionally charged ride that was the conclusion to part two The Predator. And their duet within Oakmount Elite series overall.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Casey Hayes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided an ARC of this title for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Your mental health is important. Please do be advised of content warnings, and keep yourself aware of and safe from any triggers you may have.

The Predator is the fourth book of J.L. Beck’s Oakmount Elite series, and book two of Sebastian and Elyse’s story.

Sebastian Arturo and his Little Prey.

“I want you to understand that no matter what, there will always be an us. There is no you, or me. There is only us."

When Elyse disappears from their bed in the middle of the night, there isn’t much Sebastian won’t do to find her, and no lengths he won’t go to to protect his Little Prey— even if he has to do so against her will.

“Today, the prey becomes the predator.”

Elyse is less than thrilled by the rock on her finger, nor the story it comes with when she wakes up to Sebastian calling her wife. But they’ve got bigger problems, and along the path of coming to terms with her new reality and all that comes with it, Elyse also reclaims her power and sets herself free.

(Raise your hand if you went into this book thinking that the title was referring to Seb, only to have your jaw unhinged by Ely’s power reclamation?)

"Do your worst, Sebastian. Show me all your dark, depraved sides, and I'll lead you back to the light."

These two are truly the source of light for one another in what has proven to be a very dark world surrounding them.

I’m really enjoying this series, and can’t wait to read Lee’s book next!

Read if you love:
Dark romance
College romance
Morally black MMC
Unhinged MMC
Kidnapping
Touch her and die
Embracing the darkness
Forced marriage
“My wife” | “mine”
Saving each other | saving themselves
Conquering her fears


Thank you so much to J.L. Beck for the opportunity to read this as an ARC!

[Roxanne · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was kind of disappointed in this book. I read the first 3 and loved Sebastian and couldn’t wait to see how his and Ely’s story ended but this fell flat for me. For reference, I read the first book in this duo in a day and this one I downloaded on 11/11/24 and didn’t finish until 11/27/24. I laid it down at first becuase it wasn’t holding my interest and then went back to it a week later. I almost DNF’d it a few times but wanted to see how it ended.

I felt like the constant back and forth with Ely’s feelings got tiresome and Sebastian always dangling the carrot of what the secret was got old really quickly.

Whereas the marriage part I understood, I almost said “Nope! Definitely not reading any further now” when he had her injected with fertility medication without her consent and without even letting her know. I get that a lot of dark Romances have breeding kinks (I don’t like those books either) but this goes way beyond that. It was very off putting
And that was the 2nd time I put the book down for a week and almost didn’t come back.

I did finally finish it and am happy I got resolution to the past but I don’t feel that this book help up against the first half of their story.

That being said, I am looking forward to Lee’s book. I like his character a lot and am hoping for an excellent read.

[Flavia Florean-Dumitru · Rating 3 out of 5]

We finally have closure for Seb and Ely.

I did not like the first half of the book. I didn’t like her nor her actions. Nor the way she was thinking. But I did like him “I will love this woman until my very last breath is strangled in my lungs. I will fight for that privilege. And somehow...I'll make her love me back.”

I actually loved how unhinged he was for her, how much he was obsessed with her “I don't want to fight with her, not unless it leads to sex.”

And I must add my absolute favourite part of the book:

He nods, "I read this quote once. Oscar Wilde said 'we're all a little broken. That's how the light gets in.' It stuck with me because at the time I read it, I wanted it to be true. I wanted to be someone with light. I wanted to know that even if I was broken, it didn't mean I was unworthy, that I was done for.”

One of the best quotes I’ve read in a while. I felt that.

Other than that, what can I say. I enjoyed the black romance bits, but not the breeding k!nk, I enjoyed seeing more of Drew and Bel (truth be told, Drew and Bel > Seb and Elyse). And I’m giving it 3* in the end.

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I could not wait to read this book. I’ve been reading this series from the beginning and I am invested in all of these characters.

The Predator takes off where The Prey ended and I am so happy it did. In this book, we get a lot more of both, Sebastian’s and Elyse’s tragic pasts. Having to read about the abuse these two endured from people who should love them the most was incredible sad and heartbreaking.

We get to see a different side of Sebastian and I loved it. He did everything he had to in order to protect Elyse, even if his actions were questionable. I was so happy when Elyse found her strength and voice. I loved these two together and the ending leading us to the next book!

If you decide to read this book, remember that it is a dark/bully romance and please check all trigger warnings. If these are all good for you, then I would recommend. However, this series should be read in order.

Thank you J.L. Beck for the ARC for an honest review.

[Crystal Emerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a chefs kiss ending to the duet for for Seb and Elyse!

JL Beck has done it again, captivating me with a story that hit every single mark.

What I loved most in this book was Seb's complete and utter devotion to Elyse. We get more of Seb’s traumatic past and really get to see Elyse come into her own. It’s simply beautiful, poignant, and tender.

JL Beck's writing continues to keep me intrigued with the spice, the twists and turns and the character development. This book is able to balance the romance, the spice, the trauma and the plot all while feeling very cohesive.

I can’t wait for Lee’s story! This world continues to have me in a chokehold.

You should read this book if you like:
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Forced Marriage
🖤OTT O/P Hero
🖤 Breeding Kink
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Found Family

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️

[FS Meurinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This dark romance delivers a powerful conclusion to Sebastian and Elyse’s story. Both characters are deeply scarred by their pasts—Elyse struggles with abuse and betrayal, while Sebastian wrestles with revenge and his darker instincts. As their connection deepens, they navigate chaos, secrets, and unrelenting emotions. Sebastian’s transformation from tormentor to protector is compelling, and Elyse’s inner battle between love and survival is equally captivating. The story is packed with intense emotions, unexpected twists, and beautifully broken characters finding strength in one another. This story offers an unforgettable mix of suspense, passion, and redemption, setting the stage for more in the Oakmount Elite series. It is a gripping and emotional read, and I highly recommend it.

[Claudia |✨Cushin Violeta's Bookish Realm✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is the conclusion for Sebastian and Elyse's story.

I'd liked Sebastians's character from the first two books in this series I'd read about Bel and Drew and reading about what he had gone through also made me feel for the man who might come across as strong and ruthless, but was also carrying the deep wounds still inside.

But somehow I didn't feel as into this book as the previous ones. I felt a lot of internal dialogues were stretched out and also Sebastian and Elyse didn't connect with me.

That being said, I liked certain plot twists and especially the one reveal I'd been waiting for was - Elyse's past memories and what had actually happened that night.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

J.L. Beck delivering us another duet that did not disappoint! I thoroughly enjoyed Sebastian and Elyse’s story and let me tell you, revenge has never tasted so sweet in this part two - The Predator!

Seb & Ely have such an emotionally complex relationship and I empathized so much for both of these characters and their individual journeys. This is a story about love, hate, betrayal, loyalty, and growth. Their chosen family is down for whatever and their friendships are so fierce! Lastly, if you’re looking for some spice - you’ll find that here too!

The Predator did not disappoint in tying up Sebastian & Elyse’s story. If you have not read The Prey, please do because this is a duet. I also highly recommend starting with The Wallflower & The Wildflower duet as it truly introduces you to all the characters & the Oakmont universe and allows you to follow the characters within both duets easily. As always, please check the trigger warnings and take care of yourself. Can't wait for The Misfit!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni Amey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author has always been an instant read for me, so the second this book released I binge read it all in one day and don’t regret it one bit. It was amazing and kept me hooked right from the first page. It was emotional, spicy, and healing and I loved every second of it. If you have read The Prey then please read this! It was a solid 10/10 read for me and will keep reading anything this author writes!

[CiCi | bookameme · Rating 3 out of 5]

They’re all psychopaths and I’m questioning my own sanity and mental wellness for continuing to read. I should probably talk to my therapist to figure out why something like this is interesting, but I’m going to continue the series.

⚠️ Don’t read this if you don’t like taboo, dark, problematic romances with a mile long list of trigger warnings.

Dark Bully Romance
Problematic Rich People
Repressed Feelings
Dark Secrets
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Amanda Kintner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ely and Sebastians story has come to an end. I liked it but it wasn't my favorite. I really liked their story and how protective he was of her. This story almost seemed rush and I hoped for more of a story and fight with her dad. Overall I've really liked these characters, but also...how do they find someone to date them? Red flags waving high!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say? I love these two. The growth and love they have is so good. How they team up to fight their demons. At times I wanted to scream at Seb but he came through and changed his ways.

Now I need to read about Aries and Lee! Cannot wait!!

Thank you to JL Beck and CandiKanePR for letting me read this ARC for an honest review!