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Secure in the Arms of a Thug 2

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In the touching conclusion to Secure in the Arms of a Thug, Royelle and Syre pick up right where they left off in their intense and captivating romance. A jealous ex threatens Royelle’s safety, sending Syre into a frenzy. Having vowed to protect her with his life, Syre is guilt ridden after letting someone get close enough to attack. Syre’s new vow is to avenge his Elle at all costs.

Meanwhile, finding out the surprising twist of the pain she caused Syre haunts Royelle like a recurrent nightmare. Just when life was looking up for her, Royelle’s future is threatened by a decision she made in a moment of desperation. How can their love story survive her betrayal?

When secrets are unraveled, the complicated love connection faces the ultimate test. In this deeply emotional journey of love, loss, and redemption, Syre and Royelle realize that some connections aren’t easily broken.

204 pages, Paperback

Published August 14, 2024

404 people are currently reading
210 people want to read

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Tatum James

62 books485 followers

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5 stars
1,256 (65%)
4 stars
476 (24%)
3 stars
157 (8%)
2 stars
24 (1%)
1 star
5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
Profile Image for Ebony.
268 reviews34 followers
December 20, 2024
3.5⭐️
I did enjoy the narration of the audiobook.

The ending just felt so…RUSHED. idk
Profile Image for JMonique.
96 reviews20 followers
December 2, 2024
Love, love, loveeeeee this!!!
So sad to reach the ending of Syre & Royelle’s story! The love he has for her is unmatched! Catering to her every need & showing her the love & security she needed after dealing with a man like Abel! Syre was EVERYTHING!!! 🙌🏾

Abel was so dumb 😭😭😭 he got exactly what he deserved! I was over him since book 1! Him & Rachel were trash & they deserved each other!

Layken 😩 I hated to see what happened with her but I knew the inevitable was coming!. She was there for Royelle when she had no one & it sucks things ended the way they did for her!

Overall I love this series so far! Can’t wait to get into Bishops story next!.
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,519 reviews96 followers
June 5, 2024
Now Miss James, I went into this read with great trepidation, as you left me in shambles after book one. I feared for Royelle’s safety, as Abel is off his damn rocker, almost manic. I was so anxious to find out what would happen; that I couldn’t calm down enough to enjoy it, waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Syre was beside himself with worry when he couldn’t get a hold of Royelle. He knew something was wrong with his beauty. Using his resources he finds her and learns more about her dysfunctional family along the way. Someone was going to pay for hurting his wife, and he was not letting her out of his sight anytime soon. 😥

Royelle still traumatized about what she endured, was glad that Syre held her so close. However, she couldn’t release the thoughts of what she had done, and how she was going to tell him. Then to find out the surprise they shared, made it that much harder for her to come clean.

When Royelle couldn’t take it anymore and told her truth, I held my breath, as I was sure that Syre was going to explode. He did put her out, rightfully so, but the maturity he displayed throughout the whole ordeal blew me away. Syre had grown, he loved his wife, she was his home, and no matter how he tried to hate her, he couldn’t. The faith that she helped him restore, taught him how to forgive during the storm. ❤ I must say I was not ready for that as Syre was a hothead, but it was a nice surprise. I’m sure it helped that Royelle was remorseful, and willing to walk away from him for the sin she committed. The love, commitment, safety, and protection they provided for each other was next level, and I’m happy they were able to get past that huge obstacle.

Now Bishop….. Just came out swinging huh? Will he find out the connection? Will Syre and Royelle be able to keep the secret? Cannot wait to dive into Dark Reign Dynasty. We still have many stones left unturned, and a threat still exists. But I’m ready. 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
Profile Image for ReadnliftwithShar.
1,834 reviews
October 11, 2024
🫠

Book two was just okay to me. I felt like there was not enough consequences towards Abel. Also, there was a lot of build up at the end of book one that it took too long to actually address those issues in this one.
Profile Image for Tisha.
1,217 reviews
February 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️

Ugh! I hate to say this, but I didn’t like or love it. Book 1 was fast paced and engaging overall. And after waiting a few weeks for the conclusion- this really missed the mark for me.

First off, book 2 is less than 200 pages- which was my hint that the overarching story had to continue into multiple books. Especially because at least 55% of the story focused on Abel, Syre, Rachel, and Royelle.

The entire time I’m wondering when will the other real mystery get addressed. The plot involving Layken?! At one point I was thinking did she forget about it?!

Only to finally address it in the epilogue. The entire outcome for Abel and Rachel debacle was anticlimactic. None of this would’ve mattered, except we spent book 1 introducing all of these angles: Bishop and the arranged marriage, Abel and Rachel, Layken and her assassin job, the Reign family and their criminal enterprise. And book 2 focused heavily on the simplest storyline. The one that could’ve been addressed and over within 2-3 chapters.

When the real tea (if we weren’t addressing the Layken angle) was how Royelle’s secret would impact their marriage? And really both of those storylines go together.

But the resolution between Royelle and Syre was unrealistic. His mother figure?! We resolved such a huge violation in the final 2 chapters. And the friend’s involvement in the epilogue?! Seriously? Naw I would rather Abel get handled in the first 2 and the remainder focus on the egregious betrayal. Plus throwing in a baby really soured me to the “resolution.”

Quite disappointing. I’m looking forward to Bishop’s book. Hopefully we will finally get somewhere with what really happened and why.
Profile Image for SumFire.
645 reviews2 followers
December 18, 2024
This is the end of Syre and Royelle’s love story. The Dark Reign Dynasty Saga is just beginning, and I, for one, can't wait to see what awaits Bishop and Psalms!

I'm very selective in my book Bae's as every woman should be, but let me tell y'all that Syre Reign is simply amazing. Easily made the cut! The passion, love, and security that this man provided for her was simply unmatched.

"I was angry that it had taken me damn near thirty years to find Royelle. I was angry that, eventually, I had to pull out of her to eat, drink, and live life. "

Royelle was dealt a bad hand. Raised by an aunt who hated and resented her. She was betrayed by her family and the man who was supposed to love her. Sis was just trying to live while learning to love and trust that what Syre was offering was genuine.
important.

"I want you here because before you came here, I thought that I was home. Then I realized that you were home. Home isn’t a place, but a level of comfort. You give me that comfort. Wherever you are is where I want to be, my Elle.”

Those things done in the dark to survive, have a way of coming back around and almost cost her everything...

Shoot, she and I were both holding our breath this entire book!
And d*** If they didn't make a thug cry at the end. Karma ain't just a chameleon 😉
Profile Image for Amber Fleming.
130 reviews9 followers
June 4, 2024
Im gonna miss Syre and Royelle but im definitely looking forward to Bishops story.
Profile Image for Nikkia Chante’.
189 reviews5 followers
December 1, 2024
Part two was just as good as part one. I love me some Syre. God truly put him and Royelle together. Although Abel got what he deserved, I wish more would have happened to Rachel. But what she did get I’m glad came from Royelle. And Layken, it was inevitable but it still was sad when it was all said and done. I’m extremely happy for the Reigns.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for AlexTRBG.
270 reviews19 followers
April 14, 2025
2.75/3

Honestlyyyyy, I feel like this should’ve just been one book. The big reveal at the end of part 1 was interesting, but I don’t think it was followed through the best in part 2. I felt like the pacing was way off and both MCs were annoying by the end. I’d still read more from the author tho, just don’t think this lil duology was for me 🤷🏽‍♀️
Profile Image for Shanelle.
1,476 reviews21 followers
March 7, 2025
GREAT READ

Syre and Royelle's story continues with Syre on a hunt for revenge. I love how Syre is showing his softer side when it comes to his love, and protectiveness over Royelle. I was glad she finally found the courage to tell Syre what she did, and although he was shocked and hurt, he still couldn't just move on without her. There is truly a soul tie between these two, and I love everybit of it. This is definitely a story of two imperfect people who are perfect for each other.
Profile Image for Q. Moore.
954 reviews37 followers
June 30, 2024
A Strong Pillar

Ms. Tatum, job well done. This two book series had us on the edge. I did not know how Syre was going to take learning the truth from Royelle. However, to witness a man of his stature humble himself and seek therapy was admirable. He knew that his heart belonged to Royelle no matter what she did before he met her. Syre took care of his wife whether she was an arm length away from him or across town. He took his role as a husband seriously. My heart went out to Royelle because life was throwing her lemons left and right. She lost Layken, and it practically ripped her heart out. She finally got a squeeze out of the lemon and made some lemonade. Her mother got out of prison, and she was able to rebuild that relationship. Her other best friend Amoura was finally released, so she will be around when she is raising baby, Sir. Alhough, Royelle had quite a few speed bumps in this thing called life she got her happily ever after. Syre loves her with all his heart, and their family is growing.

You guys have to get into this series because these Reign men are not to be played with. Syre may have been the baby boy, but he is still a strong pillar in the family dynamic. Also, the way Author Tatum introduced "The Dark Reign Dynasty Saga" was smooth as a baby's bottom. I am anticipating reading Bishop's story because there are a lot of stones that have been left unturned. If you can not tell by now, I highly suggest this series get into it.
Profile Image for The Urban Fiction Librarian.
370 reviews41 followers
October 21, 2024
WHEW!!!! The emotions. The rawness. The ride this story takes you on. Baby Tatum did her BIG ONE with this series and although I cussed her out a lot, I loved Syre & Royelle real bad. Book 1 ended with Royelle finding out the hand she played in Syre’s aunt passing away. Baby my heart hurt for her. Fast forward she ends up encountering B.A. Abel and things turn all bad.

When Syre realize Royelle is missing baby, he turns the city every which way but LOOSE. When he finally gets to Royelle and realizes the condition that she is in, y’all couldn’t tell me he wasn’t finna show his whole ssa. Baby the emotions Syre shows us. WHEW!!!! Who would have thought the man everyone considered to never take anything serious, could go so hard behind his wife. I was here for it.

Y’all the love, the emotions, the strength, the closeness, 2 people willing to go beyond and more for each other. Yes!!!! I was here for it all. When Royelle finally told Syre her secret, my lil heart HURT. Because I just know the way he loved her, it broke him. WHEW!!!! I wasn’t ready. This story shows just how love can heal the broken. I mean 2 broken people found love and despite the things that was suppose to tear them apart. They still chose each other. Secure in the Arms of a Thug series is a must read!

Stamped,
The Urban Fiction Librarian
Profile Image for Shanae.
659 reviews18 followers
December 19, 2024
The Secure In The Arms of a Thug books by Tatum James are fast-paced engaging urban romances with two dynamic, albeit stereotypical, characters. The MMC, Syre Reign, is everything you want in a book bae, especially when you're reading dark or urban fiction. The FMC, Royelle Jacobs, is irritating but I think that's what every FMC is - she's stubborn, jumps to conclusions, and simply refuses to let a rich man take care of her lol. In book 1 a little bit of ground work is laid about Syre and Royelle's relationship, but you really see it bloom in Secure In The Arms of a Thug Book 2 as the two overcome secrets, grief, and loss. The result? A different kind of urban romance where the topics of grief, forgiveness, and mental health are intertwined so closely in what would 100% be a toxic relationship in real life, but is totally ideal in the land of urban fiction. I was thoroughly impressed by Tatum James's storytelling, though there were some grammatical errors and some repetition, I thought the story flowed nicely and the writer kept me engaged. I want to read the rest of the Dark Reigns Dynasty series, which includes Promised To A Street King about Syre's older brother Bishop. There's also a spinoff (?) not included in the Dark Reigns Dynasty about Syre's younger brother Psalm called Psalm. I look forward to catching up with the rest of the Reign family.

Spice Rating: 2.5/5

Content Warnings:
Graphic: Cursing, Physical abuse, Sexual content, Grief, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Death, Drug use, Toxic relationship, Violence, Medical content, Toxic friendship, and Alcohol
Minor: Gun violence, Infidelity, Blood, Death of parent, Murder, and Abandonment
1,035 reviews8 followers
June 5, 2024
Syre Reign

That man, that man, that man! Syre Reign was bae. The man loved his wife uncodtionally and anticipated her needs before she could even think of verbalize them. I loved how they loved each other and provided each other the safe space they needed to feel at home. Syre gave Royelle stability and protection, something she lacked from a young age and Royelle helped restore Syre’s faith and believe that he was capable of love. I loved that he was able to forgive Royelle and understand that she did something out of desperation and not out of malice and that they were able to move on from that. They really were the best when they were together.

Abel got what he deserved and Rachel needed another a*$ whooping for her snakelike behavior. I liked how the author wrapped up Layken’s piece of this story neatly and without any preamble. Now I’m looking forward to more of the Reign family. This is definitely a must read follow up to book 1.
Profile Image for Cat E..
Author 3 books60 followers
October 20, 2024
Forgiveness

The conclusion of Royelle and Syre's story truly left a lasting impression. I found it immensely satisfying that she finally had the courage to reveal her involvement in his aunt's tragic fate. What warmed my heart even more was Syre's unwavering commitment to protecting her from the judgment of his family by keeping her secret safe. It leaves me curious, though—will this revelation come to light in future books?

Additionally, I was deeply moved by Syre's willingness to be vulnerable and express his feelings. It’s refreshing to see male characters openly share their emotions, especially when it comes to love. Witnessing Syre's growth throughout the narrative, particularly as he takes the significant step of entering therapy on his journey to healing, adds tremendous depth to his character. The portrayal of his emotional evolution not only enhances the story but also highlights the importance of mental health in personal development and relationships.
Profile Image for Lizzy Clark.
794 reviews29 followers
April 13, 2025
So looking forward to what’s next for this family…

LET’S JUST SAY I’M THANKFUL THE QUEEN THOUGHT ENOUGH TO LET US KNOW ALL THE UNANSWERED QUESTIONS WILL BE ANSWERED IN BISHOPS STORY 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
RACHEL AND THAT BIH AZZ 🥷 ABEL DESERVED EACH OTHER. I REALLY WANTED HER AIN’T ISH AZZ AUNTIE TO GET SOME FORM OF KARMA FOR THE WAY SHE TREATED HER AND HER CONNIVING WAYS
SYRE & ELLE GAVE ME ALL THE FEELS. THESE TWO MOST DEFINITELY NEEDED EACH OTHER MORE THAN THEY REALIZED. ALTHOUGH HOW THEY STARTED WAS CONVENTIONAL, THEY FELL HARD AND FAST. THE WAY THAT SYRE LOVED AND PROTECTED HER AT ALL COST. SYRE NEVER TRULY FELT APPRECIATED OR WANTED UNTIL HE MET HER. THE WAY HE PRAYED FOR HER AND WITH HER. HIM GOING TO THERAPY 🙌🏽. SYRE FOUND OUT ABOUT HER SECRET AND WAS LIKE WE’RE TALKING THIS TO THE GRAVE.
I WOULD MOST DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS SERIES
Profile Image for Tracey.
1,060 reviews4 followers
June 6, 2024
Excellent Ending

Tatum you did it again, the way Syre had grown and matured since meeting Royalle was a true testimony because the way he handle her kidnapping, abuse, and the secret she held for fear of losing him. Now when he came to her new place and asked for them to pray getting on their knees was just amazing reassuring that he was on the right path for forgiveness as well as believing again. It was a mission that brought them together but fate and faith keep them as one.
1,197 reviews4 followers
June 8, 2024
Absolutely Amazing Read

Syre was the most amazing husband and protector that Royelle could have ever dreamed of having. He was not going to rest until his wife was safe. Abel deserved every bit of the punishment that Syre inflicted upon him! Royelle suffered heavily from the secret she was keeping. Once it was revealed, it hurt their marriage deeply. Their love was strong enough to heal their hearts, with the help of prayer and strength. They made things work for them. This was an outstanding read! I can't wait to read more about the Reign's!
Profile Image for Tarro Stokes-Funches.
1,858 reviews
June 5, 2024
Great Series!!
This book of redemption, forgiveness, and unconditional love was a great reprieve from the usual thug books. It gave just the right amount of humor, jealousy, and love. The way Syre loved in Elle/Beautiful, was heartwarming. I'm happy she matured in this book and not do all of that back and forth. I'm happy her mother got out and is a part of her and her grandbaby's life. I'm ready for Bishop's story, I hope Elle stays safe throughout the rest of the books.
408 reviews5 followers
June 7, 2024
Loved it!!

When I tell you I loved every bit of this story!!! Syre and his Elle had me all in my emotions. The love they shared was felt through every word that was written on each page. I was happy as well as sad when Syre found out the truth, but I was glad it came from her and not anyone else. I just need to know who was really begging the hit. Of course, we have our theories, so I can't wait to see what unfolds next.
Profile Image for Tarsha Woods.
1,194 reviews
June 5, 2024
Healing

Forgiveness is not for the weak and will in fact be the hardest task for anyone to accomplish in life. Grieving isn’t just losing someone in death we go through a difficult time when relationships are disrupted (family, friends or significant others). Letting go of hurt will bring joy one didn’t know or believed they needed.
779 reviews3 followers
June 11, 2024
Syre and Elle

Elle told Syre the truth and he was devasted. Elle moved in with Layken but she was just as devasted if not more than Syre. Syre turned to God to help heal his broken heart and spirit! Could his love for Elle heal his loss of the only mother figure he had left! Elle had to learn to foregive herself! Was their love strong enough to get through anything? A great read!
Profile Image for Shawn Hawkins.
1,583 reviews2 followers
June 12, 2024
Great Love Story

Syre and Rayelle love story once again waa amazing. The love they shared was so intense I couldn't stop reading. He definitely didn't play when it came to Rayelle. I enjoyed how after her secret was revealed how their story ended. Author definitely kept me intrigued with the storyline. Excellent series
Profile Image for Kinya Williams.
249 reviews2 followers
June 5, 2024
Epic!

Syre & Royelle!!! This was a beautiful conclusion to an Epic love story. Although I wanted Elle to keep her secret from Syre, the author did a beautiful job of writing a story of forgiveness and love!
Profile Image for derrellee.
213 reviews8 followers
June 7, 2024
This was so good . I really enjoyed this . Syre is my man my man my man . The story was so different. MMC was sexy and funny had me laughing. Tatum James will have you giggling and kicking your feet. 5 star read. Go buy and support.
986 reviews4 followers
June 28, 2024
Reign On Me!

Love truly changed Syre Reign, and made him a better man. Otherwise, Royelle Jacobs would have been repast for the hogs! After overcoming her treacherous, backstabbing cousin Rachael, and her slithering snake of a boyfriend Abel who brutally assaulted her but STILL thought she would take him back, Royelle had to overcome the anguish she felt upon discovering that she had taken the life of Syre's beloved Aunt Delilah!
Profile Image for Angelia Rhodes.
1,619 reviews1 follower
December 29, 2024
The Pressure

Whew Chile, the pressure is getting worser,(LOL). If you know, you know. Everything about this series is 🔥. I love the love between these 2. Prayer is a powerful tool.
108 reviews
March 14, 2025
When folks say love can be the biggest redemption in life sometimes , this book held true to that. While they met under extremely random circumstances Royelle and Syre story was definitely a different one. She met him at an engagement party for his brother but in reality was there to murder his aunt while her friend was suppose to kill him smh. How she actually met him was they both were on the balcony getting fresh air because he didn’t want to be there and she needed air due to what she had just done he took one look at her and decided he wanted her for himself and did what he needed to do. The amount of love he had for her for him to forgive her what she did is astounding and truly beautiful. Definitely enjoyed this
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for BetweentheCoversLiterary .
1,510 reviews33 followers
August 3, 2025
My heart almost couldn’t take it but my girl Royelle just didn’t know what the hell she was getting into but the love her and Syre share is exactly what God ordered for them both… I’m so happy they got their happy ending but I wanna know what happens when the rest of the family finds out
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