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The Hollow #2
Grieving Graves
*Previously published as Master of Death by M . H . B .*
One grave.
Two futures.
Almost three years of grief.
Four beating hearts healing from pain.
Five lives forever tied.
I never thought this would be my life.
And falling for my boss, Damon Dreygon, was never part of the plan.
I was meant to seek from him what my boyfriend, Harvey Stark, refused to give me—someone to kiss me, someone to touch me and maybe even someone to heal my wounds.
Instead in Damon, I found a mentor. I found an enigmatic dark prince. Most importantly, I found my voice coupled with my own strength.
This was never supposed to hurt Harvey.
Damon and I were never meant to be together.
With each choice, an entirely different future greets me, yet a few things remain the we’ve all known pain, we’re all in need of healing and we’ve all hurt each other in different ways.
All I wanted was for this melancholy to disappear so that I could find peace.
But peace is hard to reach when you’re too busy chasing secrets.
Secrets I wish would’ve stayed buried.
Secrets that meddle with my dreams.
Secrets I’ll be taking to the grave. . .
One grave.
Two futures.
Almost three years of grief.
Four beating hearts healing from pain.
Five lives forever tied.
I never thought this would be my life.
And falling for my boss, Damon Dreygon, was never part of the plan.
I was meant to seek from him what my boyfriend, Harvey Stark, refused to give me—someone to kiss me, someone to touch me and maybe even someone to heal my wounds.
Instead in Damon, I found a mentor. I found an enigmatic dark prince. Most importantly, I found my voice coupled with my own strength.
This was never supposed to hurt Harvey.
Damon and I were never meant to be together.
With each choice, an entirely different future greets me, yet a few things remain the we’ve all known pain, we’re all in need of healing and we’ve all hurt each other in different ways.
All I wanted was for this melancholy to disappear so that I could find peace.
But peace is hard to reach when you’re too busy chasing secrets.
Secrets I wish would’ve stayed buried.
Secrets that meddle with my dreams.
Secrets I’ll be taking to the grave. . .
310 pages, Paperback
Published October 14, 2024
About the author
M.H.B.
6 books143 followersM . H . B . graduated law from a Canadian University and loves spending time with her partner and her German Shepherd Dog. She has a passion for animals and enjoys the simple things in life: books, music, chocolate, sunny days and overall wellness. When she is not writing, her mind is in another world, with a book in hand.
Instagram: @mhb.author
Email: mhb.author@hotmail.com
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Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authormhb
Instagram: @mhb.author
Email: mhb.author@hotmail.com
Website: https://mhbmhb.wixsite.com/books
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/authormhb
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
October 14, 2024
Grieving Graves is the second book in the Hollow Series, which continues to follow the story of Damon and Gemma, in the wake of Gemma confessing to Harvey about her budding relationship with Damon. Gemma is struggling with being sure she wants to break up with Harvey and pursue a relationship with Damon.
This book is very angsty, raw and emotional. I felt like Gemma and Damon are different people in this one, (Or maybe I didn’t fully understand them in the first book). They seem much more juvenile but not in a bad way. In the first book I found myself relating to Gemma a lot but in this one not so much. But it’s like they were more realistic characters. The situations they went through are life altering and confusing so expecting them to show a high level of emotional maturity isn’t to be expected (especially when she’s only 24)
Because of all that, the story was chaotic and gave me whiplash at times, but again it seemed necessary. It was chaotic in a good way. It probably sounds like I didn’t enjoy it but I definitely did (although I like the first book better) and would highly recommend this duology to anyone who likes a lot of angst and emotion in their stories.
My only complaint is the epilogue. I’ve realized I really don’t like long drawn out epilogues that span a long period of time. Instead of doing several “one month later” “6 months later” “18 months later” etc, I’d rather authors just stick with one time and do a retrospective. Just stick to 18 months and explain everything that happened with a short summation. But that’s just personal preference.
This book is very angsty, raw and emotional. I felt like Gemma and Damon are different people in this one, (Or maybe I didn’t fully understand them in the first book). They seem much more juvenile but not in a bad way. In the first book I found myself relating to Gemma a lot but in this one not so much. But it’s like they were more realistic characters. The situations they went through are life altering and confusing so expecting them to show a high level of emotional maturity isn’t to be expected (especially when she’s only 24)
Because of all that, the story was chaotic and gave me whiplash at times, but again it seemed necessary. It was chaotic in a good way. It probably sounds like I didn’t enjoy it but I definitely did (although I like the first book better) and would highly recommend this duology to anyone who likes a lot of angst and emotion in their stories.
My only complaint is the epilogue. I’ve realized I really don’t like long drawn out epilogues that span a long period of time. Instead of doing several “one month later” “6 months later” “18 months later” etc, I’d rather authors just stick with one time and do a retrospective. Just stick to 18 months and explain everything that happened with a short summation. But that’s just personal preference.
March 17, 2025
Overall I enjoyed this duet, narrated by Gemma about her feelings for both Harvey and Damon. Well… she makes her choice from book one’s cliffhanger and fairly early on too, which I think was a mistake. Wanted more time between all of them to bring the angst to a maximum before the one not picked kind of disappears to an extent. Sex scenes dragged, or there were too many that a few could have been used for additional character development, I don’t know. There just felt like too many. All three of these characters pissed me off in their own specific ways but that’s a rant I’ll leave for someone else. There is a book 3 about the one not picked, but I’m on the fence if I’ll read because he wasn’t my choice and pissed me off the most so… maybe I’ll pass. The author herself I’ll follow and read past works.
I received a copy from BookSirens and am leaving this review in exchange.
I received a copy from BookSirens and am leaving this review in exchange.
October 26, 2024
Holy smokes she does it again! I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for Silent Screams and as soon as I was finished, I couldn’t wait to read Grieving Graves. MHB did a wonderful job with this one, yet again! I couldn’t put it down. I was so angry with Damon at first and then I understood everything! Holy Plot twist!!!! The way Damon loves Gemma is everything. Harv pisses me off and F**k Claire. Hen is the best!!
February 17, 2025
Okay this was the ending I needed, but the plot twist of who the fifth person's life who's life was changed was a good twist. I loved both books in this series.
November 5, 2024
"They say love gives people the power to destroy you. But perhaps that isn’t true. Perhaps what destroys us is our reluctance to walk away." 🖤
This was a really good second book in this duet series. I loved Gemma and Damon and I really rooted for their happily ever after and I wasn't disappointed with how the story actually went. There were a few good twists, 🌀some more obvious than others and I was quite pleased with myself that the one I thought I saw coming in book one, turned out almost (but not quite) as I expected. 💕
Couple of things made me mad, Gia has such a big mouth and it's actually selfish to be that inconsiderate and play it off as that's just how she is. 😡 How about just don't!! Harvey... So many points, but without giving spoilers, Harvey in general just made me mad!
Overall a good read, good, well written 🌶️, couple of tropes that generally aren't my go to, but this duet was an ARC read for me and it was enjoyable.
This was a really good second book in this duet series. I loved Gemma and Damon and I really rooted for their happily ever after and I wasn't disappointed with how the story actually went. There were a few good twists, 🌀some more obvious than others and I was quite pleased with myself that the one I thought I saw coming in book one, turned out almost (but not quite) as I expected. 💕
Couple of things made me mad, Gia has such a big mouth and it's actually selfish to be that inconsiderate and play it off as that's just how she is. 😡 How about just don't!! Harvey... So many points, but without giving spoilers, Harvey in general just made me mad!
Overall a good read, good, well written 🌶️, couple of tropes that generally aren't my go to, but this duet was an ARC read for me and it was enjoyable.
May 9, 2022
Amount of sex 3.5 / 5
How explicit are the sex scenes 4 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Master of Death is the second and final book in the Kisses of Sorrow series written by author M. H. B. I absolutely loved Kisser of Death, the first book in the series, and have been looking forward to finding out how Gemma’s story ends.
Master of Death begins where we left off, and I was immediately sucked back into the storyline. Like the first book, I quickly became captivated and turned the pages with fervor. Gemma is such a strong female character, and she’s trying to forge her path to her happily ever after. However, there are several secrets, a lot of guilt, and several twists along the way.
The Kisser of Sorrow series is a fabulous page-turner and a definite add to your TBR list.
Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy
How explicit are the sex scenes 4 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Master of Death is the second and final book in the Kisses of Sorrow series written by author M. H. B. I absolutely loved Kisser of Death, the first book in the series, and have been looking forward to finding out how Gemma’s story ends.
Master of Death begins where we left off, and I was immediately sucked back into the storyline. Like the first book, I quickly became captivated and turned the pages with fervor. Gemma is such a strong female character, and she’s trying to forge her path to her happily ever after. However, there are several secrets, a lot of guilt, and several twists along the way.
The Kisser of Sorrow series is a fabulous page-turner and a definite add to your TBR list.
Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy
April 28, 2022
This is the second book in this duet and I do recommend reading them in order. This read starts where the last book left off. Secrets, drama, emotion and pain. Gemma, Damon, Harvey and Claire have all been through so much individually and together. Can Gemma choose between Damon and Harvey? She knows where Harvey’s heart lies but can she let him go? Will they let go of the past and move forward or will those ghosts keep them from finding love. Great characters with lots of depth and emotion and steamy chemistry. I liked it.
February 14, 2025
Dirty Little Secret
I just wanted to protect Gemma in this continuation. The path was rough terrain in this one and my tandem emotional roller coaster continued with her.
Harvey, I understand his journey but he still left me feeling bitter towards him. I just couldn’t fully forgive his actions.
Damon really acted like a fool, but I still swoon for him. His baggage was definitely over the standard weight limit in this continuation but boy he kept things juicy for you.
Someone buy Gia a filter-she’s a walking spoiler. Sisters. Am I right?
I already have a love/hate with the premise of Frozen Flames (book 3). But I can’t look away and need to read the next installment, begrudgingly and excitedly.
M.H.B was continued her quest to seamlessly incorporate themes about life, relationships and grief. Sharing some that really stood out in this book:
“I swear to God this is what purgatory feels like. We don’t feel it when we die. We’re not faced with the consequences of our actions then. No, no. We’re forced to stare at our actions right in the face of the wild flames called life.”
“A breakup always means losing more than the partner. It means losing the family that came with it, the dreams, the future. Everything runs dry, leaving you feeling hopeless and helpless.”
“Death is probably the most painless, calmest, most beautiful experience anyone can go through. It’s leaving our loved ones behind that kills; the rest is truly finding peace in this dark, dark world.”
I received a copy of this book from M.H.B. I am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
I just wanted to protect Gemma in this continuation. The path was rough terrain in this one and my tandem emotional roller coaster continued with her.
Harvey, I understand his journey but he still left me feeling bitter towards him. I just couldn’t fully forgive his actions.
Damon really acted like a fool, but I still swoon for him. His baggage was definitely over the standard weight limit in this continuation but boy he kept things juicy for you.
Someone buy Gia a filter-she’s a walking spoiler. Sisters. Am I right?
I already have a love/hate with the premise of Frozen Flames (book 3). But I can’t look away and need to read the next installment, begrudgingly and excitedly.
M.H.B was continued her quest to seamlessly incorporate themes about life, relationships and grief. Sharing some that really stood out in this book:
“I swear to God this is what purgatory feels like. We don’t feel it when we die. We’re not faced with the consequences of our actions then. No, no. We’re forced to stare at our actions right in the face of the wild flames called life.”
“A breakup always means losing more than the partner. It means losing the family that came with it, the dreams, the future. Everything runs dry, leaving you feeling hopeless and helpless.”
“Death is probably the most painless, calmest, most beautiful experience anyone can go through. It’s leaving our loved ones behind that kills; the rest is truly finding peace in this dark, dark world.”
I received a copy of this book from M.H.B. I am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2025
I couldn't wait to read this 2nd book in this series; and again, I received the ARC copy from Hidden Gems. This book picked up right where the first one left off! (Yes, I would agree with others, that you need to read them in order, to get the whole picture.)
This book continues the drama between Gemma, Damon and Harvey, and some of their life altering incidents, which is a perfect follow-up to Silent Screams. This book is so filled with emotions, the reader can't help but feel each one, right through the page!
I felt this book had a bit too much back and forth, in time, but some of the information shared was sometimes needed to get the full picture. I loved the twists; small and larger scaled, with just the right amount of spice! I have to admit that I was not a fan of Gia's, nor one of Harvey's in either book, but I guess you need those irritating characters to allow for the love and interests in the others!
I will forever love this author after this series!
This book continues the drama between Gemma, Damon and Harvey, and some of their life altering incidents, which is a perfect follow-up to Silent Screams. This book is so filled with emotions, the reader can't help but feel each one, right through the page!
I felt this book had a bit too much back and forth, in time, but some of the information shared was sometimes needed to get the full picture. I loved the twists; small and larger scaled, with just the right amount of spice! I have to admit that I was not a fan of Gia's, nor one of Harvey's in either book, but I guess you need those irritating characters to allow for the love and interests in the others!
I will forever love this author after this series!
Read
February 7, 2025And the roller coaster continues...Read at your own risk, with this heartbreaking conclusion to Gemma's story. HEA is in sight, but gotta hang in for the bumpy ride to get there.
Not wanting to spoil anything in this one, it's just too good, but the secrets come to light, the already tumultuous relationships are tested further. Definitely has the "one doors shuts, another opens - or at least a window does" feels, mixed with intense emotions.
We still are told the story from Gemma's POV, which after becoming an avid Dual POV reader is frustrating, but it is so well written I don't feel I miss anything.
This is raw, passionate and beautifully tragic that ends in a happy ending of peace.
Can't wait for next in the series and definitely adding H.M.B. to my backlist of reads.
Not wanting to spoil anything in this one, it's just too good, but the secrets come to light, the already tumultuous relationships are tested further. Definitely has the "one doors shuts, another opens - or at least a window does" feels, mixed with intense emotions.
We still are told the story from Gemma's POV, which after becoming an avid Dual POV reader is frustrating, but it is so well written I don't feel I miss anything.
This is raw, passionate and beautifully tragic that ends in a happy ending of peace.
Can't wait for next in the series and definitely adding H.M.B. to my backlist of reads.
October 16, 2024
This book did not disappoint, the emotional turmoil continued for poor Gemma with the situation with Harvey reaching breaking point. I despised Harvey for the truly cruel and horrific words he spoke and at points my kindle almost went across the room in anger for poor Gemma as my heart broke. Just when you think Gemma may finally be getting her happily ever after this incredible author once again broke my heart completely with an ultimate betrayal I didn’t see coming she has to piece herself back together once again. The pain, emotions and relationships between the first book silent screams left me reeling in all the best ways and I look foward to Harvey and Claire’s story.
October 13, 2024
This book did not disappoint, the emotional turmoil continued for poor Gemma with the situation with Harvey reaching breaking point. I despised Harvey for the truly cruel and horrific words he spoke and at points my kindle almost went across the room in anger for poor Gemma as my heart broke. Just when you think Gemma may finally be getting her happily ever after this incredible author once again broke my heart completely with an ultimate betrayal I didn’t see coming and she has to piece herself back together once again The pain, emotions and relationships between the first book silent screams left me reeling in all the best ways and I look foward to Harvey and Claire’s story.
Read
November 4, 2024Wow loved this series. This is the second book and the first must be read first. I thought I had figured it out while reading the first and I was almost correct. This book continues where Gemma must decide that she truly loves Damon and that she has to let Harvey go to truly grow. We find out what has been troubling Damon in this book and I won't give any spoilers but you need to read these books. I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.
November 10, 2024
This is the second book in the series and I would highly recommend that you read the first book before this one. Book two picks up right where book one left off. Emotional, suspense, tension, drama, tears, choices to be made and secrets revealed. Great rollercoaster of a story! A bit rushed at the end but overall an excellent read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 18, 2024
I loved and hated the same things about this book: the heartbreak, loss, tragedy, and sadness. It was definitely a tearjerker.
In this sequel, the love triangle resumes, secrets are revealed, and hearts are broken. No one gets out unscathed; Gemma, Harvey, Damon, and Claire are in for a wild ride.
I enjoyed the conclusion and thought everyone got the ending they deserved.
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for the free copy of the book.
February 11, 2025
The author's writing is very clear and focused, and the plot was very addictive. I found Damon's behavior to be toxic at times and I wish Gemma wouldn't have given up on her dreams. I was waiting for the shoe to drop on Damon's secret, as I figured it out way ahead of time, and I wouldn't have forgiven him, but to each their own. There were a lot of steamy scenes but they were a little more underwhelming than in other books.
October 20, 2024
Great series
The ending was a bit rushed but it was a great store. I had a hard time with how some bug issues were glossed over but I get trying to out the whole story into two books. It makes some pieces have to be left out. overall this book series was very enjoyable and I really felt connected to the characters and what they were feeling.
The ending was a bit rushed but it was a great store. I had a hard time with how some bug issues were glossed over but I get trying to out the whole story into two books. It makes some pieces have to be left out. overall this book series was very enjoyable and I really felt connected to the characters and what they were feeling.
February 6, 2025
Her life is interwoven with him but she has a boyfriend. Things are going to get more complicated as their lives seem to be going out of control. Follow her as her secrets may just ruined it all so see what is going to happen next
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it was a wonderful gift from a wonderful author
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it was a wonderful gift from a wonderful author
February 16, 2025
Gemma's story continues and picks up right where book one left off. Gemma is torn between her love for Damon and her responsibility to Harvey. You're emotions are in for a ride and when Gemma discovers why Damon doesn't want to open up? Oh man! I really enjoyed this series!! I am looking forward to Harvey's story!!
March 22, 2025
A Goodreads Giveaway. Definitely need to read book #1 in the series first. I feel like the titles and covers of these books make you think they are going to be a lot “darker” than they really are. I enjoyed the books, the reality of the characters inner turmoil. I would read this author again. (book two is definitely spicier than book 1)
April 7, 2025
This is the second book in the series. I would definitely recommend reading the first book before this one. So much going on, you find answers to secrets. There’s tension, drama and suspense. And the PLOT TWIST!! Oh MY Gosh I did not see that coming!!! Such an emotional great read!!
I received an Advance Review Copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2024
The Second book behind Silent Screams.
This is an amazing duo.
I have thought about this duo often since finishing it..
I of course fell in love with the MMC and found his dark a mysterious past intriguing. I did not see the spin coming.
This is an amazing duo.
I have thought about this duo often since finishing it..
I of course fell in love with the MMC and found his dark a mysterious past intriguing. I did not see the spin coming.
October 15, 2024
This story was super, super emotional for me!
Man did the author take me through the wringer!
This is a story about emotions, temptations, physical and psychological needs!
I definitely had my up and down moments spent with Gemma, Harvey and Damon!
This was an amazing duet!
Man did the author take me through the wringer!
This is a story about emotions, temptations, physical and psychological needs!
I definitely had my up and down moments spent with Gemma, Harvey and Damon!
This was an amazing duet!
February 11, 2025
This is the culmination to the series, and it is phenomenal. I was on the edge of my seat with my emotions all over the place. The story and plots are well written along with the characters made this an outstanding story to read.
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book.
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book.
March 18, 2025
This book left me breathless. The roller coaster of a ride this book sent me through gave me whiplash, but in a good way if that’s even a thing. I couldn’t put this book down till I finished it. Even as it ended I felt I need more😭
April 7, 2025
3/5
Слава Богу, що дилогія закінчилась 😅
Слава Богу, що дилогія закінчилась 😅
December 9, 2024
LOVEEEE
I absolutely love this book. It isn't only smut- it has a story. A great, well thought-out story. The characters are amazing and written well. The holes (left from the previous book) and new topics introduced are well-explained. This book left me satisfied, especially after the previous one. Great book, amazing love story <3333
I absolutely love this book. It isn't only smut- it has a story. A great, well thought-out story. The characters are amazing and written well. The holes (left from the previous book) and new topics introduced are well-explained. This book left me satisfied, especially after the previous one. Great book, amazing love story <3333
December 12, 2024
The second book was just as good! I was totally shocked when I learned of the secret he was hiding. These were just fantastic storylines full of emotions and it was so easy to continue reading!
February 6, 2025
Couldn't wait for the conclusion of Damon and Gemma's story. Was on the edge of my seat while reading. SO many plot twists. Angsty, emotional, detailed story. Way better than five stars!!!!
March 17, 2025
Great book. Great series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews