Ravager

Twisted Bonds #1.5

by S.B. Hazel

Running through a haunted Halloween maze, I feel the heat rising inside me—chased by a sexy devil in a mask, hotter than I ever imagined.

The thought of being captured, ravaged, ruined… it tempts me beyond reason. I want to stumble, to fall and surrender, to feel his arms close around me.

Desire and fear churn in a terrifying mix, my body burning for what comes next.

I want to be his, to be wrecked by the faceless man at my back.

When he catches me, what will he do? Will I succumb to his darkest desires?

Ravager is a 12k MM novella featuring a Halloween maze and primal play.

Genres: M M Romance, Novella, Dark, Enemies To Lovers, Dark Romance, Contemporary, Halloween

72 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 20, 2024

Reviews

[Megan [At The Cottage] · Rating 4 out of 5]

MM Erotica
Mask Primal Play
4 Stars ⭐️


This was hot 🥵 and the fact it’s going to be a full length novel soon? Please sign me up. It’s also a bit taboo if I understood the family dynamics correctly. Avery gets bought at an auction on Halloween by a masked man. It involves a chase and a lap dance but Cole definitely got his money’s worth. I didn’t realize this was the same author who writes super dark taboo books under a different alias but consider me intrigued.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

This was a really short introduction to Cole and Avery but it definitely intrigued me enough to want to read their full length book when it's available.

Loved the hunt through the maze and the tension between them because Avery had no clue it was the man he hated that was behind the facepaint.

I did find the sex scenes a little hard to believe considering Cole says he's never done anything with a man before, yet he's immediately an expert...

I am very curious to see how Avery reacts when he finds out the mystery man was Cole 👀👀👀🍿 🍿 🍿

*****
I received an ARC of this book from Book Sirens, and this is my honest review

[Jess | jadecanread · Rating 3 out of 5]

Shut the front door, WE'RE GETTING COLE AND AVERY'S STORY!

This is a short, smutty MM novella with hidden identity, chasing, and first time with a guy moment.

First off, I LOVE seeing the dual POV here. Cole was kinda (not kinda at all) a dick during Zelda's story but seeing him down BAD for Avery? Delicious.

What this does right: it knows what it's trying to accomplish (short hot interaction between the two) and it gets the job done.

What leaves me wanting: I wanted this to really ~go there~ but completely understand that isn't in the cards for these two just yet.

But still, I'm stoked for this full hate-to-love story to come to light!

[readwithcharlotteb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and spicy. Cant wait for book 2

[Evy S · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short, exciting and smutty novella 3/5 ⭐️

As always with S.B. Hazel’s books, I devoured it. I really hope Cole and Avery get a sequel, they deserve it.

[L.R. Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

SB Hazel always manages to write the steamiest romps, and this novella is no different! Perfect for Halloween, a chase through a different kind of maze by a masked stalker that will leave you breathless. Just like Avery, haha.

I wish that there had been a little discovery/ realization at the end where he found out, but hopefully that will come in their full-length novel, which I'm looking forward to.

Incidentally, I thought I had read Puppeteer & the follow-on Free Fall but can't find them in my books, so gonna go hunt those down as well

[Shrike · Rating 5 out of 5]

OKAAAY. Whew. Short and spicy and not-so-sweet M/M antics. I hadn't gotten into this series before as I am not a fan of pairings involving M/F...but I'll absolutely be keeping an eye out for more of Avery and Cole.

Thank you for the chance to check this story out for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.

[Allison Young · Rating 3 out of 5]

fast paced novella that absolutely doesn't leave anything at the door.
It gets down to business fast and doesn't muck around.
I'm interested enough to keep an eye out for the upcoming novel... seeing Cole and Avery's relation develop will be... hmmmm depraved.

[Crex · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can’t wait for the book because I need more ☺️😩
Enemies to lovers, mask twisted family then the Smut💃 sign me up

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm back with another SB Hazel review and unfortunately or fortunately, it's just like all the other books. A fucking hit.
This is a novella, very short, but gets you invested. Just like Puppeteer, if you haven't read it definitely read it's also a Halloween novella, it is the appetizer to the main book that will be coming out at a later date.
This book follows one of the twins, from Puppeteer, and his obsession Avery.
The book is a secret identity because masks and makeup is used so there is a bit of dubious consent there. The premise of the book is an action, quick jaunt through a corn maze and then a lap dance. Ideally no touching but that definitely does not happen for this couple. There is a whole lot of touching and it got real spicy real fast. With all SB books, the spice is going to hit every time! The ending was my favorite because you got to see a little into how Avery truly feels about the twins because technically he got him banished from the establishment...
Hopefully this didn't give too much away, it's truly is a fun quick read that packs a punch and leaves you ready for the full length because these two are going to be fun to watch i can already tell

[Jennay Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delicious. Fun. Raw and so spicy! Would absolutely read a full length novel with these characters!

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was hot and a perfect little tease for what I already know is gonna be a fire full length novel for Cole & Avery! And exactly the kind of quick and dirty masked men read we all love during spooky season.

I just know these two are gonna be as messy and feral for each other as their predecessors were. This entire family is just oozing with toxic drama and I am living for it!

The only reason I’m going with 4/5 rather than a full 5 ⭐️ is because I was literally crossing my fingers and toes that we’d get a super dramatic cliffy where the angel walks in to find the pile of dirty wipes knowing who had just walked out that door..lol IYKYK

Also, If you haven’t already read The Puppeteer novella followed by Free Fall, trust me when I say you’re definitely gonna wanna read those first—you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you skipped them and jumped straight into this one. Plus, they will take you on quite a ride!

[S.K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heading into Halloween season, it seemed appropriate to start reading/reviewing things that are a little bit darker! Which was why the cover of his novella caught my eye – it looks like it would be fun and a little bit dark!

This novella is part of a larger series although I haven’t read any of that series. There was backstory provided here but mainly enough to titillate you into reading the rest of the series rather than being necessary for enjoying this.

Cole is a little bit twisted by his upbringing and appears to be obsessed with Avery. He is very much the darker half of the duo, with some daddy issues thrown in for good measure. He steals from his father in order to afford Avery in an ‘auction’, which as part of the prize includes a chase through a Halloween maze and a private dance.

Avery comes across as a little naive maybe? But also really likes the idea of being chased as something a bit different from the ordinary.

Obviously with a novella, things happen very quickly, but time is given to the chase in the maze that was fun to read. I got a little distracted with the descriptions of the decorations – I guess it seemed a bit superfluous to things and I would have preferred there to be more of the interactions in the maze. It sounded like it was going to be seriously hot and slightly terrifying at the same time.

The dancing/sex scene was generally good although no real negotiation between them for what was happening. Avery seemed into the whole anonymous idea of things but I would say it was slightly problematic that Cole knew who Avery was but not the other way around. However, this was clearly listed in the warnings so that if it’s something that doesn’t appeal, there was definitely time to close the book!

Overall, I enjoyed reading it – it was fun, sexy and entertaining and I think I would be quite interested in reading a full novel about how Cole gets out of the situation he’s placed himself in.

I received an ARC from BookSirens.

[Kaitlyn Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, this one caught me completely off guard—in the best way. What starts as a steamy Halloween night at a sex club quickly turns into a deliciously tense game of cat and mouse. Avery, a dancer at the club, is being auctioned off for the night, and Cole—his best friend’s step-son, of all people—is determined to win. Fully disguised with skull face paint and that perfect balance of charm and dominance, Cole makes sure Avery has no idea who’s behind the mask. What follows is a chase through a haunted maze that’s equal parts heat, tension, and temptation.

And that ending? My jaw dropped. I did not realize this was setting up for a full-length novel, but now I’m fully invested and desperate for more. Cole’s inner thoughts give just the right hint of sweetness under all that spice—enough to make me think there’s way more to him than the confident exterior. Meanwhile, Avery’s walls (and resistance) make their dynamic even more fun to watch play out.

It’s short, it’s hot, and it leaves you wanting so much more—literally.

What to expect:
🔥 Sex club setting
🎭 Hidden identity
💀 Halloween chase
❤️‍🔥 Forbidden attraction
💋 Teasing tension (no romance yet… but it’s coming)

Rating: 4.5/5 – Dark, spicy, and ridiculously fun. I cannot wait for the full novel—because this story? It’s only just getting started.

[ATISHYA ANAND · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so thrilled to get an ARC of this book, especially since it’s not available in India yet! I mean, Hazel always delivers, but this novella? 🔥 It's a short, spicy prequel that packs in all the heat and tension you’d expect. I love her writing so much, and this one had all the angst, enemies-to-lovers vibes, and masked mystery to make it an absolute page-turner.

This is a quick and steamy MM novella with hidden identities, a little bit of chasing, and a “first time with a guy” moment that’s both tender and intense. And can we talk about the dual POV? Getting inside Cole’s head is a game-changer. And seeing him fall hard for Avery? Perfection. Watching Cole and Avery together gives all the drama and desire you want in a masked-man read, especially during spooky season.

I devoured this in one sitting. I just know Cole and Avery are going to be as messy and obsessively drawn to each other as their predecessors. This family’s toxic, chaotic energy is off the charts, and honestly, I’m here for every second of it!

[⚡️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something so satisfying about being in a book slump then reading pure smut that brings you right out.

This was everything that I needed, mm, light primal play and kinky activities in a maze. (At this point I’m convinced that running through a maze at a s*x club whilst a masked man/ man with face paint on is the only way to find ‘the one’)

I’m so excited for Cole and Avery’s book, this little snippet has got me on the edge of my seat! Cole, the mysterious and unhinged one is the one who’s obsessed and plotting to make Avery his… delicious!

I received this book as an arc but all opinions are my own.

[Ashley Houghton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be part of the arc team for the book and I absolutely loved this novelette.

I read this in one sitting I couldn’t put it down what a f*cking epic way to introduce these characters! In the short but very hot and spicy story we meet Cole and Avery who have an unusual relationship Avery hates Cole but Cole is obsessed with him and the events which happen on Halloween auction will change everything. If people find out! I cannot what for Cole and Avery’s novel it’s going to be a dark and bumpy ride but I’m really hoping they end up together!

I highly recommend this book!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[J.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love when primal play is mixed with the hidden identity trope. It definitely heightened Avery's fear and lust, and I can't say I blame him.

Avery has no idea that the man who chased and claimed him is someone he hates. I haven't read his best friend's story, so I'm not sure, but his feelings for Cole seem complicated. It looks like he dislikes him because of how uneasy Cole makes him feel. He's too intense in a way that makes Avery want to avoid him. Even if it was only implied, it's still obvious that he's reluctantly attracted to Cole. Though, he clearly despises it.

I'm looking forward to their full story.

[Vivien Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an MM novella was a great read for Halloween season. It takes place in a maze where a primal chase happens. Cole, whom Avery dislikes very much, is basically obsessed with Avery so he wants nothing to do with Cole in real life. Avery even got Cole banned from the smex club that he works at. Cole decides he must have Avery no matter what and he can't wait any longer. He puts on makeup to make his face look like a skeleton to disguise himself then wins time with Avery after bidding on him. Things het hot and s3xy real quick after the chase starts. Highly recommend this book! It does end on a sorta cliffhanger.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a lot of stories where people are chased through mazes, but never a M/M version and i have to say, i loved it. You get the tension building and the fear of the character being chased, whilst the hunter is calm and collected.

I definitely want to read more of Cole and Avery's story, because i need to know if they will admit their feelings and if Cole can actually admit to being the guy with the skull face. I liked how the relationship and enemies to lovers (hopefully) comes into play, but with a best friend who might medel too much i'm curious as to how they will get past that

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short, spicy novella setting up a longer novel for Cole and Avery in the Twisted Bonds series, and can be read as a standalone book. Cole is obsessed with Avery and Avery hates Cole. At the kink club where Avery works, he is auctioned off for a chase through a Halloween themed maze, then a special dance for the lucky buyer. Little does he know who the mystery man is, but the encounter blows his mind. Avery and Cole's full story will be coming. Lots of hot, spicy details on the encounter in this short read, teasing for what is yet to come.

I received an ARC from Book Sirens and this is my voluntary review.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5⭐️

”The need to make him mine overtook everything else.”

The perfect read for the spooky season if you’re wanting something short, spicy, and addictive!!

I loved being in Cole’s head! He’s intrigued me since he was introduced in his dad’s book and I’m so glad to finally be getting more of him.

I always say it, but S.B. Hazel’s writing always leaves me wanting more, I’ll read anything she writes!!

I’m so ready for more of Cole & Avery after getting a taste of them in this prequel!!

Tropes:
•MM
•novella
•primal
•dub con
•obsessive MMC
•hidden identity

[Max C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ravager by S.B. Hazel is fast paced and hotter than hell. Two enemies, a maze, and a forceful fuck. I loved the premise of this story. It has elements of non consent but didn't feel like it actually was... I loved it. I will definitely reread this one and I think that you should too. It's short and can be read very quickly it has a great story line and I am looking forward to reading more about them in their upcoming novel.

I received an advanced readers copy of this book for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Isabella. R · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Lust Drunk Fool Stars ⭐

Sex Club + Supposed Strangers + Auction + Halloween Maze = A Kinky Hot Read.

Him, in all his brightness, threw my gray life into color.
And I didn’t understand why. I detested him for it. Then loved him. Craved him.

Set in the Twisted Bonds World, a dark and depraved Cole has been lusting over Avery for years, even though Avery clearly despises him. Now behind his Halloween disguise, Cole can finally have this gorgeous Twink even if it's for one single moment. Ravager is a prequel to Cole and Avery's story told in a very perverted manner. So good for very little pages!

[Caitlin U. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into this not reading the other 2 books in the series prior and after finishing, I IMMEDIATELY added the other 2 to my TBR because WHAT IS IN THIS BOOK?! Is it drugs?! Because I am already addicted to Cole!

I already KNOW in his full length book he is going to be that possessive stalker type we all know and love when it comes to dark romances and I cannot wait to read it! I really was wanting Avery to find out it was Cole in this and see his reaction but I will patiently wait for the full length book!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

**eBook, KU**
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“I want to destroy you and put you back together again.”

* Dark Romance
* MM Smut
* Hidden Identity
* First Time MM Experience
* Masked Man
* Enemies To Lovers
* Anal
* Chasing
* Dual POV

Cole and Avery’s short little spicy novella.

This book follows one of the twins, from Puppeteer. Cole’s obsession is Avery. Yes, it’s Avery first time and little Angel is a good boy and doesn’t disappoint.

Perfect for a Halloween time read and pretending it was you being chased in a corn maze my a masked man.

[Kyara Gevers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hot hot hot hot hot euhm wait how could i describe this book Yeah HOT! Cole is the right kind of obsessed, loved it. And Avery is just in awe of this man who he knows nothing about but makes him feel all the right things all at once. This is our intro, a prequel if you will to their full length book. And what a great start. I'm always down for a little primal play. The halloween setting was incredible, the chase was delicous and the prize was HOT.

[Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Free Fall had me begging for a Cole and Avery book because Cole, the ass hole that he is, is completely obsessed with Avery. And poor innocent Avery doesn't know what's going for him.

This book is a masked man, hidden identity MM novella between Cole and Avery. I cannot wait for their full novel to come out because it is going to be toxic AF even though we have seen Cole change; I just know that you can't take away his toxicity completely.

[Kim B · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Well, I got what I asked for… At the end of Free Fall, I begged and pleaded for Cole’s story. With Ravager, SB gave me an appetizer 😳 … And I want the whole meal gosh darn it! 😬Although this appetizer was a total chef’s kiss 😘 — I mean are Cole and Avery hot or what? 🥵Please tell me the full story is coming and soon🙏🏻

[Danielle Barraza · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a novella prequel for Cole and Avery’s full length book that’s to come! I loved it just as much as I did puppeteer!! I am so excited to get back into the ‘Twisted Bonds’ setting and for a full length of what the aftermath of Ravager will be like for these characters!! This really lets you get insight to how they both feel about one another. Super spicy with a Halloween setting it’s a great novella to read for spooky time!!!