I’m stubborn, feral, and reckless. So, as you can imagine, I couldn't resist the invitation to join an elite mercenary group, no matter their history. I’ve sold myself to a similar agency once before; this wouldn’t be any different—two sides to the same messed up coin. Derek, on the other hand, is relentless. Following me like a shadow that I can't seem to escape. Everywhere I turn, he's right there waiting for me. I was naive to assume that I could resist a temptation as intoxicating as him.
DEREK AVERY
The CIA has Dean and I chasing down a lead for Anathema. An unhinged group of mercenaries-for-hire who are hell-bent on controlling and destroying the world. Coming up empty-handed, we have to enlist the help of a third party to complete our assignment, and I want nothing to do with him; I’d much rather bury him six feet under instead. Alexis has made it abundantly clear that she hates me, and I thrive on every second of it. She thinks she can resist me and my advances, but she'll be sorely mistaken. She’s a challenge waiting to be won, and I’ll do whatever it takes to make her mine.
ANATHEMA
Corruption is power, and we have enough to paint this city red. While heroes bask in the glory of their triumphs, we bathe in the blood of our victims. Trained to destroy everything you love, our souls bleed as black as the night. The promise of revenge fuels my objective. Let me show you how deep the rabbit hole truly goes.
Ataraxia by Jacklyn Parker is a Dark Romance. There are scenes of a violent and sexual nature in this story. Therefore, it is intended for readers of 18+ years. Please take note of the trigger warnings.
If you're looking for memorable, high‑heat romance with darker themes, secret societies, and morally complex characters—and you don’t mind some violent or suspenseful elements—Jacklyn Parker delivers it in spades. Her pacing is fast, the spice is hot, and the characters are beautifully flawed.
The ideas that come from Jacklyn’s brain are mind blowing and I AM OBSESSED. Anathema had it all: -Feminine rage? Check. -A HOTT LEADING MAN THAT MADE ME SWOON AND CROSS MY LEGS TO TIGHTEN MY THIGHS TOGETHER?! Check, check, CHECK. I see you, Derek. 👀🥵 -Secret society that leans morally black? Check!
I love how the Mill City Series follows four CIA agents and the three badass women who are more like sisters than best friends that they fall hopelessly in love with. 🥹
Derek and Alexis are a strong couple—and I love how he doesn’t rush her into love even though he knows she’s his from the moment he sees her! They learn to trust each other and themselves throughout this story and I love how they have to face their own insecurities to find their happily ever after!
This is my second book by Jacklyn and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon!
This book is the 2nd book in The Mills City series. In this book you'll get: enemies to lovers, age gap, bad ass FMC, touch her and die MMC, and spicy and swoon worthy scenes!
Derek is in the CIA. He is chasing down a lead for a group while and has also been chasing Alexis who wants nothing to do with him.
Alexis was just sent out an invitation to a mercenary group. Alexis is reckless, stubborn, and born to be a mercenary! She is a bada$s and I love the banter between her and Derek!
Some of the things that Derek tells Alexis has me swooning. I would love more than anything for Derek to speak filthy to me!
The character development is amazing, the drama and who done it is amazing, and I loved the all the action!
This is a 5 star ⭐ read and Jacklyn is worthy of all the praise for this book!
In the first book, Tyler helped get herself, Alexis, and Morgan out from underneath the control of their previous employer.
Now Alexis is trying to figure out where to go moving forward and has found herself receiving an invite from a mercenary group called Anathema. She just got out from under a very controlling boss but is enticed by this corporation's reputation and decides to start the induction process.
Derek still works for the FBI. He has found himself obsessed with what Alexis is doing ever since their first interaction in the first book. He has been keeping tabs on her ever since. He's now found himself on the task of finding out who is in charge of Anathema and bringing them to justice.
Jacqueline does a wonderful job of writing this story in a way that pulled me into the emotions that Alexis was going through while she was trying to find her direction as well as Derek 's need to be a part of her life without him. Fully understanding why. They both don't understand love going into this and it is very fun to see them figure it out.
Please be aware that this book has violence, sexual content, blood and gore, attempted SA, death, drugging, stalking, and grooming. Keep this in mind before adding this book to your TBR
Jacklyn, my dear. I’m so obsessed with your writing and cannot get enough of it! Thank you for allowing me to continue being a part of your ARC team! 🖤
I enjoyed reading about Alexis and Derek. I was hooked with how their chemistry hit hard and developed stronger throughout the book. The plot was on fire and the spice was just the right temperature! Not to mention getting a glimpse from the previous characters from book one.
If you haven't added this to your TBR list get to it! You won't be disappointed!
Book 2 gives us the story of Alexis & Derek — these two had way more chemistry than I could ever handle! Every time they are together —- ugh no words!
But besides the normal spice level that Jacklyn puts in her books, the plot was so good. It answers questions you had from book 1 and leaves you with new questions waiting for book 3! The plot twist as always was perfect!
Also, Don’t get me wrong I love Chy & AJ but there’s something about Alexis & Derek that makes me love them more!! and unlike many book series where it can be read as a stand alone or together, I love that characters form the other book show up & have actual chapters! It’s like watching a good tv series and your favorite characters come back for a special episode.
5⭐️ ARC REVIEW: Jacklyn Parker does it again!!! I swear this woman is the queen of dark romance if anyones going to write a dark romance with beautiful spice, loads of plot and plot twists its her!!! Everything about this book was incredible i loved hearing about alexis and dereks story and how there relationship developed throughout the book. The character development was like no other and the amount of spice added was absolutely perfect. The plot twist that happens in this was completely unexpected and the way it all played out and developed gets you hooked instantly. I love how we still got to see a POV from chy and AJ and mads from book 1 and even eli at the end, seeing there POV on the situation made the book that much better and made the story feel like it had so much depth. I cannot wait for book 3!!!
I was given an eARC in exchange for an honest review. This universe Jacklyn has created is one of my all time favorites, and that's just after book two. Alexis and Derek were amazing MCs and Derek is the definition of “man written by a woman” (bc he is...) I cannot wait for book three. The single chapter sneak peek HOOKED me. LFG 🔥
~Arc Review - Thank you to Jacklyn Parker for the opportunity!~
⚠️ CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS ⚠️ Be warned this is a dark romance and triggers are riddled within this book if you venture forward, hence please keep this in mind. You have been warned and informed..
Tropes; 🖤💋Multi POVs 🖤💋Assassin x CIA Agent 🖤💋Enemies to Lovers 🖤💋Strong FMC 🖤💋Morally Grey MMC 🖤💋Possessive MMC 🖤💋"Touch Her & Die" 🖤💋Forbidden Love 🖤💋Cult/Secret Societies 🖤💋Dark Romance 🖤💋HEA
Let me just start off by telling you that chapter one starts off rather spicy, oh my Lordt! Derek, my mans! He is so hawt and cocky that it left me wanting more and I was hooked already. This is the second installment of the Mills Series and I was in love with it from the get-go! And Derek, a CIA Agent is chasing down a mercenary group and falls head over heels for Alexis - she wants nothing to do with him and fights him. But he likes a fighter and it only encourages him, he wants her even more. Obsessed, jealous and possessed, he stalks her, determined to make her his...
What I love about Alexis was that she's such a strong FMC and doesn't take BS from him. The banter is so fun and entertaining between herself and Derek, who honestly was a sucker for it really. They're perfect for each other and balance each other out in ways that make me cheer for them every time they interact. The way she slowly begins to cave in and trusts him is heart-warming, the way they learn to trust through their issues. The character development is so good!
The spice is on another level - especially with Derek's dirty talk? Hello?! I had to take a breather to use my mini fan for a few seconds before resuming reading my kindle again and/or giving my reactions to the imaginary camera in my room to his deliciously scandalous responses! Oh. My. God. Now this is a steamy book! I enjoyed following their relationship from enemies to lovers, to something much deeper and substantial/beautiful.
Madison, Marcus and Dean were fun side characters and I can't wait to know more about them in future books! Asphyxia is going to be so scrumptious - I'm at the edge of my seat already with my popcorn, ready! The plotline was done so well that everything dotted up in the end and gave me everything I needed. It was fast-paced, action-packed, you got humour/banter and heat, twists and turns that made me gasp, a roller-coaster of emotions that tugged at my heart, swoon-worthy MMC and a bad-B FMC and more. If you like everything of the above then you will want this on your TBR list. You won't regret it!
🖤🥀Book Received: eARC/Kindle. 🖤🥀Pages: 359. 🖤🥀Genre: Fiction, dark romance, contemporary, crime. 🖤🥀Content Warnings: Available at the BACK of the book. 🖤🥀Chapters: 33, including 2 epilogues (excluding the 1st chapter Asphyxia, the next book, and a deleted chapter of Anathema.) Would I recommend? Yes, absolutely! 🖤🥀Overall Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes; 🖤💋 Multi POVs 🖤💋 Assassin x CIA Agent 🖤💋 Enemies to Lovers 🖤💋 Strong FMC 🖤💋 Morally Grey MMC 🖤💋 Possessive MMC 🖤💋 "Touch Her & Die" 🖤💋 Forbidden Love 🖤💋 Cult/Secret Societies 🖤💋 Dark Romance 🖤💋 HEA
This book is the 2nd book in The Mills City series. In this book you'll get: enemies to lovers, age gap, bad ass FMC, touch her and die MMC, and spicy and swoon worthy scenes!
I love how the Mill City Series follows four CIA agents and the three badass women who are more like sisters than best friends that they fall hopelessly in love with.
Derek and Alexis are a strong couple—and I love how he doesn’t rush her into love even though he knows she’s his from the moment he sees her! They learn to trust each other and themselves throughout this story and I love how they have to face their own insecurities to find their happily ever after!
The character development is amazing, the drama and who done it is amazing, and I loved the all the action!
I enjoyed reading about Alexis and Derek. I was hooked with how their chemistry hit hard and developed stronger throughout the book. The plot was on fire and the spice was just the right temperature! Not to mention getting a glimpse from the previous characters from book one.
The plot pacing is on point, full of twists and turns that keep you on edge, and the chemistry between these two is intense. It’s a fast-paced journey filled with moments that make you gasp, blush, and turn the page in anticipation. Derek’s obsessive, possessive nature might be intense for some, but if that’s your jam, you’re in for a treat. This book balances suspense, romance, and character development perfectly, ensuring you stay hooked from start to finish.
If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy romance with a fierce heroine and a MMC who would do anything to protect her, Anathema is a must-read! The spice is on point, and the plot delivers.
“ᴛᴇʟʟ ᴍᴇ ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴅᴏᴇꜱɴ’ᴛ ꜰᴇᴇʟ ʟɪᴋᴇ ʜᴏᴍᴇ. ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ᴍᴇ ʙᴇʟɪᴇᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴍᴇ ᴛᴏ ꜱɪɴᴋ ᴍʏꜱᴇʟꜰ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴛʜɪɢʜꜱ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴄʜᴀɴᴄᴇ ɪ ɢᴇᴛ.” - Review: What a perfect second book into the mills series. Derek and Alexis have my heart for real, they understood each other in a way I personally adored. Derek and his filthy mouth had me shook for a bit not going to lie, and of course the fierce bad-@$$ Alexis and her smart mouth got me through this whole book. I loved everything about it personally, the characters and the back stories and how everything just made sense in every way when it came to Anathema. Can’t wait for Marcus, Dean and Madison’s story 🤫. I just know that’s going to be a wild ride for Asphyxia! Of course please read trigger warnings since this is a dark contemporary romance, your mental health matters most 🫶🏼
“Anathema” the newest addition to the Mill City series brings us Alexis and Derek’s story, and it’s everything you didn’t know you needed. I was lucky enough to beta read this book, and let me just say—it’s a wild, unforgettable ride! This book has all the ingredients of a gripping romance: enemies to lovers, age gap, slow(ish) burn, and one spicy MMC who knows exactly what to say to turn up the heat.
Derek is an absolute scene-stealer with his dirty talk, and his “touch her and die” energy is magnetic. Watching him fall first for the fiercely independent Alexis, who is truly a bada** FMC, added so much tension and depth to their relationship. Alexis holds her own at every turn, bringing fierce strength and resilience that makes you root for her every step of the way.
The plot pacing is on point, full of twists and turns that keep you on edge, and the chemistry between these two is intense. It’s a fast-paced journey filled with moments that make you gasp, blush, and turn the page in anticipation. Derek’s obsessive, possessive nature might be intense for some, but if that’s your jam, you’re in for a treat. This book balances suspense, romance, and character development perfectly, ensuring you stay hooked from start to finish.
If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy romance with a fierce heroine and a MMC who would do anything to protect her, Anathema is a must-read! The spice is on point, and the plot delivers. I am counting down to the next book in the series!
I was immediately hooked by this story! Alexis Lochlan is everything I love in a fierce female lead—stubborn, unpredictable, and completely wild. Watching her navigate the world of elite mercenaries while going toe-to-toe with Derek was electrifying. Their chemistry was intense, and the way they clashed yet couldn’t stay away from each other kept me flipping the pages.
Derek, on the other hand, is equal parts maddening and magnetic. His relentless pursuit of Alexis added a layer of tension that made their dynamic so addictive. The push-and-pull between them was full of passion and sparks, making every interaction a battle of wills.
The action scenes were gripping, and the glimpse into Anathema’s dark, destructive world added a thrilling edge to the story. I loved the moral complexity of the characters—there’s no black-and-white, just shades of grey that keep you questioning their choices.
While I loved the tension and chaos, there were moments where the pacing felt a bit rushed, especially during key confrontations. But overall, this was an exhilarating read with a mix of romance, action, and danger that left me wanting more.
If you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers and high-stakes drama, you’ll love this one!
Okay so this book. I had goosebumps a few pages in!
Alexis and Derek are the stars of this book. You meet them briefly as side characters in Ataraxia. The heat between these two is scorching. I loved every minute and Derek has been immediately added to my list of book boyfriends.
Alexis- She's currently dealing with the aftermath of everything that happened. Derek is like a shadow she can't get rid of and she's not sure she even wants too. When Alexis gets an offer from a secret society called Anathema, she's intrigued. I mean, Alexis has already been a mercenary for hire, so is this really that different? She's about to find out! Things keep heating up with Derek and she can't deny their chemistry.
Derek- He met his match in Alexis. He's always liked a challenge, so this spitfire is definitely worth the chase. Derek is tasked by the CIA to find out everything he can about a secret society called Anathema. Little does Derek know that the answers to his questions are closer than they seem Derek is determined to balance work and fun, but Alexis might end up being more than that.
Who exactly is Anathema? Will secrets and lies come between Alexis and Derek?
Huge thank you for the opportunity to read this early in advance!
First off let me start off by saying I love these characters! This Dark Enemies to Lovers Romance was action and adventure mixed with some steamy hot Derek dirty talk where he WILL leave you drooling and coming back for more. 🤤
Through an almost tragic situation, Alexis finds herself 2 fierce sisters in the long run. But as time passes and events that take place in Ataraxia, Alexis is struggling to keep control on her purpose which is bigger than herself. In Anathema she jumps off the deep end straight into a black pit with no way out and sealed in darkness.
I absolutely submerged myself with this read, and I am so curious on how Madison's story will play out and connect in the next book. I'm even more curious about Dean and, of course, Marcus with how that situation may have left me open-mouthed and needing more. I can't wait for Asphyxia to come to life!
When you think you know all the answers, and how it will play out just know that chapter 27 will indeed prove you wrong. 😳
The second installment of the Mill City Series follows Alexis Lochlan, a defiant and impulsive protagonist who joins an elite mercenary group, only to find herself entangled with Derek Avery, a relentless CIA operative. Their volatile relationship is marked by power struggles and undeniable chemistry, set against a backdrop of espionage and betrayal. The story delves into themes of control, vengeance, and the blurred lines between love and hate. The chemistry between Alexis and Derek is a central focus, with their clashing personalities creating a dynamic and tension-filled relationship. Their interactions are characterized by a constant push and pull, making for a compelling exploration of dominance and resistance. The magnetic pull between Alexis and Derek is seen throughout the book, with Derek falling first and Alexis finally caving in, she finds herself in a dark situation but with the help of our favorites from Ataraxia, Atlas and Chyler find their way back and help Alexis and the team take down the enemy.
There is literally nothing like an obsessive, jealous, possessive MMC who has absolutely no shame and FLAUNTS it. Derek does not hide his obsession with Alexis and boy does he stalk her. He is a literal wet dream.
Alexis is a vicious FMC who lets everyone including Derek taste her venom and it’s enticing. The rage she holds and channels into her actions is everything. Independent to the max, and most definitely unapologetic.
This second book is just as fast paced as the first in plot, relationship evolvement, and of course intense spice. One does not overshadow the other; you won’t feel as there is too much plot and not enough spice and vice versa. Derek and Alexis fight to make their relationship work throughout the book; with Derek fighting for Alexis and Alexis fighting against Derek till she caves. They work through their issues, slowly learning to trust each other while not being able to keep their hands off each other.
“I’m the kind of man who takes what they want and isn’t afraid of the chase, what it takes to make them—her—mine.” Absolute perfection! Jacklyn Parker has done it again, this second installation of the mill city series is to die for! The blossoming relationship between Derek and Alexis is everything a fan could dream for, pretty boy and his pretty viper are perfect for each other in every sense. The smut is incredible but the emotional connection and obsession with each other is just as intoxicating and it can be strongly felt through the words and emotions Jacklyn has emanating from these pages! If you loved Ataraxia, Anathema is a must read, and if you haven’t read the first book but like bad ass fmcs and protective mmcs this series is perfect for you. I’m so grateful to have received to opportunity to arc read this amazing novel and cannot wait to see what other amazing stories Jacklyn creates!
I do not know how this girl comes up with the stuff she does….but if you haven’t read anything by Jacklyn Parker I am sorry and I hope that changes soon! This is the second book I’ve read by her and I can tell you she’s got me for life! Every time she writes a book boyfriend I am obsessed and then she goes and writes another that I am certain I am even MORE obsessed with! I LOVED Derek and Alexis! There story was everything!
The spice in this book was something🥵
Still rocking with the badass FMC.
The possessive but loving man with a mouth that will make you blush.
The secret society.
Reunion of friends.
Ugh. This book was just incredible.
Highly recommended by me and I cannot WAIT for her future books!!
Jacklyn Parker’s Anathema is a riveting blend of dark fantasy, mystery, and romance that delves into themes of identity, morality, and the lengths one will go to protect what they love. It’s a tale that grips you from the first page and doesn’t let go until its haunting conclusion. Anathema is a darkly enchanting read that combines gripping storytelling with profound emotional depth. Jacklyn Parker’s skillful weaving of fantasy and moral complexity makes this a standout in its genre. While some aspects might not appeal to everyone, fans of dark fantasy and character-driven narratives will find much to love here. Rating: 4.5/5 Highly recommended for readers who enjoy dark, thought-provoking tales with a touch of romance and mystery.
"Be unapologetically feral. Break this spine and the fourth wall, spreading these delicious pages to welcome Derek into your lap. He'll take good care of you for the rest of this read."
There are 4 CIA agents and the 3 badass women that are more like sisters than best friends as they fall hopeless inlove with them
Derek and Alexis are a strong couple as I adore how Derek don't rush her into love even though he knows she is his from the moment that he saw her ! Eventually they learn to trust each other and themselves throughout the story and I adore how they faced their own insecurities to be able to find their happily ever after
4.5/5 The next book in the Mill City series is coming! And you are not ready for Alexis and Derek. I had the pleasure of beta reading this and what a ride this was. The spice was spicing and the plot had great pacing with twists and turns. My favourite part had to be Derek’s dirty mouth and Alexis was such a badass. I had such a great time reading this!
This has: 🧡 enemies to lovers 🧡 slow(ish) burn 🧡 age gap 🧡 touch her and ☠️ 🧡 he falls first 🧡 fast paced 🧡 plot twists 🧡 fierce FMC 🧡 obsessive/possessive MMC
I was kind of confused with this one. I read Ataraxia to make sure I knew who each and every character and fell in love with them. But I think the story was too fast paced. It did not totally setup Anathema in a way that it made it the villain in the story.
I am also questioning how the badass Alexis suddenly fell in love with Derek with only one bed scene?! How?! Like damn. Love at first sight? The spicy scenes were good but there was no “connection” between both characters. I feel like Derek was only obsessed with Alexis but no love.
Anathema is the second book in The Mill City Series and follows Alexis and Derek. Derek is a CIA Agent who is obsessed with Alexis. He is also tasked with finding information about the secret society of Anathema. Alexis is stubborn and independent and also a mercenary for hire. She finds herself with an invite from Anathema. She tries fighting off Derek, but their chemistry is undeniable! I absolutely loved the banter between the two of them! Anathema is just as fast paced, plot twisting, and spicy as Ataraxia! Can't wait for Asphyxia!!
Devoured this book in 24 hours. The MMC and FMC’s chemistry is unmatched. I loved reading their banter throughout the book. I love how strong the FMC is, she definitely has a mind of her own and def shows it lol I think her having a kind of her own was definitely something the MMC needed and it made them an incredibly strong couple. I loved how they helped heal each other and faced their insecurities together. There are def heavy topics in the book so please please please check your trigger warnings ahead of time.
Gotta love a fighter!! Alexis, “pretty viper” (obsessed with this pet name), has walls up so high and a F all attitude, no one should get it. Little does she know how excited that makes Derek!! What a heated love-hate relationship turns into when she’s in trouble - forget the men for a second, where are her sisters?! Well this book surely wrapped them all up in several bows and we learn so much more about their friendship!! I’m excited to learn more about Madison in the next one!!
This was a beta read for me. The second installment in the Mill City series following Alexis -our fierce assassin for hire FMC and Derek -our very possessive CIA agent. If you’re looking for a fast paced, slow burn enemies to lovers dark romance then look no further! Derek and Alexis are a force to be reckoned with. The banter, the spice, I ATE this up.
Absolutely loved this one, I especially loved that we still had characters from the last one included in this series. The whole dynamic between Alexis and Derek was amazing and the trauma, betrayals, the mfc being able to handle herself it was all high ranking for me and the spice was spicing and was so good and the plot kept thickening making me want more and more
I devoured Anathema in one sitting. I couldn't put it down.
Derek and Alexis brought amazing banter and tons of spice with an unforgettable story.
I loved that even though this was Derek and Alexis' story, we still saw the other characters of Ataraxia. With that being said, what happened that brought them back? Wow. I love it when a book keeps me on the edge of my seat and guessing to get smacked in the face with a good plot twist.
I'm patiently waiting for Asphyxia, I'm obsessed with this series like Derek is obsessed with Alexis.
Dark stalker/k*dnapper romance. Alexis is a badass tech geek/unaliver who gets to fall in love with an OBSESSED CIA agent who just cannot get enough of her. I didn’t not expect the twists in this book. It had me completely shocked with underground secret meetings and take downs. Cannot wait for Madison and Dean and Marcus ✨
This book gives off “Your crazy matches my crazy vibes.” Absolutely love Derek who is instantly like she’s mine and will do anything literally anything to make it happen. Alexis was giving strong FMC like “I don’t need no man, but ya know a girls got needs ;)” loved how fast paced and suspenseful this book was the whole way through. Can’t wait for book 3!