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Taken by the Night: A Dark Romance Duet
A contemporary dark romance thriller / erotic horror duet by Jasmine P. Dane, with contributions from Amazon best selling K.J. Devoir. If you have a thing for villains and like your romance extra dark & spicy then this series is for you!
*Check Author's Note in beginning of book for a detailed list of trigger warnings.
Book One
Bethany
I was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and that's when I saw him in the act. Worse, he saw me, too.
His dark gaze burned into me from behind his white skull mask.
He's the reason I've been afraid to sleep at night. You could say I became obsessed with the killer. I couldn't get the image of him slashing that guy from my head. Sure, that guy was one of the town a-holes, but to see him get sliced up like that? So. Much. Blood.
When I close my eyes, I see the mask.
When I open my eyes, I see the mask—in the shadows, watching. Towering, broad-shouldered, and dressed in black. He is there and gone in an instant. Or is it just my imagination? There are theories about who he could be, but the worst theory is mine. It's a dark secret, and I haven’t told a soul.
Last year, I attended a costume party and did something I’d never done before. I had a one-night stand. His one condition when he stole me away behind a closed door...was that he kept on the white skull mask.
Skull
Welcome to my deadly game, sweet Bethany.
You will be a good girl, and play along.
I know you will.
Book Two They call him Pirate. He is feared and loathed, and works in the dark of night for the Hell Fire Organization. Everything changes when he is hired to kill a target that becomes the object of his obsession.
Pirate is all muscle and predatory purpose as he slowly stalks my way, and my heart viciously thuds in my ears at his raw power. He is without a doubt the scariest man I've ever met. He makes me feel like my life is ending and beginning at the same time, like this is one of those traumatic, pivotal moments that will change me forever. There will be the time before I met Pirate, and the time after.
He said he's been watching me--for how long? How much does he know?
I can feel my ex boyfriend Jason's eyes on me as Pirate lifts my hands above my head, and cuffs my wrists.
"Ouch," I complain, as they snap shut.
"Too tight?" he smirks as if he's enjoying my discomfort.
I want to say, yes, they are too tight, but I don't. Instead, I only stare into his cold grey eyes framed by dark brows. I am totally at his mercy.
*Check Author's Note in beginning of book for a detailed list of trigger warnings.
Book One
Bethany
I was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and that's when I saw him in the act. Worse, he saw me, too.
His dark gaze burned into me from behind his white skull mask.
He's the reason I've been afraid to sleep at night. You could say I became obsessed with the killer. I couldn't get the image of him slashing that guy from my head. Sure, that guy was one of the town a-holes, but to see him get sliced up like that? So. Much. Blood.
When I close my eyes, I see the mask.
When I open my eyes, I see the mask—in the shadows, watching. Towering, broad-shouldered, and dressed in black. He is there and gone in an instant. Or is it just my imagination? There are theories about who he could be, but the worst theory is mine. It's a dark secret, and I haven’t told a soul.
Last year, I attended a costume party and did something I’d never done before. I had a one-night stand. His one condition when he stole me away behind a closed door...was that he kept on the white skull mask.
Skull
Welcome to my deadly game, sweet Bethany.
You will be a good girl, and play along.
I know you will.
Book Two They call him Pirate. He is feared and loathed, and works in the dark of night for the Hell Fire Organization. Everything changes when he is hired to kill a target that becomes the object of his obsession.
Pirate is all muscle and predatory purpose as he slowly stalks my way, and my heart viciously thuds in my ears at his raw power. He is without a doubt the scariest man I've ever met. He makes me feel like my life is ending and beginning at the same time, like this is one of those traumatic, pivotal moments that will change me forever. There will be the time before I met Pirate, and the time after.
He said he's been watching me--for how long? How much does he know?
I can feel my ex boyfriend Jason's eyes on me as Pirate lifts my hands above my head, and cuffs my wrists.
"Ouch," I complain, as they snap shut.
"Too tight?" he smirks as if he's enjoying my discomfort.
I want to say, yes, they are too tight, but I don't. Instead, I only stare into his cold grey eyes framed by dark brows. I am totally at his mercy.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2024
31 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 31, 2025
Got this for review on booksirens.
This includes two novellas Pretty when you scream and His only desire. They do not connect in anyway.
Overall it's 3.5 stars but rounded it up to 4. Pretty when you scream is a good spicy, dark romance. Masked Mmc, murder and chaos.
His only desire, was my favorite. It was a little messed up but in a fun sexy way and it was engaging. Liked this one the best but both was a fun dark read.
This includes two novellas Pretty when you scream and His only desire. They do not connect in anyway.
Overall it's 3.5 stars but rounded it up to 4. Pretty when you scream is a good spicy, dark romance. Masked Mmc, murder and chaos.
His only desire, was my favorite. It was a little messed up but in a fun sexy way and it was engaging. Liked this one the best but both was a fun dark read.
February 16, 2025
*** Update 29/01/2025 ***
Changing my rating to 4 ⭐️’s— I’m still thinking about this book! I was too harsh in my first assessment, because it’s been days and I’m still severely piddled off that I don’t know how this ends!
Uh — this feels like it might get a place on the ‘physical copy’ shelf once finished.
Well— this one sucked me right in!
Pretty when you scream had me hook, line and sinker!… then it freaking ended!
Umm— SOS!
I went to try and buy look two. But nope! The listing on Amazon for this series had me so confused. Book one is Pretty when you scream. Book two is another book completely ‘His only desire’ and book 3 is ‘Taken by the night’ which includes books one and two.
Whhhhy?…
I need to know what happened! I wasn’t expecting to be consumed by ‘Pretty when you scream!’… it just happened, and now I’m likely going to go slightly insane wondering about all the twisty little pieces uncovered in the first book and how they’re going to weave together this web I’m stuck in.
I’ll be honest, I was expecting a ‘light little between book read’ with this one— Nope… not what I got. Instead I got ‘You think you know, but you don’t’… and it smacked me up the side of the head like an anvil. Yeah— an anvil! I’m in freaking pain here, not knowing how it ends. (I know it’s what I signed up for, but I didn’t expect to have it lure me in as it did).
The writing was engaging— a little rough in places but easily forgiven as the story unfolds and wraps itself around you.
This one is a solid three for me presently, though that could easily head North depending on the conclusion. Originally I thought this was a novella so forgave some of the missing details longer books usually divulge— I guess, though I loved this and was greatly intrigued, I was after a little more depth, especially regarding Bethany. There were also some parts in which I felt to be rather pivotal that were rushed or skimmed over… but, I guess it depends on how the rest of the story pans out
I’ll be waiting eagerly for book two and what I hope is the conclusion of this one. I know I could sign up to ream to continue, and I did try to start, but the whole thing confused me and the thought of having to sign up to another ‘thing’ to continue a book (though a good book so far) was all a bit much.
So here I wait.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review— which I have just supplied, using an opinion that is solely my own.
Changing my rating to 4 ⭐️’s— I’m still thinking about this book! I was too harsh in my first assessment, because it’s been days and I’m still severely piddled off that I don’t know how this ends!
Uh — this feels like it might get a place on the ‘physical copy’ shelf once finished.
Well— this one sucked me right in!
Pretty when you scream had me hook, line and sinker!… then it freaking ended!
Umm— SOS!
I went to try and buy look two. But nope! The listing on Amazon for this series had me so confused. Book one is Pretty when you scream. Book two is another book completely ‘His only desire’ and book 3 is ‘Taken by the night’ which includes books one and two.
Whhhhy?…
I need to know what happened! I wasn’t expecting to be consumed by ‘Pretty when you scream!’… it just happened, and now I’m likely going to go slightly insane wondering about all the twisty little pieces uncovered in the first book and how they’re going to weave together this web I’m stuck in.
I’ll be honest, I was expecting a ‘light little between book read’ with this one— Nope… not what I got. Instead I got ‘You think you know, but you don’t’… and it smacked me up the side of the head like an anvil. Yeah— an anvil! I’m in freaking pain here, not knowing how it ends. (I know it’s what I signed up for, but I didn’t expect to have it lure me in as it did).
The writing was engaging— a little rough in places but easily forgiven as the story unfolds and wraps itself around you.
This one is a solid three for me presently, though that could easily head North depending on the conclusion. Originally I thought this was a novella so forgave some of the missing details longer books usually divulge— I guess, though I loved this and was greatly intrigued, I was after a little more depth, especially regarding Bethany. There were also some parts in which I felt to be rather pivotal that were rushed or skimmed over… but, I guess it depends on how the rest of the story pans out
I’ll be waiting eagerly for book two and what I hope is the conclusion of this one. I know I could sign up to ream to continue, and I did try to start, but the whole thing confused me and the thought of having to sign up to another ‘thing’ to continue a book (though a good book so far) was all a bit much.
So here I wait.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review— which I have just supplied, using an opinion that is solely my own.
January 31, 2025
I have to get this off of my chest right away… these books are not part of the same universe and should not be labeled as a duet. It is extremely misleading and when you finish reading it you’re left very confused.
i recieved an advanced copy from booksirens and im leaving my honest thoughts:
The first book inside of this collective is “Pretty when you scream”. It’s a decent book.. i enjoyed the story of Skull and Bethany. There was a lot of mystery and suspense in the story.. i was constantly wondering who Skull was and where Bethany fits into it. You get little info drops through out the book and it leaves you craving more. Just when you get to the plot thickening and you FINALLY get to find out who Skull is… the story stops.. it’s just gone.. the reader is left with to be continued.. I was like okay no worries the second book is right here up next.. BOY WAS I WRONG..
The second book in this collective has absolutely nothing to do with the first one.. so i went on over to amazon to find the second one because I NEEDED to find out what happens next., only to discover… there is no what happens next 🙃 the second book is labeled as the same book in this collective and the end of “ pretty when you scream” is just non existent. So of course i’m a little irritated at that now.
I had to force myself to read the second “book”.. I really enjoyed the “second book” as well. i thought the story was great, the writing / story had me hooked and I was so involved with Sam and Pirate… then just like the first one… it ended with a cliff hanger.. Though i feel like this one was more of a cliff hanger than just stopping mid story like the first one.
Over all i enjoyed both novellas, I just wish that if the author was going to market these as a “duet” they actually were meant to be a duet. I also wish they were completed stories.. For me as a reader, having two random cliff hanger stories that aren’t even connected be in the same “book” is strange and I didn’t really like it. I’m giving three stars purely because i enjoyed the stories.. if it wasn’t for that, it would easily be a 1 or 2 star.
January 14, 2025
Two ultra-hot and steamy dark, erotic romances, with intense violence and sexual encounters (dubcon, bondage, power play, and more), exploring fear, control, obsession, psychological manipulation, and the blurred lines between captor and captive, predator and protector. Each tale explores the psychological and physical boundaries of human connection in dark and dangerous circumstances. Both question how far people will go when pushed to their limits, and what happens when desire and danger collide.
Pretty When You Scream:
Bethany attends a Halloween party at a Victorian mansion, where masked man known as Skull claims her in steamy dubcon encounter while people were being killed at the party, ominously telling her she is "pretty when she screams." This traumatic encounter marks the beginning of Skull's obsession with her. Haunted and terrified, Bethany tries to return to her normal life but finds herself increasingly ensnared in Skull's game. She discovers threatening notes and evidence that Skull has been in her home, further escalating her fear. Her research into the mansion reveals a disturbing history, hinting at connections between Skull and the wealthy family. Despite her attempts to avoid him, Skull continually intrudes into Bethany's life, culminating in a forced sexual encounter at her home. He leaves her marked and terrified but also confused by her own conflicting feelings for him. Skull's relentless pursuit leads Bethany to a masquerade party where she learns a shocking truth about Skull's identity, and that she's an integral part of his plan that includes forcing her to marry him. Bethany is coerced into a grotesque wedding ceremony in the depths of the family crypt, agreeing to the marriage to protect herself and her loved ones. Now bound to a man who embodies both her deepest fears and darkest desires, Bethany is determined to survive and find a way out of the nightmare that her life has become as a pawn in Skull's twisted games. Ultra-hot and steamy dark, erotic horror romance, intense violence and sexual encounters (dubcon, bondage, knife play, and more), exploring fear, control, manipulation, survival, and the fight for freedom in the face of unimaginable horror. Book 1 in the series - ends on a cliffhanger.
His Only Desire:
Pirate (H), a ruthless enforcer for the Hellfire Organization, kidnaps Jason to recover stolen money, he never expects to encounter Sam (h), Jason's ex-girlfriend. Sam, a legal secretary with ties to shady lawyers, becomes an unwitting pawn in Pirate's dangerous game of retribution. As Pirate's dark charisma draws Sam in, their interactions spark an intense blend of fear, desire, and psychological manipulation. Forced to navigate a world of crime and control, Sam and Pirate's relationship evolves into a twisted dance of power and attraction. Pirate's obsession with justice and his attraction to Sam complicate his mission. He forces Sam to confront her past and her feelings for him, while Sam struggles with her conflicting emotions, even as a brutal confrontation looms. Hot and steamy dark erotic romance with dubcon, bondage, power play, psychological manipulation, violence, death, and more. This is the prequel to a series and ends on a cliffhanger - at the time of this review, more of the story is available via the author's pay-for-read platform.
Pretty When You Scream:
Bethany attends a Halloween party at a Victorian mansion, where masked man known as Skull claims her in steamy dubcon encounter while people were being killed at the party, ominously telling her she is "pretty when she screams." This traumatic encounter marks the beginning of Skull's obsession with her. Haunted and terrified, Bethany tries to return to her normal life but finds herself increasingly ensnared in Skull's game. She discovers threatening notes and evidence that Skull has been in her home, further escalating her fear. Her research into the mansion reveals a disturbing history, hinting at connections between Skull and the wealthy family. Despite her attempts to avoid him, Skull continually intrudes into Bethany's life, culminating in a forced sexual encounter at her home. He leaves her marked and terrified but also confused by her own conflicting feelings for him. Skull's relentless pursuit leads Bethany to a masquerade party where she learns a shocking truth about Skull's identity, and that she's an integral part of his plan that includes forcing her to marry him. Bethany is coerced into a grotesque wedding ceremony in the depths of the family crypt, agreeing to the marriage to protect herself and her loved ones. Now bound to a man who embodies both her deepest fears and darkest desires, Bethany is determined to survive and find a way out of the nightmare that her life has become as a pawn in Skull's twisted games. Ultra-hot and steamy dark, erotic horror romance, intense violence and sexual encounters (dubcon, bondage, knife play, and more), exploring fear, control, manipulation, survival, and the fight for freedom in the face of unimaginable horror. Book 1 in the series - ends on a cliffhanger.
His Only Desire:
Pirate (H), a ruthless enforcer for the Hellfire Organization, kidnaps Jason to recover stolen money, he never expects to encounter Sam (h), Jason's ex-girlfriend. Sam, a legal secretary with ties to shady lawyers, becomes an unwitting pawn in Pirate's dangerous game of retribution. As Pirate's dark charisma draws Sam in, their interactions spark an intense blend of fear, desire, and psychological manipulation. Forced to navigate a world of crime and control, Sam and Pirate's relationship evolves into a twisted dance of power and attraction. Pirate's obsession with justice and his attraction to Sam complicate his mission. He forces Sam to confront her past and her feelings for him, while Sam struggles with her conflicting emotions, even as a brutal confrontation looms. Hot and steamy dark erotic romance with dubcon, bondage, power play, psychological manipulation, violence, death, and more. This is the prequel to a series and ends on a cliffhanger - at the time of this review, more of the story is available via the author's pay-for-read platform.
January 24, 2025
This duet is amazing! Dark and delicious!
The first book is “Pretty When You Scream.” This is my favorite of the two! It’s darker than the second one but the spicy scenes are so hot! I also like the mystery. Guessing about Skull and his friends, wondering what else they can get up to. I would love to read more about them.
The second book is “His Only Desire.” This one feels more organized crime than the first one with hitmen and mentions of the Bratva. It’s a fun short story and so interesting how Sam gets “revenge” on Jason with Pirate. What a fun way to torture an ex boyfriend!
I totally recommend this book to dark romance lovers!
The first book is “Pretty When You Scream.” This is my favorite of the two! It’s darker than the second one but the spicy scenes are so hot! I also like the mystery. Guessing about Skull and his friends, wondering what else they can get up to. I would love to read more about them.
The second book is “His Only Desire.” This one feels more organized crime than the first one with hitmen and mentions of the Bratva. It’s a fun short story and so interesting how Sam gets “revenge” on Jason with Pirate. What a fun way to torture an ex boyfriend!
I totally recommend this book to dark romance lovers!
January 29, 2025
This duet story is very spicy and dark. I would have loved more because these characters have so much more in store for us.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 21, 2025
Taken by the night are two different standalones. The books are Pretty when you scream and His only desire.
Book 1 Pretty when you scream wasn't as good as I hoped it would be. It felt like it abruptly ended in the middle of the story. I was wanting more of the story it could have been so good. Skull and Bethany's story was and odd one but when it ends it starts to really get good.
Book 2 His only desire was really good but again I wanted more of the story. Pirate was hired to kill Sam and her ex Jason but life had other plans for both Sam and Jason.
From my understanding both of these books have more chapters on the authors pay to read platform if you are interested in that. As much as I loved the stories I won't personally do the pay to read platforms.
Book 1 Pretty when you scream wasn't as good as I hoped it would be. It felt like it abruptly ended in the middle of the story. I was wanting more of the story it could have been so good. Skull and Bethany's story was and odd one but when it ends it starts to really get good.
Book 2 His only desire was really good but again I wanted more of the story. Pirate was hired to kill Sam and her ex Jason but life had other plans for both Sam and Jason.
From my understanding both of these books have more chapters on the authors pay to read platform if you are interested in that. As much as I loved the stories I won't personally do the pay to read platforms.
January 24, 2025
You never know whom you will encounter at a party or what kind of results will occur. Very sexy and dark romance. A page turner.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2025
These 2 books were DARK and had very little plot. It was just straight up spice lol. That’s not a problem I love a a good dark and spicy theme. My only thing is, I thought these were standalones? But each book ending in a cliffhanger and if you wanted to know more, you would have to sign up and pay for the other chapters. I probably wouldn’t have read this had I known that. Nothing was resolved and I’m left with so many questions. But hey the spice was definitely spicing 🔥 lol
January 22, 2025
Judging by other reviews, I’m clearly not the first to mistake this box set for a seamless duet. In reality, it’s two distinct novellas connected by a shared love for dark, brooding romance. What’s more when I got to the second book, I realized I had read it before, though, strangely, my experience this time around was completely different. But more on that later!
Let’s start with “Pretty When You Scream.” It sounded so intriguing on paper with a masked killer, a haunted heroine and a shadowy game of cat and mouse. However, the execution felt a bit muddled, with too many threads left dangling. The story follows Bethany, a woman haunted by a masked man that she saw kill someone. She feels him lurking in the shadows, but when she looks there’s no one ever there. Her memory of the crime seems hazy apart from the skull mask the killer wore. Oh, and lots and lots of blood! Fast forward to Halloween (which seems to be a week-long celebration in this world), and Bethany finds herself at a party where she meets a mysterious man wearing the same mask, who she later dubs Skull. He whisks her away to an upstairs room, where they indulge in some steamy sex as chaos unfolds downstairs. Why he saves her and pulls her into his twisted world is unclear, but it soon becomes evident that Skull has big plans for Bethany. Revenge seems to drive him, but the target of his vendetta remains unclear as his family is dead, and there’s no explanation for his choice of his other victims (perhaps that will come later). Yes, both books end on a cliffhanger, though whether they will continue on Kindle or whether they will require a Ream subscription to read more is difficult to say. Bethany, for her part, seems resigned to Skull’s machinations, though she does do some digging and believes she has him figured out. Still, his true identity shocks her. The tense, suspenseful atmosphere kept me hooked, but the lack of resolution left me frustrated. And while the premise had promise, the novella could use some polish with continuity issues detracting from what could be a much stronger narrative. Still, I’m intrigued enough to keep an eye out for the next chapter in Bethany and Skull’s story.
Now, onto the second novella: “His Only Desire.” As I mentioned, I’d read this one before, but this time felt like a completely different experience. Whether the authors revised the story or my perspective shifted, I couldn’t say—but this read was far more cohesive and engaging than the first time around. This novella follows Pirate, an enforcer for the Hellfire Organization, who’s sent to kill Jason and recover the money he stole. As if that wasn’t enough, he’s also ordered to eliminate Jason’s ex, Sam. But little did they know that Pirate had already decided Sam was his, and he’d stop at nothing to claim her. This time, the story’s flow and clarity made it easier to follow Pirate’s dangerous obsession and Sam’s reluctant journey into his world. I think it was much clearer why Sam was targeted and it wasn’t her association with Jason at all (so, did I miss all this the first time?) However, her reactions to Pirate and her complex emotions still came as a surprise. Jason was a detestable villain—a sniveling, irredeemable character who got exactly what was coming to him. And while Pirate isn’t what you’d call a hero, his obsessive devotion to Sam made for a compelling dynamic.
Both novellas are unapologetically dark, with morally gray “heroes” whose obsession with their FMCs borders on suffocating. If you’re a fan of edgy, intense romance with a dose of chaos, this box set might just be your next guilty pleasure. While the first novella left me craving more answers, the second redeemed itself as an unexpected gem. Both stories have their rough edges, but the atmosphere and tension kept me intrigued. Here’s hoping the authors deliver more clarity and polish in future installments—because these characters aren’t ones you will easily forget.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Let’s start with “Pretty When You Scream.” It sounded so intriguing on paper with a masked killer, a haunted heroine and a shadowy game of cat and mouse. However, the execution felt a bit muddled, with too many threads left dangling. The story follows Bethany, a woman haunted by a masked man that she saw kill someone. She feels him lurking in the shadows, but when she looks there’s no one ever there. Her memory of the crime seems hazy apart from the skull mask the killer wore. Oh, and lots and lots of blood! Fast forward to Halloween (which seems to be a week-long celebration in this world), and Bethany finds herself at a party where she meets a mysterious man wearing the same mask, who she later dubs Skull. He whisks her away to an upstairs room, where they indulge in some steamy sex as chaos unfolds downstairs. Why he saves her and pulls her into his twisted world is unclear, but it soon becomes evident that Skull has big plans for Bethany. Revenge seems to drive him, but the target of his vendetta remains unclear as his family is dead, and there’s no explanation for his choice of his other victims (perhaps that will come later). Yes, both books end on a cliffhanger, though whether they will continue on Kindle or whether they will require a Ream subscription to read more is difficult to say. Bethany, for her part, seems resigned to Skull’s machinations, though she does do some digging and believes she has him figured out. Still, his true identity shocks her. The tense, suspenseful atmosphere kept me hooked, but the lack of resolution left me frustrated. And while the premise had promise, the novella could use some polish with continuity issues detracting from what could be a much stronger narrative. Still, I’m intrigued enough to keep an eye out for the next chapter in Bethany and Skull’s story.
Now, onto the second novella: “His Only Desire.” As I mentioned, I’d read this one before, but this time felt like a completely different experience. Whether the authors revised the story or my perspective shifted, I couldn’t say—but this read was far more cohesive and engaging than the first time around. This novella follows Pirate, an enforcer for the Hellfire Organization, who’s sent to kill Jason and recover the money he stole. As if that wasn’t enough, he’s also ordered to eliminate Jason’s ex, Sam. But little did they know that Pirate had already decided Sam was his, and he’d stop at nothing to claim her. This time, the story’s flow and clarity made it easier to follow Pirate’s dangerous obsession and Sam’s reluctant journey into his world. I think it was much clearer why Sam was targeted and it wasn’t her association with Jason at all (so, did I miss all this the first time?) However, her reactions to Pirate and her complex emotions still came as a surprise. Jason was a detestable villain—a sniveling, irredeemable character who got exactly what was coming to him. And while Pirate isn’t what you’d call a hero, his obsessive devotion to Sam made for a compelling dynamic.
Both novellas are unapologetically dark, with morally gray “heroes” whose obsession with their FMCs borders on suffocating. If you’re a fan of edgy, intense romance with a dose of chaos, this box set might just be your next guilty pleasure. While the first novella left me craving more answers, the second redeemed itself as an unexpected gem. Both stories have their rough edges, but the atmosphere and tension kept me intrigued. Here’s hoping the authors deliver more clarity and polish in future installments—because these characters aren’t ones you will easily forget.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2025
Pretty when you scream:
Rating 4.25⭐️
Pretty When You Scream by Jasmine P. Dane and K.J. Devoir is like watching Scream but with a steamy romance subplot you didn’t know you needed. If you’ve ever thought, “This slasher film could really use some spice,” then this book is right up your alley. Bethany, just minding her business, accidentally witnesses Skull—a masked killer in action. His skull mask? Strangely iconic. Her obsession with him? Definitely concerning. But hey, his obsession with her is where things get seriously dark and twisted.
Despite all the psychological tension and danger, there’s an oddly entertaining dynamic between them. The "I’m supposed to kill you, but I’m also kind of into you" vibe is as thrilling as it is chaotic. It's a dark, spicy rollercoaster of a story that will keep you hooked, just don’t read it before bed unless you’re into the whole nightmares with a side of heat thing.
His only desire:
Rating 4⭐️
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to have a morally unhinged hitman ruin your life and your ability to make rational decisions, His Only Desire has you covered. Pirate is the kind of man who kidnaps your ex, threatens your sanity, and somehow still makes you consider terrible life choices. Poor Sam never stood a chance. One minute, she’s a legal secretary minding her own business, the next, she’s in the middle of a high-stakes criminal chess match where she’s the queen, the pawn, and the prize all at once.
Fast, filthy, and full of chaos, this book drags you into a whirlwind of crime, obsession, and questionable decision-making. Pirate is an absolute menace, and Sam is out here trying to make logical decisions, which is hilarious because logic left the chat the moment Pirate showed up.The tension is lethal, the steam is off the charts, and the ending? A brutal cliffhanger—because apparently, Jasmine P. Dane enjoys watching us suffer. And honestly? I’m here for it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Rating 4.25⭐️
Pretty When You Scream by Jasmine P. Dane and K.J. Devoir is like watching Scream but with a steamy romance subplot you didn’t know you needed. If you’ve ever thought, “This slasher film could really use some spice,” then this book is right up your alley. Bethany, just minding her business, accidentally witnesses Skull—a masked killer in action. His skull mask? Strangely iconic. Her obsession with him? Definitely concerning. But hey, his obsession with her is where things get seriously dark and twisted.
Despite all the psychological tension and danger, there’s an oddly entertaining dynamic between them. The "I’m supposed to kill you, but I’m also kind of into you" vibe is as thrilling as it is chaotic. It's a dark, spicy rollercoaster of a story that will keep you hooked, just don’t read it before bed unless you’re into the whole nightmares with a side of heat thing.
His only desire:
Rating 4⭐️
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to have a morally unhinged hitman ruin your life and your ability to make rational decisions, His Only Desire has you covered. Pirate is the kind of man who kidnaps your ex, threatens your sanity, and somehow still makes you consider terrible life choices. Poor Sam never stood a chance. One minute, she’s a legal secretary minding her own business, the next, she’s in the middle of a high-stakes criminal chess match where she’s the queen, the pawn, and the prize all at once.
Fast, filthy, and full of chaos, this book drags you into a whirlwind of crime, obsession, and questionable decision-making. Pirate is an absolute menace, and Sam is out here trying to make logical decisions, which is hilarious because logic left the chat the moment Pirate showed up.The tension is lethal, the steam is off the charts, and the ending? A brutal cliffhanger—because apparently, Jasmine P. Dane enjoys watching us suffer. And honestly? I’m here for it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 17, 2025
"Wanting so badly to tune out the horrid noise, I let myself get lost in the soothing feel of his lips on my skin."
"Ignoring the alarming clatter, I close my eyes as his mouth caresses my thighs,..."
There's chaos outside the door and she even heard gunshot and yet she let this mask stranger fuk her? He doesn't even have to forced her.
Dark romance is not a good reason for this weirdness.
Then, he tied her wrist above her head, buuut.... " I hesitate briefly before grabbing his hard, swollen cock in my hand and opening my mouth wide... "
A second later... "I only wish he would free my wrists so I could wipe my mouth,..."
And another second later, "I grab onto his strong arms, desperate... "
Then... Voila... “We need...to hurry,” he says, untying me.
Weird and inconsistent is mild words for this first chapter alone.
What's going on, authors??
For Beth and Skulls"s chemistry, I don't get any. But the mystery surrounding the killings, that the reason I keep reading.
From the authors note, this book contains two stand-alone books. My mistake was I didn't read the note and tought this book is one complete story from a duet books.
Huge mistake.
The second part of the book is Pirate and Sam's story. And the whole story is all about Sam the "captive" enjoying chapter after chapter of hard fukin with the villain. Good segs scenes, but nothing more.
And for Beth and Skull's story.. Is it really finish? Cause it doesn't feel finish.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Ignoring the alarming clatter, I close my eyes as his mouth caresses my thighs,..."
There's chaos outside the door and she even heard gunshot and yet she let this mask stranger fuk her? He doesn't even have to forced her.
Dark romance is not a good reason for this weirdness.
Then, he tied her wrist above her head, buuut.... " I hesitate briefly before grabbing his hard, swollen cock in my hand and opening my mouth wide... "
A second later... "I only wish he would free my wrists so I could wipe my mouth,..."
And another second later, "I grab onto his strong arms, desperate... "
Then... Voila... “We need...to hurry,” he says, untying me.
Weird and inconsistent is mild words for this first chapter alone.
What's going on, authors??
For Beth and Skulls"s chemistry, I don't get any. But the mystery surrounding the killings, that the reason I keep reading.
From the authors note, this book contains two stand-alone books. My mistake was I didn't read the note and tought this book is one complete story from a duet books.
Huge mistake.
The second part of the book is Pirate and Sam's story. And the whole story is all about Sam the "captive" enjoying chapter after chapter of hard fukin with the villain. Good segs scenes, but nothing more.
And for Beth and Skull's story.. Is it really finish? Cause it doesn't feel finish.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2025
Book One: I have previously reviewed this as a standalone book. I was totally in, at the mention if a masked stalker. One who came in the dead of night and took what he wanted. Bethany was no match for Skull and what he wanted from her. She witnessed a crime a year prior and was unawares that the killer had been watching her this whole time. Just waiting to take her and make her his. I loved the fact that Skull just took what he wanted, and how he wanted. Whether she wanted it or not The first time they were together, as he took her at a Halloween haunted house party, there was no way he was letting her go. It was a great erotic dark romance thriller that had a back story that was unfolding. I def enjoyed the spice and the chemistry between Beth and Skull was steamy and erotic.
Book Two: His Only Desire. I found that it was a really good story, very spicy and sexy. But I wanted more of the story between the mmc and the fmc. I can feel the obsession and the desire that Pirate had for Sam, but I felt like it needed more. It is def spicy and a dark stalker read for sure, which I enjoy. But I wanted more. And I know you can get more elsewhere thru a pay to read platform.
These are def not the same story and don't take place in the same universe essentially. I wish they were more interconnected and had a flow to them. I wanted so much for this to be a cat/mouse duet maybe. I def love a OTT unhinged Pitchblack black MMC tho;)
I rcvd this a advanced read and I am giving my review voluntarily
Book Two: His Only Desire. I found that it was a really good story, very spicy and sexy. But I wanted more of the story between the mmc and the fmc. I can feel the obsession and the desire that Pirate had for Sam, but I felt like it needed more. It is def spicy and a dark stalker read for sure, which I enjoy. But I wanted more. And I know you can get more elsewhere thru a pay to read platform.
These are def not the same story and don't take place in the same universe essentially. I wish they were more interconnected and had a flow to them. I wanted so much for this to be a cat/mouse duet maybe. I def love a OTT unhinged Pitchblack black MMC tho;)
I rcvd this a advanced read and I am giving my review voluntarily
January 20, 2025
Two books, I initially thought it was a duet and one story, my bad. The first book is Pretty when you Scream, a re read for me on this one, but I was happy to delve into this dark, spicy mix of horror, murder and romance. Once I started this beut, I couldn't put it down, devouring it with the eagerness it deserves. Not having read any books by this duo, I am eager to read more from them. My only wish is that is was longer, not a novella, but alas it ends on a cliffhanger so I can delve into the next gem in this series.
It was so good, Bethany and Skull, he is seekimg revenge , she is drawn into his games through a one night stand. Dramatic at times, I was eager for everything it gave. I look forward to reading the next nook in the series when it comes out.
The second book His Only Desire is a revenge story. Pirate the enforcer is sent to kill Jason and Sam Jason's ex girlfriend. Jason has been stealing money and Sam knowingly turns a blind eye to the lawyers she worls for with their illegal activities and deals.
Pirate's way of torture for Sam turns out to be an erotic encounter that forms a romance, that is filled with passion, crime, death and unhinged episodes.
I enjoyed noth novellas, but both end on cliffhangers. I hope the continuation of the books are available to read, not just on the Ream website but on Kindle too.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was so good, Bethany and Skull, he is seekimg revenge , she is drawn into his games through a one night stand. Dramatic at times, I was eager for everything it gave. I look forward to reading the next nook in the series when it comes out.
The second book His Only Desire is a revenge story. Pirate the enforcer is sent to kill Jason and Sam Jason's ex girlfriend. Jason has been stealing money and Sam knowingly turns a blind eye to the lawyers she worls for with their illegal activities and deals.
Pirate's way of torture for Sam turns out to be an erotic encounter that forms a romance, that is filled with passion, crime, death and unhinged episodes.
I enjoyed noth novellas, but both end on cliffhangers. I hope the continuation of the books are available to read, not just on the Ream website but on Kindle too.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 19, 2025
There are no connections between the two novellas in this duet. So be prepared for no closures.
The first one ‘Pretty When You Scream’ is a steamy dark horror romance that pulled me right in. There’s lot of violence, sexual encounters, a forced marriage that keeps you on the edge. This book frustrated me in so many ways. Trying to figure out the mysteries and the way it ended. The ending was horrible was wrong. It just abruptly stopped. Not even a cliffhanger per se. And there’s no indication that it would be a cliffhanger or if there will even be a second book.
The second novella, His Only Desire is more of an erotic, crime dark romance with bondage, violence, power play and a lot of steam. This one leaves you with more of a cliffhanger than an abrupt stop like the last one. The build was awesome between Skull and Cherry. They both made each other face their own internal battles.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first one ‘Pretty When You Scream’ is a steamy dark horror romance that pulled me right in. There’s lot of violence, sexual encounters, a forced marriage that keeps you on the edge. This book frustrated me in so many ways. Trying to figure out the mysteries and the way it ended. The ending was horrible was wrong. It just abruptly stopped. Not even a cliffhanger per se. And there’s no indication that it would be a cliffhanger or if there will even be a second book.
The second novella, His Only Desire is more of an erotic, crime dark romance with bondage, violence, power play and a lot of steam. This one leaves you with more of a cliffhanger than an abrupt stop like the last one. The build was awesome between Skull and Cherry. They both made each other face their own internal battles.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2025
love a thriller romance duet, and this book consist of two novellas and I’ll provide a review of each
Pretty When You Scream
This one is high on the thriller spectrum and I love the whole masked man trope. I loved the plot, about a mass murderer on the loose, and Bethany being caught in the middle of it all, by her masked stalker. I’m really intrigued by Skulls character as he seems to have a much deeper history and character than just a psycho stalker. That cliffhanger was so brutal, and I’m so excited to see how it ends!
His Only Desire
Another amazing captive x captor story, but this time the mmc is a vigilante. Pirate has been closed off since he was a kid and now Cherry is awakening part of him he never thought he’d get back. It’s a beautiful story, but also smutty in which I love the scene where they fvck in front of her ex as a method of torture and interrogation. The cliffhanger wasn’t as intense, but it still really curious as to where they are headed!
Pretty When You Scream
This one is high on the thriller spectrum and I love the whole masked man trope. I loved the plot, about a mass murderer on the loose, and Bethany being caught in the middle of it all, by her masked stalker. I’m really intrigued by Skulls character as he seems to have a much deeper history and character than just a psycho stalker. That cliffhanger was so brutal, and I’m so excited to see how it ends!
His Only Desire
Another amazing captive x captor story, but this time the mmc is a vigilante. Pirate has been closed off since he was a kid and now Cherry is awakening part of him he never thought he’d get back. It’s a beautiful story, but also smutty in which I love the scene where they fvck in front of her ex as a method of torture and interrogation. The cliffhanger wasn’t as intense, but it still really curious as to where they are headed!
February 3, 2025
This book is a lot shorter than the Kindle version makes out. I thought I still had 30% left to go and it ended. The rest of the book was a sneak peek of the second book and other books. I would have preferred this book to either just end with the sneak peek and be slightly longer or just end where the story is stopped…… to be continued.
I liked this book but there was parts of it which completely blew my mind and not in a good way. One minute she's wearing black gloves then a couple of pages later she's in white gloves. And for me it feels like the story just jumps from scenario to scenario rather than flowing.
I liked this book but there was parts of it which completely blew my mind and not in a good way. One minute she's wearing black gloves then a couple of pages later she's in white gloves. And for me it feels like the story just jumps from scenario to scenario rather than flowing.
May 7, 2025
His only desire- Pirate is an enforcer tasked with taking Jason to get the money due only he ends up meeting Jason's ex Cher, and for both of them their lives won't be the same again. Well written, dark themes, desires, angst drama and more! Ends on a cliffy.
Pretty when you scream- Bethany becomes entrapped in killer Skull world and now he surrounds her every thought and being day and night. Skull maybe a man of mystery but he's one she's met before and nothing will stop him from getting what he wants, her. Well written with suspense, mystery, desires, steamy scenes, and a cliffy that has you craving more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Pretty when you scream- Bethany becomes entrapped in killer Skull world and now he surrounds her every thought and being day and night. Skull maybe a man of mystery but he's one she's met before and nothing will stop him from getting what he wants, her. Well written with suspense, mystery, desires, steamy scenes, and a cliffy that has you craving more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2025
When I picked these books I was not sure what to expect. I can't say I was disappointed. There were interesting moments in the book where I felt the author took it to the next level and some very low moments hence the rating. I'm conflicted because I've never read this author before. I'd like to read more from her to see if she's my cup of tea or not.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2025
Please check all CW and TW before starting this one! This one is a combo of the first two books of this series. We get Bethany and Skull story first which gives you a bit of a psychological feel to it. Then we get Sam and Pirate's story which will have you on the edge of your seat.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 1, 2025
TAKEN BY THE NIGHT BY JASMINE P. DANE.
This contains two standalone books and is the 1st book in there series.
The first book is PRETTY WHEN YOU SCREAM.
I enjoyed it. It was dark, violent and very steamy.
It was a page turner for me.
The second book was HIS ONLY DESIRE was a Very quick and enjoyable read.
It contains mafia, kidnapping, stalking and it's kinda hot.
This contains two standalone books and is the 1st book in there series.
The first book is PRETTY WHEN YOU SCREAM.
I enjoyed it. It was dark, violent and very steamy.
It was a page turner for me.
The second book was HIS ONLY DESIRE was a Very quick and enjoyable read.
It contains mafia, kidnapping, stalking and it's kinda hot.
May 16, 2025
Perfection!
Taken by the Night is two standalone stalker dark romance stories in one.
Double the spice, double the unhinged MMC's, double the darkness, double the fun!
I loved this so much!!
These men are *chefs kiss*.
This will definitely go in the read again pile!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Taken by the Night is two standalone stalker dark romance stories in one.
Double the spice, double the unhinged MMC's, double the darkness, double the fun!
I loved this so much!!
These men are *chefs kiss*.
This will definitely go in the read again pile!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2025
This worked well as a stalker romance novel and enjoyed that this had book 1 and 2 in this. I enjoyed the dark romance element that I was wanting and worked overall in the genre and was invested from start to finish. Jasmine P. Dane wrote this perfectly and enjoyed the erotic horror elements that I was looking for.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2025
These are two great books. Having them in one box set makes it easier to read them one after another. If you are looking for dark thrills and a morally unhinged mmc, this is totally for you.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2025
A wonderful box set. Book books in one place. A dark romance. Each book in the collection is a page turner. I couldn't put it down,
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 29, 2025
This is 2 completely different books. When I picked it up, I thought that it was 2 books in a duet. Nope. Other than that, I was sucked into both books and I'm screaming because I need to know what happened after the end!!! I really hope there will be a book to follow up!
February 3, 2025
Bethany is experiencing all the dark romance girlie's dreams! Own a bookstore in a small town with a hot masked stalker. *swoon* I can tell you the twist in "Pretty When You Scream", is not something you'll see coming!
You only need one word to describe "His Only Desire"; Bastion...
You only need one word to describe "His Only Desire"; Bastion...
February 3, 2025
I really loved this duet. These books were spicy and action packed from the beginning, which I loved. All the characters were very interesting and there stories were great. The both ended on a to be continued. I can't wait to finish them !!
February 3, 2025
The two stories are both good but incomplete in this set. Just enough to give you a taste. The characters are good and so are the plots. But both leave you hanging.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2025
I did not realize when I accepted this arc copy that I'd already read both books.
I enjoyed the first one pretty when you scream the second one was okay.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed the first one pretty when you scream the second one was okay.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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