Convict's Game

Skeleton Crew #1

by Jolie Vines

***Sequel to the #1 bestseller Body Count***
I never planned to chain a gangster to my bed, but now, I’m not letting him go.
I was raised in boardrooms, not back alleys.
But when my grandfather died and our company fell into chaos, I uncovered something far worse than bad accounting: a connection to the city’s darkest underworld.
I needed answers. I needed help.
So I made a deal with a devil in a skeleton mask. One with a body made for sin and a past that might destroy us both.
Convict is brutal, broken, beautiful, and claims he knows me, even if he’s a stranger. Amnesia stole his memories, yet the way he touches me, looks at me, and possesses me, tells a different story.
Now I’m in too deep, with the man, with his skeleton crew, and with the secrets someone is killing to protect.
And the only way out is to bring it all crashing down.

Convict’s Game is the first book in a high-heat, dark romance, murder mystery trilogy with a skeleton-masked crew, an obsessive-sweet gangster, the smart cookie he’s insta-obsessed with, and a city where the shadows hide more than just sin.
This series picks up where the #1 bestselling Body Count series left off.

Tropes & Themes:
• Corporate Princess x Street King
• A deal with a delicious devil
• Dangerous games (the chasing kind plus more)
• Cute AF gangster hero with amnesia
• Obsessive love, rough play, and handcuff action
• Found family, secrets, and a deadly inheritance
• A murder mystery to solve (with clues)
Check the TWs in the front or on my website. Trust me, they’re there for a reason, little gangster.

Genres: Dark Romance, Romance, Dark, Crime, Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Audiobook

424 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 18, 2025

About the author

JOLIE VINES is a romance novelist who lives in the South West of England with her husband and young son.

From an early age, Jolie lived in a fantasy world and is never happier than when plot dreaming. Jolie loves her heroes to be one-woman guys. Whether they are a huge Highlander, a touch starved earl, or a brooding pilot, they will adore their loved one until the end of time.

Her favourite pastime is wrecking emotions then making up for it by giving her characters deep and meaningful happy ever afters.

Want to contact Jolie? Drop her a line at jolie [at] jolievines.com, or find her in her Facebook Fall Hard reader group. She loves hearing from her readers.

Sign up to her newsletter to be the first to hear about new releases, giveaways, and promotions. https://www.jolievines.com/newsletter

Reviews

[SK · Rating 4 out of 5]

“You’re such a villain.”
“Says the woman who so badly wants to fuck the villain, she crawled all over him earlier. Don’t be mad that you tried to ride the devil and discovered he’s no saint."

I swear Jolie Vines writes such fun dark romances, I'm yet to find a one I didn't like. Like sure sometimes the dialogues can be a bit cringe but the plot, the action, the chemistry and banter between characters is amazing. And let's not forget the spice and how kinky it gets every book. Like you're taken by surprise or find a new kink to unlock 👀 Just saying. I was also surprised by how well the amnesia trope was written. It's such a delicate trope and the author did well here.

“Love is earned. Not demanded.”
“Not for me. Not now. I need it.”

I loved Convict. He's such a messed up, sweet ass red flag. (Yes, I know how weird that sounds but you gotta read to find out). Mila is such a baddie, such a good blend of realistic and sweet and at the same time fierce and unrepentant. Their chemistry is so good. Like they had me swooning within a few pages ngl.

The only thing that keeps me from giving it five stars is the fact the second half was slightly weaker, especially towards the end. The first half was a bit more fun comparatively. Overall, a fun read. Also, it would be wise to check out trigger warnings before reading it and a reminder that it is part of an interconnected series.

~•~•~
When the dedication is this- To the reader who swore she was into nice guys. Oops. You chose the one with a blade and a snake tattoo. Enjoy your downfall, little gangster.

Oh I'm about to enjoy my downfall amazingly 😌🤭

[Ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐

Convict, a man after my heart, red flags and all..
I had so much fun!! I love this world so much and it truly never disappoints. Jolie knows how to deliver the action and the chemistry and of course some great spice!!

I absolutely loved Convict, he was unhinged, direct and a walking red flag, but so incredibly sweet. My heart hurt for him, he deserves all the love. The amnesia trope was handled really well in my opinion, it made his story much more impactful. The way he was obsessed with Mila since the first time he saw her and how he was ready to do anything for her, was everything and we do love a man that talks you through it!!
Mila was amazing, so determined and she stood her ground. She was fighting hard against her feelings, so seeing her be there for him, over everything else, did something to my heart. I loved that scene in the hospital. And the scene after she was attacked, guys, that was so hot. This series is truly a gift that keeps on giving!!
The banter was amazing and their chemistry off the charts, I really enjoyed it. The moments where she trusted him completely were so good!! And all the little games, they were the best part. Him doing them, even when she was mad at him, was so fun.

I love the new mystery, it kept me on my toes, I honestly have no idea who's the killer..
I'm so happy the crew's back together, I missed everyone so much and the moments between Arran and Convict made me a little emotional. The found family aspect is, for me, the true soul of these stories.. And of course, the Skeleton Girls Detective Agency is back in business, I adore them working together again, this time with two new members.

The only reason I took away half a star is the pacing, it was a little inconsistent. The plot is always a winner though, so I didn't mind that much.
Also, please check the trigger warnings, this isn't going to be in everyones taste. And as this is a sequel to the Body Count trilogy, I highly recommend reading that first!!! It will make your reading experience so much better.

I can't wait for Kane's and Lovelyn's story next, the crumbs that we were given were so good. I'll be here waiting (im)patiently..

.·:*¨ ¨*:·.

I'm so behind on everything, but I simply cannot wait anymore.. I need to read this, everything else can wait!!!
I'm so excited!! 🖤

[Erika Braga · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

He calls her Little Gangster.
She calls him my Lost Boy.

Awwww Convict….. I KNEW I was going to LOVE you 🖤

“If gangster, why so adorable?”
“If gangster, why so funny?”
“if gangster, why so SEXY?”

I loved the Body Count trilogy by Jolie Vines and throughout the series I was aching for Convict story. I am happy she gave him a book and he did not disappoint me. The only reason I didn’t rate it higher it’s because I really wanted to see his memories back.

This book starts right when the last book of the Body Count finished, so we get Convict back, he is not dead like we thought but badly injured in a hospital by himself and with not a single memory. Luckily our sweet girl Dixie sees him and calls the crew. From there it’s a mystery of what happened? How it happened? With who it happened? And unfortunately we don’t get all the answers UGHHHHHH ! This is the first book of a trilogy and we will get the answers as we read the others, but it left me unsatisfied because I wanted to at least get all his memories, I know he got them back but the author doesn’t detail to us.
Regardless, I LOVE his instant obsession with Mila, I love the fact that he is so honest, open, direct, funny and hot as hell. I love how he had to “again” enter the game to save/get her, and let me tell you that the game as we explored fully in Arran’s Obsession, is a very HOT game 🔥🥵🔥. Convict is a very determined man with a big heart and other big body parts 😂, very convenient and useful if you ask me ….
But yes he is always making sexy games with Mila and she has no way to resist him. Why would she? The guy is SO HOT!
Mila is a good girl who’s trying to fix a bad situation with her family and business, she needs help cause it’s all very shady. And Convict with his amazing Skeleton Gang are there to help. I love how we got the girls back, Genevieve, Lovelyn, Dixie, Everly and my FAVORITE Cassie. And I also LOVED that we got all guys back Shade, Tyler, Riordan, Many and obviously the boss ARRAN ! We have here the introduction of a new guy, Kane who’s a mercenary and Mila’s brother and the next book will be his with Lovelyn 😍😍😍😍 but the one I can’t truly wait because I’ve been shipping them since the Body Count trilogy it is TYLER AND DIXIE 😍♥️😍♥️😍 I cannot wait for their book.
So yeah I had fun …



Ps. I didn’t know that’s how you have a haircut!

“If you know you know it!”

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you loved the body count series and hoped that world wasn’t over yet then buckle up because Convict is everything your Jolie Vines lil smutty heart has been yearning for. I loved this book the more work I read from Jolie the more I realize she has really broken the code. Convict can’t remember but I’m so glad I do and loved every second of this. The mystery is just as good and I’m sure I’ll be blown away by book 3. 5/5 ⭐️ 5/5 🌶️

This hot story contains:

*Cute AF gangster hero with amnesia

*A deal with a delicious devil

*Dangerous games (the chasing kind plus more)

*A murder mystery to solve (with clues)

Skeleton Crew picks up directly where Body Count left off.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've waited for this book.....Let me say, this book did NOT disappoint! Convict and Mila were such a good match.

If you have not read the Body Count Series--please do (you'll love it!)! It takes off from there perfectly and will help in understanding a lot about Convict and the whole Skeleton Crew, what they do and stand for etc. There are good plot lines to follow, none of which become messed up or confusing.

Convict has changed since the Body Count series and for good reason. He's recovering from amnesia and with that he is trying to piece his past together right along with his future which he finds he wants with Mila. He sees her and lightly stalks her until he finds her in The Game and knows what he's got to do.

Mila (Emilia) is working on her own personal "project". She's a business woman in her family's business. Her grandfather dies and the business is in chaos--she takes it on herself to fix this. This brings her to Convict in a way she wasn't expecting or wanting.

This book revolves around all the twists and turns in this mystery and is a thrilling read that brings the good spice and some old and new characters to the story.

If you didn't love Convict before, you certainly will now!

"Want to Play a game?"

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book from BookFunnel.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Read - 5🌟 as always.. Perfection.

✨"I need you, I've waited all my life for someone to love me" ✨

I'm very much a mood reader. More than anything else I go off how the book makes me feel and this gave me everything and more. I felt like it healed parts of me I didn't realise needed healing. I think I nearly cried about 8 times 🤭 (I'm very emotional😅)

The plot as always is 10 10! The way it's written brings us along for the ride with the characters and makes us feel like we're also trying to solve the secrets and the murder mystery 🕵🏻‍♀️

I need one of cassie shirts!

Over anything I'm so happy Arran, Shade and Convict are back together!! And seeing appearances from the body count gang had me smiling and getting excited and of course appearances from shades tracker 🔫 😂

But of course convict and Mila are true soul mates.. He knew it from the first moment he laid eyes on her 🥰

[Wilmalys · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨️ARC REVIEW✨️

“Actually, considering my amnesia, I’m technically a born-again virgin. Except for you, Mila, destroyer of my reset button.”


This book did not disappoint. It was everything we expected from this crew and more!!!

After everything that happened with Convict and Arran, I was dying for Convict's story, and it was perfect 👌🏽 even with his memory loss he was amazing and fun and a great MMC 🥰

I loved his background and everything we learned about him. He's the sweetest man. I loved his possessivenes and his desperation for Mila. He was just great.

Mila was a great FMC. She was perfectly matched with Convict. Their chemistry and bond were intense and feral. They needed each other. The sexual connection was hot 🥵 He was everything she wanted and didn't know how to ask for.

I enjoyed this book so much, I can't wait for the next one. Kane is so mysterious. I'm looking forward to getting to know him better.

This is book 1 in a trilogy, so we dont get all the answers, but it was enough to keep me interested and want to know more about what's really going on with Grandpa and the boats...

Definitely recommend this book. 💯




“I love your carefree spirit and how wild and adventurous you are. I am crazy about the way you’re such an open book. You wear your heart on your sleeve, and I’m the luckiest woman in the world that this heart is mine.”

[Denna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Convict’s Game was the eighth book by Jolie Vines I’ve read this year – and like every single one, it’s a 5-star read.

I was thrilled the moment I found out we were getting the Skeleton Crew series. But when I learned the very first book would be about Convict? I was as excited as a kid on Christmas morning.
Sure, you could probably read this series as a standalone, but honestly—why would you? Just like Body Count, Skeleton Crew is pure perfection.

I was hooked from page one. I love how the author slowly weaves new mysteries and secrets into the story. After this book, I have a whole list of questions I desperately need answered. I can already see this series keeping me in suspense until the very end, just like Body Count. And I absolutely love that!

Convict was exactly what I imagined—an obsessive, walking red flag. What more could anyone want in a dark romance man?
Mila fascinated me, and her family’s secrets will haunt me until the very end of the series.

Convict’s Game also brought back familiar characters who still burn bright with their uniqueness, while introducing new ones I already know I’ll fall for.

The spicy scenes? As always, absolute perfection—nothing more needs to be said.

To sum it up: if you’ve loved any Jolie Vines book, Convict’s Game is a must-read. And if you haven’t? Well, it’s about time you fix that.

[Cassandra 🍁☕️📚 · Rating 4 out of 5]

-3.5🌟

[aisbeareads ❄️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Unputdownable ✨

[Sarah Giordano · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC and I was so excited for it!!

Although you could probably read this series without reading any of Jolie’s other books, reading the Body Count series starting with Arran’s Obsession is majorly helpful for background. And it does end on a bit of a cliffhanger where the story continues with Kane! He’s new to the Deadwater world and I am so excited to read his story!

If you read the Body Count series, then you were probably begging for a Convict book! He is so swoony obsessive but also shows his vulnerability to Mila at every turn.

Mila had me scratching my head for a minute because I couldn’t figure out her motives, but she turns out to be pretty bad@ss. It was fun to see her fit in with the other Skeleton Girls.

This turns into another murder mystery, and even more uncertainty leaves you wanting to scream “but what about…?!??” Convict is my new favorite morally grey man in Deadwater and I cannot wait to continue the series!!


ETA: I just finished the audiobook version and Holy Hell!!! As a reluctant US citizen, the accents for me were so beautiful. Convict took me a few chapters to get used to and understand, but that’s just my sad sad American ears 😂 his growly voice was so HOT after that. And I just loved Mila’s sweet voice. Made the book even better for me!

[Cdoc's Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so happy to be diving back into the filthy, depraved, but oh so delicious world of Deadwater! I loved the original Body Count series so much last year, and I'm so happy to be continuing the story this year with the new Skeleton Crew series.

💜 Dark Romance
💀 Corporate Princess x Street King
💜 Morally Gray/Obsessed MMC
💀 Amnesia
💜 Murder Mystery
💀 Found Family

I wouldn't say that it's a requirement to read the Body Count series before this one... But I do think you would be sorely missing out on a lot of backstory if you just dived right into this series without it. Especially since Convict (our MMC), has quite the character arc through the original series. But to each their own that's just my little disclaimer!

Convict started off this book with amnesia, and apparently so did I 😅. The more he would remember, so would I. I really appreciated the subtle little refresher in the beginning, because it has been a while since I've set foot in this world and I did forget some details. I also know the amnesia trope isn't for everyone, but I love it, especially the way it was done in this. I liked the way Convict slowly would remember people along the way, but there were still details that were fuzzy. It really upped the stakes towards the end not knowing right alongside him and then watching it all unfold with him.

But enough about the amnesia, let's talk about my sweet little psychopath Convict. I was so intrigued by him in the last series, and I'm so happy he finally got his moment in the sun. He certainly earned it and then some after all he's had to go through.

Now moving on to our FMC Mila! She's a new edition to the gang, but quickly captures Convicts attention. Although she is quite literally thrown in the deep end when she enters "The Game" unwillingly, she ends up holding her own, and after becomes such a good balance for Convict. He puts her through her paces, and she ends up giving it right back in the end, which I appreciated.

What I adore most about all of Jolie's book's is the found family she builds. Everyone is always welcomed with open arms, and even in this dark and gritter series that message is still the same. I loved seeing all the girls welcome Mila into the Skelton Girls Detective Agency. All those ladies have massively messed up families, and I have enjoyed seeing them find that sisterly bond with each other. Secondly, I loved seeing the found family aspect represented with the men in the Skeleton Crew, especially Aarran and Convict in this. Men who actually talk about what's going on with each other, talk through problems that they have, and HUG EACH OTHER?! Feels odd for a gang of alpha males, but I absolutely love them even more for it.

Also all the side characters, new and old, intrigued me so much!! I can't wait for a few of them to get their own books soon. The series seems to be shaping up nicely. We have drama, mystery, and so much tension already between characters that has me so excited for what is to come next!! 👀

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨

** Thank you for Jolie Vines and her team for the eARC of this in exchange for my honest review

[Minnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

5⭐|3🌶|20% frequency

I won't lie... After finishing the "Body Count" series, I really didn't like Convict. OK, at the end, I wasn't even sure what to think about him at all anymore. Yeah, it was really difficult.
Do you have to read the Body Count series first? No. Would I recommend it? YEEEEESSSS. I really think you would miss out a lot. Would I recommend reading the "Dark Island Scots" before that? Yes. If you read both series before, you will definitely get the best experience at all. And believe me, you don't want to miss it 😁

So, OK, I didn't like Convict... But now... Holy cannoli 😲 This man is definitely obsessed. Yes, he fits perfectly in the Skeleton Crew 🤣 These men are all OTT obsessed and possessive.

There are a lot of similarities between Arran & Genevieve vs Convict & Mila. Both girls got into The Game unwillingly. And both men jump into The Game to rescue their woman. And the women? They both aren't that happy with the rules of The Game 🤣 Girls, honestly, you get the hottest of hot men who have to satisfy you for 30 days! Believe me, girls, we ordinary people would give everything for that 🙈
And as similar as they are, they are so different.

Perfect, it's the same every time. Right when I want to start with the real stuff, I have to stop 🤬

Short...
I absolutely LOVED this book, I would give more than 5⭐ if I could. And yes, it ends on a cliffhanger for the story that went through the trilogy. But yes, there is an HFN already. I think we have to wait for the full HEA till the full ending of the trilogy. And we will see them and the whole Skeleton crew a lot in the next two books (I'm pretty sure about that 😁).


Thanks to the author & @lover.ofbooks80 for trusting me with an ARC 🩷


Follow me on IG for more
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[Amanda Abromovitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Why does my heart know you, Mila? Why can’t I stop thinking about you? You say stranger, but I know you.”

Oh. My. God. You guys aren’t ready for the incredible ride this book is and I am dying until we get to kanes prey next. There are moments I was so on edge I couldn’t take the suspense and moments so delicious that Convict is now my favorite skeleton crew boy. And that’s saying a lot because they’re so good.

Jolie is one of my favorite authors for a reason. Her writing style is so unique and captivating. I can’t help but find myself fully immersed and lost into the stories she writes. I can only describe it as an adventure romance. It’s a little bit dark, a little mafia-ish, a bit suspenseful, with some much more woven in. It’s like she has her own category.

“If he isn’t tracking your every move, then he doesn’t deserve the title of skeleton crew.”

Convicts game is the start of the next trilogy in the Deadwater murder mystery series that follows the Skelton crew gang. We’ve got familiar faces from the first trilogy (see Arran’s Obsession if you haven’t read that yet), there are new players, and a whole new mystery to unravel.
Convict was as good as dead at the end of Riordan’s Revenge but lucky us, he isn’t dead! He survived but has some gaps in memory.
Mila comes from a prominent business family in Deadwater, her grandfather has recently passed and the business is in chaos. Mila is determined to get things sorted out even if that puts her in danger. When Convict sees Mila, he knows immediately there is something special. A connection that’s undeniable.
I loved every second of this read and I think I will be re reading again very soon to see if I can start theorizing who the murderer is and where the pieces will fall by the end of this trilogy!

“P.S. You didn’t just swoon for a broken bad boy. You fell hard. Welcome to the game, little gangster.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Convict’s Game

We are back in Deadwater with Jolie Vines' new series Skeleton Crew! We are introduced to fantastic new characters such as Emilia, the FMC of this story, and also have returning characters we know and love from Jolie’s Body Count Series, like our skeleton crew member Convict! Convict’s Game is a fast-paced dark romance, murder mystery full of twists! It is told from multiple perspectives, which I absolutely love!

The story surrounds Convict as he wakes up from a coma in the hospital. He cannot remember who he is as he suffered amnesia. He has to try to put the pieces of his life back together. Is he good, is he bad? Did he cross his crew? Convict can't trust his thoughts or himself since he can't remember his life before the incident. But the one thing he can trust is his feelings when he meets Emilia. Immediately he feels the connection between the two of them and he will do anything to make Emilia his 💜 Convict and Emilia's chemistry is off the charts and you won’t be able to put the book down!

I am so happy to be back in Deadwater with the Skeleton Crew series! Convict’s Game was everything I was hoping for and more! I absolutely missed this world and am loving where this new series is going! I'm completely hooked and am looking forward to reading the next book Kane’s Prey!

[Kari McKenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Received ARC from author’s team in exchange for an honest review*

4 Stars
4 Spice
Genre: Dark Romance, Suspense
Tropes: Amnesia, Close Proximity, He Falls First, Obsession
Main Characters: Roscoe “Convict” Locke, Emilia Marchant

While amnesia trope is not a favorite of mine, the story is compelling enough to ignore that. I enjoyed how certain things would trigger parts of Convict’s memory as it kept the plot feeling realistic. I also love how he’s known as a feels-no-pain (literally), powerhouse of a man, and all but buckles for the fearless, eff off attitude of corporate girl, Mila. It’s a fun twist on a billionaire romance dynamic.

Since it’s the beginning of a trilogy, you won’t find complete understanding of what’s going on by the end. But the world building and character development is what we’ve come to love about Jolie Vines’ work. The spice is spicing as well a just the right amount of twisted to keep you coming back for more.

[Michelle T · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️ 4 🌶️

Convict swooped straight in and stole my heart. He’s the perfect blend of tough gangster, with a soft interior, broken boy and possessive alpha with a mixed collection of red and green flags.
I adored his story and the amnesia trope is done sooooo freaking well.
Mila too is a strong independent FMC who gives what she gets and her and convict slid together so well, their chemistry and their relationship development kept me hooked.
Once again Jolie delivers a packed out plot with a heavy dose of romance and spice.
And I loved getting to catch up with some of the og characters from deadwater.

Cannot wait to see where this series goes.

[Eliana Navarro · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐ 3/5 🌶️
It was great to return to the Skeleton Crew's universe. I enjoyed seeing the whole gang make an appearance. I loved Convict with all my heart from the very first minute, even though I hated him with equal passion after the events of Arran's Obsession (the name Roscoe didn't help either xD).
I already know that I'm going to like the next characters. I'm particularly intrigued by Tyler and Dixie, but also excited about Kane and Lovelyn.

[Nix · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

ARC read. With spoilers **

It’s been a long while since I finished the body count series so experiencing this through Convicts amnesia was genius. I was remembering details of the plot along side convict and in a way that I hated him for chasing Gen in the game to having a soft spot for him when it came to Mila. I wish Mila would wise up to the truth around her instead of her blind loyalty to family who didn’t even treat her as family but I know that will come with time.

Convicts spice with Mila was delicious but not nearly enough n my opinion, giving Mila that stress relief and safe space to let go of her inhibitions was very hot and we need a lot more of it.

Im itching for more of the story and what happens to Dixie and will be drooling at the bit for the next ARC.

This series is so complex and non cliche surprises and twists. I appreciate how each flows around each other and gives you the updates you want without taking away from the main characters.

[Kaitlyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

[Lexi Burgess · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ 4/5 🌶️ 4/5
The new series following on from Body Count series and it delivered! It was a little bit confusing in parts but it all came together in the end. Love my dark romances mixed in with kink so I love the exhibition parts of it.

[Ebony-Jade Leat · Rating 5 out of 5]

OBSESSED

Another book knocked out of the park by the Queen Jolie Vines.

Her books hit hard every single time and after devouring the body Count series I was on the end of my chair waiting for Convicts story and let me just say as always girllll you did not disappoint.
Convicts story plus murder mystery as well as frequent pop ins from our favourite body Count stars *chefs kiss*

You not only got me gripping my chair in anticipation for the next books in the series but dragging my husband upstairs after reading the spice that truly had me sweating and tingling in all the right places.

. 5 Stars 🌟

[Sara Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I was one of the ones who won the chance to read Convict’s Game early!! My first ARC read. Let me tell you, it did NOT disappoint!!! His story is by far one of my favorites!! Jolie, you’re a genius!!! His story tugs on your heartstrings. It was wonderful to see him shine and become the hero. The banter between he and Mila was to die for!! I cannot wait for the next book. I didn’t think the Body Count books good be topped, but I stand corrected. Thank you for giving us our unsung hero in Convict aka Roscoe 💜

[Christina Pettit · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW. Absolutely loved reading about Convict and Mila. Convict is quite the dirty talker. 🔥

I really enjoyed all the little callbacks to the earlier books and characters. The way the story dug into the past was such a great touch. Gave me even more love for the characters.

Also, the Skeleton Girls Detective Agency? I’m obsessed with how their relationship keeps growing. This girl gang supporting each other is so awesome. The mystery that’s being set up in book 1 is interesting and definitely has me excited for the next two! Can’t wait for Kane’s Prey!

[Brooke Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like bad boys with equally capable and bad in their own way women with a mystery to solve and sexy scenes to crave you have come to the right place.

I was lucky enough to win an ARC and couldn't wait to read this story. I am gutted. I am also distraught that it ends on a cliffhanger and I have to wait for the next book 😭.

If you've read the Body Count series already then you know why this story was so important. If you haven't read it yet, that's okay too because this story stands on its own. I do highly recommend reading those too just because they are as incredible as this story is.

Now if you've read the Body Count series already I feel obligated to tell you that Dixie's story continues, and we get closer to understanding what happened to her in Riordan's Revenge. We also meet characters that unknowingly give us background info on her and while she's not the FMC in any of the books so far, she is a main character and her story weaves it's way through each book.

[Zoe Rudich · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25/5 stars
3/5 spice

Probably the best written book by Vines I’ve read so far.
I have read Vines' other books that are in the same universe as this series and features some of those characters. She can write the dark, seedy, England damp weather vibes very well. There's just never enough structure in the book for me. I feel like things are sometimes rushed or omitted in a way that leaves me filling in larger gaps than I should have to.
I know as the series continues more of those gaps will fill in but it's a bit annoying starting out like that.
This novel was quick to get through and introduced us to some familiar faces we've seen in the past but were never given a full story about it. Still working through murders and lots of mystery surrounding their town, gang, and club it has a good balance of action with the plot as well as a good and heavy dose of spice.
I'll say it again, this was probably one of Vines' best works as the misspellings were minimal, the cohesion of the plot was rather smooth, and she paced the book over all very well. It felt like she's learned from her past mistakes or maybe she just got a better editor.

I'm excited to read the next one in the Skeleton Crew series, I can only hope things continue to move is an upward trajection.

[Leonie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5 stars

I sadly didn´t love this as much as I wanted to love this. And I hate that I didn´t because Jolie Vines is my queen but here we are, honest review as always. For me it was just too insta-lovey and it felt like something I had already read before in one of her other books, so the tension, slow burn and heartbreak factor I normally devour in her books wasn´t there for me. I´m sure the insta-love baddies would enjoy this tho!

[Jessie The Great · Rating 5 out of 5]

As this was an ARC, please proceed with caution. I don't think I spoiled anything, but just in case. Also, while you don't have to read the Body Count series, it adds so much context for the events leading up to this series.

I was so excited for this series and this first installment did not disappoint. If you loved Arran's Obsession, hold onto your butts, friends, you're in for a ride! We pick back up where we left off in Riordan's Revenge - from Convict's POV. Or at that time, John Doe's POV. After having a church burn and fall down around him, somehow (we didn't find out how) he was able to find himself at a hospital. Detective D!ckhead knew, because of course that barnacle would know where he is... Opting not to tell the Skeleton Crew that Convict was safe in the hospital for a month. Thankfully, Dixie found him by accident. Con obviously has a case of amnesia, though he gets things back intermittently.

Convict welcomed back into the Crew as family, while Arran is on his honeymoon, and is thrown into a monitoring job - which is where we find out two things: 1) his package works and 2) He found the new subject of his obsession. Hello Mila - A beautiful woman in danger of being trafficked. It's giving Arran and Genevieve - even with a side of brother imprisonment 🤣. We gotta have all the hits.



So this is a new mystery. Riordan is no longer being stalked but going back to their roots, the Skeleton Crew is investigating more trafficking concerns. Tyler is playing a bigger part in these stories (which I'm excited about and hold out hope for him and Dixie 🤞). The mystery engages the Skeleton Girls Detective Agency - and they have t-shirts now - as well as two new members! Convict starts off strong by immediately repeating past mistakes, however, I think it'll work out for him this time. Everyone's a bit more understanding nowadays, because of love or whatever.

Anywho, Cassie's back and as bada$s as ever. I love her and her unhinged notions. We get more POVs this time around and get to see a bit of Dixie's mindset - until she disappears. How she doesn't have a tracker in her butt already, I have no idea. Come ON Tyler, you've been around Shade long enough to understand that you track those who you like. *please please please let Dixie and Tyler get together*.



I very much enjoyed this book. I'm excited for Kane's Prey. Kane is a new character for this series, but I'm 99% sure who he gets to chase down and claim. This book ended on a rough cliffhanger in that matter. This book had the feel of the Dark Island Scots Series. Arran won't be jazzed about it, but maybe we'll get to see our buddies from that series again. This one was spicy. Make sure to check your triggers, because there are cases of somno, birth control tampering, noncon/dubcon, etc. Convict was super swoony and I loved his POV in this story. Mila was such a sweet/sassy FMC. It was a good match.

Tropes & Themes:
💀 Corporate Princess x Street King
💀 A deal with a delicious devil
💀 Dangerous games (the chasing kind plus more)
💀 Cute AF gangster hero with amnesia
💀 Obsessive love, rough play, and handcuff action
💀 Found family, secrets, and a deadly inheritance
💀 Skeleton Girls Detective Agency is reactivated

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I won an ARC through Facebook - Thanks Liv and Jolie - but that didn't affect my rating of this story

[BookRaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review!

I won this arc from @lover.ofbooks80 on instagram September 7th.
As this was a prize from her giveaway, I am not required to make a review. But it was greatly appreciated. And who am I to not make a review, when I am so lucky to win an ARC and be able to read the book before everybody else.

With that said, this review is therefore of my own free will and 100% my own thoughts and feelings.

Also… possible spoiler alert. Though I’ve tried to keep it spoiler free.
Now that we have that out of the way, let’s get started. Shall we?

Convict’s Game by Jolie Vines
5/5 stars – 4/5 chilis
Genre: Dark Romance, suspense, Crime
Tropes: Close/forced proximity - He falls first - Corporate Princess x Street King - Dangerous games (the chasing kind plus more) - Cute AF gangster hero with amnesia - Obsessive love, rough play, and handcuff action - Found family, secrets, and a deadly inheritance - A murder mystery to solve (with clues)

I would strongly advice anyone who wants to read this, who hasn’t already read the Body Count series, to go start there. There are characters and story plot that comes from that series and continues into this. Some characters from the previous series step up and become an important part of the future story.
That, and also, the Body Count series is just amazing!

Aaaanywho… Now this is a story all about how, Convict’s life got flipped turned upside down.
And I'd like to take a minute, just sit right there, I'll tell you how he became the street king of a town called Deadwater.

Joke aside. It is no secret, that I love the men of Deadwater. And convict is no exception. I loved him from the first time he appeared on page, and now I just have the story to prove why.

We first meet Convict in Arran’s Obsession where he did some questionable things, that lead to conflict with his crew. And we last see him in Riordan’s revenge, where he’s left with amnesia and no recollection about who he is and where he’s from.
Now he’s back. Still not remembering anything, but faith and small pieces one by one, brings him closer and closer back to who he was.
And let me tell you… Roscoe “Convict” Locke is a force to be reckoned with. So buckle up, hold on tight, and prepare for a wild ride, while you fall in love with yet another of Jolie Vine’s men.

Emilia “Mila” Marchant, is a sweetheart who is willing to go through great lengths to get what se need and fight for what she believes in. Even if that means putting herself in danger, and to make a deal with the devil. A charming handsome devil, with amnesia, a skull bandana and a drive that makes him keep on going. No matter what.
Together they form an unconventional team to try and fix Convict’s amnesia and Mila’s problem. And we’re along for the ride.

I can’t get enough of these characters. Especially Convict’s smart mouth, great humor and possessive nature.
Also loving that we get both new characters and more of the old ones. (Again, read Body Count if you havent already)

I’m in love.

The world building just keeps on building. Adding layers to an already amazing world. And Jolie manages to drop in characters and happenings throughout the story, that adds to the world and gives way to new books. And she does so in the most wonderful way, that doesn’t overcrowd the original story.

All in all, this might be my new favorite book of the Deadwater universe.

[Reese · Rating 5 out of 5]

I FUCKING LOVED THIS. I had the BEST time reading this and I never wanted it to end, I was completely consumed by this book - AGAIN THE MYSTERIES, THE MURDERS, THE ROMANCE - its all so perfectly executed
In the previous books, I was always hesitant with Convict, I didn't really like him BUT MY GOD DID I EVER BECOME OBSESSED WITH HIM.

Convict is so many things, especially a lost boy and I fell in love with him immediately. The way he was so lost, not knowing who he even was broke my heart. He woke up alone, assumed no one was even looking for him but the relief and emotions he had when he realized he was wanted was so big - he couldn't remember a single thing and that was heartbreaking. Convict was determined to figure out who he was BUT WHEN HE FIRST SAW MILA - HE BECAME EVEN MORE DETERMINED TO GET HER "You're coming home with me" LIKE PLEASE IT WAS SO FUCKING CUTE. Mans wakes up from a coma and remembers nothing about himself but decides he wants Mila immediately after seeing her - LOVE IT. Convict felt peace with her, found such a connection that he knew he wanted her and only her. It was so cute and Convict was so fucking funny, the things that he would say had me giggling. I really fucking loved everything about him, he cares so deeply for his family and he would do anything for them - he wanted to know who he was but he was also terrified of the truth and that really did weigh him down but he had so much love and support that he was able to overcome it all. Convict is the best, he is so kind, caring, funny, loyal, and so so so HOTTTTTT - I fucking loved him

I absolutely loved Mila - she is so fucking cute. From the first moment she met Convict, she deemed him her lost boy and it was so fucking cute - she cared deeply about him and wanted to help. The way that Mila put herself in a dangerous situation just to help others really shows how big her heart is, she just wanted to save her grandfathers legacy and help others. Mila cares so deeply and would do anything for anyone - she was just as determined to help Convict as he was with her. She wanted him to find himself while also being scared that he would fall out of love with her - LIKE TELL ME THAT ISNT JUST THE CUTEST THING EVER. Mila was determined in so many ways, she wanted to help Convict, figure out the murder, and solve what was going on with her family. Gods I loved her, she was just so cute and cared about Convict in all the ways he needed

I loved Convict and Mila's relationship - THEY WERE SO FUCKING CUTE AND SO SO SO HOT. They cared so deeply about each other and would do anything for one another. Convict and Mila helped each other in the ways that they each needed AND I LOVED IT. I am more that obsessed with Convict and Mila - This was just what I needed but I am so sad its over, everything about these books consumes me

I CANT WAIT FOR KANE AND LOVELYN AND DIXIE AND TYLER - like please I need them now