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The CEO
I write obituaries. He delivers them.
I never meant to photograph that secret meeting.
Never meant to catch the attention of Chicago's most dangerous man.
But Damien Knox has been watching me, waiting for me, orchestrating my fall into his world of power and corruption with calculated precision.
By day, he's the untouchable CEO.
By night, he rules a criminal empire through blood and fear.
And now he wants me—to corrupt me, to possess me, to make me his dark queen.
The deeper I dig into the mysterious deaths surrounding his business empire, the more I crave the dangerous games he plays.
But when I discover his ultimate manipulation—I run.
It's too late though.
The darkness he awakened burns in my veins, calling me back to his deadly garden estate: Eden.
I only have two choices: reject the monster who orchestrated my corruption, or embrace the wicked destiny he crafted for me.
Some love stories are written in blood.
Ours is written in obituaries.
This is book 1 in the brand new dark series: Shadowed Sins. Get ready to dive into a dark world of corruption, seduction and morally gray characters. This twisted retelling of Eve and the Serpent contains unbridled heat and themes of murder/vigilante justice.
I never meant to photograph that secret meeting.
Never meant to catch the attention of Chicago's most dangerous man.
But Damien Knox has been watching me, waiting for me, orchestrating my fall into his world of power and corruption with calculated precision.
By day, he's the untouchable CEO.
By night, he rules a criminal empire through blood and fear.
And now he wants me—to corrupt me, to possess me, to make me his dark queen.
The deeper I dig into the mysterious deaths surrounding his business empire, the more I crave the dangerous games he plays.
But when I discover his ultimate manipulation—I run.
It's too late though.
The darkness he awakened burns in my veins, calling me back to his deadly garden estate: Eden.
I only have two choices: reject the monster who orchestrated my corruption, or embrace the wicked destiny he crafted for me.
Some love stories are written in blood.
Ours is written in obituaries.
This is book 1 in the brand new dark series: Shadowed Sins. Get ready to dive into a dark world of corruption, seduction and morally gray characters. This twisted retelling of Eve and the Serpent contains unbridled heat and themes of murder/vigilante justice.
590 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2025
86 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Winter
123 books2,160 followersAlexis Winter is a contemporary romance author who loves to share her steamy stories with the world. She specializes in sexy billionaires, cocky alphas, brooding bad boys and the women they love.
If you love to curl up with a good romance book you will certainly enjoy her work. Whether it's a story about an innocent young woman learning about the world or a sassy and fierce heroine who knows what she wants you're sure to enjoy the happily ever afters she provides.
When Alexis isn't writing away furiously, you can find her exploring the Rocky Mountains, traveling, enjoying a glass of wine or petting a cat.
You can find her books on Amazon.
If you love to curl up with a good romance book you will certainly enjoy her work. Whether it's a story about an innocent young woman learning about the world or a sassy and fierce heroine who knows what she wants you're sure to enjoy the happily ever afters she provides.
When Alexis isn't writing away furiously, you can find her exploring the Rocky Mountains, traveling, enjoying a glass of wine or petting a cat.
You can find her books on Amazon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 23, 2025
Actual rating: 4,25 stars
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I wanted more. I wanted all of him, even the darkness . . . especially the darkness.
- The CEO (Shadowed Sins #1), 41.00%
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It was starting well. Slow but full of world building at the beginning. I didn't mind at all with the slow burn. But I felt like the ending was too rushed and lacked details, not like the first half of the book. There were so many time gaps within the story. Usually, I don't mind, but in this book, it was significant to ignore because it affected my reading journey enjoyment and the story itself.
I also wished the author introduced more about the other members of The Shadow, not just passing names. Eve and even Damien only had little interaction with the other members. I couldn't invest in other members because they didn't get a proper introduction. Exception for Foster, but it was also not enough.
---
And despite every warning, every red flag, every single instinct for self-preservation . . . I find myself leaning into his touch, curious to discover what darkness waits at the center of Damien’s world.
- The CEO (Shadowed Sins #1), 32.00%
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Another missing point for me is that there were not enough descriptions of how Damien and Eve navigated their interactions in public. Damien was an important public figure, but the story lacked in how he and Eve presented themselves in public eyes.
Yet, I would definitely read the second book even though I have no idea who The Heiress is.
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Eve Thorne isn’t just another faceless pawn in my game. She’s the queen I’ve been patiently waiting for.
- The CEO (Shadowed Sins #1), 31.00%
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Damien was almost perfect for me. He was so manipulative, obsessed with Eve, and morally grey. I loved him so much. Eve was also likeable kind of FMC. Their inner monologue were kinda dragging but they weren't bothering me.
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I wanted more. I wanted all of him, even the darkness . . . especially the darkness.
- The CEO (Shadowed Sins #1), 41.00%
---
It was starting well. Slow but full of world building at the beginning. I didn't mind at all with the slow burn. But I felt like the ending was too rushed and lacked details, not like the first half of the book. There were so many time gaps within the story. Usually, I don't mind, but in this book, it was significant to ignore because it affected my reading journey enjoyment and the story itself.
I also wished the author introduced more about the other members of The Shadow, not just passing names. Eve and even Damien only had little interaction with the other members. I couldn't invest in other members because they didn't get a proper introduction. Exception for Foster, but it was also not enough.
---
And despite every warning, every red flag, every single instinct for self-preservation . . . I find myself leaning into his touch, curious to discover what darkness waits at the center of Damien’s world.
- The CEO (Shadowed Sins #1), 32.00%
---
Another missing point for me is that there were not enough descriptions of how Damien and Eve navigated their interactions in public. Damien was an important public figure, but the story lacked in how he and Eve presented themselves in public eyes.
Yet, I would definitely read the second book even though I have no idea who The Heiress is.
---
Eve Thorne isn’t just another faceless pawn in my game. She’s the queen I’ve been patiently waiting for.
- The CEO (Shadowed Sins #1), 31.00%
---
Damien was almost perfect for me. He was so manipulative, obsessed with Eve, and morally grey. I loved him so much. Eve was also likeable kind of FMC. Their inner monologue were kinda dragging but they weren't bothering me.
October 2, 2025
DNF, might come back to it but it really does not keep my attention at all.
May 20, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I need to preface this by saying I have enjoyed reading author Alexis Winter books over the years. So hearing that she would be releasing another Dark Romance, I was looking forward to it. Especially after having read and loved her previous one No Redemption.
There is no denying that the story The CEO did have its moments.
And that came from seeing the dynamic between the characters Evelina ‘Eve’ Thorne and Damien Knox, and the way author Alexis had it play out within the narrative.
Eve and Damien had me intrigued given that though they seemed to be the complete opposites.
Author Alexis proved otherwise to be the case the further into the story you delved. Through the exploration we see the similarities they shared, particularly through the unraveling of Eve’s layers. Something Damien seemed to help pull out of her.
Since this was the first book in the series, it meant there was more to the story than just Eve and Damien.
From laying down the foundation that needed to be set out, it allowed us to explore and understand the backstory and history of The Shadows, a vigilante justice team.
Whilst simultaneously laying down the groundwork from the bits and pieces of some of the members in the form of secondary characters for their books to come from Shadowed Sins series later on.
When it came to The CEO, unfortunately it wasn’t what I expected it to be in being a bit of a let down.
For me the thing that deterred me with constantly taking breaks was the wordiness of the book.
It just seemed to be too much in my opinion.
Whether it was all the background information stated and shared or hearing both Damien and Eve’s internal monologues.
The words kept on coming with no excitement or action for quite some time, causing the story to feel at a standstill considering the non existent movement IMO.
Thus causing my attention to wane a lot and the story not clicking until around after 40%.
In the end, The CEO may have been a decent read for me.
But that won’t stop me from continuing on with the Shadowed Sins series, since I am intrigued by some of the characters and wanting to know what their story will be.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I need to preface this by saying I have enjoyed reading author Alexis Winter books over the years. So hearing that she would be releasing another Dark Romance, I was looking forward to it. Especially after having read and loved her previous one No Redemption.
There is no denying that the story The CEO did have its moments.
And that came from seeing the dynamic between the characters Evelina ‘Eve’ Thorne and Damien Knox, and the way author Alexis had it play out within the narrative.
Eve and Damien had me intrigued given that though they seemed to be the complete opposites.
Author Alexis proved otherwise to be the case the further into the story you delved. Through the exploration we see the similarities they shared, particularly through the unraveling of Eve’s layers. Something Damien seemed to help pull out of her.
Since this was the first book in the series, it meant there was more to the story than just Eve and Damien.
From laying down the foundation that needed to be set out, it allowed us to explore and understand the backstory and history of The Shadows, a vigilante justice team.
Whilst simultaneously laying down the groundwork from the bits and pieces of some of the members in the form of secondary characters for their books to come from Shadowed Sins series later on.
When it came to The CEO, unfortunately it wasn’t what I expected it to be in being a bit of a let down.
For me the thing that deterred me with constantly taking breaks was the wordiness of the book.
It just seemed to be too much in my opinion.
Whether it was all the background information stated and shared or hearing both Damien and Eve’s internal monologues.
The words kept on coming with no excitement or action for quite some time, causing the story to feel at a standstill considering the non existent movement IMO.
Thus causing my attention to wane a lot and the story not clicking until around after 40%.
In the end, The CEO may have been a decent read for me.
But that won’t stop me from continuing on with the Shadowed Sins series, since I am intrigued by some of the characters and wanting to know what their story will be.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2025
I have mixed feelings about this one, but ultimately it just fell a little short.
The writing was enthralling to start, and I was easily sucked in to the mystery and intrigue surrounding the main characters, Damian and Eve… yet, at just over half way I was becoming increasingly desperate for the action to kick off and the story line to start blossoming— unfortunately the next half of the book didn’t deliver for me.
When I give 3 stars for this one, know I’m likely being harsh and I seriously contemplated 4, because the writing really WAS that good with how it seamlessly sucked me into the first half of the story— when I say I couldn’t put it down… I mean that. The characters and storyline had me ensnared, though in my opinion it failed to launch after that half way mark.
I feel there was the perfect amount of plot and black story achieved by mid book, and I just wanted more— I personally just wanted the goodies at this point and was disappointed when it seemed to continue with the unnecessary plot setting past this point.
Though, much like art, reading is unique to each person’s perspective— what doesn’t work for me, might be the next persons masterpiece.
This has so much merit, this wasn’t bad writing by any means… catching and enthralling my attention can be difficult, as I seem to have a three second attention span and generally know within the first few chapters if a book is going to be worth it to me…
This one had nailed down my attention, it just failed to fully keep it. I did finish and appreciated the story— I hysterical wanted more.
The writing was enthralling to start, and I was easily sucked in to the mystery and intrigue surrounding the main characters, Damian and Eve… yet, at just over half way I was becoming increasingly desperate for the action to kick off and the story line to start blossoming— unfortunately the next half of the book didn’t deliver for me.
When I give 3 stars for this one, know I’m likely being harsh and I seriously contemplated 4, because the writing really WAS that good with how it seamlessly sucked me into the first half of the story— when I say I couldn’t put it down… I mean that. The characters and storyline had me ensnared, though in my opinion it failed to launch after that half way mark.
I feel there was the perfect amount of plot and black story achieved by mid book, and I just wanted more— I personally just wanted the goodies at this point and was disappointed when it seemed to continue with the unnecessary plot setting past this point.
Though, much like art, reading is unique to each person’s perspective— what doesn’t work for me, might be the next persons masterpiece.
This has so much merit, this wasn’t bad writing by any means… catching and enthralling my attention can be difficult, as I seem to have a three second attention span and generally know within the first few chapters if a book is going to be worth it to me…
This one had nailed down my attention, it just failed to fully keep it. I did finish and appreciated the story— I hysterical wanted more.
May 21, 2025
WOW!!!
The CEO is indeed a very dark one compare to the authors other books and it's amazing. I enjoyed reading this.
Damien and Eve's chemistry and connections is electric . The book is filled with secrets, dangers and lots of hidden agendas and attractions.
This is a must read. I recommend it
I received an ARC for my honest voluntary review
The CEO is indeed a very dark one compare to the authors other books and it's amazing. I enjoyed reading this.
Damien and Eve's chemistry and connections is electric . The book is filled with secrets, dangers and lots of hidden agendas and attractions.
This is a must read. I recommend it
I received an ARC for my honest voluntary review
May 7, 2025
Damien is definitely a intense male lead for sure. But definitely in a positive way in his morally gray ways 😅😅 Eve’s past is definitely sad. Losing her parents together. But I’m glad she found her inner strength with Damien by her side instead of just living day by day without really living. This is definitely a mafia vibes book without being mafia and also DomSub parts in this book. As always another 5 star read by Ms Winter
🌶️🌶️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 17, 2025
I've been an Alexis Winter reader for quite a while now, and while dark romance isn't generally my thing I had enjoyed No Redemption and figured I'd check out The CEO, the first in a series of dark romances by Alexis.
Now like I said, dark romance- not really my thing. I tend to only read it on occasion when the the mood strikes or book-tok gets the better of me, so take any of my opinions with a grain of salt, because I will never "yuck someone else's yum" but this book didn't work for me.
If you are not a typical dark romance lover or you have some things that are just general triggers for you- I do highly suggest checking out the TW's Alexis has shared. There is A LOT of descriptive violence on page that I definitely had a few shutters over.
But moving on to the story itself. The CEO is this twisted and tortured romance between Eve Thorne, a young obituary writer with a penchant for investigation and justice and morally grey billionaire Damion Knox. These two have been circling around each other for 8 years without Eve's knowledge when Damion sets motion to bring her into the fold of his vigilante justice team The Shadows. Only Damion can't help but notice that Eve effects him in ways that he hasn't felt before and it goes far beyond just this idea of curiosity or attraction.
Now the story itself is decent. Obviously with it being the first in a series there was a lot of backstory and groundwork to lay for the group called The Shadows. Both Damion's and Eve's personal backstory was a bit tragic and it was interesting to see this kind of cat and mouse game that Damion was playing while allowing Eve to think she had the upper hand. I never really felt like I understood Eve though. She was so determined to seek justice the way her parents did- to expose the less than palatable side of Damion. But then she barely batted an eye when witnessing the more callous side of his life until it tied to her. Beyond all the morally grey moments and the darker more gruesome side of Damion's world- I didn't feel like the romance between these two was fully formed like I had hoped. Initially there was the power dynamic game where Damion was curious and Eve was weary then they moved into this physical obsession with each other. Yes- this part is hot and intense but there wasn't that emotional connection. Then suddenly Damion was more infatuated with Eve and ready to basically burn down his world if it made her happy. progression just felt drastic and a bit surface level for me.
I'm not sure if I will continue this series or not- but again- cannot stress this enough- this genre just very hit or miss for me personally and with this particular book being fairly graphic it was a little more than I like- but if more graphic dark romance is your jam- you'll probably love this book.
Now like I said, dark romance- not really my thing. I tend to only read it on occasion when the the mood strikes or book-tok gets the better of me, so take any of my opinions with a grain of salt, because I will never "yuck someone else's yum" but this book didn't work for me.
If you are not a typical dark romance lover or you have some things that are just general triggers for you- I do highly suggest checking out the TW's Alexis has shared. There is A LOT of descriptive violence on page that I definitely had a few shutters over.
But moving on to the story itself. The CEO is this twisted and tortured romance between Eve Thorne, a young obituary writer with a penchant for investigation and justice and morally grey billionaire Damion Knox. These two have been circling around each other for 8 years without Eve's knowledge when Damion sets motion to bring her into the fold of his vigilante justice team The Shadows. Only Damion can't help but notice that Eve effects him in ways that he hasn't felt before and it goes far beyond just this idea of curiosity or attraction.
Now the story itself is decent. Obviously with it being the first in a series there was a lot of backstory and groundwork to lay for the group called The Shadows. Both Damion's and Eve's personal backstory was a bit tragic and it was interesting to see this kind of cat and mouse game that Damion was playing while allowing Eve to think she had the upper hand. I never really felt like I understood Eve though. She was so determined to seek justice the way her parents did- to expose the less than palatable side of Damion. But then she barely batted an eye when witnessing the more callous side of his life until it tied to her. Beyond all the morally grey moments and the darker more gruesome side of Damion's world- I didn't feel like the romance between these two was fully formed like I had hoped. Initially there was the power dynamic game where Damion was curious and Eve was weary then they moved into this physical obsession with each other. Yes- this part is hot and intense but there wasn't that emotional connection. Then suddenly Damion was more infatuated with Eve and ready to basically burn down his world if it made her happy. progression just felt drastic and a bit surface level for me.
I'm not sure if I will continue this series or not- but again- cannot stress this enough- this genre just very hit or miss for me personally and with this particular book being fairly graphic it was a little more than I like- but if more graphic dark romance is your jam- you'll probably love this book.
June 22, 2025
Gripping, Exhilarating & A Must Read!
Eve leads a boring life writing up obituaries for the Chicago Tribune but her real passion is photography & would rather do the investigative activities job as a journalist; something more exciting with the adrenaline rush kind of life. While walking in a reserve taking photos of nature, she comes upon Damien Knox & overhears his threat given to another man. He’s a billionaire, CEO of Knox Industries where people see his charitable side. What no one sees or lives to talk about, he’s also the CEO for a secret organization called, “The Shadows”.
Unbeknownst to her, he’s been watching her for the past 8 yrs since her parents were killed in an auto accident. Feeling she would be an asset to join The Shadows, getting the justice served to those companies & people who are corrupt, she’s fallen into his dark secret world realizing there’s no escaping it. He manipulates her along the way until it’s time to introduce her to The Shadows, what it represents, what they do, their real reasons for their existence & why it’s his passion in life. She sees the darker side of injustice, witnessing him slowly torturing someone, feeling excitement & an adrenaline rush. This has opened a part of her life she’s been suppressing. Eve had been warned to stay away not wanting her to see his dark side but she’s so drawn to him, wanting to know everything about him. She’s drawn to him & his beliefs.
The time arrives when he gives her the truth about his life & the connection to her parents’ death, where these confessions will either set her free or bind them together. Once he does tell her, there’s no going back to tell the world about his connection to The Shadows.
The CEO is not even close to the normal cut-out office romance. Literally a gripping, chilling, nail-biting thriller story! This novel leaves me breathless & wanting more of the inner workings of The Shadows. What’s in store for us in Book 2 of The Shadowed Sins series? If the rest of the series is anything like this book, it’s going to be a smashing success!
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eve leads a boring life writing up obituaries for the Chicago Tribune but her real passion is photography & would rather do the investigative activities job as a journalist; something more exciting with the adrenaline rush kind of life. While walking in a reserve taking photos of nature, she comes upon Damien Knox & overhears his threat given to another man. He’s a billionaire, CEO of Knox Industries where people see his charitable side. What no one sees or lives to talk about, he’s also the CEO for a secret organization called, “The Shadows”.
Unbeknownst to her, he’s been watching her for the past 8 yrs since her parents were killed in an auto accident. Feeling she would be an asset to join The Shadows, getting the justice served to those companies & people who are corrupt, she’s fallen into his dark secret world realizing there’s no escaping it. He manipulates her along the way until it’s time to introduce her to The Shadows, what it represents, what they do, their real reasons for their existence & why it’s his passion in life. She sees the darker side of injustice, witnessing him slowly torturing someone, feeling excitement & an adrenaline rush. This has opened a part of her life she’s been suppressing. Eve had been warned to stay away not wanting her to see his dark side but she’s so drawn to him, wanting to know everything about him. She’s drawn to him & his beliefs.
The time arrives when he gives her the truth about his life & the connection to her parents’ death, where these confessions will either set her free or bind them together. Once he does tell her, there’s no going back to tell the world about his connection to The Shadows.
The CEO is not even close to the normal cut-out office romance. Literally a gripping, chilling, nail-biting thriller story! This novel leaves me breathless & wanting more of the inner workings of The Shadows. What’s in store for us in Book 2 of The Shadowed Sins series? If the rest of the series is anything like this book, it’s going to be a smashing success!
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 7, 2025
Another page turner from Alexis Winter, this is a powerful, dark story with quite a few triggers.
When Damian Knox watched Eve Thorne, the lonely, grieving young girl at the funeral of her parents the feelings that he had he was unable to interpret but he knew that he would never forger her, her beautiful face would haunt him.
To all the world Damian Knox was a wealthy CEO of the company that his mentor had started, the same mentor who had rescued him from a brutal, tragic start in life but beneath his philanthropy Damian was Chicago's most ruthless, dangerous man.
Damian's obsession with Eve continued, he had her followed, he knew her every move, he knew her history but he kept his distance, that was until.......
Eve was a loner, she wrote obituaries for the local newspaper but that didn't quell Eve's curiosity, she wanted more, in her spare time she was digging into deaths, deaths that were put down to natural causes, deaths that Eve thought were suspicious, deaths that she thought led back to Damian Knox. Eve knew that she should stay well away but she kept digging until....... Eve was spotted hiding in a wood taking pictures of Damian, pictures that could destroy him and the Shadows, who were the Shadows ?
This story follows Damian as he fights to keep Eve safe, knowing that the Shadows are out for her blood, knowing that she could destroy his organization, realizing that he had been in love with her for eight years.
Eve was devastated when she learned the secrets that Damian had kept hidden from her, when his dark side was revealed but she was helpless in his presence, she should hate him but she couldn't, the passion between them was cataclysmic, how could this end without either of them getting hurt ?
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
When Damian Knox watched Eve Thorne, the lonely, grieving young girl at the funeral of her parents the feelings that he had he was unable to interpret but he knew that he would never forger her, her beautiful face would haunt him.
To all the world Damian Knox was a wealthy CEO of the company that his mentor had started, the same mentor who had rescued him from a brutal, tragic start in life but beneath his philanthropy Damian was Chicago's most ruthless, dangerous man.
Damian's obsession with Eve continued, he had her followed, he knew her every move, he knew her history but he kept his distance, that was until.......
Eve was a loner, she wrote obituaries for the local newspaper but that didn't quell Eve's curiosity, she wanted more, in her spare time she was digging into deaths, deaths that were put down to natural causes, deaths that Eve thought were suspicious, deaths that she thought led back to Damian Knox. Eve knew that she should stay well away but she kept digging until....... Eve was spotted hiding in a wood taking pictures of Damian, pictures that could destroy him and the Shadows, who were the Shadows ?
This story follows Damian as he fights to keep Eve safe, knowing that the Shadows are out for her blood, knowing that she could destroy his organization, realizing that he had been in love with her for eight years.
Eve was devastated when she learned the secrets that Damian had kept hidden from her, when his dark side was revealed but she was helpless in his presence, she should hate him but she couldn't, the passion between them was cataclysmic, how could this end without either of them getting hurt ?
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
June 2, 2025
Evelina Thorne’s parents died eight years ago. Damien Knox’s mentor, Victor Messini, was driving drunk and killed them. Damien, as his second in command, covered up the crime so Victor would not be charged. It is the one decision that haunts him still to this day. Damien Knox is the CEO for his company but also rules a criminal empire called The Shadows. They deal with serving justice when the authorities can’t. He is sitting in his car in a forest preserve thinking about the day Eve buried her parents. He is looking at the picture that he took of her that day and rubbing his chest where he has her name tattooed. He sees a woman taking pictures of wildflowers around the pond. As she gets closer, he realizes that it is Eve. He vows that he will get her to be his within the next six months.
Eve got a major in English and writes obituaries for the Chicago Tribune. Her father was a photojournalist and her mother was an investigative journalist. Her father’s old Nikon camera and her mother’s green scarf are two of her most treasured possessions. Eve is back at her favorite forest preserve taking pictures. She hears voices and sees Damien Knox talking to a man in a very threatening tone. She snaps pictures of Damien as she is hiding and waiting for him to leave. Her mom’s green scarf gets tangled in the bushes by the wind. Eve is afraid that Damien saw her.
This story was quite a mess with Damien and Eve in the middle of it all. They both were dealing with feelings and emotions that they did not understand. Their pasts and present situations are heading toward each other. It was a dark story that immediately drew me in. I can’t wait for more stories in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eve got a major in English and writes obituaries for the Chicago Tribune. Her father was a photojournalist and her mother was an investigative journalist. Her father’s old Nikon camera and her mother’s green scarf are two of her most treasured possessions. Eve is back at her favorite forest preserve taking pictures. She hears voices and sees Damien Knox talking to a man in a very threatening tone. She snaps pictures of Damien as she is hiding and waiting for him to leave. Her mom’s green scarf gets tangled in the bushes by the wind. Eve is afraid that Damien saw her.
This story was quite a mess with Damien and Eve in the middle of it all. They both were dealing with feelings and emotions that they did not understand. Their pasts and present situations are heading toward each other. It was a dark story that immediately drew me in. I can’t wait for more stories in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 9, 2025
Eve writes Obituaries for a local paper, all the while hoping her editor will take one of her investigative stories seriously. She takes the small amount of joy she has in life, from the camera and memories left to her by her parents, killed 8 years previously in a car crash.
Damien Knox, a morally grey, wealthy business man, known for his hard business dealings and charitable donations.
A chance discovery of another side of Damien's "business" dealings leads Eve into investigating him and his life, unaware that he already knows her and has done for many years. Her refusal to let go of findings regarding deaths that seem to be unusual, that others consider coincidence, drag Eve into the dangerous world Damien thrives in, putting both her life and everything she ever thought she knew, in danger.
Damien, obsessed by Eve for years, now has the justification he needs to bring her into the darkness that is his life .Now he needs to find a way to protect her from this same world and the people who share it with him, who perceive Eve as the one person who can destroy everything he and the other's known as The Shadows have built and worked for.
This a fantastic read, full of obsession, twists, turns, secrets and lies. As the story unfolds and we learn the story behind Damien and his mysterious lifestyle, we can't help but be in his corner, even when we don't want to like him. This is a fantastic read Alexis as always catches our attention at page 1 and doesn't let go until the last page.
Damien Knox, a morally grey, wealthy business man, known for his hard business dealings and charitable donations.
A chance discovery of another side of Damien's "business" dealings leads Eve into investigating him and his life, unaware that he already knows her and has done for many years. Her refusal to let go of findings regarding deaths that seem to be unusual, that others consider coincidence, drag Eve into the dangerous world Damien thrives in, putting both her life and everything she ever thought she knew, in danger.
Damien, obsessed by Eve for years, now has the justification he needs to bring her into the darkness that is his life .Now he needs to find a way to protect her from this same world and the people who share it with him, who perceive Eve as the one person who can destroy everything he and the other's known as The Shadows have built and worked for.
This a fantastic read, full of obsession, twists, turns, secrets and lies. As the story unfolds and we learn the story behind Damien and his mysterious lifestyle, we can't help but be in his corner, even when we don't want to like him. This is a fantastic read Alexis as always catches our attention at page 1 and doesn't let go until the last page.
May 16, 2025
This book was so dark, it pulls you in to the undertow of this dark world, and it enveloped you in it. As the reader we get caught up, just like her, we get sucked in to his magnetism. There’s just something about him she can’t shake and can’t stay away from. She’s determined to get to the bottom of this mystery and that’s where she gets herself into some sticky situation’s. Eve is such a fantastic character. She is stubborn, defiant, but is so curious and intelligent. Determined to fight for the underdog as well as get to the truth, to find Justice. Damien is an absolute enigma. He is the all powerful all-consuming billionaire with two sides to him. Essentially you get the public persona, and then he get the private persona that man has more charisma exuding from his pores that just draws people in. But the thing you have to watch out for is there is this underlying danger that you can just pick up on. When Eve sees him for the first time, she is so enthralled. Her brain says one thing and her body says another, they were at war through the entire book. I love watching them interact because she is so witty, smart and just as like a dog with a bone it has no problem going toe to toe with him. Watching their relationship develop is absolutely delicious because it is so fascinating and so different in these layers of darkness. I love that she’s getting to see a different side of him that no one gets to see not even his closest coworkers. They literally turned each other’s worlds upside down. I love watching them fall in love.
May 18, 2025
The CEO is the first book of the author’s new Shadowed Sins series and follows MMC Damien Knox and MFC Evelina Thorne who have a past history together that only one of them is aware of.
When his drunken mentor Victor Messini killed her parents in a car accident that Damien cleaned up she became his obsession, and a dangerous one.
Eight years later and its only by chance he sees the object of his desire again while she is taking pictures in a nature preserve and the plans to finally claim her begin to form.
On a lunch break taking photos in the preserve some days later Eve comes across two men arguing and recognizes one as reclusive billionaire CEO Damien Knox.
Sensing she might have stumbled into something more career fulfilling than writing obituaries she starts snapping pictures of the altercation.
When she is almost caught it was time to run, and will later find her desire to right injustices and write real journalism dropping her into an abyss of someone else’s plans for her, Damien Knox.
Nicely written with engaging characterizations and a steamy, dark, tantalizing narrative, this was quite a journey which explodes with revelations, personal vulnerabilities, intrigue, passion, emotion, drama, and suspense within an entertaining story you can’t help becoming immersed in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When his drunken mentor Victor Messini killed her parents in a car accident that Damien cleaned up she became his obsession, and a dangerous one.
Eight years later and its only by chance he sees the object of his desire again while she is taking pictures in a nature preserve and the plans to finally claim her begin to form.
On a lunch break taking photos in the preserve some days later Eve comes across two men arguing and recognizes one as reclusive billionaire CEO Damien Knox.
Sensing she might have stumbled into something more career fulfilling than writing obituaries she starts snapping pictures of the altercation.
When she is almost caught it was time to run, and will later find her desire to right injustices and write real journalism dropping her into an abyss of someone else’s plans for her, Damien Knox.
Nicely written with engaging characterizations and a steamy, dark, tantalizing narrative, this was quite a journey which explodes with revelations, personal vulnerabilities, intrigue, passion, emotion, drama, and suspense within an entertaining story you can’t help becoming immersed in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2025
Dark romance with explicit and graphic scenes
The start of a new, very dark and graphic series. After a traumatic event when he was 9yo, Damien Knox learned under the tutelage of Victor Messini that vigilante justice is a good thing especially when going the legal route gets you nowhere. We are catapulted into Damien’s life when I figure he is roughly 40yo, give or take a few. For the past eight years he has obsessed over Evelina Thorne who is now 27yo. When circumstances bring her into his very direct orbit, Damien cannot pass up the opportunity to explore their connection. In the beginning there is more introspection and retrospection happening than action. In time we see the methodical technique that Damien employs to slowly wrangle and drag Eve into his world. The world of The Shadows: The CEO, The Vigilante, The Heiress, The Skull, The Raven, The Phantom, and The Ghost, all of whom will get their own book.
Keep in mind that this book sets the stage for the rest of the series. As this is a dark romance be aware that there are moments when graphic depictions of death or torture are shown on page. This is also a steamy read when Damien finally gets his wish. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Booksprout.
The start of a new, very dark and graphic series. After a traumatic event when he was 9yo, Damien Knox learned under the tutelage of Victor Messini that vigilante justice is a good thing especially when going the legal route gets you nowhere. We are catapulted into Damien’s life when I figure he is roughly 40yo, give or take a few. For the past eight years he has obsessed over Evelina Thorne who is now 27yo. When circumstances bring her into his very direct orbit, Damien cannot pass up the opportunity to explore their connection. In the beginning there is more introspection and retrospection happening than action. In time we see the methodical technique that Damien employs to slowly wrangle and drag Eve into his world. The world of The Shadows: The CEO, The Vigilante, The Heiress, The Skull, The Raven, The Phantom, and The Ghost, all of whom will get their own book.
Keep in mind that this book sets the stage for the rest of the series. As this is a dark romance be aware that there are moments when graphic depictions of death or torture are shown on page. This is also a steamy read when Damien finally gets his wish. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Booksprout.
May 17, 2025
Delicious! Full of Mafia vibes throughout with the dangerous aura the surrounds Damien. Enigmatic, charitable billionaire who's not afraid to do what's necessary to get things done. Then there's Eve, sharp, whitey, determined. She's captivated by him, as he is her. The more she digs into learning about him, the more danger arises. Finally, he gets his 'reason' (because, come on, he didn't REALLY need one).
Once these two are in close proximity, and closer quarters, the tension and heat definately rises. The story is gripping and keeps you sucked into their world, wanting to know what happens next. Manipulation, deciet, death... their part of his world, and now her's too. There's alot to digest as this story unfolds for them both (shes not the only one who's world has experienced a significant shift). How will this dark and twisted tale conclude? Check it out, I assure you, it's worth the suspence, and definately the time. Enjoy!!
I an grateful to have received a gift copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all📚
Once these two are in close proximity, and closer quarters, the tension and heat definately rises. The story is gripping and keeps you sucked into their world, wanting to know what happens next. Manipulation, deciet, death... their part of his world, and now her's too. There's alot to digest as this story unfolds for them both (shes not the only one who's world has experienced a significant shift). How will this dark and twisted tale conclude? Check it out, I assure you, it's worth the suspence, and definately the time. Enjoy!!
I an grateful to have received a gift copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all📚
May 27, 2025
A Story Where Love, Revenge, and Justice Collide
Who is Damien Knox? Billionaire. CEO. And something far more dangerous. He deals in a twisted kind of justice—one that blurs moral lines. Is he a villain or a hero? It’s tempting to place people into neat categories of right and wrong, but this story reminds us the world is rarely that simple.
Eve writes obituaries, but her true calling is digging up the truth. Since the tragic loss of her parents, she’s been quietly investigating cases where justice failed. When her path crosses with Damien’s, she assumes it’s by chance—but Damien has been watching her for years, ever since her parents died. Nothing about their meeting is accidental.
This is a dark, steamy romance with BDSM elements and a heavy dose of vigilante justice. The story is intense, with moments of violence that may make you flinch. But it’s also compelling and well-written. If you enjoy morally gray characters, dangerous attraction, and love stories built on power, secrets, and obsession, this one might pull you in.
Who is Damien Knox? Billionaire. CEO. And something far more dangerous. He deals in a twisted kind of justice—one that blurs moral lines. Is he a villain or a hero? It’s tempting to place people into neat categories of right and wrong, but this story reminds us the world is rarely that simple.
Eve writes obituaries, but her true calling is digging up the truth. Since the tragic loss of her parents, she’s been quietly investigating cases where justice failed. When her path crosses with Damien’s, she assumes it’s by chance—but Damien has been watching her for years, ever since her parents died. Nothing about their meeting is accidental.
This is a dark, steamy romance with BDSM elements and a heavy dose of vigilante justice. The story is intense, with moments of violence that may make you flinch. But it’s also compelling and well-written. If you enjoy morally gray characters, dangerous attraction, and love stories built on power, secrets, and obsession, this one might pull you in.
May 9, 2025
The CEO is book 1 in the Shadowed Sins series. It features Eve and Damien. Eve works at her local newspaper writing obituaries but she wants to do more investigation stories. To the public Damien is a charitable wealthy CEO of a company but behind closed doors he is also ruthless and the head of a secret group who take matters into their own hands. For 8 years Eve has been on Damiens radar and he's been watching her obsessively from a distance until she puts herself in danger by digging into Damien. So he installs himself into her life on the pretence of keeping her safe but he also wants her to be with him both relationship wise and work wise.
This is different from Alexis other work but its a fantastic read. It has great characters and is dark, packed full of drama and spice. I loved seeing Eve emerge into the person she becomes and how they fit together perfectly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is different from Alexis other work but its a fantastic read. It has great characters and is dark, packed full of drama and spice. I loved seeing Eve emerge into the person she becomes and how they fit together perfectly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2025
The CEO book one in a brand new series, a retelling of Eve and the Garden of Eden.
This is the darkest book(secret society) Alexis has written so far, but not as spicy as she usually writes, don’t get me wrong it’s spicy when it’s time to get spicy but the plot outshines the spice on this one.
I was intrigued idea of this story from the minute Alexis shared it with us. Damian Knox the protective, obsessed, dominant Alpha male, and Eve Thorne the quiet, submissive, yet strong female. The connection these to have is explosive. He’s a CEO by day, unaliver at night, she writes obituaries for a living and investigates suspicious deaths that she’s had to write obits on. Which puts her on Damien’s radar, even though she was always on his radar. Great world building characters that I can’t wait to read their stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the darkest book(secret society) Alexis has written so far, but not as spicy as she usually writes, don’t get me wrong it’s spicy when it’s time to get spicy but the plot outshines the spice on this one.
I was intrigued idea of this story from the minute Alexis shared it with us. Damian Knox the protective, obsessed, dominant Alpha male, and Eve Thorne the quiet, submissive, yet strong female. The connection these to have is explosive. He’s a CEO by day, unaliver at night, she writes obituaries for a living and investigates suspicious deaths that she’s had to write obits on. Which puts her on Damien’s radar, even though she was always on his radar. Great world building characters that I can’t wait to read their stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2025
I loved the intensity and darkness of this book. It had me so entranced with the characters of Damian and Eve and his obsession with her that has lasted for years. Damian’s complexities are immense and the pull that these two have toward each other is like a tide that sweep you away. Every word that I read just pulled me more into the vortex of Damian Knox and although you don’t want to like him there is something about him that makes you want to know everything about him and his mysterious life. And then we have beautiful, brave Eve who lost both parents and doesn’t know the connection between herself and Damian. The chemistry, the passion and the amazing story will have you hooked and devouring each line and wanting so much more of these two wonderful characters. You really need to read this book as you will not be disappointed.
I received an arc copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an arc copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 10, 2025
This is not your typical Dark Mafia story!!
At first, you think this will be the same type of Dark Mafia story; however, Alexis knows how to really develop the characters.
Damien and Eve have this give and take that makes you want to root for them all the way. There are so many twists and turns as their relationship develops, it is sometimes hard to keep straight. Damien has many sides to him, which make him complicated. Even though he needs to have ultimate control, in the end, he really wants to do good. With Eve's journalistic background, she is very inquisitive and continues to dig deeper for answers. As Eve digs, Damien helps Eve discover a side to herself she never thought to explore. As their relationship, as strange as it seems, grows, you realize what a pair they make and how well they compliment each other.
This is a new side of storytelling from Alexis Winter and I LOVE IT!!! This is a MUST read!!
At first, you think this will be the same type of Dark Mafia story; however, Alexis knows how to really develop the characters.
Damien and Eve have this give and take that makes you want to root for them all the way. There are so many twists and turns as their relationship develops, it is sometimes hard to keep straight. Damien has many sides to him, which make him complicated. Even though he needs to have ultimate control, in the end, he really wants to do good. With Eve's journalistic background, she is very inquisitive and continues to dig deeper for answers. As Eve digs, Damien helps Eve discover a side to herself she never thought to explore. As their relationship, as strange as it seems, grows, you realize what a pair they make and how well they compliment each other.
This is a new side of storytelling from Alexis Winter and I LOVE IT!!! This is a MUST read!!
September 5, 2025
Amazing
Damien and Eve's love story was so intense and exciting.
They both had very different childhoods.
Tragedy 8 years proir brought them together unknown to Eve.
She was a reporter wanting justice. He managed multi billion dollar companies. Also CEO of Shadow providing justice for untouchable criminals.
When they finally connected the fun begins.
Lots of twists and turns lots of adventures and suspense. So many intense moments, you don't know what's happening.
I enjoyed Eve's spunkiness and fearlessness. Damien's hard, strong dominant character. The love he felt for Eve so strong and passionate.
There was also his other side; justice and kindness to those wall deserved.
So detailed throughout you felt many emotions, pain experienced and enfured. Also many funny moments.
Liked how it all came together. Look forward to the Heiress's adventures!
Thank you Alexis your books are never disappointing.
Damien and Eve's love story was so intense and exciting.
They both had very different childhoods.
Tragedy 8 years proir brought them together unknown to Eve.
She was a reporter wanting justice. He managed multi billion dollar companies. Also CEO of Shadow providing justice for untouchable criminals.
When they finally connected the fun begins.
Lots of twists and turns lots of adventures and suspense. So many intense moments, you don't know what's happening.
I enjoyed Eve's spunkiness and fearlessness. Damien's hard, strong dominant character. The love he felt for Eve so strong and passionate.
There was also his other side; justice and kindness to those wall deserved.
So detailed throughout you felt many emotions, pain experienced and enfured. Also many funny moments.
Liked how it all came together. Look forward to the Heiress's adventures!
Thank you Alexis your books are never disappointing.
May 7, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶🌶
Tropes/vibes: steamy suspense, stalker vibes, dark romance, obsessive mmc, secret society, anti-hero, morally gray
This book was a little slow at the beginning but picked up shortly after. This book had action, drama and spice. This book follows Eve and Damian. Eve, an obituary writer, is a fearless and curious individual who has experienced profound loss. Damian, on the other hand, wears a mask of respectability, hiding his true nature. As their complicated relationship unfolds, secrets and manipulations come to light, threatening the balance of power. Yet, their evolution together is masterfully woven, leading them to become the individuals they were meant to be. This book was interesting but too heavy on background information and internal monologues. I would've preferred to see more on their personal and professional relationship development.
Spice: 🌶🌶
Tropes/vibes: steamy suspense, stalker vibes, dark romance, obsessive mmc, secret society, anti-hero, morally gray
This book was a little slow at the beginning but picked up shortly after. This book had action, drama and spice. This book follows Eve and Damian. Eve, an obituary writer, is a fearless and curious individual who has experienced profound loss. Damian, on the other hand, wears a mask of respectability, hiding his true nature. As their complicated relationship unfolds, secrets and manipulations come to light, threatening the balance of power. Yet, their evolution together is masterfully woven, leading them to become the individuals they were meant to be. This book was interesting but too heavy on background information and internal monologues. I would've preferred to see more on their personal and professional relationship development.
May 15, 2025
I am not used to Winter's books being so dark but this one is really dark. How far would you go to see justice served? Damien is from one world and know how far he will go. Eve fights for justice as much as an obituary writer can but she eventually has to ask herself just how far she is willing to go.
Damien and Eve's chemistry is off the charts and their connection is electric. There are a lot of similarities between the two of them and I liked how they fit together. Damien is not emotionally available and likes control in all things. Eve has a brilliant mind that finds ties between people which is valuable for her research.
There is plenty of drama, heat and justice served in this book. It isn't the usual storyline but it is an excellent read with a HEA.
Damien and Eve's chemistry is off the charts and their connection is electric. There are a lot of similarities between the two of them and I liked how they fit together. Damien is not emotionally available and likes control in all things. Eve has a brilliant mind that finds ties between people which is valuable for her research.
There is plenty of drama, heat and justice served in this book. It isn't the usual storyline but it is an excellent read with a HEA.
May 16, 2025
Damien and Eve both have tragic past. Eve losing her parents 8 years ago and leads a quiet, unassuming life. Her job is writing obituaries for newspaper and has inherited her mother and father’s love of journalism and photography. Damien’s mother was murdered by her boyfriend at 9 and he stabbed the boyfriend to death. He was found by the landlord who groomed Damien into his dark world. Damien’s mentor, drunk, hits and kills Eve’s parents and he covers the accident up but becomes obsessed with Eve and watchers her over the next 8 years manipulating her into his like. It’s a page turner, dark and what you expect from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2025
Eve writes obituaries with dreams of being taken seriously as an investigative journalist. When she uncovers something suspicious about the powerful, mysterious Damien Knox, her world flips. She has no idea he's been watching her for years. Now that she’s digging into his secrets, he’s ready to pull her into the darkness with him.
I love how flawlessly Alexis can switch up and write such morally grey characters. This book is dripping with forbidden tension, morally gray vibes, and jaw-dropping twists. Damien was an interesting character, the way that he will make you question everything while still rooting for him. And Eve was equally exciting, her past has left her as quite the loner but she changed with Damien. I loved seeing her strength come out.
I love how flawlessly Alexis can switch up and write such morally grey characters. This book is dripping with forbidden tension, morally gray vibes, and jaw-dropping twists. Damien was an interesting character, the way that he will make you question everything while still rooting for him. And Eve was equally exciting, her past has left her as quite the loner but she changed with Damien. I loved seeing her strength come out.
May 17, 2025
Damien worked his way to the top when his mentor Victor discovered him in tragic circumstances and took him under his wing, moulding him to take over his dark justice organisation. However, Damien didn't reckon on having to cover up for Victor when he orphaned Eve. Damien became obsessed with her having witnessed her grief. Eve, trying to establish herself as a journalist, starts investigating Damien not realising the danger she is putting herself in. As she becomes more aware of his activities and Damien lures her into his organisation, Eve has to overcome internal conflict before being able to move on with her life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2025
Playing the Long Game -
If you love to read romance stories about a billionaire’s obsession with a journalist, as he finds a way to bring her into his danger-filled world and also try to keep her safe from the threats against her. Just as they started getting close together, she finds out the secret he had been keeping from her for years, which caused friction between them. Luckily, they found their way to each other and created a partnership that went beyond expectations. The gripping story quickly captivates and pulls you into the story and keeps you glued to the pages until you reach the end. I highly recommend reading this phenomenal book, that you will definitely enjoy reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you love to read romance stories about a billionaire’s obsession with a journalist, as he finds a way to bring her into his danger-filled world and also try to keep her safe from the threats against her. Just as they started getting close together, she finds out the secret he had been keeping from her for years, which caused friction between them. Luckily, they found their way to each other and created a partnership that went beyond expectations. The gripping story quickly captivates and pulls you into the story and keeps you glued to the pages until you reach the end. I highly recommend reading this phenomenal book, that you will definitely enjoy reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 18, 2025
In The CEO, book 1 of the Shadowed Sins series, Eve, an obituary writer at a local newspaper, yearns to tackle investigative stories. Damien, a wealthy CEO who secretly leads a ruthless vigilante group, has been obsessively watching Eve for eight years because his mentor killed her parents in a traffic accident while driving drunk. When Eve’s digging puts her in danger, Damien steps into her life, claiming to protect her while pursuing a romantic and professional relationship with her. Great characters, sizzle, steam, action, drama, and some twists along the way, this was a great start to the Shadowed Sins series by Alexis Winter.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2025
I love me a morally gray man, and Damien definitely helped feed that addiction! His and Eve's story had me hooked from the very beginning, and it was a NEED that had me continuously flipping the pages! The action and suspense had me wanting to cry like a baby whenever I got interrupted (which felt like more than usual, but that could be because of how absorbed I was). I was practically holding my breath, waiting for the secrets to come out and wondering how Eve would deal with them. I guess you can tell that I LOVED the plot, but I also loved these characters, and the side characters that I'm sure will get a story of their own, but I also live for the spice bits and this book had me on fire! I can't wait until the next book!
May 27, 2025
This was such a great read. It was dark and utterly delicious. I liked the slow burn between Damien and Eve. You see who each person is and when they connect, it was beautiful. He is the dark and she was the light, but she also had some darkness in her. They completed and balanced each other. The connection Damien has for Eve was eight years in the making. Once he ensnared her, there was no going back. This had suspense, drama, angst, lies, secrets, and revelations. The chemistry between them when unleashed was hot, very hot. One thing I do wish was in the book was more of The Shadows. Who they are behind their personas. Since it says book 1, I am hoping they get their own stories. I do love when Alexis dives into the dark side. 😈
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