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The Contention Series #2
Dissension
Still reeling from the uncomfortable revelation that Nicholas Havenwood-Calais is hiding far more secrets than imagined, Kara finds herself struggling to stay away from the man who has been nothing but trouble for her since he so rudely and indecently entered her life.
Not only that; she’s slowly being drawn to his rival, Dietrich Bittinger, whose legal interests she now represents.
The investigation into The Room of Horror continues…and Kara finds her client under dangerous scrutiny in the process.
Trapped between two men with decades of ugly secrets, Kara struggles to keep her morality intact. The question is…how far down the rabbit hole will she go in her quest for the truth? Will she come out on the other side a better person, or will she become a new monster entirely?
In the end, Kara may find her very life at stake.
**TRIGGER This book is for sale to ADULT AUDIENCES ONLY. It contains sexually explicit scenes and graphic language which may be considered offensive to some readers. There are extremely dark themes inside of this work of fiction, including, but not limited mentions of suicide, past childhood abuse, issues with mental health, themes of dubious consent, rough sex, and nonconsent fantasies. Do not read if any of the above are triggering.
Not only that; she’s slowly being drawn to his rival, Dietrich Bittinger, whose legal interests she now represents.
The investigation into The Room of Horror continues…and Kara finds her client under dangerous scrutiny in the process.
Trapped between two men with decades of ugly secrets, Kara struggles to keep her morality intact. The question is…how far down the rabbit hole will she go in her quest for the truth? Will she come out on the other side a better person, or will she become a new monster entirely?
In the end, Kara may find her very life at stake.
**TRIGGER This book is for sale to ADULT AUDIENCES ONLY. It contains sexually explicit scenes and graphic language which may be considered offensive to some readers. There are extremely dark themes inside of this work of fiction, including, but not limited mentions of suicide, past childhood abuse, issues with mental health, themes of dubious consent, rough sex, and nonconsent fantasies. Do not read if any of the above are triggering.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 10, 2024
3 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Asha Everly
4 books47 followersMuse driven writer, passionate reader, and a lover of all things fantastical and mysterious. Loves her romance dark, full of teeth, and crimson passion.
She loves a villain more than she loves a hero and often times her stories will reflect that devious quirk (defect?) in her brain.
When she's not writing, she's reading, being with her family, walking her werewolf. Sometimes, the only place you can find her is leaping over fences on horseback, the wind in her face.
Everyone has a dark side. What's yours?
She loves a villain more than she loves a hero and often times her stories will reflect that devious quirk (defect?) in her brain.
When she's not writing, she's reading, being with her family, walking her werewolf. Sometimes, the only place you can find her is leaping over fences on horseback, the wind in her face.
Everyone has a dark side. What's yours?
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 3, 2025
3.5 stars! I really loved reading it and it kept my attention, but I have to give it 3.5 stars based on my personal liking. We are all Dieter stans (he reminded me a lot of Lestat even in the first book and I loved that this comparison is brought up here!), but I wish Nick was in it more.
I respect the exploration, and the first half of the story was really interesting in that the reader, like Kara, is falling under Dieter’s spell. I especially like what this exploration means for Kara’s overall character development.
It is a definitely lighter novel in comparison to Contention, despite covering the law case of The Room. And if you think about it, the first novel was published at the end of 2020, and its sequel was published last year. Apparently her work contract prevented her from hobby writing.
Do I wish we had more time with Kara and Nick? To be honest, what I wanted was Kara and Nick’s toxic dynamic 2.0, but there was no further character growth that didn’t seem easily resolved. Any angst from her being the side piece is not there. It seemed that after their separation and conversations that Nick really did see Kara’s point of view.
The struggle to be together wasn’t that climactic.
Also no delicious CNC with them. The bulk of the story is Cara and Dieter… and while Dieter is charming, his scenes with Kara do fall flat in that he is so calculated, whereas it’s clear Nick loses his mind over Kara. That being said, the scenes of his submissive act are incredibly erotic. This is a perfect example of showing AND telling. Kara knows that he is good at making women fall for him, and we see it happening to her.
However, I do like that Nick basically becomes a very nice and supportive partner. It didn’t feel like him at all, but I needed that.
I respect the exploration, and the first half of the story was really interesting in that the reader, like Kara, is falling under Dieter’s spell. I especially like what this exploration means for Kara’s overall character development.
It is a definitely lighter novel in comparison to Contention, despite covering the law case of The Room. And if you think about it, the first novel was published at the end of 2020, and its sequel was published last year. Apparently her work contract prevented her from hobby writing.
Do I wish we had more time with Kara and Nick? To be honest, what I wanted was Kara and Nick’s toxic dynamic 2.0, but there was no further character growth that didn’t seem easily resolved. Any angst from her being the side piece is not there. It seemed that after their separation and conversations that Nick really did see Kara’s point of view.
The struggle to be together wasn’t that climactic.
Also no delicious CNC with them. The bulk of the story is Cara and Dieter… and while Dieter is charming, his scenes with Kara do fall flat in that he is so calculated, whereas it’s clear Nick loses his mind over Kara. That being said, the scenes of his submissive act are incredibly erotic. This is a perfect example of showing AND telling. Kara knows that he is good at making women fall for him, and we see it happening to her.
However, I do like that Nick basically becomes a very nice and supportive partner. It didn’t feel like him at all, but I needed that.
Want to read
December 12, 2024Now I need to reread the first book to remember what happened 😅😅😅
December 14, 2024
4.5 Stars
When I found out this book was being released on Dec 10th, did I finish my work early and move all other plans to read this book? Yes and I would do it again.
The book was amazing. I liked Dieter’s character a lot. Gale and Nick said repeatedly he wasn’t a good guy and Kara and I (more so I than her considering the book I’m reading) knew that. But he’s so good at pulling people in. He could talk into me doing anything. I genuinely understood every bad decision Kara made (unlike some other books). I loved him so much I didn’t even care about Nick by the end and I loved Nick in the last book. I want a sequel exploring more of Dieter. His motivations and feelings are still a mystery. I know some of it was chalked up to him being spoiled, bored and neglected. But a part of me thinks there might be more? Just enough to warrant a book?
Anyway, I loved it. It would’ve been a 5 star review if not for the fact that the ending felt rushed. Though I should say that did not take away from my experience of the book. I will read anything and everything by this author.
Also I never write reviews. I give a rating when I know how I feel but I rarely write something this long. This book just had a complexity to it and I loved Kara. She felt like a real person.
When I found out this book was being released on Dec 10th, did I finish my work early and move all other plans to read this book? Yes and I would do it again.
The book was amazing. I liked Dieter’s character a lot. Gale and Nick said repeatedly he wasn’t a good guy and Kara and I (more so I than her considering the book I’m reading) knew that. But he’s so good at pulling people in. He could talk into me doing anything. I genuinely understood every bad decision Kara made (unlike some other books). I loved him so much I didn’t even care about Nick by the end and I loved Nick in the last book. I want a sequel exploring more of Dieter. His motivations and feelings are still a mystery. I know some of it was chalked up to him being spoiled, bored and neglected. But a part of me thinks there might be more? Just enough to warrant a book?
Anyway, I loved it. It would’ve been a 5 star review if not for the fact that the ending felt rushed. Though I should say that did not take away from my experience of the book. I will read anything and everything by this author.
Also I never write reviews. I give a rating when I know how I feel but I rarely write something this long. This book just had a complexity to it and I loved Kara. She felt like a real person.
August 14, 2025
I'm not one for reviews (so bear with me it will be messy and long), but this series might be one of the best of its genre. It’s considerably well written and the characters are developed. It's not perfect, and there are definitely some cringeworthy moments — those godawful nicknames and a good deal of growling and baring teeth— but I went in expecting nothing, and halfway through the first book, I realized there was absolutely no way I could stop reading and finished both books in one sitting.
The plot is original and interesting, and the characters are well fleshed out and complex, the slow burn impeccable.
Nick
Normally, I hate love triangles; usually, one love interest is the obvious choice and is more explored. But in this book, both dynamics are unique complex and fleshed out.
That said — in the second book, Nick is somewhat overshadowed by Kara and Dieter’s relationship, even though his relationship with Kara is the one this series is technically built around. Even though I liked Nick’s and Kara’s relationship, and they had great chemistry and banter, the intensity and tension of Kara and Dieter’s dynamic was more interesting.
But Nick is an interesting character in his own right, layered, also somewhat of a puzzle. And at the end of the day, he's undoubtedly the healthier choice, despite the questionable things he's done. Questionable is an understatement. He does some pretty nasty shit, is arrogant, mean, and cold but has good character development.
Dieter
Many books in this genre try to create compelling morally gray or villainous characters, but most fall into tired clichés: the "villain" is supposed to be dark and dangerous, but usually they feel flat, two-dimensional, with obvious tragic backstories and transparent motivations. Their "darkness" is performative and shallow.
But Dieter’s character allure and power actually feel real and unnerving, all the while never reveals his true self. Even after two books, you still don’t fully know him.
Also, he’s actually a genuinely horrible person. Not "I’m bad only due to my trauma" or "bad on the outside but good inside." In so many books, villains won’t cross certain moral lines, not because it doesn't fit the character, but because the author wants to keep them redeemable. The "darkness" is safe and not very realistic. Here, the author pulls no punches. Dieter is truly terrible. He does horrendous things, the things he’s involved in are vile. He shows no remorse or concern, even when it comes to her. He really doesn't give a shit and is playing with her, but in such a way that you are left wondering throughout the entire book — does he actually not give a shit? His motivations and actions remain a mystery.
Dieter & Kara
Kara is a raw, broken but strong character, cautious and funny stubborn and ballsy, but around Dieter, she kind of loses self control. There's a vulnerability he brings out that creates an intimacy in their dynamic that doesn’t even exist with Nick.
He’s distrustful in every scene, and Kara fights her desire, but can’t help being drawn in. And you understand why and understand his almost hypnotic allure and can’t judge her, because in her place, you’d probably break much sooner than she did.
She see through just enough to fear him, to fear what he might be and his ability to break her, yet never enough to actually know him. Every scene with Dieter is laced with tension. Kara knowseverything he says and does is calculated. Everything in her screams to resist — but ultimately, she can’t. Watching her slowly give in is fascinating, the tension just perfect. Even by the end of the second book, after she faces the truth, after everything she suffered at his hands — the humiliation, manipulation, torture — she still can’t bring herself to hate him truly. Her mind despises him, but deep down, she still yearns for him.
I really hope there won’t be another book focused on Dieter with a different female protagonist. The dynamic between Dieter and Kara is so perfectly crafted, it wouldn’t work with someone else. They have such strikingly opposing moral compasses. Kara’s intentions are always good, and she stands out at what she does because she's in it for defending and helping others, as opposed to chasing power and money. Dieter represents the complete opposite, and that clash is what makes their dynamic so intense
Ending
Did not like the ending — it felt rushed and underdeveloped. And it’s not because I wanted Kara to end up with Dieter. Her getting back with Nick makes sense at that point in the plot, but the story itself feels unfinished.
The book never shielded away from exploring toxicity, and had no problem pushing boundaries in Kara, Nick, and Dieter’s relationships. And then suddenly it was as if there was a jarring shift in the ending, and the happy ending was quickly given just for the sake of it.
There’s so much left unexplored: Kara’s relationship with her father (which shapes so much of her character and relationships), Nick’s past (especially his abominable mother), his relationship with Dieter, Dieter’s true nature, and so on. Even Kara and Nick’s story doesn't feel like it's reached a satisfying conclusion, but that they just progressed into the next stage of the relationship but still have a lot to work out.
But most of all, Kara and Dieter. Yes, Dieter is abhorrent, and yes, Kara is with Nick, but again, their story feels unfinished and is left on a cliffhanger. It's not about her ending up with him, but seeing how the dynamic of the three progresses.
I usually hate when series get unnecessarily stretched, but this duology desperately needs a sequel, and I don't think there will be one. Only then could the ending work. As it is, it's frustrating and disappointing.
Imagine how insane the story would get if there was another book where she would try to bring him to justice after he literally threatened to kill her if she makes a move to do so.
The plot is original and interesting, and the characters are well fleshed out and complex, the slow burn impeccable.
Nick
Normally, I hate love triangles; usually, one love interest is the obvious choice and is more explored. But in this book, both dynamics are unique complex and fleshed out.
That said — in the second book, Nick is somewhat overshadowed by Kara and Dieter’s relationship, even though his relationship with Kara is the one this series is technically built around. Even though I liked Nick’s and Kara’s relationship, and they had great chemistry and banter, the intensity and tension of Kara and Dieter’s dynamic was more interesting.
But Nick is an interesting character in his own right, layered, also somewhat of a puzzle. And at the end of the day, he's undoubtedly the healthier choice, despite the questionable things he's done. Questionable is an understatement. He does some pretty nasty shit, is arrogant, mean, and cold but has good character development.
Dieter
Many books in this genre try to create compelling morally gray or villainous characters, but most fall into tired clichés: the "villain" is supposed to be dark and dangerous, but usually they feel flat, two-dimensional, with obvious tragic backstories and transparent motivations. Their "darkness" is performative and shallow.
But Dieter’s character allure and power actually feel real and unnerving, all the while never reveals his true self. Even after two books, you still don’t fully know him.
Also, he’s actually a genuinely horrible person. Not "I’m bad only due to my trauma" or "bad on the outside but good inside." In so many books, villains won’t cross certain moral lines, not because it doesn't fit the character, but because the author wants to keep them redeemable. The "darkness" is safe and not very realistic. Here, the author pulls no punches. Dieter is truly terrible. He does horrendous things, the things he’s involved in are vile. He shows no remorse or concern, even when it comes to her. He really doesn't give a shit and is playing with her, but in such a way that you are left wondering throughout the entire book — does he actually not give a shit? His motivations and actions remain a mystery.
Dieter & Kara
Kara is a raw, broken but strong character, cautious and funny stubborn and ballsy, but around Dieter, she kind of loses self control. There's a vulnerability he brings out that creates an intimacy in their dynamic that doesn’t even exist with Nick.
He’s distrustful in every scene, and Kara fights her desire, but can’t help being drawn in. And you understand why and understand his almost hypnotic allure and can’t judge her, because in her place, you’d probably break much sooner than she did.
She see through just enough to fear him, to fear what he might be and his ability to break her, yet never enough to actually know him. Every scene with Dieter is laced with tension. Kara knowseverything he says and does is calculated. Everything in her screams to resist — but ultimately, she can’t. Watching her slowly give in is fascinating, the tension just perfect. Even by the end of the second book, after she faces the truth, after everything she suffered at his hands — the humiliation, manipulation, torture — she still can’t bring herself to hate him truly. Her mind despises him, but deep down, she still yearns for him.
I really hope there won’t be another book focused on Dieter with a different female protagonist. The dynamic between Dieter and Kara is so perfectly crafted, it wouldn’t work with someone else. They have such strikingly opposing moral compasses. Kara’s intentions are always good, and she stands out at what she does because she's in it for defending and helping others, as opposed to chasing power and money. Dieter represents the complete opposite, and that clash is what makes their dynamic so intense
Ending
Did not like the ending — it felt rushed and underdeveloped. And it’s not because I wanted Kara to end up with Dieter. Her getting back with Nick makes sense at that point in the plot, but the story itself feels unfinished.
The book never shielded away from exploring toxicity, and had no problem pushing boundaries in Kara, Nick, and Dieter’s relationships. And then suddenly it was as if there was a jarring shift in the ending, and the happy ending was quickly given just for the sake of it.
There’s so much left unexplored: Kara’s relationship with her father (which shapes so much of her character and relationships), Nick’s past (especially his abominable mother), his relationship with Dieter, Dieter’s true nature, and so on. Even Kara and Nick’s story doesn't feel like it's reached a satisfying conclusion, but that they just progressed into the next stage of the relationship but still have a lot to work out.
But most of all, Kara and Dieter. Yes, Dieter is abhorrent, and yes, Kara is with Nick, but again, their story feels unfinished and is left on a cliffhanger. It's not about her ending up with him, but seeing how the dynamic of the three progresses.
I usually hate when series get unnecessarily stretched, but this duology desperately needs a sequel, and I don't think there will be one. Only then could the ending work. As it is, it's frustrating and disappointing.
Imagine how insane the story would get if there was another book where she would try to bring him to justice after he literally threatened to kill her if she makes a move to do so.
August 16, 2025
Don't get me wrong, this book is good. Like really fucking good. It has flaws and quite a bit of proper cringe, but overall pretty well written when compared to other similar books. I literally could not stop reading, but the ending ruins both books. It is so, so rushed, like the author wanted to slap an undeserved happily-ever-after that was so out of place considering the context of this book. Part of the first book and the majority of this one explores the relationship of Cara and Dietrich, and let me tell you something, I have read a shit ton of books in the genre, but this relationship was so mesmerizing to read. Every. Single. Scene. was filled with more tension than an entire romance book usually packs. I can't remember the last time I read such a fascinating and complex character as Dietrich or such a fascinating relationship as his and Cara’s. There was such a palpable level of intimacy and ambiguity in their relationship. So many books try to replicate this type of relationship; I can't think of one that comes even close to how well this one was done. Dietrich's character is fucking phenomenal: mask upon mask upon mask, a mass of qualities and contradictions. Terrible, cunning, volatile, irredeemable,a mastermind and wicked manipulator but playful, sensual, tender, magnetic; an incomprehensible enigma. Despite her ambiguous and intimate relationship with him, despite her witnessing all these different aspects of him, Kara still has no idea who he really is. That's a vital part of his appeal as a character
The thing about the “morally gray alluring mysterious” characters typically met in these types of books is that they are rarely written well enough to translate what the author is trying to portray them as. This author did an outstanding job. Dietrich didn't just fuck with her head, he fucks with the reader head. There's that scene in the beginning of the book where he very subtly threatens to shove her off the balcony at the bar without actually saying anything, and you know what, if he had, I would not be surprised at all. I have no clue what he would do next, and even less what type of person he is. And just in general, the book had somewhat more depth and nuance in all the friendships, relationships, and family dynamics then I had expected from a dark romance; Nicholas character and his fucked up relationship with his mother, Bianca's and Kara's friendship, Nicholas's and Dietrich weird kind of ambiguous relationship, Kara's absolutely fucked up relationship with her father…
I don't hate the ending because I hate Nicholas, in fact, I liked Nicholas in the first book, and even liked him in the second. He is interesting and has proper character and relationship development. His and Cara's relationship is also well written and makes sense, and so rare in love triangles that both male interests are actually fleshed out. The problem is that by the second book his and Cara's dynamic pales in comparison to Dietrich. Even the few sex scenes between Cara and Dietrich are so much more intimate, erotic, and provocative.
he is morally black. like actually terrible.Just as an example of the insanity: in one of the most emotionally charged moments, this motherfucker saves her from probably what would have ended up being her death, after she was tortured and abused by a torture business she's been trying to bring out this entire series, a business, BY THE WAY, he is a part of. He proceeds to act callous and indifferent, threatens to kill her, has his doctor take care of her, forces her to sleep that night in his house, then days later causally strolls up at her apartment, being the psycho unrepentant diva motherfucker that he is, threatens her life if she even thinks about trying to bring him down, tells her he'll always take her back as he as tenderly caresses. That sounds like the beginning of a fucking War.
The last few chapters felt so out of place and so rushed. It makes sense for her to go back to Nick, but it was written in such a funky way where it felt like their relationship had a dramatic shift that felt unnatural and off. After I finished the book I was confused, but thought, you know, this is probably going to be used as a plot point for the next book. However, that epilogue made the weirdness of the last chapter make complete sense.
Basically, to summarize, the author writes that she played with the idea of having Cara end up with Dietrich, but in the end didn’t feel like she could do that to Cara, that if in some alternate universe she was a darker and more morally ambiguous character, she would have chosen Dietrich, and that now she’s working on healing herself with Nick. And I get what she was trying to do, but this is so not the book to do it.
The thing I love about this series is it has no issues about being dark. Like actually dark. Not cheap, performative moral ambiguity in an attempt to make a character more interesting. I mean, Nicholas and especially Dietrich are properly fucked up. The author has absolutely zero issues with dabbling in extremely dark themes and having Cara struggle through dark shit. So no wonder this sudden change of heart at the end is so evident in those last few chapters. It feels like the ending is trying to slap a happily-ever-after on a story that is completely unfinished and unfleshed out. It’s just really strange to give a character a happily-ever-after just for the sake of it when it is so out of place plot-wise and when the entire book is so dark and complex.
However, my biggest bone to pick with the epilogue is the idea that Dietrich is too dark for Cara. Of course he is, that’s the WHOLE DAMN POINT. That’s what makes their dynamic so complex and compelling. They clash on a fundamental level. The push and pull of their relationship, the cat-and-mouse dynamic, the ambiguity of Dietrich’s character, the weird friendship, the power play, the toxicity, the way his mere presence thoroughly fuck her brain, the INTIMACY, it’s just SO PERFECT. If their way a new love interest, God forbid, or Cara was more morally skewed or “darker”, it would fundamentally change the nature of the relationship; the tension layers and complexity would be ruined. It's like all aspects of their personalities were built perfectly to create the most Intoxicating of dynamics, like magnets that are supposed to repel, but despite the laws of nature attract with a ferocious pull.
Again, I think that plot-wise Nicholas and Cara are where they should be. Of course she falls back into Nick's arms and tries to resolve their issues and heal together. But this as an ending?? Even that relationship it doesn't feel complete. Also, apart from Dietrich and Cara and Nick and Cara there are so, so, so many aspects of this book that are left unexplored.
If it wasn’t for the last few chapters and the epilogue, I probably would have given this book five stars and that just makes it worse. It's painful to see such a waste of potential. I literally never write a review, but I swear to God the abrupt ending, epilogue and unfinished business fucked my brain in all the wrong ways. lol, I think there was a passage in the book that said something along the lines “she feels pulling her hair and throwing herself out the window, going splat on the cement, watching her organs on the sidewalk”. Could not phrase it better. The amount of potential that all these characters and dynamics have is just so good that I’m still delusional enough to hope that there will be a sequel.
The thing about the “morally gray alluring mysterious” characters typically met in these types of books is that they are rarely written well enough to translate what the author is trying to portray them as. This author did an outstanding job. Dietrich didn't just fuck with her head, he fucks with the reader head. There's that scene in the beginning of the book where he very subtly threatens to shove her off the balcony at the bar without actually saying anything, and you know what, if he had, I would not be surprised at all. I have no clue what he would do next, and even less what type of person he is. And just in general, the book had somewhat more depth and nuance in all the friendships, relationships, and family dynamics then I had expected from a dark romance; Nicholas character and his fucked up relationship with his mother, Bianca's and Kara's friendship, Nicholas's and Dietrich weird kind of ambiguous relationship, Kara's absolutely fucked up relationship with her father…
I don't hate the ending because I hate Nicholas, in fact, I liked Nicholas in the first book, and even liked him in the second. He is interesting and has proper character and relationship development. His and Cara's relationship is also well written and makes sense, and so rare in love triangles that both male interests are actually fleshed out. The problem is that by the second book his and Cara's dynamic pales in comparison to Dietrich. Even the few sex scenes between Cara and Dietrich are so much more intimate, erotic, and provocative.
he is morally black. like actually terrible.Just as an example of the insanity: in one of the most emotionally charged moments, this motherfucker saves her from probably what would have ended up being her death, after she was tortured and abused by a torture business she's been trying to bring out this entire series, a business, BY THE WAY, he is a part of. He proceeds to act callous and indifferent, threatens to kill her, has his doctor take care of her, forces her to sleep that night in his house, then days later causally strolls up at her apartment, being the psycho unrepentant diva motherfucker that he is, threatens her life if she even thinks about trying to bring him down, tells her he'll always take her back as he as tenderly caresses. That sounds like the beginning of a fucking War.
The last few chapters felt so out of place and so rushed. It makes sense for her to go back to Nick, but it was written in such a funky way where it felt like their relationship had a dramatic shift that felt unnatural and off. After I finished the book I was confused, but thought, you know, this is probably going to be used as a plot point for the next book. However, that epilogue made the weirdness of the last chapter make complete sense.
Basically, to summarize, the author writes that she played with the idea of having Cara end up with Dietrich, but in the end didn’t feel like she could do that to Cara, that if in some alternate universe she was a darker and more morally ambiguous character, she would have chosen Dietrich, and that now she’s working on healing herself with Nick. And I get what she was trying to do, but this is so not the book to do it.
The thing I love about this series is it has no issues about being dark. Like actually dark. Not cheap, performative moral ambiguity in an attempt to make a character more interesting. I mean, Nicholas and especially Dietrich are properly fucked up. The author has absolutely zero issues with dabbling in extremely dark themes and having Cara struggle through dark shit. So no wonder this sudden change of heart at the end is so evident in those last few chapters. It feels like the ending is trying to slap a happily-ever-after on a story that is completely unfinished and unfleshed out. It’s just really strange to give a character a happily-ever-after just for the sake of it when it is so out of place plot-wise and when the entire book is so dark and complex.
However, my biggest bone to pick with the epilogue is the idea that Dietrich is too dark for Cara. Of course he is, that’s the WHOLE DAMN POINT. That’s what makes their dynamic so complex and compelling. They clash on a fundamental level. The push and pull of their relationship, the cat-and-mouse dynamic, the ambiguity of Dietrich’s character, the weird friendship, the power play, the toxicity, the way his mere presence thoroughly fuck her brain, the INTIMACY, it’s just SO PERFECT. If their way a new love interest, God forbid, or Cara was more morally skewed or “darker”, it would fundamentally change the nature of the relationship; the tension layers and complexity would be ruined. It's like all aspects of their personalities were built perfectly to create the most Intoxicating of dynamics, like magnets that are supposed to repel, but despite the laws of nature attract with a ferocious pull.
Again, I think that plot-wise Nicholas and Cara are where they should be. Of course she falls back into Nick's arms and tries to resolve their issues and heal together. But this as an ending?? Even that relationship it doesn't feel complete. Also, apart from Dietrich and Cara and Nick and Cara there are so, so, so many aspects of this book that are left unexplored.
If it wasn’t for the last few chapters and the epilogue, I probably would have given this book five stars and that just makes it worse. It's painful to see such a waste of potential. I literally never write a review, but I swear to God the abrupt ending, epilogue and unfinished business fucked my brain in all the wrong ways. lol, I think there was a passage in the book that said something along the lines “she feels pulling her hair and throwing herself out the window, going splat on the cement, watching her organs on the sidewalk”. Could not phrase it better. The amount of potential that all these characters and dynamics have is just so good that I’m still delusional enough to hope that there will be a sequel.
September 27, 2025
I don't want to give any spoilers, but I will say the vibe in this Part 2 was much less ominous than Part 1. I still didn't know which way things were going, and I liked that it kept me guessing. I almost wish there was a Part 3 because the ending wraps up quicker than I expected it to, and I think there was a lot more story to tell. I said it in my review of the first book, and I'll say it again here: I don't really consider this a romance. More fiction with elements of romance. I still enjoyed it, though. Very fascinating characters that were flawed and fucked up and kept me interested the entire time.
March 5, 2025
A fitting end, though I must say I was getting concerned about who Kara would end up with. My heart was confused and shaken! Although, reality check. I'm glad she didn't forgive Nick instantly after the first book. Kara really did put him in the doghouse for quite a sum of this one.
It was good to see Kara develop away from the alcohol dependent person she was in the first book, although her choices with men remained a struggle (she clearly acknowledges this). I can see why she was so drawn to Dieter. He's...gosh. I don't know. I can imagine the allure and the revulsion he can inspire. A guy you hate to love but can't stop wanting until you're so wrapped up you don't know which way is up and which is down. Red flags galore.
Overall, Dissension has a satisfying end. Does the end itself feel a bit rushed? Yes. In the same breath, I'm not sure how much more I needed Kara to be dragged through after all that happens. The climax hits, we see the aftermath, then the resolution of Kara's drama with Nick. In addition, there's a final wrap up chapter + a steamy epilogue. I'll take it!
It was good to see Kara develop away from the alcohol dependent person she was in the first book, although her choices with men remained a struggle (she clearly acknowledges this). I can see why she was so drawn to Dieter. He's...gosh. I don't know. I can imagine the allure and the revulsion he can inspire. A guy you hate to love but can't stop wanting until you're so wrapped up you don't know which way is up and which is down. Red flags galore.
Overall, Dissension has a satisfying end. Does the end itself feel a bit rushed? Yes. In the same breath, I'm not sure how much more I needed Kara to be dragged through after all that happens. The climax hits, we see the aftermath, then the resolution of Kara's drama with Nick. In addition, there's a final wrap up chapter + a steamy epilogue. I'll take it!
April 11, 2025
I really am glad that the second book did end up coming out regardless however many years after the first installment was published, but... I think the story ultimately suffered for it—from the numerous grammatical mistakes and rushed ending, I felt let down by the end and perhaps would suggest that the first book alone should be read as an open-ended standalone.
Don't get me wrong, I did miss these characters and for the most part I think their characterizations were still bright and entrancing here and there (Dieter is such a tantalizing subject to read into!), but the endless repetition Kara found herself dubiously engaging with got old really quick re: Dieter and his contracts/shady dealings, bringing up Nick's engagement/his tragic childhood, etc. Where at the start of the story they present as intriguing obstacles, halfway into the book it's tiring, and close to the end? It's frustrating.
Regardless, I am happy for the author that she was able to conclude the Contention series all these years later just to offer reads the chance to see how it all truly ends.
Don't get me wrong, I did miss these characters and for the most part I think their characterizations were still bright and entrancing here and there (Dieter is such a tantalizing subject to read into!), but the endless repetition Kara found herself dubiously engaging with got old really quick re: Dieter and his contracts/shady dealings, bringing up Nick's engagement/his tragic childhood, etc. Where at the start of the story they present as intriguing obstacles, halfway into the book it's tiring, and close to the end? It's frustrating.
Regardless, I am happy for the author that she was able to conclude the Contention series all these years later just to offer reads the chance to see how it all truly ends.
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December 11, 2024The end was rushed....but for real WHERE is Dieter's book? Who is the girl smart enough to see the manipulation, see him behind the mask?
November 19, 2025
One of the best second books in a duology I have ever read.
“After her run-in with Dieter, she’s certain she’ll never find another person scary again. Because they’ll never be Dietrich Bittinger.”
Way to build up everything so amazingly and then throw me in a direction I wouldn't have expected in my wildest, wildest dreams. Wow.
“As Kara turns off the car, Dieter slings his arm around the back of her seat, leaning over to-
“Don’t try that boyfriend shit on me, you reek of ashtray!” Kara wrinkles her nose and waves her hand in front of her face, as if to remove a particular stench from her vicinity.
He pauses, eyes unreadable in the shadow, near black in the dark. Dieter’s voice is low, husky. “Later? If I’m good?”
Kara glances at his mouth, bites her lip in restraint, and doesn’t answer.”
Dietrich. Oh my god Dietrich. I wrote you off last book. I should not have. WOW. One of the most interesting, enigmatic, and compelling characters I have ever, ever, ever, ever read in my life. Dietrich I could never get you straight and I never will. The relationship between Kara and Dietrich, the anger and fear, the scolding with the submitting, the charm, the motherly care, the power dynamic, the way they use each other, goddamn.
“Did you really think Dietrich Bittinger would just sit down and take this sham deal? That’s fucking insulting. I’ll edit this, the way it should be. Then, we can sit down and your client can sign on the dotted line like a good little boy.”
The ‘good little boy’ goes red.
Dieter is faking a yawn. When he cracks his neck, he groans slightly. He’s ridiculously pleased; he always cracks his neck like this when he’s pleased.”
The only thing I'm upset about is that I really needed more time. This would've been a great trilogy (I almost expected it to be by the last 50 pages): the first book being about Nick, the second about Dietrich, and the third about her and the inevitable choice between them.
“Her mouth feels dry. She hasn’t allowed a man to stay at her place in a very, very long time. Nick’s never even been to her home. “You’ll have to sleep on the couch. You’ll hate it. Let’s just get you a hotel room-”
“I’m too blasted to hate your couch,” he drawls in reply, his hand finding its way to hers, fingers interlacing. “Take me home.”
Kara closes her eyes and tries to convince herself that she’s not making a mess of her life with this man.”
“After her run-in with Dieter, she’s certain she’ll never find another person scary again. Because they’ll never be Dietrich Bittinger.”
Way to build up everything so amazingly and then throw me in a direction I wouldn't have expected in my wildest, wildest dreams. Wow.
“As Kara turns off the car, Dieter slings his arm around the back of her seat, leaning over to-
“Don’t try that boyfriend shit on me, you reek of ashtray!” Kara wrinkles her nose and waves her hand in front of her face, as if to remove a particular stench from her vicinity.
He pauses, eyes unreadable in the shadow, near black in the dark. Dieter’s voice is low, husky. “Later? If I’m good?”
Kara glances at his mouth, bites her lip in restraint, and doesn’t answer.”
Dietrich. Oh my god Dietrich. I wrote you off last book. I should not have. WOW. One of the most interesting, enigmatic, and compelling characters I have ever, ever, ever, ever read in my life. Dietrich I could never get you straight and I never will. The relationship between Kara and Dietrich, the anger and fear, the scolding with the submitting, the charm, the motherly care, the power dynamic, the way they use each other, goddamn.
“Did you really think Dietrich Bittinger would just sit down and take this sham deal? That’s fucking insulting. I’ll edit this, the way it should be. Then, we can sit down and your client can sign on the dotted line like a good little boy.”
The ‘good little boy’ goes red.
Dieter is faking a yawn. When he cracks his neck, he groans slightly. He’s ridiculously pleased; he always cracks his neck like this when he’s pleased.”
The only thing I'm upset about is that I really needed more time. This would've been a great trilogy (I almost expected it to be by the last 50 pages): the first book being about Nick, the second about Dietrich, and the third about her and the inevitable choice between them.
“Her mouth feels dry. She hasn’t allowed a man to stay at her place in a very, very long time. Nick’s never even been to her home. “You’ll have to sleep on the couch. You’ll hate it. Let’s just get you a hotel room-”
“I’m too blasted to hate your couch,” he drawls in reply, his hand finding its way to hers, fingers interlacing. “Take me home.”
Kara closes her eyes and tries to convince herself that she’s not making a mess of her life with this man.”
May 10, 2025
4 stars
Oops long time no see. This book had a lot more going on than the first one. It had more plot points, more moving parts, more everything.
The conclusion between nick and kara after was a bit rushed compared to the pacing of the rest of the plot, but emotionally I was invested throughout. I have some doubts about the representation of the legal field, especially kara as a new lawyer, yet it didn’t bother me enough to lower my rating any further. And since I read the first book and it contained the same degree of improbability, I expected it in the second.
It’s nice to see how kara’s character grew. The topic of alcoholism wasn’t summed up in a tidy little way. She struggled and she was resilient and it was shown, not said.
I have to note how much I enjoyed the author’s careful depiction of nick; she managed to make him the most sane, likable, HUMANE guy by the end of this book. I thought unfavorably of him in the first book and was on the fence about him throughout the second book. By the end of this series (unless there are plans for a third book, which I haven’t seen anything about), my opinion of him did a 180. Yes, he is still a morally grey character. However, he’s not so grey that I’m still uneasy about a happily-ever-after ending.
Karas relationship with her dad and his legal issues are unresolved by the end of the second book. Does that warrant a third one in the series to tie up loose strings? Honestly, I don’t think so (but I’d still read it). Sometimes, things don’t have to have spoken resolutions. We know that kara is ready to brave the storm on both fronts, emotional and legal, and that’s good enough for me.
I think this book/series deserves more attention. I’ve only seen it recommended a handful of times in dark romance forums. I would consider it a near-staple of the genre.
Oops long time no see. This book had a lot more going on than the first one. It had more plot points, more moving parts, more everything.
The conclusion between nick and kara after was a bit rushed compared to the pacing of the rest of the plot, but emotionally I was invested throughout. I have some doubts about the representation of the legal field, especially kara as a new lawyer, yet it didn’t bother me enough to lower my rating any further. And since I read the first book and it contained the same degree of improbability, I expected it in the second.
It’s nice to see how kara’s character grew. The topic of alcoholism wasn’t summed up in a tidy little way. She struggled and she was resilient and it was shown, not said.
I have to note how much I enjoyed the author’s careful depiction of nick; she managed to make him the most sane, likable, HUMANE guy by the end of this book. I thought unfavorably of him in the first book and was on the fence about him throughout the second book. By the end of this series (unless there are plans for a third book, which I haven’t seen anything about), my opinion of him did a 180. Yes, he is still a morally grey character. However, he’s not so grey that I’m still uneasy about a happily-ever-after ending.
Karas relationship with her dad and his legal issues are unresolved by the end of the second book. Does that warrant a third one in the series to tie up loose strings? Honestly, I don’t think so (but I’d still read it). Sometimes, things don’t have to have spoken resolutions. We know that kara is ready to brave the storm on both fronts, emotional and legal, and that’s good enough for me.
I think this book/series deserves more attention. I’ve only seen it recommended a handful of times in dark romance forums. I would consider it a near-staple of the genre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2025
Despite the supposedly happy ending, I still felt bittersweet by the time I finished the story. Maybe it’s because, deep down, I always believed Kara and Dieter were supposed to be endgame. They just made sense, you know? And I genuinely believe that—even with his always-calculating nature—Dieter cares about Kara (maybe even likes or loves her, idk). If it weren’t for the Room (the tortured scene at least), I can honestly see them ending up together. Kara herself said she loved him, and from the very beginning she always had eyes and spark for him.
And Dieter too—despite his original motivation to get close to her just to spite Nick—I feel like he actually respected her and genuinely liked her as a person. She was kind of his soft spot. And don’t forget his line: “You aren’t broken. You don’t need to be fixed.” 😔😩💔 He really saw her for who she was. It honestly made me wonder what was going through his mind after the Room scene, especially after she felt afraid, disgusted, and betrayed by him. He must’ve felt at least some regret or anguish knowing he’d completely lost her. Because for what it’s worth, Kara was the only one who ever defended him—saying he might be evil and spoiled, but not truly rotten…. 💔
Their dynamic felt natural, whereas her relationship with Nick always felt a bit forced, like they were together mainly because of their shared trauma (even though I do think Nick was the one who truly loved her first, long before she ever felt the same—because the first time she claimed to love him didn’t feel like real love to me, since she actually fell for Dieter first.)
And Dieter too—despite his original motivation to get close to her just to spite Nick—I feel like he actually respected her and genuinely liked her as a person. She was kind of his soft spot. And don’t forget his line: “You aren’t broken. You don’t need to be fixed.” 😔😩💔 He really saw her for who she was. It honestly made me wonder what was going through his mind after the Room scene, especially after she felt afraid, disgusted, and betrayed by him. He must’ve felt at least some regret or anguish knowing he’d completely lost her. Because for what it’s worth, Kara was the only one who ever defended him—saying he might be evil and spoiled, but not truly rotten…. 💔
Their dynamic felt natural, whereas her relationship with Nick always felt a bit forced, like they were together mainly because of their shared trauma (even though I do think Nick was the one who truly loved her first, long before she ever felt the same—because the first time she claimed to love him didn’t feel like real love to me, since she actually fell for Dieter first.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2025
Didn’t totally love this sequel. I wish the relationship between gale and dieter was explored a little more. Why has she been able to protect herself more than Kara has? Or has he done the same kind of betrayal with gale and she just went back to him? Like wtf is that??? How did nick and dieter’s friendship end or did it? Do they continue to hang? I doubt it bc nick seems like he won’t fuck with him anymore but was there a confrontation or anything at all? Did nick just distance himself and it wasn’t talked about bc Dieter doesn’t give a fuck about anyone at all? Has dieter ever been in love? Is he capable? There were so many things that needed to be explored and I want a dieter spinoff sooo bad.
August 7, 2025
The way I would kill for Dieter to get his own book(s)! He is no doubt the wooooorst but his character is also so alluring and I NEED more of him. He doesn't even have to be redeemable–honestly it might be even better if he isn't. I am just fascinated by him and definitely a little in love with him.
December 22, 2024
It feels like it is hastily written, i couldn't find the witty anectodes that drew me in the first book. It was decent at the best.
A hea was what the heroine deserved but not like this.
Im sorry
A hea was what the heroine deserved but not like this.
Im sorry
April 16, 2025
One of my top book series so far. Loved the dynamics between the three characters and was disappointed that the story had to end. Asha Everly is definitely one writer I’ll be keeping an eye on!
May 8, 2025
incredibly non-essential. def could've been kept to a single book lol.
November 11, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down. It was addicting to read, and I loved Dietrich’s magnetic charm and his chemistry with Kara. Most of the sex scenes are really hot and well fleshed out, and Dietrich is written like a true, sexy sociopath. I will say I don’t like how easily Kara forgave Nicholas after she tells him her boundaries with not messing with him due to his fiancée, and he ignores her request. I also wish that Dietrich had been more obsessed with Kara, and had not let her go so easily after she told Gale she wanted to quit working for him. I wanted more scenes with Dietrich and wanted Kara to make Nick regret crossing her. The way the book ended felt very rushed, and like it’s missing something. Don’t get me wrong; Kara and Nick’s happy ending was great, and the epilogue was really hot, but I’m just left wanting more.
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