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Grave Intentions: A Dark Taboo Romance
When death claimed my parents, fate delivered me to him—my protector, my damnation, my foster brother.
At nine years old, I lost everything to a drunk driver's careless actions. Thrust into the Wilson's foster home, I found an unlikely guardian in Talon, whose fierce eyes and protective nature became my anchor in a world of chaos.
As years passed, our bond deepened into something darker, more possessive. But when they caught us together, they made sure our separation was absolute.
Now I'm at MIT, trapped in an engagement to a man whose true nature emerges behind closed doors. But Talon lurks in the shadows, his obsessive love a dangerous promise of salvation. His protection comes at a price, one collected in broken bones and fresh graves.
Some of the most beautiful love stories are written by the most damaged souls. Welcome to ours.
In a world built on control and manipulation, sometimes the only way to find love is to let the monsters win.
At nine years old, I lost everything to a drunk driver's careless actions. Thrust into the Wilson's foster home, I found an unlikely guardian in Talon, whose fierce eyes and protective nature became my anchor in a world of chaos.
As years passed, our bond deepened into something darker, more possessive. But when they caught us together, they made sure our separation was absolute.
Now I'm at MIT, trapped in an engagement to a man whose true nature emerges behind closed doors. But Talon lurks in the shadows, his obsessive love a dangerous promise of salvation. His protection comes at a price, one collected in broken bones and fresh graves.
Some of the most beautiful love stories are written by the most damaged souls. Welcome to ours.
In a world built on control and manipulation, sometimes the only way to find love is to let the monsters win.
322 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2024
899 people are currently reading
1891 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
January 20, 2025
This was okay! I loved the darker elements - mostly watching these two go a bit psycho together - but I didn't love the writing. It wasn't an issue with the writing style itself as much as the fact that a lot of things didn't make sense to me, like Talon's self-contradictions (mainly how he kept leaving Lena alone for extended periods of time without intervening despite knowing, or at least being able to assume, what was happening to her). I felt like, if he were really as fiercely protective over her as he made himself out to be, there are a few things that shouldn't have happened. I also felt like the ending tied up pretty neatly without a lot of explanation for how they got away with things. Overall, it was fine, just not great.
March 14, 2025
Absolutely loved this book!! I just don’t know how to express how I feel after reading this book, but trust me it definitely ain’t bad 🥵😈
October 14, 2025
Plot: 3.5/5 • Smut: 3.5/5 ———> Her foster family is shit. The worst. They abuse her and take advantage of her. Her knight in shining armor is her older foster brother. Only he pretends he wants nothing to do with her. He takes beating after beating for her. As they get older feelings come to the surface and it’s explosive. They’re caught in the act and she’s forced to move in with another asshole abuser. But don’t forget about her knight in shining armor to the rescue.
At first I thought Lena was a little bit of a softie who couldn’t really stand up for herself, but that changed as the book progressed. Especially when she’s in college and she goes out for girls night. Bye loser 👋🏻
The smut is good. A little repetitive, but still enjoyable. There’s masked scenes, and some heavier stuff. Read the triggers.
At first I thought Lena was a little bit of a softie who couldn’t really stand up for herself, but that changed as the book progressed. Especially when she’s in college and she goes out for girls night. Bye loser 👋🏻
The smut is good. A little repetitive, but still enjoyable. There’s masked scenes, and some heavier stuff. Read the triggers.
January 21, 2025
"His need for me is as raw and urgent as my own. My hands explore his back, his shoulders, and the scars that mark him. We’re both scarred, damaged by our pasts. But in this moment, we’re connected, vibrant, and alive."
June 9, 2025
This was ok. Nothing overly bad about this story but I didn't quite connect too well with the MCs. It was quite dark as far as what Lena and Talon had to endure, more so for her. There were some pretty depraved situations as far as having sex, but ehhh quite fitting for these two characters.
January 28, 2025
Me reading this book goes to show the extents I will go to to get out of the reading slump I’m in
August 10, 2025
even though talon voss will never compare to my glorious husband malachi vize, he definitely stands right behind him
“𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓇𝑒 𝓂𝒾𝓃𝑒, 𝓁𝑒𝓃𝒶,” 𝒾 𝓌𝒽𝒾𝓈𝓅𝑒𝓇.
“𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒾 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒽𝒶𝓊𝓃𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓉𝑜 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝑔𝓇𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝒾𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝓉𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝓀𝑒𝑒𝓅 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒸𝓁𝑜𝓈𝑒.”
if carving ya’lls initials in each others skin isn’t true love then nothing is !!
i’m never ashamed to say i love a taboo foster siblings book
talons claim & addiction to lena is a drug personified. their bond is so strong.
he stalks her, protects her, he did you know what in her moisturizer literally checking off every single green flag.
everything about him had me clenching my thighs, i’m utterly gagging for him
lena is one lucky girl
there’s nothing but me loving & rooting for them as talon murders the assholes who put them through immense damage then bury them 8ft under together
i badly want another book of them because i know their story isn’t over and make it longer please selena !! 🪦🖤
“𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒾𝓈 𝓂𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓃 𝒿𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝒶 𝓂𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉, 𝓁𝑒𝓃𝒶. 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝑒 𝒿𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝓈𝒽𝒶𝓇𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓈 𝒶 𝓅𝓇𝑜𝓂𝒾𝓈𝑒. 𝒶 𝓋𝑜𝓌. 𝒾’𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝓈𝒽𝒾𝑒𝓁𝒹 𝒶𝑔𝒶𝒾𝓃𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹, 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝒶𝓃𝒸𝒽𝑜𝓇 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓈𝓉𝑜𝓇𝓂. 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒 𝓂𝓎 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓈𝑜𝓃 𝓉𝑜 𝓀𝑒𝑒𝓅 𝒻𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔, 𝓉𝑜 𝓃𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝑔𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝓊𝓅.”
“𝒻𝓇𝑜𝓂 𝓃𝑜𝓌 𝑜𝓃, 𝒾𝓉’𝓈 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓂𝑒 𝒶𝑔𝒶𝒾𝓃𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹. 𝓃𝑜 𝓂𝒶𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝓇𝑜𝓌 𝒶𝓉 𝓊𝓈, 𝓌𝑒’𝓁𝓁 𝒻𝒶𝒸𝑒 𝒾𝓉 𝓉𝑜𝑔𝑒𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇. 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝑒 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 — 𝒾𝓉’𝓈 𝓊𝓃𝒷𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀𝒶𝒷𝓁𝑒. 𝒾𝓉’𝓈 𝒻𝑜𝓇𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇.”
“𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓇𝑒 𝓂𝒾𝓃𝑒, 𝓁𝑒𝓃𝒶,” 𝒾 𝓌𝒽𝒾𝓈𝓅𝑒𝓇.
“𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒾 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝒽𝒶𝓊𝓃𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓉𝑜 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝑔𝓇𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝒾𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉’𝓈 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝓉𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝓀𝑒𝑒𝓅 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒸𝓁𝑜𝓈𝑒.”
if carving ya’lls initials in each others skin isn’t true love then nothing is !!
i’m never ashamed to say i love a taboo foster siblings book
talons claim & addiction to lena is a drug personified. their bond is so strong.
he stalks her, protects her, he did you know what in her moisturizer literally checking off every single green flag.
everything about him had me clenching my thighs, i’m utterly gagging for him
lena is one lucky girl
there’s nothing but me loving & rooting for them as talon murders the assholes who put them through immense damage then bury them 8ft under together
i badly want another book of them because i know their story isn’t over and make it longer please selena !! 🪦🖤
“𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒾𝓈 𝓂𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓃 𝒿𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝒶 𝓂𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉, 𝓁𝑒𝓃𝒶. 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝑒 𝒿𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝓈𝒽𝒶𝓇𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓈 𝒶 𝓅𝓇𝑜𝓂𝒾𝓈𝑒. 𝒶 𝓋𝑜𝓌. 𝒾’𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝓈𝒽𝒾𝑒𝓁𝒹 𝒶𝑔𝒶𝒾𝓃𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹, 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝒶𝓃𝒸𝒽𝑜𝓇 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓈𝓉𝑜𝓇𝓂. 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓁𝓁 𝒷𝑒 𝓂𝓎 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓈𝑜𝓃 𝓉𝑜 𝓀𝑒𝑒𝓅 𝒻𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔, 𝓉𝑜 𝓃𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝑔𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝓊𝓅.”
“𝒻𝓇𝑜𝓂 𝓃𝑜𝓌 𝑜𝓃, 𝒾𝓉’𝓈 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓂𝑒 𝒶𝑔𝒶𝒾𝓃𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹. 𝓃𝑜 𝓂𝒶𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝓇𝑜𝓌 𝒶𝓉 𝓊𝓈, 𝓌𝑒’𝓁𝓁 𝒻𝒶𝒸𝑒 𝒾𝓉 𝓉𝑜𝑔𝑒𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇. 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝒶𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝑒 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 — 𝒾𝓉’𝓈 𝓊𝓃𝒷𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓀𝒶𝒷𝓁𝑒. 𝒾𝓉’𝓈 𝒻𝑜𝓇𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇.”
December 19, 2024
This book was so good. Lena and Talon are foster brother and sister. Lena lost her parents and was sent to her adoptive parents, the Wilsons. The Wilsons put up a façade of niceness and a loving family. Lena realizes quickly that this is not a nice place. In comes Talon, who protects her and takes her beatings. Talon is dark and a murderer. He is also very possessive of Lena. I loved this book, but I would recommend that trigger warnings be checked.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2025
Grave Intentions
A very dark romance indeed. This book deals with some really hard triggers, so I recommend reading the author's warning if you have any before starting this story. That being said, WOW! Watching Lena and Talon overcome their traumas, take back their power and find love with each other is intense. The plot is gripping, the spicy scenes are very hot, and I was rooting for these characters with each turn of the page.
A very dark romance indeed. This book deals with some really hard triggers, so I recommend reading the author's warning if you have any before starting this story. That being said, WOW! Watching Lena and Talon overcome their traumas, take back their power and find love with each other is intense. The plot is gripping, the spicy scenes are very hot, and I was rooting for these characters with each turn of the page.
Read
January 16, 2025dnf @36%
this is literally a watered down version of Little Stranger/Liar. Talon will NEVER compare to Malachi🙄
this is literally a watered down version of Little Stranger/Liar. Talon will NEVER compare to Malachi🙄
November 19, 2025
I really enjoyed the first half of this book but towards the end I felt like every chapter was just them having sex. Which I like but I got bored
February 2, 2025
I loved this story so much. I could go on and on but 🥲🤍
March 16, 2025
Talon & Lena. So this book started out fine. Lena's parents pass away in a car accident leaving her an orphan. She goes to a foster family where Talon is another foster. The family is physically and mentally abusive. Talon is closed off and Lena keeps trying to break through to him but he keeps her at arms length.
When she turns 17, she tells him that she's attracted to him. He tells her that he won't make a move until she's 18. He's like 4 years older than her but stays/pays rent to the foster parents so that he can still watch out after her. When she turns 18, they finally consummate their relationship while the foster parents are away. He tells her that when they did it then she was now his to own and protect. The possessiveness was really overboard. They get caught and he gets kicked out of the house.
So here are my issues with this book:
- both H and h were Vs their first time but he performed like an experienced man. Uhhhh yeah right
- he watches from afar even when she moves out of the foster family's house and goes to college at MIT
- the foster family forces her into an engagement with a family friend's son who ends up being abusive too. She went along with it thinking they would somehow mess up her scholarship
- She's still in love with Talon and Talon with her but again...he stays away until he breaks in while her fiance is trying to r@pe her and ends up unaliving him.
- He's a professional at disposing of a body both this time and later when he and Lena take out their foster dad.
- Police are moving in and asking more and more questions because 2 people around them have gone missing. Their solution...move to Austin.
I'm pretty sure I found this on one of the social media posts and I really need to stop getting conned into reading meh books.
When she turns 17, she tells him that she's attracted to him. He tells her that he won't make a move until she's 18. He's like 4 years older than her but stays/pays rent to the foster parents so that he can still watch out after her. When she turns 18, they finally consummate their relationship while the foster parents are away. He tells her that when they did it then she was now his to own and protect. The possessiveness was really overboard. They get caught and he gets kicked out of the house.
So here are my issues with this book:
- both H and h were Vs their first time but he performed like an experienced man. Uhhhh yeah right
- he watches from afar even when she moves out of the foster family's house and goes to college at MIT
- the foster family forces her into an engagement with a family friend's son who ends up being abusive too. She went along with it thinking they would somehow mess up her scholarship
- She's still in love with Talon and Talon with her but again...he stays away until he breaks in while her fiance is trying to r@pe her and ends up unaliving him.
- He's a professional at disposing of a body both this time and later when he and Lena take out their foster dad.
- Police are moving in and asking more and more questions because 2 people around them have gone missing. Their solution...move to Austin.
I'm pretty sure I found this on one of the social media posts and I really need to stop getting conned into reading meh books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2025
I really enjoyed the first like 40% … but then it’s just “eh” for the rest.
I loved seeing the dynamic of how they grew up and seeing Talons obsession and protectiveness grow/ come out. It made their love story feel more real.
There were a few times that the author repeated paragraphs/descriptions, so could use an additional peek through by an editor.
Unfortunately, there were just too many aspects that didn’t make sense. (SPOILERS AHEAD) so stop reading now if you don’t want the examples of what.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
• Talon leaving Lena knowing about the abuse. For how protective he was during their childhood, it completely contradicts his whole protective role. And then staying away in order save up to “establish” himself. But then just never did? What?
• Jamie. I have no idea why his character was ever made. He’s a jerk and then all of a sudden a hero. Then just disappears.
• I could kind of understand why Talon hung around after he turned 18/graduated, because of his devotion to Lena. However, it made exactly ZERO sense for Lena to stay once she was 18, especially after Talon left. At no point will this ever make sense to me. Girl, please.
• David …. Forced engagement? Abuse? Rape? … and staying because your foster parents will ruin your scholarship? Bro, foster dad worked at a bank. He’s not a CEO billionaire with infinite power, and foster mom is assumed a housewife. Literally no power.
• Mask in a club. And then having “no idea” who said masked stranger is. No, you’re just an idiot Lena because it’s painfully obvious.
• Moving to Texas and seemingly getting away with everything. Cops are sniffing around you so you plan a sneaky getaway with new ID and using cash so you can’t be traced YET you transfer your MIT credits to TX University? Ummmm…. Who’s gonna tell them? 1) that makes you look hella guilty, 2) transferring colleges will 100% leave a paper trail, so BOOM CAUGHT.
I loved seeing the dynamic of how they grew up and seeing Talons obsession and protectiveness grow/ come out. It made their love story feel more real.
There were a few times that the author repeated paragraphs/descriptions, so could use an additional peek through by an editor.
Unfortunately, there were just too many aspects that didn’t make sense. (SPOILERS AHEAD) so stop reading now if you don’t want the examples of what.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
• Talon leaving Lena knowing about the abuse. For how protective he was during their childhood, it completely contradicts his whole protective role. And then staying away in order save up to “establish” himself. But then just never did? What?
• Jamie. I have no idea why his character was ever made. He’s a jerk and then all of a sudden a hero. Then just disappears.
• I could kind of understand why Talon hung around after he turned 18/graduated, because of his devotion to Lena. However, it made exactly ZERO sense for Lena to stay once she was 18, especially after Talon left. At no point will this ever make sense to me. Girl, please.
• David …. Forced engagement? Abuse? Rape? … and staying because your foster parents will ruin your scholarship? Bro, foster dad worked at a bank. He’s not a CEO billionaire with infinite power, and foster mom is assumed a housewife. Literally no power.
• Mask in a club. And then having “no idea” who said masked stranger is. No, you’re just an idiot Lena because it’s painfully obvious.
• Moving to Texas and seemingly getting away with everything. Cops are sniffing around you so you plan a sneaky getaway with new ID and using cash so you can’t be traced YET you transfer your MIT credits to TX University? Ummmm…. Who’s gonna tell them? 1) that makes you look hella guilty, 2) transferring colleges will 100% leave a paper trail, so BOOM CAUGHT.
December 8, 2024
4/5 dedication - To all the naughty book whores dreaming of a dangerous protector who'd kill for you then fuck you in the blood of your enemies - your ultimate anti-hero has arrived. Embrace your darkest impulses. It's time to let your freak flag fly.
Lena Graves is mine. My obsession, my salvation, my everything. And I'll gladly burn the world to keep it that way.
TROPES:
~dark romance (they kill by the end of the book & the hero is a stalker)
~childhood friends to lovers
~forbidden romance: foster siblings
~dual virgins
~true soulmates
~touch her and die
"God help me, I love every twisted, violent part of him."
Lena and Talon are foster siblings and are being raised in a very abusive household. Talon does what he can to protect her, but seeing as how he's 4 years older than her and ages out of the system, he can't do that for long. When their foster parents catch them in the act, they make him leave. Permanently. So he goes... but he doesn't realize that he's putting her in the hands of two abusive men.
Fast forward a bit, and Lena misses Talon desperately. She's trying to move on from her past but it isn't working. One night when her fiance forces himself on her, Talon is there to save her and kills him. Cue the start of their beautiful, bloody reunion.
I really liked this book and plan to read more of Selena Winter's works. While I love Talon's devotion to Lena, he really could have done more to save her, especially in her childhood. But he makes up for that in the current time. And man, it's brutal.
SAFETY:
Virgin/celibate: dual virgins
OM/OW drama: OM drama (h's forced fiance)
Cheating/sharing: h somewhat cheats on her fiance for H
Triggers: cheating, abuse from foster parents, rape from foster parent and fiance (not graphic), branding, SA, H drugs h
Kinks: blood play, branding (knife, they brand each other), CNC, degradation/praise, dirty talk, dry humping, hand necklace, knife play, primal, rough sex, somno
HEA?: yes! <3
My bookshelves may contain spoilers.
Lena Graves is mine. My obsession, my salvation, my everything. And I'll gladly burn the world to keep it that way.
TROPES:
~dark romance (they kill by the end of the book & the hero is a stalker)
~childhood friends to lovers
~forbidden romance: foster siblings
~dual virgins
~true soulmates
~touch her and die
"God help me, I love every twisted, violent part of him."
Lena and Talon are foster siblings and are being raised in a very abusive household. Talon does what he can to protect her, but seeing as how he's 4 years older than her and ages out of the system, he can't do that for long. When their foster parents catch them in the act, they make him leave. Permanently. So he goes... but he doesn't realize that he's putting her in the hands of two abusive men.
Fast forward a bit, and Lena misses Talon desperately. She's trying to move on from her past but it isn't working. One night when her fiance forces himself on her, Talon is there to save her and kills him. Cue the start of their beautiful, bloody reunion.
I really liked this book and plan to read more of Selena Winter's works. While I love Talon's devotion to Lena, he really could have done more to save her, especially in her childhood. But he makes up for that in the current time. And man, it's brutal.
SAFETY:
Virgin/celibate: dual virgins
OM/OW drama: OM drama (h's forced fiance)
Cheating/sharing: h somewhat cheats on her fiance for H
Triggers: cheating, abuse from foster parents, rape from foster parent and fiance (not graphic), branding, SA, H drugs h
Kinks: blood play, branding (knife, they brand each other), CNC, degradation/praise, dirty talk, dry humping, hand necklace, knife play, primal, rough sex, somno
HEA?: yes! <3
My bookshelves may contain spoilers.
December 8, 2025
I picture her looking up at me with those beautiful, haunted eyes. I want to dominate her, claim her, brand her as mine.
Merely a child when the principal delivered the horrific news of her parent's passing, Lena Graves was sentenced to a childhood of abuse and torment the moment she entered foster care. With no relatives who wanted her, she was sent to live with the Wilson's family and from her first night there she knew this was a horrible misfortune. When she met Talon, he was another foster child who's taken countless beatings and hatred while he remained under their room and care. Jamie, was the actual son of the couple and would sit by powerless as his foster siblings were beaten black and blue, not that after night for any minor infraction. Trying everything she could to get underneath Talon's skin, she felt something shift inside the night he took that first beating for her. Following him like a lovesick puppy, she wanted his attention and affection more than anything, but would constantly be pushed aside. Unbeknownst to her, his own feelings were conflicting him each night as their age gap weighed heavily on his mind. Nearly 18 and she barely 14, he knew any relationship could end up burning everything to the ground. A few weeks after her eighteenth birthday, the two would finally step over the line and engage in sex, only to be caught in the act by their foster parents. Sending Talon packing, this triggered a disgust in their adoptive parents where they would force a new man into her life. Trying to erase the imprint of Talon, they offered up David and his abusive and controlling ways. With a full ride scholarship to MIT in Boston she has to endure eight months with David before it'll all fade away.
But the word feels wrong on my tongue. Brother doesn’t explain the electricity when his hand brushes mine. Brother doesn’t account for how my heart races when our eyes lock. Brother definitely doesn’t cover the dreams I’ve been having lately of him kissing me.
Watching and stalking Lena through hidden cameras and his own personal surveillance, he's witnessing first hand her newest abuse. Seeing the arguments and flinching terror, he would walk into a drunken and enraged David trying to rape her. Overcome with passion and rage, he would stab David through his throat before drugging Lena to keep her with a perfect alibi. Unable to leave her alone even after all this time, the two find a kinship in living together in their apartment. Perfecting the act of a grieving fiance, she talked highly of David and kept an air of mystery around his disappearance, even to his parents and police detectives. Fast forward a few months and his foster father is the newest suspect to their foster father Richard. Stabbing him and watching him bleed out, the two engaged in passionate intercourse just to rub the final grains of salt into him. Returning to their apartment in Boston, Lena would have to return home for one weekend as her monster mother cries it out for the reporters and police. Never caring what truly happened to her husband, it would be swept under the rug as nobody could link the murders back to them. Feeling pressure from unmarked police watching them, they would slip out of Boston and run to Ashton, Texas where they can be free to explore their connection together. Discovering shared passions and attractions, there will never be a dull moment between the two.
“Because I’m possessive. Obsessive. It’s not kindness driving me— it’s something darker.”
Merely a child when the principal delivered the horrific news of her parent's passing, Lena Graves was sentenced to a childhood of abuse and torment the moment she entered foster care. With no relatives who wanted her, she was sent to live with the Wilson's family and from her first night there she knew this was a horrible misfortune. When she met Talon, he was another foster child who's taken countless beatings and hatred while he remained under their room and care. Jamie, was the actual son of the couple and would sit by powerless as his foster siblings were beaten black and blue, not that after night for any minor infraction. Trying everything she could to get underneath Talon's skin, she felt something shift inside the night he took that first beating for her. Following him like a lovesick puppy, she wanted his attention and affection more than anything, but would constantly be pushed aside. Unbeknownst to her, his own feelings were conflicting him each night as their age gap weighed heavily on his mind. Nearly 18 and she barely 14, he knew any relationship could end up burning everything to the ground. A few weeks after her eighteenth birthday, the two would finally step over the line and engage in sex, only to be caught in the act by their foster parents. Sending Talon packing, this triggered a disgust in their adoptive parents where they would force a new man into her life. Trying to erase the imprint of Talon, they offered up David and his abusive and controlling ways. With a full ride scholarship to MIT in Boston she has to endure eight months with David before it'll all fade away.
But the word feels wrong on my tongue. Brother doesn’t explain the electricity when his hand brushes mine. Brother doesn’t account for how my heart races when our eyes lock. Brother definitely doesn’t cover the dreams I’ve been having lately of him kissing me.
Watching and stalking Lena through hidden cameras and his own personal surveillance, he's witnessing first hand her newest abuse. Seeing the arguments and flinching terror, he would walk into a drunken and enraged David trying to rape her. Overcome with passion and rage, he would stab David through his throat before drugging Lena to keep her with a perfect alibi. Unable to leave her alone even after all this time, the two find a kinship in living together in their apartment. Perfecting the act of a grieving fiance, she talked highly of David and kept an air of mystery around his disappearance, even to his parents and police detectives. Fast forward a few months and his foster father is the newest suspect to their foster father Richard. Stabbing him and watching him bleed out, the two engaged in passionate intercourse just to rub the final grains of salt into him. Returning to their apartment in Boston, Lena would have to return home for one weekend as her monster mother cries it out for the reporters and police. Never caring what truly happened to her husband, it would be swept under the rug as nobody could link the murders back to them. Feeling pressure from unmarked police watching them, they would slip out of Boston and run to Ashton, Texas where they can be free to explore their connection together. Discovering shared passions and attractions, there will never be a dull moment between the two.
“Because I’m possessive. Obsessive. It’s not kindness driving me— it’s something darker.”
December 23, 2024
Thoughts: Talon is an obsessed anti hero but I was disappointed he left her for periods of time and her was hurt. Also, he kept saying you have no idea what you do to me, a lot, during spicy time.
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot / Storyline 👩🏻💻: 📑📑📑
Heat / Burn (slow / fast): 🐢🐢🐢🐇🐇
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Red Flags: 🚩🚩🚩
Kinks: 🫦🫦🫦
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥺🫣😑🥵😒😊
Ending: 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
***spoilers - whole story***
Lena’s (9) parents are gone in a car accident and she gets sent to a foster home. The Wilson’s are not good people. Mr. Wilson is an abu$ive jerk. Mrs. Wilson is manipulative and conniving. Jaime, their son, is not as bad but still picks on Lena. Talon (13), the other foster kid - who has lived with them for a while - is dark and brooding.
Talon immediately is obsessed with her, but knowing his obsession may hurt her, he stays away from her. He hides in the shadows, watching trying to protect her from Mr. Wilson’s fists and anger. lena tries to remain bright and cheery, but the Wilsons slowly chip away at her resolve.
The Wilsons try to set Lena up with David, whose family is rich, but Lena doesn’t want to marry him.
Talon comes a goes. He stays around to make sure she is ok but he isn’t there all the time. Mr. Wilson SAs her and David does as well.
Finally Talon comes for her. He stops David during one of his attacks on Lena and then takes care of the b0dy.
Lena realizes she is just as dark as Talon.
They delete Mr. Wilson but leave Jaime - because he apologized when they were young and did protect her from his dad when they were older - and Mrs. Wilson - because Jaime needed someone in his family left (Lena’s wishes).
Then they flee to Austin Texas and live their lives.
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot / Storyline 👩🏻💻: 📑📑📑
Heat / Burn (slow / fast): 🐢🐢🐢🐇🐇
Darkness: 🖤🖤
Red Flags: 🚩🚩🚩
Kinks: 🫦🫦🫦
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 🥺🫣😑🥵😒😊
Ending: 👩🏻❤️👨🏻 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
***spoilers - whole story***
Lena’s (9) parents are gone in a car accident and she gets sent to a foster home. The Wilson’s are not good people. Mr. Wilson is an abu$ive jerk. Mrs. Wilson is manipulative and conniving. Jaime, their son, is not as bad but still picks on Lena. Talon (13), the other foster kid - who has lived with them for a while - is dark and brooding.
Talon immediately is obsessed with her, but knowing his obsession may hurt her, he stays away from her. He hides in the shadows, watching trying to protect her from Mr. Wilson’s fists and anger. lena tries to remain bright and cheery, but the Wilsons slowly chip away at her resolve.
The Wilsons try to set Lena up with David, whose family is rich, but Lena doesn’t want to marry him.
Talon comes a goes. He stays around to make sure she is ok but he isn’t there all the time. Mr. Wilson SAs her and David does as well.
Finally Talon comes for her. He stops David during one of his attacks on Lena and then takes care of the b0dy.
Lena realizes she is just as dark as Talon.
They delete Mr. Wilson but leave Jaime - because he apologized when they were young and did protect her from his dad when they were older - and Mrs. Wilson - because Jaime needed someone in his family left (Lena’s wishes).
Then they flee to Austin Texas and live their lives.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2024
This book was very dark and spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️. Triggers in this book include : abuse by foster parents, murder, violence and knife play 🔪 and stalking.
This story is about a young woman named Lena whose parents get killed in an accident. Her grandmother doesn’t want to take care of Lena. Lena is put into the foster care system. She is sent into this foster home where the foster parents are abusive towards her and her foster brother Talon. She tries to befriend Talon but he acts cold towards her. Lena thinks that he hates her but actually he likes her a great deal. He sees that the foster parents have abused Lena and he doesn’t like it. He takes it upon himself to protect her.
Talon begins to stalk her when he leaves the foster home he and Lena are in. She is still being abused after Talon leaves by the foster dad. Talon begins following Lena without her knowledge. The foster parents have arranged a union with this guy named David that is abusive to Lena and she is sexually assaulted by him. Talon finds out and he murders David in front of Lena. He doesn’t like anybody touching Lena except for him. He wants to sleep with Lena but not until she turns eighteen years of age. They do begin a sexual relationship which is found out by the foster dad. Lena and Talon come to fall in love with each other. He follows Lena while wearing a mask but she doesn’t know that it’s Talon. They do form a plan to murder their foster dad together. Talon is wanting to protect and show that he loves Lena. Talon has never cared for anyone but Lena. Lena sees the goodness in Talon as well as his darkness. She likes his dark side. I liked Talon and Lena together as a couple after what they went through together in the foster home. I liked this book.
This story is about a young woman named Lena whose parents get killed in an accident. Her grandmother doesn’t want to take care of Lena. Lena is put into the foster care system. She is sent into this foster home where the foster parents are abusive towards her and her foster brother Talon. She tries to befriend Talon but he acts cold towards her. Lena thinks that he hates her but actually he likes her a great deal. He sees that the foster parents have abused Lena and he doesn’t like it. He takes it upon himself to protect her.
Talon begins to stalk her when he leaves the foster home he and Lena are in. She is still being abused after Talon leaves by the foster dad. Talon begins following Lena without her knowledge. The foster parents have arranged a union with this guy named David that is abusive to Lena and she is sexually assaulted by him. Talon finds out and he murders David in front of Lena. He doesn’t like anybody touching Lena except for him. He wants to sleep with Lena but not until she turns eighteen years of age. They do begin a sexual relationship which is found out by the foster dad. Lena and Talon come to fall in love with each other. He follows Lena while wearing a mask but she doesn’t know that it’s Talon. They do form a plan to murder their foster dad together. Talon is wanting to protect and show that he loves Lena. Talon has never cared for anyone but Lena. Lena sees the goodness in Talon as well as his darkness. She likes his dark side. I liked Talon and Lena together as a couple after what they went through together in the foster home. I liked this book.
February 10, 2025
Yes Please!
Ah, Grave Intentions. A book that grabbed me by the throat, whispered sweet nothings in my ear, and then proceeded to gleefully drag me through a psychological hellscape while cackling. And you know what? I loved every damn second of it.
Now, let’s get one thing straight—this book is not for the faint of heart, the easily offended, or anyone who clutches their pearls at the mere mention of morally questionable behavior. No, darling, this is for those of us who thrive in the land of triggers galore. Think dark, twisted, and absolutely unhinged. If your favorite romance trope involves a little toxicity and a whole lot of psychological damage, then congratulations—you’re in the right place.
Selena Winters has masterfully crafted a story that makes you question your sanity, your morals, and possibly your life choices. The male lead? Oh, he’s something else. The kind of man who makes you rethink all those times you said, “I’d never put up with that.” The kind of man who could probably set your house on fire and still have you thanking him for the warmth. And the female lead? Let’s just say she’s in for one hell of a ride—whether she wants to be or not.
There’s obsession, manipulation, and enough red flags to decorate a parade, but let’s be honest, if you’re reading this, you probably packed your bags and voluntarily moved to the land of 🚩. Just know that if you’re looking for a fluffy romance where everyone makes good choices… this ain’t it, sweetheart.
Would I recommend it? Only if you enjoy books that make you question whether you need therapy (spoiler: you do). Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go stare at a wall and process my life choices. Four disturbingly addictive stars.
Ah, Grave Intentions. A book that grabbed me by the throat, whispered sweet nothings in my ear, and then proceeded to gleefully drag me through a psychological hellscape while cackling. And you know what? I loved every damn second of it.
Now, let’s get one thing straight—this book is not for the faint of heart, the easily offended, or anyone who clutches their pearls at the mere mention of morally questionable behavior. No, darling, this is for those of us who thrive in the land of triggers galore. Think dark, twisted, and absolutely unhinged. If your favorite romance trope involves a little toxicity and a whole lot of psychological damage, then congratulations—you’re in the right place.
Selena Winters has masterfully crafted a story that makes you question your sanity, your morals, and possibly your life choices. The male lead? Oh, he’s something else. The kind of man who makes you rethink all those times you said, “I’d never put up with that.” The kind of man who could probably set your house on fire and still have you thanking him for the warmth. And the female lead? Let’s just say she’s in for one hell of a ride—whether she wants to be or not.
There’s obsession, manipulation, and enough red flags to decorate a parade, but let’s be honest, if you’re reading this, you probably packed your bags and voluntarily moved to the land of 🚩. Just know that if you’re looking for a fluffy romance where everyone makes good choices… this ain’t it, sweetheart.
Would I recommend it? Only if you enjoy books that make you question whether you need therapy (spoiler: you do). Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go stare at a wall and process my life choices. Four disturbingly addictive stars.
December 17, 2024
Okay, okay, hear me out—the description is exactly what catches the eye of a dark romance girlie. But OMG, the content of this book? It’s a whole other thing. 😂 First off, nothing against the author, but even without being an editing expert, I feel like another proofread wouldn’t have hurt. There were some filler paragraphs, parts that could’ve been more concise, and even a few inconsistencies here and there. But honestly, nothing so major that it made it hard to read or follow.
You think you’ve seen it all in the dark romance world, but nope—there’s always something new. I will never look at body cream the same way again. And y’all know that cemetery scene in Saltburn? If that disturbed you, let me tell you—it’s NOTHING compared to what happens (multiple times!) in this book. Also, I’m convinced this is how serial killer couples are born—the ones who never get caught. Like, Talon must’ve binge-watched CSI and took detailed notes.
Now, don’t get me wrong—I did enjoy Talon’s possessive and protective tone, but at times it felt a bit suffocating. Also, the whole “acting like he was stalking a random prey” vibe was odd, considering they’ve known each other since they were kids (thanks, at least, for waiting until she was of age).
Talon and Lena’s relationship was...weird. We didn’t even see them date, just straight to being intimate, then separated (with Talon still following her around), and then back together again doing their little “activities.” I honestly would’ve liked to see them be more normal and chill for once.
It wasn’t the worst dark romance I’ve read (trust me, some out there are WAY worse), and at least this one had some kind of plot going on.
You think you’ve seen it all in the dark romance world, but nope—there’s always something new. I will never look at body cream the same way again. And y’all know that cemetery scene in Saltburn? If that disturbed you, let me tell you—it’s NOTHING compared to what happens (multiple times!) in this book. Also, I’m convinced this is how serial killer couples are born—the ones who never get caught. Like, Talon must’ve binge-watched CSI and took detailed notes.
Now, don’t get me wrong—I did enjoy Talon’s possessive and protective tone, but at times it felt a bit suffocating. Also, the whole “acting like he was stalking a random prey” vibe was odd, considering they’ve known each other since they were kids (thanks, at least, for waiting until she was of age).
Talon and Lena’s relationship was...weird. We didn’t even see them date, just straight to being intimate, then separated (with Talon still following her around), and then back together again doing their little “activities.” I honestly would’ve liked to see them be more normal and chill for once.
It wasn’t the worst dark romance I’ve read (trust me, some out there are WAY worse), and at least this one had some kind of plot going on.
March 31, 2025
I have to stop falling for these covers!!!
Ok. Zero offense to Ms. Winters, but I’ve had enough. This is the third or fourth book I’ve read from her and each time I’m quite disappointed. The covers are immediately a yes for me. The titles, great. The plots, I’m so down! But then, I start reading. And fairly quickly, I start to regret my life choices. There is constant repetition in her books. I could wipe out 1/3 at bare minimum. This book specifically was insanely contradictory and obnoxious. I, of course, kept reading because my nosy self needed to know what happened. But jeez. He’s obsessive and possessive, but he waits 3+ weeks to install hidden cameras? Nah. He doesn’t know she’s being assaulted? Never! He waits 8 months to be with her? Just stop the nonsense!! Then, Jamie is gone without any communication? It’s never said that Lena speaks to the Wilsons at any time. And where is “their” apartment in Boston? Did she leave David’s place? Move into Talon’s? Let’s not even discuss all the issues with the beginning of the book! There were so many gaps where I just had to assume the situations and I absolutely hated that. The premise of this book was great! I was super stoked to read it. But man did it fall short. Then there was the smut. Which was mostly really hot. However, some of the dialogue was so ridiculous. Downright stupid at times. This is a dangerous man and an unhinged young woman. Step it up!!! And where were the BJs?!?! They’re saving themselves for each other, but there was no exploratory/learning sessions? I’m definitely taking a S.W. break.
Ok. Zero offense to Ms. Winters, but I’ve had enough. This is the third or fourth book I’ve read from her and each time I’m quite disappointed. The covers are immediately a yes for me. The titles, great. The plots, I’m so down! But then, I start reading. And fairly quickly, I start to regret my life choices. There is constant repetition in her books. I could wipe out 1/3 at bare minimum. This book specifically was insanely contradictory and obnoxious. I, of course, kept reading because my nosy self needed to know what happened. But jeez. He’s obsessive and possessive, but he waits 3+ weeks to install hidden cameras? Nah. He doesn’t know she’s being assaulted? Never! He waits 8 months to be with her? Just stop the nonsense!! Then, Jamie is gone without any communication? It’s never said that Lena speaks to the Wilsons at any time. And where is “their” apartment in Boston? Did she leave David’s place? Move into Talon’s? Let’s not even discuss all the issues with the beginning of the book! There were so many gaps where I just had to assume the situations and I absolutely hated that. The premise of this book was great! I was super stoked to read it. But man did it fall short. Then there was the smut. Which was mostly really hot. However, some of the dialogue was so ridiculous. Downright stupid at times. This is a dangerous man and an unhinged young woman. Step it up!!! And where were the BJs?!?! They’re saving themselves for each other, but there was no exploratory/learning sessions? I’m definitely taking a S.W. break.
February 28, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Relationship: MF
Tropes/Triggers: Foster siblings, masked man, rape role play, blood play, knife play, primal play, rape, murder, virgin FMC, degradation, somnophilia, desecration of graves
Series: Grave Intentions - Standalone
Synopsis
FMC Lena is thrust into foster care when her parents are killed in an accident. She is placed with the Wilson family and meets her foster brother MMC Talon.
The foster family is abusive and although Talon keeps a distance from Lena, he protects her from them. As they get older, their feelings grow but Talon and Lena are forced apart.
How will they find their way back together and enact revenge on those who wronged them?
Review
There’s a build up of the main characters from childhood into adulthood to set the stage. The acting on forbidden feelings doesn’t start until the MC’s are at appropriate ages.
Unlike the other books, the MMC isn’t secretly rich or starts a lucrative business. These are two young adults who find their way without all the resources which adds a layer of reality. This is certainly still fiction but it’s a nice touch. I also enjoyed that the dynamic of the foster family and MC’s changes due to the growth of the characters.
There are some inconsistencies in the book, some are even on the same exact page, most don’t alter or affect the story too much.
Spice/Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Relationship: MF
Tropes/Triggers: Foster siblings, masked man, rape role play, blood play, knife play, primal play, rape, murder, virgin FMC, degradation, somnophilia, desecration of graves
Series: Grave Intentions - Standalone
Synopsis
FMC Lena is thrust into foster care when her parents are killed in an accident. She is placed with the Wilson family and meets her foster brother MMC Talon.
The foster family is abusive and although Talon keeps a distance from Lena, he protects her from them. As they get older, their feelings grow but Talon and Lena are forced apart.
How will they find their way back together and enact revenge on those who wronged them?
Review
There’s a build up of the main characters from childhood into adulthood to set the stage. The acting on forbidden feelings doesn’t start until the MC’s are at appropriate ages.
Unlike the other books, the MMC isn’t secretly rich or starts a lucrative business. These are two young adults who find their way without all the resources which adds a layer of reality. This is certainly still fiction but it’s a nice touch. I also enjoyed that the dynamic of the foster family and MC’s changes due to the growth of the characters.
There are some inconsistencies in the book, some are even on the same exact page, most don’t alter or affect the story too much.
May 31, 2025
started out good at first but writing got repetitive
It was nice at first to kinda see them grow up through the years and to see his protective side. I was excited by the premise that it would make sense that a kid in the foster system would be protective of another in an abusive home and be a good reason behind his actions. But about half way through that good premise kinda lost its way and while the story was still following the plot of revenge against the abusers and the bond between the two characters. It got a lot lost in the repetitive writing as in could make a drinking game of how many times you see the words protective, possessive, darkness and primal (despite it being a contemporary novel not supernatural) and so many other phrases repeated throughout the book. And there were things that could have been explored more that wasn’t ( such as what happened to the other “brother” past he’s in this state now and how would the brothers have reacted to each other as adults? ) instead the last half focused of the act of revenge or their sex life even though you got a little glimpse of what their life would be like moving forward at the end. And I liked the main boy at first and still did but there were some questionable moments that kinda annoyed me with his logic. Not a bad book but was a little disappointing it didn’t follow through with the premise a little better even though it accomplished what it set out to I guess.
It was nice at first to kinda see them grow up through the years and to see his protective side. I was excited by the premise that it would make sense that a kid in the foster system would be protective of another in an abusive home and be a good reason behind his actions. But about half way through that good premise kinda lost its way and while the story was still following the plot of revenge against the abusers and the bond between the two characters. It got a lot lost in the repetitive writing as in could make a drinking game of how many times you see the words protective, possessive, darkness and primal (despite it being a contemporary novel not supernatural) and so many other phrases repeated throughout the book. And there were things that could have been explored more that wasn’t ( such as what happened to the other “brother” past he’s in this state now and how would the brothers have reacted to each other as adults? ) instead the last half focused of the act of revenge or their sex life even though you got a little glimpse of what their life would be like moving forward at the end. And I liked the main boy at first and still did but there were some questionable moments that kinda annoyed me with his logic. Not a bad book but was a little disappointing it didn’t follow through with the premise a little better even though it accomplished what it set out to I guess.
August 2, 2025
Did not enjoy this anyway, but not listing the full trigger warnings in the ebook and having a broken link to the full list of trigger warnings instead tipped this into 1 star territory. I just don't think the subject matter was handled well at all. It read like the author grab bagged a bunch of the most popular dark romance buzz words/tropes and puked this thing out in an afternoon. The weird disconnect between Talon being obsessed but abandoning her to be raped by her foster dad then her forced fiancé is wild. The way the author addresses it later when they're back together is so wild. In his POV all he can do is make excuses and she immediately says don't blame yourself. Nope he should 100% blame himself. He knew the situation he was leaving her in and knew the foster dad and creepy fiancé's history. He goes from so confident about his murders, 100% believing the bodies will never be found and they'll never be caught to so paranoid that they run away to Austen. Then when they get there they still use her real name since she transfers her credits from MIT. Makes no sense.
I was so annoyed with the second half of the book I forgot how off putting the early chapters were. Those chapters just did not read like the characters were actually kids. It was really off putting and I should have known from there that it wasn't for me.
This is the second time reading a book by this author and I think they're just not for me.
I was so annoyed with the second half of the book I forgot how off putting the early chapters were. Those chapters just did not read like the characters were actually kids. It was really off putting and I should have known from there that it wasn't for me.
This is the second time reading a book by this author and I think they're just not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2024
WOW!!! Selena has done it again!! Once you start this book, you will NOT be able to put it back down!! However, please keep in mind that you should never yuck somebody else's yum! With that being said....
***BEFORE YOU GET STARTED CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS!!! NO... SERIOUSLY CHECK THEM NOW!!! YES...RIGHT NOW!!!!***
Selena provides a trigger warning list for every book she writes at selenawintersauthor.com.
You've been warned!!!!
If you are a fan of Selena Winters books, then you will automatically know that she does not disappoint when it comes to the men in her books!! So, if you enjoy dark romance, obsessive men, and touch her and die books, then welcome to the dark side!
Lena and Talon are introduced in the foster home, after Lena experiences a traumatic event in her life. The household that they are living in is very abusive. Talon does his best to keep Lena safe, but he is 4 years older than her and when he hits the age to leave, he is ultimately forced to do so and doesn't know he is leaving her behind in a horrible place. When they reunite, it is clear that Talon is never going to let her go again. If you want to know what happens or how this book ends, then I suggest you buy your own copy and read it for yourself! I'm not spoiling the story for you!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
***BEFORE YOU GET STARTED CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS!!! NO... SERIOUSLY CHECK THEM NOW!!! YES...RIGHT NOW!!!!***
Selena provides a trigger warning list for every book she writes at selenawintersauthor.com.
You've been warned!!!!
If you are a fan of Selena Winters books, then you will automatically know that she does not disappoint when it comes to the men in her books!! So, if you enjoy dark romance, obsessive men, and touch her and die books, then welcome to the dark side!
Lena and Talon are introduced in the foster home, after Lena experiences a traumatic event in her life. The household that they are living in is very abusive. Talon does his best to keep Lena safe, but he is 4 years older than her and when he hits the age to leave, he is ultimately forced to do so and doesn't know he is leaving her behind in a horrible place. When they reunite, it is clear that Talon is never going to let her go again. If you want to know what happens or how this book ends, then I suggest you buy your own copy and read it for yourself! I'm not spoiling the story for you!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2025
This is a Fast-paced shorter story that keeps you on your toes. This dark romance has a dual POV between both main characters. Ive read reviews where this story can be considered taboo. Im not sure I agree with that in todays writing world. I think this is more just a dark romance. The only taboo theme in this book would be that the main characters and love interests are foster brother and sister. So, I guess some would consider that taboo. However, the way the author writes their story, I didn't have any "ick" vibes at all.
He has a dark past and upon meeting in the foster home, they both experience abuse together. Not only did this help to form a bond between the characters, but they also have developing feelings throughout.
The story starts off as a slow burn but once the characters start....wow! Total hotness.
There ARE some pretty dark themes that could potentially be triggers for some. A few are child abuse, sexual abuse, murder, stalking, voyeurism. I recommend reading the author trigger warnings prior to reading this novel if you feel this might upset you or take away from your reading of the story.
I enjoyed reading this and now plan to check out other books by this author.
I recommend this book for mature audiences only due to all of the trigger warnings mentioned above plus very explicit sexual content.
He has a dark past and upon meeting in the foster home, they both experience abuse together. Not only did this help to form a bond between the characters, but they also have developing feelings throughout.
The story starts off as a slow burn but once the characters start....wow! Total hotness.
There ARE some pretty dark themes that could potentially be triggers for some. A few are child abuse, sexual abuse, murder, stalking, voyeurism. I recommend reading the author trigger warnings prior to reading this novel if you feel this might upset you or take away from your reading of the story.
I enjoyed reading this and now plan to check out other books by this author.
I recommend this book for mature audiences only due to all of the trigger warnings mentioned above plus very explicit sexual content.
January 3, 2025
Talon and Lena. She was put into the foster system when her parents were taken from her at nine by a drunk driver. Thats where she meet Talon. She was nine and he was thirteen. He was brooding, standoffish and watched her from the shadows. I absolutlly cried and my heart hurt for the way the author described her journey into foster care .. because its so real. Slowly the foster parents, the Wilsons, let their true colors evolve. Talon was always there to protect her. They get caught. Hes forced to leave the house. Shes alone, unprotected. Later he saves her from an attack. She shows her dark side. Just when you think you have it figured out. Loved the ending and their journey. I know this is a dark read but sometimes you just have to take a leap into the abyss and know you will come out safe. I couldnt get enough of Talon .. forgive me. So possessive. So protective. So passionate. They were made for each other. Hes dark and she not quite light and not quite dark but enough to ground him. I have read all of Selna Winters books and they are all dark, brooding, possessive, alpha driven, stalker, chaotic, and the heroine has a bit of a dark side. Very entertaing reads for a change of pace.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2024
Sometimes I read books just to see how far the boundaries have been pushed and to test whether I want to exist as a reader in that realm. Grave Intentions is not my first place of conflict, l think it just reminded me I may be getting old; certainly out of touch with what is rapidly becoming mainstream fiction.
However, if you're into erotophonophilia - (make sure you read the TWs because they're not in the book) - and are ok that the couple committing the crimes did so because it was their 'right' as revenge and you desperately want them to have a HAE, then this is for you. Personally, I might have felt a lot less conflicted if the story had ended with a cop car pulling up to arrest the pair of them.
With all that said, it's a well written story, that makes a great attempt at a plot, though the details for the perfect murder had many faults ( ***spoiler alert** one being his DNA being left on the sheets after the murder and they have sex). It is quite repetitive in places, and the plot eventually becomes a skeleton from which to hang all the kink.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
However, if you're into erotophonophilia - (make sure you read the TWs because they're not in the book) - and are ok that the couple committing the crimes did so because it was their 'right' as revenge and you desperately want them to have a HAE, then this is for you. Personally, I might have felt a lot less conflicted if the story had ended with a cop car pulling up to arrest the pair of them.
With all that said, it's a well written story, that makes a great attempt at a plot, though the details for the perfect murder had many faults ( ***spoiler alert** one being his DNA being left on the sheets after the murder and they have sex). It is quite repetitive in places, and the plot eventually becomes a skeleton from which to hang all the kink.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2024
When I think of someone going into the system, it makes me believe that they should be opening up to a second chance. A new life after the one they originally had was closed off to them. Instead of finding that, our two main characters have instead found a family that uses and abuses the children brought into the home, twisting them into virtual shells of their former selves.
Unless they beat the system and grow stronger for it.
Who would have thought out of the darkness would come a light? Granted, a much darker light than you might assume. One small tether to keep our two main characters together: one as the role of protector, the other in the role of prey, with only one wish between them. To survive it together.
Sure, they've grown up these last years as brother and sister. But that does not make them so. That dark attraction has grown considerably, twisting from the innocence of "I will protect you" to "I will kill for you". And it just.. keeps... going.
Read the triggers. There are certain things no one wants to read about, though admittedly for me, this is one of Selena's tamer books ;)
Unless they beat the system and grow stronger for it.
Who would have thought out of the darkness would come a light? Granted, a much darker light than you might assume. One small tether to keep our two main characters together: one as the role of protector, the other in the role of prey, with only one wish between them. To survive it together.
Sure, they've grown up these last years as brother and sister. But that does not make them so. That dark attraction has grown considerably, twisting from the innocence of "I will protect you" to "I will kill for you". And it just.. keeps... going.
Read the triggers. There are certain things no one wants to read about, though admittedly for me, this is one of Selena's tamer books ;)
March 13, 2025
If your friend recommended this book
They are NOT your friend.
Anyone who rated this book anything more than a 2 star MAX is not to be trusted.
The plot is the same recycled plot I’ve seen dozens of times but what makes this one particularly worse than others is the HORRID writing. I’m pretty sure I counted the phrase “arched her back.” 6 times within 3 pages of the book.
The book jumps timelines every other page, lacks serious details of the storyline but then continuously repeats the same thing over and over and over again.
Speaking of storyline, it wasn’t even realistic and made no sense. “Oh the police are catching on we need to get out of here before they put 2 and 2 together but then proceeds to sign up for college in the state they’re running to as if the police couldn’t locate them immediately just based off of that.
Not to mention the age gap and when he hints at having feelings for her when she was as young as 12 and he’s bordering adulthood???. There’s a difference between taboo and (I’m not going to say the word and risk my review getting taken down) but you should catch my drift.
If I could rate it 0 stars I would.
They are NOT your friend.
Anyone who rated this book anything more than a 2 star MAX is not to be trusted.
The plot is the same recycled plot I’ve seen dozens of times but what makes this one particularly worse than others is the HORRID writing. I’m pretty sure I counted the phrase “arched her back.” 6 times within 3 pages of the book.
The book jumps timelines every other page, lacks serious details of the storyline but then continuously repeats the same thing over and over and over again.
Speaking of storyline, it wasn’t even realistic and made no sense. “Oh the police are catching on we need to get out of here before they put 2 and 2 together but then proceeds to sign up for college in the state they’re running to as if the police couldn’t locate them immediately just based off of that.
Not to mention the age gap and when he hints at having feelings for her when she was as young as 12 and he’s bordering adulthood???. There’s a difference between taboo and (I’m not going to say the word and risk my review getting taken down) but you should catch my drift.
If I could rate it 0 stars I would.
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