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Captives of the Onyx Brotherhood #3
Deadly Rival
I've waited ten years to punish her.
Ophelia, the Calder family’s untouchable princess, drove my sister to take her own life. Now I'm taking hers - and I'm going to make her my obedient little pet. All brothers must choose a Ward, and she’ll be mine. Forever.
She'll dance at the end of my leash while her father's spies report every humiliating detail back to him. And when he comes for me, the Brotherhood will wipe him off the map.
A perfect plan. Except it isn't.
When Randall Calder demands my head in a box and the Brotherhood gives it serious consideration, I realize I've miscalculated. Now, my only hope for survival lies in the girl I've stripped bare, body and soul.
Ophelia, the Calder family’s untouchable princess, drove my sister to take her own life. Now I'm taking hers - and I'm going to make her my obedient little pet. All brothers must choose a Ward, and she’ll be mine. Forever.
She'll dance at the end of my leash while her father's spies report every humiliating detail back to him. And when he comes for me, the Brotherhood will wipe him off the map.
A perfect plan. Except it isn't.
When Randall Calder demands my head in a box and the Brotherhood gives it serious consideration, I realize I've miscalculated. Now, my only hope for survival lies in the girl I've stripped bare, body and soul.
ebook
Published March 31, 2025
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248 people want to read
About the author
Zara J. Black
9 books249 followersZara began writing in her thirties after reading a series of “fade to black” fantasy books and wondering why the hell the author didn’t make them smuttier.
Challenge, accepted.
She loves creating magical fantasy worlds, turbulent relationships and dark, kinky heroes (who could be villains if you squint a bit.)
When she’s not thinking up ways to torment her characters, Zara lives on the beautiful Gold Coast, Australia with two kiddos and a husband who make her real life far more magical than her stories.
Challenge, accepted.
She loves creating magical fantasy worlds, turbulent relationships and dark, kinky heroes (who could be villains if you squint a bit.)
When she’s not thinking up ways to torment her characters, Zara lives on the beautiful Gold Coast, Australia with two kiddos and a husband who make her real life far more magical than her stories.
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April 5, 2025DNF This book has 2 things that I’m not crazy about- secret society and characters that come across as too young. The H is out for revenge but he has to be coached by his friends as to how to be a badass alpha.
March 27, 2025
Omg! I absolutely love this series! It’s so good I can’t put it down!
September 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Well Zara you have done it again I absolutely loved this book from start to finish. I loved watching sebs and Ophelia’s relationship grow through out the book. I loved how we got to see how the other characters from the first 2 books are going. If your after a dark book this series is for you please check trigger warning before reading
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Well Zara you have done it again I absolutely loved this book from start to finish. I loved watching sebs and Ophelia’s relationship grow through out the book. I loved how we got to see how the other characters from the first 2 books are going. If your after a dark book this series is for you please check trigger warning before reading
February 26, 2025
Ohhhhhhkkkkkaaaayyyyy Zara ..... you got me good!!!!!! Sebastian takes Ophelia as his ward and she is every bit the rival Calder princess. Being daddy's little girl she is staking all her hope that her father cares about her and will use all his resources to save her. Why Sebastian selected her more for revenge than to prove a point. For a genius he's loosing his own logic in his training to make Ophelia the compliant pet and Ward he needs her to be.
As the story unravels Ophelia discovers so much of her family's hidden agendas and secrets she was left to discover. The compound always seems to have infiltration by the Calder minions. Ophelia finds herself between the freedom she once knew under daddy's rules or the confinement of the compound ....
This series is full of unhinged thinking with the spice levels that will have you clenching yout thighs and questioning your morals. ✨️📚✨️
As the story unravels Ophelia discovers so much of her family's hidden agendas and secrets she was left to discover. The compound always seems to have infiltration by the Calder minions. Ophelia finds herself between the freedom she once knew under daddy's rules or the confinement of the compound ....
This series is full of unhinged thinking with the spice levels that will have you clenching yout thighs and questioning your morals. ✨️📚✨️
January 25, 2025
ARC Review
Okay, I know I said I loved the other two in this series, but Seb is everything! He's nothing you expect, and omg Ophelia having her darker side flare and help her blossom. Also, these FMCs are fiesty and so damn brave. If I could forget everything from these books and read them for the first time, I would because amazing and their darkness just keeps getting darker. I have gone in blind each time with no regret, but if you have triggers, please check them.
Okay, I know I said I loved the other two in this series, but Seb is everything! He's nothing you expect, and omg Ophelia having her darker side flare and help her blossom. Also, these FMCs are fiesty and so damn brave. If I could forget everything from these books and read them for the first time, I would because amazing and their darkness just keeps getting darker. I have gone in blind each time with no regret, but if you have triggers, please check them.
February 1, 2025
Wow, just wow….devoured the first two and this one was just spectacular!!! Zara J. Black, you have done it again! Thank you!!
May 3, 2025
OUTSTANDING
Such an intense read. It had me on edge all the way until the end, and it's labeled with an HEA. Sound silly? Nope. Just that great of read. CotOB are my first reads by this author and I am just blown away. Highly original! I rec the book, series, and author.
Dual POV
CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE!
Such an intense read. It had me on edge all the way until the end, and it's labeled with an HEA. Sound silly? Nope. Just that great of read. CotOB are my first reads by this author and I am just blown away. Highly original! I rec the book, series, and author.
Dual POV
CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE!
March 9, 2025
Again absolutely loving this series. Seb is just so different but good different and i loved seeing his pet Ophelia grow into herself.
And the bond between the girls Ophelia, Quinn and Eve is great.
And the bond between the girls Ophelia, Quinn and Eve is great.
March 31, 2025
This book was trash not at all like the other great books in the series. He took her revenge and then proceeds to dress her like slutty trash. He is pathetic. And mild pet play is a lie he puts her in a collar with a leash and makes her sleep on the floor disgusting!
It never gets good
It never gets good
February 24, 2025
Every book just keeps getting better and better!
I was lucky enough to ARC read this and was hooked from the start.
I wasn't sure what to expect from Sebastian, but what we got was perfect. He and Ophelia work so well together and the way the story played out fit really well in my opinion.
I also loved seeing the previous couples and getting to see the friendship group grow.
I was lucky enough to ARC read this and was hooked from the start.
I wasn't sure what to expect from Sebastian, but what we got was perfect. He and Ophelia work so well together and the way the story played out fit really well in my opinion.
I also loved seeing the previous couples and getting to see the friendship group grow.
April 1, 2025
Firstly how beautiful is the cover to this book the whole series upto now the covers are stunning.
Now on to the book omg 😲 I really can't decide who is my favourite from this and the previous books
Seb is everything rolled into one and definitely not what you think
This story has you gripped from the beginning right through to the end
5 🌟
medium burn
I can't wait for more
Now on to the book omg 😲 I really can't decide who is my favourite from this and the previous books
Seb is everything rolled into one and definitely not what you think
This story has you gripped from the beginning right through to the end
5 🌟
medium burn
I can't wait for more
January 29, 2025
ARC reviews
Third book of the series and didn’t disappoint. Honestly couldn’t put the book down it was that good! Loved the story line and the spice. Love how you still get to hear about past characters and get glimpse of what they are doing after their story. Honestly can’t wait to read the next one.
Third book of the series and didn’t disappoint. Honestly couldn’t put the book down it was that good! Loved the story line and the spice. Love how you still get to hear about past characters and get glimpse of what they are doing after their story. Honestly can’t wait to read the next one.
March 13, 2025
Another sexy story by Zara Black! I highly recommend reading the first two books in the series before this one.
I enjoyed the characters, especially Seb! He was such a (twisted) sweetie! I wish we had got a bit more of his background though.
Heads up, this is a dark romance, and is full of trigger warnings so check them out before you read it.
I enjoyed the characters, especially Seb! He was such a (twisted) sweetie! I wish we had got a bit more of his background though.
Heads up, this is a dark romance, and is full of trigger warnings so check them out before you read it.
February 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dark, Addictive, and Full of Tension
Zara J. Black delivers another gripping installment in Brutal Savior, blending high-stakes action, emotional turmoil, and sizzling chemistry. This book continues the dark and dangerous world of the series, following Seb and Ophelia as they navigate secrets, betrayals, and undeniable attraction.
🔥 Tropes & Things I Enjoyed:
📖 Third book in the series – Should be read in order for full impact!
👫 Lots of past characters – If you loved the first two books, you’ll be happy to see familiar faces.
🔗 Captor/Captive – Forced proximity, danger, and sizzling tension.
🎭 Secret Society – Dark conspiracies and high stakes.
⛓️ Strong BDSM elements – (Pet/owner dynamic).
👑 Strong female MC – Ophelia comes from a mafia/organized crime family.
❤️🔥 Enemies to lovers – The tension is real!
⚖️ Revenge & punishment – A game of power and control.
💔 Tragic backstories – Both characters have pasts that shape their choices.
Honestly, this book was probably my least favorite of the three—though still fantastic. Maybe I’m biased because I’m still swooning over Jacob and Gabriel. Gabriel was utterly obsessed with his ward (which I loved), and Jacob’s calculating mind and deadly precision made him irresistible.
Seb, who was amazing in previous books, came off a little indecisive here. However, Ophelia was a standout! I adore all the women in this series, and her backstory was well-developed, making her connection with Seb feel raw and believable. Plus, the spice? Top-tier. 🔥
I cannot wait for Hadrian’s book. This series deserves all the love, and I just know the character art is going to be incredible. If you haven’t started reading yet, do it now—you’ll fall head over heels just like I did!
Thank Zara for the ARC and this is my honest review!
Dark, Addictive, and Full of Tension
Zara J. Black delivers another gripping installment in Brutal Savior, blending high-stakes action, emotional turmoil, and sizzling chemistry. This book continues the dark and dangerous world of the series, following Seb and Ophelia as they navigate secrets, betrayals, and undeniable attraction.
🔥 Tropes & Things I Enjoyed:
📖 Third book in the series – Should be read in order for full impact!
👫 Lots of past characters – If you loved the first two books, you’ll be happy to see familiar faces.
🔗 Captor/Captive – Forced proximity, danger, and sizzling tension.
🎭 Secret Society – Dark conspiracies and high stakes.
⛓️ Strong BDSM elements – (Pet/owner dynamic).
👑 Strong female MC – Ophelia comes from a mafia/organized crime family.
❤️🔥 Enemies to lovers – The tension is real!
⚖️ Revenge & punishment – A game of power and control.
💔 Tragic backstories – Both characters have pasts that shape their choices.
Honestly, this book was probably my least favorite of the three—though still fantastic. Maybe I’m biased because I’m still swooning over Jacob and Gabriel. Gabriel was utterly obsessed with his ward (which I loved), and Jacob’s calculating mind and deadly precision made him irresistible.
Seb, who was amazing in previous books, came off a little indecisive here. However, Ophelia was a standout! I adore all the women in this series, and her backstory was well-developed, making her connection with Seb feel raw and believable. Plus, the spice? Top-tier. 🔥
I cannot wait for Hadrian’s book. This series deserves all the love, and I just know the character art is going to be incredible. If you haven’t started reading yet, do it now—you’ll fall head over heels just like I did!
Thank Zara for the ARC and this is my honest review!
January 30, 2025
Now first thing first, I said this in my review of book 2 but a reminder that these books are morally black. The series itself is called Captives of the Onyx Brotherhood. So if that not your cup of tea then that’s okay, however, if you are a dark-romance lover who loves a possessive morally black MMC with a forced proximity and enemies to lover trope then these books are for you!
This book may be my favorite of the series so far! OMG! Sebastian and Ophelia are childhood enemies and Sebastian has been plotting his revenge against her for a long time. Deciding that she would be his ward, despite being a mafia princess Sebastian brings her to The Compound and chaos ensues. Unable to return to her life as she knew it and filled with guilt from their childhood past, Ophelia has two options; get on board or get on board.
As she patiently waits for her Mob Father and Mafioso Brother to come rescue her from Sebastian's clutches, she begins to learn more about her family & about life at The Compound. While Sebastian is busy dealing resistance and new enemies within the brotherhood and more secrets of the past unravel...
Enduring all of Sebastian's punishments, biding her time and forging a key alliance, this books leaves you on the edge of your seat. Can Ophelia make it out?
While this could be read as a standalone. I’d highly recommend reading this series in order as it provides a more in depth understanding to this world, and the side characters that appear within this story. Please review your trigger warnings.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book may be my favorite of the series so far! OMG! Sebastian and Ophelia are childhood enemies and Sebastian has been plotting his revenge against her for a long time. Deciding that she would be his ward, despite being a mafia princess Sebastian brings her to The Compound and chaos ensues. Unable to return to her life as she knew it and filled with guilt from their childhood past, Ophelia has two options; get on board or get on board.
As she patiently waits for her Mob Father and Mafioso Brother to come rescue her from Sebastian's clutches, she begins to learn more about her family & about life at The Compound. While Sebastian is busy dealing resistance and new enemies within the brotherhood and more secrets of the past unravel...
Enduring all of Sebastian's punishments, biding her time and forging a key alliance, this books leaves you on the edge of your seat. Can Ophelia make it out?
While this could be read as a standalone. I’d highly recommend reading this series in order as it provides a more in depth understanding to this world, and the side characters that appear within this story. Please review your trigger warnings.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2025
Arc reader Honest review
Tropes and things I enjoyed
✅ Third book in series. (Should be read in order as there are characters and spoilers from previous books).
✅ If you love the first two books as much as I did you’ll be happy to know there is a lot of those character in this book.
✅ Captor/Captive
✅ Secret Society
✅ Strong elements of BDSM (Pet/owner)
✅ Strong female MC (She comes from Mafia/Organized Crime family)
✅ Enemies to lovers
✅ Revenge/punishment
✅ Tragic Backstories
Honestly this book was probably my least favorite of the three, even though it was great. I feel kinda bias because I’m still absolutely swooning over Jacob and Gabriel. Gabriel was so head over heels for his ward, and I am a sucker for obsessive men. Jacob was so controlling and smart, and I always swoon for a man who knows his way around a gun fight. Seb was awesome in every other book, but be can off a little indecisive in this one. However I really liked Ophelia! I actually I love all the women in these series! Ophelia’s back story was well written and her reasoning for entertaining Seb was touching. The spice in this one was also top tier.
I can’t wait for Hadrians book. I also REALLY can’t wait for this series to take off because it’s absolutely fantastic and it deserves all the love! I especially can’t wait for all the character art, because I love all of these characters and this world. I know having the visuals to these characters it’s going so good. So please hurry up and read this series, and fall head over heels with it the way I have!
Tropes and things I enjoyed
✅ Third book in series. (Should be read in order as there are characters and spoilers from previous books).
✅ If you love the first two books as much as I did you’ll be happy to know there is a lot of those character in this book.
✅ Captor/Captive
✅ Secret Society
✅ Strong elements of BDSM (Pet/owner)
✅ Strong female MC (She comes from Mafia/Organized Crime family)
✅ Enemies to lovers
✅ Revenge/punishment
✅ Tragic Backstories
Honestly this book was probably my least favorite of the three, even though it was great. I feel kinda bias because I’m still absolutely swooning over Jacob and Gabriel. Gabriel was so head over heels for his ward, and I am a sucker for obsessive men. Jacob was so controlling and smart, and I always swoon for a man who knows his way around a gun fight. Seb was awesome in every other book, but be can off a little indecisive in this one. However I really liked Ophelia! I actually I love all the women in these series! Ophelia’s back story was well written and her reasoning for entertaining Seb was touching. The spice in this one was also top tier.
I can’t wait for Hadrians book. I also REALLY can’t wait for this series to take off because it’s absolutely fantastic and it deserves all the love! I especially can’t wait for all the character art, because I love all of these characters and this world. I know having the visuals to these characters it’s going so good. So please hurry up and read this series, and fall head over heels with it the way I have!
April 15, 2025
“He thought he’d die for me today, but I chose life for us both. He kisses my forehead, and I close my eyes. He feels like home.”
Tropes:
- Secret Society
- Captor/Captive
- Forced Proximity
- Enemies to Lovers
- Revenge
This series hasn’t let me down! I have loved every single book and cannot pick a favorite!!
Sebastian, the MMC, is part of the Onyx Brotherhood, a secret society. In exchange for a lifetime of backed research and work, he must live on the grounds of the Brotherhood’s compound, and take a woman as his Ward. He has planned his capture of Ophelia, the Calder princess, for years.
Ophelia Calder, the FMC, has the picture perfect life. She’s a spoiled daddy’s girl who has gotten everything she wants in life handed to her on a silver platter. Or so it seems from the outside looking in. When the older brother of the girl she use to bully in high school kidnaps her, her whole life changes.
I love that no matter how hard he tried, Seb could never be as stern as he was told he needed to be. After realizing he may have had things wrong, could Ophelia forgive him?
Zara does such a great job of showing how close the friendships are in this series. In such an odd arrangement, they have managed to create their own sense of family.
I cannot wait for Hadrian’s book!
Tropes:
- Secret Society
- Captor/Captive
- Forced Proximity
- Enemies to Lovers
- Revenge
This series hasn’t let me down! I have loved every single book and cannot pick a favorite!!
Sebastian, the MMC, is part of the Onyx Brotherhood, a secret society. In exchange for a lifetime of backed research and work, he must live on the grounds of the Brotherhood’s compound, and take a woman as his Ward. He has planned his capture of Ophelia, the Calder princess, for years.
Ophelia Calder, the FMC, has the picture perfect life. She’s a spoiled daddy’s girl who has gotten everything she wants in life handed to her on a silver platter. Or so it seems from the outside looking in. When the older brother of the girl she use to bully in high school kidnaps her, her whole life changes.
I love that no matter how hard he tried, Seb could never be as stern as he was told he needed to be. After realizing he may have had things wrong, could Ophelia forgive him?
Zara does such a great job of showing how close the friendships are in this series. In such an odd arrangement, they have managed to create their own sense of family.
I cannot wait for Hadrian’s book!
January 30, 2025
I was able to read this one as my third ARC from Zara J Black and again- I was NOT disappointed. I have no idea how Zara keeps the quality up and continues to write hit after hit. I was excited about the previous book, with Quinn being such a smartass, so I was worried this one wouldn’t live up to the sass. Turns out I didn’t need the sass to love Ophelia and Sebastian.
Ophelia has been told what to do her ENTIRE LIFE, but at least now, the person controlling her life actually gives a shit about her. The way this started off as punishment for Ophelia and gradually turned into caring was such a great way to spin it.
I really appreciate Zara didn’t rush into them falling in love. There were no “I love you”s and that just fits their storyline. Maybe someday they can be in love, but it didn’t fit the timeline and it made me like this one even more.
I also have to say that if the goal was to draw out emotions when it came to Harrison talking about Maggie, mission accomplished. I teared up and screamed when Harrison described sleeping with Maggie to Seb. RIP Maggie. Bitch bye, Harrison.
Ophelia has been told what to do her ENTIRE LIFE, but at least now, the person controlling her life actually gives a shit about her. The way this started off as punishment for Ophelia and gradually turned into caring was such a great way to spin it.
I really appreciate Zara didn’t rush into them falling in love. There were no “I love you”s and that just fits their storyline. Maybe someday they can be in love, but it didn’t fit the timeline and it made me like this one even more.
I also have to say that if the goal was to draw out emotions when it came to Harrison talking about Maggie, mission accomplished. I teared up and screamed when Harrison described sleeping with Maggie to Seb. RIP Maggie. Bitch bye, Harrison.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2025
This book was another amazing read in the series. This was darker than the first 2 in the series, especially since the FMC is a mafia princess. And as always, check your trigger warnings.
When Sebastian shows up to the Compound with his chosen ward in tow, it sends a shock and fear through the entire Compound and every Brother. Sebastian chose Ophelia, which is a mafia princess, in order to get revenge because he she is responsible for his sister's death. Kidnapping Ophelia has put a target on the Brotherhood and their families living outside the Compound. The Brotherhood Council has decided that if Sebastian can't get Ophelia to complete the ceremony within 10 days, she gets to go home to her family with Sebastian's head in a box. Ophelia is his captive and will live that way as long as she is there, but she feels more free with Sebastian than she does in the real world under her father's control. She is fighting her own feelings of being kidnapped and feeling free at the same time. Sebastian now has to place his life in her hands and hope she chooses him.
When Sebastian shows up to the Compound with his chosen ward in tow, it sends a shock and fear through the entire Compound and every Brother. Sebastian chose Ophelia, which is a mafia princess, in order to get revenge because he she is responsible for his sister's death. Kidnapping Ophelia has put a target on the Brotherhood and their families living outside the Compound. The Brotherhood Council has decided that if Sebastian can't get Ophelia to complete the ceremony within 10 days, she gets to go home to her family with Sebastian's head in a box. Ophelia is his captive and will live that way as long as she is there, but she feels more free with Sebastian than she does in the real world under her father's control. She is fighting her own feelings of being kidnapped and feeling free at the same time. Sebastian now has to place his life in her hands and hope she chooses him.
March 8, 2025
Sebastian chooses Ophelia as his ward, but only to punish her for her part in causing his sister's death. Only, he may have bitten off way more than he can chew.
This entire series really is beautifully written. It's lovely how each book can stand alone, yet they're all interwoven, building the world and characters so cleverly. It's great to see the characters, both old and new, develop so richly. Sebastian and Ophelia are definitely more than meets the eye. Sebastian might seem cold at first, but it's wonderful to see his personality unfold as the story goes on. And Ophelia, initially appearing nasty and driven by her own desires, reveals so much more beneath the surface.
Oh, that last scene for Sebastian and Ophelia is absolutely smoking hot, and the introduction to chemical play is well done. While this is slow burn, the spice is excellent not over done and doesn't detract from the storyline/plot.
That small taste of Harridans upcoming story sounds absolutely delish, but yes, I'm eagerly awaiting Daddy Kendrick's book too! *swoon*.
This entire series really is beautifully written. It's lovely how each book can stand alone, yet they're all interwoven, building the world and characters so cleverly. It's great to see the characters, both old and new, develop so richly. Sebastian and Ophelia are definitely more than meets the eye. Sebastian might seem cold at first, but it's wonderful to see his personality unfold as the story goes on. And Ophelia, initially appearing nasty and driven by her own desires, reveals so much more beneath the surface.
Oh, that last scene for Sebastian and Ophelia is absolutely smoking hot, and the introduction to chemical play is well done. While this is slow burn, the spice is excellent not over done and doesn't detract from the storyline/plot.
That small taste of Harridans upcoming story sounds absolutely delish, but yes, I'm eagerly awaiting Daddy Kendrick's book too! *swoon*.
March 28, 2025
Deadly Rival is a wonderful next book in the Onyx Brotherhood series. Jacob and Quinn remain my favorite couple - and we still get a splash of their dynamic in this book - but I enjoyed learning more about Sebastian and his Ophelia. I was surprised by Ophelia's light body modification toward the beginning of her time in the Compound, which added a bit of a darker quality to things, but I'm glad we've started exploring some darker content. I want to see a picture of her hair so badly! It sounds gorgeous. I don't know if the owner/pet dynamic feels fitting for these characters, but I also don't know what else might be. What I do appreciate is the difference each dynamic has, and that we get to grow with all of the characters as the series progresses. I've heard the next book gets very dark and twisted. As someone who loves a good mindfuck, I can't wait to continue this journey!
(P.S. - What happens with Sebastian is fucking devastating.)
(P.P.S. - I think everyone wants some of that hot salve.)
(P.S. - What happens with Sebastian is fucking devastating.)
(P.P.S. - I think everyone wants some of that hot salve.)
April 9, 2025
Love this series. Was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for Zara in exchange for a truthful review and the truth is this series is awesome.
Sebastian and Ophelia’s book did not disappoint nor did their captor/ward story.
She was chosen for revenge, due to her hurting someone from his past. The only problem was she was the daughter of one of their biggest enemies and now he took her, the brotherhood were not happy.
The captor/ward dynamic was still there only this time Sebastian used her mercilessly to exact vengeance for Ophelia’s treatment of his sister when they were younger.
Ophelia wants out and is waiting for her father to storm in and get her out. Or for the brotherhood to hand her back over and save themselves.
Over time both Sebastian and Ophelia are told some hard truths about their past and their families that bring them closer together and have Ophelia reconsider staying with Sebastian rather than escape.
But what’s more important….. family that you were born into or family that you were brought into and finding a place you truly belong????
Sebastian and Ophelia’s book did not disappoint nor did their captor/ward story.
She was chosen for revenge, due to her hurting someone from his past. The only problem was she was the daughter of one of their biggest enemies and now he took her, the brotherhood were not happy.
The captor/ward dynamic was still there only this time Sebastian used her mercilessly to exact vengeance for Ophelia’s treatment of his sister when they were younger.
Ophelia wants out and is waiting for her father to storm in and get her out. Or for the brotherhood to hand her back over and save themselves.
Over time both Sebastian and Ophelia are told some hard truths about their past and their families that bring them closer together and have Ophelia reconsider staying with Sebastian rather than escape.
But what’s more important….. family that you were born into or family that you were brought into and finding a place you truly belong????
February 3, 2025
The best to date! You cannot miss this book as it has everything - action, mystery, mafia romance, morally grey heroes, and so much spice! Zara surpasses all her previous ones!
The story is a master stroke in tension, seduction and raw, unrelenting emotion - the chemistry between Seb and Ophelia is like an electric current - dangerous, unpredictable, and utterly intoxicating. The blend of searing hatred slowly morphing into an undeniable, all-consuming desire is masterfully written.
And there is a lot of action - relentless, full of dangers, secrets and betrayals. Every twist leaves you breathless, wanting more, and Zara delivers. The thriller elements make the book impossible to put down.
And the spice? Scorching! Their passion is as fierce as their hatred, igniting the pages with dark and desperate scenes where love is a weapon and a weakness.
If you crave a beautiful and brutal romance, as thrilling as it is seductive, definitely read this book! Highly recommend!
The story is a master stroke in tension, seduction and raw, unrelenting emotion - the chemistry between Seb and Ophelia is like an electric current - dangerous, unpredictable, and utterly intoxicating. The blend of searing hatred slowly morphing into an undeniable, all-consuming desire is masterfully written.
And there is a lot of action - relentless, full of dangers, secrets and betrayals. Every twist leaves you breathless, wanting more, and Zara delivers. The thriller elements make the book impossible to put down.
And the spice? Scorching! Their passion is as fierce as their hatred, igniting the pages with dark and desperate scenes where love is a weapon and a weakness.
If you crave a beautiful and brutal romance, as thrilling as it is seductive, definitely read this book! Highly recommend!
March 14, 2025
Deadly Rivals
Captives of the Onyx Brotherhood Book 3
By Zara J. Black
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶
🖤 Secret Society
🩻 Revenge is a dish best served Cold
🖤 Mafia princess FMC
🩻 K¡dnapping
🖤 War of sorts
🩻 Master and his Pet
🖤 Enemies to lovers
Book three is off to a bang when Seb sets his mind on sweet cold Revenge for his Sisters demise years prior, and who better to serve it too than the main culprit of the mean girl squad responsible for pushing her over the edge? Ophelia, the Mafia princess who has it all.. or does she?
Seb has his one track mind set so focused on his plan that he didn't think it was possible that maybe there was more to her that meets the eye, and quite possible that her family that is very well known to the Brotherhood could be hiding even more secrets about his sisters past that meets the eye.
This was an incredible read and I absolutely cannot wait for Hadrians book up next 😍
Deadly Rival releases March 31st 😘🖤
Captives of the Onyx Brotherhood Book 3
By Zara J. Black
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶🌶
🖤 Secret Society
🩻 Revenge is a dish best served Cold
🖤 Mafia princess FMC
🩻 K¡dnapping
🖤 War of sorts
🩻 Master and his Pet
🖤 Enemies to lovers
Book three is off to a bang when Seb sets his mind on sweet cold Revenge for his Sisters demise years prior, and who better to serve it too than the main culprit of the mean girl squad responsible for pushing her over the edge? Ophelia, the Mafia princess who has it all.. or does she?
Seb has his one track mind set so focused on his plan that he didn't think it was possible that maybe there was more to her that meets the eye, and quite possible that her family that is very well known to the Brotherhood could be hiding even more secrets about his sisters past that meets the eye.
This was an incredible read and I absolutely cannot wait for Hadrians book up next 😍
Deadly Rival releases March 31st 😘🖤
March 26, 2025
Deadly Rival is book three of the Captives of the Onyx Brotherhood.
After reading the ending to the second book I was super excited to read this one, and it did not disappoint. Seb wants his revenge on the Calder family and he is going to get it through Ophelia. Both characters goes through such transformative character arcs.
Seb isn't very dominant and has to get some tips from his brothers. But by the end he really knows his way around being super dominant. Ophelia doesn't really have an identity besides being the daughter of a Calder. She kind of just has to do whatever her family demands of her and she doesn't really know who she truly is. By being with Seb it gives her a chance to break out of her shell and figure out who she truly is - her likes and dislikes.
This was masterfully written and I really like seeing the integration of every character throughout the story with regards to their lives in the brotherhood.
After reading the ending to the second book I was super excited to read this one, and it did not disappoint. Seb wants his revenge on the Calder family and he is going to get it through Ophelia. Both characters goes through such transformative character arcs.
Seb isn't very dominant and has to get some tips from his brothers. But by the end he really knows his way around being super dominant. Ophelia doesn't really have an identity besides being the daughter of a Calder. She kind of just has to do whatever her family demands of her and she doesn't really know who she truly is. By being with Seb it gives her a chance to break out of her shell and figure out who she truly is - her likes and dislikes.
This was masterfully written and I really like seeing the integration of every character throughout the story with regards to their lives in the brotherhood.
October 16, 2025
Seb was the comedic relief in the other books in the series, so I found it strange that there was nary a chuckle in this one until the end. As if the author finally recalled his characterization.
He’s almost as heavy handed and ruthless as Jacob except without any real plan or means to an end other than a flimsy sense of justice.
It’s all very messy.
It’s as if he can’t help but make it so, but theres no satisfaction in it for anyone really.
Especially the reader.
Even when he finally turns his brain on after being humbled, he’s like, ‘Well, I’m still going to abuse her under the pretense of genuine punishment because it’s fun for me.’
Hello??
I was looking forward to this one but I had a hard time even liking either of them after a while.
Ophelia had potential but she was boring after she got dickmatized.
The first book is still the best and I fear it will remain so even as the series progresses.
He’s almost as heavy handed and ruthless as Jacob except without any real plan or means to an end other than a flimsy sense of justice.
It’s all very messy.
It’s as if he can’t help but make it so, but theres no satisfaction in it for anyone really.
Especially the reader.
Even when he finally turns his brain on after being humbled, he’s like, ‘Well, I’m still going to abuse her under the pretense of genuine punishment because it’s fun for me.’
Hello??
I was looking forward to this one but I had a hard time even liking either of them after a while.
Ophelia had potential but she was boring after she got dickmatized.
The first book is still the best and I fear it will remain so even as the series progresses.
February 11, 2025
The third book in the series and it did not disappoint. These books just keep getting better and better the further through the series we get. I love Sebastian and it was nice to see more of him and his thoughts about the whole brotherhood and wards situation. Sebastian and Ophelia are a great couple and really bring out the best in each other and allow each other to explore sides of themselves they weren't necessarily aware were there before. I really enjoy how these books are completely different and separate stories but they still integrate the characters from the previous books so well, so we get to see how their relationships are progressing too. And I'm glad we got to see Quinn and Jacobs ceremony as well. I cannot wait to see what happens in Hadrian's story, it sounds very interesting
February 28, 2025
Zara has done it again. I was not sure how I was going to feel about Sebastian and his revenge plans, but He managed to win me over in the end. Each of these books sucks me in deeper, growing darker, and Sebastian was dark in ways that rubbed me the wrong way in the beginning, but slowly...very slowly won me over and now he is my favorite. Add in Ophelia and her ability to not only survive Sebastian but win him over, as well as the friendship that grows within the girl gang that is slowly growing with each new book.
I didn't just read the story I was sucked in and felt every emotion, every moment, ever word that wasn't written but meant. I will be honest, I am still recovering from the highs and lows of this book.
If you haven't read this book already, I recommend it as your next read. Sebastian and Ophelia will make you feel...everything.
I didn't just read the story I was sucked in and felt every emotion, every moment, ever word that wasn't written but meant. I will be honest, I am still recovering from the highs and lows of this book.
If you haven't read this book already, I recommend it as your next read. Sebastian and Ophelia will make you feel...everything.
April 13, 2025
A Must-Read Addition to the Captives of the Onyx Brotherhood Saga!
I absolutely love this series, and this latest instalment was everything I hoped for and more. One of my favourite things about this book (and really, the whole series) is getting to revisit familiar faces. Seeing how the characters from previous books interact in their everyday lives adds such a real, layered feel to the world Zara has built.
And okay, serious question: this hot salve... does it actually exist?? Asking for a friend, obviously.
The chemistry, the tension, the emotion—it’s all there. And that ending! Zara is a master at leaving you on the edge of your seat, desperate for the next book. It perfectly sets the stage for what’s to come, and I am so not ready (but also absolutely ready) for what happens next.
Another incredible peek inside the brotherhood. Keep them coming!
I absolutely love this series, and this latest instalment was everything I hoped for and more. One of my favourite things about this book (and really, the whole series) is getting to revisit familiar faces. Seeing how the characters from previous books interact in their everyday lives adds such a real, layered feel to the world Zara has built.
And okay, serious question: this hot salve... does it actually exist?? Asking for a friend, obviously.
The chemistry, the tension, the emotion—it’s all there. And that ending! Zara is a master at leaving you on the edge of your seat, desperate for the next book. It perfectly sets the stage for what’s to come, and I am so not ready (but also absolutely ready) for what happens next.
Another incredible peek inside the brotherhood. Keep them coming!
October 12, 2025
I loved this foray back into Captives of the Black Onyx Brotherhood, that cabal of twisted gentlemen who still somehow make us root for them against all of our better judgement, never mind feminism.
When Ophelia was introduced at the end of Brutal Savior as the target of Sebastian's revenge I was shocked and thought that @zara_j_black_author might have bitten off more than she could chew in terms of making this relationship redeemable. But, of course (shame on me for doubting!) it all came together beautifully.
My favorite part of this was the degree of choice that FMC Ophelia was given--far more than either of our previous FMCs. I also loved that Sebastian had so many non-traditional MMC characteristics, such as his ADHD. I was definitely cheering for this couple to succeed from early on, and I'm excited to continue exploring this weird, sexy world.
When Ophelia was introduced at the end of Brutal Savior as the target of Sebastian's revenge I was shocked and thought that @zara_j_black_author might have bitten off more than she could chew in terms of making this relationship redeemable. But, of course (shame on me for doubting!) it all came together beautifully.
My favorite part of this was the degree of choice that FMC Ophelia was given--far more than either of our previous FMCs. I also loved that Sebastian had so many non-traditional MMC characteristics, such as his ADHD. I was definitely cheering for this couple to succeed from early on, and I'm excited to continue exploring this weird, sexy world.
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