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Carnal Sins #3
A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty
Please hold while your three-way call is connected.
Fiery Dusty Connors has spent her life surviving instead of living. As a young girl, she dreamt of being an actress. Working as a fantasy phone girl might not be Hollywood, but at least it pays the bills. When a flirtatious bass player strolls into her life and wants to know the real her—not her sultry persona—she struggles to open her heart and trust again.
Carefree Joel Thanger is living his best life. He plays bass in a successful metal band, parties whenever he wants, and lives with his best friend, Key, who just so happens to enjoy sharing his dates. When a chance encounter reunites him with the gorgeous redhead of his dreams, he thinks he might want something more serious. But as an old rival re-enters their lives and threatens the success of the band with accusations of plagiarism, both new and old relationships are put to the test.
Key Prentiss is haunted by a past love he can’t escape, and rather than confide in Joel, he seeks out a much needed connection with a pay-by-the-minute phone girl. When the legitimacy of the songs he wrote for his first love are called into question, he desperately searches for a way to prove they’re his—even if that means searching for the girl who broke his heart.
As Joel and Key’s friendship is put to the test, they may be surprised to find just how much fate has been working behind the scenes to bring together a love they can share.
Fiery Dusty Connors has spent her life surviving instead of living. As a young girl, she dreamt of being an actress. Working as a fantasy phone girl might not be Hollywood, but at least it pays the bills. When a flirtatious bass player strolls into her life and wants to know the real her—not her sultry persona—she struggles to open her heart and trust again.
Carefree Joel Thanger is living his best life. He plays bass in a successful metal band, parties whenever he wants, and lives with his best friend, Key, who just so happens to enjoy sharing his dates. When a chance encounter reunites him with the gorgeous redhead of his dreams, he thinks he might want something more serious. But as an old rival re-enters their lives and threatens the success of the band with accusations of plagiarism, both new and old relationships are put to the test.
Key Prentiss is haunted by a past love he can’t escape, and rather than confide in Joel, he seeks out a much needed connection with a pay-by-the-minute phone girl. When the legitimacy of the songs he wrote for his first love are called into question, he desperately searches for a way to prove they’re his—even if that means searching for the girl who broke his heart.
As Joel and Key’s friendship is put to the test, they may be surprised to find just how much fate has been working behind the scenes to bring together a love they can share.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2025
9 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
April 14, 2025
3⭐️
the story was very entertaining and had a lot of good emotional aspects but i wish we had seen the three of them together more. the ending felt quite rushed and i think the book could’ve been paced a little better or had another few pages. overall an entertaining read with great characters!
the story was very entertaining and had a lot of good emotional aspects but i wish we had seen the three of them together more. the ending felt quite rushed and i think the book could’ve been paced a little better or had another few pages. overall an entertaining read with great characters!
April 11, 2025
3.75! as expected this was fun and silly and i had a great time. felt like the second half was a little rushed and it showed in the writing but i still enjoyed nonetheless!!
thank you to LH Blake and BookFunnel for an advanced copy !!!
thank you to LH Blake and BookFunnel for an advanced copy !!!
April 7, 2025
Saved the best for last. This third book in the trilogy about a metal band set in the 80s is the best yet. I was excited when I found out this book would feature Key & Joel who were great characters from the previous book. I have to admit I didn't love the phone scenes but I'm sure others will. I liked that it wasn't a traditional mfm and that you got to know each couple separately. The story is dual timeline and dual POV. My favorite character is Key and his backstory was fantastic and very emotional. I liked learning about all the little connections about how the band came to be. The author ties up a lot of ends in this one and brings the series full circle. We get to visit the side characters that we have gotten to know across the previous books. I'm excited to see what the author writes next.
April 16, 2025
After meeting in a Vegas "dance" club, the connection between Dusty and Joel goes much deeper than just a night of Sin City fun. But they part ways and two years later, chance brings them together once again, in a new city. She's no longer a dancer but is now using her skill set to fulfill fantasies over the phone. Once again, she starts connecting with a client on a level much deeper than you'd expect to over the phone lines.
Past and present storylines between multiple characters are interwoven in this book to create a high stakes, high stress but highly worthwhile book. Despite all that's going on, the characters are pretty funny, though trauma tends to do that and there's no shortage of trauma in this book either.
*I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Past and present storylines between multiple characters are interwoven in this book to create a high stakes, high stress but highly worthwhile book. Despite all that's going on, the characters are pretty funny, though trauma tends to do that and there's no shortage of trauma in this book either.
*I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
April 10, 2025
THANK YOU to the author, LH Blake and her team for an ARC in exchange for an honest review - out May 1, 2025!
So this is the third and final book in a trilogy that is MFM. And honestly, I was nervous with how this was going to be handled. The drama and backstory for one of the MMCs felt much stronger than the other insta-love MMC. But I think the author did a fantastic job at sticking the landing, and providing a suitable and satisfying HEA. Blake does a fantastic job at world building and character development throughout the whole trilogy. I highly recommend these books to anyone.
So this is the third and final book in a trilogy that is MFM. And honestly, I was nervous with how this was going to be handled. The drama and backstory for one of the MMCs felt much stronger than the other insta-love MMC. But I think the author did a fantastic job at sticking the landing, and providing a suitable and satisfying HEA. Blake does a fantastic job at world building and character development throughout the whole trilogy. I highly recommend these books to anyone.
May 2, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book and loved the characters! The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because I feel like at some points the insta-love was a little hard to believe, but overall I think that the backstory to the characters was so good.
May 7, 2025
ARC kindly provided for the author in exchange for an honest review
A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty became my favorite book in the series! I enjoyed so much how L.H. Blake toldtDusty, Key & Joel's story by interweaving the past with the present, choosing Key to tell his love story with Dusty, all the way to the present where it merges with Dusty & Joel's perspectives of that time. Also, I have to say, I always prefer my polyamory books to be MMF because I love the whole "my boyfriends are boyfriends" idea, BUT with Key & Joel the author gave me such a special connection without the need for it to be romantic that made me love everything about this book even more.
Dusty always had a complicated life due to her family circle and it broke my heart to read her as a girl who only wants love and the possibility of fulfilling her dreams of being an actress, especially because when I met that side of her, I already knew that something had prevented her from achieving that happiness, however, I love that she's a girl with a big heart, that despite her insecurities and the brokenness of her heart, she's able to encourage Joel when he needs it most, and to always be there for Baby when he calls her. Dusty has a sad personal story, she's a character who works in unconventional jobs throughout the book and who constantly feels like she has to prove she's more than what those jobs say she is, she's unable to see her true value beyond that too and It was very sad to see her struggling to push Joel away in the present, unable to be with Key during her youth, and learning the true reasons behind his break up.
Key also had a complicated past: he grew up in an extremely religious family that didn't understand him and mistreated him, he couldn't be a happy boy until Dusty appeared in his life and together they found a safe place to be themselves and dream together: his younger moments are sad sometimes, but they also let me see their more innocent side, Dusty's daring character and Key's sweet, loving and protective personality, that's why it was so painful to read when everything between them suddenly ends and he is completely destroyed. Also, I loved reading a bit about that change in his personality after everything he endured at the hands of his family, and I was also surprised to read the Key in the present who seeks to get away from that religious boy by bringing out his more dominant and aggressive side. Another thing I loved was reading his feelings toward Joel when he first met him and how he tried to protect him even when HE needed someone to take care of him too.
Joel became one of the loves of my life! A sweet, tender guy who isn't afraid to show his feelings, who always tries to support Key, lift his spirits in difficult times, and be there for him. He helps Dusty realize her worth, accepts and loves her just the way she is, and gives them both the chance to be happy again! I also loved getting to know a little about his relationship with his family (although I would have liked to see a little more of them), how he talks to his mom and how she cares for Key too. I also LOVED that he always referred to his friendship with Key as a bond of soulmates, where they both always seek each other's happiness.
In short, this book was a marvel with broken hearts, drama, sweet moments, and a few tears, with a very dynamic, entertaining plot and characters who became my obsession from the first book in the series.
🎸Key: 5/5
☎️Dusty: 5/5
🎸Joel: 5/5
☎️Plot: 5/5
🎸Love story: 5/5
☎️Secondary characters: 5/5
🎸Universe: 5/5
☎️Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty se convirtió en mi libro favorito de la serie! Disfruté muchísimo que L.H. Blake me contara la historia de Dusty, Key & Joel entrelazando el pasado con el presente, que eligiera a Key para contar su historia de amor con Dusty, hasta llegar al presente donde se une a los puntos de vista de Dusty & Joel sobre el presente. Además, tengo que decir que siempre prefiero que mis libros sobre poliamor sean MMF porque me encanta toda la idea de "mis novios son novios", PERO con Key & Joel la autora me dio una conexión tan especial sin necesidad de ser romántica que me hizo amar aún más todo sobre este libro.
Dusty siempre tuvo una vida complicada debido a su circulo familiar y me rompió el corazón leerla como una niña que solo quiere amor y la posibilidad de cumplir sus sueños de ser actriz, especialmente porque cuando conocí esa parte de ella, ya sabía que algo le había impedido lograr esa felicidad, sin embargo, me encanta que sea una chica con un gran corazón, que a pesar de sus inseguridades y de lo roto de su corazón sea capaz de darle ánimos a Joel cuando él más lo necesita, y de siempre estar ahí para Baby cuando la llama. Dusty tiene una historia personal bastante triste, es un personaje que tiene trabajos poco convencionales a lo largo del libro y que constantemente siente que tiene que demostrar que es más de lo que esos trabajos dicen de ella, no es capaz de ver su verdadero valor más allá de ello y fue muy triste verla luchando por alejar a Joel en el presente, sin poder estar con Key durante su juventud y conociendo las verdaderas razones detrás de su alejamiento.
Key también tuvo un pasado complicado: creció en una familia extremadamente religiosa que no lo entendía y lo maltrataba, y no pudo ser un chico feliz hasta que Dusty apareció en su vida y juntos encontraron un lugar seguro para ser ellos mismos y soñar junto al otro: sus momentos de juventud son tristes a veces, pero también me dejaron ver su lado más inocente, el carácter atrevido de Dusty y la personalidad dulce, amorosa y protectora de Key, por eso es que fue tan doloroso leer cuando todo entre ambos termina repentinamente y él queda completamente destruido. Además, me encantó leer un poco sobre ese cambio en su personalidad después de todo lo que soportó a manos de su familia, y también me sorprendió leer al Key del presente que busca alejarse de ese chico religioso sacando su lado más dominante y agresivo. Otra cosa que me encantó fue leer sus sentimientos hacia Joel cuando lo conoció por primera vez y como busco protegerlo aún cuando el mismo necesitaba que alguien cuidara de él.
Joel se convirtió en uno de los amores de mi vida! Un chico dulce, tierno y que no teme a demostrar lo que siente, que siempre está intentando apoyar a Key, levantarle el animo en los momentos complicados y estar ahí para él, que ayuda a Dusty a darse cuenta de lo mucho que vale, la acepta y ama tal cual es y que le da a ambos la posibilidad de ser felices de nuevo! También me encantó conocer un poco de la relación que tiene con su familia (aunque me hubiera gustado ver un poco más de ellos), como habla con su mamá y como ella se preocupa por Key también, además, AMÉ que siempre se refiriera a su amistad con Key como un vinculo de almas gemelas en el que ambos están buscando siempre la felicidad del otro.
En resumen, este libro fue una maravilla con corazones rotos, drama, momentos dulce, tiernos y unas cuantas lagrimas, con una trama muy dinámica, entretenida y personajes que se convirtieron mi obsesión desde el primer libro en la serie.
🎸Key: 5/5
☎️Dusty: 5/5
🎸Joel: 5/5
☎️Trama: 5/5
🎸Historias de amor: 5/5
☎️Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🎸Universo: 5/5
☎️Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty became my favorite book in the series! I enjoyed so much how L.H. Blake toldtDusty, Key & Joel's story by interweaving the past with the present, choosing Key to tell his love story with Dusty, all the way to the present where it merges with Dusty & Joel's perspectives of that time. Also, I have to say, I always prefer my polyamory books to be MMF because I love the whole "my boyfriends are boyfriends" idea, BUT with Key & Joel the author gave me such a special connection without the need for it to be romantic that made me love everything about this book even more.
Dusty always had a complicated life due to her family circle and it broke my heart to read her as a girl who only wants love and the possibility of fulfilling her dreams of being an actress, especially because when I met that side of her, I already knew that something had prevented her from achieving that happiness, however, I love that she's a girl with a big heart, that despite her insecurities and the brokenness of her heart, she's able to encourage Joel when he needs it most, and to always be there for Baby when he calls her. Dusty has a sad personal story, she's a character who works in unconventional jobs throughout the book and who constantly feels like she has to prove she's more than what those jobs say she is, she's unable to see her true value beyond that too and It was very sad to see her struggling to push Joel away in the present, unable to be with Key during her youth, and learning the true reasons behind his break up.
Key also had a complicated past: he grew up in an extremely religious family that didn't understand him and mistreated him, he couldn't be a happy boy until Dusty appeared in his life and together they found a safe place to be themselves and dream together: his younger moments are sad sometimes, but they also let me see their more innocent side, Dusty's daring character and Key's sweet, loving and protective personality, that's why it was so painful to read when everything between them suddenly ends and he is completely destroyed. Also, I loved reading a bit about that change in his personality after everything he endured at the hands of his family, and I was also surprised to read the Key in the present who seeks to get away from that religious boy by bringing out his more dominant and aggressive side. Another thing I loved was reading his feelings toward Joel when he first met him and how he tried to protect him even when HE needed someone to take care of him too.
Joel became one of the loves of my life! A sweet, tender guy who isn't afraid to show his feelings, who always tries to support Key, lift his spirits in difficult times, and be there for him. He helps Dusty realize her worth, accepts and loves her just the way she is, and gives them both the chance to be happy again! I also loved getting to know a little about his relationship with his family (although I would have liked to see a little more of them), how he talks to his mom and how she cares for Key too. I also LOVED that he always referred to his friendship with Key as a bond of soulmates, where they both always seek each other's happiness.
In short, this book was a marvel with broken hearts, drama, sweet moments, and a few tears, with a very dynamic, entertaining plot and characters who became my obsession from the first book in the series.
🎸Key: 5/5
☎️Dusty: 5/5
🎸Joel: 5/5
☎️Plot: 5/5
🎸Love story: 5/5
☎️Secondary characters: 5/5
🎸Universe: 5/5
☎️Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty se convirtió en mi libro favorito de la serie! Disfruté muchísimo que L.H. Blake me contara la historia de Dusty, Key & Joel entrelazando el pasado con el presente, que eligiera a Key para contar su historia de amor con Dusty, hasta llegar al presente donde se une a los puntos de vista de Dusty & Joel sobre el presente. Además, tengo que decir que siempre prefiero que mis libros sobre poliamor sean MMF porque me encanta toda la idea de "mis novios son novios", PERO con Key & Joel la autora me dio una conexión tan especial sin necesidad de ser romántica que me hizo amar aún más todo sobre este libro.
Dusty siempre tuvo una vida complicada debido a su circulo familiar y me rompió el corazón leerla como una niña que solo quiere amor y la posibilidad de cumplir sus sueños de ser actriz, especialmente porque cuando conocí esa parte de ella, ya sabía que algo le había impedido lograr esa felicidad, sin embargo, me encanta que sea una chica con un gran corazón, que a pesar de sus inseguridades y de lo roto de su corazón sea capaz de darle ánimos a Joel cuando él más lo necesita, y de siempre estar ahí para Baby cuando la llama. Dusty tiene una historia personal bastante triste, es un personaje que tiene trabajos poco convencionales a lo largo del libro y que constantemente siente que tiene que demostrar que es más de lo que esos trabajos dicen de ella, no es capaz de ver su verdadero valor más allá de ello y fue muy triste verla luchando por alejar a Joel en el presente, sin poder estar con Key durante su juventud y conociendo las verdaderas razones detrás de su alejamiento.
Key también tuvo un pasado complicado: creció en una familia extremadamente religiosa que no lo entendía y lo maltrataba, y no pudo ser un chico feliz hasta que Dusty apareció en su vida y juntos encontraron un lugar seguro para ser ellos mismos y soñar junto al otro: sus momentos de juventud son tristes a veces, pero también me dejaron ver su lado más inocente, el carácter atrevido de Dusty y la personalidad dulce, amorosa y protectora de Key, por eso es que fue tan doloroso leer cuando todo entre ambos termina repentinamente y él queda completamente destruido. Además, me encantó leer un poco sobre ese cambio en su personalidad después de todo lo que soportó a manos de su familia, y también me sorprendió leer al Key del presente que busca alejarse de ese chico religioso sacando su lado más dominante y agresivo. Otra cosa que me encantó fue leer sus sentimientos hacia Joel cuando lo conoció por primera vez y como busco protegerlo aún cuando el mismo necesitaba que alguien cuidara de él.
Joel se convirtió en uno de los amores de mi vida! Un chico dulce, tierno y que no teme a demostrar lo que siente, que siempre está intentando apoyar a Key, levantarle el animo en los momentos complicados y estar ahí para él, que ayuda a Dusty a darse cuenta de lo mucho que vale, la acepta y ama tal cual es y que le da a ambos la posibilidad de ser felices de nuevo! También me encantó conocer un poco de la relación que tiene con su familia (aunque me hubiera gustado ver un poco más de ellos), como habla con su mamá y como ella se preocupa por Key también, además, AMÉ que siempre se refiriera a su amistad con Key como un vinculo de almas gemelas en el que ambos están buscando siempre la felicidad del otro.
En resumen, este libro fue una maravilla con corazones rotos, drama, momentos dulce, tiernos y unas cuantas lagrimas, con una trama muy dinámica, entretenida y personajes que se convirtieron mi obsesión desde el primer libro en la serie.
🎸Key: 5/5
☎️Dusty: 5/5
🎸Joel: 5/5
☎️Trama: 5/5
🎸Historias de amor: 5/5
☎️Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🎸Universo: 5/5
☎️Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
April 22, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️ Themes: Duel Timelines, MFM, 80s Setting, Sex Worker Representation, Rock Stars, Second Chance, Forbidden Love, he falls first, interconnected stand alone.
*Thank you LH Blake for the gifted ARC! All thoughts are my own
“Summers almost over and I never know when she might disappear”
I was instantly sucked into the story!
I love Dusty. Although she has a traumatic past, she wants to make something of herself. She strives to be independent and knows her worth.
Joel is a giant teddy bear. He falls first and hard, willing to do anything to talk with her.
Keith is a quiet one who is filled with mystery. As the story progresses we get to see those mysteries unravel.
Keith and Joel have the best relationship. Supporting each other whenever it’s needed.
The three of them together is dynamic. Often knowing what each one needs and trying to find the way to make it work.
The duel timelines is well written and does not confuse the reader. It is clear what time line you’re in and how it all comes together.
The smut is extremely well written and helps to support the plot rather than drive the plot.
The plot is well thought out and well written. Minor details find ways tie become major plot points, allowing for a “aha!” Moment or jaw dropping moments.
LH Blake has done it once again. I felt every emotion reading this book. The story between Dusty, Joel and Key is one that shows love can come in many forms. This is the perfect book and story to end the Cardinal Sins series.
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️ Themes: Duel Timelines, MFM, 80s Setting, Sex Worker Representation, Rock Stars, Second Chance, Forbidden Love, he falls first, interconnected stand alone.
*Thank you LH Blake for the gifted ARC! All thoughts are my own
“Summers almost over and I never know when she might disappear”
I was instantly sucked into the story!
I love Dusty. Although she has a traumatic past, she wants to make something of herself. She strives to be independent and knows her worth.
Joel is a giant teddy bear. He falls first and hard, willing to do anything to talk with her.
Keith is a quiet one who is filled with mystery. As the story progresses we get to see those mysteries unravel.
Keith and Joel have the best relationship. Supporting each other whenever it’s needed.
The three of them together is dynamic. Often knowing what each one needs and trying to find the way to make it work.
The duel timelines is well written and does not confuse the reader. It is clear what time line you’re in and how it all comes together.
The smut is extremely well written and helps to support the plot rather than drive the plot.
The plot is well thought out and well written. Minor details find ways tie become major plot points, allowing for a “aha!” Moment or jaw dropping moments.
LH Blake has done it once again. I felt every emotion reading this book. The story between Dusty, Joel and Key is one that shows love can come in many forms. This is the perfect book and story to end the Cardinal Sins series.
April 27, 2025
I cannot contain my thoughts. I sincerely have read very few books that have made me FEEL the way this one has. Idk why I expected any different from LH. Thank you, LH, for blessing me whilst simultaneously ruining me. I haven’t been able to THINK of picking up anything since, I’m not okay. This entire series and this gem of an author deserve so much more than they have. I will forever be grateful for being able to arc read for LH Blake, and I’m sorry my life wouldn’t allow me to beta for you when given the opportunity. I don’t say this lightly when I say that I love indie authors, but other indie authors DO NOT WRITE LIKE LH DOES!! A fucking masterpiece argue with a goddamn wall
June 5, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley & the publisher for the ARC!!
I had no clue that this was part of a series until the Acknowledgements (although could see in hindsight some hints at backstories that I didn’t have knowledge of), but could totally be read without either of the others.
This was definitely more of a dramatic fiction & romance than it was a romcom- lots of heavy backstories and although there was spice, the emphasis was definitely on their childhoods instead. It was a pretty fine read, and I sped through it given that I don’t have much time to read whilst at camp at the moment, but I just didn’t find myself caring as much as I would’ve liked about the three main characters and the plot was resolved very predictably. I’m sure that if someone has liked the previous books though, they’ll probably like this- well written and lots of cameos of what I assume are the previous couples :)
I had no clue that this was part of a series until the Acknowledgements (although could see in hindsight some hints at backstories that I didn’t have knowledge of), but could totally be read without either of the others.
This was definitely more of a dramatic fiction & romance than it was a romcom- lots of heavy backstories and although there was spice, the emphasis was definitely on their childhoods instead. It was a pretty fine read, and I sped through it given that I don’t have much time to read whilst at camp at the moment, but I just didn’t find myself caring as much as I would’ve liked about the three main characters and the plot was resolved very predictably. I’m sure that if someone has liked the previous books though, they’ll probably like this- well written and lots of cameos of what I assume are the previous couples :)
April 21, 2025
Dusty, Joel + Key
-mfm whychoose romance
-80s rockstar romance
-second chance x2
-stripper/fantasy call girl
-multiple timelines
ohhhh the build up of these was INSANE!! the way lh did it was soooo perfect that it made allll the angst & tension snowball so that the revelations were like a shot to the heart!! but damn! it was sooooo so so good!!
-mfm whychoose romance
-80s rockstar romance
-second chance x2
-stripper/fantasy call girl
-multiple timelines
ohhhh the build up of these was INSANE!! the way lh did it was soooo perfect that it made allll the angst & tension snowball so that the revelations were like a shot to the heart!! but damn! it was sooooo so so good!!
April 17, 2025
I have ARC read every L.H. Blake book so far, and every single one of them have stolen a piece of my heart. Dusty is such a resilient and headstrong FMC and that’s so refreshing considering most books I read have damsel in distress vibes. Joel may look like a bad boy rocker, but the man is a total cinnamon roll and I loved his character and development throughout this book. Key, oh Keith.. That man’s story broke my heart over and over again. Every flashback chapter had me on the edge of my seat with the tissues ready because he did not deserve what he went through. The relationship building, the friendships built and the tragic events that occur in this book were so beautifully put together and captured my attention from start to finish.
Another wonderful book from a wonderful author❤️
Another wonderful book from a wonderful author❤️
April 18, 2025
Just like the first 2 books in the trilogy, I couldn’t put this book down! Blake has a gift for making you care about characters, so you continue to root for them, even when you think they’re making mistakes or misjudgments. Their backstories are developed eloquently, and even when you can sense foreshadowing, there are always welcome surprises you could never see coming. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Keep writing L. H. Blake!!
May 7, 2025
From the moment I saw the song title chapter names, I instantly knew this was right up my alley. It’s a story of two of my favourite things; a romance novel and a metal band. The fact that there isn’t a huge collection of popular novels of this kind is baffling to me because this was perfect - I will be going back to read the others in this series for sure!
From the authors note at the end, I could tell that the multiple POVs alongside the flipping back and forth from past to present was a concern of the author’s. I would just like to say: you can certainly trust your strength as a writer in the future, this was perfectly executed and ridiculously easy to follow. Thinking of others, maybe dates or even “Key - 13 years old” on the titles as opposed to “thirteen years earlier” might be helpful, as you do have so do some mental Math to figure out how old Key and Dusty were in each flashback, but it definitely works well without it.
All three of the main characters in this story were truly lovable throughout, and I could not fault any of the characters or how they were written. As an atheist Brit, it’s almost unthinkable to imagine how difficult what growing up in a strict religious household must be like for the kids, let alone kids also experiencing abuse from their parents, and it was heartbreaking to read. Their shared experiences brought them together in such a touching way, I couldn’t bear thinking about them not ending up together.
However, in the present, Joel was also a lovely character and I loved him immediately. He was clearly besotted with Dusty from the moment they met and treated her with such respect and admiration from the get go. I couldn’t imagine him not ending up with her either, so I’m very glad this was a MFM romance, as no other option would have sufficed for me. I’m not usually a multiple partner kind of girl, but this was that one time I was rooting for it to happen.
And finally, a complete commendation to the author on her exploration of more rare themes you don’t see in contemporary literature all that often. I was worried some of these themes would be overwritten when they first appeared, similarly to how some authors go completely overboard with plus sized girls or learning difficulties to the point where it’s mentioned every other line, but I soon realised I was worrying for no reason. These were seamlessly included in the story in such an authentic way to really bring these characters to life. A beautiful, funny, heart wrenching tale I’m really grateful to have read.
From the authors note at the end, I could tell that the multiple POVs alongside the flipping back and forth from past to present was a concern of the author’s. I would just like to say: you can certainly trust your strength as a writer in the future, this was perfectly executed and ridiculously easy to follow. Thinking of others, maybe dates or even “Key - 13 years old” on the titles as opposed to “thirteen years earlier” might be helpful, as you do have so do some mental Math to figure out how old Key and Dusty were in each flashback, but it definitely works well without it.
All three of the main characters in this story were truly lovable throughout, and I could not fault any of the characters or how they were written. As an atheist Brit, it’s almost unthinkable to imagine how difficult what growing up in a strict religious household must be like for the kids, let alone kids also experiencing abuse from their parents, and it was heartbreaking to read. Their shared experiences brought them together in such a touching way, I couldn’t bear thinking about them not ending up together.
However, in the present, Joel was also a lovely character and I loved him immediately. He was clearly besotted with Dusty from the moment they met and treated her with such respect and admiration from the get go. I couldn’t imagine him not ending up with her either, so I’m very glad this was a MFM romance, as no other option would have sufficed for me. I’m not usually a multiple partner kind of girl, but this was that one time I was rooting for it to happen.
And finally, a complete commendation to the author on her exploration of more rare themes you don’t see in contemporary literature all that often. I was worried some of these themes would be overwritten when they first appeared, similarly to how some authors go completely overboard with plus sized girls or learning difficulties to the point where it’s mentioned every other line, but I soon realised I was worrying for no reason. These were seamlessly included in the story in such an authentic way to really bring these characters to life. A beautiful, funny, heart wrenching tale I’m really grateful to have read.
dnf
April 29, 2025DNF at 28%
I have to start by saying anytime there's an "I'm not like other girls," statement, I put the book down and don't look back. That never translates well for me personally and always gives pick me or cringe. I decided to give this book another chance because it's an ARC.
I wanted to like this book. The premise sounded good, and the characters sounded interesting. I believe all work is valid work, and I was excited to watch Dusty grow into her confidence or perhaps decide for herself that she needed a change in her career and grow skills to do so. Whatever she picked, I wanted to watch her story bloom.
Then I got to the pool flashback, and... ew.
There are a million ways to express how the mmc found the fmc attractive when they were both young without bringing up the "dozen men, some even as old as my father" who are staring at the UNDERAGED fmc like "they've never seen a girl before." Excuse me? She is a literal CHILD.
And would a teenage boy who is obviously entranced by a girl his age even be "glancing around" to see these other ADULT men checking her out? I really don't think so. I felt this was unnecessary and threw off the entire vibe of the chapter. I could barely finish it.
Anything written about humans under the age of 18 is already a bit dodgy for me when a book is outside of the YA genre, especially if it is sexual in nature. This made me feel icky just for reading it.
If you're not bothered by these types of things, then maybe you could enjoy this. I personally cannot finish a book that has elements like these in it, especially about underaged children.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing the arc in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
I have to start by saying anytime there's an "I'm not like other girls," statement, I put the book down and don't look back. That never translates well for me personally and always gives pick me or cringe. I decided to give this book another chance because it's an ARC.
I wanted to like this book. The premise sounded good, and the characters sounded interesting. I believe all work is valid work, and I was excited to watch Dusty grow into her confidence or perhaps decide for herself that she needed a change in her career and grow skills to do so. Whatever she picked, I wanted to watch her story bloom.
Then I got to the pool flashback, and... ew.
There are a million ways to express how the mmc found the fmc attractive when they were both young without bringing up the "dozen men, some even as old as my father" who are staring at the UNDERAGED fmc like "they've never seen a girl before." Excuse me? She is a literal CHILD.
And would a teenage boy who is obviously entranced by a girl his age even be "glancing around" to see these other ADULT men checking her out? I really don't think so. I felt this was unnecessary and threw off the entire vibe of the chapter. I could barely finish it.
Anything written about humans under the age of 18 is already a bit dodgy for me when a book is outside of the YA genre, especially if it is sexual in nature. This made me feel icky just for reading it.
If you're not bothered by these types of things, then maybe you could enjoy this. I personally cannot finish a book that has elements like these in it, especially about underaged children.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing the arc in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2025
I haven’t read the other books in this series, but that honestly didn’t matter at all—I had no problem jumping in and following along. The writing is strong and immersive, and the story completely pulled me in.
As a former sex worker, I felt a really deep connection to Dusty. Her character is written with such honesty and care, and I saw so much of myself in her. Joel and Key are exactly the kind of people I’d be interested in, which made their dynamic with Dusty even more exciting and real for me.
The POV switches were so well done—you can truly tell whose head you’re in based on the writing style, which is something I really appreciated. It made each character feel distinct and layered.
Now for the spice: YES. The scenes are hot without being cringey or using weird euphemisms (you know the ones), and everything felt natural and intimate in the best way.
But what truly got me were the emotions. The relationship between Dusty and Key hit so close to home that I actually cried. Their bond was so powerful and relevant to my own life—it felt like being seen in a way that fiction rarely delivers.
Overall:
This book is sexy, emotional, and beautifully written. It stands on its own while still making you curious about the rest of the series. If you’re into character-driven romance with real emotional depth and well-written spice, A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty is absolutely worth your time.
As a former sex worker, I felt a really deep connection to Dusty. Her character is written with such honesty and care, and I saw so much of myself in her. Joel and Key are exactly the kind of people I’d be interested in, which made their dynamic with Dusty even more exciting and real for me.
The POV switches were so well done—you can truly tell whose head you’re in based on the writing style, which is something I really appreciated. It made each character feel distinct and layered.
Now for the spice: YES. The scenes are hot without being cringey or using weird euphemisms (you know the ones), and everything felt natural and intimate in the best way.
But what truly got me were the emotions. The relationship between Dusty and Key hit so close to home that I actually cried. Their bond was so powerful and relevant to my own life—it felt like being seen in a way that fiction rarely delivers.
Overall:
This book is sexy, emotional, and beautifully written. It stands on its own while still making you curious about the rest of the series. If you’re into character-driven romance with real emotional depth and well-written spice, A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty is absolutely worth your time.
April 6, 2025
this was the perfect ending to this series!! I devoured this book!! I have loved this series, and now getting to see where everything ends, seeing the growth throughout all the books, makes my heart so happy! Like the other two there is so much depth written into this story, both Dusty and Key have childhood trauma and it still affects them in their present life. But as always LH Blake wrote it with such care, and balanced it with so much love. Items so beautifully written!!
First and foremost Joel and Key have such a special friendship. I loved them from the beginning, but getting a closer look into them made everything make even more sense. And I LOVED that there was an invisible string connecting all three of them. It was fate, and luck, and whatever else you want to call it. But the fact that they could all find each other, at separate times, and have such a strong connection…they were all meant to be and it was so perfect.
I love this Carnal Sins family! Seeing them once again supporting each other, and just always being there and loving each other was so sweet! I’m sad to see them go. But I am excited for whatever LH Blake comes up with next!
Thank you so much to LH Blake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
First and foremost Joel and Key have such a special friendship. I loved them from the beginning, but getting a closer look into them made everything make even more sense. And I LOVED that there was an invisible string connecting all three of them. It was fate, and luck, and whatever else you want to call it. But the fact that they could all find each other, at separate times, and have such a strong connection…they were all meant to be and it was so perfect.
I love this Carnal Sins family! Seeing them once again supporting each other, and just always being there and loving each other was so sweet! I’m sad to see them go. But I am excited for whatever LH Blake comes up with next!
Thank you so much to LH Blake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 5, 2025
I don’t even know where to start other than BRAVO L. H. Blake on another incredible book. Five complete stars.
When I first discovered A Song of Sin and Salvation, her first book in this series, I read it so quickly and was SO in love with the writing, the plot, and the characters, it became one of my favorite reads of 2023.
I’ve followed these amazing characters throughout two books and couldn’t wait to get to this third book to get to spend more time with them and finish out their stories.
I didn’t think anyone could beat James for me, he’s the OG and my favorite good bad boy, but Joel came through and swept me away.
Joel and Key’s friendship is so so good, and the twists and turns and heart wrenching storyline of this book just drew me right in from the very beginning.
Perfect amount of spice 🥵 perfect amount of plot 🖤 perfect amount of funny & sweet ❤️ perfect amount of hurt.
I’m honestly so so so sad to be done with this series and to say goodbye to these people, but I can’t wait to read whatever L. H. Blake writes next. Fan for life.
When I first discovered A Song of Sin and Salvation, her first book in this series, I read it so quickly and was SO in love with the writing, the plot, and the characters, it became one of my favorite reads of 2023.
I’ve followed these amazing characters throughout two books and couldn’t wait to get to this third book to get to spend more time with them and finish out their stories.
I didn’t think anyone could beat James for me, he’s the OG and my favorite good bad boy, but Joel came through and swept me away.
Joel and Key’s friendship is so so good, and the twists and turns and heart wrenching storyline of this book just drew me right in from the very beginning.
Perfect amount of spice 🥵 perfect amount of plot 🖤 perfect amount of funny & sweet ❤️ perfect amount of hurt.
I’m honestly so so so sad to be done with this series and to say goodbye to these people, but I can’t wait to read whatever L. H. Blake writes next. Fan for life.
April 12, 2025
Romance book where FMC is a sex worker and the two MMC are in a metal band? Love.
I haven’t read either of the other books in this series, but it didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything by not having read them. The writing was good, and the plot explained well enough that it didn’t matter that I didn’t know the characters back stories.
I loved how well written FMC was in her role as a SWer - if felt respectful. I’m not gonna lie, when I read at the start that she was a stripper my heart sank a bit - I thought she’d end up being the butt of every joke (as is generally the case), but it was the exact opposite.
The poly relationship felt natural, and not like it was being shoe horned in. Seeing poly representation in one of these ‘easy readers’ was a real nice change.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
I haven’t read either of the other books in this series, but it didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything by not having read them. The writing was good, and the plot explained well enough that it didn’t matter that I didn’t know the characters back stories.
I loved how well written FMC was in her role as a SWer - if felt respectful. I’m not gonna lie, when I read at the start that she was a stripper my heart sank a bit - I thought she’d end up being the butt of every joke (as is generally the case), but it was the exact opposite.
The poly relationship felt natural, and not like it was being shoe horned in. Seeing poly representation in one of these ‘easy readers’ was a real nice change.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
April 9, 2025
Do you love a polyamorous trope? Do love 80s band vibes/rock concerts? What about insta-connect and love? What about love spans over a decade? Two friends that are actually soul mates and fall for the same girl? If these things are making you check yes…. This is the book for you! This book sucks you in right from the beginning. It has multiple POVs. It has witty banter, friendship, love and a cat that helps play matchmaker. It is the third book in the series and while it could technically be read alone, I recommend reading the first two books (1. A song of sin and salvation 2. A duet of darkness and dreams) prior to for the ultimate experience. It was my favorite book of the series but all of them are 5 stars for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
Thank you to L.H. Blake for the ARC!
I think this was a perfect way to end the Carnal Sins series. I loved Dusty, Joel, and Key so much. From Dusty and Key’s childhood trauma to Joel and Key’s friendship and how it all started. Seeing glimpses of the other couples again and how their lives have evolved since their books. And of course, the writing was great; it sucks you in and flows so easily. If I had to say one thing, I just wish we would have gotten more of them together at the end; it just felt too short, but maybe that’s just me being greedy. Either way, I’m glad I stumbled upon the first book in the series on TikTok in 2023; otherwise, I would not be here writing this today.
Thank you to L.H. Blake for the ARC!
I think this was a perfect way to end the Carnal Sins series. I loved Dusty, Joel, and Key so much. From Dusty and Key’s childhood trauma to Joel and Key’s friendship and how it all started. Seeing glimpses of the other couples again and how their lives have evolved since their books. And of course, the writing was great; it sucks you in and flows so easily. If I had to say one thing, I just wish we would have gotten more of them together at the end; it just felt too short, but maybe that’s just me being greedy. Either way, I’m glad I stumbled upon the first book in the series on TikTok in 2023; otherwise, I would not be here writing this today.
May 4, 2025
3.75
I have loved reading this series and each book has been so different, but the writing keeps it familiar.
I had a good time reading this one, but I wanted more. The inevitable ending felt a bit rushed. I wanted more of the three of them together.
I need more of the band. The glimpses of all of them together were magical. The Carnal Sins little family is everything, and I missed that from this book.
I loved the writing style,the POVs and the timeline switching was perfect. The past and present beautifully tied together.
I hope there will be a fourth book, so I can see where these truly fantastic characters end up.
I want a Carnal Sins world tour, in the 90s reminiscing and telling us about their goings on. L.H do a girl a solid and make it happen!?!
I have loved reading this series and each book has been so different, but the writing keeps it familiar.
I had a good time reading this one, but I wanted more. The inevitable ending felt a bit rushed. I wanted more of the three of them together.
I need more of the band. The glimpses of all of them together were magical. The Carnal Sins little family is everything, and I missed that from this book.
I loved the writing style,the POVs and the timeline switching was perfect. The past and present beautifully tied together.
I hope there will be a fourth book, so I can see where these truly fantastic characters end up.
I want a Carnal Sins world tour, in the 90s reminiscing and telling us about their goings on. L.H do a girl a solid and make it happen!?!
April 9, 2025
Arc review-
what a way to end a trilogy!
I loved the romance and connection these amazing characters have. the found family of this series is hands down my favourite, its so grounded and you can see the love and care they have for each other.
Dusty is amazing, such a strong FMC and one that doesn't show weakness. she is clearly the hero and doesn't brag about.
I was hooked from start to finish and couldn't be more happier to have been given the opportunity to arc this book. I would love to read what their future holds as couples and as a band and where life takes them after the 80's.
Also Stella was brilliant, as all pets in stories are.
what a way to end a trilogy!
I loved the romance and connection these amazing characters have. the found family of this series is hands down my favourite, its so grounded and you can see the love and care they have for each other.
Dusty is amazing, such a strong FMC and one that doesn't show weakness. she is clearly the hero and doesn't brag about.
I was hooked from start to finish and couldn't be more happier to have been given the opportunity to arc this book. I would love to read what their future holds as couples and as a band and where life takes them after the 80's.
Also Stella was brilliant, as all pets in stories are.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2025
3.5⭐️ My first ARC!
An MFM rockstar romance taking place in the 80’s was so much fun. I did feel like the story and the characters didn’t have much depth to them. There were also some questions that didn’t get answered. But overall I really enjoyed it🫶🏼
I do wish the characters had more time being together, all three of them. We see her relationship with Joel and we see her complicated relationship with Key but we didn’t see as much of her with both in the present.
Overall the plot was entertaining because it was set where music groups like for metal rock were a big thing.
Thank you NetGalley and L.H Blake for the opportunity to read this ARC.
An MFM rockstar romance taking place in the 80’s was so much fun. I did feel like the story and the characters didn’t have much depth to them. There were also some questions that didn’t get answered. But overall I really enjoyed it🫶🏼
I do wish the characters had more time being together, all three of them. We see her relationship with Joel and we see her complicated relationship with Key but we didn’t see as much of her with both in the present.
Overall the plot was entertaining because it was set where music groups like for metal rock were a big thing.
Thank you NetGalley and L.H Blake for the opportunity to read this ARC.
May 3, 2025
I loved the first two books in this series and was so excited to get Joel and Key's story. They are part of a band and great friends. This book is set in the 80's which is perfect. Also a MFM book.
I love how this author uses dual POVs and also how well weaved the past and the present.
Dusty is a fiesty redhead who meets Joel while in Vegas. They hit it off but ends there because Joel was only visiting. When they see each other again, Joel is intrigued.
You get the past on how Key and Joel meet and also how Key and Dusty know each other.
Such a great book and don't want to give anything more away. Just read this book and series!
I love how this author uses dual POVs and also how well weaved the past and the present.
Dusty is a fiesty redhead who meets Joel while in Vegas. They hit it off but ends there because Joel was only visiting. When they see each other again, Joel is intrigued.
You get the past on how Key and Joel meet and also how Key and Dusty know each other.
Such a great book and don't want to give anything more away. Just read this book and series!
April 26, 2025
Special Thanks to the Author L.H Blake for gifting me this book. All Opinions are my own!*
This is the Third book of an interconnected standalone series. I love this book! Keith and Joels relationship was the best part of this book. The support they gave each other was everything it needed to be and more ❤️ Keith is the silent one and Joel is just a gigantic softie. Then we have Dusty who has a troubled past and who’s slightly independent. This was an extremely well-written story and the smut was beautifully written into the plot.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is the Third book of an interconnected standalone series. I love this book! Keith and Joels relationship was the best part of this book. The support they gave each other was everything it needed to be and more ❤️ Keith is the silent one and Joel is just a gigantic softie. Then we have Dusty who has a troubled past and who’s slightly independent. This was an extremely well-written story and the smut was beautifully written into the plot.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 5, 2025
5/5⭐️
4/5🌶
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I could not put this down!! I even read it while waiting in lines at Disney oops. 🤭
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A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty tells the stories of three young adults navigating past trauma, life's challenges, and second chances.
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I adored the characters and appreciated how easy it was to follow despite not reading the first two (yet).
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Highly recommend this to lovers of found family, why choose, music scene, dual timeline, multiple povs.
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Big thanks to LH Blake for an advanced reader copy of this!💕
4/5🌶
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I could not put this down!! I even read it while waiting in lines at Disney oops. 🤭
.
A Ballad of Betrayal and Beauty tells the stories of three young adults navigating past trauma, life's challenges, and second chances.
.
I adored the characters and appreciated how easy it was to follow despite not reading the first two (yet).
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Highly recommend this to lovers of found family, why choose, music scene, dual timeline, multiple povs.
.
Big thanks to LH Blake for an advanced reader copy of this!💕
April 10, 2025
As a long time fan, since before book 1 came out. The tiktok that showed up on my fyp about an 80s rock love. I knew I’d be hooked. You fall in love with each character in their specific books, and their cameos. How doesn’t love sexy hot rock stars and their gorgeous girls?! Nothing more brilliant for the girlies who love men who play instruments and in a rock and roll band. Thank you to l.h. Blake for these masterpieces. You don’t wanna miss these.
April 13, 2025
If I could give this a 10 star I would. I cannot believe the Carnal Sins books are done. What a JOURNEY. I loved being able to see how it happened from start to finish. Meeting Dusty in this book and seeing her character development was outstanding. The love she shared for Joel and Key makes my heart so happy. The book was beautifully written, the flow was on point, and the characters will always be a favorite.
April 8, 2025
An absolute banger from LH Blake and I need to read more from this author. Yes there was smut and some pretty raunchy scenes but there was such a story there and so much more than a meet cute and shag! This is the kind of story I will think about! Couldn’t put the book down, thank you NetGalley for letting me read and review.
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