Imagine Mama warned you to stay away from the Kingly Dynasty. The adrenaline rush sparked curiosity so you ignored the warnings. Now imagine being a slot winner and you're told in order to collect your earnings you have to stay with "Him" for 7 days locked away in a dimly lit chamber. Now here you are face to face with a beast-like man whose body is covered in blissful art. He's aggressive yet seductive but being held captive is fearful. Despite his physical strength, Kasim is a fragile mortal who falls for a beauty by the name of Dallas after the first time laying eyes on her.
In this dark romance, one night of pleasure is captive enjoyment!
In all honesty I wish we could’ve gotten full lore on the Kinglys. I’m so confused on what are they… are the human or not… like what the hell.
I didn’t feel the chemistry between Kasim & Dallas.. not once. Especially not enough chemistry to open her legs up to him. Just saying
Then we got chapters to the other siblings that still didn’t give me the lore that was needed lol and that felt like unnecessary filler when we could’ve been getting more acquainted with Kasim & Dallas. Just saying
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I'm confused on how Dallas and Kasim fell in love🤔 they hardly conversed. They just stared at each other. or she was huddled up in a corner somewhere while he blew the back out of the women who "won money"at the casino. this book was weird but it kept me entertained, I guess. I won't be in a rush to read the others after this one.
I don’t mind insta-love, but the chemistry just wasn’t there for me. I feel like the reader does get to see deeper into who Kasim is, but Dallas didn’t. They barely had any type of conversation & definitely not enough to be in love. Physical attraction was there for sure, but beyond that there wasn’t any other connection.
Okay, so what even was this…? I was confused and disturbed from start to finish. I get this was supposed to be dark, but DAMN. This was a mess to me. It was overly violent, barely had any true romance, and just had weird energy all around. And every chapter was from a different character’s perspective, not just the two main characters, so like 8-10 different people that didn’t even add to the story??? What was the reason?! It was also trying to add a fantasy element I feel like, but it was just weird and sinister. I’m traumatized and I almost DNF it, but decided to see it through because it was so short. 🫠
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
For book one, sometimes an author will introduce many of the upcoming characters kinda of fast or at awkward times.
In other words, sometimes their introduction feels forced.
As a reader, you understand they are building this new world and laying the foundation. However, that process can be a lot to read.
“pen game 🔏✅” moment:
This author has so many characters and interconnected interactions that if not written well- it could be overwhelming/confusing to the reader.
Not here and not with this writing.
The author does an amazing job directing our attention to the necessary individuals while keeping us passively engaged in everyone else’s storyline.
We are thinking about them but we are not confused or consumed by them while they aren’t on the page.
—————— Pacing was amazing Chemistry in this story would be very unique to describe. I don’t think chemistry yet, I think a strong and uncontrollable connection. As a reader, I am here for and cheering for that connection! 😍 All of our side characters- I want their stories ASAP. (I’ll patiently wait). 🤓 SPICE WAS FILTH (granted, this is not all the book but when the scene is there be prepared cause 🥵🤭) I love how the author wrote Kasim- Granted, he is hella unhinged (that pewpew scene 😳😳😳😳) but I think the author does an amazing job with him.
—————
“pen game 🔏✅” moment:
The way the author wrote Kasim.
One of the most impressive things done with his character was you felt that duality.
The battle of good vs evil.
It wasn’t implied or just written for information sake… you felt it.
We get his “evil” origin story in chapter one and continue to get snapshots that reiterate and reinforce his behaviors.
We know our FMC’s story but clearly, Kasim is the focal point of this book. I loved that!
I believe that’s what makes this writing perspective somewhat unique because his unhinged behavior is mainly viewed and discussed from his POV.
Amazing!
——————
I may be mistaken but I don’t ever remember reading an Epilogue that was actually “time stamped” hours prior and remained there- INTERESTING!
I am so engrossed in this family and the storylines of all the siblings.
It ends on a cliffhanger but this author does it in such a way that we have some resolution/standstill in the drama.
We love that here!
I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend if you are into DARK romance.
If not, keep it moving cause this ain’t Belle and Beast.
You know a book has you fully engaged and at the edge of your seat when you come to the end and the very next thing you do is go check the author’s socials to find the release dates of the next book.
The strongest element of this book is undoubtedly the prologue, which establishes an intriguing plot with compelling world-building potential. The opening effectively sets expectations for what appears to be a tale of magical realism, with word choices and character mannerisms that suggest deeper supernatural elements at play. Unfortunately, character development becomes a significant weakness as the story progresses. While the Kingly siblings receive some detailed physical descriptions, the female lead Dallas is described only as "ghetto and basic". This lack of characterization makes it difficult for the reader to connect with her and extends beyond just physical descriptions to include minimal personality development for both main characters. The romance suffers from classic "insta-love" syndrome without showing readers what draws Kasim and Dallas together. We're told they're attracted to each other but given no compelling moments or shared experiences that would help us understand or invest in their connection. This leads me to believe this is a case of Stockholm syndrome which makes me categorize the book as dark romance. At approximately 175 pages, this full-length novel needs every word to count. However, the narrative introduces multiple perspectives from side characters who appear only briefly, diluting focus from the central relationship. In a shorter work, this scattered attention feels like a missed opportunity to develop the main characters more deeply. The pacing feels erratic throughout, with the story's tone shifting unexpectedly from the magical realism suggested in the opening to a much darker romance than anticipated. What begins as apparent magical realism, based on the atmospheric setting, character behaviors, and mystical allusions, rapidly evolves into dark romance territory. While I enjoy dark romance, this shift felt jarring and ii-paced. The darkness heavily outweighs the romantic elements, featuring psychological manipulation and sporadic violence that may catch readers off-guard if they're expecting the lighter magical elements the opening suggests. Despite these criticisms, Barbie Amour shows potential as a writer. Her author's note mentions this is her first book after a hiatus, which suggests these issues might be growing pains as she finds her rhythm again. The atmospheric writing in the prologue demonstrates she has the skills to create compelling scenes when focused. This book would appeal to readers who specifically enjoy heavy dark romance with minimal character development requirements and don't mind erratic pacing. However, those seeking well-developed characters, or well-balanced romance with more showing than telling might want to wait for the author's next work. I'm willing to give Barbie Amour another chance with a future release, hoping she'll refine the character development and structural elements that could make her atmospheric writing truly shine.
Barbie Amor has penned another intriguing Dark Romance with Kasim that will keep so entranced you read in one day! The characters, plot, and allure has me ready for the next Kingly Dynasty Romance!
So good to have Ms. Amor back with her vicious pen!!! Kasim is the prime explain of BDE!!! He is unapologetic him like or leave it!! Until he sets his eyes on Ms. Dallas!!! It is at that moment all the soft emotions he has buried hits him, but love is not in the cards so he believes!!! Dallas knows she deserves better and is holding out for Big Boy to step up!!! But winning causes her heart to change routes!!! Their silent tug of war is intense, passionate and overwhelming at times!!! I love it!!! Tasim his older brother has fell for the lovely Norah and is inspired by seeing his little brother stand up to their father for love!!! I can't for 2 I need to know just how Kasim and Tasim, feed Big Boy to the wolves!!!! Five stars Ms. Amor!!!🥰
50% in Honey, all I can say is poor Tink Tink! Now, we know how some may feel bout them folks in blue, but sis' heart was in the right place! These Kingly's are the devil!
BTW off rip I am gonna need some more Billion because that get-back, oh it bout to be sweet!
Now, Kasim and Dallas story itself felt a bit off balance and incomplete. I suppose was intentional because this is intended to be a series, and Tasim & Norah's book is up next.
There was a lot of information and characters crammed and not much development. I suppose if this was a prelude to the series, it would make sense... the potential is there.
This author gave me one of the funniest and most unhinged characters I read in 2024, so I am not judging her pen on this one.
This series is gonna be lit. My boy is a beast, and he fell in love with my girl, who was taken advantage of by her f**k n***a boyfriend. I'm glad the two opposite go well together. Her bestie is to be recking with, and she met the right dude they are the same. I can't wait to read the next book. U did good on the first book that I read of urs and I'm looking forward to reading more of them. Sitting here patting my feet while sipping on Pepsi and while eating popcorn while waiting on the next book to read
Ok, ok, ok…now, this story was a wild and weird ride, but, I loved every bit of it and can’t wait for more of the Kingly Brothers. Kasim is every bit of man and beast wrapped all in a psychotic weird lil/big man. I really hope they finish big boy’s coward butt off because he know he was wrong for beating on Dallas like she was a man. I’m glad Dallas could make her mind up about Kasim. I think they make an oddly weird good couple.
The Kingly name ring bells and I can see why! Their set up is a bit weird! However I would only want ti retrieve my money by walking up to a window and not no next day shyt either! But anyway Kasim was a scary brother, figured all he needed was the right woman to get his attention as usual! Im glad he served Big Boy his karma or should I say partially, because from the cliffhanger it seems it may be more.Looking forward to Tasim's story next!
There was absolutely no chemistry between the two lead characters and really no plot if we’re being real. There’s a disconnect with how they even fell in love. When did they talk? When did they get to know each other? All they did was stare at each other lol However, the book kept me entertained. As I deep reader, I wonder if Kasim’s beast like nature is symbolism for the damage caused by his father. He’s human, but deeply damaged to where he’s unrecognizable which makes him appear beast like? Just a thought. Also, how were they able to get away with kidnapping and murder? lol then the scene where the woman got fucked with the pistol. BFFR.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Def a dark romance. This family is dark and unhinged. It does end on a cliffhanger. Dallas was trapped in a dungeon for 7 days with Kasim. Kasim just really wanted someone to see him as a human instead of a weirdo and when Dallas finally did that he fell in love. Kasim was unhinged and dark, but he had a heart when it came to Dallas.
I’m glad that this author is back. The relationship that was building between Kasim and Dallas was like a connection that spoke louder than words. Big boy was a no good man and Dallas should have been left him. Nora is the true definition of a real friend she was going hard trying to find her friend. I’m upset that it ended so fast I’m ready for part 2
I saw this book posted in a Facebook book group I belong to and I was intrigued by it. When I tell you this book was so good, the author did her big one on this. This is my first time reading a book by this author, but this will not be my last. I am now off to the next book 5 star read 10 out of 10 highly recommend.
I didn’t think I was going to actually like this book just based off the TikTok reviews I saw . lol i don’t know how I feel about dark romance but I did like this one . I just needed more as I started to get into it the book ended so I guess l’ll wait for the next book. Rooting for Dallas and the beast tho lol
It was worth every penny minute I really enjoyed this book I must say this is my first book that I read by the author and it was sooo good can’t wait to explore her books more
I wanted more with Kasim and Dallas’ attraction story. But uh he is crazy. That incident with Sable, sir is you cool? And Dallas too nice. She aggy. Norah and Tasim whewwww. Is Shy gonna end up liking Billions?
A hard head Make a soft behind ... Dallas finds this out the hard way. Kasim is part of a twisted lifestyle at Dynasty Casino. owned by the Kingly 's. Lots of wild ish in this dark romance
Based on the ending I guess more books are coming...
I’m confused, like so confused! If it’s a dark romance I get that, but this wasn’t that. This didn’t make any sense at all! I try not to give bad reviews but this was something else and it wasn’t good!
Imagine Mama warned you to stay away from the Kingly Dynasty. That one line pulled me into this book. I’m new to dark romance but this read was so different for me. Kasim had my interest and Dallas was just a fool especially for Big Boy. Tasim held my interest and seemed more down to earth. 2.5/5
DNF’ed 32% in because I had no idea what was going on. Everything was being spoken about as if background, character building and world building had been established. Also disjointed pacing and very odd dialogue.
This was sooo freaking good. I loved the breakdown of each character, understanding their motives behind their actions. Like I literally can’t wait for the next book.
This book was missing too much: setting and character background, depth, proper editing. Was she gone 7 days or almost 2 weeks? Why wasn’t the Kingly’s immortality discussed?