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Vengeful: A Dark Romance
saltwater and sin.
secrets that don’t stay buried.
this is only the beginning.
welcome to hollow beach.
full blurb coming soon!
secrets that don’t stay buried.
this is only the beginning.
welcome to hollow beach.
full blurb coming soon!
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 29, 2026
38 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Black
65 books1,953 followersPenelope Black lives in the Midwest with her husband and two tiny humans. When she's not writing, she enjoys over-the-top action movies, iced chai lattes, and soaking up the sun in her backyard with a good book.
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Newsletter—>bit.ly/PensNL
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Keep up with Penelope on all platforms:
Newsletter—>bit.ly/PensNL
Facebook—> facebook.com/author.penelope.black
Facebook group—> facebook.com/groups/penelopeblack
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
January 24, 2026
For you Penelope Black I will read a why choose.
(Even tho I for sure have brother preference)
This was fun.
I liked the heist situation.
Dark romance.
I loved how it was more of a slow burn.
The hale family(our girl Bethany) and the Calloway brothers.
4 brothers to be exact.
The POVs featured were interesting.
And it’ll be interesting to see how that is in the 2nd book.
Beach setting. Surfing included.
And that cliffhanger. WTF.
I’ve got theories. But I feel they’re wrong.
Arc review ✨
(Even tho I for sure have brother preference)
This was fun.
I liked the heist situation.
Dark romance.
I loved how it was more of a slow burn.
The hale family(our girl Bethany) and the Calloway brothers.
4 brothers to be exact.
The POVs featured were interesting.
And it’ll be interesting to see how that is in the 2nd book.
Beach setting. Surfing included.
And that cliffhanger. WTF.
I’ve got theories. But I feel they’re wrong.
Arc review ✨
January 28, 2026
Ok so think of Oceans 11 with Heists but set in California with characters who surf. Now make it a why choose where the FMC has palpable sexual tension with FOUR brothers. This books was a whole ass fucking vibe and you NEED to add it to your tbr! But please go into this knowing it ends in a cliffhanger!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I couldn't wait to dive into a new series by Penelope, and the fact she's writing another why choose, dark romance was the cherry on the cake.
Vengeful is a strong start to this new series, and I am obsessed. Our fmc, Bellamy, returns to Hallow Beach after some time away, and she is right back where she started with the Calloway brothers, Gage, Cruz, Rafe, and Bishop. All of them are getting under her skin in the best ways (even if she doesn't admit it yet).
I have so many questions, that will hopefully be answered in the next book, and theories, of which I am usually wrong, but we'll wait and see.
And true to Penelope style, she has left us on a cliffhanger of cliffhangers! We go from the last page of a chapter to a readers notice, I was like WTF?!!
If you like the tropes below, I would really suggest giving this a go!
🖤 Slow burn
🖤 Why Choose
🖤 Heist
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Second Chance
🖤 Enemies to lovers
A huge thank you to Penelope for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Vengeful is a strong start to this new series, and I am obsessed. Our fmc, Bellamy, returns to Hallow Beach after some time away, and she is right back where she started with the Calloway brothers, Gage, Cruz, Rafe, and Bishop. All of them are getting under her skin in the best ways (even if she doesn't admit it yet).
I have so many questions, that will hopefully be answered in the next book, and theories, of which I am usually wrong, but we'll wait and see.
And true to Penelope style, she has left us on a cliffhanger of cliffhangers! We go from the last page of a chapter to a readers notice, I was like WTF?!!
If you like the tropes below, I would really suggest giving this a go!
🖤 Slow burn
🖤 Why Choose
🖤 Heist
🖤 Dark Romance
🖤 Second Chance
🖤 Enemies to lovers
A huge thank you to Penelope for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2026
Pen is back in her why choose era and she absolutely nailed it!!! I was hooked from the beginning to the absolute end! I mean come on HEISTS?! The relationship building, story building and the banter were TOP notch — I feel I won’t recover from the heat and TENSION in this one. It was everything you want and so much more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book did not ease in. It stalked me, backed me into a corner, and reminded me exactly why dark, slow-burn why choose owns my soul.
Hollow Beach is a whole mood. Gritty, dangerous, soaked in secrets and loyalty that cuts deeper than love. The Calloway brothers are not just powerful, they are inevitable. Gage. Cruze. Rafe. Bishop. Each one distinct, each one deadly in his own way, and together? A storm system you see coming but still stand in the rain for.
Bellamy coming back was everything. She is sharp, scarred, stubborn, and very aware that survival comes with a cost. The history between her and these men hums under every scene like a live wire. The first love ache. The jealous protector tension. The strategist watching from the shadows. The enforcer who feels like a threat and a promise all at once. The chemistry between Bellamy and the Calloway boys is straight up sinful. Slow, deliberate, and so thick I swear I could taste it.
And can we talk about the banter? Because wow. The back and forth between the two crews, Hale with Bellamy, Lola, and Beckham versus the Calloway boys, was perfection. Sharp tongues, old wounds, loyalty tests, and that delicious sense that everyone is one bad decision away from chaos. It added humor, heat, and heart in a way that made the world feel alive instead of just dark.
This book is about crime and control, yes, but it is also about belonging. About choosing your people even when it terrifies you. About love that does not ask you to pick just one path because that was never the truth anyway.
By the time I finished, I was wrecked, obsessed, and already desperate for more. If you love dark romance with real tension, earned heat, dangerous men who would burn the world down for their girl, and a why choose that actually makes sense, read this. Immediately. Cancel your plans. Hollow Beach demands your attention and I was more than happy to give it everything. 🖤🔥
Hollow Beach is a whole mood. Gritty, dangerous, soaked in secrets and loyalty that cuts deeper than love. The Calloway brothers are not just powerful, they are inevitable. Gage. Cruze. Rafe. Bishop. Each one distinct, each one deadly in his own way, and together? A storm system you see coming but still stand in the rain for.
Bellamy coming back was everything. She is sharp, scarred, stubborn, and very aware that survival comes with a cost. The history between her and these men hums under every scene like a live wire. The first love ache. The jealous protector tension. The strategist watching from the shadows. The enforcer who feels like a threat and a promise all at once. The chemistry between Bellamy and the Calloway boys is straight up sinful. Slow, deliberate, and so thick I swear I could taste it.
And can we talk about the banter? Because wow. The back and forth between the two crews, Hale with Bellamy, Lola, and Beckham versus the Calloway boys, was perfection. Sharp tongues, old wounds, loyalty tests, and that delicious sense that everyone is one bad decision away from chaos. It added humor, heat, and heart in a way that made the world feel alive instead of just dark.
This book is about crime and control, yes, but it is also about belonging. About choosing your people even when it terrifies you. About love that does not ask you to pick just one path because that was never the truth anyway.
By the time I finished, I was wrecked, obsessed, and already desperate for more. If you love dark romance with real tension, earned heat, dangerous men who would burn the world down for their girl, and a why choose that actually makes sense, read this. Immediately. Cancel your plans. Hollow Beach demands your attention and I was more than happy to give it everything. 🖤🔥
January 24, 2026
I’m not going to lie — I went into Vengeful a little nervous. Dark romance and why-choose aren’t always my comfort zone, and I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about this story once I was in it. That said… I’m definitely intrigued, and maybe even a little hooked.
From the very first pages, there was this constant sense of unease that I couldn’t shake. The atmosphere felt tense and heavy in a way that seemed intentional, and I spent most of the book unsure of who to trust — and honestly, I’m still not sure. The morally gray characters, secrets, and heist elements all layered together to keep me on edge, even during quieter moments.
Despite the darker tone, there were a few moments that genuinely made me laugh, which helped balance things out and made the characters feel more real. I also found myself making plenty of reader noises along the way — always a good sign that a book has me fully engaged, even when I’m conflicted.
The why-choose dynamic is still something I’m figuring out how I feel about, but this story did enough to keep me curious rather than pushing me away. And that cliffhanger? It definitely did its job, because I haven’t stopped thinking about where this story could go next.
Overall, Vengeful feels very much like the beginning of something darker and more complex, and while I’m not fully settled on how I feel yet, I’m absolutely interested to see what comes next.
Thank you to Penelope Black for the ARC — I appreciate the opportunity to read and share my honest thoughts.
Spice note (for readers who like chapter references): chapters 36, 43, and 44.
From the very first pages, there was this constant sense of unease that I couldn’t shake. The atmosphere felt tense and heavy in a way that seemed intentional, and I spent most of the book unsure of who to trust — and honestly, I’m still not sure. The morally gray characters, secrets, and heist elements all layered together to keep me on edge, even during quieter moments.
Despite the darker tone, there were a few moments that genuinely made me laugh, which helped balance things out and made the characters feel more real. I also found myself making plenty of reader noises along the way — always a good sign that a book has me fully engaged, even when I’m conflicted.
The why-choose dynamic is still something I’m figuring out how I feel about, but this story did enough to keep me curious rather than pushing me away. And that cliffhanger? It definitely did its job, because I haven’t stopped thinking about where this story could go next.
Overall, Vengeful feels very much like the beginning of something darker and more complex, and while I’m not fully settled on how I feel yet, I’m absolutely interested to see what comes next.
Thank you to Penelope Black for the ARC — I appreciate the opportunity to read and share my honest thoughts.
Spice note (for readers who like chapter references): chapters 36, 43, and 44.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Before I go into how much I absolutely LOVE this book, I have to say that it ends on a cliffhanger that will mess you up because WTF, Penelope?!
❤️ Dark Romance
🖤 Why Choose
❤️ Slow Burn
🖤 High-Stakes Heists, Higher Payouts
❤️ Family Loyalty (except when it comes to Bellamy 🤭)
Immediately thrown into the heist carried out by the Hale family, I was completely hooked from the beginning. Bellamy, her sister, Lola & their brother, Beckett are a perfect, precise crew. This trio gets in and out without a trace. But then they catch the eyes of the Calloway family, and pretty soon they're working heists together. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer & all that. Buttt Bellamy has history with the Calloways. Each is intrigued by her for their own reasons & Bellamy, well, how does she choose just one?!
Bellamy is an absolute baddie. The eldest daughter & leader of her family, I loved how she was the strong & fierce protector, but also soft & somewhat vulnerable when it came to the Calloway brothers. The unspoken language she has with her sister, Lola was probably one of my favorite aspects of this book. And then the dynamic between the Calloway brothers was hilarious. Each brother brings his own charm & although I am a Rafe & Bishop girlie, I do think you fall for each of them in their own way.
When I tell you I was waiting for the other shoe to drop the entire time, my god I was on edge like I was sitting in the van doing recon with them. Again, this one ends on a CRAZY cliffhanger & you better believe I am already counting down the days for book 2!
❤️ Dark Romance
🖤 Why Choose
❤️ Slow Burn
🖤 High-Stakes Heists, Higher Payouts
❤️ Family Loyalty (except when it comes to Bellamy 🤭)
Immediately thrown into the heist carried out by the Hale family, I was completely hooked from the beginning. Bellamy, her sister, Lola & their brother, Beckett are a perfect, precise crew. This trio gets in and out without a trace. But then they catch the eyes of the Calloway family, and pretty soon they're working heists together. Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer & all that. Buttt Bellamy has history with the Calloways. Each is intrigued by her for their own reasons & Bellamy, well, how does she choose just one?!
Bellamy is an absolute baddie. The eldest daughter & leader of her family, I loved how she was the strong & fierce protector, but also soft & somewhat vulnerable when it came to the Calloway brothers. The unspoken language she has with her sister, Lola was probably one of my favorite aspects of this book. And then the dynamic between the Calloway brothers was hilarious. Each brother brings his own charm & although I am a Rafe & Bishop girlie, I do think you fall for each of them in their own way.
When I tell you I was waiting for the other shoe to drop the entire time, my god I was on edge like I was sitting in the van doing recon with them. Again, this one ends on a CRAZY cliffhanger & you better believe I am already counting down the days for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is book 1 in the next series from Penelope Black. Let me just start by saying this book delivers serious Animal Kingdom vibes for me. It is gritty, dangerous, and emotionally explosive, all set in Hollow Beach and I couldn’t get enough.
Bellamy returns after six years away. The high-risk “jobs” she and her siblings do keep them safe, fed, and together. It’s the only way she knows to survive. But walking back into Hollow Beach means walking straight into the orbit of the Calloway brothers, the thieves she once ran with, loved, trusted, and left.
These men are fire and fury wrapped in loyalty. Each one is his own dynamic when it comes to Bellamy, The sexual tension between all FOUR Calloways is absolutely electric. Their shared history has secrecy, unresolved feelings, and the kind of chemistry that never actually dies, it has just been waiting.
Their mother, Coco, runs the heists with ruthless calculation and demands. She once acted as a mother figure to Bellamy. However, something about her feels off. She is cunning, like there’s more happening behind the scenes than anyone realizes, and I am suspicious in the best possible way.
Then comes the ending . This was a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that left me staring at the last page in stunned silence.
If you love why choose romance, criminal crews, second-chance chaos, emotional slow-burn tension, and high-stakes betrayal, this one absolutely delivers.
Bellamy returns after six years away. The high-risk “jobs” she and her siblings do keep them safe, fed, and together. It’s the only way she knows to survive. But walking back into Hollow Beach means walking straight into the orbit of the Calloway brothers, the thieves she once ran with, loved, trusted, and left.
These men are fire and fury wrapped in loyalty. Each one is his own dynamic when it comes to Bellamy, The sexual tension between all FOUR Calloways is absolutely electric. Their shared history has secrecy, unresolved feelings, and the kind of chemistry that never actually dies, it has just been waiting.
Their mother, Coco, runs the heists with ruthless calculation and demands. She once acted as a mother figure to Bellamy. However, something about her feels off. She is cunning, like there’s more happening behind the scenes than anyone realizes, and I am suspicious in the best possible way.
Then comes the ending . This was a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that left me staring at the last page in stunned silence.
If you love why choose romance, criminal crews, second-chance chaos, emotional slow-burn tension, and high-stakes betrayal, this one absolutely delivers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this book at the perfect time because I had just finished rewatching Animal Kingdom (Iykyk) with my husband and this book gave all the same vibes as that show which I was living for.
This story was so much more than a romance. The intense characters. The scheming. All the unknown. I had never read anything like it. I knew with Penelope she was gonna test my sanity and leave it on a cliffhanger but I still wasn't ready for that ending. I have so many questions now. But the worst thing of all is I feel personally edged by these characters and there damn f*ck me eyes that I don't know how I'll wait for the next book. 🤣
Every Calloway brother had something unique about them and I loved that their personalities were so different but flowed so effortlessly together.
I will say the Hale siblings were my favorite. They are all a bit mysterious and I know there are gonna be secrets that come out at some point. Not just from them but the Calloways as well. I need to know where the Hale siblings have been and what their back story is the last 6 years.
Penelope does such a great job with her why choose because you seriously can't choose. Bellamy with any of the Calloways is a win in my book, I just can't wait to see where it all goes.
Also Chapter 34 was so ominous. Like who was it speaking? I need to know. I have my guesses but I could be so wrong it isn't even funny. 🤣
This story was so much more than a romance. The intense characters. The scheming. All the unknown. I had never read anything like it. I knew with Penelope she was gonna test my sanity and leave it on a cliffhanger but I still wasn't ready for that ending. I have so many questions now. But the worst thing of all is I feel personally edged by these characters and there damn f*ck me eyes that I don't know how I'll wait for the next book. 🤣
Every Calloway brother had something unique about them and I loved that their personalities were so different but flowed so effortlessly together.
I will say the Hale siblings were my favorite. They are all a bit mysterious and I know there are gonna be secrets that come out at some point. Not just from them but the Calloways as well. I need to know where the Hale siblings have been and what their back story is the last 6 years.
Penelope does such a great job with her why choose because you seriously can't choose. Bellamy with any of the Calloways is a win in my book, I just can't wait to see where it all goes.
Also Chapter 34 was so ominous. Like who was it speaking? I need to know. I have my guesses but I could be so wrong it isn't even funny. 🤣
Review of advance copy received from Author
Vengeful by Penelope Black
This give me all the 𝘈𝘯𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘭 𝘒𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘥𝘰𝘮 vibes but make it why choose with the Calloway brothers. After six years the feelings are still there when Bellamy returns back home with her siblings and run into or rather blotch the Calloway job.
It is full of tension between them all and high stakes suspense on the heist. Slow burn with all the lingering sexual tension and some very hot scenes that 😮💨 hit all the spots but we will carry the slow burn into book two. With competitiveness between the brothers for her attention.
I really felt the last few chapter the danger and suspense and expecting something horrible to happen.We are left on a horrible cliff. I enjoyed getting the pov of Bell and all the brothers except Bishop. I think we have some big secrets coming. I was fully invested and can’t wait to see what comes from the ending and all the things I have questions about and the questions and theories are A LOT.
Bellamy Hale-Gage Calloway-Rafe Calloway-Cruz Calloway-Bishop Calloway
Dark Romance
Slow Burn
Why Choose
All the Animal Kingdom Vibes
Heists
This give me all the 𝘈𝘯𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘭 𝘒𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘥𝘰𝘮 vibes but make it why choose with the Calloway brothers. After six years the feelings are still there when Bellamy returns back home with her siblings and run into or rather blotch the Calloway job.
It is full of tension between them all and high stakes suspense on the heist. Slow burn with all the lingering sexual tension and some very hot scenes that 😮💨 hit all the spots but we will carry the slow burn into book two. With competitiveness between the brothers for her attention.
I really felt the last few chapter the danger and suspense and expecting something horrible to happen.We are left on a horrible cliff. I enjoyed getting the pov of Bell and all the brothers except Bishop. I think we have some big secrets coming. I was fully invested and can’t wait to see what comes from the ending and all the things I have questions about and the questions and theories are A LOT.
Bellamy Hale-Gage Calloway-Rafe Calloway-Cruz Calloway-Bishop Calloway
Dark Romance
Slow Burn
Why Choose
All the Animal Kingdom Vibes
Heists
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Read ----
saltwater and sin,
secrets that don’t stay buried.
this is only the beginning
welcome to Hollow Beach.
The first love.
The jealous protector.
The watchful strategist.
The dangerous enforcer.
Bellamy Hale, sister Lola Hale, brother Beckett Hale
The brothers Gage, Rafe, Cruz, Bishop Calloway
Think Oceans movies meets fast and furious meets why choose.
Bellamy appears back at Hollow Beach after 4 years. One job leaves her face to face with Gage Calloway and the start of feelings resurfacing for not just Gage but all 4 brothers. Especially when the two families agree to work together.
This was a book like I have not read before and I am here for it. This book starts of tense and does not loosen its hold. The plot is unique with Heists reminding me of oceans movies. The tension between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers was 🥵 one in particular I feel is going to be the hottest once it happens.
The cliffhanger at the end brutal!!!!
I have my suspicions. I cannot wait to see where this goes. I am pretty sure I already have a favorite brother.
Thank you Penelope Black for the Arc opportunity. Your why choose writing is just 🤌
saltwater and sin,
secrets that don’t stay buried.
this is only the beginning
welcome to Hollow Beach.
The first love.
The jealous protector.
The watchful strategist.
The dangerous enforcer.
Bellamy Hale, sister Lola Hale, brother Beckett Hale
The brothers Gage, Rafe, Cruz, Bishop Calloway
Think Oceans movies meets fast and furious meets why choose.
Bellamy appears back at Hollow Beach after 4 years. One job leaves her face to face with Gage Calloway and the start of feelings resurfacing for not just Gage but all 4 brothers. Especially when the two families agree to work together.
This was a book like I have not read before and I am here for it. This book starts of tense and does not loosen its hold. The plot is unique with Heists reminding me of oceans movies. The tension between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers was 🥵 one in particular I feel is going to be the hottest once it happens.
The cliffhanger at the end brutal!!!!
I have my suspicions. I cannot wait to see where this goes. I am pretty sure I already have a favorite brother.
Thank you Penelope Black for the Arc opportunity. Your why choose writing is just 🤌
January 29, 2026
“For the briefest moment, it makes me think maybe I can live like this—always a little sore, always a little sunburned, always a little empty in a way that feels almost holy.”
P E N E L O P E! Dear lord woman. Pulling a quote for this review was nearly impossible because there were so many amazing ones to choose from. Speaking of choosing…
I am a sucker for why choose. Suspenseful and intense why choose? Even better. Pen came out swinging with book one in this series. The heist aspect in this book was giving Point Break vibes and so well executed (I love that movie I even named my dog after a character). I absolutely adore heist movies but they are not always done well in books, Pen really said “watch how it’s done”. All the details that went into the planning - chef’s kiss. And during the actual heists I was holding my breath - which is not good for an asthmatic, but I will sacrifice my lungs for this book!
The cliffhanger?!?! Well I will tell you nothing about it. I will just say I am counting down the days for the next book.
Thank you Penelope Black for allowing me to read an early copy of this book and I can’t wait for more.
P E N E L O P E! Dear lord woman. Pulling a quote for this review was nearly impossible because there were so many amazing ones to choose from. Speaking of choosing…
I am a sucker for why choose. Suspenseful and intense why choose? Even better. Pen came out swinging with book one in this series. The heist aspect in this book was giving Point Break vibes and so well executed (I love that movie I even named my dog after a character). I absolutely adore heist movies but they are not always done well in books, Pen really said “watch how it’s done”. All the details that went into the planning - chef’s kiss. And during the actual heists I was holding my breath - which is not good for an asthmatic, but I will sacrifice my lungs for this book!
The cliffhanger?!?! Well I will tell you nothing about it. I will just say I am counting down the days for the next book.
Thank you Penelope Black for allowing me to read an early copy of this book and I can’t wait for more.
January 25, 2026
MY GIRL PEN!!!! Literally devoured this book like I just made it through 3719 days in a desert with no food or water because this book FED ME. I have been asking (no, BEGGING) for romance books with heists in them for literal years and this book freaking delivered. The heists are so cool and well done and I loved every stressful second. Then throw in the romance and it was even better! The tension, the heat, the yearning, and all four guys truly just made the story even better. Bellamy is the coolest girl (with pretty awesome siblings) and I loved reading her POV. Gage, Cruz, Rafe, and Bishop though? Please. I was kicking my feet screaming more than once while reading. I fear I am absolutely FERAL for this whole series already. Dive into this crazy world of heists and embrace the inevitable cliffy you’ll have to think about daily until the next book in the series comes out. Honestly I just don’t even have enough good things to say about it because it is exactly the kind of book I’ve been longing to read for so long. I can’t wait to reread it about 27 more times this year.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
What a great dark, why choose romance that emanates Ocean 11 vibes. Bellamy Hale has returned Hollow Beach with her brother and sister. She's smart, witty, fair, and fiercely protective of her family. She usually runs point for her family, and you can feel this heavy responsibility of taking care of her family on her shoulders. Then you have the Calloway brothers - Bishop is the oldest. He's usually the decision maker. He's broody and doesn't trust outsiders. Rafe is stealthy and sexy, and you do not want to get on his bad side. Gage is the sweetheart. Underneath his enforcer vibes, he seems to be the big teddy bear out of the brothers. And Cruz, the youngest, has this mischieviousness underlying his carefree demeanor. There's a magnetic attraction between the four brothers and Bellamy. She has very distinct relationships with each other them, and there's this sizzling tension that runs throughout the book. The cliffhanger had my jaw dropping, and I really want to know what happens next. I kind of wish that there was more backstory woven into this book. I hope we get more back story in the second book, because I think it's important to fully understand each relationship. However, the heists and the teasing of their relationships definitely kept me turning the page and wanting more. Can't wait for the second book!
What a great dark, why choose romance that emanates Ocean 11 vibes. Bellamy Hale has returned Hollow Beach with her brother and sister. She's smart, witty, fair, and fiercely protective of her family. She usually runs point for her family, and you can feel this heavy responsibility of taking care of her family on her shoulders. Then you have the Calloway brothers - Bishop is the oldest. He's usually the decision maker. He's broody and doesn't trust outsiders. Rafe is stealthy and sexy, and you do not want to get on his bad side. Gage is the sweetheart. Underneath his enforcer vibes, he seems to be the big teddy bear out of the brothers. And Cruz, the youngest, has this mischieviousness underlying his carefree demeanor. There's a magnetic attraction between the four brothers and Bellamy. She has very distinct relationships with each other them, and there's this sizzling tension that runs throughout the book. The cliffhanger had my jaw dropping, and I really want to know what happens next. I kind of wish that there was more backstory woven into this book. I hope we get more back story in the second book, because I think it's important to fully understand each relationship. However, the heists and the teasing of their relationships definitely kept me turning the page and wanting more. Can't wait for the second book!
January 29, 2026
𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐅𝐔𝐋
𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝑶𝒏𝒆
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Penelope Black
Format: e-arc
Bellamy Hale is back in Hollow Beach after being gone for six years. She left behind everything she knew after tragedy struck. She, along with her brother and sister, have been making a living off of taking things that aren’t necessarily theirs to take. It’s that way of living that causes them to cross paths with ghosts from her past….the Calloway brothers. One thing leads to another and all the sudden the Hales and the Calloways are running jobs together. Spending time together brings back old feelings and they’re not just for one Calloway brother.
This was an interesting start to a new series. There’s so much tension between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers and I’m excited to see where that leads. Lola, Bellamy’s sister, may be my favorite character. She’s hilarious and isn’t afraid to speak her mind.
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝑬𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕:
•Dark(ish) Romance
•Childhood Friends
•Slow Burn
•Angst/Tension
•Witty Banter
•Heists
•Cliffhanger Ending
•Why Choose
•Toucher Her and ☠️
𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝑶𝒏𝒆
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Penelope Black
Format: e-arc
Bellamy Hale is back in Hollow Beach after being gone for six years. She left behind everything she knew after tragedy struck. She, along with her brother and sister, have been making a living off of taking things that aren’t necessarily theirs to take. It’s that way of living that causes them to cross paths with ghosts from her past….the Calloway brothers. One thing leads to another and all the sudden the Hales and the Calloways are running jobs together. Spending time together brings back old feelings and they’re not just for one Calloway brother.
This was an interesting start to a new series. There’s so much tension between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers and I’m excited to see where that leads. Lola, Bellamy’s sister, may be my favorite character. She’s hilarious and isn’t afraid to speak her mind.
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝑬𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕:
•Dark(ish) Romance
•Childhood Friends
•Slow Burn
•Angst/Tension
•Witty Banter
•Heists
•Cliffhanger Ending
•Why Choose
•Toucher Her and ☠️
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 dark romance
🖤 why choose
💜ends in cliffhanger ☹
I know it’s not the whole story but the way this booked sucked in me I couldn’t put it down and will now live rent-free driving me crazy while my brain tried to figure out what I think happens. Bellamy and her siblings have been moving from place to place for years doing what they need to so they can survive and now they are finally back home in Hollow Beach. In her childhood she was close to 2 of the 4 Calloway brothers and now that she is back and they are all grown up she begins to feel attraction to them all. The Calloway brothers all have different personalities and places in the family, they also all accept having the Hales around except for the oldest Bishop, but he still sees her while no one is looking. I love all Penelope books, I think she is an amazing author.
Thank you to Penelope Black for the ARC. These are my honest thoughts.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 dark romance
🖤 why choose
💜ends in cliffhanger ☹
I know it’s not the whole story but the way this booked sucked in me I couldn’t put it down and will now live rent-free driving me crazy while my brain tried to figure out what I think happens. Bellamy and her siblings have been moving from place to place for years doing what they need to so they can survive and now they are finally back home in Hollow Beach. In her childhood she was close to 2 of the 4 Calloway brothers and now that she is back and they are all grown up she begins to feel attraction to them all. The Calloway brothers all have different personalities and places in the family, they also all accept having the Hales around except for the oldest Bishop, but he still sees her while no one is looking. I love all Penelope books, I think she is an amazing author.
Thank you to Penelope Black for the ARC. These are my honest thoughts.
Review of advance copy
(4.8 Stars)
Bellamy Hale is making what she can of her troubled upbringing to make sure her siblings are ok. On a “job” that does not go as planned she sees someone that she hasn’t seen since she left Hollow Beach six years prior. Gage Calloway. They run in the same group of people who survive life on their terms and Each works with their family. Now that she is back can they find what they lost once and maybe work together on a “job?” This has Animal Kingdom series vibes if you ever saw that show but with a why choose twist wink, wink! Surfing, crime, action and loyalty to your family are everything to the Calloway brothers and Bellamy Hale but will It lead to their ending. Told at a slower pace to let you see how they work and plan their “jobs”. Be prepared too as those in one jaw dropping cliffhanger making you scream for more. Told in first person and multiple POV.
Bellamy Hale is making what she can of her troubled upbringing to make sure her siblings are ok. On a “job” that does not go as planned she sees someone that she hasn’t seen since she left Hollow Beach six years prior. Gage Calloway. They run in the same group of people who survive life on their terms and Each works with their family. Now that she is back can they find what they lost once and maybe work together on a “job?” This has Animal Kingdom series vibes if you ever saw that show but with a why choose twist wink, wink! Surfing, crime, action and loyalty to your family are everything to the Calloway brothers and Bellamy Hale but will It lead to their ending. Told at a slower pace to let you see how they work and plan their “jobs”. Be prepared too as those in one jaw dropping cliffhanger making you scream for more. Told in first person and multiple POV.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Welcome to Hollow Beach, where the waves are ready and the money is overflowing. Bellamy Hale is back in town with her sister and brother just trying to survive. When she runs into one of the Calloway brothers, she knows that staying under the radar isn’t going to happen any longer. This story takes you on one of the wildest rides ever. You have highs and lows and a couple twists that make your jaw drop while you keep reading to get an answer. We meet up with Bishop, Rafe, Gage and Cruz. All have known Bellamy when they were kids and all are trying to figure out where she has been the last 6 years. We learn about the “jobs” that they all do. The amount of research that had to have gone into the book paid off as you feel like you are right there on the beach with them. I need some answers though after that cliffhanger.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so into this book then it ended on such a cliffhanger, I almost launched my kindle across the room!
Vengeful is a why choose romance with heists, morally grey MCs and suspense. FMC Bellamy Hale returns to her hometown after six years away with her two younger siblings in tow only to be reunited with the four Calloway brothers she grew up with. Some things have changed but the chemistry between them remains the same.
This book was a slow burn! The tension between Bellamy and the Calloways was so hot and we’re only there with 3/4 of the brothers so far! I loved the way Bellamy has a different sort of connection with each brother. I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
Plot is fab, characters fab. No complaints apart from having to wait to see what happens!
4/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️ (I reckon this will heat up in the next book)
Vengeful is a why choose romance with heists, morally grey MCs and suspense. FMC Bellamy Hale returns to her hometown after six years away with her two younger siblings in tow only to be reunited with the four Calloway brothers she grew up with. Some things have changed but the chemistry between them remains the same.
This book was a slow burn! The tension between Bellamy and the Calloways was so hot and we’re only there with 3/4 of the brothers so far! I loved the way Bellamy has a different sort of connection with each brother. I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
Plot is fab, characters fab. No complaints apart from having to wait to see what happens!
4/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️ (I reckon this will heat up in the next book)
January 26, 2026
As a first time reader of Penelope Black, I had no idea what to expect, but I really enjoyed my time in Hollow Beach! There’s so much intrigue and mystery going on that kept me guessing and wondering not only what happened in the past but also what’s going to happen next! Vengeful gives us the beginnings of what will turn into a reverse harem and we get multi-POV, which expertly provides distinct personalities for each of the characters. There are heists upon heists and my anxiety is well aware of that fact! I was on the edge of my seat with all the danger and angst! I absolutely love Bellamy - she’s strong in her own right and challenges the guys, which results in a lot of interesting and tension-riddled confrontations! The end gives us a heart-pounding cliffhanger and I cannot wait for the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Goodness, Penelope what did you do to us? Every single page sucked me and had me asking…Did that just happen, and yes it totally did. There was so much action and I can’t wait to see where we go from here with the Calloways and the Hales. Bellamy is such a great FMC, strong and fierce, a five going up against Gage, Cruz, Rafe, and Bishop. And those Calloway boys are something else…the tension, the looks, the desires, it was thick and sinful in the best way. The banter between the two crews was so good and I loved that the Hales gave it right back to the Calloways (loved me some Lola). Throw in the heists, crime, twists and turns, a protective matriarch AND that ending and you will be left will have you devouring this. I’m telling you if love anything I’ve described, take a trip to Hollow Beach, where secrets don’t stay buried. You won’t be disappointed.
*Does end in a cliffhanger*
Thank you Penelope for the wild ride that I can’t wait to revisit.
*Does end in a cliffhanger*
Thank you Penelope for the wild ride that I can’t wait to revisit.
January 29, 2026
Vengeful grabbed me from the very first page and never let go. Dark, intense, emotional, and addictive. The Calloway Brothers are everything I love in MMCs: dark, dangerous, dominant, and devastatingly irresistible.
Each brother is beautifully distinct: the first love, the jealous protector, the watchful strategist, and the dangerous enforcer. Their dynamic is layered, complex, and charged with tension. The heroine is strong, complicated, and emotionally real, carrying a past that adds depth to every interaction.
The world of Hollow Beach is gritty and immersive, filled with secrets, danger, and loyalty that cuts deep. The chemistry is explosive, the slow burn is delicious, and the emotional stakes keep climbing until you can’t put it down.
I devoured this in one sitting, and now I’m sitting here staring at the wall because I NEED BOOK 2 IMMEDIATELY.
Each brother is beautifully distinct: the first love, the jealous protector, the watchful strategist, and the dangerous enforcer. Their dynamic is layered, complex, and charged with tension. The heroine is strong, complicated, and emotionally real, carrying a past that adds depth to every interaction.
The world of Hollow Beach is gritty and immersive, filled with secrets, danger, and loyalty that cuts deep. The chemistry is explosive, the slow burn is delicious, and the emotional stakes keep climbing until you can’t put it down.
I devoured this in one sitting, and now I’m sitting here staring at the wall because I NEED BOOK 2 IMMEDIATELY.
January 29, 2026
Great New Series
Bellamy is haunted by so much in her short life. She is just trying to keep her head afloat while also caring for her siblings. When life brings them home and back into the web of the boy she thought she had put behind her she realizes the stakes have never been higher. Now she is playing a game with not only her battered heart but their lives. Regardless, things will never be the same.
This debut novel for Hollow Point was intriguing and at times tense. The characters are each unique and bring something different to the story. There are layers of mysteries surrounding them all. I am curious to see how the story develops, especially after the cliffhanger. This does have some spicy but I would say it is more of a slow burn. Though I think when it does ignite that it will be something else.
Bellamy is haunted by so much in her short life. She is just trying to keep her head afloat while also caring for her siblings. When life brings them home and back into the web of the boy she thought she had put behind her she realizes the stakes have never been higher. Now she is playing a game with not only her battered heart but their lives. Regardless, things will never be the same.
This debut novel for Hollow Point was intriguing and at times tense. The characters are each unique and bring something different to the story. There are layers of mysteries surrounding them all. I am curious to see how the story develops, especially after the cliffhanger. This does have some spicy but I would say it is more of a slow burn. Though I think when it does ignite that it will be something else.
January 25, 2026
Vengeful by Penelope Black eARC Review 🖤
This was unlike any book that I have read and it sucked me in from the very beginning. I cannot wait to see what Penelope has in store for this series and then the ending…. OMG. Just OMG.
There is so much action, the plot is amazing and intense. The tension between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers is so thick that I felt like I was going to explode. 🤯
I am loving the found family vibes, the secrets, the twists and turns, the questions/ unknown and I’m not sure how I’m going to be able to wait for the next book because I need it asap.
saltwater and sin,
secrets that don’t stay buried.
this is only the beginning
welcome to Hollow Beach.
What to expect:
Dark romance
Why choose
Heists, heists, heists,
Thank you Penelope for the arc!
This was unlike any book that I have read and it sucked me in from the very beginning. I cannot wait to see what Penelope has in store for this series and then the ending…. OMG. Just OMG.
There is so much action, the plot is amazing and intense. The tension between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers is so thick that I felt like I was going to explode. 🤯
I am loving the found family vibes, the secrets, the twists and turns, the questions/ unknown and I’m not sure how I’m going to be able to wait for the next book because I need it asap.
saltwater and sin,
secrets that don’t stay buried.
this is only the beginning
welcome to Hollow Beach.
What to expect:
Dark romance
Why choose
Heists, heists, heists,
Thank you Penelope for the arc!
January 26, 2026
Everything about this was addicting. Usually either the plot or the romance stands out more in a book but both were equally amazing. That cliffhanger was brutal and I cannot wait for the next book to see where this goes. All of the MMCs were very different and usually I gravitate towards one MMC that I like above the rest in RH books but I don’t think I could pick- I loved them all. I am excited to learn more about all of the brothers and see how each relationship is going to progress.
There are so many mysterious elements surrounding their back stories and the heists and I can’t wait for more to be revealed.
Thank you, Penelope Black for the opportunity to read this ARC. 🫶🏼 All thoughts in this review are honest and my own.
There are so many mysterious elements surrounding their back stories and the heists and I can’t wait for more to be revealed.
Thank you, Penelope Black for the opportunity to read this ARC. 🫶🏼 All thoughts in this review are honest and my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Vengeful is the first book in the Hollow Beach series by Penelope Black. This is a slow burn with some dark elements. I have a feeling that this series will get darker and steamier as it progresses.
I loved Bellamy. She is such a strong FMC that is not afraid to push boundaries and stand up for herself. I really liked Rafe, Gage, and Cruz; the jury is still out on Bishop. I feel like I need a lot more history on all of these characters and what happened six years ago. I have a lot of questions about what happened and where Bellamy has been for the past six years. I am hoping that some of those questions are answered in the next book.
This book does end in a cliffhanger that may have you yelling at Black, so be prepared. I am certainly excited for the next book now!
I loved Bellamy. She is such a strong FMC that is not afraid to push boundaries and stand up for herself. I really liked Rafe, Gage, and Cruz; the jury is still out on Bishop. I feel like I need a lot more history on all of these characters and what happened six years ago. I have a lot of questions about what happened and where Bellamy has been for the past six years. I am hoping that some of those questions are answered in the next book.
This book does end in a cliffhanger that may have you yelling at Black, so be prepared. I am certainly excited for the next book now!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book brought all the heat!🔥 From the very beginning the attraction with Bellamy and the Calloway brothers (yes…all of them 😉) is so explosive. These guys are all over Bellamy and the jealousy between the brothers is insanely hot. They all have their place and roles in the family and it flows into each of their relationships with Bell. I adored the relationship between Bellamy and her siblings. While Bell is the fierce protective older sister, Lola and Beck are just as protective over Bellamy. I loved the way they worked together and looked out for each other no matter what.
I expected the cliffhanger, I knew it was coming, but man will I be sitting on this cliff until book 2!! I NEED answers. I NEED to know Bellamy’s full story and how these 5 navigate their relationship.
I expected the cliffhanger, I knew it was coming, but man will I be sitting on this cliff until book 2!! I NEED answers. I NEED to know Bellamy’s full story and how these 5 navigate their relationship.
January 26, 2026
OMG! What just happened?? This entire story was flowing and then BAM! Blackness. Holy hell! Ok let’s go back. Bellamy is a great FMC. I love that she doesn’t back down to anything. The guys are interesting especially with Coco. I feel like there’s so much more to that. Gage is sweet and I loved his instantly. Rafe is pretty much the same but with more intensity. Cruz and his laid back personality. Then we have Bishop. I have a feeling by about him and I hope I’m wrong. But we won’t know until the next book because we’re left smoldering on the side of the damn road! And I can’t wait for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, what a start to a series. I loved the pacing and the angst throughout this book. We are following Bellamy and her siblings as they come back to their home town six years after leaving. While doing a heist she runs back into Gage, and things start to fall back into familiar territory with him and some of his brothers. There are heists, tension and spice. I love how she has a different relationship with each of the brothers. I am not positive on what to think about the mother. She seems suspicious to me, but I could be wrong. I need the next book asap cause that cliffhanger was brutal.
Review of advance copy received from Author
infinite stars 🌟
I absolutely loved this book, it was SO addicting and captivating. There is a whole vibe to this book and I was living for it; beach and surfers, hot broody brothers, and intense Heists!
Bellamy Hale is the FMC, and man is she ever a total bad ass. Her siblings, Lola and Beckett, are also top tier. Their family dynamic is amazing and full of love and survival. The we have the Calloway brothers; Gage, Cruz, Rafe and Bishop. Yeah they are all SO spicy and full of mysterious vibes you can't help but love them all for their own traits.
Beware this book ends on a cliff hanger and it is SO intense. I need the next book ASAP!
I absolutely loved this book, it was SO addicting and captivating. There is a whole vibe to this book and I was living for it; beach and surfers, hot broody brothers, and intense Heists!
Bellamy Hale is the FMC, and man is she ever a total bad ass. Her siblings, Lola and Beckett, are also top tier. Their family dynamic is amazing and full of love and survival. The we have the Calloway brothers; Gage, Cruz, Rafe and Bishop. Yeah they are all SO spicy and full of mysterious vibes you can't help but love them all for their own traits.
Beware this book ends on a cliff hanger and it is SO intense. I need the next book ASAP!
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