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Hollow Beach #2
Wrathful
Nothing in Hollow Beach stays buried.
Not secrets. Not desire. Not the past.
The storm is just getting started.
Not secrets. Not desire. Not the past.
The storm is just getting started.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2026
About the author
Penelope Black
50 books1,996 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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Keep up with Penelope on all platforms:
Newsletter—>bit.ly/PensNL
Facebook—> facebook.com/author.penelope.black
Facebook group—> facebook.com/groups/penelopeblack
Instagram—> instagram.com/authorpenelopeblack/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 14, 2026
Heads up: this is not a standalone.
The first book ends on a cliffhanger.
And thanks a lot Penelope Black, this one ends on a cliffhanger too. 😐🤣
This is a why choose type situation.
Four brothers.
Heists.
Ocean setting.
I just read 300 pages and I still have no answers!!!
My brother rating following this book from who I’d pick first and then:
Bishop
Gage
Cruz
Rafe (sorry)
Bellamy girl… I’m with Lola mindset…
Arc review ✨
The first book ends on a cliffhanger.
And thanks a lot Penelope Black, this one ends on a cliffhanger too. 😐🤣
This is a why choose type situation.
Four brothers.
Heists.
Ocean setting.
I just read 300 pages and I still have no answers!!!
My brother rating following this book from who I’d pick first and then:
Bishop
Gage
Cruz
Rafe (sorry)
Bellamy girl… I’m with Lola mindset…
Arc review ✨
May 12, 2026
PENELOPE (I don't know your middle name) BLACK! Miss Ma'am! This whole series will go down in history as my favorite series ever! The vibes of this whole series is PURE PERFECTION!
Ok now before I go any further, if you have NOT read Vengeful, which is book 1 in the Hollow Beach series, you need to stop, turn around and not pass go because you NEED to read Vengeful first. Vengeful is left on a cliffhanger, which means, you will not understand Wrathful if you do not read Vengeful. This series is a dark why choose that follows FOUR brothers and one VERY lucky lady. So PLEASE read Vengeful. Ok now that that's out of the way, back to the review.
This series is so different than anything I have ever read and I am fully locked in. I am so invested on not only the plot but also each and every individual relationship that Bellamy has with the brothers. Let's talk plot first, because holy moly, this plot is so fun. This book is if the show Outer Banks and Oceans 11 had a baby but make it a dark why choose. The plot will have you fully locked in while also continually guessing what will happen next.
Now let's talk about the relationship arc between Bellamy and each Calloway brother. Bellamy is one lucky lady because she has caught the eyes of ALL FOUR brothers baby! Penelope has done an amazing job showing the relationship development between Bellamy and her men. Which I truly enjoyed. You see how she has a very different relationship with each brother. You are brought along the journey. You feel the tension. The longing. And you can also feel one brother quite literally hanging on by a thread. Which I truly enjoy. I feel like a lot of why choose books have a heavy focus on the spice and sexual relationships between the characters and this one is so different. It's very much a tension filled slow burn and so delicious.
Penelope, you did it again and I can NOT wait for book 3!
Ok now before I go any further, if you have NOT read Vengeful, which is book 1 in the Hollow Beach series, you need to stop, turn around and not pass go because you NEED to read Vengeful first. Vengeful is left on a cliffhanger, which means, you will not understand Wrathful if you do not read Vengeful. This series is a dark why choose that follows FOUR brothers and one VERY lucky lady. So PLEASE read Vengeful. Ok now that that's out of the way, back to the review.
This series is so different than anything I have ever read and I am fully locked in. I am so invested on not only the plot but also each and every individual relationship that Bellamy has with the brothers. Let's talk plot first, because holy moly, this plot is so fun. This book is if the show Outer Banks and Oceans 11 had a baby but make it a dark why choose. The plot will have you fully locked in while also continually guessing what will happen next.
Now let's talk about the relationship arc between Bellamy and each Calloway brother. Bellamy is one lucky lady because she has caught the eyes of ALL FOUR brothers baby! Penelope has done an amazing job showing the relationship development between Bellamy and her men. Which I truly enjoyed. You see how she has a very different relationship with each brother. You are brought along the journey. You feel the tension. The longing. And you can also feel one brother quite literally hanging on by a thread. Which I truly enjoy. I feel like a lot of why choose books have a heavy focus on the spice and sexual relationships between the characters and this one is so different. It's very much a tension filled slow burn and so delicious.
Penelope, you did it again and I can NOT wait for book 3!
May 7, 2026
Bellamy, Gage, Rafe, Cruz, + (more than likely this time) Bishop
-dark romance
-mfmmm whychoose
-second chance
-morally grey mcs
-one bed
-heists
all my thoughts from book one are still the same...even more so with coco cause like...homegirl is sus. but also like bishop is...hot? like so hot...& like literally basically nothing even happened between him & bellamy but like i'm just so into him haha idk what it is i can't explain it haha but THAT ENDING?? HOLYYYY FUCKING SHITTTT THAT WAS WILDDDD!!!
ohhhh this is going to be a good one!! there is sooo much potential still to figure out how these relationships will connect & develop! i looovveee me some good heist plots tho & these characters are gooooood!! & like what is coco's deal? can't wait to find out!!
-dark romance
-mfmmm whychoose
-second chance
-morally grey mcs
-one bed
-heists
all my thoughts from book one are still the same...even more so with coco cause like...homegirl is sus. but also like bishop is...hot? like so hot...& like literally basically nothing even happened between him & bellamy but like i'm just so into him haha idk what it is i can't explain it haha but THAT ENDING?? HOLYYYY FUCKING SHITTTT THAT WAS WILDDDD!!!
ohhhh this is going to be a good one!! there is sooo much potential still to figure out how these relationships will connect & develop! i looovveee me some good heist plots tho & these characters are gooooood!! & like what is coco's deal? can't wait to find out!!
May 12, 2026
Wrathful had me pacing around my house like I was personally involved in the investigation because EVERY SINGLE TIME I thought I had a grip on what was happening, this book snatched it away and set it on fire. The twists? Aggressive. The tension? Illegal. The emotional damage? Extensive.
Bishop is out here fighting his feelings like he’s in a gladiator arena and I’m exhausted FOR him. Sir, the attraction has already won. Please stop acting like resisting is noble when we can all see the spiral happening in real time. The man is one bad decision away from a complete emotional collapse and honestly? I support it.
And Rafe...god help me, I would follow that man directly into catastrophe with zero hesitation. That’s not even a character anymore, that’s a controlled substance. Every scene with him felt like the literary equivalent of someone lighting a match in a fireworks factory. I was giggling. I was stressed. I was clutching my Kindle like it owed me money.
Also can we talk about how the spice and plot are locked in perfect formation?? Nobody’s interrupting the story for the sake of spice. It all builds together so every scene hits twice as hard. Emotional whiplash wrapped in sexual tension and bad decisions. Delicious.
But THAT ENDING???
Penelope Black looked me directly in the eyes, shattered my nervous system, and then rolled credits. I finished the last page and just stared into space like a Victorian woman dying of heartbreak. Vengeful’s cliffhanger hurt, but Wrathful escalated things into psychological warfare.
Book 3 needs to arrive immediately because I am hanging off the edge of sanity by a single thread. Respectfully, Penelope Black owes me compensation for emotional damages, loss of sleep, and the fact that I now distrust every calm moment in a book.
May 16, 2026
Wrathful is book 2 in the Hollow Beach series and NEEDS to be read after Vengful!
"FAMILY. BLOOD. LOYALTY."
I'm thoroughly convinced that Pen wrote this book to destroy me and every other reader! Totally freaking out right now! Like, WHY? WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS?? I thought you loved us, Pen!
Complete CHAOS & LOVED EVERY FREAKING MINUTE OF IT!!
Just when I thought I had a handle on this story, something new was thrown my way and then the tension between Bell and the Calloways never let up! Every heated moment felt intentional, tense and perfectly timed around the story. There's so many secrets to uncover, betrayals happening and the emotional turmoil unfolding around it all. So much to unpack but I wouldn't have it any other way!
Now let's discuss the Calloway brothers...Gage, my golden retriever...loving him! Cruz, the baby of the crew...I'm rooting for you buddy! Bishop, the broody older brother that needs to either shit or get off the pot already! I mean seriously dude, enough is enough. And Rafe...Oh Rafe! I think you just bumped Gage from being my favorite Calloway brother! You my brother just tore into my chest and ripped out my heart!
Now...can I just say WTF was that ending??? The only thing that kept me from throwing my kindle was I was on a plane and didn't want to get arrested but I nearly FREAKED OUT! I don't know if I'll recover from that ending. I'm still stressing about it several days later! All I know is that the next book better get here quick because I don't think I can sit with these emotions much longer!
I NEED! I NEED TO KNOW WHAT COMES NEXT!!
Pen, give me something please!!! I begging you!!!
"FAMILY. BLOOD. LOYALTY."
I'm thoroughly convinced that Pen wrote this book to destroy me and every other reader! Totally freaking out right now! Like, WHY? WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS?? I thought you loved us, Pen!
Complete CHAOS & LOVED EVERY FREAKING MINUTE OF IT!!
Just when I thought I had a handle on this story, something new was thrown my way and then the tension between Bell and the Calloways never let up! Every heated moment felt intentional, tense and perfectly timed around the story. There's so many secrets to uncover, betrayals happening and the emotional turmoil unfolding around it all. So much to unpack but I wouldn't have it any other way!
Now let's discuss the Calloway brothers...Gage, my golden retriever...loving him! Cruz, the baby of the crew...I'm rooting for you buddy! Bishop, the broody older brother that needs to either shit or get off the pot already! I mean seriously dude, enough is enough. And Rafe...Oh Rafe! I think you just bumped Gage from being my favorite Calloway brother! You my brother just tore into my chest and ripped out my heart!
Now...can I just say WTF was that ending??? The only thing that kept me from throwing my kindle was I was on a plane and didn't want to get arrested but I nearly FREAKED OUT! I don't know if I'll recover from that ending. I'm still stressing about it several days later! All I know is that the next book better get here quick because I don't think I can sit with these emotions much longer!
I NEED! I NEED TO KNOW WHAT COMES NEXT!!
Pen, give me something please!!! I begging you!!!
May 11, 2026
When I tell you this series has me in a chokehold, I am not exaggerating. The ending and the cliffhanger at the end of this one, though? Epic and leaving me wanting more!
This book picked up where Book 1 left off and man was it wild! The Calloways and Bellamy must pick up the pieces from their job gone bad. They are itching for revenge and their money back.
We get to see more of Bellamy with each brother in the book. Is it toxic? Yes. Do we love it? Absolutely. I was just blown away again how these 4 brothers are completely obsessed with her and would do anything for her. The protectiveness and the possessiveness…HERE FOR IT.
This book ends on an unreal cliffhanger and I just cannot wait for what Penelope surprises us with next.
P.S. I am absolutely and positively a Rafe girlie. Not sorry about it.
What to expect:
Dark romance
Heists
Found family
Why choose
Morally grey men
Possessive men
Grumpy x sunshine
Thank you Penelope and team for the eARC!
This book picked up where Book 1 left off and man was it wild! The Calloways and Bellamy must pick up the pieces from their job gone bad. They are itching for revenge and their money back.
We get to see more of Bellamy with each brother in the book. Is it toxic? Yes. Do we love it? Absolutely. I was just blown away again how these 4 brothers are completely obsessed with her and would do anything for her. The protectiveness and the possessiveness…HERE FOR IT.
This book ends on an unreal cliffhanger and I just cannot wait for what Penelope surprises us with next.
P.S. I am absolutely and positively a Rafe girlie. Not sorry about it.
What to expect:
Dark romance
Heists
Found family
Why choose
Morally grey men
Possessive men
Grumpy x sunshine
Thank you Penelope and team for the eARC!
May 10, 2026
Wrathful
Dark Romance
Why Choose
High Stakes Heists
Jaw Dropping Cliffhanger
I am usually not a why choose girlie but Penelope Black has me in a chokehold with the Hollow Beach series. The tension is deliciously addicting and the action kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Wrathful picks up right in the middle of the heart pounding cliffhanger of Vengeful and once again, I could not put this book down.
Wrathful brings even more heists. [I have so many questions about CoCo] The tension is already THICK yet continues to freaking build between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers. The spice is HOT AF! Anddd another cliffhanger… My jaw was on the floor the last few pages of this book and AGAIN I need the next book NOW!
𝘽𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙥 𝘾𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙮…𝙨𝙞𝙧! 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙎𝘼𝙏 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜
Huge thanks to Penelope Black for the gifted ARC of Wrathful.
Dark Romance
Why Choose
High Stakes Heists
Jaw Dropping Cliffhanger
I am usually not a why choose girlie but Penelope Black has me in a chokehold with the Hollow Beach series. The tension is deliciously addicting and the action kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Wrathful picks up right in the middle of the heart pounding cliffhanger of Vengeful and once again, I could not put this book down.
Wrathful brings even more heists. [I have so many questions about CoCo] The tension is already THICK yet continues to freaking build between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers. The spice is HOT AF! Anddd another cliffhanger… My jaw was on the floor the last few pages of this book and AGAIN I need the next book NOW!
𝘽𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙥 𝘾𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙮…𝙨𝙞𝙧! 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙎𝘼𝙏 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜
Huge thanks to Penelope Black for the gifted ARC of Wrathful.
May 8, 2026
The crew is all back in part two of this why choose series. Bellamy, Rafe, Cruz, Bishop & Gage are back and this begins right where the epic and shocking cliffhanger left us. When a job goes wrong can they find the ones that cause the damage? Action, tension and a spark that will ignite the pages between these Calloway men and their Bellamy. Woah, you definitely need a fan to cool off from the connection they each have with her. Fans of the TV series Animal Kingdom will devour this intense and h€ated why choose romance. Oh and be patient as this ends in another jaw dropping cliffhanger! Told in first person and multiple POV.
May 16, 2026
Well what the he**!!!
What is that ending!!
I really enjoyed this adventure of a book! I can’t wait to see where this is going these guys, they constantly have me on my toes wondering what they will do next!! And Bellamy ugh girl what are you doing to me!!
Rafe oh sweet man!! That all for now!!
What is that ending!!
I really enjoyed this adventure of a book! I can’t wait to see where this is going these guys, they constantly have me on my toes wondering what they will do next!! And Bellamy ugh girl what are you doing to me!!
Rafe oh sweet man!! That all for now!!
May 13, 2026
What! That cliffhanger was insane. Im obsessed with Bellamy and the brothers. I feel like Coco is shaaaaaaady and thats gonna soon come to light and I cannot wait. I need book 3!
May 15, 2026
So freaking excited to be back in Hollow Beach. If you are new here, this is NOT a standalone. Book 1, Vengeful, ends on a cliffhanger and so does Wrathful (which I knew going in but still was shocked at the end).
This is a dark why choose with BROTHERS. And it is messy and I have loved every single second of it.
All I can tell you without spoilers is that at this point, we are locked in. We are feral. We are desperate for book 3.
This is a dark why choose with BROTHERS. And it is messy and I have loved every single second of it.
All I can tell you without spoilers is that at this point, we are locked in. We are feral. We are desperate for book 3.
May 11, 2026
✨Wrathful - Penelope Black✨
“I knew it was gonna end on a cliffhanger. I knew I would most likely die. I tried to prepare. I failed. I’m gonna need sometime to process this cliffhanger and the fact that I need to wait to continue Bellamy’s story. I’m invested. Like, really invested. I have many questions, wishes, and demands and I cannot wait to see where this story leads.”
This is how I started my review for Vengeful, the first book in this series. And I can tell you it applies to Wrathful as well. Miss Penelope herself warned me I would most likely need therapy after this cliffhanger and she was right…. I am currently sat on the train typing this with tears in my eyes. I do not know how I’ll survive until the next book. And I really don’t know how I’m going to work after this. I need at least a day to process my emotions. Rafe’s confession just broke me. These men are all gonna break me and I’ll happily let them.
I can honestly say I’m insanely jealous of the men in Bellamy’s life and I will now go freeze myself or something so I can wake up for book three.
Don’t let my emotions scare you if though, this series is absolutely amazing so far! It’s written in a way that you feel all the emotions and you just get really sucked in. I felt like I was living that life of crime with those 4 insanely hot guys. Unfortunately I wasn’t (Okay maybe I’m happy about not living the crime part lol). And lucky for you Wrathful is out now so you can go read it!!
Read this book if you’re looking for:
🖤 Why Choose
🖤 Slow burn
🖤 Dark romance
🖤 Heists, heists, heists
🖤 Morally grey, obsessive heroes
“I knew it was gonna end on a cliffhanger. I knew I would most likely die. I tried to prepare. I failed. I’m gonna need sometime to process this cliffhanger and the fact that I need to wait to continue Bellamy’s story. I’m invested. Like, really invested. I have many questions, wishes, and demands and I cannot wait to see where this story leads.”
This is how I started my review for Vengeful, the first book in this series. And I can tell you it applies to Wrathful as well. Miss Penelope herself warned me I would most likely need therapy after this cliffhanger and she was right…. I am currently sat on the train typing this with tears in my eyes. I do not know how I’ll survive until the next book. And I really don’t know how I’m going to work after this. I need at least a day to process my emotions. Rafe’s confession just broke me. These men are all gonna break me and I’ll happily let them.
I can honestly say I’m insanely jealous of the men in Bellamy’s life and I will now go freeze myself or something so I can wake up for book three.
Don’t let my emotions scare you if though, this series is absolutely amazing so far! It’s written in a way that you feel all the emotions and you just get really sucked in. I felt like I was living that life of crime with those 4 insanely hot guys. Unfortunately I wasn’t (Okay maybe I’m happy about not living the crime part lol). And lucky for you Wrathful is out now so you can go read it!!
Read this book if you’re looking for:
🖤 Why Choose
🖤 Slow burn
🖤 Dark romance
🖤 Heists, heists, heists
🖤 Morally grey, obsessive heroes
May 8, 2026
Penelope Black really woke up and chose violence, I swear, because WHY did this book grab me by the throat, whisper “you wanted answers?” and then give me one answer and forty‑seven new problems all while laughing like a movie villain. I feel like I’m in a group project where the plot is sprinting, the characters are feral, and I’m just here holding my iced coffee like “???”.
The story just seems to say….“Oh you thought you understood something? Cute. Here’s another twist. And another. And also trauma for some extra flavor”
Meanwhile the spice is developing like it’s on a synchronized swim team with the plot. Perfectly timed. Perfectly chaotic. Perfectly ruining my life.We have Bishop over here fighting his attraction like it’s a full‑time job with benefits. Sir. Please clock out. Go home. Give in already. I’m begging you.
And RAFE???
My emotional support menace. My favorite MMC. Every time he appears I’m like “yes king ruin me emotionally and narratively.” And ruin me he does.
Then that CLIFFHANGER. The end of Vengeful hurt, but this one…this one was a war crime. I finished the last page and just sat there blinking like a traumatized owl. I need book 3 like I need oxygen. I am unwell. I am feral. I am considering time travel. I’m sending Penelope Black my therapy bill.
Penelope Black, ma’am, respectfully:
DROP. THE. NEXT. BOOK.
The story just seems to say….“Oh you thought you understood something? Cute. Here’s another twist. And another. And also trauma for some extra flavor”
Meanwhile the spice is developing like it’s on a synchronized swim team with the plot. Perfectly timed. Perfectly chaotic. Perfectly ruining my life.We have Bishop over here fighting his attraction like it’s a full‑time job with benefits. Sir. Please clock out. Go home. Give in already. I’m begging you.
And RAFE???
My emotional support menace. My favorite MMC. Every time he appears I’m like “yes king ruin me emotionally and narratively.” And ruin me he does.
Then that CLIFFHANGER. The end of Vengeful hurt, but this one…this one was a war crime. I finished the last page and just sat there blinking like a traumatized owl. I need book 3 like I need oxygen. I am unwell. I am feral. I am considering time travel. I’m sending Penelope Black my therapy bill.
Penelope Black, ma’am, respectfully:
DROP. THE. NEXT. BOOK.
May 15, 2026
✩4
✦What to Expect✦
•Dark romance
•Why choose
•Morally gray
•Heists
•One Bed
✦Characters✦
•Bellamy Hale
•Gage Calloway
•Rafe Calloway
•Cruz Calloway
•Bishop Calloway
✦Fav Quotes✦
“What,”
“my brother didn’t kiss it better for you last night?”
“Don’t look at him.”
“He doesn’t mind. Do you, brother?”
“Tell me, brother,”
“Whose name did she call out—mine or yours?”
“I don't think I want to share you, baby.”
“What if I want to be shared?”
✦Thoughts✦
OH MY GOD…
PENELOPE!!!!!!!!! That ending?!?!? 🤯
This book & series so far has been unique and addicting af!!!! I simply won’t be picking a fav brother either bc go dammmmmmm all of them have me panting. Bell you lucky bitch hahaha
The motel!!!
The BIKE OMGGGGGG
I am deceased okay. H-O-T
Once again I’ll be sitting here staring at a wall until I get the next book 👀
Also Lola needs her own book bc she’s hilarious!!
✦Micro-Tropes✦
•Hand necklaces
•”Good girl”
•”Crawl to me”
•”Ride my face”
•69
•Rimming🍑
•🏍️ 💥
•ARC Read•
✦ Bookish links to follow ✦
Bookstagram • Goodreads • BookBub • Storygraph • Fable
✦What to Expect✦
•Dark romance
•Why choose
•Morally gray
•Heists
•One Bed
✦Characters✦
•Bellamy Hale
•Gage Calloway
•Rafe Calloway
•Cruz Calloway
•Bishop Calloway
✦Fav Quotes✦
“What,”
“my brother didn’t kiss it better for you last night?”
“Don’t look at him.”
“He doesn’t mind. Do you, brother?”
“Tell me, brother,”
“Whose name did she call out—mine or yours?”
“I don't think I want to share you, baby.”
“What if I want to be shared?”
✦Thoughts✦
OH MY GOD…
PENELOPE!!!!!!!!! That ending?!?!? 🤯
This book & series so far has been unique and addicting af!!!! I simply won’t be picking a fav brother either bc go dammmmmmm all of them have me panting. Bell you lucky bitch hahaha
The motel!!!
The BIKE OMGGGGGG
I am deceased okay. H-O-T
Once again I’ll be sitting here staring at a wall until I get the next book 👀
Also Lola needs her own book bc she’s hilarious!!
✦Micro-Tropes✦
•Hand necklaces
•”Good girl”
•”Crawl to me”
•”Ride my face”
•69
•Rimming🍑
•🏍️ 💥
•ARC Read•
✦ Bookish links to follow ✦
Bookstagram • Goodreads • BookBub • Storygraph • Fable
May 10, 2026
Thank you to Penelope Black and team for the e-arc in exchange for my review. All opinions that follow are honest and my own.
Book 2 of the Hollow Beach series picks up right where we left off (thank goodness because that cliff hanger was insane) and gets right back into the story.
The Calloway brothers and Bellamy and her siblings are trying to figure out what happened during their last job and Coco is still being as flighty as ever. And of course we have Bellamy with each Calloway brother in their own way and I am here for it.
Now this book was definitely entertaining. Lots of behind the scenes things going on that keep you on the edge of your seat. Always love a suspenseful plot that fills up the space between the always phenomenal spice. Do I wish that there was a bit more communication between Bellamy and the brothers because it would definitely allow for some better progression of relationships? Um yeah obviously, who doesn’t want that. But it does make the tension that much deeper which I live for.
Now we do end on another huge cliffhanger but honestly this one hits different because Rafe (prob my fave brother ngl) and his confession and just demeanour during that scene had me swooning. Don’t know how Bellamy kept her cool.
Anyways imma need the next book like now.
Book 2 of the Hollow Beach series picks up right where we left off (thank goodness because that cliff hanger was insane) and gets right back into the story.
The Calloway brothers and Bellamy and her siblings are trying to figure out what happened during their last job and Coco is still being as flighty as ever. And of course we have Bellamy with each Calloway brother in their own way and I am here for it.
Now this book was definitely entertaining. Lots of behind the scenes things going on that keep you on the edge of your seat. Always love a suspenseful plot that fills up the space between the always phenomenal spice. Do I wish that there was a bit more communication between Bellamy and the brothers because it would definitely allow for some better progression of relationships? Um yeah obviously, who doesn’t want that. But it does make the tension that much deeper which I live for.
Now we do end on another huge cliffhanger but honestly this one hits different because Rafe (prob my fave brother ngl) and his confession and just demeanour during that scene had me swooning. Don’t know how Bellamy kept her cool.
Anyways imma need the next book like now.
May 14, 2026
HOLYDARKNESSS!
WHAT DID I JUST READ?!?! 🤯😭
That cliffhanger... EXCUSE ME??? I genuinely had to sit there staring at the wall afterwards because whatthefrigginhell...
Welcome back to Hollow Beach where the chaos is messier, the stakes are higher, the secrets are darker, and I am somehow even more friggin obsessed with the Calloway Brothers. At this point they own my soul.
Every chapter felt like a ticking time bomb. The twists...Jaw-dropping. The heists... Insane. The tension...UNBEARABLE in the best possible way.
And the sexual chemistry...Penelope really said “let’s make everyone lose their minds” because OH. MY. GOD. I am OBFRIGGINSESSED.
There were so many moments where my heart was absolutely pounding and I kept thinking THERE IS NO WAY... can it ... and then somehow it DID. I was gasping, panicking, kicking my feet, clutching my kindle… the emotional damage was REAL.
Penelope’s writing is honestly cinematic perfection. These books don’t even feel like books anymore, they feel like a full blown movie playing in my head and I am completely addicted.
But THAT ENDING... that left me speechless.
Penelope, respectfully, you cannot just drop a cliffhanger like THAT and walk away. I need book 3 immediately
WHAT DID I JUST READ?!?! 🤯😭
That cliffhanger... EXCUSE ME??? I genuinely had to sit there staring at the wall afterwards because whatthefrigginhell...
Welcome back to Hollow Beach where the chaos is messier, the stakes are higher, the secrets are darker, and I am somehow even more friggin obsessed with the Calloway Brothers. At this point they own my soul.
Every chapter felt like a ticking time bomb. The twists...Jaw-dropping. The heists... Insane. The tension...UNBEARABLE in the best possible way.
And the sexual chemistry...Penelope really said “let’s make everyone lose their minds” because OH. MY. GOD. I am OBFRIGGINSESSED.
There were so many moments where my heart was absolutely pounding and I kept thinking THERE IS NO WAY... can it ... and then somehow it DID. I was gasping, panicking, kicking my feet, clutching my kindle… the emotional damage was REAL.
Penelope’s writing is honestly cinematic perfection. These books don’t even feel like books anymore, they feel like a full blown movie playing in my head and I am completely addicted.
But THAT ENDING... that left me speechless.
Penelope, respectfully, you cannot just drop a cliffhanger like THAT and walk away. I need book 3 immediately
May 14, 2026
"We were something once, weren't we?"
THE CLIFFHANGER?! Penelope, WHY!? And I mean that in the most loving way, but damn talk about some emotional damage that I wasn't ready for because how am I supposed to focus on anything else when I need to know more!
❤️ Dark Romance
🖤 Why Choose
❤️ Slow Burn
🖤 High-Stakes Heists, Higher Payouts
❤️ Family Loyalty (except when it comes to Bellamy 🤭)
Wrathful is book 2 in the Hollow Beach series & essentially picks up right where we left off in Vengeful, so if you haven't read book 1, you'll definitely need to in order to understand everything that is currently happening & all of the dynamics.
What an absolute WILD ride! More Heists. More questions. Wayyy more tension. IT IS THICK between the Calloway brothers & Bellamy. I am 100% a Rafe & Bishop girlie, but there's something about each of them that has me sat.
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 right there doing a heist with them. The adrenaline. The build up. The questions. This series has me in a complete chokehold. Again, Wrathful ends on a CRAZY cliffhanger & you better believe I am already desperately counting down the days for book 3!
THE CLIFFHANGER?! Penelope, WHY!? And I mean that in the most loving way, but damn talk about some emotional damage that I wasn't ready for because how am I supposed to focus on anything else when I need to know more!
❤️ Dark Romance
🖤 Why Choose
❤️ Slow Burn
🖤 High-Stakes Heists, Higher Payouts
❤️ Family Loyalty (except when it comes to Bellamy 🤭)
Wrathful is book 2 in the Hollow Beach series & essentially picks up right where we left off in Vengeful, so if you haven't read book 1, you'll definitely need to in order to understand everything that is currently happening & all of the dynamics.
What an absolute WILD ride! More Heists. More questions. Wayyy more tension. IT IS THICK between the Calloway brothers & Bellamy. I am 100% a Rafe & Bishop girlie, but there's something about each of them that has me sat.
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 right there doing a heist with them. The adrenaline. The build up. The questions. This series has me in a complete chokehold. Again, Wrathful ends on a CRAZY cliffhanger & you better believe I am already desperately counting down the days for book 3!
May 12, 2026
Why yes, that rollercoaster of a ride was exactly what I was expecting. Might have had a few more unexpected turns but I am learning that is just how this series is going to go. To keep this as spoiler free as possible, I am only going to touch on the characters themselves. Bellamy is still the bell of the ball. I adore her determination and the attitude she has. I love how she pushes each of the guys to a breaking point and gets to enjoy the reward of that. Lola still cracks me up and she gets some fantastic page time that also gives you a little peek into her life. Bishop, our resident control grumpy guy stays true to this attitude. However, there is one scene that makes you want to earn praise. Rafe, oh Rafe. Sir, you are allowed to take longer than 3 blocks please and thank you. Gage still has my heart. The way he just loves Bells no matter what. And say hello to Cruz as he has quickly moved up to the top of the totem pole of being today’s favorite. Loved this guy so much and I need him to push his brothers back a little bit. We get fantastic heists, some extra love and maybe a cliff jump or two. I am beyond ready for the next book.
May 16, 2026
What in the cliff hanger hell was that .... 😂⭐️👏 Pen always leaves us hanging on the edge with our hearts in our throats! 10/10 I am obsessed and can not wait for more! I need answers!
Wrathful was delicious. I loved this one, this series is really coming together! I am so beyond obsessed with Bellamy and the Calloway brothers. I am also highly invested in the comic relief that is Lola Hale 😂 shes literally the perfect little sister and hype woman that we all want.
Lots of twists and turns, mysterious chapters had me gripping the kindle trying to read between the lines for hints. Of course things are heating up between Bellamy, Gage, Cruz and Rafe... the spice, the heat, and the connection between the boys and Bell is SO good. I'm still hooked on Bishop being my favourite brother because he is SO stubborn but I am just waiting for that damn to break when it comes to Bellamy... we see a little of him shattering in this book so its coming. Rafe was FULLLL on committed in this one. Not to mention the way he is so possessive of Bellamy... ugh swoon. Cruz, lil baby boy, ughhh I just want ao much more of him and Gage together with Bell.
Wrathful was delicious. I loved this one, this series is really coming together! I am so beyond obsessed with Bellamy and the Calloway brothers. I am also highly invested in the comic relief that is Lola Hale 😂 shes literally the perfect little sister and hype woman that we all want.
Lots of twists and turns, mysterious chapters had me gripping the kindle trying to read between the lines for hints. Of course things are heating up between Bellamy, Gage, Cruz and Rafe... the spice, the heat, and the connection between the boys and Bell is SO good. I'm still hooked on Bishop being my favourite brother because he is SO stubborn but I am just waiting for that damn to break when it comes to Bellamy... we see a little of him shattering in this book so its coming. Rafe was FULLLL on committed in this one. Not to mention the way he is so possessive of Bellamy... ugh swoon. Cruz, lil baby boy, ughhh I just want ao much more of him and Gage together with Bell.
May 15, 2026
This book starts off with a bang and it just keeps going. What an actioned packed sequence of events that blows your mind. I could not stop trying to grasp what was happening and trying to figure out what was going to happen throughout the whole book. Bellamy, Gage, Rafe, Cruz and Bishop are working hard trying to figure out who has stolen from them. This brings along a whole lot of secrets, trust issues and betrayals that you know are coming. Then on top off all that you have the relationships that are starting to come about between Bellamy and the guys. Rafe is one steamy dirty talker and the things they get up two melt the pages. Gage is trying to take things slower and show her how much he cares. Cruz is more subtle in the way her pursues her while Bishop still can't get his head on straight when it comes to her, just likes to tease them both a little then acts like a jerk again. Once again i devoured this book I could not get enough then your hit with that explosive cliffhanger and I can't wait for the next book. I was given this book as an ARC for my honest review.
May 10, 2026
Rafe omg
Penelope does RH so dang well. I can't wait to read more. I am hoping this means were getting closer to at least Gage, Cruz and Rafe agreeing to them all working with her and not against each other. I devoured this
I don't trust Coco. Something feels off about her, with her being sneaky with Bellamy's and Lola's brother. The entire situation with the chips feels like a set up from Coco to set Bell up. For the brothers to hate her and stay in Cocos grasp to use her sons how she sees fit. I just doing trust her and I think the boys are starting to see something might be off.
I am waiting to find out Bishops anger. I get the feeling he hurt the most when Bell disappeared on the brothers like a ghost. The pull she has with Rafe was stronger in this one and I don't hate it. Rafe has now moved up on my list. I mean whew he is hot!!! The way he talks sweet jeebus.
I need the next book. I need more.
Penelope does RH so dang well. I can't wait to read more. I am hoping this means were getting closer to at least Gage, Cruz and Rafe agreeing to them all working with her and not against each other. I devoured this
I don't trust Coco. Something feels off about her, with her being sneaky with Bellamy's and Lola's brother. The entire situation with the chips feels like a set up from Coco to set Bell up. For the brothers to hate her and stay in Cocos grasp to use her sons how she sees fit. I just doing trust her and I think the boys are starting to see something might be off.
I am waiting to find out Bishops anger. I get the feeling he hurt the most when Bell disappeared on the brothers like a ghost. The pull she has with Rafe was stronger in this one and I don't hate it. Rafe has now moved up on my list. I mean whew he is hot!!! The way he talks sweet jeebus.
I need the next book. I need more.
May 11, 2026
Review for books 1 and 2
Because somehow I thought this series would be 2 books 😑... And to make matters worse, I have no idea when book 3 is going to be here...
When I started book 1, I got hit with Animal Kingdom (the tv series) vibes. The guys, their roles and characters, the shady mom. I loved that series so I absolutely ate this up.
This is a slow burn, like just barely simmering, but the tension between the fmc and the guys is sky high and it's like you're waiting for it to boil over. You know something's got to give but the question is when.
I don't usually do spoilers but in this case I do want to remind myself of the overall situation at the end of book 2. If you don't want to know anything, stop reading here.
Mom is still MIA and very very shady, Bishop is still being an asshole, Bellamy's disappearance 6 years ago is still a mystery and also highly suspicious and on top of everything they still don't know who was behind the job gone bad.
Because somehow I thought this series would be 2 books 😑... And to make matters worse, I have no idea when book 3 is going to be here...
When I started book 1, I got hit with Animal Kingdom (the tv series) vibes. The guys, their roles and characters, the shady mom. I loved that series so I absolutely ate this up.
This is a slow burn, like just barely simmering, but the tension between the fmc and the guys is sky high and it's like you're waiting for it to boil over. You know something's got to give but the question is when.
I don't usually do spoilers but in this case I do want to remind myself of the overall situation at the end of book 2. If you don't want to know anything, stop reading here.
Mom is still MIA and very very shady, Bishop is still being an asshole, Bellamy's disappearance 6 years ago is still a mystery and also highly suspicious and on top of everything they still don't know who was behind the job gone bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2026
Penelope wtf! Again! Really? You're taking my sanity with these dang cliffhangers. 🤣
I am so invested in this world of hollow beach. This book picks right back up where the first book (Vengeful) leaves off. Which is great because I needed to know what happened!
The suspense in this story is unreal. Every time I think we're getting closer to answers Penelope says sike and throws in a new element. My thoughts are running wild with possibilities on who's doing what and why.
The calloways brothers! It's so hard to pick a favorite. They all have qualities about them I like but I feel Rafe took the lead in this book. The way he calls Bellamy baby. 🫠 And Bishop is falling not far behind. That after the fight scene had so much angst and tension I was sweating. 🥵
I NEED ANSWERS!!! I think this book left on a bigger cliff hanger than the first. I'm just gonna be over here stressed to the max till the next book comes out.
If you're looking for a series with Animal Kingdom vibes but throw in more romance then this is the series for you.
I am so invested in this world of hollow beach. This book picks right back up where the first book (Vengeful) leaves off. Which is great because I needed to know what happened!
The suspense in this story is unreal. Every time I think we're getting closer to answers Penelope says sike and throws in a new element. My thoughts are running wild with possibilities on who's doing what and why.
The calloways brothers! It's so hard to pick a favorite. They all have qualities about them I like but I feel Rafe took the lead in this book. The way he calls Bellamy baby. 🫠 And Bishop is falling not far behind. That after the fight scene had so much angst and tension I was sweating. 🥵
I NEED ANSWERS!!! I think this book left on a bigger cliff hanger than the first. I'm just gonna be over here stressed to the max till the next book comes out.
If you're looking for a series with Animal Kingdom vibes but throw in more romance then this is the series for you.
May 14, 2026
Wow, what a wild ride! This book started off with a bang, literally, and it just kept on surprising me. I thought the ending of the first book was wild but this one just upped the ante. I am loving the firey connection between Bellamy and the guys. The angst, the banter, the tension, all of it is exceptional.
Gage is still my top pick of the guys but Rafe is closing the gap. Both were so attentive and crazy over Bellamy. I did like getting to see a little deeper into Bishop's psyche. It has me more curious about him now. I love the history Bellamy has with Cruz and how that adds to their relationship.
This was a thrilling and sexy story. The motorcycle scene was very hot and titillating. This was quick read because I didn't want to put it down. It was intense and had some nail biting moments that I couldn't look away from. The writing was very captivating and did a great job in describing everything. I'm loving this series and would definitely recommend it!!
Gage is still my top pick of the guys but Rafe is closing the gap. Both were so attentive and crazy over Bellamy. I did like getting to see a little deeper into Bishop's psyche. It has me more curious about him now. I love the history Bellamy has with Cruz and how that adds to their relationship.
This was a thrilling and sexy story. The motorcycle scene was very hot and titillating. This was quick read because I didn't want to put it down. It was intense and had some nail biting moments that I couldn't look away from. The writing was very captivating and did a great job in describing everything. I'm loving this series and would definitely recommend it!!
May 17, 2026
I am screaming with that cliffhanger!! This book is so much more yet not enough. And you know it's super delicious if I finish it in a day! 🫶🏽
Bellamy and the Calloway brothers have me OBSESSED, to say the least, and we get so much more of my guy Rafe in this read. Of course, we pick up where Vengeful left off, and we get pulled in with the thrill of danger and a smirk. *wink, wink* Things don't go as planned when a job goes sideways and they want answers. During the hunt, Bells is living her best life, and her sister Lola is loving every minute of seeing her sister happy. Bishop, on the other hand, does not like what is happening between Bell and the brothers, yet he can't seem to get her out of his mind. 🤔
This one is by far my favorite of the series even though my heart breaks for my man Rafe. #IYKYK But I know Penelope will redeem herself with what she gives us next, and I'm here for it. ❤️
Bellamy and the Calloway brothers have me OBSESSED, to say the least, and we get so much more of my guy Rafe in this read. Of course, we pick up where Vengeful left off, and we get pulled in with the thrill of danger and a smirk. *wink, wink* Things don't go as planned when a job goes sideways and they want answers. During the hunt, Bells is living her best life, and her sister Lola is loving every minute of seeing her sister happy. Bishop, on the other hand, does not like what is happening between Bell and the brothers, yet he can't seem to get her out of his mind. 🤔
This one is by far my favorite of the series even though my heart breaks for my man Rafe. #IYKYK But I know Penelope will redeem herself with what she gives us next, and I'm here for it. ❤️
May 9, 2026
Wrathful by Penelope Black eARC review 🌊
Well that was a wild ride and holy hell don’t mind me just picking my jaw up off the floor with that ending. Mind BLOWN.
Now I’ll be over here wallowing until we get book 3 😅
We have such a toxic, obsessive relationship between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers and goodness it is such a rollercoaster ride, but I can’t get enough!
The book starts off with a bang and it continues to keep you on your toes the entire time.
A found family of criminals, why choose dynamic where the spice is off the charts, and plot twists and turns around every single corner. A great read by Penelope!
What to expect:
Dark romance
Coastal crime
Found family
Why choose dynamic
Possessive, obsessive men
Grumpy x sunshine
Thank you so much Penelope & team for the arc!
Well that was a wild ride and holy hell don’t mind me just picking my jaw up off the floor with that ending. Mind BLOWN.
Now I’ll be over here wallowing until we get book 3 😅
We have such a toxic, obsessive relationship between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers and goodness it is such a rollercoaster ride, but I can’t get enough!
The book starts off with a bang and it continues to keep you on your toes the entire time.
A found family of criminals, why choose dynamic where the spice is off the charts, and plot twists and turns around every single corner. A great read by Penelope!
What to expect:
Dark romance
Coastal crime
Found family
Why choose dynamic
Possessive, obsessive men
Grumpy x sunshine
Thank you so much Penelope & team for the arc!
May 13, 2026
Thank you the author for providing me a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
We start this one right after the nail-biting/cliffhanger ending of the last one, and I was definitely feeling the *stress* while they were dealing with *all that*!
But things quiet down a *bit* after that, while Bellamy is working through her different feelings for all these brothers. There is much flirting, many heavy glances, and some…*other stuff* 👀
Each brother has their own unique personality, and their own unique relationship with Bellamy. I was really loving Rafe in this one, but I couldn’t help but hold my breath every time Bishop and her were alone…always a sucker for the bossy quiet ones in these WC Romances. 😮💨
And ahhhhh 😱 that ending!! Brutal, but can’t wait for the next one! 🙌
What this book is giving:
✅ Dark Romance
✅ Why Choose
✅ Slow Burn
✅ 4 Brothers
✅ Flirting
✅ Heists
✅ Everyone is Morally Gray
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
We start this one right after the nail-biting/cliffhanger ending of the last one, and I was definitely feeling the *stress* while they were dealing with *all that*!
But things quiet down a *bit* after that, while Bellamy is working through her different feelings for all these brothers. There is much flirting, many heavy glances, and some…*other stuff* 👀
Each brother has their own unique personality, and their own unique relationship with Bellamy. I was really loving Rafe in this one, but I couldn’t help but hold my breath every time Bishop and her were alone…always a sucker for the bossy quiet ones in these WC Romances. 😮💨
And ahhhhh 😱 that ending!! Brutal, but can’t wait for the next one! 🙌
What this book is giving:
✅ Dark Romance
✅ Why Choose
✅ Slow Burn
✅ 4 Brothers
✅ Flirting
✅ Heists
✅ Everyone is Morally Gray
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
May 9, 2026
THAT’S HOW IT ENDS!?
I liked this book but it did feel kind of like a filler book to me. nothing really developed in the plot but it did with the relationships.
Rafe is still my favorite 😍 along with Cruz. I have a love/hate relationship with Gage (he really needs to learn that sharing is caring) and Bishop is just bleh 🙄 i’m sure he’ll come around but he’s going to have to really wow me.
Lola & Beck kinda got pushed to the side. i’m suspicious of Beck & Coco but I don’t know for what lol. Bellamy I this is honestly just the most middle of the road main character i’ve ever read. I still want to know what happened to make her leave though.
this Ryder guy is suspicious and I don’t trust him for one second.
I need book 3 because I need this story to MOVE.
I liked this book but it did feel kind of like a filler book to me. nothing really developed in the plot but it did with the relationships.
Rafe is still my favorite 😍 along with Cruz. I have a love/hate relationship with Gage (he really needs to learn that sharing is caring) and Bishop is just bleh 🙄 i’m sure he’ll come around but he’s going to have to really wow me.
Lola & Beck kinda got pushed to the side. i’m suspicious of Beck & Coco but I don’t know for what lol. Bellamy I this is honestly just the most middle of the road main character i’ve ever read. I still want to know what happened to make her leave though.
this Ryder guy is suspicious and I don’t trust him for one second.
I need book 3 because I need this story to MOVE.
May 13, 2026
Oh my, what! Wrathful picks up right in the thick of where Vengeful left off. The mystery and intrigue only builds throughout our second visit to Hollow Beach. And the tension between Bellamy and the Calloway brothers just keeps ratcheting higher and higher. I’ve gotta say though, I typically struggle to choose in a why choose (because, duh), but Rafe is somehow winning on all fronts. He’s my absolute favorite and I love him so much but I’m looking forward to see how my perception might be challenged in the rest of the series. And boy does Penelope know how to play the game - pulls us in with so much angst and tension and then leaves us dangling over a hazardous cliff, on the edge of our seats desperately needing to know what in the heck is going on! I can’t wait to go back to Hollow Beach in the next book!
May 12, 2026
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✔️ Dark Romance
✔️ Heists, Heists, Heists
✔️ Why Choose
✔️ Morally Gray Heroes
✔️ Suspense
✔️ Slow Burn
✔️ Surfing
⚠️ Check trigger warnings; this dark content is for +18 readers
Wrathful picks up right where we left off at the cliffhanger from Vengeful. The team is bound and determined to find out who set them up so they can get their revenge. I have so many suspicions about Coco and her relationships with the boys; I suspect she may betray them down the road. Bell’s relationship intensifies with the Calloway brothers keeping the storyline interesting. I love Bell’s sister, Lola, and her comments. Once again, the cliffhanger has me on the edge of my seat, counting down the days until we get some answers in book three. I am giving Wrathful a rating of 4.5/5 stars.
✔️ Dark Romance
✔️ Heists, Heists, Heists
✔️ Why Choose
✔️ Morally Gray Heroes
✔️ Suspense
✔️ Slow Burn
✔️ Surfing
⚠️ Check trigger warnings; this dark content is for +18 readers
Wrathful picks up right where we left off at the cliffhanger from Vengeful. The team is bound and determined to find out who set them up so they can get their revenge. I have so many suspicions about Coco and her relationships with the boys; I suspect she may betray them down the road. Bell’s relationship intensifies with the Calloway brothers keeping the storyline interesting. I love Bell’s sister, Lola, and her comments. Once again, the cliffhanger has me on the edge of my seat, counting down the days until we get some answers in book three. I am giving Wrathful a rating of 4.5/5 stars.
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