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Owned by Revenge
He took her for revenge. He never expected her to become his weakness.
Emerald Deveraux refuses to be controlled—not by her family, not by the secrets they kept from her, and definitely not by the man who stole her. She should hate him. She tries to. But the more she fights Nikolai Voss, the more she sees the cracks beneath his cold, calculated exterior, and the more dangerous her curiosity becomes.
Because Emerald has always craved a love that consumes…and Nikolai might be the only man capable of giving it to her.
___________
Nikolai Voss doesn’t feel. He takes. He destroys. He finishes what he starts.
Taking Emerald was supposed to be simple—revenge, nothing more. But she doesn’t break the way she should. She challenges him. Defies him. Looks at him like she sees something no one else ever has. And it’s enough to make him lose control.
___________
What starts as a game of power spirals into obsession neither of them can escape. Because the deeper they fall, the more the truth begins to unravel—twisting everything they thought they knew about their past… and each other. For one devastating moment, they believe their connection is forbidden. Unforgivable.
But in a world built on lies, even the truth can be manipulated. And when everything comes to light, one thing becomes
He didn’t take her for love...but he might destroy everything for it.
Emerald Deveraux refuses to be controlled—not by her family, not by the secrets they kept from her, and definitely not by the man who stole her. She should hate him. She tries to. But the more she fights Nikolai Voss, the more she sees the cracks beneath his cold, calculated exterior, and the more dangerous her curiosity becomes.
Because Emerald has always craved a love that consumes…and Nikolai might be the only man capable of giving it to her.
___________
Nikolai Voss doesn’t feel. He takes. He destroys. He finishes what he starts.
Taking Emerald was supposed to be simple—revenge, nothing more. But she doesn’t break the way she should. She challenges him. Defies him. Looks at him like she sees something no one else ever has. And it’s enough to make him lose control.
___________
What starts as a game of power spirals into obsession neither of them can escape. Because the deeper they fall, the more the truth begins to unravel—twisting everything they thought they knew about their past… and each other. For one devastating moment, they believe their connection is forbidden. Unforgivable.
But in a world built on lies, even the truth can be manipulated. And when everything comes to light, one thing becomes
He didn’t take her for love...but he might destroy everything for it.
425 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 9, 2026
About the author
J.R. Sawyer
9 books48 followersJ.R. Sawyer is an indie author from Minnesota who writes emotionally driven stories filled with tension, secrets, and complicated characters. Drawn to darker themes and layered relationships, their work explores the blurred lines between love, loyalty, obsession, and survival.
When not writing, they can usually be found reading, spending time with family, or working on the next story idea with an energy drink nearby. J.R. Sawyer is passionate about creating immersive worlds and unforgettable characters that stay with readers long after the final page.
When not writing, they can usually be found reading, spending time with family, or working on the next story idea with an energy drink nearby. J.R. Sawyer is passionate about creating immersive worlds and unforgettable characters that stay with readers long after the final page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 9, 2026
Roman's sister Emerald has been kidnapped, Mira is in a coma and Roman is losing all the control he has.
My admiration for this author grew with this book. The way everything is written, each sentence has its own importance, each word rightfully chosen. It makes you feel what the characters are feeling. Like the rage in Roman when he learns that his sister is missing, you can almost feel the chaos that he is about to unleash.
Emerald is amazing. She is fearless and funny and certainly not helpless. Her reaction at being kidnapped : " Not fear. Never fear. I was uncomfortable. And that? That was unacceptable... You couldn't even throw a shower? A light? A mirror so I can at least confirm how tragic this situation is?" She is making demands while being hostage and breaks down walls that people have around them.
And Nikolai. I love him. I didn't particularly care for him in the first book but I literally fell in love with him in this book as soon as his POV was written. I love how open he is with her and how he doesn't hold anything back and how he tolerates every stupid thing that she says and does.
I loved everything about this book. I couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I must admit that I was disappointed at first to learn that this book wasn't about Roman and Mira but the disappointment didn't last long once I got to know Emerald and Nikolai.
Can't wait for the rest. Thank you for the opportunity
My admiration for this author grew with this book. The way everything is written, each sentence has its own importance, each word rightfully chosen. It makes you feel what the characters are feeling. Like the rage in Roman when he learns that his sister is missing, you can almost feel the chaos that he is about to unleash.
Emerald is amazing. She is fearless and funny and certainly not helpless. Her reaction at being kidnapped : " Not fear. Never fear. I was uncomfortable. And that? That was unacceptable... You couldn't even throw a shower? A light? A mirror so I can at least confirm how tragic this situation is?" She is making demands while being hostage and breaks down walls that people have around them.
And Nikolai. I love him. I didn't particularly care for him in the first book but I literally fell in love with him in this book as soon as his POV was written. I love how open he is with her and how he doesn't hold anything back and how he tolerates every stupid thing that she says and does.
I loved everything about this book. I couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I must admit that I was disappointed at first to learn that this book wasn't about Roman and Mira but the disappointment didn't last long once I got to know Emerald and Nikolai.
Can't wait for the rest. Thank you for the opportunity
June 22, 2026
Rating: 4.5/5⭐️
✨
Review: This book had me completely hooked from the first page and refusing to put it down until the very end.
With Emerald kidnapped, Mira fighting for her life, and Roman on the verge of unleashing absolute chaos, the tension was nonstop. Every chapter raised the stakes, and I felt every ounce of fear, rage, and heartbreak right alongside these characters.
But let's talk about Emerald. She stole the entire book for me. She's fearless, hilarious, stubborn, and absolutely refuses to be a victim. Even in the darkest moments, her attitude and wit had me laughing and cheering for her.
And Nikolai? I am officially obsessed. I wasn't expecting to fall for him the way I did, but his loyalty, patience, and devotion completely won me over. The chemistry between him and Emerald was EVERYTHING. ❤️🔥
The writing is so immersive that I felt like I was living the story instead of reading it. The emotions hit hard, the romance delivered, and the suspense kept me turning pages way past my bedtime.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
If you love strong heroines, protective heroes, high-stakes drama, and romance that will make your heart race, add this one to your TBR immediately.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for J.R. to write another book! 😭📖
✨
Review: This book had me completely hooked from the first page and refusing to put it down until the very end.
With Emerald kidnapped, Mira fighting for her life, and Roman on the verge of unleashing absolute chaos, the tension was nonstop. Every chapter raised the stakes, and I felt every ounce of fear, rage, and heartbreak right alongside these characters.
But let's talk about Emerald. She stole the entire book for me. She's fearless, hilarious, stubborn, and absolutely refuses to be a victim. Even in the darkest moments, her attitude and wit had me laughing and cheering for her.
And Nikolai? I am officially obsessed. I wasn't expecting to fall for him the way I did, but his loyalty, patience, and devotion completely won me over. The chemistry between him and Emerald was EVERYTHING. ❤️🔥
The writing is so immersive that I felt like I was living the story instead of reading it. The emotions hit hard, the romance delivered, and the suspense kept me turning pages way past my bedtime.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
If you love strong heroines, protective heroes, high-stakes drama, and romance that will make your heart race, add this one to your TBR immediately.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for J.R. to write another book! 😭📖
June 17, 2026
UNBELIEVABLE! The Perfect Conclusion to an Addictive DuetJ.R. Sawyer completely blew me away with Owned by Revenge. This book is the ultimate definition of an unputdownable, dark mafia romance. It is the perfect conclusion to the Web of Lies Duet.🖤 The Chemistry & CharactersNikolai Voss is the ultimate dark antihero.He is cold, calculated, and driven by vengeance.Emerald Deveraux is an absolute powerhouse.She is fierce, sassy, and refuses to break.Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic is pure fire.The tension between them will keep you up all night.🌀oThe Plot & PacingThe storyline is packed with mind-bending secrets.The emotional depth perfectly balances the heavy angst.Shocking twists completely change the game.The pacing never slows down for a single chapter.✍️ Final VerdictIf you love dark romance with high spice, deep obsession, and flawless writing, add this duet to your TBR immediately. J.R. Sawyer is officially an auto-buy author for me!
June 27, 2026
Advanced readers copy given by author
I will be honest — after the absolute five star perfection that was book one, I came into book 2 with very high expectations and this one just did not quite get there for me.
This book took me FOREVER to get into and I mean forever. I am talking somewhere between the 50 and 75 percent mark before I was actually invested and genuinely interested in what was happening. That is a long time to wait to feel pulled in!!
Now don’t get me wrong — I actually really loved Emerald and her sharp tongue had me cackling more than once!! She was genuinely a great character and I appreciated her energy throughout!! But even with that something about the overall story just was not grabbing me the way book one did and I cannot fully put my finger on why!!
The ending was actually really cute though and I did enjoy it — it saved the book from being a lower rating for me and gave me just enough warmth to close things out on a positive note!!
I will be honest — after the absolute five star perfection that was book one, I came into book 2 with very high expectations and this one just did not quite get there for me.
This book took me FOREVER to get into and I mean forever. I am talking somewhere between the 50 and 75 percent mark before I was actually invested and genuinely interested in what was happening. That is a long time to wait to feel pulled in!!
Now don’t get me wrong — I actually really loved Emerald and her sharp tongue had me cackling more than once!! She was genuinely a great character and I appreciated her energy throughout!! But even with that something about the overall story just was not grabbing me the way book one did and I cannot fully put my finger on why!!
The ending was actually really cute though and I did enjoy it — it saved the book from being a lower rating for me and gave me just enough warmth to close things out on a positive note!!
June 3, 2026
Dark romance
Possessive MMC
Sarcastic FMC
Enemies to lovers
Arranged marriage
Read the triggers before reading.
Continues on from where we left off from that ending of Bound by Lies.
Now that Lucien is dead, Nikolai is now taking over.
He kidnaps Emerald for his revenge against Roman. Emerald is staying at the Voss estate but she is causing trouble. She is really sarcastic towards the guards and Nikolai.
Roman is in hysterics with Emerald missing and Mira is injured from the attack at the Deveraux estate.
Nikolai gets frustrated with Emerald but they soon start to have feelings for each other.
Malrik Drax worked with Lucien but he wants more. He has his sights on Emerald.
More truths come out and was not expecting that.
Edge of your seat makes you want to keep reading. I’m excited for more in this world.
Possessive MMC
Sarcastic FMC
Enemies to lovers
Arranged marriage
Read the triggers before reading.
Continues on from where we left off from that ending of Bound by Lies.
Now that Lucien is dead, Nikolai is now taking over.
He kidnaps Emerald for his revenge against Roman. Emerald is staying at the Voss estate but she is causing trouble. She is really sarcastic towards the guards and Nikolai.
Roman is in hysterics with Emerald missing and Mira is injured from the attack at the Deveraux estate.
Nikolai gets frustrated with Emerald but they soon start to have feelings for each other.
Malrik Drax worked with Lucien but he wants more. He has his sights on Emerald.
More truths come out and was not expecting that.
Edge of your seat makes you want to keep reading. I’m excited for more in this world.
June 13, 2026
Intense. Dark but hopeful. Heart-wrenching. ❤️ it!
Emerald reminds me of Belle in Beauty and the Beast, though Emerald has more depth. They both devour books, use sarcasm and sass to tame beasts, and are held hostage by men who desire change.
Emerald is sunshine where Nikolai is grumpy storm clouds. The banter between the two is awesome. Nikolai’s tolerance for Emerald’s criticism of EVERYTHING is endearing. The fact that they both know themselves deeply and see/understand/accept each other for who they are makes this a true love story.
Finally, the two related quotes that spoke to me explained the difference between revenge and love. (Paraphrased) Revenge makes men powerful but love makes men merciless and revenge consumes where love rebuilds. Love is NOT a weakness.
Emerald reminds me of Belle in Beauty and the Beast, though Emerald has more depth. They both devour books, use sarcasm and sass to tame beasts, and are held hostage by men who desire change.
Emerald is sunshine where Nikolai is grumpy storm clouds. The banter between the two is awesome. Nikolai’s tolerance for Emerald’s criticism of EVERYTHING is endearing. The fact that they both know themselves deeply and see/understand/accept each other for who they are makes this a true love story.
Finally, the two related quotes that spoke to me explained the difference between revenge and love. (Paraphrased) Revenge makes men powerful but love makes men merciless and revenge consumes where love rebuilds. Love is NOT a weakness.
June 11, 2026
Omg once i realized this book was about Nikolai and Emerald I was so excited. I rate this book a 4 ⭐️ and 1🌶️.
I love the grumpy sunshine trope on this book. Nikolai is such a tortured soul Emerald balanced him out perfectly. This story makes you completely fall in love with the couple and their relationship with each other. This book was such a page turner with the constant secrets and betrayal between the families. I absolutely loved the Emerald did not back down to Nikolai and his ways it made the banter super funny. All of the side characters were super funny and I loved that we got Romans POV in the beginning. This duet ended perfectly!!
I love the grumpy sunshine trope on this book. Nikolai is such a tortured soul Emerald balanced him out perfectly. This story makes you completely fall in love with the couple and their relationship with each other. This book was such a page turner with the constant secrets and betrayal between the families. I absolutely loved the Emerald did not back down to Nikolai and his ways it made the banter super funny. All of the side characters were super funny and I loved that we got Romans POV in the beginning. This duet ended perfectly!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
****ARC READER REVIEW****
What surprised me most was how personal it felt, the way the characters’ vulnerabilities slip through the cracks, the way control and surrender blur until you’re not sure who’s really holding the power anymore. There were moments that made my heart race and others that made me stop and breathe because the emotions hit a little too close. By the end, I wasn’t just invested, I was claimed right along with the characters. I highly recommend this book and hope everyone picks it up to read!!
What surprised me most was how personal it felt, the way the characters’ vulnerabilities slip through the cracks, the way control and surrender blur until you’re not sure who’s really holding the power anymore. There were moments that made my heart race and others that made me stop and breathe because the emotions hit a little too close. By the end, I wasn’t just invested, I was claimed right along with the characters. I highly recommend this book and hope everyone picks it up to read!!
June 8, 2026
Wow. What a perfect ending to this duet. I thought I loved the characters from book 1 but then I read this one and I now love these MC’s even better. Emerald I’ve loved from the first book so I was glad when she got her own and she did not disappoint. I loved how the story continued and the little twists thrown in there. This book didn’t really have any spicy scenes but that was okay with me cause the ones it did have fit perfectly. I can’t wait till the spinoffs come out as I still have some questions I want answered. Great book!
June 16, 2026
This was perfection!!! I loved the first book but this was somehow even better. Emerald was always my favorite character and I knew I’d come to love Nikolai as well.
This was the perfect suspenseful second book of a duet. The tension and yearning, the banter, the character growth, the unexpected twists… I couldn’t have asked for more! I can’t wait to continue reading the next series in this world!
This was the perfect suspenseful second book of a duet. The tension and yearning, the banter, the character growth, the unexpected twists… I couldn’t have asked for more! I can’t wait to continue reading the next series in this world!
June 24, 2026
I enjoyed this book!!! The banter had me cracking up! Emerald is stubborn and hard-headed; however, it really suits her character. I’m not going to lie, there were some points where I was just like “girl shut up” but Nikolai, despite his ruthlessness, was so patient with her! Overall, great read and I would recommend.
I received this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions regarding this book are my own.
I received this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions regarding this book are my own.
Read
June 25, 2026Absolutely loved this book! Emerald and Romans story was absolutely amazing! The ups and down emotionally had me in a rope hold! Roman kidnapped Emerald and her brother tore his way throughout Romans empire! Emerald full head over heels for Roman. Roman tried to fight it but hopelessly lost the battle. A surprise appearance is made and Emerald got kidnapped once again, forced into a marriage. But the question is who is really the heir of the empire? This book will have you on your toes and begging for more!
July 3, 2026
4.5⭐️
2🌶
I am still reeling. I couldn't put this down, it had me in an absolute chokehold. After the first book I had less than stellar feelings toward Nikolai and this book gave him such a good redemption arc. Emerald and Nikolai have such good chemistry and while the relationship is entirely unconventional it makes so much sense and they fit together so well. There were so many little twists that I absolutely didn't see coming. It ended so nicely but I still just want more.
2🌶
I am still reeling. I couldn't put this down, it had me in an absolute chokehold. After the first book I had less than stellar feelings toward Nikolai and this book gave him such a good redemption arc. Emerald and Nikolai have such good chemistry and while the relationship is entirely unconventional it makes so much sense and they fit together so well. There were so many little twists that I absolutely didn't see coming. It ended so nicely but I still just want more.
June 7, 2026
Amazing! Loved it. This isn’t like any other Mafia book you have read. I haven’t seen a plot like this one and I absolutely loved it. Also Emerald, totally loved her she is sassy, fiesty, funny and absolutely adorable. May just be my new fav author running to look up more titles. You will love it and like I said I have never seen a mafia plot like this one:
June 11, 2026
This is the second book of Bound By Lies. This leads off where Emerald gets kidnapped by Nikoli. Emerald just turned 18 when she was kidnapped. She is sarcastic and witty and takes crap from no one. There were moments when you caught Emerald's immaturity. But turns of events make her grow up a little. A enemy to lovers trope. There is another twist to her kidnapping and a secret revealed.
June 10, 2026
Great ending to this duet! I really enjoyed reading this, maybe even better than book one! Also, I loved the art at the end of the book. 🥺❤️ I look forward to reading the future books set in this world.
June 22, 2026
From the very beginning I knew this was going to be good. And it certainly did not disappoint. Em was a spitfire, and I loved every minute of here. Her Nikolai were great. Their moments, their banter, I couldn’t get enough. I was so immersed in this story, devoured it in one sitting.
June 22, 2026
Another great read
I enjoyed this read! It was a continuation of book one, but not exactly. I like that this book shifted focus to Emerald, yet still covered things from book one. And as always, Mafia romances always get me.
I enjoyed this read! It was a continuation of book one, but not exactly. I like that this book shifted focus to Emerald, yet still covered things from book one. And as always, Mafia romances always get me.
June 24, 2026
Wow… this ending definitely left me wanting more… the story was well done and I enjoyed the character development, and change of perspectives, however, I felt like there was still some closure needed on a few scenes… can’t wait for The Origins Series!!
June 27, 2026
I thought this was an amazing read that had me on the edge of my seat while turning the pages it has obsession, drama, and romance that’ll get your heart pumping.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2026
Funny tantalising dark spicy mafia romance, such a good blood, touch her and you die, cinnamon roll mafia man, epic
June 16, 2026
And the secrets keep on coming. A lot of twists and turns you never see coming. Kept me interested to the very last page. Can't wait to see what happens next.
June 28, 2026
This is a great story about undeniable forbidden attraction, and a connection that can’t be broken. Nikolai and Emerald’s relationship is very spicy amd their story is so good.
October 2, 2026
received as an ARC from the author.
This book brought me from my slump. It was fast paced and kept me wanting more! Thank you for letting me be one off the first to read!
This book brought me from my slump. It was fast paced and kept me wanting more! Thank you for letting me be one off the first to read!
June 18, 2026
OMG...
That was crazy!!!
Ok guys... the secrets and betrayals and revelations are astounding.
I have so many questions!!!
I love Emerald with such a passion, I can't even describe. She's everything and more!
That was crazy!!!
Ok guys... the secrets and betrayals and revelations are astounding.
I have so many questions!!!
I love Emerald with such a passion, I can't even describe. She's everything and more!
June 30, 2026
This second book in the series follows the story of Emerald and Nikolai.
I have to admit I was a bit disappointed not to really see Mira and Roman until nearly two-thirds of the way through the book. I really liked those two characters and had hoped to see more of their development.
I have mixed feelings about Emerald’s character. I love her sarcasm and attitude, but at times she came across more like a brat or simply immature and reckless. As for Nikolai, we finally see a more sensitive side to him, he isn't the villain the first book led us to believe (well.. not all the way).
I must say I found this book less entertaining than the first for a good portion of the story. For me, the action really kicks in and things get interesting once Malrik plays a major role. That said, I still enjoy the author's writing style and the sarcasm and humor she gives the characters. There are some good plot twists.
I was very happy to read that, even though this series is ending, their world will continue to evolve in a new series and we will see them again. It was a good read that made me want to check out the author's other books.
I have to admit I was a bit disappointed not to really see Mira and Roman until nearly two-thirds of the way through the book. I really liked those two characters and had hoped to see more of their development.
I have mixed feelings about Emerald’s character. I love her sarcasm and attitude, but at times she came across more like a brat or simply immature and reckless. As for Nikolai, we finally see a more sensitive side to him, he isn't the villain the first book led us to believe (well.. not all the way).
I must say I found this book less entertaining than the first for a good portion of the story. For me, the action really kicks in and things get interesting once Malrik plays a major role. That said, I still enjoy the author's writing style and the sarcasm and humor she gives the characters. There are some good plot twists.
I was very happy to read that, even though this series is ending, their world will continue to evolve in a new series and we will see them again. It was a good read that made me want to check out the author's other books.
June 17, 2026
What an absolutely perfect conclusion to this duet. I thought I was already attached to these characters after the first book, but this installment made me fall even harder for them. What started as curiosity quickly turned into complete obsession, and by the final page, I wasn't ready to let them go.
I was thrilled that Emerald finally got her own story because she completely stole my heart in the first book. And she exceeded every expectation I had. She's witty, fearless, unapologetically herself, and impossible not to love. In many ways, she reminds me of Belle from *Beauty and the Beast*—both are book lovers who use intelligence, sarcasm, and sass to tame men considered monsters. But Emerald feels even more layered and complex. Even while being held captive, she's more annoyed than frightened, delivering hilarious demands and observations that had me laughing out loud. She refuses to be a victim, and her strength shines through every page.
The dynamic between Emerald and Nikolai was everything. She is pure sunshine, chaos, and sharp wit, while Nikolai is all grumpy storm clouds and controlled intensity. Their banter is phenomenal—effortless, funny, and full of chemistry. I adored watching Emerald challenge him at every turn and seeing Nikolai not only tolerate her constant criticism of absolutely everything but secretly enjoy it. What makes their relationship so beautiful isn't just the attraction between them; it's the way they truly see each other. They understand one another's flaws, scars, and strengths, and they accept them completely. That's what made this feel like a genuine love story rather than just another romance.
And Nikolai? I wasn't particularly invested in him during the first book, but that changed almost immediately once I got inside his head. His POV completely transformed my opinion of him. Beneath the intimidating exterior is a man who feels deeply, loves fiercely, and never hides who he is. The way he opens himself to Emerald and allows her to break through his walls was incredibly moving.
One of the things I admire most about this author is the writing itself. Every sentence feels purposeful, every word carefully chosen to maximize emotional impact. You don't just read what the characters are experiencing—you feel it. Roman's rage when he learns Emerald has been kidnapped is so vividly written that you can practically feel the destruction and chaos building around him. The emotions leap off the page and pull you directly into the story.
The themes of love and revenge were especially powerful. One of the most memorable ideas woven throughout the book is the contrast between the two: revenge may make a man powerful, but love makes him merciless. Revenge consumes and destroys, while love rebuilds. This story beautifully proves that love is not weakness—it's often the greatest strength of all.
While this book isn't packed with spice, every intimate scene serves a purpose and fits naturally within the story. Nothing feels forced or unnecessary. The emotional connection between the characters carries the romance just as effectively as any steamy scene could.
I couldn't put this book down once I started. Initially, I was disappointed to discover the story wasn't focused on Roman and Mira, but that feeling disappeared almost instantly as Emerald and Nikolai took center stage. Their journey captivated me from beginning to end, and by the finale, I was completely invested in their happiness.
This was an unforgettable ending filled with humor, heart, tension, growth, and a romance that felt earned in every sense of the word. Emerald and Nikolai have become two of my favorite characters, and now I'm counting down the days until the spin-offs release because I still have questions that need answers. If they're anywhere near as good as this duet, I know I'm in for something special.
I was thrilled that Emerald finally got her own story because she completely stole my heart in the first book. And she exceeded every expectation I had. She's witty, fearless, unapologetically herself, and impossible not to love. In many ways, she reminds me of Belle from *Beauty and the Beast*—both are book lovers who use intelligence, sarcasm, and sass to tame men considered monsters. But Emerald feels even more layered and complex. Even while being held captive, she's more annoyed than frightened, delivering hilarious demands and observations that had me laughing out loud. She refuses to be a victim, and her strength shines through every page.
The dynamic between Emerald and Nikolai was everything. She is pure sunshine, chaos, and sharp wit, while Nikolai is all grumpy storm clouds and controlled intensity. Their banter is phenomenal—effortless, funny, and full of chemistry. I adored watching Emerald challenge him at every turn and seeing Nikolai not only tolerate her constant criticism of absolutely everything but secretly enjoy it. What makes their relationship so beautiful isn't just the attraction between them; it's the way they truly see each other. They understand one another's flaws, scars, and strengths, and they accept them completely. That's what made this feel like a genuine love story rather than just another romance.
And Nikolai? I wasn't particularly invested in him during the first book, but that changed almost immediately once I got inside his head. His POV completely transformed my opinion of him. Beneath the intimidating exterior is a man who feels deeply, loves fiercely, and never hides who he is. The way he opens himself to Emerald and allows her to break through his walls was incredibly moving.
One of the things I admire most about this author is the writing itself. Every sentence feels purposeful, every word carefully chosen to maximize emotional impact. You don't just read what the characters are experiencing—you feel it. Roman's rage when he learns Emerald has been kidnapped is so vividly written that you can practically feel the destruction and chaos building around him. The emotions leap off the page and pull you directly into the story.
The themes of love and revenge were especially powerful. One of the most memorable ideas woven throughout the book is the contrast between the two: revenge may make a man powerful, but love makes him merciless. Revenge consumes and destroys, while love rebuilds. This story beautifully proves that love is not weakness—it's often the greatest strength of all.
While this book isn't packed with spice, every intimate scene serves a purpose and fits naturally within the story. Nothing feels forced or unnecessary. The emotional connection between the characters carries the romance just as effectively as any steamy scene could.
I couldn't put this book down once I started. Initially, I was disappointed to discover the story wasn't focused on Roman and Mira, but that feeling disappeared almost instantly as Emerald and Nikolai took center stage. Their journey captivated me from beginning to end, and by the finale, I was completely invested in their happiness.
This was an unforgettable ending filled with humor, heart, tension, growth, and a romance that felt earned in every sense of the word. Emerald and Nikolai have become two of my favorite characters, and now I'm counting down the days until the spin-offs release because I still have questions that need answers. If they're anywhere near as good as this duet, I know I'm in for something special.
July 21, 2026
I burned through the first book so quickly and was hooked instantly! I was hopeful for the same in this book, but unfortunately, it didnt land the same way for me. At first, if felt like the characters were extremely similar to the first book, written in a very similar way, so I struggled with that initially.
The action doesn't really pick up until over 50% mark in the book, causing it to feel like a bit of a slog for me. I did find myself smiling and giggling over the MFC though, she was sassy and sarcastic and very funny. The MMC also was a totally win in this book compared to the first book.
***Spoiler alert**
I was super bothered by the lack of mentioning the possibly blood relation of the 2 MCs... like... even if Emerlad wasn't Luciens daughter, she would still have been Nikolai's cousin??!! How come they didn't talk about this?? This bothered me so much i almost opted to DNF. I realized Nikolai may not have been blood, once you know Mira was taken as a child it was a safe assumption to assume the same with Nikolai.. but STILL!! They would have know they could have been cousins and probably should have not had unprotected sex (he also finishes inside her as a virgin and doesn't ask about birth control?!) sooo all that bothered me personally.
The action doesn't really pick up until over 50% mark in the book, causing it to feel like a bit of a slog for me. I did find myself smiling and giggling over the MFC though, she was sassy and sarcastic and very funny. The MMC also was a totally win in this book compared to the first book.
***Spoiler alert**
I was super bothered by the lack of mentioning the possibly blood relation of the 2 MCs... like... even if Emerlad wasn't Luciens daughter, she would still have been Nikolai's cousin??!! How come they didn't talk about this?? This bothered me so much i almost opted to DNF. I realized Nikolai may not have been blood, once you know Mira was taken as a child it was a safe assumption to assume the same with Nikolai.. but STILL!! They would have know they could have been cousins and probably should have not had unprotected sex (he also finishes inside her as a virgin and doesn't ask about birth control?!) sooo all that bothered me personally.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Reader
This is book two of A Web of Lies Duet. This book focuses on Nikolai and Emerald.
What a trip. There was plenty of twists and turns in this book.
I loved both characters before , but this book gives them even more dimensions with it being their story.
Very much gives Rina Kent vibes.
I feel like this book is more quotable then book one was. Don't get me wrong I loved Roman and Mira's story. Though something about Emerald being a sarcastic, sassy, and bratty combined with Nikolai being well Nikolai made for some wonderful quotes.
I was afraid to honestly highlight them when reading, just in case it somehow posted it before the release. Though very quotable especially when it comes to Emerald.
I can't wait for more in this universe. The duet might be over, but the Origins are coming and I'm all there for it.
This is book two of A Web of Lies Duet. This book focuses on Nikolai and Emerald.
What a trip. There was plenty of twists and turns in this book.
I loved both characters before , but this book gives them even more dimensions with it being their story.
Very much gives Rina Kent vibes.
I feel like this book is more quotable then book one was. Don't get me wrong I loved Roman and Mira's story. Though something about Emerald being a sarcastic, sassy, and bratty combined with Nikolai being well Nikolai made for some wonderful quotes.
I was afraid to honestly highlight them when reading, just in case it somehow posted it before the release. Though very quotable especially when it comes to Emerald.
I can't wait for more in this universe. The duet might be over, but the Origins are coming and I'm all there for it.
June 24, 2026
Owned by Revenge was exactly the kind of dark, addictive read I was hoping for. The pacing was spot on — long enough to feel fully immersed in the story, but tight enough that there wasn’t a single wasted moment. I flew through it.
The characters were incredibly well developed, with just the right balance of grit, vulnerability and intensity. Their chemistry felt earned, not forced, and the emotional tension threaded beautifully through the darker themes. And speaking of dark — the tone hit that perfect sweet spot: shadowy, twisted, and deliciously intense without ever tipping into gratuitous territory. The spice was bold, well written, and matched the emotional stakes of the story.
I loved every minute of it and genuinely can’t wait to dive deeper into this series. J.R. Sawyer has absolutely hooked me.
The characters were incredibly well developed, with just the right balance of grit, vulnerability and intensity. Their chemistry felt earned, not forced, and the emotional tension threaded beautifully through the darker themes. And speaking of dark — the tone hit that perfect sweet spot: shadowy, twisted, and deliciously intense without ever tipping into gratuitous territory. The spice was bold, well written, and matched the emotional stakes of the story.
I loved every minute of it and genuinely can’t wait to dive deeper into this series. J.R. Sawyer has absolutely hooked me.
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