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The Blackness #5
Blackness Within
Fighting to find his worthy place in life…
This is the story of a woman that has worked tirelessly to build her own life from nothing. While the task has been exhaustive, it’s been worth every drop of sweat to earn her own slice of normal. Natasha Reynolds has built a life beyond an absent mother and a drug addict brother to become a home-owning, dog-loving nurse. But no matter how much distance she puts between the present and her past, she always finds herself dealing with the messes of those she loves. Once again, a hasty decision to save her beloved brother’s life has put Natasha in peril. With nowhere to turn, she goes to the only place she has left.
Brian O’Sullivan.
He’s an attorney, a ladies’ man and nothing but trouble. Natasha has spent two and a half years avoiding Brian’s smoldering grin and his smooth pickup lines. While he spends his days in courtrooms and suits, Brian would much rather be bloodying his knuckles and relishing in the crushing of bones. In order to help Natasha, he will have to be both the professional and the fighter. As Brian demolishes opponents, Natasha will struggle to hang onto her life. They will be ripped apart by the evil underbelly of the crime world and wage a war to escape the blackness within it that threatens to swallow them whole.
This is the story of a woman that has worked tirelessly to build her own life from nothing. While the task has been exhaustive, it’s been worth every drop of sweat to earn her own slice of normal. Natasha Reynolds has built a life beyond an absent mother and a drug addict brother to become a home-owning, dog-loving nurse. But no matter how much distance she puts between the present and her past, she always finds herself dealing with the messes of those she loves. Once again, a hasty decision to save her beloved brother’s life has put Natasha in peril. With nowhere to turn, she goes to the only place she has left.
Brian O’Sullivan.
He’s an attorney, a ladies’ man and nothing but trouble. Natasha has spent two and a half years avoiding Brian’s smoldering grin and his smooth pickup lines. While he spends his days in courtrooms and suits, Brian would much rather be bloodying his knuckles and relishing in the crushing of bones. In order to help Natasha, he will have to be both the professional and the fighter. As Brian demolishes opponents, Natasha will struggle to hang onto her life. They will be ripped apart by the evil underbelly of the crime world and wage a war to escape the blackness within it that threatens to swallow them whole.
535 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2014
7 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Norma Jeanne Karlsson
10 books373 followersOriginally from Kansas City, Missouri, Norma Jeanne recently found herself relocating to the United Kingdom. Now living in Belfast, she took hold of the opportunity to kick the 9-5 job for a chance to become an author. The best part: working from her home office, she gets to spend more time with her cast of crazy characters (written and real).
In her free time Norma Jeanne is a voracious reader and consumes books as readily as meals. She is a people watcher by nature and uses her experiences in life, observed or otherwise, to build the worlds and characters that thrive in her books. A believer in the strength of the human spirit, Norma Jeanne writes the stories of people that persevere when all appears to be lost.
In her free time Norma Jeanne is a voracious reader and consumes books as readily as meals. She is a people watcher by nature and uses her experiences in life, observed or otherwise, to build the worlds and characters that thrive in her books. A believer in the strength of the human spirit, Norma Jeanne writes the stories of people that persevere when all appears to be lost.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 8, 2014
I have to go read the rest of the books that I bought so I'll do a full review later, I loved it!!
October 5, 2014
I was graciously gifted a copy for a review.
This series is a MUST READ. Keeps getting better with each one.
Natasha has always puts others before herself. Growing up thru hell, she's grown into the woman she is today.
She welcomes babies into the world and worked hard to get where she's at.
Having Blake as her only family, she'd give her life for his.
However Blake's been causing mayhem, digging his own grave.
Sully is tender, sweet and loves with his whole heart.
A lawyer by day and a sexy, street fighting barenuckles with no interference man by night.Major swoon worthy!!!!
He's always been taken with Natasha but she could care less.
When Blake puts Natasha out in a really big way, Sully is their for her to lean on.
In more ways than one.
Her life's put on the line after being kidnapped. Thrown into slavery, Natasha needs to do whater she can to stay alive.
Days, months, years....... How long until she's found? If alive??
Sully and his gang are determined to find her even if it means his life for hers.
This was extremely emotional for me to read, so read at your own risk.
But it's still a MUST READ:)!!
This series is a MUST READ. Keeps getting better with each one.
Natasha has always puts others before herself. Growing up thru hell, she's grown into the woman she is today.
She welcomes babies into the world and worked hard to get where she's at.
Having Blake as her only family, she'd give her life for his.
However Blake's been causing mayhem, digging his own grave.
Sully is tender, sweet and loves with his whole heart.
A lawyer by day and a sexy, street fighting barenuckles with no interference man by night.Major swoon worthy!!!!
He's always been taken with Natasha but she could care less.
When Blake puts Natasha out in a really big way, Sully is their for her to lean on.
In more ways than one.
Her life's put on the line after being kidnapped. Thrown into slavery, Natasha needs to do whater she can to stay alive.
Days, months, years....... How long until she's found? If alive??
Sully and his gang are determined to find her even if it means his life for hers.
This was extremely emotional for me to read, so read at your own risk.
But it's still a MUST READ:)!!
November 13, 2017
Bit disappointed
So, through the first 70% of this book I was so utterly disappointed. The heroines in this series are usually really strong, Badass Independent women. I get that Nat is that AS Well to a point - but to me sige just reminded me of the typical heroine in every other romance Novel.
And Can I just say - HATE the f****** Stockholm Syndrome. That s*** just don't fly Well with me.
The Reason Why this gets 3 Stars instead of 2 is because of all the other characters, 'cause this was by far the weakest book in the series.
Also, I find it a bit wack that the heroine spends the majority of the book with another man - this just results in a weak connection between Sully and Nat.
So, through the first 70% of this book I was so utterly disappointed. The heroines in this series are usually really strong, Badass Independent women. I get that Nat is that AS Well to a point - but to me sige just reminded me of the typical heroine in every other romance Novel.
And Can I just say - HATE the f****** Stockholm Syndrome. That s*** just don't fly Well with me.
The Reason Why this gets 3 Stars instead of 2 is because of all the other characters, 'cause this was by far the weakest book in the series.
Also, I find it a bit wack that the heroine spends the majority of the book with another man - this just results in a weak connection between Sully and Nat.
September 29, 2014
WOW! This series has everything a story should have. I laughed, I cried, I loved with every one of the characters in this series. Emotions will have a roller coaster ride. Shannon, (Kid), has what every girl dreams of, family that love her, protect her, hold her, sleep with her, support her, give her everything she needs with out asking. This unconventional family will draw you right into their lives. There's suspense, mystery, love, grief and a lot of laughs. Love comes knocking at the door, along with danger and betrayal. This author nailed it! I give this a 5+ star rating. I loved this series.
October 3, 2014
Um... this book was alright I didn't read the other books in the series so I'm not sure if each book is a standalone or not. To me it seemed like there was a love triangle going on and I seriously hate those, there's Sully, "I noticed you were admiring my hardwood." I start to compliment his floors when I get his joke." Then there's Roman, "would you like Doctor Hassan to administer another? I would like to have a baby with you. The idea of you carrying my child...I like the image of your body growing with my son in your belly." With me thinking there's a love triangle going on I didn't really enjoy the book.
October 6, 2014
Another awesome must read from the riveting "Blackness Series" as were the first 4 books :) ... Contemporary romantic suspense fiction at it's best!! ... Prepare to become addicted like I am :) ... This amazing author creates the best characters you will love & others you'll love to hate ;) ... There are hot sexy scenes, tons of action and plenty of twists & turns that will keep you guessing, enthralled & turning pages!!!
November 19, 2014
Not exactly what I expected for this book. It went down a whole other path after such a promising start.
October 6, 2014
Since reading Into the Blackness and Blackness Awaits, the first two books in The Blackness series, I was addicted to the characters and the storyline. I couldn’t read the pages fast enough and hated to put my Kindle down. The characters stayed on my mind for days, and I couldn’t help but think about the story. I loved books 3 and 4 also, but now with Blackness Within, I get to know more about Brian O’Sullivan’s story. He has fascinated me from the beginning and I was happy to see if his man-whoring ways would change when he meets Natasha.
The series includes a large, extended family that include the O’Sullivan’s, Callaghans, Kavanagh’s, along with Shannon & Kel from the first books, and Nick and Kat Cooper, etc. Each book adds more and more people to these families, which for the most part are made up of longtime friends and their children, but more importantly, family of the heart. There are grandparents, parents, children, grandchildren, uncles, nieces, and nephews, with the majority not blood or marriage related. Sometimes these families of the heart are the best ones!
I loved seeing Shannon and Kel again, with their 3 boys, Nick and Kat with their 3 adopted boys who are finishing high school, along with their daughter, and Kieran and Quinn, with their 4 children. The love just continues to expand and men who are strong, hard, focused on work, and not interested in relationships, eventually becoming devoted family men. And the changes in the men are so sexy, showing how much they love their women and the children – whether adopted or biological.
The suspense builds slowly vs just jumping right into a host of problems. There are kidnappings, fights, miscommunication, car crashes, and so many entertaining events.
This story focuses on Natasha who, along with her brother Blake, lived through a difficult childhood. Blake protected his sister but, unfortunately, he has turned to drugs and Natasha feels that all she does is worry about him. Natasha has worked to put herself through nursing school and enjoys her job in a hospital in the OB ward. She meets Shannon and the entire family when Shannon gives birth to twin boys. Brian/Sully is instantly attracted to her but she refuses to go out with him. When a terrifying event happens, she contacts Brian for help.
There are a lot of twists and turns in this book, and about the time you think things are going to quiet down, something else happens. But the more I read, the more I wanted to see Brian and Natasha together, and the more things kept them apart.
I loved Brian and found myself highlighting so many sections. I had forgotten the special talent he used while working through law school and he gives Natasha a glimpse. The main characters, who are in their late 20s – mid 30s, are so funny with their banter and smart @ss comments. As usual, there are so many parts that are laugh-out-loud funny, especially between Brian/Sully, Cally, and Kavy (Shannon’s nicknames for the ‘boys’.) They are almost like teenage boys at times and just cracked me up! They call ‘dibs’ on a woman, make funny comments about their ‘junk’, laughing at each other, and yet always there when needed.
The guys all take part in caring for Shannon’s/Kid’s three boys, but also Nick and Kat’s daughter. As the first girls are born, they all mutter, “We’re all going to prison”, since they are very protective of their family, but especially any female. The men walk through the house picking up babies to feed, cuddle, play with, change, so matter-of-factly, as if there isn’t anything unusual with their actions. Before the men find ‘The One’ for them, they definitely aren’t interested in children of their own, and yet they love babies. It’s just so sweet to read about!
It’s hilarious to read about Shannon/Kid and Kat during their pregnancies, with the ‘Hobbit feet’, ‘cocktail weenie toes’, and the house so cold that the guys are wearing sweat pants and hoodies. I remember some of the same issues during my pregnancies!
And Zeus, Natasha’s dog – wow, he almost steals the spotlight! He is trained so well, protects Natasha, and ends up as a tracker at one point.
I got very teary towards the end when Natasha receives a letter, explaining some things to her, which resulted in me rethinking parts of the story. It made me wonder ‘what if…’ and ‘if only…’ about some situations.
As the story progresses you understand why the phrase, ‘blackness within’ is used. Even with the HEA, there are parts that are sad for more than one person/couple.
I enjoyed the varying POVs and it was very clear at the beginning of each chapter who was thinking or talking. The writing and character development are exceptional and you can’t help but be drawn into the story. I LOVE this series and look forward to reading about more of the characters – especially Kavy!
The series includes a large, extended family that include the O’Sullivan’s, Callaghans, Kavanagh’s, along with Shannon & Kel from the first books, and Nick and Kat Cooper, etc. Each book adds more and more people to these families, which for the most part are made up of longtime friends and their children, but more importantly, family of the heart. There are grandparents, parents, children, grandchildren, uncles, nieces, and nephews, with the majority not blood or marriage related. Sometimes these families of the heart are the best ones!
I loved seeing Shannon and Kel again, with their 3 boys, Nick and Kat with their 3 adopted boys who are finishing high school, along with their daughter, and Kieran and Quinn, with their 4 children. The love just continues to expand and men who are strong, hard, focused on work, and not interested in relationships, eventually becoming devoted family men. And the changes in the men are so sexy, showing how much they love their women and the children – whether adopted or biological.
The suspense builds slowly vs just jumping right into a host of problems. There are kidnappings, fights, miscommunication, car crashes, and so many entertaining events.
This story focuses on Natasha who, along with her brother Blake, lived through a difficult childhood. Blake protected his sister but, unfortunately, he has turned to drugs and Natasha feels that all she does is worry about him. Natasha has worked to put herself through nursing school and enjoys her job in a hospital in the OB ward. She meets Shannon and the entire family when Shannon gives birth to twin boys. Brian/Sully is instantly attracted to her but she refuses to go out with him. When a terrifying event happens, she contacts Brian for help.
There are a lot of twists and turns in this book, and about the time you think things are going to quiet down, something else happens. But the more I read, the more I wanted to see Brian and Natasha together, and the more things kept them apart.
I loved Brian and found myself highlighting so many sections. I had forgotten the special talent he used while working through law school and he gives Natasha a glimpse. The main characters, who are in their late 20s – mid 30s, are so funny with their banter and smart @ss comments. As usual, there are so many parts that are laugh-out-loud funny, especially between Brian/Sully, Cally, and Kavy (Shannon’s nicknames for the ‘boys’.) They are almost like teenage boys at times and just cracked me up! They call ‘dibs’ on a woman, make funny comments about their ‘junk’, laughing at each other, and yet always there when needed.
The guys all take part in caring for Shannon’s/Kid’s three boys, but also Nick and Kat’s daughter. As the first girls are born, they all mutter, “We’re all going to prison”, since they are very protective of their family, but especially any female. The men walk through the house picking up babies to feed, cuddle, play with, change, so matter-of-factly, as if there isn’t anything unusual with their actions. Before the men find ‘The One’ for them, they definitely aren’t interested in children of their own, and yet they love babies. It’s just so sweet to read about!
It’s hilarious to read about Shannon/Kid and Kat during their pregnancies, with the ‘Hobbit feet’, ‘cocktail weenie toes’, and the house so cold that the guys are wearing sweat pants and hoodies. I remember some of the same issues during my pregnancies!
And Zeus, Natasha’s dog – wow, he almost steals the spotlight! He is trained so well, protects Natasha, and ends up as a tracker at one point.
I got very teary towards the end when Natasha receives a letter, explaining some things to her, which resulted in me rethinking parts of the story. It made me wonder ‘what if…’ and ‘if only…’ about some situations.
As the story progresses you understand why the phrase, ‘blackness within’ is used. Even with the HEA, there are parts that are sad for more than one person/couple.
I enjoyed the varying POVs and it was very clear at the beginning of each chapter who was thinking or talking. The writing and character development are exceptional and you can’t help but be drawn into the story. I LOVE this series and look forward to reading about more of the characters – especially Kavy!
October 10, 2014
Brian O'Sullivan is by day a lawyer and at when not working anything but the perfect guy. He loves to fight, loves to be with many women and is not looking for anything long term. He has never had a woman he wanted to keep. When he meets Natasha he wants her but she turns him down. For years he has spent trying to get close to her. She keeps him intrigued like no other has. When her dope addicted brother lands her in a mess she turns for help and he is there to help her. Natasha has tried to stay out of the mess her brothers life is but she is always there to help him. She is a nurse and loves helping people. She lives alone wit a dog as her only companion. Now her life is in danger because of her brother and Brian may be the only hope she has. She wants him but is afraid to get close to him. A sacrifice has to be made and it may cost her and Brian their happiness. Brian will have to fight to save her and let the darkness he has within his self out.
Natasha is a very caring, sweet woman who really has been used all her life by her family. She never seems to be able to say no when they need something. She does have a backbone of steel when it comes to others and tries her best to stay away from guys who fit a certain mold. She really has to dig deep down and do things she never wanted to do to help her brother. She is very sexy and can be stubborn which makes her a great character. Brian O'Sullivan aka Sully. First of all reading this series I have always liked Sully. He is very sexy, tough and you just know one night with him wouldn't be enough. He is loyal to his family and friends and will let no one hurt them. He is the type of guy you want on your side. He has faults so he is not perfect and that in many ways makes him a greater character. He says things without thinking, he can hurt people without realizing he is doing so and he is afraid to let one woman have his heart. He pushes away at times when he should be letting Natasha closer. As usual if you have read the series the others you have come to know are all here and I love them more each time I read about them.
I really don't know how the authors does it but she makes these characters seem like real people. You feel as if they are your family as well reading about them and you just want to be a part of their family. The women are tough and will do anything to protect their families. If you like strong females you will love this series. Natasha at first I wasn't sure how she would fit in with Sully. She doesn't seem like the type that can hang with all that goes on in his life but she really surprised me in how awesome she truly is. She has to face giving herself up to save her brother and she does her best to hang on and do what it takes. I hate what she has to go through. Sully when he sets is mind on something doesn't give up. He does whatever it takes to try and get her back. As usual never think you see something coming in these books as the author will surprise you. This one has twist and turns I did not see coming. There is tons of danger in this book as there is truly some twisted humans in it. I do like a few of the surprises I got in this one and while I love Kid I have to say her little sister surprised me a bunch in this one. I know it's a ways off but I can't wait for her story. These peoples lives are far from perfect and they have an odd family of sorts but you will love them. If you haven't read this series yet I recommend you hurry and do so. It has love, passion, danger, twist and turns and so much more.
Natasha is a very caring, sweet woman who really has been used all her life by her family. She never seems to be able to say no when they need something. She does have a backbone of steel when it comes to others and tries her best to stay away from guys who fit a certain mold. She really has to dig deep down and do things she never wanted to do to help her brother. She is very sexy and can be stubborn which makes her a great character. Brian O'Sullivan aka Sully. First of all reading this series I have always liked Sully. He is very sexy, tough and you just know one night with him wouldn't be enough. He is loyal to his family and friends and will let no one hurt them. He is the type of guy you want on your side. He has faults so he is not perfect and that in many ways makes him a greater character. He says things without thinking, he can hurt people without realizing he is doing so and he is afraid to let one woman have his heart. He pushes away at times when he should be letting Natasha closer. As usual if you have read the series the others you have come to know are all here and I love them more each time I read about them.
I really don't know how the authors does it but she makes these characters seem like real people. You feel as if they are your family as well reading about them and you just want to be a part of their family. The women are tough and will do anything to protect their families. If you like strong females you will love this series. Natasha at first I wasn't sure how she would fit in with Sully. She doesn't seem like the type that can hang with all that goes on in his life but she really surprised me in how awesome she truly is. She has to face giving herself up to save her brother and she does her best to hang on and do what it takes. I hate what she has to go through. Sully when he sets is mind on something doesn't give up. He does whatever it takes to try and get her back. As usual never think you see something coming in these books as the author will surprise you. This one has twist and turns I did not see coming. There is tons of danger in this book as there is truly some twisted humans in it. I do like a few of the surprises I got in this one and while I love Kid I have to say her little sister surprised me a bunch in this one. I know it's a ways off but I can't wait for her story. These peoples lives are far from perfect and they have an odd family of sorts but you will love them. If you haven't read this series yet I recommend you hurry and do so. It has love, passion, danger, twist and turns and so much more.
January 4, 2015
I fell in love with this author and series a while back. Each time I pick up the latest book in this series, I prepare myself for an epic journey with these characters. You will find a family made by life circumstance and by choice. Some will be connected by blood, others by marriage but all will be loyal and devoted to each other out of love and they find themselves in situations that could kill damage or destroy what they have created, but you will never find them turning their backs on each other.
In this book we explore Sully and his new found love Natasha. Kid is giving birth to her twins after a traumatic event that occurs to her and her brothers. Natasha was her nurse and the latest woman Sully wanted to get in bed. After two years of being turned down by her, something happened in her life that forced her to reach out to Kid for help, instead she got Sully.
Natasha’s brother Blake was a druggie and when her mom asked her to check up on him one night, she found she had not only walked into a crack house, she walked out a criminal. Sully is going to have to help her figure out what to do and get out of trouble but before he has a chance to do more with her, the criminals that she didn’t know she had now started a war with steps in and takes her. When faced with the choice of risking her life to save her brothers comes up she does what Natasha does, she tries to save her brother once again.
During this Sully and his crew is fighting to save Natasha and the twists and turns of this story take you all over the place emotionally. As with every book from this author, she left me feeling all sorts of emotions, from panic to elated, watching the crew back in action made my heart flitter with excitement and finally seeing Sully find the woman he needed in life was thrilling. He wasn’t an easy man to conquer, but when Natasha didn’t even want a date that was what made the thrill of the chase happen.
The events that occurred while she was in the hands of the crime Lords will make your head spin and your toes curl. She had to make some choices quickly that won’t make sense to a lot of readers right away but once you get to the end of the book and see what the purpose of Roman was, you will be impressed with her brilliance at how she managed to stay a live.
With each book as a stand-alone in this series, I highly recommend that you read all in order so you can really understand the intricate network of this “family”. For some it will seem strange that Kid, who is also known as Shannon, has so many men in her life yet she is in love with only one. For Sully to react the way he did in this book, you will have not understood the intensity and deep level of emotion in him if you didn’t see where he started from the beginning. Some might say this is a love triangle book, but for me it never was. Natasha did what she needed to do for Blake and Sully would be the guy to understand that with the past he has had with his “family”. I fear if you only pick this one up to read you will miss out on some very important details that will help you see just how huge this story was for Sully and the gang.
I highly recommend this author and series especially to those readers who want a wide range of emotions in the books and who loves a little darkness and twists to their reading. I became a fan of this authors from book one and she just keeps impressing me with her new takes on the plots with the same group of characters and the fact I can never predict where she is going is priceless to me.
In this book we explore Sully and his new found love Natasha. Kid is giving birth to her twins after a traumatic event that occurs to her and her brothers. Natasha was her nurse and the latest woman Sully wanted to get in bed. After two years of being turned down by her, something happened in her life that forced her to reach out to Kid for help, instead she got Sully.
Natasha’s brother Blake was a druggie and when her mom asked her to check up on him one night, she found she had not only walked into a crack house, she walked out a criminal. Sully is going to have to help her figure out what to do and get out of trouble but before he has a chance to do more with her, the criminals that she didn’t know she had now started a war with steps in and takes her. When faced with the choice of risking her life to save her brothers comes up she does what Natasha does, she tries to save her brother once again.
During this Sully and his crew is fighting to save Natasha and the twists and turns of this story take you all over the place emotionally. As with every book from this author, she left me feeling all sorts of emotions, from panic to elated, watching the crew back in action made my heart flitter with excitement and finally seeing Sully find the woman he needed in life was thrilling. He wasn’t an easy man to conquer, but when Natasha didn’t even want a date that was what made the thrill of the chase happen.
The events that occurred while she was in the hands of the crime Lords will make your head spin and your toes curl. She had to make some choices quickly that won’t make sense to a lot of readers right away but once you get to the end of the book and see what the purpose of Roman was, you will be impressed with her brilliance at how she managed to stay a live.
With each book as a stand-alone in this series, I highly recommend that you read all in order so you can really understand the intricate network of this “family”. For some it will seem strange that Kid, who is also known as Shannon, has so many men in her life yet she is in love with only one. For Sully to react the way he did in this book, you will have not understood the intensity and deep level of emotion in him if you didn’t see where he started from the beginning. Some might say this is a love triangle book, but for me it never was. Natasha did what she needed to do for Blake and Sully would be the guy to understand that with the past he has had with his “family”. I fear if you only pick this one up to read you will miss out on some very important details that will help you see just how huge this story was for Sully and the gang.
I highly recommend this author and series especially to those readers who want a wide range of emotions in the books and who loves a little darkness and twists to their reading. I became a fan of this authors from book one and she just keeps impressing me with her new takes on the plots with the same group of characters and the fact I can never predict where she is going is priceless to me.
April 15, 2015
*I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The Blackness Series is incredible. The stories are layered so it’s like you get multiple books in one and you can’t help but be glued to the pages. There’s action and suspense with a mixture of family and love. You get the mob style hold your breath moments that’ll have you on the edge of your seat. But better yet you get the love so deep he’ll do anything to get her back moments that warm your heart.
Natasha just wanted a simple life, her own things, and her brother back to the man he was before drugs took his life over. After a night gone horribly wrong, she’ll only end up getting one of those things and not because of any reason she would have ever imagined.
Her life will be anything but simple. Everything she worked so hard to acquire will be ripped from her. And she’ll have to say goodbye to her brother or risk losing him forever.
Brian (aka Sully) enjoys his life the way it is. He likes being a brother and an uncle and a player, but since the first time he met Natasha in the hospital he’s been drawn to her and when she needs his help he’ll go running. Problem is he’s stupid and will push her away no matter how much he wants her. Damn men!
“I told you. I’m an attorney. She called and needed some help. I’m here to do just that,” I reply blankly.
“You’re so fuckin’ full of shit. I see you lookin’ at her. You’re here walkin’ Zeus, namin’ the baby and puttin’ my sister to bed. Try again.”
So much happens in this book and it’s difficult to say anything without giving away the highlights, because goodness gracious it has so many twists and turns. I will say that Natasha gets put into a position where there doesn’t seem to be any daylight left at the end of her tunnel and Sully’s life will change in a matter of moments and his main focus in life will shift to his heart instead of his cock.
“Did you really just scare off her ex? Am I really here right now? I just witnessed Brian O’Sullivan acting territorial over a woman other than Kid?”
Norma you did another fantastic job with Blackness Within. I cannot wait to read Escaping the Blackness.
My Favorite Laughable Moment: Sully and his brothers can be so incredibly hilarious. I just absolutely love them all!
**small excerpt…just cannot help myself**
I double over laughing at his limp dick sporting a used, very stuck to him condom.
“Stop lookin’ at my junk, pervert,” he chides me, trying to pry the latex from himself.
“It looks like a dying albino elephant,” I sputter out, laughing harder as I speak and he winces while he tugs.
Once he gets the condom off he flings it at my head, missing badly.
“THE FUCK?!” Cal screams from behind me and I fall to my knees after I spy him ripping the condom off his face.
I’m laughing so hard I feel like I’m going to puke. My sides ache and my cheeks are cramping. Fuck, I needed this.
“Sorry, man,” Kav dismisses hi post-messy-sex foul.
“If I get herpes in my eyes from that, you’re a dead man,” Cal threatens.
The Blackness Series is incredible. The stories are layered so it’s like you get multiple books in one and you can’t help but be glued to the pages. There’s action and suspense with a mixture of family and love. You get the mob style hold your breath moments that’ll have you on the edge of your seat. But better yet you get the love so deep he’ll do anything to get her back moments that warm your heart.
Natasha just wanted a simple life, her own things, and her brother back to the man he was before drugs took his life over. After a night gone horribly wrong, she’ll only end up getting one of those things and not because of any reason she would have ever imagined.
Her life will be anything but simple. Everything she worked so hard to acquire will be ripped from her. And she’ll have to say goodbye to her brother or risk losing him forever.
Brian (aka Sully) enjoys his life the way it is. He likes being a brother and an uncle and a player, but since the first time he met Natasha in the hospital he’s been drawn to her and when she needs his help he’ll go running. Problem is he’s stupid and will push her away no matter how much he wants her. Damn men!
“I told you. I’m an attorney. She called and needed some help. I’m here to do just that,” I reply blankly.
“You’re so fuckin’ full of shit. I see you lookin’ at her. You’re here walkin’ Zeus, namin’ the baby and puttin’ my sister to bed. Try again.”
So much happens in this book and it’s difficult to say anything without giving away the highlights, because goodness gracious it has so many twists and turns. I will say that Natasha gets put into a position where there doesn’t seem to be any daylight left at the end of her tunnel and Sully’s life will change in a matter of moments and his main focus in life will shift to his heart instead of his cock.
“Did you really just scare off her ex? Am I really here right now? I just witnessed Brian O’Sullivan acting territorial over a woman other than Kid?”
Norma you did another fantastic job with Blackness Within. I cannot wait to read Escaping the Blackness.
My Favorite Laughable Moment: Sully and his brothers can be so incredibly hilarious. I just absolutely love them all!
**small excerpt…just cannot help myself**
I double over laughing at his limp dick sporting a used, very stuck to him condom.
“Stop lookin’ at my junk, pervert,” he chides me, trying to pry the latex from himself.
“It looks like a dying albino elephant,” I sputter out, laughing harder as I speak and he winces while he tugs.
Once he gets the condom off he flings it at my head, missing badly.
“THE FUCK?!” Cal screams from behind me and I fall to my knees after I spy him ripping the condom off his face.
I’m laughing so hard I feel like I’m going to puke. My sides ache and my cheeks are cramping. Fuck, I needed this.
“Sorry, man,” Kav dismisses hi post-messy-sex foul.
“If I get herpes in my eyes from that, you’re a dead man,” Cal threatens.
January 23, 2015
I got this book as a Advance Copy For a Honest review. I have to say that this surprised me. As, fight, mobsters books are something I rarely read, it was a slow start. I struggled to start reading this, but once I past the history part, which made me feel like it was stifled, just something off. I wanted to shut the book and forget it.
Then I got into the "guts" of the story it started to make sense. To draw me into the book so I felt like I was right there watching every single thing happen. It gives a whole new outlook on what each side trys to do be it breaking the law or trying to free someone from the bad guys. You will be drawn into the mismatched family members you will cheer for one side or another. It may even make you laugh out loud or grab a box of Kleenex. I know in a few spots I even had to get up and walk away from my Kinldle as I wanted to smack some sense into the main guys head.
It has lots of twists which you wouldnt expect, and just when the leading lady is going to get saved well there is another twist. Or about the time you think you have figured out the plot, well something else leads you to start thinking it may go this way or that way. But I am not telling, you will need to buy the book to find out what happens to this strong lady as she travels with the darkness within.
Now, I will say that the best part of this book is the way it goes from the lead lady's point of view to the lead man's point of view. At first it is a tad confusing but once you get into the grove of this book it allows the book more depth. I could not put it down till I finished it!!
What happens to the baby? I will tell you that is a huge thing you do not want to miss. So, if your like me and get stuck in the beginning, stick with it. You will not regret getting past the history to get to the meat of this story.
On a different note there was only few spelling error I found and no grammar issues at all with this story. I do not want to give away any spoilers, but this is a very good book. You will not regret taking the time to buy, read and review it. I know I didn't!! I wish I could only give it more then 5 stars!!
Then I got into the "guts" of the story it started to make sense. To draw me into the book so I felt like I was right there watching every single thing happen. It gives a whole new outlook on what each side trys to do be it breaking the law or trying to free someone from the bad guys. You will be drawn into the mismatched family members you will cheer for one side or another. It may even make you laugh out loud or grab a box of Kleenex. I know in a few spots I even had to get up and walk away from my Kinldle as I wanted to smack some sense into the main guys head.
It has lots of twists which you wouldnt expect, and just when the leading lady is going to get saved well there is another twist. Or about the time you think you have figured out the plot, well something else leads you to start thinking it may go this way or that way. But I am not telling, you will need to buy the book to find out what happens to this strong lady as she travels with the darkness within.
Now, I will say that the best part of this book is the way it goes from the lead lady's point of view to the lead man's point of view. At first it is a tad confusing but once you get into the grove of this book it allows the book more depth. I could not put it down till I finished it!!
What happens to the baby? I will tell you that is a huge thing you do not want to miss. So, if your like me and get stuck in the beginning, stick with it. You will not regret getting past the history to get to the meat of this story.
On a different note there was only few spelling error I found and no grammar issues at all with this story. I do not want to give away any spoilers, but this is a very good book. You will not regret taking the time to buy, read and review it. I know I didn't!! I wish I could only give it more then 5 stars!!
November 7, 2014
This was a great book. Natasha is a woman whom has been fighting to make her own way in the world while being tied down by her drug addict brother and dysfunctional mother. Just by chance she meets Brian O'Sullivan at the hospital she works in as a labor/delivery nurse. He is there with members of his tight nit family. He is everything she knows she needs to avoid-cocky, dominate, and womanizing. Each time they meet she avoids the temptation that he awakens within her by reminding herself how much she does not want to be hurt.
Fate seems to want to throw them together, however. Sully can't stop thinking about her and when she calls out of the blue desperate for help he finds himself drawn into a dangerous situation involving a stolen baby and a crime syndicate. Sully is a lawyer with a dark side and as much as he likes Natasha he knows he is bad news for her. He can't walk away from the horrible situation that unfolds.
I really liked all the characters in this book. From Sully, his unlikely family, Natasha, even Roman, each one was written with a great amount of care and description. The author really took the time to allow you to get familiar with each one in a way that was fascinating. The way Sully and his family interact with one another is captivating. The story itself was just as great. The action never really stops and it keeps your attention 100 percent. It delves into some dark subjects and situations that are so riveting you find yourself really worried for the characters. Some things happen to a main character (I'm trying to not spoil anything) that make your heart break for that character and also spotlights just how bad someone can get mentally.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes action or romance. This book has plenty of heart and the characters draw you in right away.
Fate seems to want to throw them together, however. Sully can't stop thinking about her and when she calls out of the blue desperate for help he finds himself drawn into a dangerous situation involving a stolen baby and a crime syndicate. Sully is a lawyer with a dark side and as much as he likes Natasha he knows he is bad news for her. He can't walk away from the horrible situation that unfolds.
I really liked all the characters in this book. From Sully, his unlikely family, Natasha, even Roman, each one was written with a great amount of care and description. The author really took the time to allow you to get familiar with each one in a way that was fascinating. The way Sully and his family interact with one another is captivating. The story itself was just as great. The action never really stops and it keeps your attention 100 percent. It delves into some dark subjects and situations that are so riveting you find yourself really worried for the characters. Some things happen to a main character (I'm trying to not spoil anything) that make your heart break for that character and also spotlights just how bad someone can get mentally.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes action or romance. This book has plenty of heart and the characters draw you in right away.
December 31, 2014
This book was awesome as the whole Blackness series is. Book 5 takes it up a notch if that's even possible.
I can not even BEGIN to tell you how excited I am for Blackness Within. This is Sully's story. One of the three major men that have been in Kid's life. And Sully doesn't disappoint.
As with all stories in the series, this one intensifies the heat and blackness that surrounds Sully.
Sully has been trying to make Natasha one of his randoms for about three years. She always rejects him with grace, not yielding to his charm. Sully is not used to rejection....EVER...and Natasha just ignites the flame in Sully even more. However, when Natasha finds herself in trouble, she turns to Sully for legal advise, and he finds himself falling into a blackness he never saw coming.
Blackness Within is full of darkness....intense darkness. This story will surprise you with all the twists, turns, and incredible plot. It is one of those stories that will leave you thinking LONG after its over. It is no secret how much I love this series. I have fallen for all he characters in this series. This family, this unconventional family will leave you in awe of the devotion to one another. Love, loyalty, and bad ass family members that will do whatever necessary to keep the family intact and happy. I am drawn into Kid's world and I don't want to leave.
Blackness Within is so incredible brilliant with the drama and action. Put in Kav's humor, and all the hot men and strong women in this story, and you can't have ANYTHING but an amazing action novel that will have you gripping the e-reader with intense anticipation. When I start one of these stories, I seriously never want it to end.
I can not even BEGIN to tell you how excited I am for Blackness Within. This is Sully's story. One of the three major men that have been in Kid's life. And Sully doesn't disappoint.
As with all stories in the series, this one intensifies the heat and blackness that surrounds Sully.
Sully has been trying to make Natasha one of his randoms for about three years. She always rejects him with grace, not yielding to his charm. Sully is not used to rejection....EVER...and Natasha just ignites the flame in Sully even more. However, when Natasha finds herself in trouble, she turns to Sully for legal advise, and he finds himself falling into a blackness he never saw coming.
Blackness Within is full of darkness....intense darkness. This story will surprise you with all the twists, turns, and incredible plot. It is one of those stories that will leave you thinking LONG after its over. It is no secret how much I love this series. I have fallen for all he characters in this series. This family, this unconventional family will leave you in awe of the devotion to one another. Love, loyalty, and bad ass family members that will do whatever necessary to keep the family intact and happy. I am drawn into Kid's world and I don't want to leave.
Blackness Within is so incredible brilliant with the drama and action. Put in Kav's humor, and all the hot men and strong women in this story, and you can't have ANYTHING but an amazing action novel that will have you gripping the e-reader with intense anticipation. When I start one of these stories, I seriously never want it to end.
June 28, 2016
This has to be both the worst and the best book in the series.
Loved it, Thank you Ms Karlsson.
Loved it, Thank you Ms Karlsson.
October 8, 2014
Can I just start by saying, Wow! I totally didn't expect this book! I spotted it on Net Galley as a newly added book available for request. I though it sounded interesting but was afraid to request it since it was book 5 in a series. I checked out the series and decided to try the first book. I was completely hooked and read the first four books this past weekend. I should probably say devoured rather than read, because that's what I truly did. Every single book had aspects which really threw me for a loop. Personally, I love that in a book. So, when I finally requested a copy of this book on Net Galley, I expected to be shocked...only I wasn't just shocked. I was completely floored. This book took this series to a whole different emotional level. I actually found myself so invested in Natasha's trauma that it affected my day. Crazy, I know, but wow! The author took some big risks with the direction she took in this story. It was hard to know at any given point who was good and who wasn't. I would love to give a full synopsis of the storyline, but I'm just not sure how to do it justice without spoilers. I will just say to the brave at heart, read this series in order, and don't miss this book!
October 12, 2014
Will O'Sullivan and Natasha Find Each Other in The Blackness Within?
The Blackness Within is Norma Jeanne Karlsson's 5th book in her 'The Blackness Series.' This was my first read in the series - hey, you have to start somewhere - and after experiencing some initial confusion about who was who and what was going on, I came to really appreciate this extended family of blood and non-blood relatives who care deeply for and take care of one another.
The Blackness Within is the story of Brian O'Sullivan, a lawyer, fighter, and playboy, and his initial lust-turned-to-caring-turned-to-love for Natasha, a nurse, cautious, and brave who avoids-him-then-needs-him-then-is-lost-to-him for a long period of time. Natasha is in trouble and O'Sullivan fails to protect her, he saves her, only to lose her again and almost again. Throughout the book I was rooting for both characters to find each other and make it good for life.
While the Blackness Within is a stand-alone and all becomes clear with proper context clues from the author, if you are like me and want to know it all before diving in, I recommend starting with the earlier books. I definitely enjoyed this book enough that I have to go and read Books 1 - 4!
The Blackness Within is Norma Jeanne Karlsson's 5th book in her 'The Blackness Series.' This was my first read in the series - hey, you have to start somewhere - and after experiencing some initial confusion about who was who and what was going on, I came to really appreciate this extended family of blood and non-blood relatives who care deeply for and take care of one another.
The Blackness Within is the story of Brian O'Sullivan, a lawyer, fighter, and playboy, and his initial lust-turned-to-caring-turned-to-love for Natasha, a nurse, cautious, and brave who avoids-him-then-needs-him-then-is-lost-to-him for a long period of time. Natasha is in trouble and O'Sullivan fails to protect her, he saves her, only to lose her again and almost again. Throughout the book I was rooting for both characters to find each other and make it good for life.
While the Blackness Within is a stand-alone and all becomes clear with proper context clues from the author, if you are like me and want to know it all before diving in, I recommend starting with the earlier books. I definitely enjoyed this book enough that I have to go and read Books 1 - 4!
October 14, 2014
ARC courtesy of Netgalley
i must admit that I did not read the first 4 books in this series. While it is not really necessary, I regret it because now I want to know the background of the other members of the family. I am sold on this series and will without doubt get the previous books. I was really surprised with the storyline. It was not predictable at all. The characters did not react the way I thought they would. Especially Natasha. I do not want to give away the plot but, her character was amazing. She went through so much and came out on top. In some parts of her story, I thought we were going to lose her. Brian(Sully), was another favorite. He was honest about who and what he was. He was not ready for Natasha, but when he got it together he was amazing. I can't wait to readi more!!!!
i must admit that I did not read the first 4 books in this series. While it is not really necessary, I regret it because now I want to know the background of the other members of the family. I am sold on this series and will without doubt get the previous books. I was really surprised with the storyline. It was not predictable at all. The characters did not react the way I thought they would. Especially Natasha. I do not want to give away the plot but, her character was amazing. She went through so much and came out on top. In some parts of her story, I thought we were going to lose her. Brian(Sully), was another favorite. He was honest about who and what he was. He was not ready for Natasha, but when he got it together he was amazing. I can't wait to readi more!!!!
November 7, 2014
I was gifted this book for an honest review by author Norma Jeanne Karlsson. This is book 5 of the Blackness series by the author.
Natasha Reynolds has had a hard life always doing whatever it took to get through things and try to make her life better for herself. Brian O’Sullivan is a hard hitting lawyer and a ladies man who loves to fight. He finds Natasha intriguing and wants to get to know her better but she shoots him down and will not give into her feelings to easily.
I have read the other 4 books and man this book I think is the best 1 yet. The author has great characters in this story. Natasha is written with heart and determination for her character.
This is for any romance readers who like a strong female lead character, drama and romance in their story.
Natasha Reynolds has had a hard life always doing whatever it took to get through things and try to make her life better for herself. Brian O’Sullivan is a hard hitting lawyer and a ladies man who loves to fight. He finds Natasha intriguing and wants to get to know her better but she shoots him down and will not give into her feelings to easily.
I have read the other 4 books and man this book I think is the best 1 yet. The author has great characters in this story. Natasha is written with heart and determination for her character.
This is for any romance readers who like a strong female lead character, drama and romance in their story.
March 18, 2017
"& I spent a life being fed violent dreams. I am no longer being fed violent dreams. I'm now surviving a nightmare."
At the beginning of the book til about 50% in I really liked where the character development was heading. Though to be honest I was a little annoyed with both Natasha and Brian, but never enough that it took away from the book. I definitely think I liked how the other female characters were more badass, but Natasha was amazing in her own right. I loved how adaptable she was to any situations and both their love for their families.
It really made me want to read more about the other characters, especially Aaron and Callaghan... to even Roman and Igor. ( HINT HINT )
And at the end I swooned completely and utter swooned
Best Book Proposal ever!!!!
October 4, 2014
Loved this book!!
This book is absolutely amazing!! This book is so unpredictable, honestly all of the books in this series is unpredictable and that is what I love most about this series! It took a while for it to all come together but once Sully officially claimed Natasha his love was so unconditional I wasn't sure if he had it in him. Natasha is strong she completely different from Kid Kat and Quinn but she's a survivor and she's loyal. I will say Roman and Natasha's relationship surprised me, but her and Sully are amazing!! Definitely with the buy :)
This book is absolutely amazing!! This book is so unpredictable, honestly all of the books in this series is unpredictable and that is what I love most about this series! It took a while for it to all come together but once Sully officially claimed Natasha his love was so unconditional I wasn't sure if he had it in him. Natasha is strong she completely different from Kid Kat and Quinn but she's a survivor and she's loyal. I will say Roman and Natasha's relationship surprised me, but her and Sully are amazing!! Definitely with the buy :)
October 15, 2014
Another great read about Kid and her protectors. I am happy to see some of the bachelor's for life finding true love and settling down. I was on the same emotional roller coaster as the characters. It was a ride! I did not expect the villain to be who it was though, which was nice. When I was reading near the end I did not realize I was almost done and yelled at the book for being over! I cannot wait to read more about this unconventional and unconditional family.
June 26, 2016
I'm not exactly sure what to write for this review. I will start out by saying that I love this series and this author. This book was especially dark, which is to be expected with the theme of the series. To put it plainly, this book had a lot of fucked up parts. Like really fucked up. But I'm hoping that I will enjoy the next installments more, because I'm dying to read them. I'm hoping to read both Aidan's and Sawyer and Mia's stories in the near future.
October 30, 2014
I LOVE THIS FAMILY. They all pull together with no questions and back each other up. This one was a bit darker than the others but Sully is awesome. The depth of his feelings and his desire to save Natasha is inspiring.
I really like the potential for more stories about this family in the younger kids and Im still waiting for Kav and Cal to meet their matches.
I really like the potential for more stories about this family in the younger kids and Im still waiting for Kav and Cal to meet their matches.
December 14, 2014
Worth Fighting For...Yup
This is another well written story. The series is excellent. The read is action packed from start to finish. You get pulled into the story, you find yourself laughing and crying with the characters. Hoping that things work out the way you want them to be. If you like thrilling hot reads then this is the book for you. Enjoy, I did.
This is another well written story. The series is excellent. The read is action packed from start to finish. You get pulled into the story, you find yourself laughing and crying with the characters. Hoping that things work out the way you want them to be. If you like thrilling hot reads then this is the book for you. Enjoy, I did.
November 5, 2016
5 stars!!! I read this series as a whole and must say each book gets truly better.... you feel for each character and you truly need more and I can't wait!!! Each character and all the secondary characters come to mean something and they also are entwined within this family! I loved it and I will recommend it to all !!!!!
October 13, 2014
Loved this series! I enjoyed being able to hear the story of all the fascinating characters you are introduced to. Such an amazing unconventional family that no matter what life hands them they stick by each other. Must read.
January 6, 2015
Yet another rollercoaster ride!
Norma Jeanne Karlsson doesn't disappoint! I was so pulled into this book, I laughed, had tears, even cursed a few times. Great addition to the series.
Norma Jeanne Karlsson doesn't disappoint! I was so pulled into this book, I laughed, had tears, even cursed a few times. Great addition to the series.
December 24, 2016
Love it!!
I absolutely love this series! I can not wait to read the rest of the series that goes into the Cooper Brothers!! Norma Jeanne Karlsson just became one of my favorite authors!
I absolutely love this series! I can not wait to read the rest of the series that goes into the Cooper Brothers!! Norma Jeanne Karlsson just became one of my favorite authors!
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