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Dark Lessons
One hot night with a devastatingly handsome stranger. That’s all it was supposed to be. So when my darkly domineering one-night stand turns out to be one of my instructors at Quantico, my life becomes far too complicated. I’m training as an FBI agent, but Jason has other forms of training in mind. Like bending me over his desk for a spanking.
I try to resist him, but soon we’re stealing forbidden hours of lust when no one’s watching. It could cost us both our careers, but I can’t help myself. He’s broken, and I want to be his salvation.
In return, he says he wants to protect me, to love me. But can he save me when my new job puts me directly in the path of danger?
I try to resist him, but soon we’re stealing forbidden hours of lust when no one’s watching. It could cost us both our careers, but I can’t help myself. He’s broken, and I want to be his salvation.
In return, he says he wants to protect me, to love me. But can he save me when my new job puts me directly in the path of danger?
354 pages, Paperback
Published April 2, 2017
1262 people are currently reading
1373 people want to read
About the author
Julia Sykes
138 books2,023 followersJulia Sykes is a USA Today bestselling author of edgy, emotional romance. When she's not writing, she's usually reading.
Other than reading, her obsessions include iced coffee, unicorns, charcuterie, aged Manchego cheese (or any cheese, really), and fancy dresses.
An American expat, Julia now lives in her adopted, beloved home of York, England. Most days, you can find her wandering the cobbled streets and daydreaming about her next novel.
Other than reading, her obsessions include iced coffee, unicorns, charcuterie, aged Manchego cheese (or any cheese, really), and fancy dresses.
An American expat, Julia now lives in her adopted, beloved home of York, England. Most days, you can find her wandering the cobbled streets and daydreaming about her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
March 24, 2017
This cover is just OK. I am not sure ANY cover would be a good representation of this book to be honest. The composition isn't that great either. The text at the top and bottom is stretched too much giving it a skewed look.
The first half of this book was really good. It was well-written. Nicely pace. Was smokin' hot. Had likable characters. Everything was just going so well. It was looking to be a 4-4.5 Star book. Then at 50%, it took the most unbelievably BIZARRE turn that left me going...uh what?! Next thing I know we have skipped five years in the future, and it turns into an entirely different book. I honestly don't even know what to say. The whole plot of the second half was just...WIERD. It also wasn't very fleshed out. AND there were some plotholes large enough to drive a semi through (IMO.) Unfortunately, the author completely lost me at that point.
That said I am still giving this one 3-Stars because the first half was excellent. This author writes great BDSM scenes and I will most likely continue on and read the next book when it is released.
December 5, 2019
Nothing really stands out but I didn't really hate it either.
A lot of steam with some action parts.
Maybe bc I'm not a BDSM fan or maybe bc it is Thursday who knows ...
Glad I gave Julia Sykes a chance, it was my first read by her.
2,5 stars
A lot of steam with some action parts.
Maybe bc I'm not a BDSM fan or maybe bc it is Thursday who knows ...
Glad I gave Julia Sykes a chance, it was my first read by her.
2,5 stars
October 3, 2017
Another awesome book by Ms. Sykes!
Dark Lessons is very interesting in the way it develops. The two main characters find themselves in a sticky situation after a night of hot sex.
Natalie is tough and independent, and will stop at nothing to reach her goal in becoming a field agent for Quantico. Jason is forced to take a new job as a instructor at Quantico, where he meets a woman that turns his whole life upside down.
Dark Lessons is packed with action, and hot/explicit romance scenes. Obviously my type of book! Very unique plot and the writing is perfect.
Dark Lessons is very interesting in the way it develops. The two main characters find themselves in a sticky situation after a night of hot sex.
Natalie is tough and independent, and will stop at nothing to reach her goal in becoming a field agent for Quantico. Jason is forced to take a new job as a instructor at Quantico, where he meets a woman that turns his whole life upside down.
Dark Lessons is packed with action, and hot/explicit romance scenes. Obviously my type of book! Very unique plot and the writing is perfect.
April 7, 2017
Dark Lessons was my first Julia Sykes read, and it’s certainly left me excited to read more of her work. In fact, I already plan to pick up her Impossible series to see whether it’s as addictive as this one.
You see, Dark Lessons is one of those reads where you’re sucked right in. As soon as you start the story, you’re pulled into the world. It was a one-sit read, every time I told myself I’d be putting it aside at the end of a chapter, I was hit by something that left me wanting more. Whether it was a dramatic moment in the romance or a new twist to the suspense, every chapter left me wanting to read more. Every single chapter left me with questions of how things would play out.
Don’t get me wrong, the book wasn’t perfect. It was merely the perfect level of addition to ensure I kept reading. I had some ups and downs with this one, certain things left me unsure, but I was always curious about what would come next. The one thing I cannot fault is the level of addition created by the story.
As I’ve already stated, you’re pulled in from the very first page. The prologue introduces us to our broken lead, and then we’re thrown into the steamy stuff. It’s wonderful, and instantly I was left wanting more. It’s over quickly, though, and we’re thrown into what the super interesting synopsis promised us.
I’ve yet to mention that, actually. The synopsis. By gosh, that synopsis pulled me in. Honestly, I cannot begin to explain how excited the synopsis made me. A devilishly handsome FBI agent and dark bedroom antics – sign me right up. There was no way for me to ignore the synopsis. The book screamed out to me – it’s two of my favourite things thrown together. It was impossible to ignore.
Although, in all honesty, I was quite surprised by how little of the story was actually taken up by the whole teacher-student aspect. I was really enjoying the way it played out, but once we get part way through the story chances and requires us to suspend our belief somewhat. I’m not saying what happens, as I have no wish to be the person who spoils the story, but it changes and it took me a while to really appreciate where things were going. At first, I disliked the shift. By the end, though, I came to like where things went. It wasn’t how I’d wanted the story to play out, it wasn’t quite the story I had expected it to be, but I did enjoy it. Hence the four star rating.
If nothing else, the second part of the story has left me super excited about the next book. Whilst this works perfectly fine as a standalone novel, the ending has left me intrigued to see where the story of other characters will go. I’m fairly certainly I’ll be picking it up when I get a chance – until then, I do plan to read some of the author’s prior work.
As a whole, it was a wonderful read. It wasn’t quite all I’d been hoping for, but it was a thoroughly addictive story.
You see, Dark Lessons is one of those reads where you’re sucked right in. As soon as you start the story, you’re pulled into the world. It was a one-sit read, every time I told myself I’d be putting it aside at the end of a chapter, I was hit by something that left me wanting more. Whether it was a dramatic moment in the romance or a new twist to the suspense, every chapter left me wanting to read more. Every single chapter left me with questions of how things would play out.
Don’t get me wrong, the book wasn’t perfect. It was merely the perfect level of addition to ensure I kept reading. I had some ups and downs with this one, certain things left me unsure, but I was always curious about what would come next. The one thing I cannot fault is the level of addition created by the story.
As I’ve already stated, you’re pulled in from the very first page. The prologue introduces us to our broken lead, and then we’re thrown into the steamy stuff. It’s wonderful, and instantly I was left wanting more. It’s over quickly, though, and we’re thrown into what the super interesting synopsis promised us.
I’ve yet to mention that, actually. The synopsis. By gosh, that synopsis pulled me in. Honestly, I cannot begin to explain how excited the synopsis made me. A devilishly handsome FBI agent and dark bedroom antics – sign me right up. There was no way for me to ignore the synopsis. The book screamed out to me – it’s two of my favourite things thrown together. It was impossible to ignore.
Although, in all honesty, I was quite surprised by how little of the story was actually taken up by the whole teacher-student aspect. I was really enjoying the way it played out, but once we get part way through the story chances and requires us to suspend our belief somewhat. I’m not saying what happens, as I have no wish to be the person who spoils the story, but it changes and it took me a while to really appreciate where things were going. At first, I disliked the shift. By the end, though, I came to like where things went. It wasn’t how I’d wanted the story to play out, it wasn’t quite the story I had expected it to be, but I did enjoy it. Hence the four star rating.
If nothing else, the second part of the story has left me super excited about the next book. Whilst this works perfectly fine as a standalone novel, the ending has left me intrigued to see where the story of other characters will go. I’m fairly certainly I’ll be picking it up when I get a chance – until then, I do plan to read some of the author’s prior work.
As a whole, it was a wonderful read. It wasn’t quite all I’d been hoping for, but it was a thoroughly addictive story.
April 10, 2017
3 My Kitten stars.
It was o.k, parts of this had me rolling my eyes with the come for me, your mine and other sex scene commands and it was a book I was checking to see how long was left even though it did pick up pace and have different action near the end.
Jason is a ptsd sufferer serving in the FBI also into BDSM. Natalie is a new recruit in the FBI. They both have a one night stand neither of them knowing that their paths would cross again.
Natalie starts her training for the FBI & Jason is her new instructor.
Contains hotness,action,danger and suspense.
Mostly enjoyed, mainly the action part of the plot.
The next book is based on one of Jason's colleges who he suspects has been kidnapped at the end of this story so the series does follow characters in each book.
Arc received for review purposes
http://www.Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
It was o.k, parts of this had me rolling my eyes with the come for me, your mine and other sex scene commands and it was a book I was checking to see how long was left even though it did pick up pace and have different action near the end.
Jason is a ptsd sufferer serving in the FBI also into BDSM. Natalie is a new recruit in the FBI. They both have a one night stand neither of them knowing that their paths would cross again.
Natalie starts her training for the FBI & Jason is her new instructor.
Contains hotness,action,danger and suspense.
Mostly enjoyed, mainly the action part of the plot.
The next book is based on one of Jason's colleges who he suspects has been kidnapped at the end of this story so the series does follow characters in each book.
Arc received for review purposes
http://www.Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
April 4, 2017
Everything was fine until
What. The. Actual. Fuck ?
The author said that the reader doesn't need to read the Impossible Series to understand. Can I say I seriously disagree ? What a mess.
What. The. Actual. Fuck ?
The author said that the reader doesn't need to read the Impossible Series to understand. Can I say I seriously disagree ? What a mess.
April 7, 2017
3.5*
With Dark Lessons it's like you get 2 books in 1.
The first half of the book is sweet and sexy, with Jason and Natalie getting to know each other, discovering how really compatible they are together, and navigating that fine line between student & teacher and lovers. I thought this section was really enjoyable. Natalie is very focused on her training to become the best FBI agent she possibly can, and Jason is dealing with, and still reeling from, things that happened in his past. Even with the obstacles facing them, they're determined to make a go of things between them, biding their time until Natalie graduates.
The second half of the veered off into much darker territory- it was like a completely different story from the first part. And while it was quite intriguing I felt a disconnect. The beginning was mostly light-hearted with a fair dose of hot and sexy, and then we move into the heavier, darker, storyline. It took on a totally different feel- more suspensful and mysterious than the beginning. If the entire book had been written in this vein I think I would have found it much more enjoyable. even though I really did like the first half.
The way the story ends I didn't feel like there was resolution to anything at all, I was left with more questions than answers. There was just too much that wasn't explained. Apparently there will be another book in the series, picking up where this one left off, but I'm not sure I'm quite invested enough to see where it all goes. I wish the entire book had focused more on what happened "after".
*ARC received and reviewed.
With Dark Lessons it's like you get 2 books in 1.
The first half of the book is sweet and sexy, with Jason and Natalie getting to know each other, discovering how really compatible they are together, and navigating that fine line between student & teacher and lovers. I thought this section was really enjoyable. Natalie is very focused on her training to become the best FBI agent she possibly can, and Jason is dealing with, and still reeling from, things that happened in his past. Even with the obstacles facing them, they're determined to make a go of things between them, biding their time until Natalie graduates.
The second half of the veered off into much darker territory- it was like a completely different story from the first part. And while it was quite intriguing I felt a disconnect. The beginning was mostly light-hearted with a fair dose of hot and sexy, and then we move into the heavier, darker, storyline. It took on a totally different feel- more suspensful and mysterious than the beginning. If the entire book had been written in this vein I think I would have found it much more enjoyable. even though I really did like the first half.
The way the story ends I didn't feel like there was resolution to anything at all, I was left with more questions than answers. There was just too much that wasn't explained. Apparently there will be another book in the series, picking up where this one left off, but I'm not sure I'm quite invested enough to see where it all goes. I wish the entire book had focused more on what happened "after".
*ARC received and reviewed.
April 5, 2017
Well. That was WAAAAAYYYY darker than I imagined when I started it. I mean, it was so dark and twisted it creeped me out and made me uncomfortable. But it was well written and captivating and kept me turning pages.
I don't want to say too much for fear of giving away the whole story, but Jason and Natalie met one night at a bar and had a hot one night stand. The next day, she appeared in his hand to hand combat class at Quantico. They knew they shouldn't be together, but they couldn't stay away from each other. They planned to be together after she graduated and went into the field, but circumstances drew the apart, and kept them apart. Will they find their way to one another again? Will they be able to be together if they do? read it and find out!
As I said before, the writing was great! I kept turning pages and couldn't put it down. I was uncomfortable with some of the things that happened, they may not bother someone else. Especially if they are fans of dark reads (dark reads are not my usual LOL). Will I read the next book? Maybe so. It left me wondering what will happen to Jason and Natalie and the rest of the characters.
*thanks to Ardent PR for sharing a copy of this with me*
I don't want to say too much for fear of giving away the whole story, but Jason and Natalie met one night at a bar and had a hot one night stand. The next day, she appeared in his hand to hand combat class at Quantico. They knew they shouldn't be together, but they couldn't stay away from each other. They planned to be together after she graduated and went into the field, but circumstances drew the apart, and kept them apart. Will they find their way to one another again? Will they be able to be together if they do? read it and find out!
As I said before, the writing was great! I kept turning pages and couldn't put it down. I was uncomfortable with some of the things that happened, they may not bother someone else. Especially if they are fans of dark reads (dark reads are not my usual LOL). Will I read the next book? Maybe so. It left me wondering what will happen to Jason and Natalie and the rest of the characters.
*thanks to Ardent PR for sharing a copy of this with me*
April 12, 2017
“I’m going to make you purr…”
IN DARK LESSONS, USA Today Bestselling author Julia Sykes takes her trademark dark and thrillingly erotic romantic suspense trope and gives it a DELICIOUSLY TABOO teacher/student twist! And omgeeeee I loved every spine-tingling moment!!!!
This action-packed page-turner has everything I could ask for in a dark romantic thriller. Drama. Intrigue. Edge-of-your-seat peril. Blazing hot BDSM. Heart gripping angst. And, of course, a dominantly sexy FBI protector who oozes so much pure, primal animal magnetism, he brings you to your knees!
To say FBI agent Jason Harper and new Quantico recruit Natalie Simmons generate sparks is an understatement. The moment their eyed lock in The Community Tap bar their attraction is Instantaneous. Electrifying. Visceral. Undeniable. All Natalie wants to do is blow off a little steam the night before she immerses herself in her rigorous field training. She’s NOT looking for a hot hookup but all bets are off when she catches the eye of a tall, enigmatic stranger who commands the room. Powerfully mesmerized by his uber-dominance, helplessly drawn in by his potent charm, he brings out the untamed sex kitten in her!
Although Natalie is woefully inexperienced in BDSM, it’s glaringly obvious she’s submissive at her core, which calls to the natural born Master in Jason. He hungers to introduce her to the world of Domination and Submission… wants to own EVERY FORBIDDEN INCH of her…and before they know it a friendly wager leads to the hottest, most wickedly wanton night of their lives! But their bubble of bliss bursts the next morning when Natalie discovers her sexy as sin lover is none other than her new hand to hand combat instructor at the academy!
Oops! Rule number one for a new recruit. Do. Not. Sleep. With. Your. Instructor!! Especially when said instructor is a broody, tortured soul who is battling internal demons that could destroy both your lives! They try to stay away from each other, to do the right, the noble, thing, but their good intentions are no match for their ALL-CONSUMING attraction that obliterates their hearts!
However, when a dark, diabolical plot is set in motion that threatens to tear them apart forever, they will need to utilize every bit of arsenal at their disposal to protect each other…and fight for their love!!
HOLY SMOKES! This book was on fire!! The forbidden lust and clandestine attraction between Natalie and her potently sexy FBI instructor is so scorching hot and powerfully seductive, I could literally FEEL THE BURN!!
Once again, through the sheer power of her vibrant, visceral prose, full bodied characters, and darkly transfixing plot line, Julia Sykes ensnares you in a web of chilling suspense, spellbinding sensuality and fiery emotion! This twisty tale hooked me from the start and swept me up in a vortex of dark, scandalous desires and adrenaline pumping peril!
I LOVE me an ultra-protective, exquisitely tender, darkly commanding Dom….and swooooon Agent Harper makes me want to purr like a kitten!! He pulsates with raw, masculine power and radiates potent sex appeal, yet there is an inner vulnerability and fallibility to him that makes him extremely relatable. He is just so DAMAGED and BROKEN my heart bleeds for him!! After enduring years of physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his father and then suffering from debilitating PTSD, his ENTIRE WORLD implodes when he’s caught red-handed popping some pills to numb the pain. And the consequences are dire. He’s pulled the field. Sent to detox. Demoted.
The rage, self-loathing, and shame that burns through his veins when he back to Quantico with his tail between his legs, assigned to teach the new recruits and forced to undergo psychological treatment until he is deemed ready to return to active duty, is palpable. But Jason is NO quitter, and is fiercely determined to salvage his career. But the one person who threatens to derail those plans is Natalie…the beautiful, sultry recruit who is strictly off limits.
Deep down, Jason is a man who craves control, and before his life crashed and burned, he found it in dominating a woman. But he has turned his back on the lifestyle, feels unworthy of a submissive’s trust. Nevertheless, Natalie wreaks havoc with Jason’s steely resolve to master his dark urges, and rouses his predatory instincts to PROTECT, CONQUER and CLAIM!
"Natalie’s submission was as addictive as the drugs I’d abused. Just as addictive and equally as dangerous."
Natalie is also a fascinating study in contradictions. On one hand she is strong and capable, a fiercely ambitious, KICKASS recruit who’s determined to graduate the academy and forge a career in the Bureau on her own volition. Yet on the flip side, there is an air of innocence and sweet submissiveness about her that is utterly alluring
"The soft, sweet little kitten I’d played with during our hot night together was still there, hidden under all that fire. I found the dichotomy painfully arousing; knowing that she was a strong, capable woman who melted just for me called to my Dominant nature."
There is DELICIOUSLY TORTUROUS friction between this couple throughout, especially when this book takes a decidedly darker turn and their lives are placed in mortal danger. As expected, there is nothing Natalie’s fearsome protector won’t do to take down their enemies and keep his feisty sub safe…even if it’s the LAST thing she wants!!
"She might not need rescuing, but that didn’t mean I wasn’t going to protect her."
One thing Julia Sykes excels at, aside from breathtaking suspense and torrid/tender BDSM interludes that leave you quivering, is her shocking plot twists that are total game changers! And there is one DOOZY OF A CURVEBALL that was so harrowing I am still shuddering! I truly thought the plot was going in one direction and then BAM! And Omfg...when everything comes to a head, my heart completely shatters for both these characters. The excruciating pain and suffering they‘ve had to endure seems UNBEARABLE at times, yet through it all their soul-burning love for each other always illuminates the suffocating darkness.
Ultimately, DARK LESSONS delivers on EVERY LEVEL, culminating in a flawlessly executed, nail-biting denouement that’s so GRIPPING, HYPNOTICALLY INTENSE and BLISTERLINGLY EMOTIONAL I still have goosebumps!
5 Purrrfectly spectacular stars!
IN DARK LESSONS, USA Today Bestselling author Julia Sykes takes her trademark dark and thrillingly erotic romantic suspense trope and gives it a DELICIOUSLY TABOO teacher/student twist! And omgeeeee I loved every spine-tingling moment!!!!
This action-packed page-turner has everything I could ask for in a dark romantic thriller. Drama. Intrigue. Edge-of-your-seat peril. Blazing hot BDSM. Heart gripping angst. And, of course, a dominantly sexy FBI protector who oozes so much pure, primal animal magnetism, he brings you to your knees!
To say FBI agent Jason Harper and new Quantico recruit Natalie Simmons generate sparks is an understatement. The moment their eyed lock in The Community Tap bar their attraction is Instantaneous. Electrifying. Visceral. Undeniable. All Natalie wants to do is blow off a little steam the night before she immerses herself in her rigorous field training. She’s NOT looking for a hot hookup but all bets are off when she catches the eye of a tall, enigmatic stranger who commands the room. Powerfully mesmerized by his uber-dominance, helplessly drawn in by his potent charm, he brings out the untamed sex kitten in her!
Although Natalie is woefully inexperienced in BDSM, it’s glaringly obvious she’s submissive at her core, which calls to the natural born Master in Jason. He hungers to introduce her to the world of Domination and Submission… wants to own EVERY FORBIDDEN INCH of her…and before they know it a friendly wager leads to the hottest, most wickedly wanton night of their lives! But their bubble of bliss bursts the next morning when Natalie discovers her sexy as sin lover is none other than her new hand to hand combat instructor at the academy!
Oops! Rule number one for a new recruit. Do. Not. Sleep. With. Your. Instructor!! Especially when said instructor is a broody, tortured soul who is battling internal demons that could destroy both your lives! They try to stay away from each other, to do the right, the noble, thing, but their good intentions are no match for their ALL-CONSUMING attraction that obliterates their hearts!
However, when a dark, diabolical plot is set in motion that threatens to tear them apart forever, they will need to utilize every bit of arsenal at their disposal to protect each other…and fight for their love!!
HOLY SMOKES! This book was on fire!! The forbidden lust and clandestine attraction between Natalie and her potently sexy FBI instructor is so scorching hot and powerfully seductive, I could literally FEEL THE BURN!!
Once again, through the sheer power of her vibrant, visceral prose, full bodied characters, and darkly transfixing plot line, Julia Sykes ensnares you in a web of chilling suspense, spellbinding sensuality and fiery emotion! This twisty tale hooked me from the start and swept me up in a vortex of dark, scandalous desires and adrenaline pumping peril!
I LOVE me an ultra-protective, exquisitely tender, darkly commanding Dom….and swooooon Agent Harper makes me want to purr like a kitten!! He pulsates with raw, masculine power and radiates potent sex appeal, yet there is an inner vulnerability and fallibility to him that makes him extremely relatable. He is just so DAMAGED and BROKEN my heart bleeds for him!! After enduring years of physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his father and then suffering from debilitating PTSD, his ENTIRE WORLD implodes when he’s caught red-handed popping some pills to numb the pain. And the consequences are dire. He’s pulled the field. Sent to detox. Demoted.
The rage, self-loathing, and shame that burns through his veins when he back to Quantico with his tail between his legs, assigned to teach the new recruits and forced to undergo psychological treatment until he is deemed ready to return to active duty, is palpable. But Jason is NO quitter, and is fiercely determined to salvage his career. But the one person who threatens to derail those plans is Natalie…the beautiful, sultry recruit who is strictly off limits.
Deep down, Jason is a man who craves control, and before his life crashed and burned, he found it in dominating a woman. But he has turned his back on the lifestyle, feels unworthy of a submissive’s trust. Nevertheless, Natalie wreaks havoc with Jason’s steely resolve to master his dark urges, and rouses his predatory instincts to PROTECT, CONQUER and CLAIM!
"Natalie’s submission was as addictive as the drugs I’d abused. Just as addictive and equally as dangerous."
Natalie is also a fascinating study in contradictions. On one hand she is strong and capable, a fiercely ambitious, KICKASS recruit who’s determined to graduate the academy and forge a career in the Bureau on her own volition. Yet on the flip side, there is an air of innocence and sweet submissiveness about her that is utterly alluring
"The soft, sweet little kitten I’d played with during our hot night together was still there, hidden under all that fire. I found the dichotomy painfully arousing; knowing that she was a strong, capable woman who melted just for me called to my Dominant nature."
There is DELICIOUSLY TORTUROUS friction between this couple throughout, especially when this book takes a decidedly darker turn and their lives are placed in mortal danger. As expected, there is nothing Natalie’s fearsome protector won’t do to take down their enemies and keep his feisty sub safe…even if it’s the LAST thing she wants!!
"She might not need rescuing, but that didn’t mean I wasn’t going to protect her."
One thing Julia Sykes excels at, aside from breathtaking suspense and torrid/tender BDSM interludes that leave you quivering, is her shocking plot twists that are total game changers! And there is one DOOZY OF A CURVEBALL that was so harrowing I am still shuddering! I truly thought the plot was going in one direction and then BAM! And Omfg...when everything comes to a head, my heart completely shatters for both these characters. The excruciating pain and suffering they‘ve had to endure seems UNBEARABLE at times, yet through it all their soul-burning love for each other always illuminates the suffocating darkness.
Ultimately, DARK LESSONS delivers on EVERY LEVEL, culminating in a flawlessly executed, nail-biting denouement that’s so GRIPPING, HYPNOTICALLY INTENSE and BLISTERLINGLY EMOTIONAL I still have goosebumps!
5 Purrrfectly spectacular stars!
April 8, 2017
3-3.5 star rating
I have to think on this one first. I'm really struggling with how to rate it. Part of me loved it. Then another part thought some of it was a little unbelievable. And, when it comes to BDSM, sometimes I love it, and sometimes I hate it. I guess I'm kind of in the middle with this one. I did get kind of sick of the "kitten" thing. Jason just seemed to be a little too much of an alpha male to keep up with that nickname. Well, let me get my thoughts together...
I have to think on this one first. I'm really struggling with how to rate it. Part of me loved it. Then another part thought some of it was a little unbelievable. And, when it comes to BDSM, sometimes I love it, and sometimes I hate it. I guess I'm kind of in the middle with this one. I did get kind of sick of the "kitten" thing. Jason just seemed to be a little too much of an alpha male to keep up with that nickname. Well, let me get my thoughts together...
April 1, 2017
Wow…this was so different. We start with Natalie who is following her dream of becoming an FBI agent at Quantico. She has a one night stand with Jason who is an instructor, but not any instructor. Turns out he is fighting demons and has been pulled from the field to deal with them, but she is the light he needs to make it back. Just when things are finally ready to get to the HEA Natalie is suddenly gone and Jason spirals down a dark path.
This was a complex story (especially when we are trying to understand her training with Alex) with a fantastic strong heroine. She is a stone cold agent who was trained by the best. Just when I thought she was gone forever she ends up on a mission that sends them on a collision course. But when they cross paths again will he be able to get through to her before her boss catches up with them?
This is one of those stories that it is best to go in blind. The twists are off the charts and it’s best if you don’t have a clue what is going on. I can say this was fantastically written and the characters were complex and I loved so many of them. I think Jason and Natalie are perfect together and I’m so glad the story ended the way it did for Jason and his kitten. Can't wait for more about Sam!
Hero 5 Stars / Heroine 5 stars / Steam 5 stars / Plot 5 stars / Overall 5 Stars
Keys: MF, FBI, BDSM, killer, violence, suspense, twisted, dark and dominant, on the edge of my seat
#MSBB - I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book
This was a complex story (especially when we are trying to understand her training with Alex) with a fantastic strong heroine. She is a stone cold agent who was trained by the best. Just when I thought she was gone forever she ends up on a mission that sends them on a collision course. But when they cross paths again will he be able to get through to her before her boss catches up with them?
This is one of those stories that it is best to go in blind. The twists are off the charts and it’s best if you don’t have a clue what is going on. I can say this was fantastically written and the characters were complex and I loved so many of them. I think Jason and Natalie are perfect together and I’m so glad the story ended the way it did for Jason and his kitten. Can't wait for more about Sam!
Hero 5 Stars / Heroine 5 stars / Steam 5 stars / Plot 5 stars / Overall 5 Stars
Keys: MF, FBI, BDSM, killer, violence, suspense, twisted, dark and dominant, on the edge of my seat
#MSBB - I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book
April 14, 2017
"Because I know you're a strong, capable woman, but I'm going to make you purr."
Natalie Simmons has worked her entire life to escape the Southern Belle life she was brought into and trained to become an elite student at Quantico. Agent Jason Harper has been under the thumb of his overbearing father and due to PTSD struggles he’s been demoted from field agent to Quantico teacher. Imagine both of their shock when they discover their student/teacher association after a steamy one-night hook-up! Jason has a few lessons for Natalie that don’t only involve the classroom… but will Natalie risk her career for fleeting passion?
Dark Lessons morphed into a read that I didn’t expect…BDSM mixed with military action. Based on the blurb and cover I thought the BDSM elements would be a tinge darker but I didn’t find this book at all dark- romantic suspense at most. It’s just me as I’m more into darker non-con reads and not into ACTUAL representations of BDSM as much but sometimes it was a chore to get through some of the scenes for me. Consider them BDSM 101 *snore*.
I kept reading because fellow readers indicated something huge would happen about halfway through- which it did and which I didn’t expect! I loved the twist the book took! I think the first half could have been reduced as more of a preface to the second half because I feel the events after all the lovey-dovey BDSM parts drove this baby home! I would’ve liked more detail, more answers, and more action that was delivered in the end.
Overall I did enjoy this book and thought it was very well-written. The prose flowed and the author has a supreme knack for descriptive passages. Based on the ending I AM interested in finding out what happens next *crosses fingers* for some good suspense on the sequel!
3.5 stars
*Received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
Natalie Simmons has worked her entire life to escape the Southern Belle life she was brought into and trained to become an elite student at Quantico. Agent Jason Harper has been under the thumb of his overbearing father and due to PTSD struggles he’s been demoted from field agent to Quantico teacher. Imagine both of their shock when they discover their student/teacher association after a steamy one-night hook-up! Jason has a few lessons for Natalie that don’t only involve the classroom… but will Natalie risk her career for fleeting passion?
Dark Lessons morphed into a read that I didn’t expect…BDSM mixed with military action. Based on the blurb and cover I thought the BDSM elements would be a tinge darker but I didn’t find this book at all dark- romantic suspense at most. It’s just me as I’m more into darker non-con reads and not into ACTUAL representations of BDSM as much but sometimes it was a chore to get through some of the scenes for me. Consider them BDSM 101 *snore*.
I kept reading because fellow readers indicated something huge would happen about halfway through- which it did and which I didn’t expect! I loved the twist the book took! I think the first half could have been reduced as more of a preface to the second half because I feel the events after all the lovey-dovey BDSM parts drove this baby home! I would’ve liked more detail, more answers, and more action that was delivered in the end.
Overall I did enjoy this book and thought it was very well-written. The prose flowed and the author has a supreme knack for descriptive passages. Based on the ending I AM interested in finding out what happens next *crosses fingers* for some good suspense on the sequel!
3.5 stars
*Received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
March 28, 2017
I wanted to like this book i really did.
To me the blurb had me really interested but when i read it, i don't know if i was in a weird mood and just wasn't feeling it but i just couldn't get on with it.
I found myself skim reading and then regretting it because how can i give a honest review if i don't have a clue what I'm reading so i went back and read it.
It started off pretty well and still i was looking forward to it but i don't know what changed but i found myself putting it down and having no interest to pick it back up.
Then there seemed to be a second half and it was like a completely different book.
I had to keep checking to make sure i was reading the same book, the names was the same but the story was like whoa.
I hate giving these sort of reviews and i have nothing against the author, maybe i just wasn't feeling the story?
Either way I'm still interested in giving the author and her work another chance.
❤
To me the blurb had me really interested but when i read it, i don't know if i was in a weird mood and just wasn't feeling it but i just couldn't get on with it.
I found myself skim reading and then regretting it because how can i give a honest review if i don't have a clue what I'm reading so i went back and read it.
It started off pretty well and still i was looking forward to it but i don't know what changed but i found myself putting it down and having no interest to pick it back up.
Then there seemed to be a second half and it was like a completely different book.
I had to keep checking to make sure i was reading the same book, the names was the same but the story was like whoa.
I hate giving these sort of reviews and i have nothing against the author, maybe i just wasn't feeling the story?
Either way I'm still interested in giving the author and her work another chance.
❤
Want to read
August 13, 2021
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Blurb:
One hot night with a devastatingly handsome stranger. That’s all it was supposed to be. So when my darkly domineering one-night stand turns out to be one of my instructors at Quantico, my life becomes far too complicated. I’m training as an FBI agent, but Jason has other forms of training in mind. Like bending me over his desk for a spanking.
I try to resist him, but soon we’re stealing forbidden hours of lust when no one’s watching. It could cost us both our careers, but I can’t help myself. He’s broken, and I want to be his salvation.
In return, he says he wants to protect me, to love me. But can he save me when my new job puts me directly in the path of danger?
Merged review:
→ Free for maybe a limited time. Grab your copy now! ←
→ Submit or subscribe to The DARK Newsletter! ←
Blurb:
One hot night with a devastatingly handsome stranger. That’s all it was supposed to be. So when my darkly domineering one-night stand turns out to be one of my instructors at Quantico, my life becomes far too complicated. I’m training as an FBI agent, but Jason has other forms of training in mind. Like bending me over his desk for a spanking.
I try to resist him, but soon we’re stealing forbidden hours of lust when no one’s watching. It could cost us both our careers, but I can’t help myself. He’s broken, and I want to be his salvation.
In return, he says he wants to protect me, to love me. But can he save me when my new job puts me directly in the path of danger?
July 30, 2020
more like all the stars in the sky is what this deserves. it’s really the way this left me curling my toes then had my face burning as tears just came endlessly and had my stomach turning over for natalie’s pain and then putting an euphoric smile on my face at end. this- i really have no words for this but thank u ange for pushing me to read this because wow was it srly worth it.
-i will probably come back to this later when i can actually process my thoughts and write a coherent review :)
-i will probably come back to this later when i can actually process my thoughts and write a coherent review :)
May 29, 2018
Dark Lessons by Julia Sykes
Narrated by Fred Blogs and Lauren Sweet
Standalone BDSM Suspense Romance
I had no idea what to expect with Dark Needs by Julia Sykes . I was just going through the list of Wicked Book Weekend authors and seeing which ones had audiobooks available. Since she was the sponsor of our BDSM demonstration, I knew her books were BDSM romance, but that was all I knew.
When I started Dark Lessons, honestly, I was very “meh” about it. It seemed to traditional and almost old fashioned, if that makes sense, for a contemporary. It seemed like everything a traditionally published BDSM book was 6 years ago. It felt predictable; an amazing one night of sex and the handsome stranger turns out to be her instructor for Natalie’s first day at Quantico for FBI training. It also seemed like a beginner BDSM book, explaining the reasoning behind the submission a bit.
"Natalie’s submission was as addictive as the drugs I’d abused. Just as addictive and equally as dangerous."
Jason was an agent who had a bad case that left him with some major PTSD causing him to become an addict. Add to that his abusive father was a high ranking official, and Jason was sent to Quantico to be a trainer until he cleaned up. Meeting Natalie was a complication he didn’t need, but one that brought out all of his dominant and protective instincts.
"She might not need rescuing, but that didn’t mean I wasn’t going to protect her."
Still, it was a pretty tame book. The sex scenes were very beginner BDSM, and again, I was just feeling meh.
And then HOLY SHIT. Is this the same book?
DANGER. ACTION. SUSPENSE. Holy cow, this book totally turned around! It was almost like two completely different books! It had a dark turn to it, and a lot of twists and turns that were a little tough to follow on audio, but still kept me riveted.
Likes:
•Well written.
•A completely surprising turn.
•The second half kept me riveted and my heart pounding.
•Good sexy times.
•Sometimes there was a well placed funny line that perfectly lightened an intense scene.
•I love a kickass heroine.
•The Jason Bourne type turn.
Dislikes:
•The whole 1-night stand ends up being your teacher trope is so freaking overdone.
•The BDSM and romantic relationship felt very BDSM 101. Like this should be your first foray into this genre.
•He was a very gentle dominant and everything and the emotions behind it were explained a little too much.
•The writing and terminology felt like a safe, traditionally published BDSM book from 2011 at first.
•The second half where the suspense began was a little tough to follow.
The Narration:
I enjoyed both narrators. While neither are my hands-down favorite, I really have no complaints either. The voices fit the characters, and I think this story is just as good in audible as it would be if I read it.
The Down & Dirty:
Dark Lessons by Julia Sykes started as a 3 star read for me. There was nothing wrong, it just felt safe and traditional. Then it totally changed on me and I’m so glad I stuck it out through all the crazy twists, turns and excitement. It was like 2 books in one: a traditional beginning BDSM romance and an exciting, suspenseful, military romance.. Julia is in the lifestyle in real life, so I liked that the BDSM elements were realistic and informative, but if you have read other well-known authors in the genre, this will feel like BDSM 101. All in all it turned out to be a unique and exciting read.
Rating: 4 Stars, 4.5 Heat, 4 Narration
Purchase Dark Lessons by Julia Sykes
August 6, 2019
Heart Pounding
I should be sleeping. Instead I am reading the book. OMG. There is a sinister force in this book. The way Jason and Natalie meet. Then meet again at Quantico. So much passion. So much suspense. So very twisted. Could not stop reading. From a Fan... Pam James
I should be sleeping. Instead I am reading the book. OMG. There is a sinister force in this book. The way Jason and Natalie meet. Then meet again at Quantico. So much passion. So much suspense. So very twisted. Could not stop reading. From a Fan... Pam James
Want to read
August 18, 2023💝FREE on Amazon today (5/25/2018)!💝
March 30, 2017
This book is a bit dark, so be prepared if you read it.
I loved Natalie, she is strong, capable, and relentless when it comes to her taking care of herself and not being manhandled by just anyone. She said to one man "the last man who touched me without my permission got his nose broken. Let me be clear I will report you for sexual harassment if you don't take your hand off me right now". This is one of the reasons her submission to Jason is such a great read. She doesn't have to submit to anyone, she chooses to submit to him. Had she been with someone more harsh and demanding this wouldn't have worked. Jason however while he is a dominate is in my opinion more "daddy" like. He want's to nurture her and take care of her while also demanding her submission but he did so gently.
You know at the end of part one when everything is roses that something bad is coming, and sure enough it did. I didn't waste time once I got to the bad part I didn't put it down because I wanted my HEA quickly. I am not going to give anything away, but I figured out Division 9C wasn't who they said they were early on. It was almost Jason Bourne ish. I will say I am glad a certain someone had their balls crushed by Jason. LOL.
This is not really a funny book, but it does have it's moments in the beginning there are moments when they are flirting that I found funny. However towards the end Jason's FBI partner makes a statement that had me absolutely rolling on the floor. When she finds Jason he is naked in a cell and he attacks her. "Get off me, OMG your naked. That's your penis on my chest". Then a few seconds after talking to her finding out where they are she says "Now can you please get your dick off my boobs? It's making me feel really weird and not in a good way". This part alone is worth reading the book it's so funny. Like I said not much humor, but it is placed at a strategic point when you need to lighten up a bit because it's really heavy at this point.
All in all I loved the book, the characters had depth and passion. I truly liked the fact that she wasn't a victim (in the beginning). I like that she helped him through his crap, and now he can help her through hers. Worth the read...and the sex scenes are really hot to boot!! Julia has a very good way of writing the bdsm genera of books. Her style is not so out there that it turns your stomach, and just enough out there that it's sexy as hell.
I loved Natalie, she is strong, capable, and relentless when it comes to her taking care of herself and not being manhandled by just anyone. She said to one man "the last man who touched me without my permission got his nose broken. Let me be clear I will report you for sexual harassment if you don't take your hand off me right now". This is one of the reasons her submission to Jason is such a great read. She doesn't have to submit to anyone, she chooses to submit to him. Had she been with someone more harsh and demanding this wouldn't have worked. Jason however while he is a dominate is in my opinion more "daddy" like. He want's to nurture her and take care of her while also demanding her submission but he did so gently.
You know at the end of part one when everything is roses that something bad is coming, and sure enough it did. I didn't waste time once I got to the bad part I didn't put it down because I wanted my HEA quickly. I am not going to give anything away, but I figured out Division 9C wasn't who they said they were early on. It was almost Jason Bourne ish. I will say I am glad a certain someone had their balls crushed by Jason. LOL.
This is not really a funny book, but it does have it's moments in the beginning there are moments when they are flirting that I found funny. However towards the end Jason's FBI partner makes a statement that had me absolutely rolling on the floor. When she finds Jason he is naked in a cell and he attacks her. "Get off me, OMG your naked. That's your penis on my chest". Then a few seconds after talking to her finding out where they are she says "Now can you please get your dick off my boobs? It's making me feel really weird and not in a good way". This part alone is worth reading the book it's so funny. Like I said not much humor, but it is placed at a strategic point when you need to lighten up a bit because it's really heavy at this point.
All in all I loved the book, the characters had depth and passion. I truly liked the fact that she wasn't a victim (in the beginning). I like that she helped him through his crap, and now he can help her through hers. Worth the read...and the sex scenes are really hot to boot!! Julia has a very good way of writing the bdsm genera of books. Her style is not so out there that it turns your stomach, and just enough out there that it's sexy as hell.
January 4, 2023
Well, I did stop this story at around 55% but it wasn't all bad.
I liked the pace, the main characters, the dialogue and interactions for the most part.
A few things struck me as odd though.
The hero had been physically abused by his father growing up. So he has a strong aversion to bullies, to guys forcing themselves on girls, guys abusing girls, etc. So he flips out in rage when he finds out his little lady love had been roughed up by another character in the story. His response? After physically kicking the perpetrator's ass, slamming his head in the pavement... he takes then take his lady love to a motel, and starts in on his BDSM fetish. And this nights act included striking her ass with his leather belt. And leaving red marks/welts. And causing her pain and tears. So.... he was pissed at another guy for punching his girlfriend and leaving bruises, yet its ok for him to whip her ass with a belt and leave welts.... as long as it gives him sexual pleasure? I found that wto be a little contradictory, but maybe I just don't fully understand the mechanics of BDSM. But for me, it wasn't enjoyable to read the girl get whipped and going thru such pain. So that's just me.
Another thing that I thought was strange... the hero did plenty of dirty talking, plenty of foreplay on her, but the actual sex act itself was always less than a sentence long before he was demanding her to come and then it was over. Lol, so ... tons of kinky talk and making out but the door was pretty much closed once they were actually having sex. Maybe it changed after my DNF point though.
Lastly, since theirs was a forbidden teacher/student love affair and they needed to be discreet... I found them to be careless idiots in how they met up. They were asking to be caught. Didn't lock his office door, met out in the open in the park on the jogging path, and then in the parking lot. Smh.
I kind of wanted to know how their career with the FBI would turn out, but the steamy scenes were just too uncomfortable for old me.
I liked the pace, the main characters, the dialogue and interactions for the most part.
A few things struck me as odd though.
The hero had been physically abused by his father growing up. So he has a strong aversion to bullies, to guys forcing themselves on girls, guys abusing girls, etc. So he flips out in rage when he finds out his little lady love had been roughed up by another character in the story. His response? After physically kicking the perpetrator's ass, slamming his head in the pavement... he takes then take his lady love to a motel, and starts in on his BDSM fetish. And this nights act included striking her ass with his leather belt. And leaving red marks/welts. And causing her pain and tears. So.... he was pissed at another guy for punching his girlfriend and leaving bruises, yet its ok for him to whip her ass with a belt and leave welts.... as long as it gives him sexual pleasure? I found that wto be a little contradictory, but maybe I just don't fully understand the mechanics of BDSM. But for me, it wasn't enjoyable to read the girl get whipped and going thru such pain. So that's just me.
Another thing that I thought was strange... the hero did plenty of dirty talking, plenty of foreplay on her, but the actual sex act itself was always less than a sentence long before he was demanding her to come and then it was over. Lol, so ... tons of kinky talk and making out but the door was pretty much closed once they were actually having sex. Maybe it changed after my DNF point though.
Lastly, since theirs was a forbidden teacher/student love affair and they needed to be discreet... I found them to be careless idiots in how they met up. They were asking to be caught. Didn't lock his office door, met out in the open in the park on the jogging path, and then in the parking lot. Smh.
I kind of wanted to know how their career with the FBI would turn out, but the steamy scenes were just too uncomfortable for old me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2017
Dark Lessons is a book that will suck you in and keep you hooked. It has so many dark twists and turns, that you don’t know if you’re coming or going.
We start with Natalie who is following her dream of becoming an FBI agent at Quantico who then has this one night stand with a hot hunk named Jason who she finds out is her instructor at Quantico. Thing is Jason was FBI and was demoted to Quantico because he is fighting his demons and his father is some super high ranking official who gets him sent there to teach new recruits. Anyway, they have this one night stand never realizing they would meet up again …
Natalie starts her training for the FBI & Jason is her new instructor. Besides Jason being a former FBI agent and a Quantico instructor, he is also into BDSM. He wants Natalie and he wants her submission. Their relationship starts and its forbidden yet its oh so good…you think everything is going great but then I got the feeling something bad was coming because everything was great between them and when the bad hit, it was BAD. I don’t want to give spoilers away but Division 9C is not who they claim to be and I would run far far away if they came anywhere near me and mine!! It kind of reminded me of that tv show The Pretender from the 90s. Division 9C are the bad guys. All I can say is Poor Natalie and Poor Jason…
This is not a man meets woman and they fall in love and they live happily ever after. There is angst, pain, despair, dark—very very dark matter and intense emotional scenes. BUT there is redemption and there is joy and passion, some fantastic BDSM scenes. Be prepared for some dark twists and turns. At the end of the story, there is a look at the next story with the darkness that is still around. I hope there will the answers that I didn’t see come out in this book, so hopefully it will come out in book 2.
My rating: 4.5 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
We start with Natalie who is following her dream of becoming an FBI agent at Quantico who then has this one night stand with a hot hunk named Jason who she finds out is her instructor at Quantico. Thing is Jason was FBI and was demoted to Quantico because he is fighting his demons and his father is some super high ranking official who gets him sent there to teach new recruits. Anyway, they have this one night stand never realizing they would meet up again …
Natalie starts her training for the FBI & Jason is her new instructor. Besides Jason being a former FBI agent and a Quantico instructor, he is also into BDSM. He wants Natalie and he wants her submission. Their relationship starts and its forbidden yet its oh so good…you think everything is going great but then I got the feeling something bad was coming because everything was great between them and when the bad hit, it was BAD. I don’t want to give spoilers away but Division 9C is not who they claim to be and I would run far far away if they came anywhere near me and mine!! It kind of reminded me of that tv show The Pretender from the 90s. Division 9C are the bad guys. All I can say is Poor Natalie and Poor Jason…
This is not a man meets woman and they fall in love and they live happily ever after. There is angst, pain, despair, dark—very very dark matter and intense emotional scenes. BUT there is redemption and there is joy and passion, some fantastic BDSM scenes. Be prepared for some dark twists and turns. At the end of the story, there is a look at the next story with the darkness that is still around. I hope there will the answers that I didn’t see come out in this book, so hopefully it will come out in book 2.
My rating: 4.5 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
March 30, 2017
*There are no spoilers in my review.*
*This book can be read as a standalone, but as a superfan of this world, my recommendation is to read ALL of the Impossible books and novellas to best appreciate all of the characters and the relationships.*
*Trigger warning* I don't normally need one. I laugh in the face of trigger warnings. The way Sykes writes panic attacks made me pant several times. I had to put the book down a few times to avoid having one just because of the empathy I felt for these characters.
This book is very dark. Holy-freaking-dark. Not this author's darkest work necessarily but definitely in the top 2 or 3 (depending on the reader). I cried and had to walk away for a moment, twice.
There are twists and surprises around every corner. And that, partnered with the intense emotional scenes, drives the reader to a nail biting or pack-smoking experience. The plot moves quickly, literally no time to be bored whatsoever. I felt more pain for Jason and Natalie than I've probably ever felt for any of Sykes' couples.
As always, the erotica is great. This is the darkest BDSM relationship than we've seen from this author where the Dom isn't a bad guy-a villain.
At the end of the story, we get a sneak peek into the evil driving the next story and also what I hope gets resolved in the next story. I truly hope. I can't wait to see how it all unfolds.
*This book can be read as a standalone, but as a superfan of this world, my recommendation is to read ALL of the Impossible books and novellas to best appreciate all of the characters and the relationships.*
*Trigger warning* I don't normally need one. I laugh in the face of trigger warnings. The way Sykes writes panic attacks made me pant several times. I had to put the book down a few times to avoid having one just because of the empathy I felt for these characters.
This book is very dark. Holy-freaking-dark. Not this author's darkest work necessarily but definitely in the top 2 or 3 (depending on the reader). I cried and had to walk away for a moment, twice.
There are twists and surprises around every corner. And that, partnered with the intense emotional scenes, drives the reader to a nail biting or pack-smoking experience. The plot moves quickly, literally no time to be bored whatsoever. I felt more pain for Jason and Natalie than I've probably ever felt for any of Sykes' couples.
As always, the erotica is great. This is the darkest BDSM relationship than we've seen from this author where the Dom isn't a bad guy-a villain.
At the end of the story, we get a sneak peek into the evil driving the next story and also what I hope gets resolved in the next story. I truly hope. I can't wait to see how it all unfolds.
March 29, 2017
Dark Lessons starts off strong and sexy, and it just keeps getting more intense from there. Jason and Natalie have one electric night together and that's all it can ever be. Natalie is starting the next chapter of her life, and Jason is just looking for a fresh start, but can't catch a break.
This book caught my attention from the first page and didn't let up. The story is told in parts, giving a little bit of a jumpy feel. The storyline is sexy, twisty, and made me very curious to read more with this cast of characters.
*4.5 star review
*Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads*
This book caught my attention from the first page and didn't let up. The story is told in parts, giving a little bit of a jumpy feel. The storyline is sexy, twisty, and made me very curious to read more with this cast of characters.
*4.5 star review
*Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads*
March 24, 2017
Ok So we have Jason he is a FBI Agent that is Suffering from PTSD. He is sent to Train new agents when he meets Natalie. They Bond almost instantly. The attraction is so Hot Between them. He is a Very Broken but Sweet Dom. She is new to the world of BDSM. She is So Tough and Feisty . But she is the perfect Sub for him. They just Melt for each other. She is so Supports him so much and he becomes strong again. They love each other Hard. But then there is Twist in the story , Tragedy and Action. I don't want to give to much away, but it was just so good. I Devoured this story . I can not wait for the next one.
April 3, 2017
Well, this book didn't go anywhere near where I thought it would. I was pretty pissed off for about 3 or 4 minutes. I kept checking how much in the book I had left. I was thrilled with the ending for two reasons. One, Jason got what he deserved and two, the into to a new book was laid. Now, this is "stand alone" in that you could stop reading after this one but who in their right mind would?! The book does have closure but hints at the next one. I'm so excited to read Sam's story!
April 5, 2017
This book was AMAZING!!!!!! I love anything Julia writes but Jason & Natalie are the hottest couple ever! This book was exciting from beginning to end with some unexpected surprises along the way. And the ending has me so ready for Sam's book. I highly recommend this book right along with anything else Julia has written.
March 24, 2017
OMG, Seriously will keep you so on the edge throughout this story! So intense, exciting, when it involves Chicago and those FBI bunch one never knows where it will lead. Jason struggles with his memories from his time in the military, PTSD, now dealing with being in the field as an FBI agent. New recruits at the academy, and time for Jason to deal with his past. Get ready, so much you won't see coming, shocking, devastating, heartbreaking, awesome story! Great writing, Enjoy reading!
Read
April 18, 2020DNF at 43%
This was a weird case of 'intriguing premise' -> 'terrible execution'.
The story and character arcs had soooo much potential and I would've kept going if not for the painfully mediocre writing, riddled with cliches and bad dialogue. What a shame.
This was a weird case of 'intriguing premise' -> 'terrible execution'.
The story and character arcs had soooo much potential and I would've kept going if not for the painfully mediocre writing, riddled with cliches and bad dialogue. What a shame.
June 17, 2022
I read this book in 2 days I couldn't put it down it's definitely a must read unfortunately I'm not sure where I got it but they did give it to me free so I'd like to say thank you to whatever group I was in that gave this book to me and if I remember who it is I will update this post
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