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Empire Sin #2
Envy
Releasing August 10th, 2017. Second in a series of standalones inspired by the seven deadly sins. Sin: envy.
Then envy came along,
Singing its pretty, jealous little song.
There were two sisters once upon a time,
But only one will be there for showtime.
The younger stole the eldest's life,
She's going to be her lover's wife.
Better let that envy go,
Your sister's man won't take things slow.
You'll regret your petty choice,
Pretty birds only sing while they still have a voice...
Then envy came along,
Singing its pretty, jealous little song.
There were two sisters once upon a time,
But only one will be there for showtime.
The younger stole the eldest's life,
She's going to be her lover's wife.
Better let that envy go,
Your sister's man won't take things slow.
You'll regret your petty choice,
Pretty birds only sing while they still have a voice...
250 pages, ebook
First published August 10, 2017
134 people are currently reading
738 people want to read
About the author
Isabella Starling
103 books2,652 followersUSA Today bestselling author Isabella Starling describes her books with three words: dark, dirty and forbidden.
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CHECK OUT MY INSTAGRAM!
https://www.instagram.com/authorisabe...
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
https://amzn.to/3lhl4R5
VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/authorisabel...
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER!
https://twitter.com/authorstarling
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER!
https://subscribepage.com/isabellasta...
And don't forget to join my Facebook group Good Girls Love Bad Boys to be the first to see my new covers, receive ARC opportunities & connect with myself and other readers! We do tons of giveaways and author takeovers too.
Click on the pic below to join!
CHECK OUT MY INSTAGRAM!
https://www.instagram.com/authorisabe...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
September 9, 2017
This is a dark story about Lucy & her envy of her older sister, Charli. All Charli ever wanted was a better life for her & especially her younger sister. When Charli goes missing, Lucy decides to step in & take her place at Empire Sin. Beau Wolfe is a very wealthy lawyer who does as he likes, representing scumbag clients fighting for their freedom. When he meets Charli at Empire Sin he cannot get her off his mind. After trying to forgetting her for a week, he calls & makes arrangements to have her brought to him. What Beau doesn't know is it isn't Charli who is brought to him, but Lucy. Beau is conflicted by how Lucy acts because it is so different from what he experienced the night he met Charli. Things don't go as Lucy imagined they would but eventually Beau gives into his desire for her. What unfolds is a tale about how they each grow to trust each other enough to share their stories. Lucy's story leads them to looking for Charli & the under belly of some seriously demented criminal activity.
I've read many of Isabella Starling's earlier books & have enjoyed all of them. This story is darker & full of possible triggers. It should be read with caution if you are easily bothered by sexual violence. With that said, Isabella delivers a believable story about coming to terms with a deep jealousy that provokes hate. Both Beau & Lucy must over come pasts that have left them scarred emotionally & in Beau's case physically. They come to build a relationship together that allows them both to have a life neither of them ever expected.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
I've read many of Isabella Starling's earlier books & have enjoyed all of them. This story is darker & full of possible triggers. It should be read with caution if you are easily bothered by sexual violence. With that said, Isabella delivers a believable story about coming to terms with a deep jealousy that provokes hate. Both Beau & Lucy must over come pasts that have left them scarred emotionally & in Beau's case physically. They come to build a relationship together that allows them both to have a life neither of them ever expected.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
September 12, 2017
Second book in the series about the seven sins. This one is about envy.
Lucy has always been jealous of her sister, Charli. Her sister had everything that she wanted. She was always living her sister's shadow. Then when an opportunity presented itself, Lucy took it. She become Charli, and in doing so she has to become Beau's plaything. Though, soon she realizes that Beau isn't easy to wrap around her little finger.
Lucy has everything she ever wanted and everything that her sister had, but she starts to realize that things aren't as they appeared like they seemed. Will it be too late to have a relationship with her sister once she discovers the truth?
The story is good. It dark with a bit of mystery and suspense. I like the twist and turns. However, I didn't feel the connection between Lucy and Beau, and this important because of the kind of sex they have; violent and rough. It took me half way through the book to get into the story and care a bit about the characters. I think I was more interested in Charli and the mystery that surrounded her. The ending fell slightly short. I felt like there was more to the story; the loose ends weren't completely tied. I'm hoping that a certain character will be in one of next books of the series.
3.25 stars
**I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book**
Lucy has always been jealous of her sister, Charli. Her sister had everything that she wanted. She was always living her sister's shadow. Then when an opportunity presented itself, Lucy took it. She become Charli, and in doing so she has to become Beau's plaything. Though, soon she realizes that Beau isn't easy to wrap around her little finger.
Lucy has everything she ever wanted and everything that her sister had, but she starts to realize that things aren't as they appeared like they seemed. Will it be too late to have a relationship with her sister once she discovers the truth?
The story is good. It dark with a bit of mystery and suspense. I like the twist and turns. However, I didn't feel the connection between Lucy and Beau, and this important because of the kind of sex they have; violent and rough. It took me half way through the book to get into the story and care a bit about the characters. I think I was more interested in Charli and the mystery that surrounded her. The ending fell slightly short. I felt like there was more to the story; the loose ends weren't completely tied. I'm hoping that a certain character will be in one of next books of the series.
3.25 stars
**I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book**
September 4, 2017
Beau and Lucy were definitely an Isabella Starling couple that did not disappoint. Lucy’s reasoning and character depth was beyond fascinating. I loved the switch in behavior and the way she justified her mental psyche. Beau was oh so beyond alpha with dark sexual appetite you would expect from Isabella Starling. From the twisted plot to the characters’ dark needs and wants, this was definitely a great read!
September 5, 2017
I've not read the first book in this series but this is a standalone so you'll be fine if you haven't either.
There is no getting away from the fact that Lucy is a spoilt brat and it's a role she plays perfectly. When we first meet her I wanted to give her a slap for her entitled bitter attitude but she was a character who slowly grew on me.
Now Beau I wasn't sure whether to hug him or knock him out, he's an infuriating complex character that had me so conflicted. His mood flips so quickly from brutal man to tender lover and like Lucy I wasn't sure which one we were going to get.
This was a story that has darker sexual themes and I felt that a couple of the sex scenes felt out of sync with the story but it was an enjoyable read.
There is no getting away from the fact that Lucy is a spoilt brat and it's a role she plays perfectly. When we first meet her I wanted to give her a slap for her entitled bitter attitude but she was a character who slowly grew on me.
Now Beau I wasn't sure whether to hug him or knock him out, he's an infuriating complex character that had me so conflicted. His mood flips so quickly from brutal man to tender lover and like Lucy I wasn't sure which one we were going to get.
This was a story that has darker sexual themes and I felt that a couple of the sex scenes felt out of sync with the story but it was an enjoyable read.
November 12, 2018
5 beautifully twisted, wonderfully dark and oh so yummy stars!!!!
Lucy is an 18 year old bratty, foul-mouthed, entitled little b*tch. She believed that since she had to grow up dirt poor and live in the shadow of her beautiful older sister, Charli, everyone owed her something. She doesn't want to work for anything and expects everyone else to just give her anything and everything she wants. On the day of Lucy's 18th birthday her sister never comes home. Lucy hates her sister so much she just doesn't care that her sister didn't come home. She figures Charli got tired of taking care of her and left. When someone calls looking for Lolita, Lucy decides she is going to pretend to be Lolita and she finds out that this is the name her sister goes by while she works at Empire Sin, a high class gambling and call girl establishment.
Beau is a beautifully scarred man, who takes no sh*t from anyone and whose tastes for a different kind of sexual encounter make it hard for him to find someone to share his dark desires with. He goes to Empire Sin to find a woman to play with, Charli is sent to dance for him and he is captivated by her but she gets scared of his scarred face and runs away from him before he ever gets a chance to taste her.Beau has wanted Charli since she ran from him and so Empire Sin delivers Lucy to him because she looks so much like her sister and she told them she was Lolita (Charli). Beau feels like the woman in front of him is different some how, she seems a lot less scared of him and since he didn't get to close to Charli, he doesn't realize that Lucy is not Charli. Beau's needs are dark, twisted and can sometimes be painful and he needs a woman who can handle the pain he gives and even finds pleasure in it. Lucky for Lucy she actually thrives on the pain Beau inflicts and she even craves everything he gives her. Lucy can't let Beau find out she is not Charli because someone is threatening her and her sister. So she does everything she can to keep up the charade.
What will happen if Beau finds Lucy isn't Charli? Who is threatening Lucy and why can't she tell Beau? Will Lucy ever find out what happened to her sister? Does she even care? Where does Beau fit in to all of this? To find out the answers to these questions and more, grab this beautifully twisted, dark, and oh so deliciously chilling book today.
I want to live in the beautifully, twisted, dark mind of this awesome author. Everything she writes is so unique and never fails to grab you and drag you through every savagely sordid detail and you'll love every freaking minute of it.
Lucy is an 18 year old bratty, foul-mouthed, entitled little b*tch. She believed that since she had to grow up dirt poor and live in the shadow of her beautiful older sister, Charli, everyone owed her something. She doesn't want to work for anything and expects everyone else to just give her anything and everything she wants. On the day of Lucy's 18th birthday her sister never comes home. Lucy hates her sister so much she just doesn't care that her sister didn't come home. She figures Charli got tired of taking care of her and left. When someone calls looking for Lolita, Lucy decides she is going to pretend to be Lolita and she finds out that this is the name her sister goes by while she works at Empire Sin, a high class gambling and call girl establishment.
Beau is a beautifully scarred man, who takes no sh*t from anyone and whose tastes for a different kind of sexual encounter make it hard for him to find someone to share his dark desires with. He goes to Empire Sin to find a woman to play with, Charli is sent to dance for him and he is captivated by her but she gets scared of his scarred face and runs away from him before he ever gets a chance to taste her.Beau has wanted Charli since she ran from him and so Empire Sin delivers Lucy to him because she looks so much like her sister and she told them she was Lolita (Charli). Beau feels like the woman in front of him is different some how, she seems a lot less scared of him and since he didn't get to close to Charli, he doesn't realize that Lucy is not Charli. Beau's needs are dark, twisted and can sometimes be painful and he needs a woman who can handle the pain he gives and even finds pleasure in it. Lucky for Lucy she actually thrives on the pain Beau inflicts and she even craves everything he gives her. Lucy can't let Beau find out she is not Charli because someone is threatening her and her sister. So she does everything she can to keep up the charade.
What will happen if Beau finds Lucy isn't Charli? Who is threatening Lucy and why can't she tell Beau? Will Lucy ever find out what happened to her sister? Does she even care? Where does Beau fit in to all of this? To find out the answers to these questions and more, grab this beautifully twisted, dark, and oh so deliciously chilling book today.
I want to live in the beautifully, twisted, dark mind of this awesome author. Everything she writes is so unique and never fails to grab you and drag you through every savagely sordid detail and you'll love every freaking minute of it.
September 7, 2017
4 unexpected stars
I'm an everlasting fan of Isabella Starling's and look forward to finding out what she'll unleash on her readers under her Isabella Darling pen name. i love the fact that her Doms are dark, the subs more than capable of embracing the dark natures of these men, and her stories are some of the darkest that i'll read when it comes to this genre. She doesn't cut corners or try to downplay some of the dark nature that some have inside of themselves.
4.5 sexy dreams
There's no denying it: the Empire SIn series if just as hot as any of her previous standalones, and the suspense at finding out the fate of the characters more than a little nerve racking. Envy was, in my opinion, so much better than Vengeance, the flow more easy and the secondary characters making me stand up in attention more than once. My only hold up: while i thought that Beau would finally succumb to his own dark nature, he only turned out to be more of a softie underneath the harsher exterior. That being said, i still really liked this story and can't wait to find out what's to happen to this series and this author's next novel.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
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October 12, 2017
If there's an author that can make me curious and anxious as hell about her books is this girl right here. Her words are so powerful that can make my legs shaking and my heart racing. Jeez... What this woman do to me...
Isabella Startling is the person to guilt for this and I really love her for it.
Her writing is not only sexy as hell but also forbidden, intense, raw and dark.
Every single book that I've read just made me an addict...
Envy is her latest release and tells the stories of Lucy and Beau. This book is the second book from the Empire Sin series and I totally recommend you to read the first book too.
Lucy has only one goal, to find her sister and setting her free, but to be able to do so she needs money... So much money that she decides to take her sister's place and sell herself in sex slavery for one million dollars.
Beau is a criminal defense lawyer that works for the Empire Sin. He has given his heart to one person but that ended terribly since his lover was killed and he got his face ruined. After this events he just wants raw sex without emotions or attachments.
If if thought that this was going to be a dark and powerful reading I was wrong... It was so much more. I'm still shaking from the intensity of it.
The plot is spectacular and the interaction between the characters is intense, raw, dirty and super hot.
The story progressed in a way that left me anxious, nervous, jumpy you name it. I wanted to read and read non stop to see what was about to happen.
I'm speechless, overwhelmed, anxious but also so happy for this chance.
Ahem... The hot scenes are freaking amazing and will leave you in the need of a very cold shower...
Dayum Isabella... You are amazing and because of that you are able to create masterpieces.
What's that brilliant mind of yours creating next?? It doesn't matter because I will read it for sure.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Isabella Startling is the person to guilt for this and I really love her for it.
Her writing is not only sexy as hell but also forbidden, intense, raw and dark.
Every single book that I've read just made me an addict...
Envy is her latest release and tells the stories of Lucy and Beau. This book is the second book from the Empire Sin series and I totally recommend you to read the first book too.
Lucy has only one goal, to find her sister and setting her free, but to be able to do so she needs money... So much money that she decides to take her sister's place and sell herself in sex slavery for one million dollars.
Beau is a criminal defense lawyer that works for the Empire Sin. He has given his heart to one person but that ended terribly since his lover was killed and he got his face ruined. After this events he just wants raw sex without emotions or attachments.
If if thought that this was going to be a dark and powerful reading I was wrong... It was so much more. I'm still shaking from the intensity of it.
The plot is spectacular and the interaction between the characters is intense, raw, dirty and super hot.
The story progressed in a way that left me anxious, nervous, jumpy you name it. I wanted to read and read non stop to see what was about to happen.
I'm speechless, overwhelmed, anxious but also so happy for this chance.
Ahem... The hot scenes are freaking amazing and will leave you in the need of a very cold shower...
Dayum Isabella... You are amazing and because of that you are able to create masterpieces.
What's that brilliant mind of yours creating next?? It doesn't matter because I will read it for sure.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 12, 2017
If there's an author that can make me curious and anxious as hell about her books is this girl right here. Her words are so powerful that can make my legs shaking and my heart racing. Jeez... What this woman do to me...
Isabella Startling is the person to guilt for this and I really love her for it.
Her writing is not only sexy as hell but also forbidden, intense, raw and dark.
Every single book that I've read just made me an addict...
Envy is her latest release and tells the stories of Lucy and Beau. This book is the second book from the Empire Sin series and I totally recommend you to read the first book too.
Lucy has only one goal, to find her sister and setting her free, but to be able to do so she needs money... So much money that she decides to take her sister's place and sell herself in sex slavery for one million dollars.
Beau is a criminal defense lawyer that works for the Empire Sin. He has given his heart to one person but that ended terribly since his lover was killed and he got his face ruined. After this events he just wants raw sex without emotions or attachments.
If if thought that this was going to be a dark and powerful reading I was wrong... It was so much more. I'm still shaking from the intensity of it.
The plot is spectacular and the interaction between the characters is intense, raw, dirty and super hot.
The story progressed in a way that left me anxious, nervous, jumpy you name it. I wanted to read and read non stop to see what was about to happen.
I'm speechless, overwhelmed, anxious but also so happy for this chance.
Ahem... The hot scenes are freaking amazing and will leave you in the need of a very cold shower...
Dayum Isabella... You are amazing and because of that you are able to create masterpieces.
What's that brilliant mind of yours creating next?? It doesn't matter because I will read it for sure.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Isabella Startling is the person to guilt for this and I really love her for it.
Her writing is not only sexy as hell but also forbidden, intense, raw and dark.
Every single book that I've read just made me an addict...
Envy is her latest release and tells the stories of Lucy and Beau. This book is the second book from the Empire Sin series and I totally recommend you to read the first book too.
Lucy has only one goal, to find her sister and setting her free, but to be able to do so she needs money... So much money that she decides to take her sister's place and sell herself in sex slavery for one million dollars.
Beau is a criminal defense lawyer that works for the Empire Sin. He has given his heart to one person but that ended terribly since his lover was killed and he got his face ruined. After this events he just wants raw sex without emotions or attachments.
If if thought that this was going to be a dark and powerful reading I was wrong... It was so much more. I'm still shaking from the intensity of it.
The plot is spectacular and the interaction between the characters is intense, raw, dirty and super hot.
The story progressed in a way that left me anxious, nervous, jumpy you name it. I wanted to read and read non stop to see what was about to happen.
I'm speechless, overwhelmed, anxious but also so happy for this chance.
Ahem... The hot scenes are freaking amazing and will leave you in the need of a very cold shower...
Dayum Isabella... You are amazing and because of that you are able to create masterpieces.
What's that brilliant mind of yours creating next?? It doesn't matter because I will read it for sure.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 8, 2017
Isabella Starling has a way to her storytelling that keeps you turning the pages until the very end!!
Envy is one of those books!!
Phenomenal from beginning to end!!
Beau and Lucy are just...WOW!!!
Beau is a scared man, but beautiful nonetheless!! He is who is and takes no crap from anyone.
A complete alpha with a unique sexual appetite!!
After one brief encounter with a woman at Empire Sin he wants her and does everything in his power to get her.
Lucy is a 18 brat who thinks she deserves everything after living in the shadows of her sister Charli. On the day of her birthday her sister is gone. Never coming home. She thinks Charli doesn't care and left. Then someone calls. They are looking for Lolita. Lucy decides to be Lolita and find out about Empire Sin.
Don't want to give too much away, but Beau and Lucy are explosive!!!
Lucy is hiding who she is from Beau!! She doesn't want him to find out the truth. She is being threatened!! She does everything in her power to keep this secret.
Things unravel!! Beau pieces everything together.
Their relationship is a dark one!! It is totally unique!!
They work together to find Charli!! Beau will help his Babydoll find her sister!! Even infiltrate the Georgian Mob!!
This story has your heart pounding!! Many twists and turns!! So much dark, delicious yumminess!! Absolutely freaking amazing!!
The ending....amazing!!!
Would highly recommend!!
Envy is one of those books!!
Phenomenal from beginning to end!!
Beau and Lucy are just...WOW!!!
Beau is a scared man, but beautiful nonetheless!! He is who is and takes no crap from anyone.
A complete alpha with a unique sexual appetite!!
After one brief encounter with a woman at Empire Sin he wants her and does everything in his power to get her.
Lucy is a 18 brat who thinks she deserves everything after living in the shadows of her sister Charli. On the day of her birthday her sister is gone. Never coming home. She thinks Charli doesn't care and left. Then someone calls. They are looking for Lolita. Lucy decides to be Lolita and find out about Empire Sin.
Don't want to give too much away, but Beau and Lucy are explosive!!!
Lucy is hiding who she is from Beau!! She doesn't want him to find out the truth. She is being threatened!! She does everything in her power to keep this secret.
Things unravel!! Beau pieces everything together.
Their relationship is a dark one!! It is totally unique!!
They work together to find Charli!! Beau will help his Babydoll find her sister!! Even infiltrate the Georgian Mob!!
This story has your heart pounding!! Many twists and turns!! So much dark, delicious yumminess!! Absolutely freaking amazing!!
The ending....amazing!!!
Would highly recommend!!
September 2, 2017
Do you crave a dark romance? Lady Starling has cooked a dirty, really dark dish that will delight your twisted taste buds!
Empire Sin caters to rich men's devious desires, so for the right amount of money one of them will get to have innocent Charlotte. The plot takes a turn there when scarred Beau meets the dancing enchantress. Bad debts, a naughty sister and a contract that goes awry with brutal acts, obsession, secrets and all kinds of mistaken envy.
These characters share their time in very unhealthy ways. They hate and crave each other with equal force. From brat to pain seeker, this crazy chick submits to every wanton act of dominance her buyer demands from her. Watch out for brutish intimacy, and some tender feelings of protectiveness from other evil monsters out there.
When they start working their differences together, the scenes than ensue are filled with angry bed time, very bad people, a plan to outmaneuver them, and public humiliation. It's a war to get their goals, and it's a war between them that they fight with teeth, anger, and words.
As dark and sinful as it is, it had to end with a bang of blood, action, and bittersweet happiness. Not easy to forget, that's for sure! :-D
Empire Sin caters to rich men's devious desires, so for the right amount of money one of them will get to have innocent Charlotte. The plot takes a turn there when scarred Beau meets the dancing enchantress. Bad debts, a naughty sister and a contract that goes awry with brutal acts, obsession, secrets and all kinds of mistaken envy.
These characters share their time in very unhealthy ways. They hate and crave each other with equal force. From brat to pain seeker, this crazy chick submits to every wanton act of dominance her buyer demands from her. Watch out for brutish intimacy, and some tender feelings of protectiveness from other evil monsters out there.
When they start working their differences together, the scenes than ensue are filled with angry bed time, very bad people, a plan to outmaneuver them, and public humiliation. It's a war to get their goals, and it's a war between them that they fight with teeth, anger, and words.
As dark and sinful as it is, it had to end with a bang of blood, action, and bittersweet happiness. Not easy to forget, that's for sure! :-D
September 12, 2017
Holy F**k!!!!
Isabella never disappoints me..I'm loving this series so far Scary scarred Beau and his babydoll are fantastic characters..dark,sexy and twisted greatness..
Isabella never disappoints me..I'm loving this series so far Scary scarred Beau and his babydoll are fantastic characters..dark,sexy and twisted greatness..
September 8, 2017
I was gifted an ARC of Envy by Isabella Starling in exchange for an honest review.
Envy by Isabella Starling certainly reflects its title. It's all about desiring what someone else has, and obtaining that person's possessions, qualities, or luck through any means necessary. It's also about power, control, and wanting more. Isabella does an excellent job bringing this theme to life, seeing how it plays out through the story and with the characters within the story. I got addicted from the start, loving the way Ms. Starling has a natural talent for catching her readers’ attention with a well-placed word.
When we first meet Lucy, she is entitled, bratty and sexually alluring, dominant, and believes everyone in the world owes her things, particularly men. She's envious of her older sister, almost to the point that she hates her older sister's guts and wants everything her sister has. Lucy's willing to do just about anything to have money, power, and control. Pretending to be her older sister in order to go after a powerful man, Beau is only just one of her objectives.
Beau is a very powerful man with an endless bank account, a scarred beautiful face, and one who harbors a dark side. His past and scar made him into the man he is today. He wants Lucy automatically, believing she's someone else at first. He's enraged as well as turned on at Lucy's lack of manners and bitchy behavior. He wants to control her, to possess her, and teach her some manners.
Lucy is under the assumption that she's fooling Beau. She think she's in complete control of their relationship, but she has no idea just how very wrong she is. She finally meets her match in Beau. She challenges him as much as he challenges her. He's not afraid to hurt her, knowing that she craves the pleasure mixed with the pain as much as he does.
Lucy and Beau are one twisted and kinky couple and Isabella Starling writes it so beautifully. Readers you're in for a treat with this latest book by Ms. Starling. You're going to feel insane for loving the characters of Beau and Lucy so much. I also enjoyed the fact that we, the readers are given insight into the reasons why Lucy feels so envious, particularly when it comes to her older sister, Charli. I also loved the fact that we learned more intimate details about Beau and his past.
Envy by Isabella Starling gets a five star rating⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐! The ending gave me life and I believe their future endeavors suits them perfectly. However, I'll keep my suspicion about Charli to myself lol. And I can't wait to read Rhys's story next in the Empire Sin series.
Envy by Isabella Starling certainly reflects its title. It's all about desiring what someone else has, and obtaining that person's possessions, qualities, or luck through any means necessary. It's also about power, control, and wanting more. Isabella does an excellent job bringing this theme to life, seeing how it plays out through the story and with the characters within the story. I got addicted from the start, loving the way Ms. Starling has a natural talent for catching her readers’ attention with a well-placed word.
When we first meet Lucy, she is entitled, bratty and sexually alluring, dominant, and believes everyone in the world owes her things, particularly men. She's envious of her older sister, almost to the point that she hates her older sister's guts and wants everything her sister has. Lucy's willing to do just about anything to have money, power, and control. Pretending to be her older sister in order to go after a powerful man, Beau is only just one of her objectives.
Beau is a very powerful man with an endless bank account, a scarred beautiful face, and one who harbors a dark side. His past and scar made him into the man he is today. He wants Lucy automatically, believing she's someone else at first. He's enraged as well as turned on at Lucy's lack of manners and bitchy behavior. He wants to control her, to possess her, and teach her some manners.
Lucy is under the assumption that she's fooling Beau. She think she's in complete control of their relationship, but she has no idea just how very wrong she is. She finally meets her match in Beau. She challenges him as much as he challenges her. He's not afraid to hurt her, knowing that she craves the pleasure mixed with the pain as much as he does.
Lucy and Beau are one twisted and kinky couple and Isabella Starling writes it so beautifully. Readers you're in for a treat with this latest book by Ms. Starling. You're going to feel insane for loving the characters of Beau and Lucy so much. I also enjoyed the fact that we, the readers are given insight into the reasons why Lucy feels so envious, particularly when it comes to her older sister, Charli. I also loved the fact that we learned more intimate details about Beau and his past.
Envy by Isabella Starling gets a five star rating⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐! The ending gave me life and I believe their future endeavors suits them perfectly. However, I'll keep my suspicion about Charli to myself lol. And I can't wait to read Rhys's story next in the Empire Sin series.
September 6, 2017
This is the second book recently that I’ve seen the teasers and thought nope, this book is not for me, it’s going to be too dark. Annnnd I was wrong, again! I’m not going to sit here and tell you this is my favourite book from Isabella Starling, because Pet still holds that title, however, it is right up there, in the top 5 to be sure.
Envy took me through the wringer. I didn’t know whether I was coming or going….in a good way. Did I like Beau? Did I hate him? Oh crap, maybe I’m in love. I just couldn’t decide. Here is what I did know, I freaking adored Lucy. She was a spitfire and just what Beau needed, really, they needed each other. I loved how that came together, that realisation. The protectiveness Beau showed early on. How Lucy held her own, even in scary situations, she was a fighter with a vulnerable side. I think a lot of people will identify with that, I know I did.
Isabella Starling is so good at making you believe one thing is happening and then totally changing it around and surprising you with something completely different. She did this more than once with this book, she totally nailed it. I know that is vague, but I don’t want to spoil anything. One of the key moments for this book I think was when they go to a poker night and the things that happen there and the revelation afterwards…vague again, but when you read it you’ll know what I mean. I think that scene just cemented these characters and the type of people they are. The trust Lucy had in Beau, and the care he had for her and the type of man he actually is. I thought the entire storyline for this book was incredible and really kept you guessing.
I love the way that Isabella writes, she has a point or a reason for everything, nothing is filler, which personally, I love. Her characters are always so interesting and grab your attention. And sometimes your heart…ok, maybe always.
Let’s talk a second about the cover, I think it’s great but I didn’t understand the hand over the face thing, what on earth? (I know, I know...don’t shoot me!) But it is actually PERFECT for the story, it complements the story so perfectly that I couldn’t imagine a better cover. That’ll teach me to not have faith in Isabella!
Envy (previously titled Malice) is book 2 in the Empire Sin series and can be read as a standalone.
Warning: This is a dark romance, you need to know that going in but I think it will surprise you, it sure did me.
Envy took me through the wringer. I didn’t know whether I was coming or going….in a good way. Did I like Beau? Did I hate him? Oh crap, maybe I’m in love. I just couldn’t decide. Here is what I did know, I freaking adored Lucy. She was a spitfire and just what Beau needed, really, they needed each other. I loved how that came together, that realisation. The protectiveness Beau showed early on. How Lucy held her own, even in scary situations, she was a fighter with a vulnerable side. I think a lot of people will identify with that, I know I did.
Isabella Starling is so good at making you believe one thing is happening and then totally changing it around and surprising you with something completely different. She did this more than once with this book, she totally nailed it. I know that is vague, but I don’t want to spoil anything. One of the key moments for this book I think was when they go to a poker night and the things that happen there and the revelation afterwards…vague again, but when you read it you’ll know what I mean. I think that scene just cemented these characters and the type of people they are. The trust Lucy had in Beau, and the care he had for her and the type of man he actually is. I thought the entire storyline for this book was incredible and really kept you guessing.
I love the way that Isabella writes, she has a point or a reason for everything, nothing is filler, which personally, I love. Her characters are always so interesting and grab your attention. And sometimes your heart…ok, maybe always.
Let’s talk a second about the cover, I think it’s great but I didn’t understand the hand over the face thing, what on earth? (I know, I know...don’t shoot me!) But it is actually PERFECT for the story, it complements the story so perfectly that I couldn’t imagine a better cover. That’ll teach me to not have faith in Isabella!
Envy (previously titled Malice) is book 2 in the Empire Sin series and can be read as a standalone.
Warning: This is a dark romance, you need to know that going in but I think it will surprise you, it sure did me.
September 5, 2017
Envy is the second book in the Empire Sin series but can absolutely be read as a standalone.
It's a complex storyline. I loved the premise of the book.
The main characters are Beau and Lucy.
Beau is Empire Sin's attorney and representatives all of them including the not so innocent.
He's a rough looking brooding type of guy. His desires run on the dark and twisted side.
One night while at the club a beautiful young woman dances for Beau and he's instantly intrigued by her.
Charli is a dancer among other things at Empire Sin because she knows how rich the members are.
One night while dancing for Beau thinking that he may be her lucky break she sees his face and has a meltdown.
The right side of his face along with his eye is badly scarred and gives him a scary intimidating look.
She runs out of the club frightening by him and is kidnapped and not heard from again.
Lucy is Charli's sister. Lucy has most of her life been envious and hated her sister. She perceived Charli and
her actions through the eyes of a child not understanding what the real situation was. When you read the book you'll understand.
When Charli doesn't show up at home Lucy assumes she's tried of taking care of her and has left her.
Lucy always been jealous of her sister takes on her identity.
She's brought to Beau on the assumption she's Charli. He feels there's a difference in attitude and that something's off.
Beau offers Lucy a deal if she stays with him for a month he will give her a million dollars.
Things start to unravel and Beau learns about Lucy's secret.
Beau and Lucy start a complex dark sexual relationship and also work together to find her sister.
The discover that the Georgian mob are the ones responsible for taking Charli.
They infiltrate the group to try and learn her whereabouts.
Envy started out really good. It was gripping and heart pounding.
Then towards the end it became very unrealistic and not believable at all.
Other than the parts towards the end,the book was very good.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy
It's a complex storyline. I loved the premise of the book.
The main characters are Beau and Lucy.
Beau is Empire Sin's attorney and representatives all of them including the not so innocent.
He's a rough looking brooding type of guy. His desires run on the dark and twisted side.
One night while at the club a beautiful young woman dances for Beau and he's instantly intrigued by her.
Charli is a dancer among other things at Empire Sin because she knows how rich the members are.
One night while dancing for Beau thinking that he may be her lucky break she sees his face and has a meltdown.
The right side of his face along with his eye is badly scarred and gives him a scary intimidating look.
She runs out of the club frightening by him and is kidnapped and not heard from again.
Lucy is Charli's sister. Lucy has most of her life been envious and hated her sister. She perceived Charli and
her actions through the eyes of a child not understanding what the real situation was. When you read the book you'll understand.
When Charli doesn't show up at home Lucy assumes she's tried of taking care of her and has left her.
Lucy always been jealous of her sister takes on her identity.
She's brought to Beau on the assumption she's Charli. He feels there's a difference in attitude and that something's off.
Beau offers Lucy a deal if she stays with him for a month he will give her a million dollars.
Things start to unravel and Beau learns about Lucy's secret.
Beau and Lucy start a complex dark sexual relationship and also work together to find her sister.
The discover that the Georgian mob are the ones responsible for taking Charli.
They infiltrate the group to try and learn her whereabouts.
Envy started out really good. It was gripping and heart pounding.
Then towards the end it became very unrealistic and not believable at all.
Other than the parts towards the end,the book was very good.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy
September 4, 2017
Beau was briefly mentioned in Wrath (the previous Empire Sin book). Since then he had me intrigued to know a hell of a lot more about him, so I was beyond excited to read his story with Lucy. It was a deliciously dark and heartfelt story with a rollercoaster of emotions that I couldn’t put down. Although the start was a little slow going for me, I loved getting Charli’s chapter and how she began right from the start of the book.
I absolutely loved the storyline and Beau and Lucy's story, they were perfect together and that made it really enjoyable to read. I loved their interactions, some very hot and steamy and others very emotional including all the other characters in the book. I loved them right from the beginning. I loved Beau’s dark and controlling side but I also loved his caring and sweet side when he let it show. I loved how bratty and defiant Lucy was at the start, she just seemed so cute then. And how sweet was that ending!
I loved the flashbacks in the story, from both POVs, it made me feel that little bit more connected while reading as I felt it was a lot more personal for me. I was intrigued by Rhys and how Empire Sin came to be, I loved knowing how part of the club had started and who owned it.
There were some things that were said that had me a little confused as they didn’t make much sense following the story, for me anyway, so it took a little time to piece it together and figure it out. But still an amazing read, Isabella has written another great read and I can’t wait to see who’s story is next in the Empire Sin books
4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
I absolutely loved the storyline and Beau and Lucy's story, they were perfect together and that made it really enjoyable to read. I loved their interactions, some very hot and steamy and others very emotional including all the other characters in the book. I loved them right from the beginning. I loved Beau’s dark and controlling side but I also loved his caring and sweet side when he let it show. I loved how bratty and defiant Lucy was at the start, she just seemed so cute then. And how sweet was that ending!
I loved the flashbacks in the story, from both POVs, it made me feel that little bit more connected while reading as I felt it was a lot more personal for me. I was intrigued by Rhys and how Empire Sin came to be, I loved knowing how part of the club had started and who owned it.
There were some things that were said that had me a little confused as they didn’t make much sense following the story, for me anyway, so it took a little time to piece it together and figure it out. But still an amazing read, Isabella has written another great read and I can’t wait to see who’s story is next in the Empire Sin books
4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
September 6, 2017
1 Not-Worth-My-Time-Star ☆
This is about a girl who trades places with her twin sister, who basically sells herself in sex-slavery for a million dollars. The beginning was way tooo long. All her time training (which is stripping & masterbating to music) has led to this moment. Dancing in front of a guy in hopes of being sold.... WHAT?! :/
I hate how much every part of every aspect of the story had a backstory, that just needed to be explained. F#%K ME!
I almost fell asleep....
I found Beau's fascination with strangling his slave a little weird. Im all down for kinky sex but he just likes to choke her all the time. It was especially odd for her to wake up with his hands around her neck, staring at her.
I DNF this book. I don't know how, but i managed to make it 50% into the book, before wanting to rip my eyes out. I cant do it anymore. There were so many negatives...
1. The sexual scenes were too rough and deplorable. They actually made me cringe.
2. The story was too long and made no sense. Lucy's mother and father owed a debt and because they are dead, the debt has passed on to her...?
3. Beau is willing and able to pay Lucy ONE MILLION DOLLARS for a month of her time. And he'll triple it if she stays forever? Really? I doubt a criminal lawyer in his 30's has that kind of cash just floating around.
4. Beau's scar. It scared everyone to death but he likes when he scares people. He wants to be treated different despite the usual line everyone always says, "I want to be treated like everyone else."
5. I couldn't relate to anyone in the story. Not Lucy, Charli or Beau.
6. Im still confused why on the cover, Beau's abs are concaved.
This is about a girl who trades places with her twin sister, who basically sells herself in sex-slavery for a million dollars. The beginning was way tooo long. All her time training (which is stripping & masterbating to music) has led to this moment. Dancing in front of a guy in hopes of being sold.... WHAT?! :/
I hate how much every part of every aspect of the story had a backstory, that just needed to be explained. F#%K ME!
I almost fell asleep....
I found Beau's fascination with strangling his slave a little weird. Im all down for kinky sex but he just likes to choke her all the time. It was especially odd for her to wake up with his hands around her neck, staring at her.
I DNF this book. I don't know how, but i managed to make it 50% into the book, before wanting to rip my eyes out. I cant do it anymore. There were so many negatives...
1. The sexual scenes were too rough and deplorable. They actually made me cringe.
2. The story was too long and made no sense. Lucy's mother and father owed a debt and because they are dead, the debt has passed on to her...?
3. Beau is willing and able to pay Lucy ONE MILLION DOLLARS for a month of her time. And he'll triple it if she stays forever? Really? I doubt a criminal lawyer in his 30's has that kind of cash just floating around.
4. Beau's scar. It scared everyone to death but he likes when he scares people. He wants to be treated different despite the usual line everyone always says, "I want to be treated like everyone else."
5. I couldn't relate to anyone in the story. Not Lucy, Charli or Beau.
6. Im still confused why on the cover, Beau's abs are concaved.
September 7, 2017
Why do you do this to me? Let me start at the beginning.
We first meet Charli who is dancing at Empire Sin for Beau….but before anything really happens she runs from the room. Then something happens to her, but we aren’t sure what.
Beau can’t get her out of his mind and so he goes back to the club to claim her, but it turns out to be her sister, Lucy, that he finds instead. He partially thinks that she is acting different, but doesn’t really think about it much. She agrees to a deal and goes home with him. Things get interesting when she gets an anonymous email about keeping who she is a secret from Beau. She has for years envied the life her sister had and is happy that she is now the one getting the attention after years of being a shadow to her sister. When she realizes what her sister did to protect her she regrets her choices, but will she be able to make amends in time.
This was an action-packed ride and I loved the characters, but I didn’t really get a strong connection between them. Beau is a dark character that has a chance to make things right, but he chooses not to. I can’t blame Lucy for her jealousness of Charli, but at the same time I didn’t fully connect with her….not sure why, but she was such a broken character, but at times she turns out to be pretty strong. I think the lingering questions are bothering me and the way some of the characters actions didn’t ring true.
Hero 4 Stars / Heroine 4 stars / Steam 3 stars / Plot 3 stars / Overall 3.5 Stars
Keys: MF, part of a series, suspense, can be read as a standalone, dark
#MSBB - I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book
We first meet Charli who is dancing at Empire Sin for Beau….but before anything really happens she runs from the room. Then something happens to her, but we aren’t sure what.
Beau can’t get her out of his mind and so he goes back to the club to claim her, but it turns out to be her sister, Lucy, that he finds instead. He partially thinks that she is acting different, but doesn’t really think about it much. She agrees to a deal and goes home with him. Things get interesting when she gets an anonymous email about keeping who she is a secret from Beau. She has for years envied the life her sister had and is happy that she is now the one getting the attention after years of being a shadow to her sister. When she realizes what her sister did to protect her she regrets her choices, but will she be able to make amends in time.
This was an action-packed ride and I loved the characters, but I didn’t really get a strong connection between them. Beau is a dark character that has a chance to make things right, but he chooses not to. I can’t blame Lucy for her jealousness of Charli, but at the same time I didn’t fully connect with her….not sure why, but she was such a broken character, but at times she turns out to be pretty strong. I think the lingering questions are bothering me and the way some of the characters actions didn’t ring true.
Hero 4 Stars / Heroine 4 stars / Steam 3 stars / Plot 3 stars / Overall 3.5 Stars
Keys: MF, part of a series, suspense, can be read as a standalone, dark
#MSBB - I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book
September 4, 2017
Like always Ms. Isabella Starling doesn't disappoint with this book!!!!❤
The beginning is heartbreaking. Isa introduces Charli who is Lucy's older sister. Charli meets Beau first when she goes to Empire Sin to try and get money. She runs from Beau and disappears. She is terrified of his intimidating presence and the scar that covers half of his face.
Beau gets infatuated with finding Charli. Since Charli hasn't been heard off, Lucy pretends to be her in order to get money. Lucy is tired of being poor and has always been jealous of her sister. Lucy's plan is to dominate Beau and take all his money but she doesn't know what Beau Wolfe is capable of. Their relationship gets quite dark. Lucy starts to try and dominate Beau but that's when he really let's Lucy see what she has gotten her self into. She's scared at first but then notices how much she enjoys being controlled.
Beau finds out that Lucy is pretending to be her sister when he sees emails Lucy has been getting. This messenger knows Lucy has been lying and has told her that Charli is not coming back. The envy and hatred Lucy had towards her sister all comes crashing down on her once she realizes that Charli might be dead. Beau does everything he can to help his babydoll find her sister. Even if it means infiltrating a dangerous gang who mistreat women in the worst possible way.
All the twist and turns on this book are accelerating. I couldn't stop reading because I wanted to find out everything. Where is Charli? Is she dead? What happened to Beau's face?
The feels I got from this book.. AMAZING!!!❤
The beginning is heartbreaking. Isa introduces Charli who is Lucy's older sister. Charli meets Beau first when she goes to Empire Sin to try and get money. She runs from Beau and disappears. She is terrified of his intimidating presence and the scar that covers half of his face.
Beau gets infatuated with finding Charli. Since Charli hasn't been heard off, Lucy pretends to be her in order to get money. Lucy is tired of being poor and has always been jealous of her sister. Lucy's plan is to dominate Beau and take all his money but she doesn't know what Beau Wolfe is capable of. Their relationship gets quite dark. Lucy starts to try and dominate Beau but that's when he really let's Lucy see what she has gotten her self into. She's scared at first but then notices how much she enjoys being controlled.
Beau finds out that Lucy is pretending to be her sister when he sees emails Lucy has been getting. This messenger knows Lucy has been lying and has told her that Charli is not coming back. The envy and hatred Lucy had towards her sister all comes crashing down on her once she realizes that Charli might be dead. Beau does everything he can to help his babydoll find her sister. Even if it means infiltrating a dangerous gang who mistreat women in the worst possible way.
All the twist and turns on this book are accelerating. I couldn't stop reading because I wanted to find out everything. Where is Charli? Is she dead? What happened to Beau's face?
The feels I got from this book.. AMAZING!!!❤
September 12, 2017
At the beginning of the book we are introduced to Charli and Beau. They have a very intense introduction and then she gets scared & runs from him. Living up to the name of the book, Lucy is so envious of her sister Charli that she didn’t bat an eye when she never came home; she just takes her job and says she is Charli. Later Beau calls Empire Sin looking for Charli & Lucy decides to go in her place. Charli and Lucy are so different - How long does Lucy think she can keep the charade up before Beau finds out that she is not her sister?
I was so ready to read this book and it was worth every minute spent anticipating it’s release.The connection between them was so strong, right from the start. Beau is definitely an over the top alpha male who is not afraid of a little kink and roughness in the bedroom. Lucy is one of those characters that is perfect for an Isabella Starling book; some moments she was a spoiled brat and others she just misbehaved to bring out the disciplining hand of Beau. There is the taboo of a younger woman and older man that we’ve loved in her previous romances, as well as the standard Dark Dom that all of us love to drool over while we read. If you have read Isabella Starling books before, then you will absolutely 100% love this book. If you haven’t read her books before - and you’re ok with a little dark in your romance - then you will also absolutely 100% love this book.
**4.5 Stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book. **
I was so ready to read this book and it was worth every minute spent anticipating it’s release.The connection between them was so strong, right from the start. Beau is definitely an over the top alpha male who is not afraid of a little kink and roughness in the bedroom. Lucy is one of those characters that is perfect for an Isabella Starling book; some moments she was a spoiled brat and others she just misbehaved to bring out the disciplining hand of Beau. There is the taboo of a younger woman and older man that we’ve loved in her previous romances, as well as the standard Dark Dom that all of us love to drool over while we read. If you have read Isabella Starling books before, then you will absolutely 100% love this book. If you haven’t read her books before - and you’re ok with a little dark in your romance - then you will also absolutely 100% love this book.
**4.5 Stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book. **
September 4, 2017
A Beautiful Monster
Lucy has hated her sister for a very long time. When Charli never doesn't come home, she takes her sister's identity. She finally gets to fill the role she's envied for years.
Beau is lonely and wants someone to share his dark desires with, but he doesn't like letting anyone in. He did that before, and it left him scarred physically and emotionally.
Beau meets Charli at Empire Sin, but she runs away. When Beau tracks her down, he gets Lucy instead. He doesn't realize Lucy's true identity until someone contacts her about Charli. As their time together passes, Lucy starts to think about her past. She realizes that her hardened heart and jealousy kept her from seeing the truth. That the love and affection she craved, she already received, even when she didn't deserve it.
Beau and Lucy's love for each other is a beautiful monster. The way Lucy challenges Beau angers him, but also draws him in. Lucy hates the way Beau makes her feel, but she loves the pleasure and pain. They have the power to ruin each other, but their shared darkness makes them stronger. Their love is so twisted that few would understand, if at all.
This book will not be for everyone. Though not discussed in great detail, there is abuse of women- drugging, prostitution and violence. It may trigger some and/ or may not be content you're comfortable reading.
Lucy has hated her sister for a very long time. When Charli never doesn't come home, she takes her sister's identity. She finally gets to fill the role she's envied for years.
Beau is lonely and wants someone to share his dark desires with, but he doesn't like letting anyone in. He did that before, and it left him scarred physically and emotionally.
Beau meets Charli at Empire Sin, but she runs away. When Beau tracks her down, he gets Lucy instead. He doesn't realize Lucy's true identity until someone contacts her about Charli. As their time together passes, Lucy starts to think about her past. She realizes that her hardened heart and jealousy kept her from seeing the truth. That the love and affection she craved, she already received, even when she didn't deserve it.
Beau and Lucy's love for each other is a beautiful monster. The way Lucy challenges Beau angers him, but also draws him in. Lucy hates the way Beau makes her feel, but she loves the pleasure and pain. They have the power to ruin each other, but their shared darkness makes them stronger. Their love is so twisted that few would understand, if at all.
This book will not be for everyone. Though not discussed in great detail, there is abuse of women- drugging, prostitution and violence. It may trigger some and/ or may not be content you're comfortable reading.
September 19, 2017
A Beautiful Monster
Lucy has hated her sister for a very long time. When Charli never doesn't come home, she takes her sister's identity. She finally gets to fill the role she's envied for years.
Beau is lonely and wants someone to share his dark desires with, but he doesn't like letting anyone in. He did that before, and it left him scarred physically and emotionally.
Beau meets Charli at Empire Sin, but she runs away. When Beau tracks her down, he gets Lucy instead. He doesn't realize Lucy's true identity until someone contacts her about Charli. As their time together passes, Lucy starts to think about her past. She realizes that her hardened heart and jealousy kept her from seeing the truth. That the love and affection she craved, she already received, even when she didn't deserve it.
Beau and Lucy's love for each other is a beautiful monster. The way Lucy challenges Beau angers him, but also draws him in. Lucy hates the way Beau makes her feel, but she loves the pleasure and pain. They have the power to ruin each other, but their shared darkness makes them stronger. Their love is so twisted that few would understand, if at all.
This book will not be for everyone. Though not discussed in great detail, there is abuse of women- drugging, prostitution and violence. It may trigger some and/ or may not be content you're comfortable reading.
Lucy has hated her sister for a very long time. When Charli never doesn't come home, she takes her sister's identity. She finally gets to fill the role she's envied for years.
Beau is lonely and wants someone to share his dark desires with, but he doesn't like letting anyone in. He did that before, and it left him scarred physically and emotionally.
Beau meets Charli at Empire Sin, but she runs away. When Beau tracks her down, he gets Lucy instead. He doesn't realize Lucy's true identity until someone contacts her about Charli. As their time together passes, Lucy starts to think about her past. She realizes that her hardened heart and jealousy kept her from seeing the truth. That the love and affection she craved, she already received, even when she didn't deserve it.
Beau and Lucy's love for each other is a beautiful monster. The way Lucy challenges Beau angers him, but also draws him in. Lucy hates the way Beau makes her feel, but she loves the pleasure and pain. They have the power to ruin each other, but their shared darkness makes them stronger. Their love is so twisted that few would understand, if at all.
This book will not be for everyone. Though not discussed in great detail, there is abuse of women- drugging, prostitution and violence. It may trigger some and/ or may not be content you're comfortable reading.
September 8, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Carla's Three Star Review
Envy is the second book in the Empire Sin series. Even though it is the second in the series, it can be read as a stand alone.
Okay, I am issuing a warning with this review-This is a DARK romance, and when I say DARK, I mean DARK! Please heed the warning and read at your own discretion.
Lucy is a brat-maybe the biggest brat ever. She is all about herself, and she thinks the world owes her something. By a stroke of fate, she lands in Beau's world. His past has scarred him both physically and mentally, and I swear his mood swings will give you whiplash. He is enamored with Lucy and vows to learn all of her secrets and do whatever it takes to make her happy..um maybe happy isn't the right word to use with these two and their unconventional romance.
Overall, I thought this was a good read. While it does contain some darker sexual themes, there is some mystery. Despite life's attempt to knock them down, Lucy and Beau have come together and found their own version of love, but danger is lurking around every corner just waiting for the time to strike. Will their love last, or will the monsters in the shadows rip away everything?
Carla's Three Star Review
Envy is the second book in the Empire Sin series. Even though it is the second in the series, it can be read as a stand alone.
Okay, I am issuing a warning with this review-This is a DARK romance, and when I say DARK, I mean DARK! Please heed the warning and read at your own discretion.
Lucy is a brat-maybe the biggest brat ever. She is all about herself, and she thinks the world owes her something. By a stroke of fate, she lands in Beau's world. His past has scarred him both physically and mentally, and I swear his mood swings will give you whiplash. He is enamored with Lucy and vows to learn all of her secrets and do whatever it takes to make her happy..um maybe happy isn't the right word to use with these two and their unconventional romance.
Overall, I thought this was a good read. While it does contain some darker sexual themes, there is some mystery. Despite life's attempt to knock them down, Lucy and Beau have come together and found their own version of love, but danger is lurking around every corner just waiting for the time to strike. Will their love last, or will the monsters in the shadows rip away everything?
September 10, 2017
I’ve always loved this authors books but Envy wasn’t my favorite. I knew going in I would be stepping into the darkness with Envy, however, it was too dark even for me and I love dark. There were just too many hard limits for me.
The violence and brutality, (both psychological and physical), toward every woman in this book, including the heroine was too extreme for my liking. Although the scenes with Lucy & Beau were consensual, and I get where the author was trying to go, it was too intense for me. The event at the gambling ring both horrified and shocked me.
The story had potential but I just couldn’t connect with the characters. The writing was good, don’t get me wrong, but the extreme subject matter was too much. The circumstances that brought these two together left me scratching my head at the end. Questions were left unanswered.
I will say that the epilogue was sweet but that was the only time I actually smiled and felt good reading the story.
This is only my personal opinion and should not deter you from reading this book. If you like extremely dark stories then this book is for you.
I do and always will look forward to Isabella Starling’s next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
The violence and brutality, (both psychological and physical), toward every woman in this book, including the heroine was too extreme for my liking. Although the scenes with Lucy & Beau were consensual, and I get where the author was trying to go, it was too intense for me. The event at the gambling ring both horrified and shocked me.
The story had potential but I just couldn’t connect with the characters. The writing was good, don’t get me wrong, but the extreme subject matter was too much. The circumstances that brought these two together left me scratching my head at the end. Questions were left unanswered.
I will say that the epilogue was sweet but that was the only time I actually smiled and felt good reading the story.
This is only my personal opinion and should not deter you from reading this book. If you like extremely dark stories then this book is for you.
I do and always will look forward to Isabella Starling’s next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
September 9, 2017
Envy was another phenomenal read by Isabella Starling! I was yanked into this story from the very beginning and pretty much ignored everything around me until I was done.
Beau Wolfe is everything you would expect in one of Isabella's male leads. He is all alpha and makes no excuses for it. He craves someone to unleash his dark desires on. Scarred he keeps people away and can't help but be excited by the Lolita he meets at Empire Sin.
Lucy Rosseau is an 18 year old brat who thinks she deserves so much more than what she has gotten in life. When an opportunity arises to change her life she seizes it with both hands. What she wasn't counting on was Beau Wolfe and how his dark desires call to her.
Holy hotness Beau and Lucy together are explosive as in burn the sheets amazingly hot! I love the relationship that forms between them. Beau and Lucy are both damaged in their own ways but together they are absolute perfection.Their dark and twisted fairytale is so beautiful you can't help but be drawn in and hope they find their own happily ever after. I highly recommend you one-click Envy now!!
Beau Wolfe is everything you would expect in one of Isabella's male leads. He is all alpha and makes no excuses for it. He craves someone to unleash his dark desires on. Scarred he keeps people away and can't help but be excited by the Lolita he meets at Empire Sin.
Lucy Rosseau is an 18 year old brat who thinks she deserves so much more than what she has gotten in life. When an opportunity arises to change her life she seizes it with both hands. What she wasn't counting on was Beau Wolfe and how his dark desires call to her.
Holy hotness Beau and Lucy together are explosive as in burn the sheets amazingly hot! I love the relationship that forms between them. Beau and Lucy are both damaged in their own ways but together they are absolute perfection.Their dark and twisted fairytale is so beautiful you can't help but be drawn in and hope they find their own happily ever after. I highly recommend you one-click Envy now!!
September 15, 2017
Lucy may have started out as a twisted, mean brat, and I don't mean that in a nice way, not appreciating her sister Charli, and envying her, not understanding just what was doing on. but when she realizes just what happened, she becomes someone different. Her bold, brash behavior landed her a meeting with Beau, and though she is young, the sparks between them definitely flew, in crazy, depraved ways. This is NOT a nice, sweet romance. It's dark, rough, and oftentimes painful, so much so that even I cringed at times. Beau is a tortured soul, finding release through that pain. Both he and Lucy recognized something in each other, and it carried them through their time together. Depravity, twisted minds, playing their dirty games. Both Beau and Lucy's stories were difficult, and I couldn't help but love them a little bit more for getting through their lives the only way they knew how. If you love to read books that are deeply dark and erotically charged, Envy would be a great book to add to your library!
September 8, 2017
If you like dark, twisted romances then Envy by Isabella Starling is a must read. What happens when you let envy and hate consume you? This story will take you on the dark and twisted path of two tortured souls in the second book of the Empire Sin series. The storyline is very in depth and involved page turner full of intrigue, suspense and drama. The authors writing style is very smooth and deliberate and the words flow effortlessly from page to page. I loved, then hated and then fell back in love with the main characters as they were so realistic and believable in their actions. That is one of the many things that I love about Isabella Starling and her ability to bring her characters to life. Please note that even though this is the second book in the series, it is a complete standalone. I highly recommend a 1-click today!!! I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 4, 2017
Dark and oh so sexy
♡♡I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.♡♡
Hero, Beau = 5/5
Heroine, Lucy = 5/5
Secondary Characters = 4/5
Chemistry = 4/5
Sex = 4/5
Plot = 5/5
Mystery = 3/5
Action = 3/5
Darkness = 4/5
Humor = 1/5
POV = Dual POV
Ending = No cliffhanger
Stars = 5 ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Author = Isabella Starling
Would I recommend this book = Yes
Would I re-read this book = Yes
Would I read future books by this author = Yes
This is the second book in the Empire Sin series. All of which can be read as standalones. The first book, "Wrath" is amazing as well.
Dark and twisted and so sexy. This book was absolutely an emotional rollercoaster with a bitter sweet ending for me. I devoured the entire book in one sitting. I simply couldn't put it down. So much action and passion throughout with some heartbreaking moments.
♡♡I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.♡♡
Hero, Beau = 5/5
Heroine, Lucy = 5/5
Secondary Characters = 4/5
Chemistry = 4/5
Sex = 4/5
Plot = 5/5
Mystery = 3/5
Action = 3/5
Darkness = 4/5
Humor = 1/5
POV = Dual POV
Ending = No cliffhanger
Stars = 5 ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Author = Isabella Starling
Would I recommend this book = Yes
Would I re-read this book = Yes
Would I read future books by this author = Yes
This is the second book in the Empire Sin series. All of which can be read as standalones. The first book, "Wrath" is amazing as well.
Dark and twisted and so sexy. This book was absolutely an emotional rollercoaster with a bitter sweet ending for me. I devoured the entire book in one sitting. I simply couldn't put it down. So much action and passion throughout with some heartbreaking moments.
September 4, 2017
Compelling..
There is an old adage be careful what you wish for… Lucy wants the life that belongs to her sister and commences her plans for revenge when she manipulates an encounter with the enigmatic Beau at the Empire Sin Club …..but not everything is as simple as it seems and very swiftly she becomes ensnared in his world…..
This is a dark and erotic story of jealousy, control and vindictiveness…Lucy is a complex character and to be honest not particularly likeable….she has a twisted moral compass which fits perfectly with Beau a damaged, cruel and obsessive individual…I love the premise of this story which explores the destructive nature of envy and the strength of family bonds …..
This is a compelling read…exciting and intriguing I look forward to reading more books in this original series….I received an ARC of this book from the author.
There is an old adage be careful what you wish for… Lucy wants the life that belongs to her sister and commences her plans for revenge when she manipulates an encounter with the enigmatic Beau at the Empire Sin Club …..but not everything is as simple as it seems and very swiftly she becomes ensnared in his world…..
This is a dark and erotic story of jealousy, control and vindictiveness…Lucy is a complex character and to be honest not particularly likeable….she has a twisted moral compass which fits perfectly with Beau a damaged, cruel and obsessive individual…I love the premise of this story which explores the destructive nature of envy and the strength of family bonds …..
This is a compelling read…exciting and intriguing I look forward to reading more books in this original series….I received an ARC of this book from the author.
September 4, 2017
There is an old adage be careful what you wish for… Lucy wants the life that belongs to her sister and commences her plans for revenge when she manipulates an encounter with the enigmatic Beau at the Empire Sin Club …..but not everything is as simple as it seems and very swiftly she becomes ensnared in his world…..
This is a dark and erotic story of jealousy, control and vindictiveness…Lucy is a complex character and to be honest not particularly likeable….she has a twisted moral compass which fits perfectly with Beau a damaged, cruel and obsessive individual…I love the premise of this story which explores the destructive nature of envy and the strength of family bonds …..
This is a compelling read…exciting and intriguing I look forward to reading more books in this original series….I received an ARC of this book from the author.
This is a dark and erotic story of jealousy, control and vindictiveness…Lucy is a complex character and to be honest not particularly likeable….she has a twisted moral compass which fits perfectly with Beau a damaged, cruel and obsessive individual…I love the premise of this story which explores the destructive nature of envy and the strength of family bonds …..
This is a compelling read…exciting and intriguing I look forward to reading more books in this original series….I received an ARC of this book from the author.
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