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The Stained Duet #2
The End
Blaine Jacobs knows nothing of love, but Alana Williams does and she’s opening doors to truths he’s never felt before. Walls will be broken and secrets revealed, regardless of consequence.
*****
BLAINE
My throat growls out in distress, desperate for more alcohol to fuel this panic ridden hatred of myself. That’s all this is. I know that. It’s rage and indecision. A barrage of self-loathing and repugnance, one confused and trapped in its own irrational behaviour. The psychologist in me would tell me to quieten down. The magician would play for the fun of it, but the monster in me? He’s ready to rut hell into anything that will take me, just so it can imagine her face and abandon the last drops of my resistance.
I’m confused.
Losing control.
Being torn into three.
And no matter how I try to avoid it, the layers keep peeling apart with no sense of clarification or psychological evaluation. They just split for her.
*****
BLAINE
My throat growls out in distress, desperate for more alcohol to fuel this panic ridden hatred of myself. That’s all this is. I know that. It’s rage and indecision. A barrage of self-loathing and repugnance, one confused and trapped in its own irrational behaviour. The psychologist in me would tell me to quieten down. The magician would play for the fun of it, but the monster in me? He’s ready to rut hell into anything that will take me, just so it can imagine her face and abandon the last drops of my resistance.
I’m confused.
Losing control.
Being torn into three.
And no matter how I try to avoid it, the layers keep peeling apart with no sense of clarification or psychological evaluation. They just split for her.
421 pages, Paperback
First published October 10, 2017
11 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte E. Hart
43 books330 followersHailing from the depths of the quiet British countryside, Charlotte likes nothing better than sinking into her characters dark and devious world's. Sometimes they're kinky, sometimes they're twisted, and sometimes they're a serious hold on tight situation, but her stories are always filled with romance and love in some form.
"Life is a torrent of differences, different needs and wants, and it doesn't always end that well. Yet we strive to find our countering balance, hopeful for a happy every after. "
Charlotte E Hart
Connect with Charlotte at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 22, 2018
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm.
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 STARS.
What the hell did I just read and how did Blaine Jacobs make me fall hook line and sinker for his cruelly sadistic Arse when in real-time I would be running screaming for the hills.
Five Stars all the way, really wish I could give more to this as it so deserves it, it's such fantastically addictive reading.
Charlotte Hart has achieved the impossible, actually crafting a story that shows this unapologetic sadist in an actual sympathetic warm light, don't ask me how she has achieved this I just know my feelings towards Blaine were akin to puppies and rainbows approaching the end of this story. I really wanted him to get his HEA with his little Dove like so so badly.
So this is the second part in The stained duet it is ironically and appropriately named "The End"
my review for the first novel "Once Upon A" is here
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I'm assuming that you've read Part 1 and as such should have a fairly good idea of the kind of content to expect from this as Despite me previously mentioning puppies and rainbows, well let's just say I wouldn't bank on anything remotely fluffy in this tale.
its More akin to whips, Blood and Pain with a side order of degradation and humiliation thrown in just for shit and giggles.
So "The End" begins where "Once Upon A" left off with Alana thinking she is ready to handle a relationship with Blaine, That she can provide what he needs while still not realising that it is something that she herself also finds necessary to quiet the noise inside.
So the next chapter for Blaine and Alana's unique love story begins and for every step forward Alana takes Blaine seems to take ten backward, so scared of the feelings emerging from the barren expanse that is his usually cold heart and his past heavily impacting on there future, Blaine desperately tries to lock down his emotions scared of the past repeating itself when this time around he has something of importance and value to lose, an irreplaceable, breakable and vulnerable Toy, irresistible to his monster
We are also introduced to Blaine's inner psyche's, he sees each mask as a separate persona all functioning as individuals, all identities performing a purpose he needs in what he explains as his madness and self-diagnosed insanity.
The Professor, The Magician and The monster.
one to adore and teach, one to manipulate and manoeuvre/Blaine's puppet master if you will and one to annihilate, play and devastate, unapologetic in its savagery and mercilessness
Can Alana his little Dove accept all of these faces leaving Blaine grounded in Alana's love and acceptance of his true nature.
Alana herself grows so much also, accepting her inner masochistic nature seems to give her a strength and also a peace she has struggled to find in her busy demanding life, surrendering to Blaine silences the noise if just for a little while.
It was interesting to see the dynamics between these two evolve as both slowly realise that they had found there soul in each other.
"The end" was such a deeply intense and emotional tale, exploring and dissecting the dynamics of the unconventional.
Though this was a hot read, for me it was more the emotion and obvious adoration here that drew me in, captivating and hooking me completely, there was a scene towards the end of the book where Blaine openly shows his love for Alana and to me, it was stunning in its intention and brutality, showcasing Blaine's commitment and intentions and cementing their relationship.
Oh, I could just go on and on exploring the blurred grey lines of this very unique love story it's just such delicious reading.
but all good things must come to an end sigh. So just to conclude this is a very dark love story with a sadist that only follows his own rules, Please do avoid if the darkness is a trigger for you, myself I love that Alana and Blaine stay true to there natures even in love, Sadist and Masachist a match made in heaven or maybe hell, there's no childhood trauma or rhyme or reason to this it just is what it is. Alana and Blaine laid bare. I raced through this in record time and loved every second of the experience. I adored "Once Upon A" but "The End" is in a league all of its own beguiling and thought-provoking in its originality.
Thank you so much, Charlotte E Hart for providing me with an arc of The End (The Stained Duet #2) This is my own honest unbiased opinion
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 STARS.
What the hell did I just read and how did Blaine Jacobs make me fall hook line and sinker for his cruelly sadistic Arse when in real-time I would be running screaming for the hills.
Five Stars all the way, really wish I could give more to this as it so deserves it, it's such fantastically addictive reading.
Charlotte Hart has achieved the impossible, actually crafting a story that shows this unapologetic sadist in an actual sympathetic warm light, don't ask me how she has achieved this I just know my feelings towards Blaine were akin to puppies and rainbows approaching the end of this story. I really wanted him to get his HEA with his little Dove like so so badly.
So this is the second part in The stained duet it is ironically and appropriately named "The End"
my review for the first novel "Once Upon A" is here
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I'm assuming that you've read Part 1 and as such should have a fairly good idea of the kind of content to expect from this as Despite me previously mentioning puppies and rainbows, well let's just say I wouldn't bank on anything remotely fluffy in this tale.
its More akin to whips, Blood and Pain with a side order of degradation and humiliation thrown in just for shit and giggles.
So "The End" begins where "Once Upon A" left off with Alana thinking she is ready to handle a relationship with Blaine, That she can provide what he needs while still not realising that it is something that she herself also finds necessary to quiet the noise inside.
So the next chapter for Blaine and Alana's unique love story begins and for every step forward Alana takes Blaine seems to take ten backward, so scared of the feelings emerging from the barren expanse that is his usually cold heart and his past heavily impacting on there future, Blaine desperately tries to lock down his emotions scared of the past repeating itself when this time around he has something of importance and value to lose, an irreplaceable, breakable and vulnerable Toy, irresistible to his monster
We are also introduced to Blaine's inner psyche's, he sees each mask as a separate persona all functioning as individuals, all identities performing a purpose he needs in what he explains as his madness and self-diagnosed insanity.
The Professor, The Magician and The monster.
one to adore and teach, one to manipulate and manoeuvre/Blaine's puppet master if you will and one to annihilate, play and devastate, unapologetic in its savagery and mercilessness
Can Alana his little Dove accept all of these faces leaving Blaine grounded in Alana's love and acceptance of his true nature.
Alana herself grows so much also, accepting her inner masochistic nature seems to give her a strength and also a peace she has struggled to find in her busy demanding life, surrendering to Blaine silences the noise if just for a little while.
It was interesting to see the dynamics between these two evolve as both slowly realise that they had found there soul in each other.
"The end" was such a deeply intense and emotional tale, exploring and dissecting the dynamics of the unconventional.
Though this was a hot read, for me it was more the emotion and obvious adoration here that drew me in, captivating and hooking me completely, there was a scene towards the end of the book where Blaine openly shows his love for Alana and to me, it was stunning in its intention and brutality, showcasing Blaine's commitment and intentions and cementing their relationship.
Oh, I could just go on and on exploring the blurred grey lines of this very unique love story it's just such delicious reading.
but all good things must come to an end sigh. So just to conclude this is a very dark love story with a sadist that only follows his own rules, Please do avoid if the darkness is a trigger for you, myself I love that Alana and Blaine stay true to there natures even in love, Sadist and Masachist a match made in heaven or maybe hell, there's no childhood trauma or rhyme or reason to this it just is what it is. Alana and Blaine laid bare. I raced through this in record time and loved every second of the experience. I adored "Once Upon A" but "The End" is in a league all of its own beguiling and thought-provoking in its originality.
Thank you so much, Charlotte E Hart for providing me with an arc of The End (The Stained Duet #2) This is my own honest unbiased opinion
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
October 29, 2017
From when Once Upon A ended, I've been waiting for the rest of Blaine and Alana's story to continue. The End gives us the PERFECT ending to this FABULOUSLY written duet.
The End as with Once Upon A is not your rainbows, and unicorns love story. This duet is SADISTIC! And I LOVED EVERY SINGLE WORD!! Charlotte Hart has BLOWN MY MIND with this duet.
In The End we continue to dig into Blaine. His sadistic side comes out more in The End. He's definitely got issues, but those issues make him who he is. And while at times I wanted to slap him, his character broke into my heart and chipped away at the pieces.
Alana continues to chip away at Blaine's inner psyche. I LOVED watching her come into herself and accept her masochistic side. Her submission ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!
Charlotte Hart does an AMAZING job at making you feel connected to the characters. To feel their pain, their, joy, their happiness, their sadness. She gives us a BEAUTIFULLY written love story, yet it's not your run of the mill love story. This book is full of broken characters, sadism, masochism, love and acceptance.
This duet is a MUST READ! However be warned it is very graphic, very dark, very sexy! It's also structured around BDSM, Sadism/Masochism.
*I voluntarily read an arc from the author. This is my honest review.*
The End as with Once Upon A is not your rainbows, and unicorns love story. This duet is SADISTIC! And I LOVED EVERY SINGLE WORD!! Charlotte Hart has BLOWN MY MIND with this duet.
In The End we continue to dig into Blaine. His sadistic side comes out more in The End. He's definitely got issues, but those issues make him who he is. And while at times I wanted to slap him, his character broke into my heart and chipped away at the pieces.
Alana continues to chip away at Blaine's inner psyche. I LOVED watching her come into herself and accept her masochistic side. Her submission ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!
Charlotte Hart does an AMAZING job at making you feel connected to the characters. To feel their pain, their, joy, their happiness, their sadness. She gives us a BEAUTIFULLY written love story, yet it's not your run of the mill love story. This book is full of broken characters, sadism, masochism, love and acceptance.
This duet is a MUST READ! However be warned it is very graphic, very dark, very sexy! It's also structured around BDSM, Sadism/Masochism.
*I voluntarily read an arc from the author. This is my honest review.*
July 10, 2020
I’m confused.
Losing control.
Being torn into three.
And no matter how I try to avoid it, the layers keep peeling apart with no sense of clarification or psychological evaluation. They just split for her. ~Blaine
Losing control.
Being torn into three.
And no matter how I try to avoid it, the layers keep peeling apart with no sense of clarification or psychological evaluation. They just split for her. ~Blaine
November 10, 2017
What is going to be like on the other side? Really who is Alana going to be by the end? This is what I question as the reader. I also wanted to know if Blaine holds any love for Alana outside of his sadism.
Blaine is pushing Alana away mentally and sometimes physically. He doesn't want to care for Alana passed the physical coupling. He wants to help her with the addiction she has but Blaine is keeping her around for his own selfish reasons. He doesn't want to acknowledge that fact.
Alana starts to understand that Blaine and what secret he was hiding, which made him distance himself from her. Me personally, o didn't like how Alana handled Blaine's secret. She wanted an explanation on why he was so distant or why be couldn't express his love for her but she truly ran scared.
When Blaine finally admits his love, Alana is nowhere to be found. He admits his feelings to the one woman who is no longer there. As a reader, I was wondering is he seeking her approval? Is he looking for some guidance?
There were so many quotes that stuck out to me but here is just one. It stated, " Love’s curse is, I suppose, one that requires absolute honesty. All truths bared." Blaine is thinking with psychology in mind when it comes to love but I believe he is starting to understand that love is never rational. It will test your resolve. It will seeks our your truths.
Alana and Blaine realized in order to go forward that have to move a little backwards. When the secrets come out, I shocked. Yes, I said secrets... One of those secrets if you read book one, you should already know about but the other secret... It threw me for a loop but it made perfect sense.
The ending was something that can't be replicated. Oh my god... I loved the preface. The love that Blaine and Alana has isn't ordinary but it is love none the less. I'm glad that Blaine has people who are a part of his community who make me accountable for his actions. I believe the main characters ending is the true start of their beginning.
The reader shouldn't stop at book. Take the leap like Alana and Blaine and dive into The End.
Blaine is pushing Alana away mentally and sometimes physically. He doesn't want to care for Alana passed the physical coupling. He wants to help her with the addiction she has but Blaine is keeping her around for his own selfish reasons. He doesn't want to acknowledge that fact.
Alana starts to understand that Blaine and what secret he was hiding, which made him distance himself from her. Me personally, o didn't like how Alana handled Blaine's secret. She wanted an explanation on why he was so distant or why be couldn't express his love for her but she truly ran scared.
When Blaine finally admits his love, Alana is nowhere to be found. He admits his feelings to the one woman who is no longer there. As a reader, I was wondering is he seeking her approval? Is he looking for some guidance?
There were so many quotes that stuck out to me but here is just one. It stated, " Love’s curse is, I suppose, one that requires absolute honesty. All truths bared." Blaine is thinking with psychology in mind when it comes to love but I believe he is starting to understand that love is never rational. It will test your resolve. It will seeks our your truths.
Alana and Blaine realized in order to go forward that have to move a little backwards. When the secrets come out, I shocked. Yes, I said secrets... One of those secrets if you read book one, you should already know about but the other secret... It threw me for a loop but it made perfect sense.
The ending was something that can't be replicated. Oh my god... I loved the preface. The love that Blaine and Alana has isn't ordinary but it is love none the less. I'm glad that Blaine has people who are a part of his community who make me accountable for his actions. I believe the main characters ending is the true start of their beginning.
The reader shouldn't stop at book. Take the leap like Alana and Blaine and dive into The End.
October 29, 2017
As I approached "The End" of this second part of Alana and Blaine's story I was totally dumbfounded at what I had read within the pages of this book. It left me reeling and feeling so full of mixed emotions that took me a few days to process it all to write this review. Ive read many BDSM stories before but never one that deals with Sadism/Masochism to this extreme.
I really was expecting to find tragedy and heartache within this story but instead what I found was a unique story of a sadist who found his soul and a his heart in the form of Alana Williams his little Dove. He makes Alana realise what she needs to quieten all the noise in her head that she can no longer cope with in her "normal" life. Blaine shows her his world that allows her to give herself over to her masochistic tendencies and be totally under his control.
They have a lot of going backwards a few paces before they are able to move forward with their relationship that adds to the drama and confusion of emotions for Alana as she has to come to terms with Blaine's self diagnosis of himself and of his confession of insanity.
This story was one of the most angsty and emotional rides i've ever taken into the dark side of fictional erotic romance, not because it's perverse and dangerous to the characters, but because it messed with my head and my logical thinking of what is normal and what is not. It delved into places that no sane person would want or need to go and it gave me food for thought that people really do live and breathe a lifestyle like this because of their needs.
This definitely took me out of my comfort zone. If you like very dark erotica and mind boggling, physiological stories with a lot of twists you will adore Blaine in all his insanity.
Totally a 5 Star read!
I really was expecting to find tragedy and heartache within this story but instead what I found was a unique story of a sadist who found his soul and a his heart in the form of Alana Williams his little Dove. He makes Alana realise what she needs to quieten all the noise in her head that she can no longer cope with in her "normal" life. Blaine shows her his world that allows her to give herself over to her masochistic tendencies and be totally under his control.
They have a lot of going backwards a few paces before they are able to move forward with their relationship that adds to the drama and confusion of emotions for Alana as she has to come to terms with Blaine's self diagnosis of himself and of his confession of insanity.
This story was one of the most angsty and emotional rides i've ever taken into the dark side of fictional erotic romance, not because it's perverse and dangerous to the characters, but because it messed with my head and my logical thinking of what is normal and what is not. It delved into places that no sane person would want or need to go and it gave me food for thought that people really do live and breathe a lifestyle like this because of their needs.
This definitely took me out of my comfort zone. If you like very dark erotica and mind boggling, physiological stories with a lot of twists you will adore Blaine in all his insanity.
Totally a 5 Star read!
October 17, 2017
I volunteered to read an ARC of this book and here is my honest review.
*Spoiler FREE*
Once again I have been left completely boggled at how to review a Charlotte Hart book. Its like she steals all the words laughing as she does so.
After some of the brutal displays of sadism we see in book 1 I went into this somewhat nervously and unsure what to expect. While being true to his character we see a more human side of Blaine which for me made the reading easier as we delve even deeper into the character we caught glimpses of in book 1. I dont mean it in the sense that we hardly see him in the story more like him as a person with all the various layers that make up the Blaine Jacobs we fear and love.
Alana is a tough girl to break and I'm not sure she ever really does in spite of what it may seem. She has strength and I loved that she never loat that spark even when it got tough at times.
I loved some of the depravity and some of the scenes were steamy as hell, and I was at one point saying out loud with my fingers crossed. Please have a threesome. Please have a threesome. 😉
I was intrigued further by some of the secondary characters such as Bree and in particular Blaine's brother Cole.
I really enjoyed it and felt that Chapter 23 was perfectly done. Overall it was the perfect End to the duet.
*Spoiler FREE*
Once again I have been left completely boggled at how to review a Charlotte Hart book. Its like she steals all the words laughing as she does so.
After some of the brutal displays of sadism we see in book 1 I went into this somewhat nervously and unsure what to expect. While being true to his character we see a more human side of Blaine which for me made the reading easier as we delve even deeper into the character we caught glimpses of in book 1. I dont mean it in the sense that we hardly see him in the story more like him as a person with all the various layers that make up the Blaine Jacobs we fear and love.
Alana is a tough girl to break and I'm not sure she ever really does in spite of what it may seem. She has strength and I loved that she never loat that spark even when it got tough at times.
I loved some of the depravity and some of the scenes were steamy as hell, and I was at one point saying out loud with my fingers crossed. Please have a threesome. Please have a threesome. 😉
I was intrigued further by some of the secondary characters such as Bree and in particular Blaine's brother Cole.
I really enjoyed it and felt that Chapter 23 was perfectly done. Overall it was the perfect End to the duet.
October 17, 2017
Jeez, where do I start? Where this duet is not my first foray into BDSM it is however, my first with sadism/masochism as the main components. This book seems to be more introspective than the first. Blaine,( I'm enamored with him) fights what he feels for Alana tooth and nail. I honestly feel he truly does hate Alana at times for the way she makes him feel which is totally in love. I have to admire Alana because she never skips a beat in her feelings for him. And while I could never put up with the crap he puts her through, her feelings for him never change. Charlotte writes a very dark love story that is very hard to put down. I don't use the word romance when reading this book because it isn't. There's nothing romantic about it. There are numerous twists and turns in the book with basically public sex within the confines of the club but there is no cheating. Written 1st person dual POV. Explicit sex scenes. I have to say I will be stalking Charlotte for more dark books like this.
**There are no spoilers in this review** Read an ARC for this review but have purchased the book for my library and support an author who's work I enjoy.**
**There are no spoilers in this review** Read an ARC for this review but have purchased the book for my library and support an author who's work I enjoy.**
October 17, 2017
To say that this is a fabulous story would be an understatement. It is utterly dark, and painful, and sexy as hell. Please read Once Upon A first as this is a two part story, neither of which is a standalone.
The End...omg where to start. It's a love story in all its sadistic glory. Blaine, my oh my, he's got issues for sure. His issues make up a personality that lends to a wonderfully glorious sadist. Alana is so endearing, and I find myself pulling for her throughout both parts. Their affair is absolutely on fire. So soulful, so beautiful, it flares hot and bright. The words, the feelings, the emotional upheaval draw you in and keep you tightly in their grasp. Charlotte Hart does a fantastic job bringing you a beautiful love story while not watering down the sadistic and masochistic views of the characters. Once you start this duet I know you won't want to put it down. However, I will caution you...it is dark and graphic in it's sexiness. There is a very strong BDSM structure. I myself enjoy this sort of story immensely and nothing in a fictional book offends me...but to those of you with tender sensibilities...you've been warned.
5 Stars
The End...omg where to start. It's a love story in all its sadistic glory. Blaine, my oh my, he's got issues for sure. His issues make up a personality that lends to a wonderfully glorious sadist. Alana is so endearing, and I find myself pulling for her throughout both parts. Their affair is absolutely on fire. So soulful, so beautiful, it flares hot and bright. The words, the feelings, the emotional upheaval draw you in and keep you tightly in their grasp. Charlotte Hart does a fantastic job bringing you a beautiful love story while not watering down the sadistic and masochistic views of the characters. Once you start this duet I know you won't want to put it down. However, I will caution you...it is dark and graphic in it's sexiness. There is a very strong BDSM structure. I myself enjoy this sort of story immensely and nothing in a fictional book offends me...but to those of you with tender sensibilities...you've been warned.
5 Stars
October 12, 2017
Amazing, Picking up from book 1 Alana has decided to attempt to take things further with Blaine. Blaine has told her he does not love her but it is is her skin that he loves, Alana does not believe this however. Causing her to push his buttons at times, though Alana can't understand why she feels this this and why she lets Blaine do what he wants to her. An incident that occurs at Blaine's house forces him to face certain things and he is not happy about it not does he understand why things are making him feel and act in in ways that he is not accustomed to.
There are things and issues that they both overcome throughout the book, and a secret is revealed. I do not want to reveal much as this book is a must read and I would hate to spoil it, for anyone. Charlotte has wrote another fantastic series it is an amazing read and I highly recommend this books as well as others that Charlotte has wrote. It is an dark emotion read at times littered with sex and hot BDSM scenes.
There are things and issues that they both overcome throughout the book, and a secret is revealed. I do not want to reveal much as this book is a must read and I would hate to spoil it, for anyone. Charlotte has wrote another fantastic series it is an amazing read and I highly recommend this books as well as others that Charlotte has wrote. It is an dark emotion read at times littered with sex and hot BDSM scenes.
October 19, 2017
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how you write The End.
This is the perfect culmination to what has been a brilliant story. We all know Charlotte knows how to write dark, dirty love stories but this one is up there with the best.
Even with the book being jam packed with words, causing it to be a whopper of a story, the flow and pitch are what really makes this book shine.
There are chapters full of page turning story, emotions, drama, sex, all the fun stuff and then we get a break from it all, we get to see the characters grow, the emotions, the thoughts and their weaknesses. Then wham, we're back to ups and downs. Your attention is never left to stray, your focus is always on the story at that point in time and not on The End.
I'll admit, I wasn't a big fan of Alana at first. For me she was a bit whingy, too soft and pure for a man like Blaine. But Charlotte has managed to give her a strength and resilience that really forced you to see her in a different light.
The End. Not your normal love story, not your typical happily ever after either but it works perfectly for these two flawed characters.
This is the perfect culmination to what has been a brilliant story. We all know Charlotte knows how to write dark, dirty love stories but this one is up there with the best.
Even with the book being jam packed with words, causing it to be a whopper of a story, the flow and pitch are what really makes this book shine.
There are chapters full of page turning story, emotions, drama, sex, all the fun stuff and then we get a break from it all, we get to see the characters grow, the emotions, the thoughts and their weaknesses. Then wham, we're back to ups and downs. Your attention is never left to stray, your focus is always on the story at that point in time and not on The End.
I'll admit, I wasn't a big fan of Alana at first. For me she was a bit whingy, too soft and pure for a man like Blaine. But Charlotte has managed to give her a strength and resilience that really forced you to see her in a different light.
The End. Not your normal love story, not your typical happily ever after either but it works perfectly for these two flawed characters.
October 23, 2017
The End
By Charlotte E Hart
5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It took me ages to think of what to write for this review – it’s not very often you find an author who writes a story that makes you question what you like in a book like Charlotte does. This is really the first dark series that I have read but my god did I love it! I thought Once Upon A was good but then along comes The End and I was not prepared for it at all. I laughed, I cried and I fell in love – totally in love with Blaine! I got so much from him in this book, his wants, his needs, why he is the way he is. The depth of writing that Charlotte has displayed in this book is outstanding. Alana was a funny character for me and at the end of book 1 I didn’t know if I liked her or if I didn’t but she totally came into her own in this book. She pushed Blaine to his limits and I think we saw the best of both of them. I actually never wanted this book to end – mainly because it meant my secret love affair with Blaine had to come to an end! And then there is that ending – just simply out of this world!
Charlotte has definitely written a page turner of a book, one with characters who you know you probably shouldn’t like but you do, one that will pull you so deep into their story that you don’t ever want to be let back out. A simply stunning ending to an amazing series – thank you Charlotte for bringing Blaine into my life – I might never be the same again!!
By Charlotte E Hart
5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It took me ages to think of what to write for this review – it’s not very often you find an author who writes a story that makes you question what you like in a book like Charlotte does. This is really the first dark series that I have read but my god did I love it! I thought Once Upon A was good but then along comes The End and I was not prepared for it at all. I laughed, I cried and I fell in love – totally in love with Blaine! I got so much from him in this book, his wants, his needs, why he is the way he is. The depth of writing that Charlotte has displayed in this book is outstanding. Alana was a funny character for me and at the end of book 1 I didn’t know if I liked her or if I didn’t but she totally came into her own in this book. She pushed Blaine to his limits and I think we saw the best of both of them. I actually never wanted this book to end – mainly because it meant my secret love affair with Blaine had to come to an end! And then there is that ending – just simply out of this world!
Charlotte has definitely written a page turner of a book, one with characters who you know you probably shouldn’t like but you do, one that will pull you so deep into their story that you don’t ever want to be let back out. A simply stunning ending to an amazing series – thank you Charlotte for bringing Blaine into my life – I might never be the same again!!
October 18, 2017
Charlotte E Hart is a wordsmith...she takes us as readers to a depraved yet unbelievably romantic world (yes) that we may never go to but live through her exquisite descriptions.
Blaine claims not to love, but when writer Alana submits to him and frees herself to just “be” - he gets caught up in emotions he didn’t know he possessed. Blaine does some serious BDSM and mind games with Alana that made me shiver with fear and sometimes excitement. There were some chapters I read on the edge of my seat! I had to reread last few chapters to savor the end of this perfect duet with flawed people who make it work! I love every eye and mind opening book Ms Hart writes!
Blaine claims not to love, but when writer Alana submits to him and frees herself to just “be” - he gets caught up in emotions he didn’t know he possessed. Blaine does some serious BDSM and mind games with Alana that made me shiver with fear and sometimes excitement. There were some chapters I read on the edge of my seat! I had to reread last few chapters to savor the end of this perfect duet with flawed people who make it work! I love every eye and mind opening book Ms Hart writes!
October 19, 2017
After reading Once Upon A (which you absolutely must read!), I was rooting for Blaine and Alana, all through the angst and the pain. There's really nothing romantic about this book - instead, it's erotically enthralling and soulfully woven to suck out each of your tenderest emotions. Blaine fought his love for Alana so hard, he almost lost himself in the process. But Alana was no pushover here. She kept pushing Blaine past his comfort zone until he saw the fiery love she had for him. I loved both book in the Stained Duet and highly recommend them if you want to go on a rough and tumble, erotically charged journey!
October 23, 2017
The End by Charlotte E Hart
This is the final book of this duet and it was certainly worth the wait. This book is everything you would expect from this author and more!!!
You emotions will certainly go on a roller coaster ride through this story while we follow Blaine and Alana on a path to finding themselves.. but fear not there are plenty of hot scenes as per for this author and I can assure you that they don’t disappoint or leave you wanting (well they do in some ways ;-)).
This story is beautifully written and flows so well. I just didn’t want it to end ever. I crave this authors writing like I need to breath and I urge you to read!!
This duet was simply stunning and the ending couldn’t be any more perfect.
Charlotte certainly has a way with words that make me want to lock her away and feed her caffeine so she never sleeps and just has to write and write to feed my absolute need for the words inside her head.
This is an absolute 5* read from me!!!
Don’t waste time go buy book one now and enjoy this beautiful story!
This is the final book of this duet and it was certainly worth the wait. This book is everything you would expect from this author and more!!!
You emotions will certainly go on a roller coaster ride through this story while we follow Blaine and Alana on a path to finding themselves.. but fear not there are plenty of hot scenes as per for this author and I can assure you that they don’t disappoint or leave you wanting (well they do in some ways ;-)).
This story is beautifully written and flows so well. I just didn’t want it to end ever. I crave this authors writing like I need to breath and I urge you to read!!
This duet was simply stunning and the ending couldn’t be any more perfect.
Charlotte certainly has a way with words that make me want to lock her away and feed her caffeine so she never sleeps and just has to write and write to feed my absolute need for the words inside her head.
This is an absolute 5* read from me!!!
Don’t waste time go buy book one now and enjoy this beautiful story!
October 12, 2017
Wow this book was hard to put down and has many twists and turns that are very dark. You will be ble to feel the emotions coming of the pages. This book is very dark and has sexual tension that will that you on a very twisted relationship and see that the darkest person can still love and care very much for a person. This book is well worth the read but read the first book first and you will love the series.
October 21, 2017
What can I say about this duet. Charlotte Hart has left me speechless yet again. The depth of her writing, the detail, and the delicious darkness are astounding. This final book in the duet is even more overwhelming in its emotional intelligence and personal journeys than the first book. Throw in some love of erotic pain mixed with indulgently sadistic fun, and you've got a read that will leave you speechless, as well!
October 17, 2017
::..Reviewed for Red's Midnight Readers..::
I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I have given it 5 stars.
I don't know what it is about Charlotte's book that leave me lost for words. It's been a week since I finished "The End" and I still feel unable to formulate the right words for a review.
Maybe it's the rawness of the story that emanates from within the pages, emitting a certain power that stirs the very depths of one's soul.
The End picks up right after Once Upon A and a follows the same intensity as before as Charlotte draws you deeper into the world of Blaine Jacobs as secrets are revealed and Alana has decide which path she wants to take. Seeing the characters growth and development has been amazing, watching them as they both opened up to the possibility of being more than they ever could have imagined.
Charlotte has once again given us a highly addictive story that you will not want to put down for anything. If you want intense sex and gritty storylines then this is for you!
I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I have given it 5 stars.
I don't know what it is about Charlotte's book that leave me lost for words. It's been a week since I finished "The End" and I still feel unable to formulate the right words for a review.
Maybe it's the rawness of the story that emanates from within the pages, emitting a certain power that stirs the very depths of one's soul.
The End picks up right after Once Upon A and a follows the same intensity as before as Charlotte draws you deeper into the world of Blaine Jacobs as secrets are revealed and Alana has decide which path she wants to take. Seeing the characters growth and development has been amazing, watching them as they both opened up to the possibility of being more than they ever could have imagined.
Charlotte has once again given us a highly addictive story that you will not want to put down for anything. If you want intense sex and gritty storylines then this is for you!
October 13, 2017
Damn!!! Where do I begin...... Mrs Hart has one of the most dark and creative minds that I know. The beginning of this story felt like I was put into a thunderstorm without warning of what was coming. The characters were so intense, engaging, and so entertaining. I was so sucked into this story that I found myself re-reading some of the chapters. I felt myself picturing real dark and visual pictures in my mind. And even after reading it I found myself unable to start another book because of the "so real" feeling I continue to feel. Very well written and a story that will leave a mark on your soul. Happy Reading.
October 14, 2017
There is a line from this book that sums up this series perfectly; "It’s my love story, isn’t it? It’s my Once Upon A Time. It’s a journey I’ve yet to see the end of, let alone understand if there is an end for." Charlotte Hart as taken us on journey that has exceeded all (my) expectations. I have been taken so far out of my comfort zone that I need a new zipcode. 💞 I'm not scared of leaving it either. After reading the first one I thought I was wholly prepared for "The End". Nope.....I wasn't. I have to buy new undies, the ones I had all spontaneously combusted! 🌋🌋🌋 The writing is superb, it paints a vividly bright canvas out of the darkness that encompasses the story.
October 15, 2017
I have been waiting to get my hands on this from the moment I finished Once Upon A. Blaine Jacobs is not my typical book boyfriend, but I do believe that Charlotte ruined what I considered my norm when she wrote him. Give me his dark, raw, twisted passion any day. Him and Alana and their back and forth, one step forward, ten steps back journey to the end was glorious. With its dirty and sadistic storytelling The End is more than I was expecting and dare I say better than the first. I loved every minute! Thank you Charlotte for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my opinion.
October 10, 2017
This story is even hotter than the first book and the story is so passionate and raw! Blaine and Alana have hurdles to conquer and a secret come to light. They endure so much and the ending is perfect!
October 23, 2017
Spectacular conclusion to the story of Master Blaine and Alana. Wonderful characters that have incredible chemistry together and a very deep connection. This book is dark but amazing. Blaine may be the master but Alana is a very strong woman, even as she submits to Blaine. She never gives up on Blaine even though he claims that he can not love, but can she open him up for love?
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 19, 2017
Wow an amazing conclusion to a truly exciting story. This is one of those books that even days after reading it you are still thinking about the characters. Yet again Charlotte e Hart has managed to write a book and bring the characters to life I can not wait to read more from this author
April 11, 2021
The End concludes Blaine and Alana’s story perfectly. It continues from where ‘Once Upon A’ (the first book in this duet) left us, so it is a must that you read that part first.
Blaine is such a complex character. My comfort zone regarding reading dark scenes was tested throughout this duet and I loved that. I certainly have learned more about Blaine and I feel I understand him to a greater degree after reading this instalment - Alana too. I don’t think I’ve previously read a story containing sadomasochism at this level and I now have a deeper understanding of that lifestyle also.
This story is angsty, emotional and mind blowing. I already knew by the end of book one that Blaine and Alana were perfect for each other and this sequel sees the couple trying to move forward but having to take time to explore their own thoughts and feelings - especially Blaine. I loved witnessing the struggles that Blaine has dealing with his emotions just as much as I loved seeing Alana remain true to herself and her feelings, and pushing Blaine to his limits.
This duet will not be for everyone but for readers who enjoy their romance on the dark side then this is one I highly recommend to you to read. I loved the twists and turns throughout. The supporting characters throughout this duet, in particular Priest and Bree, added to the story perfectly. The End receives 5 fabulous stars from me. I am now gutted that this really is the end.
Blaine is such a complex character. My comfort zone regarding reading dark scenes was tested throughout this duet and I loved that. I certainly have learned more about Blaine and I feel I understand him to a greater degree after reading this instalment - Alana too. I don’t think I’ve previously read a story containing sadomasochism at this level and I now have a deeper understanding of that lifestyle also.
This story is angsty, emotional and mind blowing. I already knew by the end of book one that Blaine and Alana were perfect for each other and this sequel sees the couple trying to move forward but having to take time to explore their own thoughts and feelings - especially Blaine. I loved witnessing the struggles that Blaine has dealing with his emotions just as much as I loved seeing Alana remain true to herself and her feelings, and pushing Blaine to his limits.
This duet will not be for everyone but for readers who enjoy their romance on the dark side then this is one I highly recommend to you to read. I loved the twists and turns throughout. The supporting characters throughout this duet, in particular Priest and Bree, added to the story perfectly. The End receives 5 fabulous stars from me. I am now gutted that this really is the end.
April 2, 2023
WOW, just WOW.....This review is so hard to write, to do justice to this brilliant book, the emotions that you feel are so unreal, so true, so overwhelming, you just have to let them into your head and live the story. This book is intense, it hits you hard, yes a love story with a difference, it's not a book to read fast, you have to read each word, let it sink in and engage in their story.
Alana loves Blaine with everything she has and proves it throughout this book, and you can see that Blaine loves her too, he says it but doesn't admit it to himself, until he offers the ultimate sacrifice for her.
To understand this book you first need to read Once Upon A, this is the start of their journey, and this book completes it.
5 stars are just not enough for this brilliant story, it is written with compassion and understanding of the life that Blaine wants Alana to be in, it is mind-blowing, the attention to detail is perfect in every way possible, ok it's not for the faint-hearted but if you want to be dragged to the dark side this duet is the one to read, I didn't want it to end, needed more of Alana and Blaine. I loved both of these dark books, they are worth reading, I promise you won't be disappointed.
Alana loves Blaine with everything she has and proves it throughout this book, and you can see that Blaine loves her too, he says it but doesn't admit it to himself, until he offers the ultimate sacrifice for her.
To understand this book you first need to read Once Upon A, this is the start of their journey, and this book completes it.
5 stars are just not enough for this brilliant story, it is written with compassion and understanding of the life that Blaine wants Alana to be in, it is mind-blowing, the attention to detail is perfect in every way possible, ok it's not for the faint-hearted but if you want to be dragged to the dark side this duet is the one to read, I didn't want it to end, needed more of Alana and Blaine. I loved both of these dark books, they are worth reading, I promise you won't be disappointed.
January 11, 2018
3 1/2 Stars
I love dark reads but not sure what to think about this one. I’m not sure someone so independent could change so much, it’s an interesting read. I also became kinda moody with his book and started to hate Blaine. I found myself getting bored with some of Alana’s chapters and wanting to slap her at the same time. I wish she would stand up for her self and demand answers!!! It drove me nuts!!! Also, he would have all these sweet thoughts about her then just be a jerk. I got tired of his mood swings. I agreed with Delaney toward the end of the book that he left her somewhat clueless and it made it so hard for me to like him.
This book is about what a sadist thinks and that’s what made this book interesting. This author did a lot of research and did a hell of a job. You look at things from Blaine’s point of view and see why he does the things he does.
I love dark reads but not sure what to think about this one. I’m not sure someone so independent could change so much, it’s an interesting read. I also became kinda moody with his book and started to hate Blaine. I found myself getting bored with some of Alana’s chapters and wanting to slap her at the same time. I wish she would stand up for her self and demand answers!!! It drove me nuts!!! Also, he would have all these sweet thoughts about her then just be a jerk. I got tired of his mood swings. I agreed with Delaney toward the end of the book that he left her somewhat clueless and it made it so hard for me to like him.
This book is about what a sadist thinks and that’s what made this book interesting. This author did a lot of research and did a hell of a job. You look at things from Blaine’s point of view and see why he does the things he does.
July 7, 2018
I loved this duet. I loved the flow and style of the writing. I loved the expression of ideas. I loved the exploration of the subject matter and the deep connection between the characters; the push and pull of their relationship; and the confusion of their desires, motivations, and moral obligation. There was a lot in these two books, and it was far from comfortable reading, but it was compelling reading.
Apart from some repeated errors that I found annoying (‘too, when it should be ‘to’; ‘passed’ when it should be ‘past’), and the fact that in my Kindle edition (downloaded last month) there were two versions of chapter 24 and the end credits, which suggests carelessness on the part of the publisher, this was well worth five stars.
Apart from some repeated errors that I found annoying (‘too, when it should be ‘to’; ‘passed’ when it should be ‘past’), and the fact that in my Kindle edition (downloaded last month) there were two versions of chapter 24 and the end credits, which suggests carelessness on the part of the publisher, this was well worth five stars.
November 19, 2017
A sumptuous, ravishing portrait of tender brutality. This sequel is more than a journey, it's an exploration, and Ms. Hart delivers it perfectly. There is feeling and sentiment, analysis and self-discovery, and of course, scorching sex scenes. If you like your romance dark, with BDSM content, then why aren't you reading Charlotte?
November 7, 2018
The teacher vs the student
Note this book is labeled a dark romance but I for one see it as more of a student vs. teacher relationship and the lessons they each learn. It a lesson in absolute trust, complete understanding and true surrender. Not only to self but to each other. It may be brutal but it is also beautiful and beautifully complex.y
Note this book is labeled a dark romance but I for one see it as more of a student vs. teacher relationship and the lessons they each learn. It a lesson in absolute trust, complete understanding and true surrender. Not only to self but to each other. It may be brutal but it is also beautiful and beautifully complex.y
August 1, 2021
The End just perfectly concluded Blaine and Alana’s turbulent story. I wanted to learn more about Blaine after the first book and Ms Hart delivered without diluting the tantalising complex character that intrigued and provoked so many emotions within me. What a truly addictive, thrilling, twisting story.
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