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All In Duet #2
Double Down
The stunning conclusion to the All In Duet...
In Vegas, there was one man who was off limits. One man... and I fell for him.
I knew there were risks. Still, I played the game. When Dario Capece called, I answered. When he beckoned, I came. When he broke all my rules, I looked the other way.
I knew there were risks. I just never realized they included death.
Note: This book should be read after Even Money (available now).
In Vegas, there was one man who was off limits. One man... and I fell for him.
I knew there were risks. Still, I played the game. When Dario Capece called, I answered. When he beckoned, I came. When he broke all my rules, I looked the other way.
I knew there were risks. I just never realized they included death.
Note: This book should be read after Even Money (available now).
259 pages, ebook
First published June 18, 2018
789 people are currently reading
1631 people want to read
About the author
Alessandra Torre
51 books16.4k followersAlessandra Torre (AR Torre) is an award-winning New York Times bestselling author of twenty-seven romance and suspense novels. In addition to writing, she is the creator of Alessandra Torre Ink - an online community of over 40,000 published and aspiring authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 614 reviews
June 14, 2018
I am always a little afraid of being disappointed when it comes to sequels, especially when I enjoyed the first book so much. I worry it isn't going to live up to its predecessor, or the author is going to take the characters in a direction I don't like. So I was a bit nervous going into this book. I needn't have been though because I enjoyed book two just as much as I enjoyed the first.The writing remained outstanding. It was well paced (for the most part). There was a small bit around three-quarters of the way through when the plot did start to lag a bit for me, and I felt the author could have tightened up the story a bit. But it wasn't a bit enough issue for it to affect my rating in any way. The plot remained engaging. There was no OW or OM drama. The sex scenes were suitably spicy.
This book was a bit lighter on secondary characters than the first. We get a couple of brief appearances by Rick and Lance. I was a smidgen bummed by that, and I hope we see them again in books of their own. We are also introduced to a new character...Laurent. I was super intrigued by him, and yea...he needs a book of this own as well.
Both Bell and Dario continued to be very likable main characters. Their chemistry remained off the charts. As did their devotion towards each other. Last, this was all wrapped up in a sweet HAPPY FOR NOW. I will say, I expected closure on all fronts, this being a duet and all. But we are left with a pretty sizeable loose end. Because of that, I can only assume more books may be coming?? In any case, again it wasn't a huge enough issue to affect my rating. Plus, more Bell, Dario, and their friends can only be a good thing in my opinion.
Want to read
June 10, 2018
Book 2 of 2
Release: June 18, 2018
Books in All IN duet should be read in order:
Book 1: Even Money
Book 2: Double Down
June 19, 2018
3 Disappointing Stars
June 20, 2018
So this is going to be one of those reviews that are really hard to write, but let's try.
After finished reading Even Money, I kid you not, I was desperate to read Double Down, that ending left me breathless so the moment it hit my kindle I dived into it. Unfortunately for me, it was not what I was expecting.
The intensity from the first book got lost somewhere between Louisiana and Las Vegas, meaning that I didn't get that heart-pounding feeling I got while reading Even Money. This book felt rushed, therefore unfinished. Sorry, but I didn't get the HEA vibes with this couple. There were a lot of missing points here, and there was some particular scene where I was like ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME? THAT EASY?. After that, I knew right away to where the author was going with that and let's say I was not happy. The thing was a little bit predictable.
It's hard to keep a reader focus on the main couple when the author delivers another character that totally steals the show. Laurent, baby, I will go to church with you. He needs his own book. All that cajun twang had me salivating for more!
Three days later, and I'm still in shock. I can't believe I went from I need the next book like I need the air I breathe, to WTF is going on here, and why is not Laurent the hero? Gawd, I'm frustrated.
Putting aside my ranty review, I have to say that Alessandra Torre's writing was in a way, captivating. But sadly, Double Down didn’t hook me in like I had hoped but that does not mean it won't hook YOU, so read it and let's talk about it later.
You can find me here: INSTAGRAM
After finished reading Even Money, I kid you not, I was desperate to read Double Down, that ending left me breathless so the moment it hit my kindle I dived into it. Unfortunately for me, it was not what I was expecting.
The intensity from the first book got lost somewhere between Louisiana and Las Vegas, meaning that I didn't get that heart-pounding feeling I got while reading Even Money. This book felt rushed, therefore unfinished. Sorry, but I didn't get the HEA vibes with this couple. There were a lot of missing points here, and there was some particular scene where I was like ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME? THAT EASY?. After that, I knew right away to where the author was going with that and let's say I was not happy. The thing was a little bit predictable.
It's hard to keep a reader focus on the main couple when the author delivers another character that totally steals the show. Laurent, baby, I will go to church with you. He needs his own book. All that cajun twang had me salivating for more!
Three days later, and I'm still in shock. I can't believe I went from I need the next book like I need the air I breathe, to WTF is going on here, and why is not Laurent the hero? Gawd, I'm frustrated.
Putting aside my ranty review, I have to say that Alessandra Torre's writing was in a way, captivating. But sadly, Double Down didn’t hook me in like I had hoped but that does not mean it won't hook YOU, so read it and let's talk about it later.
You can find me here: INSTAGRAM
June 22, 2018
Double down was the highly anticipated sequel that everyone wanted to get their hands on. Countdowns were in place, deals were made, and the drinking begun very early on because of the cliffhanger in part one. After reading this one, I have mixed feelings about this book. I didn’t entirely hate it, but I also didn’t love it and I felt somewhat disappointed.
If you’ve read the first book, then you’re fully aware of the cliffhanger that had us readers screaming wtf along with some other classy choice words. Double down picked up immediately and we were thrown back into the mix of web of lies and deceit along with murder. We were all left wondering what’s going to happen next and how can Bell and Dario come back from such a shocking tragedy. Some questions were answered, while some secrets remained just that…. A secret.
I’m going to be completely honest and say that I was expecting more from this story. I needed more answers and the plot itself was too predictable in a way that I was never excited for what was to come next. I did like certain parts and I feel that Dario was the epitome of any woman’s dream, but this was not a great connection for me with him being with Bell. Something was missing and when you add in the crazy AF villain, I felt disappointed.
If you’ve been waiting patiently to read this series, then what might have not worked for me, will probably work for you and you should give this one a try.
June 17, 2018
4 STARS
What a ride, I didn't know what to expect from Double Down.When I finished Even Money I was wondering what will happen in this one, and omg I was surprised and impressed with Alessandra's
writing!Double Down is a story packed with suspense,twists and a hot romance.
Dario and Bell's has to deal with many things in order to have their happy ending.Their love for each other is strong and powerful.They were intense,passionate and steamy.I just wish I had more of their romance in this one, but still it was a great story.
If you are looking for a suspenseful story with a passionate romance and many twists that you'll never guess this is perfect!
What a ride, I didn't know what to expect from Double Down.When I finished Even Money I was wondering what will happen in this one, and omg I was surprised and impressed with Alessandra's
writing!Double Down is a story packed with suspense,twists and a hot romance.
Dario and Bell's has to deal with many things in order to have their happy ending.Their love for each other is strong and powerful.They were intense,passionate and steamy.I just wish I had more of their romance in this one, but still it was a great story.
If you are looking for a suspenseful story with a passionate romance and many twists that you'll never guess this is perfect!
April 14, 2021
Finished both books in two days - they were that good!
Dario and Bell have to manage to stay alive long enough to outwit Hawk and find evidence to convince the Feds to investigate and then topple Hawk's evil empire. I loved all the suspense and the shenanigans in these two books. These were perfect reads for lakeside sunbathing this past long week end!
Don't we all wish we could have a former bad boy get "all devoted", the way Dario does with Bell.
Heck, don't you wish they actually existed! Enjoy: I know I did!
Dario and Bell have to manage to stay alive long enough to outwit Hawk and find evidence to convince the Feds to investigate and then topple Hawk's evil empire. I loved all the suspense and the shenanigans in these two books. These were perfect reads for lakeside sunbathing this past long week end!
Don't we all wish we could have a former bad boy get "all devoted", the way Dario does with Bell.
Heck, don't you wish they actually existed! Enjoy: I know I did!
June 24, 2018
Double Down is the second installment in Alessandra Torre's romantic/suspense duet titled: All In. The first book ended on an epic cliffhanger that had me bumping up my rating a whole star and eager to continue on to this book even though I had initially considered dropping the series. The cliffhanger was a game changer! It's what took this duet from an adult romance to adult romantic suspense/potential thriller territory. Unfortunately, Double Down did not satisfy my cliffhanger jawdrop...at all. In my opinion, this installment felt incredibly one dimensional and a bit disjointed with characters introduced for no real reason , convenient deaths with minimal closure, dramatic revelations that weren't expanded on, and an ending that didn't make up for any of it.
On the other hand, this book/duet is fast-paced which may be a positive for readers who don't care for long, drawn out series. Having a female villain is fun and shows sexism in play when many of the characters dismiss a woman as a potential threat. Torre took a risk with a certain bedroom scene in this book , and authors that take risks are awesome.
In summary, this is not a duet I would personally re-read, but I think there may be readers who connect more with the characters/storyline than I did. If you're an Alessandra Torre fan, you know you're going to read it regardless. ;)
The All In duet consists of the following installments as of June 2018:
#1-Even Money
#2-Double Down
Thank you to the following for permitting me access to an advance reader's copy (ARC) of Double Down. This generosity did not impact my honesty when rating/reviewing.
Source: NetGalley
Author: Alessandra Torre
Publisher: Select Publishing
Genres: Erotica, Romance
Pub Date: June 18, 2018
On the other hand, this book/duet is fast-paced which may be a positive for readers who don't care for long, drawn out series. Having a female villain is fun and shows sexism in play when many of the characters dismiss a woman as a potential threat. Torre took a risk with a certain bedroom scene in this book , and authors that take risks are awesome.
In summary, this is not a duet I would personally re-read, but I think there may be readers who connect more with the characters/storyline than I did. If you're an Alessandra Torre fan, you know you're going to read it regardless. ;)
The All In duet consists of the following installments as of June 2018:
#1-Even Money
#2-Double Down
Thank you to the following for permitting me access to an advance reader's copy (ARC) of Double Down. This generosity did not impact my honesty when rating/reviewing.
Source: NetGalley
Author: Alessandra Torre
Publisher: Select Publishing
Genres: Erotica, Romance
Pub Date: June 18, 2018
June 3, 2019
3.5 Playing Against the House Stars
* * * Spoiler Free
In Gambling, when you Double Down you are betting everything against all odds...Things look dire and instead of throwing in the towel or walking away and eating your losses... You make a Hail Mary move in betting it all or going All In. It is extremely risky and more often than not, can be disastrous...
But then there are those gamblers...the ones you see at the tables...all suited up. They have all the watches, sunglasses at night and shiny cuff links on their crisp white shirts. Those are the ones who never blink when the tables have not been kind. Those are the ones who calmly curl a finger at the banker, sign a huge note and take all of the chips and lay them at the feet of Lady Luck.
In this conclusion of Even Money, the All In Duet, this happens throughout the book. The story picks up from the where it left off- we are given a fast-acting situation for these star crossed lovers to handle and then we are taken for a ride.
This entry has more of the thriller/suspense element to it but with doses of this couple's passion and love for each other. It is what keeps them sane during all of the manipulations and maneuvers. We have new characters from Dario's past who leap off the page with us warming to them immediately. The past support crew are there, not as much, but are there when the going gets good.
And oh the villains... twisted, ugly and nonredeemable. All coming together not in a tidy bow but with a gift box of sorts. More leaning towards a possible addition down the line.
Torre totally Double Downed with her second entry and the pay off covered her bets.
Rolling the Dice (All In Duet, #0.5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Even Money (All In Duet, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Double Down (All In Duet, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Select Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * Spoiler Free
In Gambling, when you Double Down you are betting everything against all odds...Things look dire and instead of throwing in the towel or walking away and eating your losses... You make a Hail Mary move in betting it all or going All In. It is extremely risky and more often than not, can be disastrous...
But then there are those gamblers...the ones you see at the tables...all suited up. They have all the watches, sunglasses at night and shiny cuff links on their crisp white shirts. Those are the ones who never blink when the tables have not been kind. Those are the ones who calmly curl a finger at the banker, sign a huge note and take all of the chips and lay them at the feet of Lady Luck.
In this conclusion of Even Money, the All In Duet, this happens throughout the book. The story picks up from the where it left off- we are given a fast-acting situation for these star crossed lovers to handle and then we are taken for a ride.
This entry has more of the thriller/suspense element to it but with doses of this couple's passion and love for each other. It is what keeps them sane during all of the manipulations and maneuvers. We have new characters from Dario's past who leap off the page with us warming to them immediately. The past support crew are there, not as much, but are there when the going gets good.
And oh the villains... twisted, ugly and nonredeemable. All coming together not in a tidy bow but with a gift box of sorts. More leaning towards a possible addition down the line.
Torre totally Double Downed with her second entry and the pay off covered her bets.
Rolling the Dice (All In Duet, #0.5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Even Money (All In Duet, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Double Down (All In Duet, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Select Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
June 22, 2018
Double Down is the conclusion to the All In Duet and swiftly continues on from the first in this two part romantic suspense series. Bell and Dario risk everything by being together and in this second part it seems that they may pay a high price for their romance.
Double Down is fast paced and high in drama. It takes lots of twists and turns and has a conclusion that I truly did not anticipate which will certainly please those who are partial to romantic suspense stories. There are many aspects at play and I wish perhaps that I had discovered more about the motivation of certain elements of the story and would have loved more layers peeled away.
The romantic relationship between Bell and Dario continues to develop ensuring the romance levels of this story flourish with the added bonus of scorching hot scenes between the protagonists, something that this author never fails to expertly and beautifully create within the pages of her narrative.
*********************************************
Note: This book should be read after Even Money
Read Book 1 (Even Money): alessandratorre.com/all-in/
Purchase Double Down-->
Amazon: alessandratorre.com/ddaz/
iBooks: alessandratorre.com/ddib/
Nook: alessandratorre.com/ddnk/
Kobo: alessandratorre.com/ddkb/
Advance copy provided.
June 15, 2018
This was a really good romantic suspense. It was superbly written with believable, well rounded characters, sex scenes that were off the charts hot, an exciting suspenseful and interesting storyline that kept me engrossed with moments of drama, conspiracy, betrayal and passion.
I really liked Dario and Bell a lot! Their sexual encounters were hot! Besides the sweet, hot romance between these two, this story has a lot of suspense, action, danger, steamy sex, and intrigue.
Definately a great read...
In short:
Hero 4/5 | Heroine 4/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 4/5 | Writing Style 4/5 | Steam 5/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 2/5 | Humor 1/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 2/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 4/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked Dario and Bell a lot! Their sexual encounters were hot! Besides the sweet, hot romance between these two, this story has a lot of suspense, action, danger, steamy sex, and intrigue.
Definately a great read...
In short:
Hero 4/5 | Heroine 4/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 4/5 | Writing Style 4/5 | Steam 5/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 2/5 | Humor 1/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 2/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 4/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2018
Sinister, suspenseful, and passionate!
Double Down is a twisty, smoldering tale that picks up right where Even Money left off, taking us back to Vegas where murder is still fresh, corruption is still rampant, girls are still missing, evil is still prevalent, and long-hidden secrets are about to be unearthed.
The prose is incisive and tight. The characters are resourceful, vulnerable, and tenacious. And the plot told from multiple POVs is a fast-paced, engaging mix of corruption, friendship, family, smoking chemistry, violence, murder, romance, and wickedness.
Overall, Double Down is a tension-filled, shocking conclusion to the All In Duet that has left the door open just slightly for a few more future novels that are action-packed, full of heat, entertaining, and starring some very intriguing characters.
Thank you to Alessandra Torre for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Double Down is a twisty, smoldering tale that picks up right where Even Money left off, taking us back to Vegas where murder is still fresh, corruption is still rampant, girls are still missing, evil is still prevalent, and long-hidden secrets are about to be unearthed.
The prose is incisive and tight. The characters are resourceful, vulnerable, and tenacious. And the plot told from multiple POVs is a fast-paced, engaging mix of corruption, friendship, family, smoking chemistry, violence, murder, romance, and wickedness.
Overall, Double Down is a tension-filled, shocking conclusion to the All In Duet that has left the door open just slightly for a few more future novels that are action-packed, full of heat, entertaining, and starring some very intriguing characters.
Thank you to Alessandra Torre for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
June 14, 2018
Double Down was a masterful conclusion to the All In Duet...that I devoured in a single day. And now, my heart is ridiculously content with the ending to Dario and Bell's story. I loved every beautifully crafted word. This duet was a 10 star read for me!
Raine Miller
NYT Bestselling Author
Raine Miller
NYT Bestselling Author
June 15, 2018
4”Don’t Give Up On Me” Stars
The sexy suspenseful ending in the All In Duet opens at full speed. The story picks up with the cliffy that emerged in Book 1. Grief and sadness along with anger and questions come full circle.
Dario and Bell and their relationship.......they have found each other in a sea of impossibilities. But what they feel can’t be denied and whatever the craziness of their lives throws at them, they remember that love. I loved that the author kept that reminder in the story because there was lots thrown at this couple.
Deaths, FBI, Whys, Guilt, and Love...... all these things swirl in this story. The story stars out fast pace but does do a little slow down. The extra characters, Meredith and Laurent, were great. I wished there had been more of Rick and Lance but when present, they are full guns blazing. Dario and Bell, their commitment and their love are what triumph in the story. So many obstacles, so many evil deterrents, but so much passion and desire to overcome and survive.
I hope that this isn’t the end for Dario and Bell. I would have liked an extended Epilogue, somewhat farther out in their relationship. I want more of their love and to see what the future has planned for them in Sin City.
*advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
The sexy suspenseful ending in the All In Duet opens at full speed. The story picks up with the cliffy that emerged in Book 1. Grief and sadness along with anger and questions come full circle.
Dario and Bell and their relationship.......they have found each other in a sea of impossibilities. But what they feel can’t be denied and whatever the craziness of their lives throws at them, they remember that love. I loved that the author kept that reminder in the story because there was lots thrown at this couple.
Deaths, FBI, Whys, Guilt, and Love...... all these things swirl in this story. The story stars out fast pace but does do a little slow down. The extra characters, Meredith and Laurent, were great. I wished there had been more of Rick and Lance but when present, they are full guns blazing. Dario and Bell, their commitment and their love are what triumph in the story. So many obstacles, so many evil deterrents, but so much passion and desire to overcome and survive.
I hope that this isn’t the end for Dario and Bell. I would have liked an extended Epilogue, somewhat farther out in their relationship. I want more of their love and to see what the future has planned for them in Sin City.
*advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
July 18, 2018
Suspenseful and so good
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Part two in the series starting right after a cliffhanger, Double Down continued to captivate me and hold me hostage. I could not get enough of Dario and Bell together. You could feel the spark and the energy; the despair and pain; the heat and the fire.
This portion focused mainly on the suspenseful twists in the story and less on the heated connection. But they were there. They were definitely there to remind us just how good Torre brought these two together and how well they work as one.
This book is full of triggers, crime, and violence. It is loaded with intense situations that capture your attention and doesn’t let up until the very end.
What started as a spicy hot romance finished as a suspense filled romance and every step of the way you get to enjoy Dario. Great series!
* copy received for review consideration
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Part two in the series starting right after a cliffhanger, Double Down continued to captivate me and hold me hostage. I could not get enough of Dario and Bell together. You could feel the spark and the energy; the despair and pain; the heat and the fire.
This portion focused mainly on the suspenseful twists in the story and less on the heated connection. But they were there. They were definitely there to remind us just how good Torre brought these two together and how well they work as one.
This book is full of triggers, crime, and violence. It is loaded with intense situations that capture your attention and doesn’t let up until the very end.
What started as a spicy hot romance finished as a suspense filled romance and every step of the way you get to enjoy Dario. Great series!
* copy received for review consideration
June 21, 2018
Ah, I have to admit I kinda expected smth more...
the first 50% kept me in anticipation and suspense...but then it became so very predictable and honestly I was just waiting for it to be unfolded and revealed...I might have even skimmed a bit :/
I love Alessandra Torre, she can write a fantastic suspense romance drama, but here I simply think it would have been an aweosme story if it were wrapped up in just one book.
July 12, 2018
*2.5 Stars!*
*Cue the rant review*
I didn't know what to expect when I went into Double Down, but I hoped that it would be a lot better than Even Money. It wasn't and I'm mad—actually no, I'm pissed. I totally hate it when my faves disappoint, but honestly this duet didn't even read like an Alessandra Torre book. Where was the thrill? The suspense? The sex appeal? The twist that would leave me on the edge of my seat? Gosh, I'm so frustrated but let's get this review over with.
Double Down picks up right where Even Money left off as Dario has to do whatever it takes to keep Bell safe, even if that means risking his own freedom. My first issue with this book was with the pacing. Everything happens so quickly and we never get a moment to process all these events that occur. It's like death, then death then Bell and Dario screwing like bunnies and then more death. The plot just became repetitive and our so-called villain wasn't even a villain—more like someone who just had a lot of daddy issues. Like this honestly could've just been one book. Also, the plot line revolving around Robert should've been developed more. That would've made a way better story line and justice was definitely not served. Dario was a bit better in this book, less of a man-child and more of an actual adult but I still don't really care for him. My second issue with this book was with Bell. I felt like Bell's characterization fell all the way flat. She bored me at times and I didn't like the whole damsel in distress behavior. The All In duet was a major let down and I'm hoping the next Alessandra book I read will blow it out of the water for me. I'm ready to clean my hands of this duet and move the fuck on.
*Cue the rant review*
I didn't know what to expect when I went into Double Down, but I hoped that it would be a lot better than Even Money. It wasn't and I'm mad—actually no, I'm pissed. I totally hate it when my faves disappoint, but honestly this duet didn't even read like an Alessandra Torre book. Where was the thrill? The suspense? The sex appeal? The twist that would leave me on the edge of my seat? Gosh, I'm so frustrated but let's get this review over with.
Double Down picks up right where Even Money left off as Dario has to do whatever it takes to keep Bell safe, even if that means risking his own freedom. My first issue with this book was with the pacing. Everything happens so quickly and we never get a moment to process all these events that occur. It's like death, then death then Bell and Dario screwing like bunnies and then more death. The plot just became repetitive and our so-called villain wasn't even a villain—more like someone who just had a lot of daddy issues. Like this honestly could've just been one book. Also, the plot line revolving around Robert should've been developed more. That would've made a way better story line and justice was definitely not served. Dario was a bit better in this book, less of a man-child and more of an actual adult but I still don't really care for him. My second issue with this book was with Bell. I felt like Bell's characterization fell all the way flat. She bored me at times and I didn't like the whole damsel in distress behavior. The All In duet was a major let down and I'm hoping the next Alessandra book I read will blow it out of the water for me. I'm ready to clean my hands of this duet and move the fuck on.
June 16, 2018
What a phenomenal story! It had just the right amount of everything to completely consume me for days. Alessandra Torre killed it with this duet!
I loved Dario. He was wealthy, powerful, dominant. When he turned his sights on Bell he became obsessed, protective and tender. When danger came Bell's way, Dario was fascinating to read about. These two have become one of my favorite couples.
I was worried at first how the ending of book one was going to effect this book but I think the author did a fantastic job of keeping us at the edge of our seats. It was just the right amount of dark, romance, suspense and a touch of horror. Everything that happens really makes these characters shine.
There are some really great side characters that I need to see get there own book. The fact that the author left a tiny little loose thread gives me hope that as an overall series, this isn't over. This is one of those storylines that just make you want more!
Double Down is a continuation of the All in Duet so you must read book 1 first. ARC provided by NetGalley.
I loved Dario. He was wealthy, powerful, dominant. When he turned his sights on Bell he became obsessed, protective and tender. When danger came Bell's way, Dario was fascinating to read about. These two have become one of my favorite couples.
I was worried at first how the ending of book one was going to effect this book but I think the author did a fantastic job of keeping us at the edge of our seats. It was just the right amount of dark, romance, suspense and a touch of horror. Everything that happens really makes these characters shine.
There are some really great side characters that I need to see get there own book. The fact that the author left a tiny little loose thread gives me hope that as an overall series, this isn't over. This is one of those storylines that just make you want more!
Double Down is a continuation of the All in Duet so you must read book 1 first. ARC provided by NetGalley.
June 10, 2018
WHOA!!!! What an utterly unique, shockingly suspenseful sequel this was! I was completely RIVETED by the dark and twisty course of events that transpired in Double Down. All In consumed me with its romanticism, Double Down gripped me with its unpredictability, with its edge of your seat suspense. It all culminates into an unputdownable package, a MUST READ duet, and I enjoyed every moment.
Double Down has a decidedly different vibe than All In. All In, for me, was very much the build, the chase, the initial taste of attraction between Dario and Bell, the infancy of their romance. But Double Down is the fall, the downward spiral into mayhem and chaos after the jaw dropping cliffhanger at the end of book one. That MINDBLOWING moment was the catalyst in the seismic shift in Dario and Bell's relationship. It changes the trajectory of their newfound romance and catapults it into uncertainty, into danger, into a search for answers and the unearthing of dispicable truths before it even gets off the ground... And what unfolds in this second book becomes something unpredictable, something terrifying, something wickedly dark and unbelievably twisted.
This story is so different. You can tell that Alessandra Torre just loves to write romantic suspense by the care and detail that went into this duet. There are so many perspectives offered up in this sequel, so much information and so many wicked personalities. But still, the lush romance between our casino mogul and the college student he's fallen for shines through even the darkest moments. Double Down is the perfect marriage of sensual romance and thrilling suspense. It's shocking and gruesome at times, sexy and sweet at others. But it's always unpredictable, always riveting and it's completely refreshing and different from anything else I've read. I thoroughly enjoyed this duet and I strongly recommend it for its juicy change of pace, for its unpredictable roller coaster ride of intense emotion and for its fiercely addictive romance.
Double Down has a decidedly different vibe than All In. All In, for me, was very much the build, the chase, the initial taste of attraction between Dario and Bell, the infancy of their romance. But Double Down is the fall, the downward spiral into mayhem and chaos after the jaw dropping cliffhanger at the end of book one. That MINDBLOWING moment was the catalyst in the seismic shift in Dario and Bell's relationship. It changes the trajectory of their newfound romance and catapults it into uncertainty, into danger, into a search for answers and the unearthing of dispicable truths before it even gets off the ground... And what unfolds in this second book becomes something unpredictable, something terrifying, something wickedly dark and unbelievably twisted.
This story is so different. You can tell that Alessandra Torre just loves to write romantic suspense by the care and detail that went into this duet. There are so many perspectives offered up in this sequel, so much information and so many wicked personalities. But still, the lush romance between our casino mogul and the college student he's fallen for shines through even the darkest moments. Double Down is the perfect marriage of sensual romance and thrilling suspense. It's shocking and gruesome at times, sexy and sweet at others. But it's always unpredictable, always riveting and it's completely refreshing and different from anything else I've read. I thoroughly enjoyed this duet and I strongly recommend it for its juicy change of pace, for its unpredictable roller coaster ride of intense emotion and for its fiercely addictive romance.
June 21, 2018
More than me hating this book, I guess I'm more so disappointed. I usually love the authors work and this just didn't feel like something she could have written.
The story has so many faults and gaps, it was rushed to top it all and more than anything I felt the story wasn't even complete. It didn't do justice in giving a complete story, so many holes in the plot and so many questions unanswered. It felt so unnecessary, the whole book and the story. A great plot, with so much potential, could have been done but it's all to waste.
The way the book ended was more than dumb.
Over all, you can 1000% miss this book and get on with something better.
I'm just so disappointed, because the first book was pretty decent and this a lousy pile of shit.
The story has so many faults and gaps, it was rushed to top it all and more than anything I felt the story wasn't even complete. It didn't do justice in giving a complete story, so many holes in the plot and so many questions unanswered. It felt so unnecessary, the whole book and the story. A great plot, with so much potential, could have been done but it's all to waste.
The way the book ended was more than dumb.
Over all, you can 1000% miss this book and get on with something better.
I'm just so disappointed, because the first book was pretty decent and this a lousy pile of shit.
June 17, 2018
The best part of Alessandra Torre's new duet is that I didn't have to wait long to read the conclusion.
Double Down starts just after the terrible ending of Even Money. Bell and Dario are both devastated in their own way. For her own safety, Bell will need to leave Las Vegas while Dario figures out a way to protect the woman he has fallen for. Unfortunately, things are not easy when you don't know who can be trusted.
Double Down gives us more insight into Dario's life before marrying Gwen which was something I was craving. We're introduced to a new character, Laurent. Laurent is Dario's friend. Someone he can count on. They have known each other for a while and they have each other's backs.
Double Down is fast-paced, steamy and full of action and suspense. The pages pretty much turned themselves. I was fully involved in the story and I couldn't wait to see where Alessandra Torre was taking us.
I'm hoping we get more books in this world. After all, we have Rick, Lance, Laurent and Bell's roommates which can all get a book of their own.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
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June 18, 2018
I was so excited to read this highly anticipated conclusion to Even Money, that cliff hanger was brutal! This picks up exactly where we were left anxiously waiting on that cliff…
Talk about a monumental mind fuck, for Bell and Dario. It was also tragically sad too. Dario has spent so many years protecting the life he has with Gwen and she means everything to him. Together they have been able to stay under the radar of her crazy, evil dad. It only took one moment in time to change everything.
Bell has no idea what the fuck is going on, one moment she was falling in love with this incredibly all consuming man and now she has been plucked from the life she knows to one she doesn’t understand or recognise.
Dario is a man on a mission and he means to see it through, no matter the cost. Protecting the people he loves is important to him and when something threatens them he will stop at nothing to get revenge.
Just like the previous book, this is a story filled with danger and a few WTF moments that kept me turning the pages as fast as I could. I would have liked there to have been more steamy moments and the Robert Hawk storyline seemed to fall a bit flat for me which left me wondering if there was more to come sometime in the future perhaps? Despite all that, I loved this thrilling conclusion to the All In series.
Talk about a monumental mind fuck, for Bell and Dario. It was also tragically sad too. Dario has spent so many years protecting the life he has with Gwen and she means everything to him. Together they have been able to stay under the radar of her crazy, evil dad. It only took one moment in time to change everything.
Bell has no idea what the fuck is going on, one moment she was falling in love with this incredibly all consuming man and now she has been plucked from the life she knows to one she doesn’t understand or recognise.
Dario is a man on a mission and he means to see it through, no matter the cost. Protecting the people he loves is important to him and when something threatens them he will stop at nothing to get revenge.
Just like the previous book, this is a story filled with danger and a few WTF moments that kept me turning the pages as fast as I could. I would have liked there to have been more steamy moments and the Robert Hawk storyline seemed to fall a bit flat for me which left me wondering if there was more to come sometime in the future perhaps? Despite all that, I loved this thrilling conclusion to the All In series.
June 18, 2018
3.5 “Love me through the cracks.” Stars
I enjoyed this duet. I enjoyed book one, Even Money. I really enjoyed the suspense and side characters in Double Down that much more. I feel like Dario and Bell’s relationship was able to shine a bit more in this book. It was less sexy forbidden and more passionate and emotional. It was suspenseful, and wrapped up this tumultuous love story with a nice little bow. However, the bow may have been a little too bright pink for my taste, and some of the ends a little loose. I enjoyed the entire story, but did feel the ending wasn’t what I was expecting. It’d be nice to have an extended epilogue with some wrap ups for some of the side characters, and one major loose end. Other than that it was good. The ending wasn’t terrible... and I wouldn’t let it dissuade you from reading this book. I just want MORE. Do you think begging would work with this author?
All in all a great duet. If you’re looking for forbidden romance and suspense. THIS is an excellent read. It reads sort of like watching a sitcom. Layers slowly peeled back through the chapters and POV’s.
*ARC provided by NetGalley*
I enjoyed this duet. I enjoyed book one, Even Money. I really enjoyed the suspense and side characters in Double Down that much more. I feel like Dario and Bell’s relationship was able to shine a bit more in this book. It was less sexy forbidden and more passionate and emotional. It was suspenseful, and wrapped up this tumultuous love story with a nice little bow. However, the bow may have been a little too bright pink for my taste, and some of the ends a little loose. I enjoyed the entire story, but did feel the ending wasn’t what I was expecting. It’d be nice to have an extended epilogue with some wrap ups for some of the side characters, and one major loose end. Other than that it was good. The ending wasn’t terrible... and I wouldn’t let it dissuade you from reading this book. I just want MORE. Do you think begging would work with this author?
All in all a great duet. If you’re looking for forbidden romance and suspense. THIS is an excellent read. It reads sort of like watching a sitcom. Layers slowly peeled back through the chapters and POV’s.
*ARC provided by NetGalley*
June 13, 2018
Double down in blackjack is when "you have a risky hand that had the potential to be strong, or the potential to be disastrous. Instead of riding the hand out, you double you bet and in doing so, you wager everything on the next card." The meaning for Dario and Bell—they were a losing hand but stayed in and risked more.
This book was so appropriately named. After the ending in Even Money, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Double Down. Thankfully readers don't have long to wait.
Double Down picks up where Even Money left us and we continue the rollercoaster ride that is Bell and Dario's love. Though in this one they have so many roadblocks trying to stop and destroy them. Through it all, their love never wavered, their strong strength never diminished. This duet was everything that I wanted it to be... so damn sexy, heart-pounding, intense, and a complete page-turner.
Alessandra writes romantic suspense so well. That intoxicating feeling of not being able to put the book down because you need to know what happens next, will the characters be okay because now you are vested, and in the battle of good vs. evil—love vs. hate—can love survive?!
And Alessandra NAILED IT! I know I am not saying much of the story other than READ IT but trust me when I say that Double Down is exciting, intriguing, seductive and steamy... everything you want in a must-read book! Readers looking for something different mixed with their love stories will enjoy this duet! <3
This book was so appropriately named. After the ending in Even Money, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Double Down. Thankfully readers don't have long to wait.
Double Down picks up where Even Money left us and we continue the rollercoaster ride that is Bell and Dario's love. Though in this one they have so many roadblocks trying to stop and destroy them. Through it all, their love never wavered, their strong strength never diminished. This duet was everything that I wanted it to be... so damn sexy, heart-pounding, intense, and a complete page-turner.
Alessandra writes romantic suspense so well. That intoxicating feeling of not being able to put the book down because you need to know what happens next, will the characters be okay because now you are vested, and in the battle of good vs. evil—love vs. hate—can love survive?!
And Alessandra NAILED IT! I know I am not saying much of the story other than READ IT but trust me when I say that Double Down is exciting, intriguing, seductive and steamy... everything you want in a must-read book! Readers looking for something different mixed with their love stories will enjoy this duet! <3
June 18, 2018
Double Down is the 2nd book in the All In Duet, and cannot be read as a standalone.
I don't want to give any spoilers, especially since the two books released close together, there might be a lot waiting for the conclusion to be released before diving in.
What I can tell you is that Alessandra Torre did it again. Double Down was thrilling, suspenseful and erotic. After the ending of Even Money, I was dying to know what happened next. Just as things seemed to calm down for these two, another twist came out of nowhere and I was left guessing what was going to happen next.
Dario is the type of Hero that I love. A little arrogant when you first meet him, but as you get to know him, alongside our heroine, Bell, you fall just as quickly in love with him. This was pretty close to a five-star read. As a whole the duet is fantastic and a five-star series - another book that just proves that Torre doesn't disappoint!
ARC received from the author for an early, honest review.
I don't want to give any spoilers, especially since the two books released close together, there might be a lot waiting for the conclusion to be released before diving in.
What I can tell you is that Alessandra Torre did it again. Double Down was thrilling, suspenseful and erotic. After the ending of Even Money, I was dying to know what happened next. Just as things seemed to calm down for these two, another twist came out of nowhere and I was left guessing what was going to happen next.
Dario is the type of Hero that I love. A little arrogant when you first meet him, but as you get to know him, alongside our heroine, Bell, you fall just as quickly in love with him. This was pretty close to a five-star read. As a whole the duet is fantastic and a five-star series - another book that just proves that Torre doesn't disappoint!
ARC received from the author for an early, honest review.
July 8, 2018
Review later..
June 18, 2018
PLEASE DO NOT READ THIS REVIEW OR THIS BOOK IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE FIRST ONE!!!! THERE WILL BE SPOILERS! But only for those who haven't read book #1.☺
Book #2 starts where the first one left us hanging!
Bell just found Gwen dead in the hotel room. Dario reacts quickly and sends her to an old buddy in Louisiana. He already knows that Gwen's father and his 'killer' girl will never let Bell live.
And poor Bell. She doesn't know what to think - to do. She's stuck in the swamps with this weird Laurent person. Does Dario even care for her, love her? After the way he reacted to Gwen's death. She's just not sure about anything anymore.
═══════════════════════
YAY, finally book #2 - even though it hasn't been that long!
Book #1 ended with a huge Cliffy and now we're right back in that moment with Dario & Bell.
It was all mega exciting and scary and I just wanted to fast forward to the end to see if and how we'll get that happily ever after. But of course I didn't! I read the whole amazing story!
And I loved it!
It was all very edge-of-your-seat-ish. You just had to keep on reading. How would poor Dario handle his father-in-law and everything surrounding the death of his wife in Vegas?! He needs to get him arrested ... otherwise he will never be free and happy with Bell.
It's not easy, but Dario is NOT giving up. He's finally found his happily ever after person - and he'll do anything for their future life together.
And then when you think you can finally take a breath ... that it's almost time for our happy end - and BAM - it's so not over yet! Grrrr!
GREAT SEXY SUSPENSE!
I loved every minute of it!
Oh, well, if I had to name a tiny thing I didn't love? I don't like books that have chapters in the bad people's POV. I only want the two main character's thoughts!
BUT it didn't bother me all that much!
I still LOVED this duet very much! Dario is so mega swoon-worthy!
This was the perfect finale with the perfect ending to our darlings' story!
And oooh - can we get Rick and Lance's story one day??? Please!?
And Laurent too! I want ALL the stories!
I also wouldn't mind if Netflix came along and made a show out of it!
♡
♡
♡
♡
June 18, 2018
I loved this series for so many reasons. The characters were interesting, the plot intriguing, the sex scorching and the writing tight and perfect. Once I picked this up I couldn’t put it down and now, long after I’m done, I’m still craving more of Bell and Dario.
Picking up right where Even Money left off, Double Down deals with the attempt on Bell’s life and the lengths Dario must go through to protect the woman he loves. I found his protectiveness to be oh-so alpha, and adored reading about Dario putting Bell above everything. Sending her to his home in Louisiana to protect her, I enjoyed seeing the humble beginnings where this King of Las Vegas began. It humanized this larger than life man and made him just that much more desirable to me.
Alessandra Torre’s ability to spin a tale full of twists and suspense and unresolved ends drew me in, and I truly could not put this book down. While I longed for a happily ever after for this couple, I can’t say that I’m sorry that everything was not wrapped up on a nice neat bow. The secondary characters were so interesting and likeable that I’d love to see some of them again, and while Bell and Dario deserve their happy ending, I’d invite more drama if it meant getting to experience more of their brand of romance.
June 21, 2018
4.5 Stars
I was on pins and needles since I finished Even Money and the highly anticipated conclusion to the All In Duet was definitely worth the wait! It was quite a rollercoaster as a matter of fact!
This story that was well-written, suspenseful, unpredictable and emotionally compelling. It was intense, and it only got more and more intense as the story progressed. Alessandra Torre really delves into the dark romance genre perfectly. What makes Double Down a mesmerizing thrill-ride is the meticulous way in which its plot unravels. This is the type of plot which you don't want specifics before reading because they would be spoilers in a big way. The fear and heat levels rise pretty high and often, the twists and turns are unpredictable and nerve wracking at times!
The story basically kept me on the edge of my seat from page one, holding my breath with just so much anticipation of what was going to happen next. The story flowed really smoothly and I loved reading in dual POV and getting inside each of the main character's heads. In this installment, Dario and Bell’s romance took a backseat to the suspense. I was fully invested and their relationship was really enhanced by the danger and drama. This book keeps you guessing and I still question a few things. Overall, this story has been quite the emotional ride! The author did a great job of tying up all main loose ends and giving me the happily ever after I wanted for Bell and Dario.
ARC generously provided by the author.
I was on pins and needles since I finished Even Money and the highly anticipated conclusion to the All In Duet was definitely worth the wait! It was quite a rollercoaster as a matter of fact!
This story that was well-written, suspenseful, unpredictable and emotionally compelling. It was intense, and it only got more and more intense as the story progressed. Alessandra Torre really delves into the dark romance genre perfectly. What makes Double Down a mesmerizing thrill-ride is the meticulous way in which its plot unravels. This is the type of plot which you don't want specifics before reading because they would be spoilers in a big way. The fear and heat levels rise pretty high and often, the twists and turns are unpredictable and nerve wracking at times!
The story basically kept me on the edge of my seat from page one, holding my breath with just so much anticipation of what was going to happen next. The story flowed really smoothly and I loved reading in dual POV and getting inside each of the main character's heads. In this installment, Dario and Bell’s romance took a backseat to the suspense. I was fully invested and their relationship was really enhanced by the danger and drama. This book keeps you guessing and I still question a few things. Overall, this story has been quite the emotional ride! The author did a great job of tying up all main loose ends and giving me the happily ever after I wanted for Bell and Dario.
ARC generously provided by the author.
August 25, 2018
**SPOILER FREE DUET REVIEW**
‘He watched her and felt something he didn’t understand. Vulnerability with a side of fear. Want eclipsed by need. Intrigue overshadowed by jealousy…This girl would be the death of him.’
Even Money had us completely compelled from the moment we dived in. We fell in instant book love and just couldn’t stop turning the pages, moving straight on to Double Down to find out what was going to happen to Dario and Bell. Two brilliant characters in a sexy, dark and thrilling storyline. This duet stole our book loving hearts and we have to stress how much we loved the way in which Alessandra Torre wrote the POV’s and laid the groundwork for a thrill-tastic suspenseful romance set in Vegas.
“I don’t like to waste my time, Bell. If you don’t want me to chase you, I won’t.”
Bell Hartley is a wonderful heroine and we fully connected with her and the journey she’s on; stemming from a horrific episode as a teenager which broke our hearts. When we meet her, she’s working as a waitress in the prestigious casino; The House. Her bosses, Lance and Rick are hilarious and so very protective of her. We loved these lads and would love to hear their individual stories. When Bell isn’t working, she’s studying and shagging her professor on the side. Everything plays by Bell’s rules, well until Dario Capece walks into The House and an instantaneous and intense attraction blows Bell’s rules straight out the water.
“I can’t love you and not protect you. I can’t love you and not fight for you.”
‘His hand ran along my back. “Don’t give up on me, on us.”
Dario Capece, well where do we start on this man, be still our pounding hearts. He’s the typical three p’s in the book boyfriends we love. Powerful, possessive and protective. Dario is a king of the Vegas strip. He’s worked his way out of poverty and is a somewhat self-made man except for that one dangerous and disastrous liaison which will truly test Dario and the love he craves, desires and needs. The love he’s willing to risk it all for; the love that will make him a winner and someone subsequently a loser. The personal stakes are high, perhaps too high, but Dario plays to win and Bell is the ultimate prize.
‘Everything was different about him. Some of it I didn’t want, some of it I loved. But everything about him – the issues, the sincerity, the passion, the love…it was all authentic. I trusted him. That was the biggest thing about him. I lost my breath when he looked at me. I swooned when he reached for me. I loved him, even if I didn’t fully understand it. Even when I hated him.’
We really did love this thrilling and sexy duet. It went places we were not expecting and kept us absolutely riveted. We just wish a couple of loose ends had been tied up as it felt a tad unfinished, also we felt that Dario lost some of his edge in the second book ‘because of love’, which didn’t seem in line with his fabulous character. That being said though, we could not put this duet down and our hearts fell in love with Bell and Dario’s twisty, intense and dramatic romance that had our pulses racing.
‘Underneath my palm beat a heart that loved more fiercely than I thought possible. A heart that protected those he loved and spoiled me with every beat and chance.’
Purchase the ALL IN Duet below
EVEN MONEY BOOK ONE
DOUBLE DOWN BOOK tWO
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