Refrain

Beautiful Monsters #2

by Lana Sky

Some demons have angelic intentions... Caught in the middle of a vicious gang war, Espi Vialle is torn between helping a woman with a twisted past or escaping a world of crime he’s ashamed to be a part of.But when his own dark choices threaten to destroy what little hope of a future he has left, he’ll have to face his deepest fears and risk becoming the one person who has let him down the most.His brother.This is a dark romance that contains mature subject matter not suitable for those under 18.

Genres: Dark, Dark Romance, Romance

348 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 27, 2018

About the author

I am a quirky writer from the US who dabbles in dark, paranormal and contemporary romance. My stories aren't always typical, but contain a little something for everyone.

Reviews

[Charity Chimni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This series keeps getting better and better. I love the how ongoing storyline is progressing. And seeing Espi under the mask he presented in Cresendo was eye opening. Chloe and Espi seem like water and oil but soon realize they can’t survive without the other. Looking forward to seeing more of them in upcoming books.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 3 out of 5]

You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books

This was my first venture into the world of Lana Sky and I must say she had me enthralled. I enjoy a good dark romance and this story had a lot going for it. Lana Sky takes us into the world of The Russian Mob, The Cartel, and The Italian Mafia, no one is safe and if you think you are you're just fooling yourself.

Chloe and Espi are two broken people just trying to do what is needed to get what they want, for one it's finding a lost loved one, for the other it's fighting the fear of becoming just like a loved one. There is a thin line between love and hate and with Espi he'd rather hate then love because he can control the hate. This is a rather unusual look on things but I guess after all he's been through it would make sense to feel the way he does.

I didn't read the first book in this series but the beginning of Refrain did a decent job of outlining what had happened, I do feel that if I had read Crescendo I may have rated this book higher because I would have had more of a background on Espi and his brother Dante. That being said this was still an enjoyable read and I do plan on reading the rest of the series. If you enjoy a good dark romance or even a romance that deals with organized crime I would recommend this book to you, I would suggest reading the series from the beginning though to get the full effect of the ongoing story. Happy Reading!!!

[PP's Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a captivating dark romance by Lana Sky! The characters, the story, the prose- everything felt like someone is claiming my mind piece by piece. A beautiful haunting story about broken lives and shattered souls. The author takes you to the heart of crime and violence. Russians, Italians, Americans. All are playing the game of power and money. But what about the casualties? Like Chloe Parker. She is walking through fire for her sister and then she meets Espi. Both of them have so much darkness inside. But together they are trying to find their own light. The author expertly portrays the dark violent ugliness with all the beauty. I was totally immersed in the book from page one. More than dark. More than romance. This story is a part of life all of us should know about. Twisted and angsty saga to hurt and heal your mind.

[LaNoir · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Beautiful Monsters saga continues and if you haven't fell in love with Espi in Crescendo, it won't take must for you to fall in love now. Electrifying and touching, Lana has an irresistible way of blooming beauty out of darkness. Her words stroke an inferno of colors, capturing our hearts from the very first page. From a world of crime, where shattered souls are doomed to pain and suffering, love and hope, resist. Even when they're force to take other forms to survive.

[Sage Knightly · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75??

Not as good as the first book. It lacked most of the darkness, honestly. We were constantly teased with hints of brutal, vicious darkness, and failed to receive the full picture. I still enjoyed it as the writing is amazing, and there were still dark portions when it came to sex and possession, but overall it was not as disturbing and poetically dark as I had expected after reading the first book

[Natalia · Rating 4 out of 5]

rtc

[Ayvid · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was intrigued with Espi in Crescendo and had wanted to be in his head to see what he thinks, what makes him tick and most importantly to understand his feelings towards Dante. Their relation is fascinating. Espi in Crescendo was like a angsty, confused on what he wants but mature kid. In Refrain, you get in his head and get to see for yourself all that and more.

Even though I don't read or like dark romance, I went ahead with this series because I love the author's works. So I trust anything she has up, to be a good read, if not great. She doesn' disappoint. I enjoyed reading despite not liking the genre, so that says a lot. The story is a roller coaster and it had me grtting my teeth most of the time because of the way things were happening, which most of the time I didn't want, hehe! It'll scar you, what with all the tragedies and torments and heartbreaks and such other details but at the end, its all good. I'd surely recommend this book if you're a fan of dark romance.

Moreover, any book by Lana is great, so if you have a chance do look at her other works. She is an amazing author. She has a way with words and can convey a lot, she makes you feel with her words and descriptions. You can have a vivid picture in your mind with her words.

This story is also great becuase it gives you hope. It tells you that even within all the cruelty and burtality in the world, there are still good people out there who are ready to help you out without anything in return. You may not always be lucky and find those souls but don't lose hope and keep dreaming for a better world.

P.S. I love the way how the book starts becuase we get to see a bit of Danny and Dante. I love their relation, the way she describes it. I love how empowered she feels and has become with Dante by her side. Excuse this, I like Dante more. *sheepish smile*

[Tracie Simister · Rating 5 out of 5]

I gave this Book a rating of 5 ✩’s
Title: Refrain
Series: Beautiful Monsters Book 2
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Author: Lana Sky
Format: Kindle Edition
Published on: Nov 27, 2018

I voluntarily received a Courtesy Copy of this book from Enticing Journey and am choosing to leave a review.
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
What I liked/Didn’t Like: A very Dark Romance with lots of twists and turns to keep you hooked and turning the pages. The storyline is very well written with characters who are amazing. Lana Sky tastefully handles the issues that arise.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this amazing series. No spoilers though; this is a definite must read, you will not be disappointed. This talented author has written a hauntingly beautiful story, which is dark, intense, twisted, raw, gritty, violent, and with angst, healing, and romance, as well as having broken and shattered souls. I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and cannot wait to read more from this author, whose work I highly recommend for all readers who love a dark tale!

[Shannon Godwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very impressed with these books. I love mafia books and this series has not let me down. I will say that you will get more from this book if you read book 1 first. Chloe & Espi are totally opposite from each other but work great together. This book is not for the light hearted. Great writing & I fell in love with the characters. Can’t wait for more from this author

[Ana Oh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really Good

I think I Ike the first book better (longer, deeper), although I like the hero in this book much, much more. I was really hoping he would get his own book when I was reading the first one.

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading this book and as usual with all of Lana,s books That i have read I loved it.
It was a long read but i just couldn't stop reading as it was very captivating and so well written. i had already liked Espi,s character from the first book so i really enjoyed having him be the main character here and learning more about him.
As for Chloe's Character i just loved her, her back story, her strength and weaknesses, her interactions with Espi.
Overall i think this book is a must read and one that leaves you wanting to re read it again as soon as you finish it.

[Christina Szczepan-santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow I loved this book! I'm glad I read the first book first. I feel like I had a better understanding of the characters. This is a hard review because I do not want to give any spoilers away. I can't wait to see what comes next in future books!

[lily bookscation · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think the first book is better. I'm a little bit confused about the rival between the Russians, Italian and I forget who else in this story. Who's the bad guy here who's the big player etc etc

Ksenia's character is too dark and Espi is not an angel like we used to think in the first book. He has his darkness too.

The two broken soul meet and it should be an epic love story but sadly it took 3/4 of the book to get them together.

The ending is too rush and I still need more explanation.. Does Ksei pregnant? What happened to Dante and Danny? Where they go? etc etc

[Silvia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to know about Dante and Danny. What happened to them?

[Nadia Debowska-Stephens (Obsessed by Books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It’s pain.” I eye my sketchbook, picturing the drawings I’ve scribbled inside it. Dante. Arno. Danny. “It’s getting addicted to someone’s own personal brand of the shit. It’s letting it fuck you up. It’s wanting to be fucked up. Love is poison.”

Filled with haunting imagery of fallen angels, hell and all those that revel in the pain Refrain is a darkly delicious read that takes you into the shadows. Clawing her way to freedom is harder than she ever imagined as she can’t escape being haunted by her past, but she can’t walk away, forever running from the monster. Seeking the truth, being drawn to her past she runs right back into the chaos she had once become unshackled from. She finds respite from her uncertainty in the most unlikely place. He is a stranger that is the eye in her storm, deceptively calm he’s a damaged angel to her and she seeks him for salvation whilst chasing her destruction. Both caught in the under world where the constant power struggle is reaching a crescendo there’s more at play than anyone can guess.

This story lures you in to another reality where life is a commodity, a tool and weapon. Used as leverage to obtain what ever is wanted the mob, mafia and cartels are all stained in blood to keep their place. Both tortured souls find each other in the darkness and try not to snuff out the spluttering flame that sparks between. Creating a new addiction to replace their old vices one hit is never enough as they spiral into a need that neither can deny. Smoke and ashes, violence and vengeance is their common goal as both are motivated by loyalty and love for their family.

Refrain is my first novel by this author and I can’t believe I’ve been missing out. Her writing style is gripping, her words creating a story that I lost myself in. I am left wanting more and needing to know more as their story had only just begun. Addictive, seductive and emotive this story is one not to be missed.

A five star hate me read.

~*~ Reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by Books ~*~

[Joyffree · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fiery journey that captivates and enthralls from the opening scene to the closing
Welcome to the underbelly of the Mafia and Crime world. Where darkness prevails and morality is a running joke.

Espi was such a multi-faceted character for me. He has a touch of dark humor to him as well as a bit broody. He wants out - He does not want to become a part of the darkness that surrounds his life- He also suffers from a bit of savior syndrome though he will never admit it - He is practically perfect
Chloe is finally free - She has walked through the fire and come out anew - scarred and shrouded by the haunting shadows of her past yet stronger for her journey- I so loved the strength of her character she is feisty as all get out and despite all the horrors of her past she still holds a sense of right and wrong that surpasses her own sense of self-preservation
Can two damaged souls find salvation in one another or will the darkness prevail claiming their humanity?

I was new to this series and even though this is touted as a stand-alone I would recommend reading book one first. IMO this made it easier to connect with the main characters as well as form a more comprehensive understanding of the events that led them to where they are. Sky though does an amazing job of providing this information within the story Refrain if that is not an option. I read a comp copy of this book.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Refrain is definitely a hard book to review, and maybe it wouldn't have been as complicated for me to review if I had read the first book beforehand (though it did give a good outline of what had happened), but I'm still going to go ahead and suggest that now for others. It's the story of two people who have serious dark pasts. Chloe Parker, who will do anything for her sister, and Espi, who walks a solitary life on the out skirts of the crime world. I know that sounds a bit confusing, but he's in that world without being too much in that world. And he spends most of his time alone, until he comes across Chloe. They're both broken souls, who somehow find peace in each other. There are dark twists around every corner all the way to the very end, so be ready, and if you're like me, the f-bombs will be dropping. Like there were so many that at times, I got a bit confused (but I think that's because I should have read Book 1). And while I felt the pain of Chloe, I didn't really become imprinted on her or Espi for whatever reason. Anyway, I've decided that I'm going to read the first book in the series (Yes I know I keep saying this but it's because I really believe it), then come back & read this book again, because I do believe that I will have a different perspective, as Lana Sky's talent did keep me turning the pages through it all! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Michelle1005 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am very impressed with this dark romance by Lana Sky. Every part claimed piece by piece my reader’s heart the characters, story, writing, all of that. It was an amazing story about broken lives and shatters souls. Lana Sky will take you to the essence of the heart of crime and violence. Everyone are playing in the game of money and power doesn’t matter is they’re Russians, Italians or Americans. But sometimes casualties will happen. It’s inevitable. Like Chloe Parker. She walks through fire for her sister and then she meets Espi. They are totally opposite from each other but at the same time work great together. They have so much darkness inside. But they still try to fight and find their own light. Lana Sky expertly portrays dark violent ugliness with all the beauty that lingers. I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner and I cannot express how much I cannot wait for more books from this series whose work I definitely recommend for all the readers who love some dark stories.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 in Sky's series Beautiful Monsters. A beautifully dark listen that is sure to captivate if you're prepared to go into the mob / cartel world Sky has created and see the struggle for power and dominance as well as the demons that haunt these characters. Smooth flowing storyline that's told from a multi point of view. I was left wanting more and more.
As for the narration / audio - there was something off in the audio version in chpt (i think) and while I normally love a dual narrated audio - the female narrator on this came thru very robotic and difficult to listen to whereas the male narrator was the complete opposite and was very impressive with his accent, pitch and tone changes used for the multiple characters. He did a great job.
I feel that while this could be read / listened to as a stand alone, it is better when read in series order as several of these characters are introduced in book one.

This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read

[Ari · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know what? After Crescendo ended up on my best books list last year, i’m not very surprised that I freaking loved Espi and Chloe.

Lana Sky is a great writer, and the way she will lure you into her dark romances is something to behold. This book like the last was quite long, but no one can say it wasn’t disappointing. I need to read this book not during my exams because i need more time to visit and revisit my favourite scenes.

But to start with this ultra short review, let’s just say that Espi, the guy we knew and loved has changed quite a bit. His hatred for his brother aside, he’s dropped painting and taken up illegal activities to... make his way in the world..? Meh. Anyways, he meets Chloe on on of those works and the rest is history.

Sure there a few things i could always complain about this book, but then again which book cannot he complained about. Sky’s writing more than makes up for any oddities i found in the plot.

[Jessica Rampersad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Spice 4/5
Character Development 5/5

[I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book]

“Refrain” is the second book in Lana Sky’s Beautiful Monsters series. In this book, Espi Vialle is caught in the middle of a brutal gang war. Espi is torn between helping a woman with a broken past and escaping a world of crime that he no longer wants to be a part of.

I love Lana Sky’s writing. I was intrigued with Espi’s character in book 1 (“Crescendo”) and I’m glad Lana gave us his story. The storyline was written really well and I enjoyed the character development throughout this book. This book is filled with many twists and turns and it is just as dark as book 1. This is a dark dark dark romance novel and it’s more dark than romance. Make sure to check content warnings before jumping in.

[Little Blue Butterfly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy for an honest and voluntary review

This is the 2nd book of the Beautiful Monsters Series. This book does a good job of giving you the cliff notes version of the events of Crescendo (book 1), but I highly recommend reading that book first!! You’ll really want those meaty details to enjoy this book even more!! Refrain is about Dante’s brother, Espi. Dante is all in in the mafia war with his enemies. Espi doesn’t really want to be caught up in it like his brother. He meets Chloe. Chloe and Espi both have tragic pasts, and are each other’s saving grace ♥️ This series has been fantastic, as all of Lana Sky’s books are!! I am left desperately wanting a book 3!! I absolutely could not put this book down!! I very much recommend this book/series!!

[Amanda Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love mafia and dark romances and this was definitely a good one. This is my first read by this author and i'll definitely be going back to read the first book.

I feel it would have been beneficial to have read the first book first, at least for some background on the characters. But the author did a good job in letting the reader know what had happened so I wasn't lost or confused.

I was pulled into the story right away and very invested in what was happening. I like how the author showed finding the light within the darkness. Chloe and Espi were so different but worked well together, both broken in their own way

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

When author Lana Sky releases a book, I never read the book's blurb. I do not care. I know, without a doubt, that I am going to enjoy it.

Refrain is no different, though it took me for a ride. I expected to get more of Daniella and Dante's story, and in a way I did...But this book picks up with Espi, Dante's younger brother and a young woman named Chloe. With Lana's magic, Espi and Chloe's worlds coincide with the events surrounding Dante and Daniella. To get a clear picture of what's really going on in this world of mobs and gangs, you need more perspectives, and this definitely give it to you.

As always with a Lana Sky novel, I am left waiting anxiously for more.

[anahi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved Espi in book 1 so knowing he was our main lead in book 2 was very exciting. Espi & Chloe ughh my heart i wanted more time with them together. 😩 Only half the book really gave us that. I mean two broken people finding comfort in each other in a messed up world of crime, mafias, murder and more?! Yessss it’s like these two NEED each other & they know it instantly. Ending was what i was hoping to see as the outcome after everything they went through but of course i will always crave more of this world. Felt it was missing perhaps an epilogue to wrap of their story maybe? But still a fun read for me.

[Maria (Ri) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I had high hopes on this book but for some reason was expecting more. I thought Danny and Dante would have more of their story explained. That being said, Espi and Chloe didn't really connect with me. I struggled trying to keep the story strAight And all the characters which was a shame as I really like this author and normally I'm don't have those issues with her writing.

While this book didn't work for me, I'm sure there are others out there that will enjoy it. There in lies the beauty of books.

[Jocelyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Beautiful Monster Series, a Dark Romance. This is a Series of interconnected stories, with intertwined characters. I loved Espi and Chloe’s story. Chloe is such a wonderful character, strong, smart, and capable. Espi is handsome, dark, protective, and caring. I loved to see again the characters from Crescendo. The storyline is captivating, and entertaining. Impossible to put it down. Bree Elaine and Patrick Morgan did a fantastic job with the narration. If you like Dark Romance, this Series is definitely for you!

[Sandy Lieberman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read...5++Stars!
Lana Sky is a phenomenal author who writes dark, pain-filled books. This book is brutal, full of anger, grief, torment, and horrific torments. You will fall in love with Espi and Chloe. There is so much emotions. I was held prisoner by this story until I finished it. I just could not see how it was going to end. I loved it and recommend you read Book 1, Crescendo so you will be introduced to Espi's brother Dante and see how he plays a part in this book.

[Sammi Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book Refrain by Lana Sky. It was captivating and thrilling to read. She has a way of being able to push her characters to be darker than what most people are comfortable, it gets to a point that you find out that one of the characters is so good at torture because of what he went through. But that's what keeps you intrigued to keep on reading. Lana Sky is able to make her characters dark and flawed as people but lovable at the same time, that you can't help yourself to root for them.