What do you think?
Rate this book
Blackthorn Elite #3
Sinister Obsession
It was such a shame that she was in the wrong place, at the wrong time. She knew that we would come for her.We had seen her delicate face that night, hidden in the shadows, and she had seen what we did, her gasp of horror giving her away. She was perfection, beauty, and oozed goodness but that wasn’t going to save her from us. No one could ever find out our secret, which meant we needed to get rid of her. Killing her wasn’t an option and scaring her into silence wasn’t as easy of a task as we expected. She was strong, resilient, and smart doing whatever she could to evade us. Without even knowing it she turned it into a game, and so we became blood thirty wolves. Run and we’ll find you. Keep our secret and you might live. That is until someone else finds out what we did…**This is a standalone DARK bully romance. This book contains scenes that may be triggering to some readers. This is not a YA romance novel and should be read by those only 18+ or older. **
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 17, 2020
970 people are currently reading
2082 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Beck
236 books7,161 followersJ.L. Beck is the USA Today Best Selling author of unapologetic romance. She lives in WI with her husband, two kids, and four dogs. She enjoys writing and recently starting a literary agency to help represent authors in the industry.
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 286 reviews
Read
April 17, 2021I guess this means I’m back to reading smut.
*e-book generously provided by the promo team in exchange for an honest review*
I forgot how these smutty novels all played out. Been out of the game for far too long. LOL
I call dibs on the Savages threesome gifs. Forgive the hipster hippie clothes. HERE YOU GO. Freshly served by the Evil Witch:
“…have to touch myself to pretend you're there.”
Burning Desire – Lana Del Rey
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
Bad boys do bad stuff. A girl sees them do bad stuff. They make it their mission to… keep her quiet by all means necessary.
I usually don’t read dark bully romance. Therefore, I’m not an expert. (NOT THAT I’M AN EXPERT IN ANY OTHER GENRE EITHER HAHA). My binary comments feel out of place here because this is a hardcore (for me) venture into dark romance where the lines are blurry and since I ‘liked’ reading it (shame me feminists haha) I will spare everyone from my usual rants. The scenes were steamy as hell. The chemistry of the threesome was intense. I’d usually complain that the female lead falls into certain clichés with the authors trying to make us have sympathy for the girl, but I won’t because I actually liked Stella. At first, I had trouble differentiating Easton from Cameron in their POVs, however, the more I read the more their differences emerged. I hadn’t read the previous books, so I wasn’t at all familiar with the Blackthorn world. (Now that I’m writing this review I’ve read all three of the books). Bottom line (the word choice ugh): hot scenes, strong chemistry, lot of back and forth between the characters, a fun time if you like dark bully romance! (Fun time!?!?! Shakes head at the word choice. It's a BULLY romance LOL)
Instagram
Facebook
Goodreads
Bookbub
Amazon
*e-book generously provided by the promo team in exchange for an honest review*
I forgot how these smutty novels all played out. Been out of the game for far too long. LOL
I call dibs on the Savages threesome gifs. Forgive the hipster hippie clothes. HERE YOU GO. Freshly served by the Evil Witch:
“…have to touch myself to pretend you're there.”
Burning Desire – Lana Del Rey
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
Bad boys do bad stuff. A girl sees them do bad stuff. They make it their mission to… keep her quiet by all means necessary.
I usually don’t read dark bully romance. Therefore, I’m not an expert. (NOT THAT I’M AN EXPERT IN ANY OTHER GENRE EITHER HAHA). My binary comments feel out of place here because this is a hardcore (for me) venture into dark romance where the lines are blurry and since I ‘liked’ reading it (shame me feminists haha) I will spare everyone from my usual rants. The scenes were steamy as hell. The chemistry of the threesome was intense. I’d usually complain that the female lead falls into certain clichés with the authors trying to make us have sympathy for the girl, but I won’t because I actually liked Stella. At first, I had trouble differentiating Easton from Cameron in their POVs, however, the more I read the more their differences emerged. I hadn’t read the previous books, so I wasn’t at all familiar with the Blackthorn world. (Now that I’m writing this review I’ve read all three of the books). Bottom line (the word choice ugh): hot scenes, strong chemistry, lot of back and forth between the characters, a fun time if you like dark bully romance! (Fun time!?!?! Shakes head at the word choice. It's a BULLY romance LOL)
Goodreads
Bookbub
Amazon
December 29, 2019
You will totally want to read this one if you like bully romances, or dark romance.
MFM. Two possessive alphas. I mean do you really need more of a reason to one-click?
Preorder:[https://amzn.to/37ETAhL
MFM. Two possessive alphas. I mean do you really need more of a reason to one-click?
Preorder:[https://amzn.to/37ETAhL
January 9, 2020
There are certain things you expect when you read a book by these two authors, and they deliver all of that and more in Hurting You. They jump right into the gritty, dirty stuff, and it never lets up. This story features Cam and Easton and their relationship with Stella, the girl who crossed paths with them in the wrong place and at the wrong time.
Cam and Easton are best friends who pretty much share everything with each other. Though they do have some similarities, for the most part they are very different. Cam is kind, charming and will make your heart swoon. But Easton on the other hand is dark, controlling and a complete alpha jerk. Enter Stella. She witnesses something the guys never wanted to be seen. For this, they demand her silence and do whatever means is necessary in order to keep it that way. She is now their toy to play with and control. But somewhere along the way real feelings develop, and that is certainly not part of the plan.
I loved every word of this book. There is a little something for everyone... Drama, angst, darkness and some hot af steamy moments. This dangerously dark and delicious tale will definitely sink its claws into you, hooking you from the very first page. These authors crafted a well written story that had my heart aching and racing, and my emotions constantly churning. I positively inhaled this story, and in the end was left begging for more.
Cam and Easton are best friends who pretty much share everything with each other. Though they do have some similarities, for the most part they are very different. Cam is kind, charming and will make your heart swoon. But Easton on the other hand is dark, controlling and a complete alpha jerk. Enter Stella. She witnesses something the guys never wanted to be seen. For this, they demand her silence and do whatever means is necessary in order to keep it that way. She is now their toy to play with and control. But somewhere along the way real feelings develop, and that is certainly not part of the plan.
I loved every word of this book. There is a little something for everyone... Drama, angst, darkness and some hot af steamy moments. This dangerously dark and delicious tale will definitely sink its claws into you, hooking you from the very first page. These authors crafted a well written story that had my heart aching and racing, and my emotions constantly churning. I positively inhaled this story, and in the end was left begging for more.
April 15, 2020
Most bully romance always has asshole male protagonist. However, I except the asshole, jerk male protagonist to have some redeeming qualities. Unfortunately, Easton and Cameron don't have any redeeming qualities, instead, they are rich and jerks and stays the same way till the end. There was a moment Stella becomes strong but then she becomes weak within moments.
When I finished the book I felt it was dragged because nothing actually happens. There wasn't any romantic development between the protagonists, it rather seemed forced. If Easton and Cameron softened up towards Stella earlier instead of continuing struggle whether they can trust her or not it might have been more enjoyable. This book wasn't that enjoyable rather plain. The beginning was good but it became boring towards the end.
When I finished the book I felt it was dragged because nothing actually happens. There wasn't any romantic development between the protagonists, it rather seemed forced. If Easton and Cameron softened up towards Stella earlier instead of continuing struggle whether they can trust her or not it might have been more enjoyable. This book wasn't that enjoyable rather plain. The beginning was good but it became boring towards the end.
January 31, 2020
I really hate writing reviews that are under 4 stars but unfortunately that's the case with this one.
I have really struggled with this whole series because I don't think there is anything romantic about any of these books. It is glorifying toxic and abusive relationships and demeaning women. It's giving women the idea that they should allow to be treated this way because it's better than the alternative, and to me that is one of the worst messages you can give. It was also entirely too predictable.
This is a straight up bully story. The "bully-romance" trope usually is a thin line, because if you make your male lead an a-hole, you want him to have some redeeming qualities. That was not the case for either Easton or Cameron. They were rich, rude jerks who thought they were entitled to whatever they wanted, and that's not attractive.
Also, if this was a standard bully romance, you want you female lead to have a backbone and give as good as she gets. Stella had one moment where she stood up for herself and then it was back to square one. I was really disappointed in her character. There was no chemistry between the boys and Stella, every scene was forced and I felt uncomfortable reading it.
The thing is, I have really enjoyed these authors books in the past, but I think that I need to stop trying with this series as it just makes me angry with how demeaning it is towards women. I won't be reading book 4 anytime soon.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I have really struggled with this whole series because I don't think there is anything romantic about any of these books. It is glorifying toxic and abusive relationships and demeaning women. It's giving women the idea that they should allow to be treated this way because it's better than the alternative, and to me that is one of the worst messages you can give. It was also entirely too predictable.
This is a straight up bully story. The "bully-romance" trope usually is a thin line, because if you make your male lead an a-hole, you want him to have some redeeming qualities. That was not the case for either Easton or Cameron. They were rich, rude jerks who thought they were entitled to whatever they wanted, and that's not attractive.
Also, if this was a standard bully romance, you want you female lead to have a backbone and give as good as she gets. Stella had one moment where she stood up for herself and then it was back to square one. I was really disappointed in her character. There was no chemistry between the boys and Stella, every scene was forced and I felt uncomfortable reading it.
The thing is, I have really enjoyed these authors books in the past, but I think that I need to stop trying with this series as it just makes me angry with how demeaning it is towards women. I won't be reading book 4 anytime soon.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
January 17, 2020
O.M.F.G. I absolutely love this series!! Just when I think I know what’s about to come it takes a twist and throws me for a loop!! Each book gets a bit darker in the most amazing ways. I can’t wait for more in this series!! 🖤🔥🖤
January 16, 2020
God damn...
Well is not what I expected, but I say that in the best way.
I went into this blind. Both authors are new to me and I think they may have just become auto one-clicks.
This book was full of emotion, angst, heat and dark... Truth be told I was not expecting it to be dark but the authors literally threw me through a tunnel of unexpected events and kept me the edge of my seat and frantically flip page by page.
Cameron and Easton are best friends and have been for a long time, they are total opposites, Easton is domineering, demanding and as alpha as they come and Cameron is kind, tender and caring. They share almost everything and when I say everything... I mean, everything. Even going as far as sharing the same women. So when Stella comes into the picture and comes walking into a situation that could land the two men in serious trouble. They need to make sure Stella keeps her mouth shut... So they take her, making her their play toy, and making her realize that keeping her mouth shut is the only way.
Stella is naive and struggling to make it in life. She lives with her grandma and works a simple job. She was in the wrong place at the wrong time and after witnessing something that could get Cameron and Easton in some serious trouble, her life and what she knows of it comes crashing down and the two men take her and make her and mold her into something that they can use for their gain and a way to ensure she doesn't utter a word. Will she survive this? Will Cameron and Easton kill her? Will in some twisted way this be a start to love and bond like no other or will Stella get away and speak about what she witnessed.
You will have to read to find out!
This book was most definitely not what I expected. The dark element to it through me off a bit but I think it made even more amazing than what I thought it was going to be. I am a sucker for a dark romance and this one ticked all the right boxes and then some!
The two authors work so well together, weaving their words and creating a story with a plot so thick I was just about drowning. The angst level was high. It was unpredictable, intense, dark and all-consuming and had me eating up every word.
Loved this!
Must read!
5/5 Stars!
Well is not what I expected, but I say that in the best way.
I went into this blind. Both authors are new to me and I think they may have just become auto one-clicks.
This book was full of emotion, angst, heat and dark... Truth be told I was not expecting it to be dark but the authors literally threw me through a tunnel of unexpected events and kept me the edge of my seat and frantically flip page by page.
Cameron and Easton are best friends and have been for a long time, they are total opposites, Easton is domineering, demanding and as alpha as they come and Cameron is kind, tender and caring. They share almost everything and when I say everything... I mean, everything. Even going as far as sharing the same women. So when Stella comes into the picture and comes walking into a situation that could land the two men in serious trouble. They need to make sure Stella keeps her mouth shut... So they take her, making her their play toy, and making her realize that keeping her mouth shut is the only way.
Stella is naive and struggling to make it in life. She lives with her grandma and works a simple job. She was in the wrong place at the wrong time and after witnessing something that could get Cameron and Easton in some serious trouble, her life and what she knows of it comes crashing down and the two men take her and make her and mold her into something that they can use for their gain and a way to ensure she doesn't utter a word. Will she survive this? Will Cameron and Easton kill her? Will in some twisted way this be a start to love and bond like no other or will Stella get away and speak about what she witnessed.
You will have to read to find out!
This book was most definitely not what I expected. The dark element to it through me off a bit but I think it made even more amazing than what I thought it was going to be. I am a sucker for a dark romance and this one ticked all the right boxes and then some!
The two authors work so well together, weaving their words and creating a story with a plot so thick I was just about drowning. The angst level was high. It was unpredictable, intense, dark and all-consuming and had me eating up every word.
Loved this!
Must read!
5/5 Stars!
August 17, 2022
I really liked this story. It was completely to my taste. The boys were protective and jealous, the girl was a virgin - my favorite combination !!! and there was no misunderstanding as in past history, they were not offended by Stella, they were her persecutors !!! I love men's hunting and domination of a defenseless girl, even when they force her a little)))
May 23, 2022
The moment Stella witness something she shouldn’t have are to run. There is no escaping two males standing before her. They know she saw them and determined to keep her from telling anyone . Stellas life will change from this moment.
I enjoyed every word of this book. From the first word to he last. Great dark romance , Thats did push me to my limits. It did take me a while to warm up to Cameron and Easton , However that is to be expected . Stella did bring out the good in them . I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed every word of this book. From the first word to he last. Great dark romance , Thats did push me to my limits. It did take me a while to warm up to Cameron and Easton , However that is to be expected . Stella did bring out the good in them . I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2020
Hurting you was a delicious MFM Bully romance. I have been obsessed with the Blackthorn series and liked this unique story. Stella, Easton and Cam were delicious together. Easton and Cam were amazing in particular. Opposites in temperament but exactly a perfect match for Stella together.
I enjoyed that this story coincided with the storyline in book two. It was great to see different scenes from different perspectives. All in all, this was a lighter bully read compared to the previous two books but was a great story nonetheless. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
I enjoyed that this story coincided with the storyline in book two. It was great to see different scenes from different perspectives. All in all, this was a lighter bully read compared to the previous two books but was a great story nonetheless. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
January 8, 2020
What an incredibly sexy and deeply emotional ride! I had an inkling of what I might expect with this story, but what I found within these magical pages left me completely and utterly enthralled. It was so much more powerful and deep than I ever expected. This story doubled the intensity and darkness that we have seen in previous books. It left me with shivers and gooseflesh as I watched the fateful events that unfolded before my eyes. What an beautifully intense experience that I never wanted to end!
What is left to expect or work towards whenever you find yourself at the bottom of every possible list in the world? You look up and keep fighting. That's the only answer that Stella can find. She refuses to stop clawing her way up from the ashes of her past and present. Cam and Easton know where they are heading. Their future is pretty much set in place from here til eternity. They try to spice up their otherwise boring life with girls and power, but one day and one person changes everything. Fate throws these three people together and what you get are dangerous fireworks and and an unending fire that can't be quenched or tamed. Can their darkness save Stalla, or will she find herself in worse shape after Cam and Easton are done with her?
Just like the previous books in this series, I was caught off guard by the power of these wonderful characters. They are more then just people. They are forces of nature that left unattended threaten to destroy, but together they bring about wonder and peace. I couldn't get over how much I felt and experienced walking this journey, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. it is a precious gift that I do not take lightly. In fact, I see it as a huge compliment to an author who can turn my world upside down as thoroughly as Beck and Hallman can.
Nothing is as satisfying as reading a book by Beck and Hallman, and this series has left me spellbound and excited for so much more! This writing duo have more creativity and tenacity then some authors I have found, and I cherish that drive and heart like nothing else. This series has turned into so much more then I ever imagined, and this book feels like the heart and soul of this series. Do not miss out on this wonderful work of art and heart!
What is left to expect or work towards whenever you find yourself at the bottom of every possible list in the world? You look up and keep fighting. That's the only answer that Stella can find. She refuses to stop clawing her way up from the ashes of her past and present. Cam and Easton know where they are heading. Their future is pretty much set in place from here til eternity. They try to spice up their otherwise boring life with girls and power, but one day and one person changes everything. Fate throws these three people together and what you get are dangerous fireworks and and an unending fire that can't be quenched or tamed. Can their darkness save Stalla, or will she find herself in worse shape after Cam and Easton are done with her?
Just like the previous books in this series, I was caught off guard by the power of these wonderful characters. They are more then just people. They are forces of nature that left unattended threaten to destroy, but together they bring about wonder and peace. I couldn't get over how much I felt and experienced walking this journey, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. it is a precious gift that I do not take lightly. In fact, I see it as a huge compliment to an author who can turn my world upside down as thoroughly as Beck and Hallman can.
Nothing is as satisfying as reading a book by Beck and Hallman, and this series has left me spellbound and excited for so much more! This writing duo have more creativity and tenacity then some authors I have found, and I cherish that drive and heart like nothing else. This series has turned into so much more then I ever imagined, and this book feels like the heart and soul of this series. Do not miss out on this wonderful work of art and heart!
January 16, 2020
Hurting you by J.L. Beck/C. Hallman will pull you in like no other in this third installment of the Blackthorn Elite series which is raw, gritty and full of suspense. This story surrounds Cameron and Easton and what transpired one night that will change one person's life. Stella who works at the school is just trying to make ends meet as she is tired and worn from taking care of her grandmother who is suffering from dementia. Between being harassed by her boss and looked down upon by the students at Blackthorn her only thought is to make it through each day and make a better life for her and her grandmother. But now Stella's life is going to change forever when she happens to be at the wrong place when she witnesses Cameron and Easton beating a young man. When Cameron and Easton discover that Stella has seen everything, the game is on do they shut her up for good or can they scare her in to not telling anyone what she saw through bullying, threats and sex. When they see Stella being abused by her boss they take matters into their own hands as they inform Stella she will be living with them as she will be at their beck and call until she proves to them she can be trusted. But these two privileged men are about to realize that the more time they spend with Stella the game is changing as they become obsessed with her and vow that no one will touch or harm her as she is theirs. Stella is starting to have feelings for both of them even though she is being tormented and constantly being tested as she starts to question her sanity, can she want them both? As these three embark in a triad relationship, Stella is torn should she stay as she believes she won't have a future with Cameron and Easton once they are done with her, or should she try to escape when given the chance? . Now Cameron and Easton are racing against time to find the woman who has stolen their heart, will they get to her in time or will Stella be lost to them forever? This was a very emotional story filled with drama, danger, violence, steam and twists and turns that will have you on edge from beginning to end. Once again J.L Beck and C. Hallman has done an outstanding job telling this story as only they can. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 16, 2020
Overall Grade: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Okay, okay. So romance. It’s one of those things where there is something for everyone. If you love that delicious smut, you’ll find it. If you want a romance with some greater message, written with the most beautiful of prose, you can find it. It doesn’t matter what you’re in to, everyone’s kink can be found in romancelandia.
I think one of the tropes that romance readers sometimes struggle to accept is bully romance. I’ve seen romance authors post out on Facebook, curious over people’s interest in it. I responded to such an author with my answer: bully romance is delicious because the alpha-hole who is doing the bullying is usually brought to his knees in a way that is more profound than your average romance hero. At least, that’s the reason I adore bully romance, even when I’m cringing over the behavior of the hero towards the heroine.
J.L. Beck and C. Hallman have brought us the zenith of bully romance with the third book in their series of standalones, Hurting You. The first two books in this series, Hating You and Breaking You, were the quintessential bully romance books. Both incorporate heroes who despise their heroines, but they can’t resist them. Your heart can’t help but weep for their treatment of the heroines. It’s abusive, yet the inner torture of the heroes who need those heroines in their lives is more delicious than the gravity of the abuse poured out on the heroines. One minute, you cringe, while in the next minute, your figurative lenses are fogged up by the steam between the hero and heroine. It’s this odd, but entertaining cycle.
Enter Beck’s and Hallman’s newest book, Hurting You. To say that these two authors raised their game is an understatement. In this book, there are two very alpha, very masculine heroes who have committed a crime. Unfortunately, our heroine comes upon them as they are preparing to dispose of the crime scene, and they decide to threaten her life and possess her. Unlike the heroes in the first two books, these guys are ruthless and overpowering, not to mention that there are two of them. This story borders dubious consent. Yet, Beck and Hallman toe the line carefully, showing us the heroine’s interest in the treatment of her heroes.
As is the case with the first two books in this series, this is one steamy romance. Hurting You is $exy and deliciously forbidden-feeling. There are moments when you feel uncomfortable because Easton and Cameron can be awful to Stella, the heroine. This is a heroine who must journey towards self-confidence. It takes most of the story for her to achieve her heroic superstrength, but for much of the story, there is a distinctive push and pull between her and the guys. In my opinion, they are greater bullies than Parker or Warren, the heroes from the first two books.
Hurting You is also MFM romance, so Beck and Hallman have added to the usual bully trope. This adds another layer of steam to the book. I love reading this type of romance because it seems so improbable in real life. Yet Beck and Hallman write it so well that you almost wish you could be Stella in the story (well, almost).
Overall, Hurting You is just good plain torturous fun. It finds its happy ending. In order to get there, though, you have to grit your teeth a bit and accept that Stella can fall for Easton and Cameron. If you’re into the pleasure of dark bully romance with some MFM on the side, then Hurting You is DEFINITELY your book. It sure was mine!
Okay, okay. So romance. It’s one of those things where there is something for everyone. If you love that delicious smut, you’ll find it. If you want a romance with some greater message, written with the most beautiful of prose, you can find it. It doesn’t matter what you’re in to, everyone’s kink can be found in romancelandia.
I think one of the tropes that romance readers sometimes struggle to accept is bully romance. I’ve seen romance authors post out on Facebook, curious over people’s interest in it. I responded to such an author with my answer: bully romance is delicious because the alpha-hole who is doing the bullying is usually brought to his knees in a way that is more profound than your average romance hero. At least, that’s the reason I adore bully romance, even when I’m cringing over the behavior of the hero towards the heroine.
J.L. Beck and C. Hallman have brought us the zenith of bully romance with the third book in their series of standalones, Hurting You. The first two books in this series, Hating You and Breaking You, were the quintessential bully romance books. Both incorporate heroes who despise their heroines, but they can’t resist them. Your heart can’t help but weep for their treatment of the heroines. It’s abusive, yet the inner torture of the heroes who need those heroines in their lives is more delicious than the gravity of the abuse poured out on the heroines. One minute, you cringe, while in the next minute, your figurative lenses are fogged up by the steam between the hero and heroine. It’s this odd, but entertaining cycle.
Enter Beck’s and Hallman’s newest book, Hurting You. To say that these two authors raised their game is an understatement. In this book, there are two very alpha, very masculine heroes who have committed a crime. Unfortunately, our heroine comes upon them as they are preparing to dispose of the crime scene, and they decide to threaten her life and possess her. Unlike the heroes in the first two books, these guys are ruthless and overpowering, not to mention that there are two of them. This story borders dubious consent. Yet, Beck and Hallman toe the line carefully, showing us the heroine’s interest in the treatment of her heroes.
As is the case with the first two books in this series, this is one steamy romance. Hurting You is $exy and deliciously forbidden-feeling. There are moments when you feel uncomfortable because Easton and Cameron can be awful to Stella, the heroine. This is a heroine who must journey towards self-confidence. It takes most of the story for her to achieve her heroic superstrength, but for much of the story, there is a distinctive push and pull between her and the guys. In my opinion, they are greater bullies than Parker or Warren, the heroes from the first two books.
Hurting You is also MFM romance, so Beck and Hallman have added to the usual bully trope. This adds another layer of steam to the book. I love reading this type of romance because it seems so improbable in real life. Yet Beck and Hallman write it so well that you almost wish you could be Stella in the story (well, almost).
Overall, Hurting You is just good plain torturous fun. It finds its happy ending. In order to get there, though, you have to grit your teeth a bit and accept that Stella can fall for Easton and Cameron. If you’re into the pleasure of dark bully romance with some MFM on the side, then Hurting You is DEFINITELY your book. It sure was mine!
January 13, 2020
Received this ARC from Author(s) for Honest Review.
I Give this Book a 3.5/5 Star Rating, Listing as 3.
HEA(?): Yes.
Relationship Type: MFM, No M/M.
Heat: 3.5-4ish/5
Romance: 3-3.5/5
Drama: 3/5
Suspense: 3/5
Dark: 1.5/5, I was expecting this to be dark but (to me) it wasn’t really.
While I did enjoy this book it did feel a bit..cramped/compacted cause it felt like the characters just did the same thing over and over like a loop, and I didn’t get much sense of growth in the character development (to me) and also between them.
So when you finished the book and think back, the characters didn’t really do much, the book for me dragged yet at the same time was fast paced.
Some questions didn’t feel fully answered nor resolved.
I just didn’t get much romance development, till near and at the end, it did feel a tad forced and rushed.
While it’s a good book, it’s didn’t fully meet my expectations.
I definitely look forward to more works from these Authors!
I Give this Book a 3.5/5 Star Rating, Listing as 3.
HEA(?): Yes.
Relationship Type: MFM, No M/M.
Heat: 3.5-4ish/5
Romance: 3-3.5/5
Drama: 3/5
Suspense: 3/5
Dark: 1.5/5, I was expecting this to be dark but (to me) it wasn’t really.
While I did enjoy this book it did feel a bit..cramped/compacted cause it felt like the characters just did the same thing over and over like a loop, and I didn’t get much sense of growth in the character development (to me) and also between them.
So when you finished the book and think back, the characters didn’t really do much, the book for me dragged yet at the same time was fast paced.
Some questions didn’t feel fully answered nor resolved.
I just didn’t get much romance development, till near and at the end, it did feel a tad forced and rushed.
While it’s a good book, it’s didn’t fully meet my expectations.
I definitely look forward to more works from these Authors!
October 15, 2020
1 star
This started off so weird and poorly I honestly couldn't read more than the first three chapters. I skipped to the end and I'm glad I didn't waste my time reading it!
This started off so weird and poorly I honestly couldn't read more than the first three chapters. I skipped to the end and I'm glad I didn't waste my time reading it!
March 31, 2024
»Do you think it's possible to love something that was never meant to be yours?«
»You're wrong. She was always meant to be ours, that much is true.«
★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑺𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂
Hmm I kinda liked her but she was very weak and doesn‘t have a backbone. She‘s a sweet girl.
❥ 𝑪𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑬𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒏
Cameron is like a big doberman puppy. He has his caring and sweet side but can be dangerous too.
Easton is a cold asshole and I had a hard time liking him. He is emotionless most of the time and more brutal than Cameron.
Together they complete each other.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
I liked this book but it wasn‘t as good as the first two in the series.
The plot was okay but nothing special. I liked that it is a MMF romance but it could have been done better. Don‘t get me wrong I enjoyed reading but Easton got on my last nerves sometimes. The way they treated Stella sometimes was unfair and not understandable. The smut was hot. I think the personal relationship was not that well build in this book because the feelings weren‘t well expressed till the end.
It was good but not very good.
I‘m curious about the next book in this series.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓
plot: 3/5
spice: 3/5
humor: 3/5
couple/tension: 4/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
bully romance, college, enemies to lovers, protective and possessive hero, dark romance, secrets and lies, morally dark hero, rich x poor, high society, virgin fmc, MMF romance, reverse harem
𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: all in their twenties
cheating: no
sharing: with each other
kinks: double penetration
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Hating You ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Breaking You ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#3 Hurting You ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#4 Regretting You ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
»You're wrong. She was always meant to be ours, that much is true.«
★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑺𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒂
Hmm I kinda liked her but she was very weak and doesn‘t have a backbone. She‘s a sweet girl.
❥ 𝑪𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑬𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒏
Cameron is like a big doberman puppy. He has his caring and sweet side but can be dangerous too.
Easton is a cold asshole and I had a hard time liking him. He is emotionless most of the time and more brutal than Cameron.
Together they complete each other.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
I liked this book but it wasn‘t as good as the first two in the series.
The plot was okay but nothing special. I liked that it is a MMF romance but it could have been done better. Don‘t get me wrong I enjoyed reading but Easton got on my last nerves sometimes. The way they treated Stella sometimes was unfair and not understandable. The smut was hot. I think the personal relationship was not that well build in this book because the feelings weren‘t well expressed till the end.
It was good but not very good.
I‘m curious about the next book in this series.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓
plot: 3/5
spice: 3/5
humor: 3/5
couple/tension: 4/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
bully romance, college, enemies to lovers, protective and possessive hero, dark romance, secrets and lies, morally dark hero, rich x poor, high society, virgin fmc, MMF romance, reverse harem
𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: all in their twenties
cheating: no
sharing: with each other
kinks: double penetration
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
#1 Hating You ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#2 Breaking You ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#3 Hurting You ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
#4 Regretting You ★ ★ ★ ★
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 18, 2020
I enjoy bully romances a lot and the darker the better so I really enjoy the way this duo writes them. Stella accidentally witnesses something by accident and Cameron and Easton now want to make sure she keeps her mouth shut and will go by it by any means necessary. They basically torment and use her without realizing they are becoming more and more attached to her and she balances out there darkness. I enjoy crazy lol so I really liked Cam and Easton but Stella was a bit weak at first for me but I loved when she finally starts to fight back
January 9, 2021
Smutty, kinky and a little bit dark... Not my favorite book in the Blackthorn series. Let's see how the next one will be...
January 9, 2020
Always hard to write an under four review, I wanna tell you that first.
New author duet for me. Excited to read their book since Zon keep popping their books on my "similar to your read" list.
Bully romance is... How to put this🤔...tricky.
One thin line makes the bully a-hole you wanna punch but all too yummy for the suppose to be victim fight back.
But when that thin line Cross, that bully is just a-hole with no redemption what so ever.
And a heroin with backbone? It's the most important for me to makes the hero all hot in all his gloriness a-hole.
Hurting You unfortunetly don't give anything but shuddering in fear.
What Easton and Cameron did and do to Stella is way more than bullying. They aren't dominant a-hole.
And Stella... " Though I’m not completely their equal, I’m being given everything I could ever want or need, and that’s worth being grateful for because the alternative could be way worse."
This line scare me. Cause when a woman make feel she's so unworthy, degraded... making her feel grateful for anything else other than their demeaning way are just worse for her... That's scary to read
For me that's not romance.
But if pages of steamy with force chemistry between this MFM supposed to be bully romance, then this book is yours to read.
New author duet for me. Excited to read their book since Zon keep popping their books on my "similar to your read" list.
Bully romance is... How to put this🤔...tricky.
One thin line makes the bully a-hole you wanna punch but all too yummy for the suppose to be victim fight back.
But when that thin line Cross, that bully is just a-hole with no redemption what so ever.
And a heroin with backbone? It's the most important for me to makes the hero all hot in all his gloriness a-hole.
Hurting You unfortunetly don't give anything but shuddering in fear.
What Easton and Cameron did and do to Stella is way more than bullying. They aren't dominant a-hole.
And Stella... " Though I’m not completely their equal, I’m being given everything I could ever want or need, and that’s worth being grateful for because the alternative could be way worse."
This line scare me. Cause when a woman make feel she's so unworthy, degraded... making her feel grateful for anything else other than their demeaning way are just worse for her... That's scary to read
For me that's not romance.
But if pages of steamy with force chemistry between this MFM supposed to be bully romance, then this book is yours to read.
December 22, 2020
3.6 stars
Bully romances are my jam especially if it’s dark with rich alpha arrogant possessive assholes anti heroes and a strong heroine, coz the tougher they are the harder they fall. Alas I didn’t get that here.
Well I did get the rich alpha arrogant possessive assholes but they didn’t have enough redeeming qualities for me to really like or love them and the heroine sadly didn’t grow a backbone and she lets them sex her into submission. Also it’s not that dark. The romance and connection between the three MCs feels forced. There are no insight on the guys past / background, just that one of them have a chief of police as his dad who helps him to get away with a lot of things.
The pros - Smexy times were frequent and steamy hot and the writing flows easily, I read this in one sitting. I read the first book in this series but not the second one. Will I read the next one? I don’t know yet.
Bully romances are my jam especially if it’s dark with rich alpha arrogant possessive assholes anti heroes and a strong heroine, coz the tougher they are the harder they fall. Alas I didn’t get that here.
Well I did get the rich alpha arrogant possessive assholes but they didn’t have enough redeeming qualities for me to really like or love them and the heroine sadly didn’t grow a backbone and she lets them sex her into submission. Also it’s not that dark. The romance and connection between the three MCs feels forced. There are no insight on the guys past / background, just that one of them have a chief of police as his dad who helps him to get away with a lot of things.
The pros - Smexy times were frequent and steamy hot and the writing flows easily, I read this in one sitting. I read the first book in this series but not the second one. Will I read the next one? I don’t know yet.
January 23, 2020
No no no. These scenes are rape and no no no with a side of no.
January 19, 2020
I have read all the books by in the Blackthorn Elite series so I kind of knew what I was getting myself into with Hurting You. This book is unapologetically dark and gritty from the very beginning. It is also the hottest book in the series so far 🔥🔥🔥. This story is MFM and is told in multiple point of views. Dark bully romance is one of my favorite tropes and Beck and Hallman delivered.
I did really enjoy this book but there are two things preventing me from giving it 5 stars. The first is while I know this is a bully romance, there is a fine line between being a bully and just being an nonredeemable jerk. Easton skated that line for 98% of the book. I had a hard time believing his feelings for Stella. Cam on the other hand, while still a bully, showed character traits consistent with an alpha male with a soft spot for his woman. His words and actions matched, making it easy for the reader to see his true feelings.
As far as Stella goes, I would've liked to see her have more of a backbone. The girl already has it tough with her home life. After witnessing something she shouldn't have, to be indebted to these two complicated things even more. Talk about being at the wrong place at the wrong time. She certainly took a lot of BS from them and basically let them walk all over her. Even when she realized she was developing feelings for them, she didn't stand up to them or put up a fight. There was little character development and their actions seemed repetitive....the guys questioned her honesty and reinforced their power over her her with sex and pleasure.
With that being said, I did enjoy the story line and I read the book in one sitting. The intimate times between Cam, Easton, and Stella were beyond 🔥🔥🔥 and left me fanning myself. I would've liked to see more of an aha moment from Easton when he realized his feelings and more development of the relationship between the three of them in the future but I was satisfied with the ending of their story. I will read the next book this dynamic duo puts out.
Coming January 17th: https://amzn.to/2ssmulC
I did really enjoy this book but there are two things preventing me from giving it 5 stars. The first is while I know this is a bully romance, there is a fine line between being a bully and just being an nonredeemable jerk. Easton skated that line for 98% of the book. I had a hard time believing his feelings for Stella. Cam on the other hand, while still a bully, showed character traits consistent with an alpha male with a soft spot for his woman. His words and actions matched, making it easy for the reader to see his true feelings.
As far as Stella goes, I would've liked to see her have more of a backbone. The girl already has it tough with her home life. After witnessing something she shouldn't have, to be indebted to these two complicated things even more. Talk about being at the wrong place at the wrong time. She certainly took a lot of BS from them and basically let them walk all over her. Even when she realized she was developing feelings for them, she didn't stand up to them or put up a fight. There was little character development and their actions seemed repetitive....the guys questioned her honesty and reinforced their power over her her with sex and pleasure.
With that being said, I did enjoy the story line and I read the book in one sitting. The intimate times between Cam, Easton, and Stella were beyond 🔥🔥🔥 and left me fanning myself. I would've liked to see more of an aha moment from Easton when he realized his feelings and more development of the relationship between the three of them in the future but I was satisfied with the ending of their story. I will read the next book this dynamic duo puts out.
Coming January 17th: https://amzn.to/2ssmulC
January 13, 2020
Stella's life seemed to be on a constant battle between heartbreak and despair. Both parents deceased caring for her grandma and trying to make ends meet, alot for a young woman who should have been going to university, not working in the kitchen to try to provide and protect her gran.
Until after witnessing something she SHOULDN'T her whole life was taken totally out of her control and hands.
Introducing Easton and Cameron two of the scariest guys at Blackthorn university that she has every seen. Unfortunately for Stella they now have their lustful depravity filled eyes on Stella. They chase her down and install fear about keeping her silent about what she witnessed.
What was discovered that this innocent young woman although terrified never really understanding how deep down inside she believes they really won't hurt her more than she can handle.
This is a bully based read that leaves you emotionally divided between being captived by the characters in a MFM dark relationship between two men who like to share the same woman and disappointed with their behaviour.
A highly recommended read.
Until after witnessing something she SHOULDN'T her whole life was taken totally out of her control and hands.
Introducing Easton and Cameron two of the scariest guys at Blackthorn university that she has every seen. Unfortunately for Stella they now have their lustful depravity filled eyes on Stella. They chase her down and install fear about keeping her silent about what she witnessed.
What was discovered that this innocent young woman although terrified never really understanding how deep down inside she believes they really won't hurt her more than she can handle.
This is a bully based read that leaves you emotionally divided between being captived by the characters in a MFM dark relationship between two men who like to share the same woman and disappointed with their behaviour.
A highly recommended read.
January 21, 2020
I’m a sucker for these type of books. The MFM dynamic was sexy, sinful, possessive and dirty. All great things that make you not put a book down. Great read just like the others in this series. Super excited for the next book.
January 12, 2020
Hurting You picks up somewhere during Breaking You so we get answers left out from book two, which I’m happy about! I really enjoyed Stella, Easton and Cameron’s story. Their chemistry was off the charts and they made my heart hurt with all the push and pull! The story line flowed and I pretty much read this book in one sitting. Beck and Hallman are queens at writing some steamy ass stories! Really good!
January 21, 2020
Hurting You is the third story in the Blackthorn Elite series and I loved it. This time we get a menage by this duo of authors and what a menage it is. Hurting You kind of starts where the other leaves off, so if you haven't read that one you might be a little confused, but maybe not, I don't know. But I would read these in order.
Stella is innocent in all of what is going down in Blackthorn. But when she witnesses what Easton and Cameron are cleaning up from the last book, she puts herself right in the middle. So to make sure Stella keeps her mouth closed Cameron and Easton decide to keep her really really close.
Easton is a real a*s but Cameron makes up for it. Stella has a real connection with both of them, even when Easton is mean to her. I enjoyed this story! It is one of my favorites of J.L's and Cassie's!
June 27, 2021
I think this is arguably the best book of the series. My only true complaint was that the Hs, who were delightfully controlling, dominant, and aggressive, apologize for acting that way and morph into beta dudes at the end. They gave all the fun stuff up. 😅🤷🏼♀️ This happens in all their college books which is why I don’t sing their praises like I do my favorites. I understand and even want the H in a book to evolve a little, but I really don’t like to lobotomize them or emasculate them. That makes for a very disappointing ending. A tweak to the end might have actually put this book on my 5-star reread shelf. 🖤
January 8, 2020
I'm a sucker for mengé and been bugging J.L. Beck to write one for months. She finally took pity on me, and here it is, Hurting You. One of my fave!!!
November 2, 2020
This book was good for the erotic parts but what I didn't like was that the guys murdered somebody and it was no big deal , like what they did was right,my god didn't like that part.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 286 reviews