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Zetas #5
Twisted
Persia York has the face of an angel and a reputation that’s pure gutter but she will do anything for her family. Forced into debt-slavery to save her brother, things aren’t what they seem. No matter how hard she works, Persia can’t free herself. Worse, she publicly disses Jorge Santos, the leader of the Zeta cartel, and is catapulted into a turf war. Abducted and a helpless captive of the deadly drug lord, Persia decides she’s had enough. It’s time to fight back.
Dangerous, devious Jorge Santos doesn’t take shit from anyone. When a meeting with a rival turns ugly, Jorge goes to war. Determined on destruction, his first step is to abduct his enemy’s most prized possession, the beautiful but mouthy Persia York. But Jorge soon learns his victim is not as easy to break as he thought and to his shock, he falls for his adversary’s woman. As the war heats up, the cartel boss is forced to make decisions that may cost him his life – and his love.
A ruthless man on a quest to win no matter what it takes.
A woman intent on holding her own, even if it destroys her.
Twisted is a compelling tale of vengeance, murder, cartel violence and finding love in the darkest of times.
Warning: This bad boy dark romance contains explicit scenes of dubious consent and graphic violence.
Dangerous, devious Jorge Santos doesn’t take shit from anyone. When a meeting with a rival turns ugly, Jorge goes to war. Determined on destruction, his first step is to abduct his enemy’s most prized possession, the beautiful but mouthy Persia York. But Jorge soon learns his victim is not as easy to break as he thought and to his shock, he falls for his adversary’s woman. As the war heats up, the cartel boss is forced to make decisions that may cost him his life – and his love.
A ruthless man on a quest to win no matter what it takes.
A woman intent on holding her own, even if it destroys her.
Twisted is a compelling tale of vengeance, murder, cartel violence and finding love in the darkest of times.
Warning: This bad boy dark romance contains explicit scenes of dubious consent and graphic violence.
581 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2019
22 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Adams
22 books262 followersAJ Adams married her best friend and moved to the tropics where they are living their own Happily Ever After. She believes writing is not so much a passion as an obsession.
She writes twisted stories of love, mayhem, and murder as AJ Adams and sweet romance novels with strong women and very hunky men as Ellen Whyte, her IRL name.
When she's not writing, she's cooking and gossiping with her friends. She is also personal maid to rescue cats Target, Swooner and Tic Tac.
She's no longer on Goodreads but please do come and chat on FB at www.facebook.com/ewhyte (no friendship request required)
Don't miss new releases, discounts and special offers. Sign up for the newsletter at https://dirtydangerous.blogspot.my/p/...
She writes twisted stories of love, mayhem, and murder as AJ Adams and sweet romance novels with strong women and very hunky men as Ellen Whyte, her IRL name.
When she's not writing, she's cooking and gossiping with her friends. She is also personal maid to rescue cats Target, Swooner and Tic Tac.
She's no longer on Goodreads but please do come and chat on FB at www.facebook.com/ewhyte (no friendship request required)
Don't miss new releases, discounts and special offers. Sign up for the newsletter at https://dirtydangerous.blogspot.my/p/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
February 1, 2021
YES!!! The Zetas are on iTunes! This time they are taking over London and i love it!
https://books.apple.com/nl/book/twist...
This is the story of Persia,a sweet girl in spite of everything she’s been through,and still is forced to go through.
She had a rough life until she was adopted at age 7.
When she was 13,she went through hell,and without the support she needed,grew up to the tough girl she is today.
But one with a soft spot for the people she loves. And one that’s ready to go to battle for them.
And this is the story of Jorge,a Zeta man through and through.
And as a cousin to Arturo,he feels the pressure to make the London branche a succes.
He’s tough,ruthless,and determined to reach his goal whatever it may take.
He’s also a man that’s loyal to the bone,and will do anything for those he cares about.
And once he sees Persia for the girl she really is,he is ready to go to war for her....
A beautiful story of two very different people,that have more things in common than they think.
A dark story too,with the abuse Persia went through,and the actions Jorge thinks necessary to ensure the Zetas,and Persia,come out on top.
A story i enjoyed as much this time,as the ones before....
Persia is in a tough spot,having to pay off her brother’s debt to Kowalczyk. But she’s had to deal with a lot in her life,so she’ll get through this,too....When Jorge Santos pays Kowalczyk a social visit,things go downhill even more,though. And she is in the middle of it.....Being kidnapped by Jorge may seem bad at first,but once she gets to know him,she finds he’s a very different kind of man. Ruthless,yes. Lethal,too. A true criminal,like Kowalczyk,but....one with a heart. He is seeing a different girl than he thought she was,too. Tough,yes. A fighter,too. But one with a very big heart. As secrets unravel and a war is started,will they remain standing,together?
I love Persia! What she survived,how tough it made her,while keeping that sweetness intact for those that deserve it. She is great!
And Jorge,he is the best! Ruthless,but with a heart. Ready to make right what he got wrong. Deadly,but a man with honor. And só right for Persia!
https://books.apple.com/nl/book/twist...
This is the story of Persia,a sweet girl in spite of everything she’s been through,and still is forced to go through.
She had a rough life until she was adopted at age 7.
When she was 13,she went through hell,and without the support she needed,grew up to the tough girl she is today.
But one with a soft spot for the people she loves. And one that’s ready to go to battle for them.
And this is the story of Jorge,a Zeta man through and through.
And as a cousin to Arturo,he feels the pressure to make the London branche a succes.
He’s tough,ruthless,and determined to reach his goal whatever it may take.
He’s also a man that’s loyal to the bone,and will do anything for those he cares about.
And once he sees Persia for the girl she really is,he is ready to go to war for her....
A beautiful story of two very different people,that have more things in common than they think.
A dark story too,with the abuse Persia went through,and the actions Jorge thinks necessary to ensure the Zetas,and Persia,come out on top.
A story i enjoyed as much this time,as the ones before....
Persia is in a tough spot,having to pay off her brother’s debt to Kowalczyk. But she’s had to deal with a lot in her life,so she’ll get through this,too....When Jorge Santos pays Kowalczyk a social visit,things go downhill even more,though. And she is in the middle of it.....Being kidnapped by Jorge may seem bad at first,but once she gets to know him,she finds he’s a very different kind of man. Ruthless,yes. Lethal,too. A true criminal,like Kowalczyk,but....one with a heart. He is seeing a different girl than he thought she was,too. Tough,yes. A fighter,too. But one with a very big heart. As secrets unravel and a war is started,will they remain standing,together?
I love Persia! What she survived,how tough it made her,while keeping that sweetness intact for those that deserve it. She is great!
And Jorge,he is the best! Ruthless,but with a heart. Ready to make right what he got wrong. Deadly,but a man with honor. And só right for Persia!
July 12, 2019
Twisted is the word…
Drug cartels. The images those words invoke are ones of violence and darkness. What type of person not only seeks that life but also thrives in it? Well, the type of men who call themselves the Zetas. Ruthless, successful but with a code of honor that keeps alive. And in Jorge’s case, while he is ambitious and up for all aspects of the job (however bloody they may be), he also had an unexpected soft spot for those he called family…
Persia knew the rules. She was no stranger to the seamier side of life yet once again she was caught up in a world not of her making. For good or bad, she knew how to play the game, even if every moment was a lesson in strength and endurance. Counting the days until she could leave, meant keeping her head down and following the rules. And Jorge was going to make sure she did just that…
Persia’s past made me ache for all she had been, and continued to go, through. She was anything but a crushed flower, however, as she butted heads with those who wanted to keep her down. Jorge could have been yet another ugly chapter in her life but instead, he would be an unexpected light and an amazing match…
I loved this story with strong, enduring characters that often faced, and did, the unimaginable. There was violence, for sure, but there was also love and, surprisingly, tenderness. Family, whether by blood or chosen, was everything when loyalty was at stake. And through it all, Persia, Jorge and his loyal cohorts were a family.
I was deeply invested in these characters which made this an intense and anxiety-filled, wild, but satisfying ride…
March 31, 2024
4 STARS!
Dangerous, dark, loving, caring, twisted and sweet Jorge Santos, half devil, half angel.I love how this author writes dark books with heart. The above description of the H, Jorge, also perfectly describes the series. I'm so looking forward to the last book😍😍
July 13, 2019
Twisted is just the perfect title for this tale of lies, betrayal and deceit.
Twisted is a long book, well over 7 hours of read time, and not once did I get bored, feel like the story was dragging or consider any of it to be filler. AJ Adams has written a captivating, complex and convoluted tale that simply held my attention from start to finish. It's length meant there were times I HAD to put this down, at some points sleep and work just got in the way. But I didn't WANT to stop reading. I was desperate to see what would happen to Jorge and Persia next. I am not exaggerating when I say that I could very easily see this story being turned into a film. It has action, peril, sinister plots, lies and secrets, blackmail and the prerequisite romance all packed into it's pages.
Talking of Jorge and Persia - wow what a couple! An in-charge, alpha hero with humility and a hard as nails heroine whose strength had been forged in the fires of hell. If you don't fall in love with this couple then you have no soul!
If you're not familiar with AJ Adams' work then you need to know that she doesn't just write a romance, she writes a story . And not just any old story but one that takes you on a non-stop, fast-paced journey that twists, turns and weaves into something huge and amazing. The writing is also excellent, her prose is so easy to read, the plot is easy to follow and their is a subtle warmth, at times almost humour, in the dialogue and thoughts of the characters.
This is a book I'm happy to recommend to a whole slew of readers. It's got plenty of organised crime detail for the mafia lovers, it's got a great romance for the contemporary lovers, it's got masses of action for those who love a good adventure and it's a fantastic book for those that just want something of quality.
Twisted is a long book, well over 7 hours of read time, and not once did I get bored, feel like the story was dragging or consider any of it to be filler. AJ Adams has written a captivating, complex and convoluted tale that simply held my attention from start to finish. It's length meant there were times I HAD to put this down, at some points sleep and work just got in the way. But I didn't WANT to stop reading. I was desperate to see what would happen to Jorge and Persia next. I am not exaggerating when I say that I could very easily see this story being turned into a film. It has action, peril, sinister plots, lies and secrets, blackmail and the prerequisite romance all packed into it's pages.
Talking of Jorge and Persia - wow what a couple! An in-charge, alpha hero with humility and a hard as nails heroine whose strength had been forged in the fires of hell. If you don't fall in love with this couple then you have no soul!
If you're not familiar with AJ Adams' work then you need to know that she doesn't just write a romance, she writes a story . And not just any old story but one that takes you on a non-stop, fast-paced journey that twists, turns and weaves into something huge and amazing. The writing is also excellent, her prose is so easy to read, the plot is easy to follow and their is a subtle warmth, at times almost humour, in the dialogue and thoughts of the characters.
This is a book I'm happy to recommend to a whole slew of readers. It's got plenty of organised crime detail for the mafia lovers, it's got a great romance for the contemporary lovers, it's got masses of action for those who love a good adventure and it's a fantastic book for those that just want something of quality.
December 13, 2022
For the fifth book in the series, we are back in London with Arturo’s cousin Jorge. We’ve previously met him as a slight back character in some prior stories but now we get to discover just what makes him tick as the disrespect of one Polish gangster causes all-out war in London and Persia York former lingerie- model and all-out bad girl socialite is caught firmly in the crosshairs.
Bloody loved this the romance side of this had a much darker tone than previous books I would go as far as to say this one is outright non-consent at least initially. For me, the attitude the heroine Persia had in dealing with her treatment by Jorge went a hell of a long way in how I processed everything that occurred here.
Persia definitely had a core of steel and one massive tragic backstory because of this history her coping skills and measure of severity seemed a whole lot skewed. A lot of terrible events have happened to her previously so now she finds it incredibly easy to compartmentalise diminishing the effect on her somewhat. What occurred in her early childhood these shocking experiences are her comparison yardstick meaning someone would have to do some pretty messed up stuff to even compare now. Which is definitely lucky for Jorge who has managed to get things so completely wrong he’s managed to veer off-course so completely that he now needs a map to steer him back onto the right path. It’s like he was heading for London and found himself unexpectedly in Paris.
Persia is willing to use all of her assets to prosper and get ahead her previous torture and rape have removed a lot of the usual expected horror so she’s become one tough cookie and has purposefully developed a thick skin. It’s also left Persia with the ability to turn it off and on at will and though she initially fights Jose tooth and nail using whatever she has at her disposal she also has a mouth on her and is very much a spitting wildcat even resorting to shooting Jorge and refusing to feel any guilt whatsoever over it.
She also had a big fat dose of self-preservation that definitely kicks in when she realises how far she’s pushing it then Persia usually reverts back to form using her body and looks to manipulate and hopefully achieve her aims. At the same time whatever Persia outwardly displays she’s actually quite vulnerable, especially in regard to her family she’s easily taken advantage of but refuses to show this to others putting on a stellar game face.
Jose was an interesting one he’s such a contrast of extremes tough but also vulnerable. Lethal and focused but questioning every move at least internally. He’s grown up within the cartel knowing what’s expected of him and needs the respect but also wants it to be because of his actions and results rather than his family name.
He’s so sure he’s got it right when it comes to Persia that he ignores a direct new mandate that innocents are now given a pass. Now for the first time, he feels real guilt over his decisions believing it will now cost him everything including the woman he has come to adore.
Poor Persia has had a shocking life and my god those parents of hers what was she thinking forgiving them as she did this is a definite red flag for no-contact as soon as they are forced to choose again there going to revert totally to form. Persias family are bloody awful and they got off far too lightly which just goes to show how loyal and caring this girl is at heart but in my opinion, they definitely don’t deserve her consideration. I definitely liked where this went and how this all resolved this one was absolutely mental so much was going on. Completely fast-paced this was a roller coaster from start to finish.
I liked both Persia and Jorge thought they were a great match once Jorge removed his head from his arse that is. I liked Jorge’s internal vulnerability it definitely made him seem more human. I was also pleased he was willing to admit his mistakes going as far as to call himself out for it. I mean let’s be honest it was mostly ego and pride that set him off down the road he travelled Jorge was so worried about failing and losing respect that it became his very weakness. He’s just extremely lucky that Persia saw things so reasonably and was willing to give him a pass.
Another fabulous addition to the series each book easily manages to pull me into this fascinating criminal world. I definitely recommend this series it’s fabulous just take heed of the warnings, especially with this one if rape is a trigger for you. These definitely aren’t fluffy romances so you’ve been warned.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/63435390
July 12, 2019
Twisted is book #5 in the Zeta Series. This is Persia York and Jorge Santos story.
Persia doesn’t have a great reputation to no fault of her own. But that doesn’t make a difference. Now she has been kidnapped by the Jorge Santos - Zeta Cartel.
Persia has been through so much it is a wonder that she normal. Jorge is a very bad guy with a heart. He treats Persia roughly but then Jorge is a rough & tough man.
Get ready for a roller coaster ride of emotions. Because AJ Adams takes you on a rocky ride! Twisted is a dark story with twists and turns. This is probably the darkest book yet by AJ Adams. For those that have triggers my warning is if you decide to read this book proceed with caution.
Persia doesn’t have a great reputation to no fault of her own. But that doesn’t make a difference. Now she has been kidnapped by the Jorge Santos - Zeta Cartel.
Persia has been through so much it is a wonder that she normal. Jorge is a very bad guy with a heart. He treats Persia roughly but then Jorge is a rough & tough man.
Get ready for a roller coaster ride of emotions. Because AJ Adams takes you on a rocky ride! Twisted is a dark story with twists and turns. This is probably the darkest book yet by AJ Adams. For those that have triggers my warning is if you decide to read this book proceed with caution.
July 10, 2019
ONE WILD ROLLERCOASTER RIDE!!!
Ho-lee gee-hos-a-fatt! When lives are in jeopardy you put on your boots and start stomping. All the uncertainty, revelations and speculation along with all that drama and intrigue go hand-in-hand. Throw in a little danger and you have one page flipping, prize winning, nailbiting delight that launch this gem to a whole new level. Pushing through all the trials and tribulations that along with this intense storyline and spinning plot thrust this baby to life wonderfully. A throng of inadvertent circumstances along with an array of surprising mishaps push those blazing emotions into play front and center. The characters chemistry sizzles from the pages and suck you in so deeply until you feel the heat and electricity thrumming through your veins. The characters are genuine, tangible and realistic with such depth and qualities that blend and flow smoothly. The scenes are so vividly detailed and descriptive it paints a fantastic backdrop that gives substance to the illusion. Remarkable job Adams, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Ho-lee gee-hos-a-fatt! When lives are in jeopardy you put on your boots and start stomping. All the uncertainty, revelations and speculation along with all that drama and intrigue go hand-in-hand. Throw in a little danger and you have one page flipping, prize winning, nailbiting delight that launch this gem to a whole new level. Pushing through all the trials and tribulations that along with this intense storyline and spinning plot thrust this baby to life wonderfully. A throng of inadvertent circumstances along with an array of surprising mishaps push those blazing emotions into play front and center. The characters chemistry sizzles from the pages and suck you in so deeply until you feel the heat and electricity thrumming through your veins. The characters are genuine, tangible and realistic with such depth and qualities that blend and flow smoothly. The scenes are so vividly detailed and descriptive it paints a fantastic backdrop that gives substance to the illusion. Remarkable job Adams, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
July 15, 2019
ARC book, received in exchange of honest review. I fell in love with AJ Adams when I discovered The Zetas. Bonus, Degas Girl and Songbird are my favorite in the series. Now, Twisted was a really nice read, twisted indeed and really thrilling😀. The story had so many twist and turns that keeps you reading. Sometimes there were too many details and it could of been more simple but I past this because it keep me hooked to the story. Now, the love between Jorge and Persia doesn't start with the right foot. It is dark and twisted and no way hearts and flowers kind of love. It couldn't even be, because it both of the characters have dark pasts. There are even some scene in the book that some might find to read, especially the one with the abuse on Persia. Althrough I did enjoy the story I rate it 4 starbs because I feel that the chemistry betweeen the two could of been more poignant and belive it or not I felt the need for the sex scenes to be more elaborate.
July 6, 2019
A dark romance full of violence and seduction. Persia (the MFC) gets caught up in a tit for tat turf war with the guys she's seeing and Jorge. A guy who is trying to set up a new drug dealing enterprise in London. In the course of the book Jorge kidnaps Persia. A game of cat and mouse begins between them. Him trying to subdue her and her giving as good as she gets. Yes there's a lot of violence in this book but I loved the power play between Persia and Jorge. It's not a typical love story and if your looking for a soppy book like that then this book is not for you. If you want a dark romance with dubiously good/bad characters then read this because you will really enjoy it. I did very much
July 12, 2019
When I read a Zeta Cartel book by AJ Adams. I know I will love the characters.
Each story is totally different and original.
This story tells the life of Persia York and Jorge Santos.
I have so many emotions while reading. The sadness, the injustice, the anger. Followed always with hope. There is always the hope.
The depth of the characters ensures you will fall in love with them. A protectiveness Wells up within in you (rivaling any Cartel family)
A must read. Truly brilliant.
Each story is totally different and original.
This story tells the life of Persia York and Jorge Santos.
I have so many emotions while reading. The sadness, the injustice, the anger. Followed always with hope. There is always the hope.
The depth of the characters ensures you will fall in love with them. A protectiveness Wells up within in you (rivaling any Cartel family)
A must read. Truly brilliant.
July 12, 2019
This is the fifth book in the Zeta Cartel series and it is the darkest of them all. The action is fast-paced, gritty, and violent. The characters are amazingly well-written and the blood and gore well-described. The chemistry between Persia and Jorge takes your breath away as a turf war develops. Will they remain enemies or stand together?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2019
Really intense. Highly charged emotionally gripping. Your heart is ripped apart from the treatment Persia has endured and still goes thru. Can’t help but fall in love with the Zetas. Hope there are more stories with Jorge’s crew.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2019
This is another dark and twisted addition to the series and they just keep getting better and better. If you have read and enjoyed the previous four books then you are not going too want to miss this one. This is Jorge and Persia's book and it kept me up and reading late into the night. I love this series and would definitely recommend it
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July 12, 2019This book was great. I loved Persia she was feisty but I felt bad for the horrible fate that she was handed with her family and her upbringing and others using her. Jorge was a jerk but when he realized how he'd messed up towards Persia he turns it around and care for her unlike anyone else ever has. The sex was hot, the violence was gruesome and the characters were captivating. A fun read.
July 12, 2019
This isn’t a bad book, it just wasn’t my style. The character and setting descriptions were amazing. Everything came together really well
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2021
I go back and forth between 3 and 4 stars on this one. As well written as the other Zeta books, I struggle for the first half because I didn't like Jorge. He eventually grew on me and the ending was satisfying.
July 9, 2019
Twisted is the 5th book in the Zeta Cartel series by AJ Adams and, although I loved the references to previous novels in the series, this book can still easily be enjoyed as a standalone. This is the story of Jorge Santos, boss of the London branch of the Zetas, and Persia York, a model with a tragic back story who is caught up in a dangerous position while trying to help her disapproving family. The Mexican cartel takes on an Eastern European crime lord in a turf war in gangland London.
Persia is a rough diamond with a heart of gold but Jorge kidnaps her, believing her to be a player and intending to make her pay. Gradually he comes to realise that all is not what it seems and Persia is nothing like he bargained for. As the turf war heats up and secrets come out, it begins to look as if Jorge might fail his boss, Arturo, and be in danger of losing everything.
I love these Zeta stories and this one is no exception. As we can expect from AJ Adams, we have a dark, flawed hero with a heart, and a strong, sassy heroine who can stand her ground. There's great side characters and a clever plot with plenty of twists. Some lighter comic moments provide relief but this is a dark romance and is, at times, very violent. Persia's childhood was horrific and serves to underline how remarkable she is to have kept her sweetness, and her ability to forgive makes it hard not to love her, as Jorge discovers.
This story has so many different flavours to it. Set in London, we have lower class Persia mixing with upper class toffs, while the Mexican cartel adds South American flavour to the distinctly British setting. As usual, it all feels exceptionally well researched and authentic and I really don't think there is anything else out there that compares. So refreshingly original, I totally recommend.
Persia is a rough diamond with a heart of gold but Jorge kidnaps her, believing her to be a player and intending to make her pay. Gradually he comes to realise that all is not what it seems and Persia is nothing like he bargained for. As the turf war heats up and secrets come out, it begins to look as if Jorge might fail his boss, Arturo, and be in danger of losing everything.
I love these Zeta stories and this one is no exception. As we can expect from AJ Adams, we have a dark, flawed hero with a heart, and a strong, sassy heroine who can stand her ground. There's great side characters and a clever plot with plenty of twists. Some lighter comic moments provide relief but this is a dark romance and is, at times, very violent. Persia's childhood was horrific and serves to underline how remarkable she is to have kept her sweetness, and her ability to forgive makes it hard not to love her, as Jorge discovers.
This story has so many different flavours to it. Set in London, we have lower class Persia mixing with upper class toffs, while the Mexican cartel adds South American flavour to the distinctly British setting. As usual, it all feels exceptionally well researched and authentic and I really don't think there is anything else out there that compares. So refreshingly original, I totally recommend.
July 11, 2019
Twisted is a wild ride, and I looooooved it so much!
If you're into dark romance, cartel stories, and you dig a love story that starts messy with a side of graphic violence; Twisted is the next book on your reading pile. AJ Adams's heroines are spunky, they are not freaking fragile flowers, and they give as much as they get.
Twisted is the 5th book in the Zeta Cartel series of AJ Adams. It reads as a standalone, though reading the previous books gives you a richer understanding of the context of Twisted as it's timeline runs parallel to the one of Dark Hunter ( book 4)
It follows Jorge, the young cousin of the boss, recently promoted to the head of the London 'subsidiary'. Jorge reads like what I imagine his cousin/boss Arturo was when he still wasn't secure in his position. He has a lot to prove in a world where mistakes are deadly.
An insulting meeting with a 'colleague' starts him on a turf war to wash his reputation in blood and to prove to the underworld he did not get his position just because of nepotism.
Collateral damage: Persia, the girlfriend of his new adversary. He kidnaps her with plans to use her as a pawn in his war.
But Persia is not who he thought, and his plans might be backfiring, especially since he's been breaking rules right and left to win...
Persia vowed never to be a victim again, and is determined to prove to Jorge she won't be used. For me, her determination shone brighter that whatever she was enduring.
Add to that, the fact Jorge doesn't bullshit us readers on who he is and what he does, he calls a cat a cat, and left me feel their love story wasn't the-darkest-ever written by AJ Adams. But I'll admit I might a very personal definition of what's light and dark.
Anyway, it's one of AJ Adams most breathtaking story to date: the plot twists will keep coming...
If you're into dark romance, cartel stories, and you dig a love story that starts messy with a side of graphic violence; Twisted is the next book on your reading pile. AJ Adams's heroines are spunky, they are not freaking fragile flowers, and they give as much as they get.
Twisted is the 5th book in the Zeta Cartel series of AJ Adams. It reads as a standalone, though reading the previous books gives you a richer understanding of the context of Twisted as it's timeline runs parallel to the one of Dark Hunter ( book 4)
It follows Jorge, the young cousin of the boss, recently promoted to the head of the London 'subsidiary'. Jorge reads like what I imagine his cousin/boss Arturo was when he still wasn't secure in his position. He has a lot to prove in a world where mistakes are deadly.
An insulting meeting with a 'colleague' starts him on a turf war to wash his reputation in blood and to prove to the underworld he did not get his position just because of nepotism.
Collateral damage: Persia, the girlfriend of his new adversary. He kidnaps her with plans to use her as a pawn in his war.
But Persia is not who he thought, and his plans might be backfiring, especially since he's been breaking rules right and left to win...
Persia vowed never to be a victim again, and is determined to prove to Jorge she won't be used. For me, her determination shone brighter that whatever she was enduring.
Add to that, the fact Jorge doesn't bullshit us readers on who he is and what he does, he calls a cat a cat, and left me feel their love story wasn't the-darkest-ever written by AJ Adams. But I'll admit I might a very personal definition of what's light and dark.
Anyway, it's one of AJ Adams most breathtaking story to date: the plot twists will keep coming...
March 14, 2021
I really appreciate it when an author takes a different approach in a mature series. The writing and story are probably closer to 3-stars, but the characters and perspectives are different enough to earn an extra star from me.
Jorge is in charge of expanding the new London territory of the Zeta cartel. He is a cousin of the top guy, but worries that he has been set up to fail. The core Zetas are distracted by their own problems in Mexico and Texas (see the previous story). Jorge kidnaps Persia as leverage against his biggest rival. Persia has survived abuse in her past, and the cut-throat world of high fashion in the present, but is oddly naïve when it comes to family. Her dark past should have hardened her into a scary witch, but instead it just made her sneaky.
These two don't fit easily in the enemies-to-lovers trope. Persia has been badly abused, and Jorge abuses her some more. But as truths are uncovered, they realize that they have misunderstood each other, and everyone else as well. There are some really strong scenes as they begin to support and protect each other. Persia still does some TSTL things, but it all works out in the end. I enjoyed the clever bits.
The Zeta series has always been graphically sexy and violent. This story is a little less graphic, but there are instances of real rape, non-con and dub-con sexual scenes that bothered me. They still bother me, but everything is resolved to mutual satisfaction.
Jorge is in charge of expanding the new London territory of the Zeta cartel. He is a cousin of the top guy, but worries that he has been set up to fail. The core Zetas are distracted by their own problems in Mexico and Texas (see the previous story). Jorge kidnaps Persia as leverage against his biggest rival. Persia has survived abuse in her past, and the cut-throat world of high fashion in the present, but is oddly naïve when it comes to family. Her dark past should have hardened her into a scary witch, but instead it just made her sneaky.
These two don't fit easily in the enemies-to-lovers trope. Persia has been badly abused, and Jorge abuses her some more. But as truths are uncovered, they realize that they have misunderstood each other, and everyone else as well. There are some really strong scenes as they begin to support and protect each other. Persia still does some TSTL things, but it all works out in the end. I enjoyed the clever bits.
The Zeta series has always been graphically sexy and violent. This story is a little less graphic, but there are instances of real rape, non-con and dub-con sexual scenes that bothered me. They still bother me, but everything is resolved to mutual satisfaction.
July 12, 2019
This is book five in the Zeta Cartel series. I have not read each book and apparently, I am not reading them in order either but I find it still works. I just have to say that I loved Persia. She captured my heart in that she is so innocent one first glance but has both the determination and cut throatiness to do anything for her family. In order to save her brother, she is forced into slavery to clear the debt. This becomes a tall and impossible order and Persia decides that enough is enough, she puts her fighting gloves on and her fists up and she is ready to fight her way out for good. That is until she finds that she has signed her own death warrant but offending Jorge Santos, the Zeta Cartel leader. Jorge sees Persia as a chess piece to use to win the turf war but with our Persia and her fighting stance, you are clearly in for an incredible story and ride with these two. This story will unfold, bring these two characters together, tear them apart a little, and make you wonder which way is forward. However, it is worth reading each and every word on all 500+ pages to get to the end and see what becomes of Persia, Jorge and the Zeta Cartel. This book is well written, contains violence, graphic and is full of hotness - its perfect!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2019
This author KILLS me over and over again. I have a serious love/hate thing going on with her and it's what keeps me coming back for more. I mean really take a look at the women she hooks these men up with and how they wheeze into their hearts bit by bit until there's no way to separate them. Persia is just trying to do right by the family who adopted her, that's all, that's it. How can doing right and helping family, proving herself worthy become the shit storm she finds herself smack dab in the middle of. He is trying to redeem himself, prove that he is worthy of the position he holds, scrambling to keep it all. He has no idea that this crazy, out spoken, sexy vixen will be catalyst to make it happen. I love Persia. She has had buckets of ugly thrown at her and has survived, no that's not it, she has soared. She has taken it all and learned the ropes and twisted them to her benefit. Now it's time. These two, along with some help from a few friends, form an alliance out of necessity. They work together to unravel, shake loose, reform and man is it a rush. The Zeta's are learning a new norm as they reach out to a new world, and it's women like Persia who are gonna make it happen. Twisted?? Oh yeah, you ain't seen nothing yet.
July 11, 2019
Who is Jamal and what has he done that ha angered Jorge? Who is Kowalczyk, why does Jorge go see him, and what happens? Who is Persia? What happened to her at 13 years old that changed her life? All I cn say is that Jorge is DEVIOUS!!! What happens when Kowalczyk unleashes on Persia, using the dark web and social media? In this book, we see two completely different sides of Jorge. We get to seriously get to know those sides! When Persia goes to see her brother when she is told he has reopened his business, what hapens? How does Persia make everyone in the Zetas ready to do anything for her? Oh lord, I Love Jorge's come backs to Laura Griffin! The more I read, the more I love how Persia handled Smith! So many unexpected twists and turns in this book. I cannot wait for the next one!!! This book had me with fire coming out of my ears at times, and at others laughing or crying. I cannot adequately express how many emotions I went through reading this book. If I could give it 10 stars, I would! You really need to read this series in order to get the full feel for everything!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
July 11, 2019
This was the first book that I have read from this writer and the first book that I have read from this series. The author reached out to me and sent me an arc to read. I will say it was a little difficult to get into this book at first. I wasn't sure what was going on. But once I did get into the storyline it was very interesting intense and gripping. Persia is in a very difficult situation. She is involved with Kowalczyk trying to pay off her brother's debt. But she is dealing with some of the roughest things trying to get this debt paid off. Jorge Santos pays Kowalczyk a visit to talk about a property line things go down hill from there. Jorge decides after hearing some things that he is going to kidnap Persia. Persia doesn't know what to think once she is kidnapped by this man. He is ruthless lethal but has a heart. Secrets come out and a war is started will these two join together and stand together or remain enemies? I enjoyed reading this one as I said once I got into it. I would love to read the other ones in this series.
July 16, 2019
First off I want to say that this is book 5 in the series and I have not previously read the earlier books in this series and I don't think it's necessary in order to understand this book. With that being said now I do want to go back and read those first four. I really enjoyed this book cartel stories are some of my favorite to read and this one did not disappoint. One thing I really enjoyed about this book was that Jorge was new to being in charge of this area in a new country for the cartel. The author did a really great job on showing his growth and how he became a good leader and his struggles to get there. As for the female lead character Persia I loved her and really felt for her character in the story but I feel like the ending all made up for him. If you're looking for a book that's a bit dark, deals with the cartel, and will keep you on your toes with all the twists and turns then this is definitely for you. Love it!!!
July 11, 2019
Loved the book it was great the story was well written and the characters were interesting. Persia loves her brother she is working with Kowalczyk to pay off her brothers debt. Jorge works for the Cartel and wants to open up a shipping yard. Persia is head strong, stands up when required. The story is so intense, it is full of emotions that it is like a wicked rollercoaster ride.
Thank you for allowing me to review this book it was great.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you for allowing me to review this book it was great.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2019
This is a fantastic addition to the Zeta Cartel. It is a great book and a phenomenal story. I can definitely empathize with Persia and the fact that she feels obligated to do whatever it takes to make sure her family are taken care of. But gosh Jorge well he is just a viscous naught bad boy, but oh what a picture I have of him. He is he is so bad he is so good! What a heck of a man. Jorge and Persia are perfect for each other she is mouthy with a dash of spirit, he is viscous with a dollop of sexy!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2019
This is a story that never lets up, not even for a second! It has twists and turns that keep coming from the get-go, it’s full of suspense and intense emotions. There are some possible triggers so do read the blurb and the reviews. If you go ahead and read this book then get ready for a brilliant and amazing ride!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 3, 2021
This is my first time with this author and obviously the first book in this series I have read, but won’t be the last. It is a dark and complex read and definitely not for everyone, particularly those with triggers. I had a tug-of-war with my feelings toward some of the characters including attraction and then repelled. The characters were impeccable and this author has true talent. Excellent read!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 26, 2019
AMAZING! A fantastic, well written read. An intense storyline that holds your attention as you get caught up in the fierce twists and hot chemistry. Plenty of excitement and emotionally heartfelt. A thrilling must read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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