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Pride Trilogy #2
Pride and the Stranger
*BOOK 2 IN THE CARDINAL SERIES*
Pride and the Stranger, book 2 in the Pride Trilogy, is a lesbian *erotica novel featuring the Seven Deadly Sins. This sequel follows on from The Bartender's Pride.
~Voted Best Lesfic Erotica 2020~
~Winner of Lesfic Bard Award; Best Lesfic Erotica 2020~
The Sins are back in this highly anticipated second installment of the Pride trilogy.
Sexy meets romantic as Lara and Zoe take their relationship to the next level. Unfortunately, our sinful women aren’t so lucky.
A weekend in Brighton turns dark after a horrific truth is uncovered that will change Harry’s life forever, forcing her to make a heartbreaking decision that could tear her and Althea apart. Faced with an impossible choice, nothing will ever be the same again.
*Content Warning: 18+, mature content. All sexually explicit scenes are f/f only and completely consensual, however the story line contains sensitive issues that deal with the aftermath of rape trauma. The rape is NOT graphic; only hinted at for story line purposes.
Pride and the Stranger, book 2 in the Pride Trilogy, is a lesbian *erotica novel featuring the Seven Deadly Sins. This sequel follows on from The Bartender's Pride.
~Voted Best Lesfic Erotica 2020~
~Winner of Lesfic Bard Award; Best Lesfic Erotica 2020~
The Sins are back in this highly anticipated second installment of the Pride trilogy.
Sexy meets romantic as Lara and Zoe take their relationship to the next level. Unfortunately, our sinful women aren’t so lucky.
A weekend in Brighton turns dark after a horrific truth is uncovered that will change Harry’s life forever, forcing her to make a heartbreaking decision that could tear her and Althea apart. Faced with an impossible choice, nothing will ever be the same again.
*Content Warning: 18+, mature content. All sexually explicit scenes are f/f only and completely consensual, however the story line contains sensitive issues that deal with the aftermath of rape trauma. The rape is NOT graphic; only hinted at for story line purposes.
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First published August 30, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
July 18, 2021
Ow those 7 sins! I’m really enjoying this series. When I read the first book I was intrigued by the main characters of this book, the 7 sins personified. Together they run “the Cardinal” a building where you can indulge in all sins. Each sin manages a floor dedicated to their “specialty” and together they share a special bond.
I recommend reading these books in order, as you might be confused by the dynamics and special gifts of the mains if you haven’t read the first book. I enjoyed the first book, but it had some bumps for me. I’m happy to say that this book was much better in terms of plot and coherence in writing. Like the first book, it is written in first person from different POVs, and you get to see so much more of the characters. Their personalities match their sin so perfectly, and you get to understand what makes them tick. This is erotica, but it’s the characters that make this series so addictive, well and of course a lot of steamy sex scenes.
The plot is surprising with some themes that you might not immediately expect from an erotica novel, they were pretty heavy and emotional (CW: physical and sexual abuse, murder, depression). And do you need a bit of romance as well? There is romance, but you should not be opposed to open relationships when reading this book. It all feels very natural, there is no sneaking around, just people enjoying sex, while having a deeper emotional bond with one person.
I’m looking forward to reading the third book. Erotica with an interesting plot, recommend!
I recommend reading these books in order, as you might be confused by the dynamics and special gifts of the mains if you haven’t read the first book. I enjoyed the first book, but it had some bumps for me. I’m happy to say that this book was much better in terms of plot and coherence in writing. Like the first book, it is written in first person from different POVs, and you get to see so much more of the characters. Their personalities match their sin so perfectly, and you get to understand what makes them tick. This is erotica, but it’s the characters that make this series so addictive, well and of course a lot of steamy sex scenes.
The plot is surprising with some themes that you might not immediately expect from an erotica novel, they were pretty heavy and emotional (CW: physical and sexual abuse, murder, depression). And do you need a bit of romance as well? There is romance, but you should not be opposed to open relationships when reading this book. It all feels very natural, there is no sneaking around, just people enjoying sex, while having a deeper emotional bond with one person.
I’m looking forward to reading the third book. Erotica with an interesting plot, recommend!
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May 3, 2022Oh, Harry! So many feels for you. 😘
January 21, 2021
Holy Heck! I thought the first book was great but this was even better!! It was so heartbreaking and then the epilogue at the end... the dust got in my eyes.
I love these characters.
I love these characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
TJ Dallas has written more than just an erotica. Dallas wrote a story thick with layers that was seeped with a multitude of colours.
Pride started out with most of the gang together, celebrating, having a good a time. Typical shenanigans ensued amongst the group of women I’ve come to love and lust over, including my favourites, Harry and Emilia. Bad blood from the first story still left a sour taste in some of the character’s mouths which resulted in an almost banishment towards one particular member, Madison. She got lost in a tizzy within her own emotions which was fueled by one of the Virtues’ power over her and she ended up hurting Lara, the mortal bartender. In the sequel, forgiveness had not yet been given and we didn’t see Madison a whole lot this time. Personally, I was ready to forgive Madison and forget what she almost did by ending Lara. What Madison did was miniscule compared to what happened in the sequel of The Bartender’s Pride. Before I talk about that, I will say that I was just as aroused if not more in this installment as I was when I read the first book.
Yowza, Dallas can really lure me in seductively then smack my ass and order me to stay and watch. And I did just that. These women were experts when it came to pleasuring a woman. A reader will never get bored reading these stories because there’s a flavour for everyone. You want a dominate femme, or an athletic butch who’ll take you for a ride on her strap, or how ‘bout a tall, toned, and sexy manager who always gets her way. Plus, so many more to choose from. Not only was there a plethora of sex, but there was an abundance of love as well. I won’t give it away and I’ll just say that I may have had a tear or two during that group photoshoot with the whole gang. And speaking of photoshoots, lemme just quickly point out, which I shouldn’t because it’s obvious, that Harry was one sexy b*tch! And she knew it, too! Duh, she’s Pride. I’ve never been more turned on reading about a woman, who I find is the epitome of sex and everything that goes with it, modeling in front of a camera. That scene was scorching hot, fire, embers burning, smoke billowing, sparks flying, sweat dripping, I-can-see-the-waist-band-of-your-underwear-peeking-out-from-your-tight-jeans, HOT! And don’t get me started on her biceps and abs. The only thing that’s soft about Harry is her hair, her breasts, and her golden heart. However strong and tough Harry was though, she was also vulnerable, and this where I express myself.
With no spoilers, but I’m sure what I’m about to say will pique your interest into reading this series. Althea is tainted to me. What she did is unforgivable. To hand over your incapacitated friend to a complete stranger and trust they will look after her is the most asinine, ridiculous notion. I was livid with Althea, and then after discovering the outcome of the events that transpired, I no longer wanted to see her name, let alone read what she had to say. I didn’t want to hear it and I still don’t. Maybe in the third part my feelings towards her actions will have changed, I really don’t know. I understand why Harry forgave her because she was in love with Althea. As for me, well, it’s going to take a while longer. I also understand that not all of it was Althea’s fault, but it’s hard not to be angry when a woman like Harry, who was mentally and physically strong, independent and made her own choices, be forced into something she never asked for or wanted, ever. And I don’t blame her for the choice she made however gut-wrenching it was for her to make and for me to read. I wanted to hold her, rock her, soothe her, and tell her it would be okay. Fortunately, Harry was a resilient immortal woman with a huge support group around her. I also have more respect for Emilia for what she did for Harry.
I had a whirlwind of emotions reading the sequel to this story and I cannot wait to see what else these sinful women will get up to in the third part.
TJ Dallas has written more than just an erotica. Dallas wrote a story thick with layers that was seeped with a multitude of colours.
Pride started out with most of the gang together, celebrating, having a good a time. Typical shenanigans ensued amongst the group of women I’ve come to love and lust over, including my favourites, Harry and Emilia. Bad blood from the first story still left a sour taste in some of the character’s mouths which resulted in an almost banishment towards one particular member, Madison. She got lost in a tizzy within her own emotions which was fueled by one of the Virtues’ power over her and she ended up hurting Lara, the mortal bartender. In the sequel, forgiveness had not yet been given and we didn’t see Madison a whole lot this time. Personally, I was ready to forgive Madison and forget what she almost did by ending Lara. What Madison did was miniscule compared to what happened in the sequel of The Bartender’s Pride. Before I talk about that, I will say that I was just as aroused if not more in this installment as I was when I read the first book.
Yowza, Dallas can really lure me in seductively then smack my ass and order me to stay and watch. And I did just that. These women were experts when it came to pleasuring a woman. A reader will never get bored reading these stories because there’s a flavour for everyone. You want a dominate femme, or an athletic butch who’ll take you for a ride on her strap, or how ‘bout a tall, toned, and sexy manager who always gets her way. Plus, so many more to choose from. Not only was there a plethora of sex, but there was an abundance of love as well. I won’t give it away and I’ll just say that I may have had a tear or two during that group photoshoot with the whole gang. And speaking of photoshoots, lemme just quickly point out, which I shouldn’t because it’s obvious, that Harry was one sexy b*tch! And she knew it, too! Duh, she’s Pride. I’ve never been more turned on reading about a woman, who I find is the epitome of sex and everything that goes with it, modeling in front of a camera. That scene was scorching hot, fire, embers burning, smoke billowing, sparks flying, sweat dripping, I-can-see-the-waist-band-of-your-underwear-peeking-out-from-your-tight-jeans, HOT! And don’t get me started on her biceps and abs. The only thing that’s soft about Harry is her hair, her breasts, and her golden heart. However strong and tough Harry was though, she was also vulnerable, and this where I express myself.
With no spoilers, but I’m sure what I’m about to say will pique your interest into reading this series. Althea is tainted to me. What she did is unforgivable. To hand over your incapacitated friend to a complete stranger and trust they will look after her is the most asinine, ridiculous notion. I was livid with Althea, and then after discovering the outcome of the events that transpired, I no longer wanted to see her name, let alone read what she had to say. I didn’t want to hear it and I still don’t. Maybe in the third part my feelings towards her actions will have changed, I really don’t know. I understand why Harry forgave her because she was in love with Althea. As for me, well, it’s going to take a while longer. I also understand that not all of it was Althea’s fault, but it’s hard not to be angry when a woman like Harry, who was mentally and physically strong, independent and made her own choices, be forced into something she never asked for or wanted, ever. And I don’t blame her for the choice she made however gut-wrenching it was for her to make and for me to read. I wanted to hold her, rock her, soothe her, and tell her it would be okay. Fortunately, Harry was a resilient immortal woman with a huge support group around her. I also have more respect for Emilia for what she did for Harry.
I had a whirlwind of emotions reading the sequel to this story and I cannot wait to see what else these sinful women will get up to in the third part.
July 24, 2022
If I had a crush on every seven deadly sins in Book 1, then I definitely have fall for them in Book 2
I honestly did not expect to get so emotional. I’m debating if I should read Book 3 now or later because I’m not ready to say goodbye to this trilogy🥹
I honestly did not expect to get so emotional. I’m debating if I should read Book 3 now or later because I’m not ready to say goodbye to this trilogy🥹
Want to read
October 24, 2020 FREE on Amazon today (10/24/2020)! 🎁
March 28, 2021
Book 2 was even better than the first!
I enjoyed book 1 in this series a great deal, but book two was even better. Im definitely looking forward to book 3. I would highly recommend this book.
I enjoyed book 1 in this series a great deal, but book two was even better. Im definitely looking forward to book 3. I would highly recommend this book.
August 12, 2024
The only reason why this isn't getting a 4 star is because i guess i got saturated by all the debauchery. This second book follows the sins per se and so much sex i kinda got bored despite it genuinely being turn on many times.
June 9, 2022
Ok! This one delved into more complex stuff than book 1, which has me upping my rating. I still find the execution awkward, and have trouble with the flow at times, but we see more layers to some of the 7 characters than just sex. Don't get me wrong every 5th page is sex, sex and more sex, but boy does some big stuff happen. Some is hard to read, imagine, envision, and I did not like some of the turns this story took personally, but the author dealt with it quite well, so points for that. There were a lot of feels happening,
I do wonder why we have next to nothing from Riley and Georgia, but so much about Lara, who I honestly don't care very much about. Bella got a little more play, and a wee bit more of Madison, but if the 7 Sins are the focal point, I want more of them. Maybe the rest of the books give more.
But hey, I admit I am hooked. Onto book 3.....
Oh ADD NOTES! I forgot about the annotations. TJ I have a MAJOR bone to pick with you for this one:
"She stood behind the bar with three glasses in front of her, pouring out a measure of that expensive Macallan whisky. "If you wanted some, you simply had to ask, pet. Ice?"
"Please," I replied, chuckling.
This was a very rare and old scotch, only 40 barrels ever produced, and Harry said she spent 850,000 pounds for it. YOU NEVER PUT ICE IN SCOTCH! EVER! Sacrilege! We could have this argument all day and I would still win. NO ICE. Goddamned. My heart literally stopped beating. TJ!!
Also, I should have noted the humour threaded in this book. I laughed out loud many times: "If you fell asleep outside in Scotland, you'd wake up in a hedge with bare feet and no eyebrows." :)
Ok done now.
I do wonder why we have next to nothing from Riley and Georgia, but so much about Lara, who I honestly don't care very much about. Bella got a little more play, and a wee bit more of Madison, but if the 7 Sins are the focal point, I want more of them. Maybe the rest of the books give more.
But hey, I admit I am hooked. Onto book 3.....
Oh ADD NOTES! I forgot about the annotations. TJ I have a MAJOR bone to pick with you for this one:
"She stood behind the bar with three glasses in front of her, pouring out a measure of that expensive Macallan whisky. "If you wanted some, you simply had to ask, pet. Ice?"
"Please," I replied, chuckling.
This was a very rare and old scotch, only 40 barrels ever produced, and Harry said she spent 850,000 pounds for it. YOU NEVER PUT ICE IN SCOTCH! EVER! Sacrilege! We could have this argument all day and I would still win. NO ICE. Goddamned. My heart literally stopped beating. TJ!!
Also, I should have noted the humour threaded in this book. I laughed out loud many times: "If you fell asleep outside in Scotland, you'd wake up in a hedge with bare feet and no eyebrows." :)
Ok done now.
October 2, 2020
Wow book 2 is just as emotional and exciting as the first. It was heartbreaking to see Harry go through being assaulted and dealing with the aftermath. They all enjoy life to the fullest and care for each other deeply. I love these characters and am excited to read the last book in the trilogy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2022
3.5 stars. This was a more difficult read than expected, and because of that, it's proving to be a bit difficult for me to pin down how I feel about it? Content-wise, I knew what I was getting into and I knew it would be hard to read, but the book just took certain turns and came at it from unexpected angles, so I was unexpectedly gutted and way more emotionally wrung out than I thought I'd be.
And I mean, it's still what it says in the tin: erotica about the seven deadly sins, who all take the form of queer women. It's hot, very sex heavy, and the plot isn't really intricate? Just, again, very heavy in this particular book. But I really liked the way it tackled sexual assault without ever getting explicit, and how so much of the emphasis was on choice in the aftermath, and considering the victim's perspective/feelings. There were some scenes and conversations that absolutely wrung my heart out. I'm still so very much in love with the concept of how these sins are personified, and Harry standing for pride in more ways than one. It was really interesting getting to see more of the other sins as well, and seeing Harry's double more too.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Scarlett Rose, which is the only way I'll be consuming these books, thanks. I have THE biggest voice crush of my life. At a certain point, some of the sexy scenes started to become pretty repetitive, and the only reason I didn't get bored with the book is because I was listening to her. *__* And by now, I'm intrigued by the overall plot, so I'm sure I'll continue the series one day.
Content warnings: .
And I mean, it's still what it says in the tin: erotica about the seven deadly sins, who all take the form of queer women. It's hot, very sex heavy, and the plot isn't really intricate? Just, again, very heavy in this particular book. But I really liked the way it tackled sexual assault without ever getting explicit, and how so much of the emphasis was on choice in the aftermath, and considering the victim's perspective/feelings. There were some scenes and conversations that absolutely wrung my heart out. I'm still so very much in love with the concept of how these sins are personified, and Harry standing for pride in more ways than one. It was really interesting getting to see more of the other sins as well, and seeing Harry's double more too.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Scarlett Rose, which is the only way I'll be consuming these books, thanks. I have THE biggest voice crush of my life. At a certain point, some of the sexy scenes started to become pretty repetitive, and the only reason I didn't get bored with the book is because I was listening to her. *__* And by now, I'm intrigued by the overall plot, so I'm sure I'll continue the series one day.
Content warnings: .
June 9, 2020
If you enjoyed book 1, you'll enjoy book 2. This book does required a content warning which I'll post behind the spoiler tags.
After book 1 I didn't know what to expect from book 2 except steamy sex scenes. I was pleasantly surprised to be taken on an emotional journey with Harry! It wasn't always an easy one, but it made for an interesting story. I'm quite curious where book 3 will lead.
After book 1 I didn't know what to expect from book 2 except steamy sex scenes. I was pleasantly surprised to be taken on an emotional journey with Harry! It wasn't always an easy one, but it made for an interesting story. I'm quite curious where book 3 will lead.
February 23, 2025
Again, I don't understand the rave reviews on these books. If you like super spicy erotica, then this is the book for you. If you like your novels to have any semblance of plot, then steer clear of this because outside of the sex and the relationships between all the characters/vices, you're not getting much else. Just crumbs of a story that you have to squint to see.
I can say I was never bored reading this, and I liked it better than I liked the first book. But it a great novel? No.
I can say I was never bored reading this, and I liked it better than I liked the first book. But it a great novel? No.
June 3, 2020
This is the second book of the Pride Trilogy and sequel of The Bartender’s Pride.
This time we witness the love story between Lara and Zoe and we get to know more about our beloved Seven Deadly Sins. Our sinful women were doing well until something awful and unexpected happened during a weekend in Brighton. Life will never be the same, mostly for Harry and Althea. Will their relationship survive?
I was eager to read this book because I enjoyed very much book one. The truth is I never expected the intensity, got me speechless. This book is still very very sexy but also much deeper. Has a variety of elements that make it so deep, intense, emotional and very good; we got a lot of high-quality sexy times, mystery, drama, intrigue, more sexy times, some other things in between and romance, turning it in a very well-written multi-layered story. There were parts that were hard, very intense and extremely emotional but these, fortify the story.
I really liked this book. Is different from what I expected, took me by surprise completely. TJ Dallas made an extraordinary job with the story, has a lot of very steamy sexy scenes and a lot more, as I mentioned before is a deeper story; is about family, friendship, disappointment, and mostly love and forgiveness. There are a lot of reasons that make this a great book, but I can’t deny I appreciate very much that all relationships are f/f.
There’s a content warning by the author and I think she handled very well the sensitive issues.
I won’t say more to avoid spoilers, but I encourage you to read this excellent book. I highly recommend it, but I also recommend to read book one first for the introduction and character’s background.
I am giving it 4.5 stars instead of 5 because there’s a loose end, although I hope this will be addressed in book three.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This time we witness the love story between Lara and Zoe and we get to know more about our beloved Seven Deadly Sins. Our sinful women were doing well until something awful and unexpected happened during a weekend in Brighton. Life will never be the same, mostly for Harry and Althea. Will their relationship survive?
I was eager to read this book because I enjoyed very much book one. The truth is I never expected the intensity, got me speechless. This book is still very very sexy but also much deeper. Has a variety of elements that make it so deep, intense, emotional and very good; we got a lot of high-quality sexy times, mystery, drama, intrigue, more sexy times, some other things in between and romance, turning it in a very well-written multi-layered story. There were parts that were hard, very intense and extremely emotional but these, fortify the story.
I really liked this book. Is different from what I expected, took me by surprise completely. TJ Dallas made an extraordinary job with the story, has a lot of very steamy sexy scenes and a lot more, as I mentioned before is a deeper story; is about family, friendship, disappointment, and mostly love and forgiveness. There are a lot of reasons that make this a great book, but I can’t deny I appreciate very much that all relationships are f/f.
There’s a content warning by the author and I think she handled very well the sensitive issues.
I won’t say more to avoid spoilers, but I encourage you to read this excellent book. I highly recommend it, but I also recommend to read book one first for the introduction and character’s background.
I am giving it 4.5 stars instead of 5 because there’s a loose end, although I hope this will be addressed in book three.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2020
I wasn't expecting such excellent writing with this being an erotic story. I was so wrong. Dallas is an excellent writer and storyteller. I read this without reading the blurb but I did read the first in the series. This story has so much within the sheets. The characters develop and grow. The sex scenes are hot and sensual. I'm looking forward to reading the next book. I'm glad I read this after the next is already out. Because I can't wait.
August 2, 2020
Most erotic romance novels tend to be heavy with sex scenes but the plot is weak but TJ Dallas manages to check ALL the boxes. Yes, the book is hot, hot, hot, but there’s also a very rich and complex world here. I love books that manage to blend multiple characters with multiple storylines and that’s very well done with this trilogy so far. In addition to getting a deeper look into some of the other Sins (Bella and Emilia), we stay in touch with Lara and Zoe and, of course, go deeper with Harry (pun intended). On a serious note though, Harry’s storyline takes a serious twist with a delicate subject matter and I feel the author did an amazing job of it. Not only am I anxiously awaiting the last book of this trilogy, I really hope the Pride Trilogy isn’t all we see of the world of the 7 Sins. There’s a lot of amazing characters here who could really stand out in their own books. Please, please, please Ms. Dallas, don’t stop at just 3. As for the rest of you, grab your tablet, your car keys, your wallet and get a copy of these books. They’re worth every penny.
August 8, 2020
I so enjoyed the bartenders pride that I wasn’t sure about the second book. I’m so glad I read it as I thoroughly enjoyed both of them and I’m about to read them again!
Can not wait for the third one to come out! Hopefully the third one won’t be long as I can’t wait.
Can not wait for the third one to come out! Hopefully the third one won’t be long as I can’t wait.
February 16, 2021
Wow book 2 is just as emotional and exciting as the first. It was heartbreaking to see Harry go through being assaulted and dealing with the aftermath. They all enjoy life to the fullest and care for each other deeply. I love these characters and am excited to read the last book in the trilogy.
June 17, 2025
I'm not going to spoil anything, just know that I'm impressed at the treatment of such a heavy subject.
May 13, 2022
Couldn't put it down!
Okay, phew... I knew from reading the first I would love this, but the series just gets better. Where to start...
The wit, the one-liners had me guffawing out loud at all hours or the night, because I couldn't put it down, (so TJ Dallas, you owe my neighbor's an apology!)
The sex, fantastically written, steamy, and delicious. Appreciated the different swoony pairings.
The plot, took me way longer than I care to admit to get the "aha!" moment about the title, but let's blame that on my mind being too engrossed in the beautiful story telling, among other things...
A darker plot which may make some uncomfortable, but sensitively written. My heart raced with the twists, I cheered along with Emilia throughout, the heroine of this one in my opinion. Each of the sins are just fascinating, and I cannot wait to get to know more about each of them. I've mentioned before my affections for Harry, but here, Emilia stole my heart.
Honestly, one of the best things I've ever read. I love the Scottish setting too.
Favorite parts of this include; the mascara/brush/lipstick skit, the tattoo gun, Emilia's wrath. Ugh, the palpitations! Delicious!
The epilogue warmed my heart and wet my cheeks.
I need a minute to recover and prepare for the next one! Fabulous work, thank you!
Okay, phew... I knew from reading the first I would love this, but the series just gets better. Where to start...
The wit, the one-liners had me guffawing out loud at all hours or the night, because I couldn't put it down, (so TJ Dallas, you owe my neighbor's an apology!)
The sex, fantastically written, steamy, and delicious. Appreciated the different swoony pairings.
The plot, took me way longer than I care to admit to get the "aha!" moment about the title, but let's blame that on my mind being too engrossed in the beautiful story telling, among other things...
A darker plot which may make some uncomfortable, but sensitively written. My heart raced with the twists, I cheered along with Emilia throughout, the heroine of this one in my opinion. Each of the sins are just fascinating, and I cannot wait to get to know more about each of them. I've mentioned before my affections for Harry, but here, Emilia stole my heart.
Honestly, one of the best things I've ever read. I love the Scottish setting too.
Favorite parts of this include; the mascara/brush/lipstick skit, the tattoo gun, Emilia's wrath. Ugh, the palpitations! Delicious!
The epilogue warmed my heart and wet my cheeks.
I need a minute to recover and prepare for the next one! Fabulous work, thank you!
March 12, 2022
Sad
I definitely wasn't expecting events to unfold as they did.
I feel like the main scene of the book could have been explained a little better and still could have been accomplished without going into too much detail. If it makes sense I feel like there was a time discrepancy.
I am giving 5 stars because the characters and the story of the Seven are just too good not to.
It was a pretty sad sequel but I'm still so very curious to see what happens next.
I definitely wasn't expecting events to unfold as they did.
I feel like the main scene of the book could have been explained a little better and still could have been accomplished without going into too much detail. If it makes sense I feel like there was a time discrepancy.
I am giving 5 stars because the characters and the story of the Seven are just too good not to.
It was a pretty sad sequel but I'm still so very curious to see what happens next.
August 6, 2020
Ok folks. Read this book. But read the first in this trilogy first, because, you know, it's really good too!!! Seriously!! I finished this second installment of the Pride trilogy in one day, because I had a very difficult time putting it down. T.J. goes a bit more in depth with the 7 deadly sins aspect, fleshing out all of the characters and making us love them for who they are. I connected with their traits, recognizing bits and pieces of myself. The eroticism is gripping (see what I did there, lol). Simply put, it's HOT🔥 🔥 🔥!!! I can't wait to read part 3, and you can be sure that this is a series I will read and read again!!
June 23, 2025
I binged on this series during more power outages, it was the perfect fit to keep my sanity.
This one had a bit darker tone and turned out very good. I got very fond of the characters quickly *cheers in fan*
This one had a bit darker tone and turned out very good. I got very fond of the characters quickly *cheers in fan*
Read
April 24, 2021Nah
February 20, 2021
Another enjoyable, significantly more emotional, erotica book. This book continues to follow the 7 Deadly Sins, and how they deal with one of their own being raped. I'll admit that I was little apprehensive about this book. Too often, authors use rape story lines for shock value without ever giving room for the seriousness or full impact of that terrible crime. And given that it felt a little bit like a cop out that Harry took Lara's depression from her at the end of the first book, I was worried that there was going to be another easy out. I had nothing to fear, I thought the story line was handled well, with majority of the story focused on that character coming to term and dealing with the aftermath.
This book added several more managers POV's: Harry, Emilia, & Bella. I'll admit I didn't see much purpose behind Bella's POV, other than to show another managers view and would have been fine without. I really enjoyed Harry's and Emilia's POV. Emilia and Riley are still my favorite mangers (Harry is a very close second!), and I'm still crossing my fingers we get a Riley POV next book!
I also really liked that we got to see the negative side of their embodiment from several of the Sins. They were wonderful in the first book and easy to forget that what they embody is generally frowned upon in society. Envy was the only one where we saw that negative side, but this book had several other of the managers falling victim to the negative aspect of their sin.
If you've read the first book (and if you haven't, you really need to) then you know how hot steamy that book was. Lots of sex happened, in a lot of different ways. While this book still had plenty of sex, it didn't feel as hot or steamy for me because I spent most of the book waiting for the character to realize that they were raped. So that seriousness kind of hanged over the story, kind of dampening the mood. But there are several extremely happy scenes that provided some balance, and the love and support all of the managers have for each other, really helped to alleviate some of the tension.
I am excited and nervous for the last book. Given that these first two books dealt with depression, attempted suicide, rape, and unwanted pregnancy, I am worried what is going to cause the emotional turmoil next. I'm not gonna lie, I would be totally fine with an X-rated hallmark rom-com for the next one, even if it feels slightly out of place and totally not relevant to the next books title.
If you enjoyed the first book, I would definitely recommend reading this one.
This book added several more managers POV's: Harry, Emilia, & Bella. I'll admit I didn't see much purpose behind Bella's POV, other than to show another managers view and would have been fine without. I really enjoyed Harry's and Emilia's POV. Emilia and Riley are still my favorite mangers (Harry is a very close second!), and I'm still crossing my fingers we get a Riley POV next book!
I also really liked that we got to see the negative side of their embodiment from several of the Sins. They were wonderful in the first book and easy to forget that what they embody is generally frowned upon in society. Envy was the only one where we saw that negative side, but this book had several other of the managers falling victim to the negative aspect of their sin.
If you've read the first book (and if you haven't, you really need to) then you know how hot steamy that book was. Lots of sex happened, in a lot of different ways. While this book still had plenty of sex, it didn't feel as hot or steamy for me because I spent most of the book waiting for the character to realize that they were raped. So that seriousness kind of hanged over the story, kind of dampening the mood. But there are several extremely happy scenes that provided some balance, and the love and support all of the managers have for each other, really helped to alleviate some of the tension.
I am excited and nervous for the last book. Given that these first two books dealt with depression, attempted suicide, rape, and unwanted pregnancy, I am worried what is going to cause the emotional turmoil next. I'm not gonna lie, I would be totally fine with an X-rated hallmark rom-com for the next one, even if it feels slightly out of place and totally not relevant to the next books title.
If you enjoyed the first book, I would definitely recommend reading this one.
May 27, 2021
DNF @21%
Lesbian erotica with fantasy elements is woefully short in supply and I hate that. I wish there was more women loving women being normalized in literature. But this ain't it.
I somehow slogged through the first book in the series (it was a mess and I hated it but I bought the whole trilogy so ...).
The good news is that the writing improved a lot since book 1. It's still the lower end of mediocre, but at least it's no longer the cringefest that were the first few chapters in the trilogy. The narration in general improved too, I think.
BUT.
The characters, story, dialogues, plot, fantasy elements ... everything sucks here. In book 1, the fact that this trilogy is about the seven deadly sins, personified as women, was badly explained. But I sfuck it out somehow. But this is book 2. A lot of fantastical shit happened at the end of book 1. I demand explanations! I demand a logical construction of paragraphs.
In short, I demand that the books I read are more readable than a 13-year old's first try at wattpad, with the plot and people all over the place, with no map where all of this shit is headed.
No, your characters are NOT THAT CUTE. I don't CARE. I want progression if I am to read 900 pages about Harry! I need stability, if not in the plot then at least in the quality of writing. I need to know what the heck is going on. I need the POVs to be chosen with purpose. If Maddison isn't a main character in this book, then WHY does she get a POV? Why do any of these people get a POV? What even is the plot? What are these women doing in Edinburgh? What even is the purpose of the fantasy element if all the characters do is mostly just telepathically chat with each other?
Just somebody explain any of this nonsense to me.
So there, I give up. There is no plausible way I can justify using my precious time on this series. Too bad, because heck yeah the world needs lesbian Paranormal Romance.
Lesbian erotica with fantasy elements is woefully short in supply and I hate that. I wish there was more women loving women being normalized in literature. But this ain't it.
I somehow slogged through the first book in the series (it was a mess and I hated it but I bought the whole trilogy so ...).
The good news is that the writing improved a lot since book 1. It's still the lower end of mediocre, but at least it's no longer the cringefest that were the first few chapters in the trilogy. The narration in general improved too, I think.
BUT.
The characters, story, dialogues, plot, fantasy elements ... everything sucks here. In book 1, the fact that this trilogy is about the seven deadly sins, personified as women, was badly explained. But I sfuck it out somehow. But this is book 2. A lot of fantastical shit happened at the end of book 1. I demand explanations! I demand a logical construction of paragraphs.
In short, I demand that the books I read are more readable than a 13-year old's first try at wattpad, with the plot and people all over the place, with no map where all of this shit is headed.
No, your characters are NOT THAT CUTE. I don't CARE. I want progression if I am to read 900 pages about Harry! I need stability, if not in the plot then at least in the quality of writing. I need to know what the heck is going on. I need the POVs to be chosen with purpose. If Maddison isn't a main character in this book, then WHY does she get a POV? Why do any of these people get a POV? What even is the plot? What are these women doing in Edinburgh? What even is the purpose of the fantasy element if all the characters do is mostly just telepathically chat with each other?
Just somebody explain any of this nonsense to me.
So there, I give up. There is no plausible way I can justify using my precious time on this series. Too bad, because heck yeah the world needs lesbian Paranormal Romance.
May 4, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this extremely unexpected Events.
I don't want to spoil and tell about these Events because these twists really grabbed me.
However, I have to say that my love for Harry has grown immeasurably. Whoever reads this sequel will understand what I mean.
The scene by the pool with all seven sins and with Lara and her wife Zoe is amazing.
So much happens in this second part that I can't say what blew me away the most. However, the scene at the pool is extremely well written!
We also get deeper insights into the world of Emilia, Bella and Riley.
So we can understand this Sins much better and also their sometimes deadly gifts.
What I found particularly nice is that TJ Dallas managed to arouse pity in me even for Envy (Madison).
Every character is so mature and masterfully integrated into the story. As soon as I finished a section, I thought, for example, "No, please don't stop talking about Harry and Althea."
However, the sections of Bella, Lara and Emilia were just as gripping and they all mesh a bit and complement each other really well for the development of the story.
All hot scenes were a pleasure!
Everything without exception!
I can't wait to read the next part!
I loved this extremely unexpected Events.
I don't want to spoil and tell about these Events because these twists really grabbed me.
However, I have to say that my love for Harry has grown immeasurably. Whoever reads this sequel will understand what I mean.
The scene by the pool with all seven sins and with Lara and her wife Zoe is amazing.
So much happens in this second part that I can't say what blew me away the most. However, the scene at the pool is extremely well written!
We also get deeper insights into the world of Emilia, Bella and Riley.
So we can understand this Sins much better and also their sometimes deadly gifts.
What I found particularly nice is that TJ Dallas managed to arouse pity in me even for Envy (Madison).
Every character is so mature and masterfully integrated into the story. As soon as I finished a section, I thought, for example, "No, please don't stop talking about Harry and Althea."
However, the sections of Bella, Lara and Emilia were just as gripping and they all mesh a bit and complement each other really well for the development of the story.
All hot scenes were a pleasure!
Everything without exception!
I can't wait to read the next part!
May 20, 2020
I got an ARC and so happy I was able to read the 2nd book in the Bartenders Pride trilogy. I loved this book, it was a super hot erotica novel with a story. I got sucked right into the story, the characters, so much so I couldn’t put the book down. I laughed, cried and got super horny reading this book. I’m going to be so sad when the trilogy ends, I’m so enjoying this world, these characters, I want more. This book caterers to what I like, somewhat supernatural (the seven deadly sins in the flesh), interesting characters that you think about when your not reading, and hot sex scenes, be them between two or more characters. My favorite thing about TJ Dallas’s two books, it’s erotica with a story. I generally won’t pick up erotica because there’s no plot, no story and I don’t relate to the characters, but with this series, I do relate and I enjoy getting to know the characters. So thank you TJ Dallas for a great read, for creating and sharing these ladies with us. Now I’m going to end this review and reread this book.
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.
May 5, 2020
FOR THE LOVE OF PRIDE!
I fell in love with these Sinful Women in The Bartender's Pride. TJ Dallas has surpassed my expectations and then some in this second book of the trilogy. There are even steamier erotic sex encounters paired with romantic gestures. The continuity of characters is smooth even as the rest of the Sinful Women are spotlighted across the book segments. The brilliant writing style is full multiple plot twists and surprises that kept me so captivated and engaged that I could barely put the book down. The vivid imagination and storyline are combined with sex around every corner as The Cardinal Women satisfy their desires among each other and with their chosen humans. I can say that Pride and The Stranger has a way of drawing you in and not letting go until the final paragraph. I'm now very impatiently awaiting the third book in this trilogy. Brilliant!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I fell in love with these Sinful Women in The Bartender's Pride. TJ Dallas has surpassed my expectations and then some in this second book of the trilogy. There are even steamier erotic sex encounters paired with romantic gestures. The continuity of characters is smooth even as the rest of the Sinful Women are spotlighted across the book segments. The brilliant writing style is full multiple plot twists and surprises that kept me so captivated and engaged that I could barely put the book down. The vivid imagination and storyline are combined with sex around every corner as The Cardinal Women satisfy their desires among each other and with their chosen humans. I can say that Pride and The Stranger has a way of drawing you in and not letting go until the final paragraph. I'm now very impatiently awaiting the third book in this trilogy. Brilliant!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2020
The second installment of this series provides just as much sexy heat and solid story as the first! TJ Dallas continues to deliver with these characters by keeping them true to their respective sins. I really enjoyed the paths the book and characters took while one in particular may be difficult for some. Whether it was vacation fun, in depth self reflection/recognition, or standing up and supporting and protecting family no matter what, these women ensure they come out on top (and how could they not when lead by Pride). For me, one path felt unfinished but I hope that the third (and unfortunately final) installment may revisit it. I enjoyed Riley and Bella getting a bit more exposure in this book too. There’s a lot going on within The Cardinal in this one but you won’t be disappointed.
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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