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Noir Reformatory #1
First Offense
Trapped in a world of sin and sexy alpha angels.
Forever defined by my black wings.
My father, King of the Nora, sent me to Noir Reformatory to atone for crimes I didn't commit.
So what's a girl to do? Escape, obviously.
Except I need allies to accomplish that feat and no one wants anything to do with King Sefid's daughter. If anything, my claim to the throne has only made running that much harder, and worse, I'm stuck with two hot angels standing in my way.
Auric is my supposed guardian, his white wings marking him as my superior in this deadly playground. Only, I'm his princess and I refuse to bow to a warrior like him.
And Novak, the notorious Prison King, is hell-bent on teaching me my place. Which he seems to think is beneath him. In his bed.
This prison resembles a training camp for soldiers more than a reformatory for the Fallen. I suspect something nefarious is at play here, but of course no one believes me. I'm the guilty princess with black wings. Well, I'll prove them all wrong. I just hope it isn't too late.
My Name is Princess Layla.
I'm innocent.
And I do not accept this fate.
Authors' Note: This is the beginning of a three-part dark paranormal ménage romance story featuring Layla, Auric and Novak. This book ends on a cliffhanger. The Noir Reformatory series is a paranormal prison series written by USA Today Bestselling Authors Lexi C. Foss and J.R. Thorn writing as Jennifer Thorn.
Forever defined by my black wings.
My father, King of the Nora, sent me to Noir Reformatory to atone for crimes I didn't commit.
So what's a girl to do? Escape, obviously.
Except I need allies to accomplish that feat and no one wants anything to do with King Sefid's daughter. If anything, my claim to the throne has only made running that much harder, and worse, I'm stuck with two hot angels standing in my way.
Auric is my supposed guardian, his white wings marking him as my superior in this deadly playground. Only, I'm his princess and I refuse to bow to a warrior like him.
And Novak, the notorious Prison King, is hell-bent on teaching me my place. Which he seems to think is beneath him. In his bed.
This prison resembles a training camp for soldiers more than a reformatory for the Fallen. I suspect something nefarious is at play here, but of course no one believes me. I'm the guilty princess with black wings. Well, I'll prove them all wrong. I just hope it isn't too late.
My Name is Princess Layla.
I'm innocent.
And I do not accept this fate.
Authors' Note: This is the beginning of a three-part dark paranormal ménage romance story featuring Layla, Auric and Novak. This book ends on a cliffhanger. The Noir Reformatory series is a paranormal prison series written by USA Today Bestselling Authors Lexi C. Foss and J.R. Thorn writing as Jennifer Thorn.
348 pages, ebook
First published January 11, 2021
541 people are currently reading
1276 people want to read
About the author
Lexi C. Foss
128 books3,191 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Lexi C. Foss loves to travel and write in supernatural worlds. Paranormal romance is her favorite genre, but she dabbles in contemporary romance when she needs a break from the darker side of her mind.
Coffee is her addiction, swimming is her passion, and she has a not-so-secret adoration for eclipse chasing.
Lexi can be found on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
Coffee is her addiction, swimming is her passion, and she has a not-so-secret adoration for eclipse chasing.
Lexi can be found on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
December 29, 2022
So.... Here we are. Once more. I'm still in a weird mood. It comes and goes. This was one of those situations where I needed a book to fall asleep to and my brain simply said "hmm why not?". I don't regret my decision but I also don't applaud it.
This was weird. I would have been a happier camper had I had some more background information. It really felt like I was just thrown to the wolves and expected to know how this world works. There were also POV's from the other trouple in the story which was just jarring and strange. It did nothing for the story either.
I think I wanted more story than I got with this book so it was pretty meh for me overall. I'm not planning on reading any future books in this series. I actually read the synopsis for the third book and got myself spoiled (on purpose) and I just want none of that.
This was weird. I would have been a happier camper had I had some more background information. It really felt like I was just thrown to the wolves and expected to know how this world works. There were also POV's from the other trouple in the story which was just jarring and strange. It did nothing for the story either.
I think I wanted more story than I got with this book so it was pretty meh for me overall. I'm not planning on reading any future books in this series. I actually read the synopsis for the third book and got myself spoiled (on purpose) and I just want none of that.
September 12, 2021
I really enjoyed the prequel to this book it pulled me in and invested me in the upcoming story and this then solidified that intrigue even more so for me.
This is Layla Auric and Novak’s story, Layla is the Nora princess heir to the crown when her wings turn black she finds her current circumstances vastly altered.
Escorted to Noir Reformatory by royal guard Auric her former childhood confidante and assigned bodyguard who also now appears to hate her she’s obviously adrift and frightened.
Her new nightmare existence is a definite culture shock and originally Auric is the only thing standing between her and the violent Noir inmates.
Novak an inmate who we met briefly in the previous prequel also takes an interest in Layla sensing in her a compatible mate.
Now with two fierce protectors one Nora and one Noir Layla will have to accept a whole new direction in her destiny.
So this was slow-burn there’s also some prior history between Auric and Novak.
Auric was initially a bit of a prejudiced ass to Layla and I wanted to give him a swift boot where the sun don’t shine that’s for sure.
He thankfully does swiftly come to the conclusion that there’s more going on here than meets the eye.
Novak I adored he definitely was my favourite character he’s mysterious and lethal a Noir angel of few words, I loved how he was both gentle and forceful allowing Layla to grow and decide for herself.
Layla well initially she was a bit annoying but mostly I think because of her upbringing and station she does evolve fairly swiftly and by the finish of this I did really like her, she grew in me.
This has M/M as well as the M/F/M as I said earlier it’s a gradual build-up with lots of smouldering tension.
It’s the first book in a series of six that is a collaboration between two authors.
We also get to catch up here with Raven, Sorin and Zian from the previous book which I greatly appreciated and they are an integral part of this story as well.
This is told from all three POV’s Layla, Auric and Novak and we also get a couple of chapters from Raven as well.
The world-building and character development here is again fabulous and I was left wanting more when this finished.
I will definitely be picking up book two I’m very intrigued to see where this series goes next especially with that grand finish.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Noir Reformatory (First Offence #2).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
November 1, 2024
I fucking loved this one. It is just perfect. The guys are hot as hell and just a little terrifying. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book.
October 21, 2024
Fallen angels in paranormal prison!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤❤️💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: ☺️😊🙃🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Duet Narration
The heroine: Princess Layla - she is a princess and heir to the throne of the Nora. However, her wings recently turned black, making her a Noir angel. Angel wings don’t turn black unless the angel commits a terrible sin, though Layla claims she did nothing and doesn’t deserve to be sent to Noir reformatory. Her father sends her there with the angel Auric as her guardian, because even though Layla is now a Noir angel, she is still heir to the throne.
The Heroes: Auric and Novak - Auric is the leader of the Kings guard and used to be guardian to Layla. They were friends before he went away. Though now he has returned to be her guard at Noir Reformatory. He hates Noir angels and is angry at Layla for whatever sin she committed that turned her wings black. Though he won’t bother to ask her what it was. He doesn’t want to know. He thinks she is beneath him and has ruined herself. Novak, used to be one of Auric’s elite warriors. He was the best of them before he fell, and his wings turned black. He is the strongest and most fearsome Noir angel in Noir Reformatory.
The story: Layla is placed in Noir Reformatory, and it isn’t long before both her and Auric find that the place isn’t what it is hyped to be. They realize that large amounts of culling of the Noir angels occurs there and that their very lives are in danger and there is no way to contact the King to let him know what is going on. They need Novak right away, and Auric has specific feeling about Novak since Novak’s once failed to follow one of Auric’s orders. Though once the culling begins and Layla is put in danger, Novak feels compelled to protect her.
I didn’t really like these characters as much as I liked Raven, Sorin and Zian in the first book. Though I was happy to see that those three appeared in this book as well. It turns out that Raven and Layla are actually cousins, and she is asked to help Layla get buy at Noir Reformatory. Layla is a pampered princess, so she has trouble at first. Even when her two men protect her and all three are locked into the same cell, and things start to heat up between the three of them, it causes issues because her father was supposed to choose her mate from the dukedom if they were able to fix her.
I liked the themes about how the Auric learns that what he always thought about Noir angels and why they fell, and their wings turned black. He learns that some Nora angels keep their white wings despite committing horrible deeds and how some of their wings turn black despite not having done anything all that terrible. There were also other storylines, like the one about the reformer (warden) of Noir reformatory who was Raven’s father and Layla’s uncle.
This audiobook was narrated in multiple points of view via duet narration. It was narrated by Cassandra Myles, Kale Williams, Lisa Zimmerman and Gregory Salinas. I love that this series is done in duet narration and that there are four narrators. That alone gives this a head up above a lot of audiobooks, I also like all of these narrators so that is another plus.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤❤️💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: ☺️😊🙃🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Duet Narration
The heroine: Princess Layla - she is a princess and heir to the throne of the Nora. However, her wings recently turned black, making her a Noir angel. Angel wings don’t turn black unless the angel commits a terrible sin, though Layla claims she did nothing and doesn’t deserve to be sent to Noir reformatory. Her father sends her there with the angel Auric as her guardian, because even though Layla is now a Noir angel, she is still heir to the throne.
The Heroes: Auric and Novak - Auric is the leader of the Kings guard and used to be guardian to Layla. They were friends before he went away. Though now he has returned to be her guard at Noir Reformatory. He hates Noir angels and is angry at Layla for whatever sin she committed that turned her wings black. Though he won’t bother to ask her what it was. He doesn’t want to know. He thinks she is beneath him and has ruined herself. Novak, used to be one of Auric’s elite warriors. He was the best of them before he fell, and his wings turned black. He is the strongest and most fearsome Noir angel in Noir Reformatory.
The story: Layla is placed in Noir Reformatory, and it isn’t long before both her and Auric find that the place isn’t what it is hyped to be. They realize that large amounts of culling of the Noir angels occurs there and that their very lives are in danger and there is no way to contact the King to let him know what is going on. They need Novak right away, and Auric has specific feeling about Novak since Novak’s once failed to follow one of Auric’s orders. Though once the culling begins and Layla is put in danger, Novak feels compelled to protect her.
I didn’t really like these characters as much as I liked Raven, Sorin and Zian in the first book. Though I was happy to see that those three appeared in this book as well. It turns out that Raven and Layla are actually cousins, and she is asked to help Layla get buy at Noir Reformatory. Layla is a pampered princess, so she has trouble at first. Even when her two men protect her and all three are locked into the same cell, and things start to heat up between the three of them, it causes issues because her father was supposed to choose her mate from the dukedom if they were able to fix her.
I liked the themes about how the Auric learns that what he always thought about Noir angels and why they fell, and their wings turned black. He learns that some Nora angels keep their white wings despite committing horrible deeds and how some of their wings turn black despite not having done anything all that terrible. There were also other storylines, like the one about the reformer (warden) of Noir reformatory who was Raven’s father and Layla’s uncle.
This audiobook was narrated in multiple points of view via duet narration. It was narrated by Cassandra Myles, Kale Williams, Lisa Zimmerman and Gregory Salinas. I love that this series is done in duet narration and that there are four narrators. That alone gives this a head up above a lot of audiobooks, I also like all of these narrators so that is another plus.
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March 22, 2021
Glad we got to see our original trio, alongside our new one
January 13, 2021
3.5 stars
I don't know why I always do this to myself and start a series that is not finished and has each book ending with a cliffhanger!
I really liked the first book The Beginning that was part of Paranormal Prison project, and because at the end of that one I still has a million question, I was looking forward for this installment.
I enjoyed this book. Good plot, good writing , twist and turns, steam, action, violence and still a million question still left to be answered.
This is Layla's , Auric and Novak's book. She is the Nora princess, suddenly turned Noir(her wings turned black because she committed a sin) and sent to Noir Reformatory to get her white wings back. Her guardian is Auric, the commander of Nora legions. All this characters have history together. Layla and Auric, Auric and Novak( who initial thought he fell because of Auric), but nothing can stop the call of mating between them. They are compatible and form a pretty good team, against all ods they succed to survive Sayir's games. The trio from the first book Raven Sorin and Zian are part of this too and some chapters are from Raven's pov.
The villain of this series has me so confused. I mean he is all manipulative, cruel, uses everyone's like pawns for his sadistic games, but I still can put my finger on his reasons or what he looks to accomplish. Intriguing bastard.
I m giving this 3.5 because Layla pissed me off several times. She is such a damsel in distress and naive,Always with a dry mouth unable to speak, always curling her arms around herself. For a royal princess she had no backbone whatsoever.At least Auric and Novak save this for me. Oh man, those guys lit the pages on fire.
**** MM/MF/MMF content.****
I don't know why I always do this to myself and start a series that is not finished and has each book ending with a cliffhanger!
I really liked the first book The Beginning that was part of Paranormal Prison project, and because at the end of that one I still has a million question, I was looking forward for this installment.
I enjoyed this book. Good plot, good writing , twist and turns, steam, action, violence and still a million question still left to be answered.
This is Layla's , Auric and Novak's book. She is the Nora princess, suddenly turned Noir(her wings turned black because she committed a sin) and sent to Noir Reformatory to get her white wings back. Her guardian is Auric, the commander of Nora legions. All this characters have history together. Layla and Auric, Auric and Novak( who initial thought he fell because of Auric), but nothing can stop the call of mating between them. They are compatible and form a pretty good team, against all ods they succed to survive Sayir's games. The trio from the first book Raven Sorin and Zian are part of this too and some chapters are from Raven's pov.
The villain of this series has me so confused. I mean he is all manipulative, cruel, uses everyone's like pawns for his sadistic games, but I still can put my finger on his reasons or what he looks to accomplish. Intriguing bastard.
I m giving this 3.5 because Layla pissed me off several times. She is such a damsel in distress and naive,Always with a dry mouth unable to speak, always curling her arms around herself. For a royal princess she had no backbone whatsoever.At least Auric and Novak save this for me. Oh man, those guys lit the pages on fire.
**** MM/MF/MMF content.****
November 10, 2022
Good start to the series. A little slow but I think it's building and giving good character development. Also there were only two porn scenes so really this could be considered high-brow literature
July 13, 2022
I’m not sure what happened here and I’m not in any great rush to find out what happens next. It wasn’t bad, wasn’t great, likely just not my cuppa. Maybe I’ll skip to the last book and see how things go.
January 15, 2021
I loved the return to Noir Reformatory with it's dangerous inmates and cruel, sadistic tests. There's a lot more going on here than meets the eye and this book set up the series fantastically. So many questions, twists, turns and revelations. There is a lot more to come, just what is the Reformers grand plan?
A fallen Princess, a stoic, protective Nora guard, a mysterious, dark and lethal Noir are forced together at this notorious prison. Is there a hidden agenda? There are so many intriguing secrets as the forbidden slow burn, simmering sexual tension ramps up between Layla, Auric and Novak. These three had chemistry but none more than Auric and Novak, their past history certainly not forgotten! Phew......bring me a fan these two men were hot!
The world building was wonderful and although most of the book built at a steady pace, the latter part packed a punch with a compelling ending that makes me impatient for what comes next!
4.25 dark, dangerous, sexy stars
A fallen Princess, a stoic, protective Nora guard, a mysterious, dark and lethal Noir are forced together at this notorious prison. Is there a hidden agenda? There are so many intriguing secrets as the forbidden slow burn, simmering sexual tension ramps up between Layla, Auric and Novak. These three had chemistry but none more than Auric and Novak, their past history certainly not forgotten! Phew......bring me a fan these two men were hot!
The world building was wonderful and although most of the book built at a steady pace, the latter part packed a punch with a compelling ending that makes me impatient for what comes next!
4.25 dark, dangerous, sexy stars
March 2, 2025
2.5 stars, rounded up because of the legendary demon mouse.
Eh. The synopsis implies that the heroine has way more agency than she actually does.
What escape attempt? What search for allies? What teaching (her her) place? What attempts to prove she is trustworthy? What indication that she doesn't accept her fate? I must have missed all of these.
On the contrary, she's a pretty passive main character and I find that not just uninspiring to read, but also disheartening - from anyone, but particularly from female authors.
The story is theoretically fairly dramatic, but I wasn't connected enough to any character but the mouse to care.
The writing is technically fine, barring a few instances of odd/awkward phrasing.
Eh. The synopsis implies that the heroine has way more agency than she actually does.
What escape attempt? What search for allies? What teaching (her her) place? What attempts to prove she is trustworthy? What indication that she doesn't accept her fate? I must have missed all of these.
On the contrary, she's a pretty passive main character and I find that not just uninspiring to read, but also disheartening - from anyone, but particularly from female authors.
The story is theoretically fairly dramatic, but I wasn't connected enough to any character but the mouse to care.
The writing is technically fine, barring a few instances of odd/awkward phrasing.
February 19, 2025
Actual rating is 4.5 but can't do partial stars on this app. I had a good time with this book! Will wait for the rest to be on audible before I continue the series.
November 13, 2021
DNF - quit at 41%
Welllll...this was a confusing mess. I really don't understand the 41% that I read, as there was no world building. Because there's no world building, nothing that happened made any sense to me. There's definitely a lot of angst/hate between the 3 main characters. I didn't appreciate that, as it was definitely a love/hate thing not a high school does he/doesn't he like me, and yea, I know, it's a thin line between love & hate, but it was too much angst between all 3 characters. There needed to be something to offset the angst/hate brewing in the air. I definitely did not feel chemistry or romantic type of interest even with the secondary characters' triad. It all felt like just sex. The sex scene between the 2 main guys felt like it was just meant to be shock value. It actually felt like hate sex, nothing I am interested in reading about. Especially since the world building didn't leave anything to let you know that M/M action was ok in this world or would happen. I was hoping by 41% that I would have an idea of why she had "fallen", but I wasn't even sure at that point what would lead to "falling" for any of the angel characters, since there was no world building or anything to even describe what or how to interpret what was happening. Definitely not interested in more from this series & I've read a few others from this author that I did like, I've had a few others that were also DNF from her as well.
At my age (60), life is way too short & my time is too important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
Welllll...this was a confusing mess. I really don't understand the 41% that I read, as there was no world building. Because there's no world building, nothing that happened made any sense to me. There's definitely a lot of angst/hate between the 3 main characters. I didn't appreciate that, as it was definitely a love/hate thing not a high school does he/doesn't he like me, and yea, I know, it's a thin line between love & hate, but it was too much angst between all 3 characters. There needed to be something to offset the angst/hate brewing in the air. I definitely did not feel chemistry or romantic type of interest even with the secondary characters' triad. It all felt like just sex. The sex scene between the 2 main guys felt like it was just meant to be shock value. It actually felt like hate sex, nothing I am interested in reading about. Especially since the world building didn't leave anything to let you know that M/M action was ok in this world or would happen. I was hoping by 41% that I would have an idea of why she had "fallen", but I wasn't even sure at that point what would lead to "falling" for any of the angel characters, since there was no world building or anything to even describe what or how to interpret what was happening. Definitely not interested in more from this series & I've read a few others from this author that I did like, I've had a few others that were also DNF from her as well.
At my age (60), life is way too short & my time is too important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
January 30, 2021
So this isn’t my first venture into the paranormal prison universe and I have to say, I am overall whelmed by this book. Now that isn’t to say this book was bad or anything, it’s just that recently I’ve been more hard to place than normal, maybe this is because of lockdown or something I don’t know but either way I enjoyed it for what it was but I’m not up here raving about it which honestly makes me kinda mad. Usually this sort of book is like catnip to me… I guess I’m prefacing my review with the fact that my opinion is biased because of my mood or whatever so take that into account if anyone reads this lol.
Right so, a reverse harem? Hello gimme gimme gimme. We are introduced to Auric, Novak and Layla. Can I just say as a small side note that I want to marry Novak and have a small league of his winged children mmkay thanks. Or sandwiched between Auric and Novak, that would equally suffice. Anyway, back to the point, we meet Layla and Auric first of course and I have to admit, I didn’t love Auric. I still don’t love him to be honest but he’s not horrible, we just didn’t mesh well him and me. Layla could’ve been stronger as a person to me. I get what she went through was traumatising, but she just kind of wilted in the face of adversity and I would’ve liked a little more strength in her character. I think she’ll grow more in the next book(s) so I guess I’ll have to keep on the look out… Novak. Novak Novak Novak. In case you can’t tell, he was my favourite character. I just loved his badassery, his no fucks attitude and the way he almost wanted to corrupt Layla a little - I don’t know what that says about me and honestly I don’t want to explore that any deeper.
Onto the plot; now I thought this could’ve moved a little faster for my tastes. It just felt like when you accidentally try to fast forward and pause a film at the same time, and so it does fast forward but only at a snails pace. There was plot, but everything was so drawn out it felt way too slow for me. I think they finally broke the sexy times draught (not including shower scenes) at about 70/80% which is complete madness to me. Like come on, yes I don’t want the whole thing to revolve around sex but still… throw a dog a bone am I right??
So to wrap things up, did I like it yes. Will I read the next one? Probably. Will I remember this book in 6 moths time? Unfortunately not and I think that’s the root of the problem. There was nothing for me that made this stand out from all the other reverse harem paranormal romances out there. It was fun and entertaining but it didn’t give me that extra special feeling. I wasn’t blown away. But I will say again it was fun and an enjoyable read and I probably would recommend this to anyone who wanted something on the lighter/easier side of reading sooooo let the reading commence!!!
Right so, a reverse harem? Hello gimme gimme gimme. We are introduced to Auric, Novak and Layla. Can I just say as a small side note that I want to marry Novak and have a small league of his winged children mmkay thanks. Or sandwiched between Auric and Novak, that would equally suffice. Anyway, back to the point, we meet Layla and Auric first of course and I have to admit, I didn’t love Auric. I still don’t love him to be honest but he’s not horrible, we just didn’t mesh well him and me. Layla could’ve been stronger as a person to me. I get what she went through was traumatising, but she just kind of wilted in the face of adversity and I would’ve liked a little more strength in her character. I think she’ll grow more in the next book(s) so I guess I’ll have to keep on the look out… Novak. Novak Novak Novak. In case you can’t tell, he was my favourite character. I just loved his badassery, his no fucks attitude and the way he almost wanted to corrupt Layla a little - I don’t know what that says about me and honestly I don’t want to explore that any deeper.
Onto the plot; now I thought this could’ve moved a little faster for my tastes. It just felt like when you accidentally try to fast forward and pause a film at the same time, and so it does fast forward but only at a snails pace. There was plot, but everything was so drawn out it felt way too slow for me. I think they finally broke the sexy times draught (not including shower scenes) at about 70/80% which is complete madness to me. Like come on, yes I don’t want the whole thing to revolve around sex but still… throw a dog a bone am I right??
So to wrap things up, did I like it yes. Will I read the next one? Probably. Will I remember this book in 6 moths time? Unfortunately not and I think that’s the root of the problem. There was nothing for me that made this stand out from all the other reverse harem paranormal romances out there. It was fun and entertaining but it didn’t give me that extra special feeling. I wasn’t blown away. But I will say again it was fun and an enjoyable read and I probably would recommend this to anyone who wanted something on the lighter/easier side of reading sooooo let the reading commence!!!
October 26, 2021
I dont think I have spoilers but maybe hints and I want to put a warning anyway.
Big ball of mystery. Thats pretty much this series. Your like geez hurry up and tell us and when you try and guess it yourself your wrong. How frustrating for us haha. So, this is about Layla, Princess whose Father is the King of the Nora. King of Noir, his brother is playing his stupid games still. He's got his own agenda and I still dont know exactly what he's trying to do. Clearly "Reformation" is bullcrap thats been kind of obvious from book 1 because it just didnt make sense and with Novak trying for so many decades without success and nobody knowing anyone who HAS reformed. He's a scary one for sure and gave up long ago to reform and doesnt care about nothing but survival and he's badass. Not one to mess with. Auric who was Layla's guard when she was young and now her protector is a Nora who has not Fallen. He's pissed me off this whole book pretty much with how he treated Layla because she Fell and he refused to believe she didnt do anything wrong to warrant Falling. He's a rule follower and refuses to believe anything else even though he was close with Layla years ago. Although you know he's got a thing for her but he's forbidden to act on it. This book is full of mystery and 3 people who are at odds most of the time but being potential mates for Layla has made it difficult to resist. Layla, I had my doubts because she's nothing like Raven who is a fighter. She was pretty timid for awhile but quickly started to stand up for herself and refuse to be treated like a child. She's got her own damn questions about everything and makes her opinion known more than once. I think the protagonist here is Auric because he's a warrior through and through and cant accept some things. Novak wanted her from the beginning but again he wants her to come to him. I think at first he wanted her to bend to him and just obey but I think he liked she was feisty and became stronger. I did find because they were all at odds throughout the book that it was difficult to emotionally tie themselves together. ITs really complicated their relationships and you'll just have to read it. Big ol twist at the end.
Big ball of mystery. Thats pretty much this series. Your like geez hurry up and tell us and when you try and guess it yourself your wrong. How frustrating for us haha. So, this is about Layla, Princess whose Father is the King of the Nora. King of Noir, his brother is playing his stupid games still. He's got his own agenda and I still dont know exactly what he's trying to do. Clearly "Reformation" is bullcrap thats been kind of obvious from book 1 because it just didnt make sense and with Novak trying for so many decades without success and nobody knowing anyone who HAS reformed. He's a scary one for sure and gave up long ago to reform and doesnt care about nothing but survival and he's badass. Not one to mess with. Auric who was Layla's guard when she was young and now her protector is a Nora who has not Fallen. He's pissed me off this whole book pretty much with how he treated Layla because she Fell and he refused to believe she didnt do anything wrong to warrant Falling. He's a rule follower and refuses to believe anything else even though he was close with Layla years ago. Although you know he's got a thing for her but he's forbidden to act on it. This book is full of mystery and 3 people who are at odds most of the time but being potential mates for Layla has made it difficult to resist. Layla, I had my doubts because she's nothing like Raven who is a fighter. She was pretty timid for awhile but quickly started to stand up for herself and refuse to be treated like a child. She's got her own damn questions about everything and makes her opinion known more than once. I think the protagonist here is Auric because he's a warrior through and through and cant accept some things. Novak wanted her from the beginning but again he wants her to come to him. I think at first he wanted her to bend to him and just obey but I think he liked she was feisty and became stronger. I did find because they were all at odds throughout the book that it was difficult to emotionally tie themselves together. ITs really complicated their relationships and you'll just have to read it. Big ol twist at the end.
January 14, 2021
Welcome to Noir Reformatory - where angels wear black in the most intimate of ways.
Lexi and Jenn have done it again, proving once again that they are a duo to be reckoned with in the why choose world. The seamless transition between authors shows the true understanding between these two, and the clear creative balance is impressive to say the least.
In this novel we return to the Noir Reformatory, where fallen angels come to live out their penance for their alleged sins. While this is technically a sequel, you do not need to read the first to make it through this without issue - but why not start with the original with its amazing repertoire of alpha males and a cunningly beautiful woman with skills of her own?
First Offense comes into its own early, and held me gripped to the end. The MMF dynamic is intense, and not by any means uncomfortable and awkward, thanks very much to the MM relationship. This is one of the greatest things about Lexi and Jenn's works: their males and their relationships make menage and RH not just bearable for someone like me who loves a true love dynamic, but very much a thrilling escape from reality.
Our Hs are both powerful characters in their own rights, and the changing POVs throughout the novel make it possible to truly understand their motivations, feelings and desires. As for our h, she is a dynamic character with a backstory that is actually interesting. While there is plenty of heat, this novel doesn't just rely on physical relations to fill in plot gaps.
Overall, this is definitely a book worth the pickup. It's exciting, sexy, and entirely its own beast with a great pair of authors who make it truly come alive.
**I was given an advance copy in exchange for my honest feedback. This review and the opinions contained within are entirely my own.**
Lexi and Jenn have done it again, proving once again that they are a duo to be reckoned with in the why choose world. The seamless transition between authors shows the true understanding between these two, and the clear creative balance is impressive to say the least.
In this novel we return to the Noir Reformatory, where fallen angels come to live out their penance for their alleged sins. While this is technically a sequel, you do not need to read the first to make it through this without issue - but why not start with the original with its amazing repertoire of alpha males and a cunningly beautiful woman with skills of her own?
First Offense comes into its own early, and held me gripped to the end. The MMF dynamic is intense, and not by any means uncomfortable and awkward, thanks very much to the MM relationship. This is one of the greatest things about Lexi and Jenn's works: their males and their relationships make menage and RH not just bearable for someone like me who loves a true love dynamic, but very much a thrilling escape from reality.
Our Hs are both powerful characters in their own rights, and the changing POVs throughout the novel make it possible to truly understand their motivations, feelings and desires. As for our h, she is a dynamic character with a backstory that is actually interesting. While there is plenty of heat, this novel doesn't just rely on physical relations to fill in plot gaps.
Overall, this is definitely a book worth the pickup. It's exciting, sexy, and entirely its own beast with a great pair of authors who make it truly come alive.
**I was given an advance copy in exchange for my honest feedback. This review and the opinions contained within are entirely my own.**
January 11, 2021
Whenever these authors get together you know that something magical is about to happen. They did it the first book, aptly named Noir Reformatory The Beginning and they have smashed it again in this.
There’s nothing not to love when they work together!
So back to First Offense....
Firstly, what’s different than NR? Well for starters we have new characters.
I fell in love with Novak in the first book and I’m still in love with him now...and now we have Layla and Auric added to the mix and they ain’t too bad either!
Secondly the world building. Okay, we still begin at Nightmare Penitentiary, which, if you’ve read the first book you will know that it is one of the dirtiest, crudest, darkest and most sadistic prison systems of this world. However, throughout the book, things happen and scenery changes and as usual, I am left in awe about how these two author’s imaginations can explode onto the pages. You think you’ve read it all and then you’re like “what the actual F is going on?”
Absolutely adored this book this world and the characters that reside in them and I cannot wait for the next book. More Novak to feast on and that can’t be a bad thing!
There’s nothing not to love when they work together!
So back to First Offense....
Firstly, what’s different than NR? Well for starters we have new characters.
I fell in love with Novak in the first book and I’m still in love with him now...and now we have Layla and Auric added to the mix and they ain’t too bad either!
Secondly the world building. Okay, we still begin at Nightmare Penitentiary, which, if you’ve read the first book you will know that it is one of the dirtiest, crudest, darkest and most sadistic prison systems of this world. However, throughout the book, things happen and scenery changes and as usual, I am left in awe about how these two author’s imaginations can explode onto the pages. You think you’ve read it all and then you’re like “what the actual F is going on?”
Absolutely adored this book this world and the characters that reside in them and I cannot wait for the next book. More Novak to feast on and that can’t be a bad thing!
January 19, 2021
⚙️⚙️ONE MAGNIFICENT JOURNEY⚙️⚙️
Holy hotness batman! This extremely talented duo meshes and mixes this incredibly compelling tilt-her-world, oozing with all the simmering heat, combustible desire and molten magic revving it up, hooking you from start and holding steady till the end, launching all of this sweetness to new heights. Attributes and perception in each layer you peel back with each page your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise, attentive to the arduous struggles and thrilling triumphs, exposing the gut-wretching twists and stunning turns unfold, reaching deep for every ounce of strength in a fierce surge of determination, blasting this baby into the eye of the hurricane, blowing it into a frenzy with an astonishing culmination, hurling this sweetness to life spectacularly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity, adding enough spice for an extra punch. Throw in 100% on point realism, painting graphic scenarios so colorfully descriptive with vivid detail its like you're living it with them instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Remarkable job guys, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
Holy hotness batman! This extremely talented duo meshes and mixes this incredibly compelling tilt-her-world, oozing with all the simmering heat, combustible desire and molten magic revving it up, hooking you from start and holding steady till the end, launching all of this sweetness to new heights. Attributes and perception in each layer you peel back with each page your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise, attentive to the arduous struggles and thrilling triumphs, exposing the gut-wretching twists and stunning turns unfold, reaching deep for every ounce of strength in a fierce surge of determination, blasting this baby into the eye of the hurricane, blowing it into a frenzy with an astonishing culmination, hurling this sweetness to life spectacularly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity, adding enough spice for an extra punch. Throw in 100% on point realism, painting graphic scenarios so colorfully descriptive with vivid detail its like you're living it with them instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Remarkable job guys, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
Read
January 28, 2023Whoa, these authors can really make 9-10 hours feel like about 5 minutes. WHERE did my entire evening go? I just devoured this book in one sitting and now I’m dying for Second Offense.
Obviously I just HAD to read on after reading Noir Reformatory: The Beginning as it was beyond addictive. This one starts out right in the thick of the dark, eventful prison setting and wastes no time whatsoever sucking in the reader, keeping on the edge of their seat for the entire time and then leaving them needing more in a brutal cliffie.
Expertly done, of course, by the cliffhanger queens themselves.
There are several mysteries afoot and it often seems like more questions arise than answers … the excitement is non-stop and neither is the action (of various types, if you get my drift 🌶️).
I cannot recommend this enough. Do read this series in order though.
5 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Audio:
This was a full-cast performance and all narrators were brilliant. 5-star performance all around.
Even if you’ve read a print or digital copy, you may want to listen to this one as well. It is 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.
Obviously I just HAD to read on after reading Noir Reformatory: The Beginning as it was beyond addictive. This one starts out right in the thick of the dark, eventful prison setting and wastes no time whatsoever sucking in the reader, keeping on the edge of their seat for the entire time and then leaving them needing more in a brutal cliffie.
Expertly done, of course, by the cliffhanger queens themselves.
There are several mysteries afoot and it often seems like more questions arise than answers … the excitement is non-stop and neither is the action (of various types, if you get my drift 🌶️).
I cannot recommend this enough. Do read this series in order though.
5 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Audio:
This was a full-cast performance and all narrators were brilliant. 5-star performance all around.
Even if you’ve read a print or digital copy, you may want to listen to this one as well. It is 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.
January 14, 2021
That's it I am calling dibs on Novak even though Captain Louise might stab me because holy hotness Batman!!!! I want to insert the gif from Billy Madison "so hot, want to touch the hiney" but I can't be bothered searching the internet for this so you will just have to picture this in your mind grapes. I actually went back to check my review on the first book in this series and I even said at this point that I was curious about Novak and I am no longer curious.
Speaking of my previous review, I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first one. Loads of development not just for the characters but overall story. There's quite a lot going on and it has set up the next book quite nicely as well. I really like Layla and Auric but I am sorry I am all about Novak...I am not sure you have been able to tell yet?
Anyway, I have a headache so I am not sure why I decided to do this right now but I feel the need to tell you one more time that Novak is supremely hot!
I received an ARC and because apparently I type utter rubbish with a headache, I have left an honest review.
Speaking of my previous review, I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first one. Loads of development not just for the characters but overall story. There's quite a lot going on and it has set up the next book quite nicely as well. I really like Layla and Auric but I am sorry I am all about Novak...I am not sure you have been able to tell yet?
Anyway, I have a headache so I am not sure why I decided to do this right now but I feel the need to tell you one more time that Novak is supremely hot!
I received an ARC and because apparently I type utter rubbish with a headache, I have left an honest review.
dnf
June 27, 2023“She’d been so alluring.
So beautiful.
So fragile and small.
Only sixteen years old, a female growing into her prime.”
🤢🤮
like i get it y’all like age differences but pleaaaaaaase can she not be a teenager when we do flash backs? like if she was let’s say twenty one when he found out she was his mate and the five years passed cool cool still young you still have idk a hundred years of an age gap but you know it’s not sixteen right? right? instead i get this and now the guy i’m supposed want to be end goal is a creepy old man that calls sixteen year old alluring…
fifty eight percent! that is too late to spring that in me!
the thing that makes it worse is he was her guard that used to train her from CHILDHOOD. you don’t know that she’s twenty one until you reach fifty eight percent. the whole time you think him and her are the same age bec she keeps hinting at and it give that vibe.
no i can’t
i went from kinda enjoying this with some frustrations to downright grossed out.
dnfed at sixty seven percent
So beautiful.
So fragile and small.
Only sixteen years old, a female growing into her prime.”
🤢🤮
like i get it y’all like age differences but pleaaaaaaase can she not be a teenager when we do flash backs? like if she was let’s say twenty one when he found out she was his mate and the five years passed cool cool still young you still have idk a hundred years of an age gap but you know it’s not sixteen right? right? instead i get this and now the guy i’m supposed want to be end goal is a creepy old man that calls sixteen year old alluring…
fifty eight percent! that is too late to spring that in me!
the thing that makes it worse is he was her guard that used to train her from CHILDHOOD. you don’t know that she’s twenty one until you reach fifty eight percent. the whole time you think him and her are the same age bec she keeps hinting at and it give that vibe.
no i can’t
i went from kinda enjoying this with some frustrations to downright grossed out.
dnfed at sixty seven percent
August 2, 2021
Novak and Auric
A princess, her guardian, and her dark warrior.
The trio are forced to share a locked cell inside the Noir Reformatory -- where the only battles were life or death, and the truth was obscured behind the mysterious plotting of the cruel mad Nora.
Layla quickly accepts her new reality of black wings obtained from her fall from grace... and then stumbles into the embrace of her fated mates. For a story that takes place in a single room, it moves along quickly... but the over all plot is barely progressed in this installment... we learn nothing new about the mysterious reasons behind a fall or the reformation lies.
The menage trios of Raven and Layla band together onto another test -- hoping we get some explanations in the next book!!! The hints and trickle of information can only keep me hooked for a short time. I'll give book 3 a chance a redemption! :D
A princess, her guardian, and her dark warrior.
The trio are forced to share a locked cell inside the Noir Reformatory -- where the only battles were life or death, and the truth was obscured behind the mysterious plotting of the cruel mad Nora.
Layla quickly accepts her new reality of black wings obtained from her fall from grace... and then stumbles into the embrace of her fated mates. For a story that takes place in a single room, it moves along quickly... but the over all plot is barely progressed in this installment... we learn nothing new about the mysterious reasons behind a fall or the reformation lies.
The menage trios of Raven and Layla band together onto another test -- hoping we get some explanations in the next book!!! The hints and trickle of information can only keep me hooked for a short time. I'll give book 3 a chance a redemption! :D
January 8, 2022
First of all I need to say that the multicast narration was super fantastic I loved all of the voices because they fit each character so well. This is my first time listening to Lisa Zimmerman and I am in love with her voice, and the way she performed was so good, the paced, tone, and emotions all portayed so perfectly. Cassandra Myles is back as Raven with her amazing voice that just fit the character so good. While Gregory Salinas and Kale Williams were so perfect for Novak and Orik, I love their voices and performances so much, they never fail.
And now, the story... I don't know what to say... I'm still processing what I just learnt... I had my theories and suspected somethings... but not this, really, not this. I cannot wait for the next book, because I need to know what's going to happen.
And now, the story... I don't know what to say... I'm still processing what I just learnt... I had my theories and suspected somethings... but not this, really, not this. I cannot wait for the next book, because I need to know what's going to happen.
January 11, 2021
It’s the First Offence😱
If you want to start reading this series, I would highly recommend Noir Reformatory: the beginning as it really sets the story up beautifully and when you enter this world again, you already have a slight understanding of what’s going on😁
First Offence is finally here and it’s pure magic❣️Layla is heir to the throne when she suddenly finds herself Fallen and Auric is her assigned protector whilst she undergoes reformation...but nothing is as it seems😢 An action packed mystery that is unraveling slowly and getting me more excited as I write this review as I think one puzzle piece has just clicked into place other than what the authors have revealed😜
I received an advanced copy and I willingly leave my honest review❤️
If you want to start reading this series, I would highly recommend Noir Reformatory: the beginning as it really sets the story up beautifully and when you enter this world again, you already have a slight understanding of what’s going on😁
First Offence is finally here and it’s pure magic❣️Layla is heir to the throne when she suddenly finds herself Fallen and Auric is her assigned protector whilst she undergoes reformation...but nothing is as it seems😢 An action packed mystery that is unraveling slowly and getting me more excited as I write this review as I think one puzzle piece has just clicked into place other than what the authors have revealed😜
I received an advanced copy and I willingly leave my honest review❤️
January 16, 2021
Great start
These authors are great together, imho. Better together than individually. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series (Raven’s). This book flows well, maybe even too fast; the characters are more than stereotypes; the editing is good. I like the larger story, it’s complicated enough to be interesting, but not stupidly convoluted. I wanted more time with the bonded relationship. Obviously this is a series so if lovey togetherness does not stamp itself all over the next book(s) I’m going to spew the hate. Public service announcement: subsequent books are NOT quickly forthcoming. I’m torn whether or not to wait for the whole series or suffer 6+ months between efforts.
These authors are great together, imho. Better together than individually. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series (Raven’s). This book flows well, maybe even too fast; the characters are more than stereotypes; the editing is good. I like the larger story, it’s complicated enough to be interesting, but not stupidly convoluted. I wanted more time with the bonded relationship. Obviously this is a series so if lovey togetherness does not stamp itself all over the next book(s) I’m going to spew the hate. Public service announcement: subsequent books are NOT quickly forthcoming. I’m torn whether or not to wait for the whole series or suffer 6+ months between efforts.
October 22, 2021
"After that prequel I was dying to see how the story will continue! Things were still uncertain and I wanted answers. Also, I wanted more chemistry off the charts and h*t scenes. To my surprise this is a series of somehow standalones and Geez I didn't expected that but loved everything about Novak and Auric! Both were different... Alphas. Kind of hard to put it in words but both were fascinating!! Did I mention di*ty and h*t? I was so intense lol. Though the reason why I'm giving it three stars is because Layla was annoying and so frustrating. How old was she? I would have expected someone more mature bit sadly she was like a kid at least to me. Aside from her childish attitude the plot was good, the background interesting as the first one. I'm looking forward to the next installment."
March 21, 2022
This dark fantasy Noir/Noira series pulled me in and has completely engulfed me in to this dangerous yet exhilarating world. The dynamics between these 3 MCs was intoxicating and a slow burn compared to the main characters within the first book. The ever changing plot has kept me on my toes, not knowing what’s coming next. This story is completely different from any of the angel series that I have read in the past and I am anxious to see where this plot leads us. I can’t wait for the release of the next installment, it can’t come soon enough!
(I also listened to the audio)
The combination of the four narrators really made this book come to life and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thankfully, the accents were not an issue this time around either.
(I also listened to the audio)
The combination of the four narrators really made this book come to life and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thankfully, the accents were not an issue this time around either.
January 10, 2021
What an utterly delicious read!!! Layla is an angel princess about to get a rude awakening. Suddenly spurned by her father the king, and angelkind as her wings turned black overnight. She's now thrust into a new world, one she'd never before imagined even within her nightmares. Sink or swim has never been more real. This book is filled with tons of action, mystery, surprises, and heat. It does end with a doozy of a cliffhanger so prepare yourself. I loved the character development and the intrigue factor here...I.honestly cannot wait to see what's up next. Book one definitely did a wonderful job of laying the foundation of this story....I for one look forward to seeing it play out.
January 14, 2021
Great first book of a new series! I need more!
The concept of a fallen angel prison intrigued me. At first, I was confused. This book started off reminding me of Omegaverse books(contains characters who act as Alpha males, Beta males, etc, and contains mm scenes), which I’m not usually into. But this turned around and became something different, something I’ve never heard of or read before. I’m really excited to read more!!!
Story 📖: 4/5 it took a while to really hook me, be I can see the set up in hindsight
Heat 🔥: 5/5 the sexual tension is high, even before any sex happens.
Cliffhanger 🏞: 4/5 great ending, I’m officially needing the next book!!
The concept of a fallen angel prison intrigued me. At first, I was confused. This book started off reminding me of Omegaverse books(contains characters who act as Alpha males, Beta males, etc, and contains mm scenes), which I’m not usually into. But this turned around and became something different, something I’ve never heard of or read before. I’m really excited to read more!!!
Story 📖: 4/5 it took a while to really hook me, be I can see the set up in hindsight
Heat 🔥: 5/5 the sexual tension is high, even before any sex happens.
Cliffhanger 🏞: 4/5 great ending, I’m officially needing the next book!!
September 7, 2021
It was hot, it was steamy, it had plot, it ended in a cliff hanger...
Not pleased about that last bit, but overall, I enjoyed this book. I listened to this via Audible and this is the first in the series I listed to. Waiting patiently until the book is released on 9.10.21. Will have to get the book and will definitely get the audible version once it's available as I loved the multicast narrators and loved Gregory Salinas portrayal of Novak.
I loved the world she created and wish more of that could've come to light. Maybe it was in the first book which I skipped? Either way, great read, good steam, some M+M action fyi, so if you're not into it, you may want to skip.
Not pleased about that last bit, but overall, I enjoyed this book. I listened to this via Audible and this is the first in the series I listed to. Waiting patiently until the book is released on 9.10.21. Will have to get the book and will definitely get the audible version once it's available as I loved the multicast narrators and loved Gregory Salinas portrayal of Novak.
I loved the world she created and wish more of that could've come to light. Maybe it was in the first book which I skipped? Either way, great read, good steam, some M+M action fyi, so if you're not into it, you may want to skip.
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