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The Tomb #1
Exposed
What happens when you take a woman disguised as a man and throw her in the most hostile prison in the world?
Ana
The Tomb. A prison run by inmates; it is home to the most despicable scum of the earth.
And me.
Ana, but call me Josh. My life depends on it.
After disguising myself as a man for years, a fluke landed me in the worst possible prison. I may know how to fight but nothing could have prepared me for the depravity of The Tomb.
When the leader of this horrid place, Ax, discovers my secret, I assume that is it—I’m done for. Ready to be tossed to the savages of The Tomb, he instead claims me as his own and teaches me things about my body I never knew possible.
I know I need to use Ax and his desire for me if I’m ever to escape this place and be safe again. But I never expected it would be my heart I needed to protect most.
***
Axle
Incarcerated as a child, I’ve spent most of my life in The Tomb and the last ten years leading it. When a new batch of prisoners come in, I discover a woman hiding in their midst. Her fearlessness intrigues me, and I decide to keep her for myself, and her secret.
Bloodthirsty and ruthless are how I have been described, but I can tell Ana is going to change things. My darkness and addictions seem to dissipate when she’s close, and I fall harder than I ever thought possible. Now to keep her hidden, keep her mine, and ensure no one learns her secret.
The Tomb is a dark, dystopian, prison romance series with and is meant for readers 18+
Ana
The Tomb. A prison run by inmates; it is home to the most despicable scum of the earth.
And me.
Ana, but call me Josh. My life depends on it.
After disguising myself as a man for years, a fluke landed me in the worst possible prison. I may know how to fight but nothing could have prepared me for the depravity of The Tomb.
When the leader of this horrid place, Ax, discovers my secret, I assume that is it—I’m done for. Ready to be tossed to the savages of The Tomb, he instead claims me as his own and teaches me things about my body I never knew possible.
I know I need to use Ax and his desire for me if I’m ever to escape this place and be safe again. But I never expected it would be my heart I needed to protect most.
***
Axle
Incarcerated as a child, I’ve spent most of my life in The Tomb and the last ten years leading it. When a new batch of prisoners come in, I discover a woman hiding in their midst. Her fearlessness intrigues me, and I decide to keep her for myself, and her secret.
Bloodthirsty and ruthless are how I have been described, but I can tell Ana is going to change things. My darkness and addictions seem to dissipate when she’s close, and I fall harder than I ever thought possible. Now to keep her hidden, keep her mine, and ensure no one learns her secret.
The Tomb is a dark, dystopian, prison romance series with and is meant for readers 18+
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2020
208 people are currently reading
384 people want to read
About the author
Ella Burns
19 books147 followersElla Burns is the offspring of a fairy queen and an undead warlord and was brought up with an appetite for terror and beauty.
A Canadian author, she would like nothing more than to abscond to the remote wilderness of British Columbia with her daughter and a Kindle full of dark reads. Since she was a child she dreamed of being an author and now writes a variety of darkness across several genres. Despite her love of the macabre, she will always have a soft spot for fuzzy things and a cuppa tea.
A Canadian author, she would like nothing more than to abscond to the remote wilderness of British Columbia with her daughter and a Kindle full of dark reads. Since she was a child she dreamed of being an author and now writes a variety of darkness across several genres. Despite her love of the macabre, she will always have a soft spot for fuzzy things and a cuppa tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
September 17, 2020
This one was interesting, set in an alternate dystopian future after something called the split the world is a dangerous place, especially for a woman.
Ana is such a female on her own since the death of her brother she goes by the name Josh.
Her disguise of being a man means that she can exist to a point in this dangerous new world.
Being thrown into the tomb a brutal male prison run by the inmates themselves was not on the cards.
Neither was coming to the leader Axel’s attention when he uncovers her hidden secret.
Surprisingly to Ana he claims her for himself actually wanting to protect her from the other inmates.
So this was quite intense in places it was a short read and does deal with some dark situations including rape-murder and self-harm.
This was mostly described as an observer second hand and though Ana has dealt with rape before we don’t get to experience it first hand here.
Axel is brutal and somewhat of a monster but to Ana once he discovers her secrets he’s almost sweet he also doesn’t try to escape his feelings for her going with his heart the instant he discovers She is a girl.
I did enjoy this but I did find it quite instalove and also I had a slight disconnect with the characters themselves.
There was a lack of groundwork when building up to the connection between Axel and Ana and though this was well written it did feel slightly rushed in places.
Especially the finish which was so swiftly and easily resolved.
Overall this was a decent enough read and this did give closure.
Though this is part of a series you can read this as a standalone no issue and though Ana and Axel's story continues on in book 2 there is no cliffhanger.
These are all separate stories all with closure.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
September 2, 2020
The Tomb is a place where just one Door exist. You go in breathing and come out dead.
The story starts with Ana who disguises herself as a boy in a future world which is an unfriendly place for woman to protect herself. She is on the wrong place at the wrong time and finds herself thrown into the Tomb, a self managed prison by inmates.
Axel is the big bad Wolf and leader down the Tomb and a savage in human form. Their journey begins when he greets the new people with savage and not a single nice word to show his position.
So, the characters may seem flat in the first 3-4 chapters and I first thought, okay, a prison story but Ella Burns proved me wrong and she did that quicker than a backslap! Both characters have depth and an amazing development through the story. Axel who grew up there developed some serious tendencies for selfharm down there to cope with the situation and the loss, to control how state of mind. But as he finds out about Ana she turns his world upside down and heals him partly but that's just his beginning for a change.
Ana on the other side discovers herself and the woman in her. It's not just sex and the steamy stuff (yes it is steamy and really good!) She also looses herself part by part to him and he is the same.
But that means that both have to develop and Mrs. Burns managed it, that this development is not a flat short description like I read a lot in other books.
Short, she wrote the heartbreaking story about 2 humans meeting at the worst place and healing each other. But that's not some type of magic bumm healing and everything is okay, no it's realistic and takes so much feels and there will always remain this hurt part in them you can sense and see.
Ana always said about herself that she is badass and can manage everything by herself, even protecting and fighting but Axel is extremely jealous and possessive over her. No wonder if she is the only kitty cat within a pack of Wolfe's. He would sell his soul for her and she is no damsel in distress as he might think and she will proof that.
I have never read a book with such a couple and nor with a badass h like this and even though she is badass Ana never loses her feminine streak, no, she develops it there for the first time in her life and Axel finds his peace in human form.
Wow this book is so much wow und I am flashed by it.
It sucked me in and I binged it as hard as I could. This year no book has had me crying and I read a lot, at least 2-4 books a week but none stole tears or so much heartaches from me. Thank you Mrs. Burns for this wonderful piece and the good time you gifted me. The Tomb is in my Top 5 reads for 2020 and I highly recommend it!
****** I was given an arc for an honest review *******
The story starts with Ana who disguises herself as a boy in a future world which is an unfriendly place for woman to protect herself. She is on the wrong place at the wrong time and finds herself thrown into the Tomb, a self managed prison by inmates.
Axel is the big bad Wolf and leader down the Tomb and a savage in human form. Their journey begins when he greets the new people with savage and not a single nice word to show his position.
So, the characters may seem flat in the first 3-4 chapters and I first thought, okay, a prison story but Ella Burns proved me wrong and she did that quicker than a backslap! Both characters have depth and an amazing development through the story. Axel who grew up there developed some serious tendencies for selfharm down there to cope with the situation and the loss, to control how state of mind. But as he finds out about Ana she turns his world upside down and heals him partly but that's just his beginning for a change.
Ana on the other side discovers herself and the woman in her. It's not just sex and the steamy stuff (yes it is steamy and really good!) She also looses herself part by part to him and he is the same.
But that means that both have to develop and Mrs. Burns managed it, that this development is not a flat short description like I read a lot in other books.
Short, she wrote the heartbreaking story about 2 humans meeting at the worst place and healing each other. But that's not some type of magic bumm healing and everything is okay, no it's realistic and takes so much feels and there will always remain this hurt part in them you can sense and see.
Ana always said about herself that she is badass and can manage everything by herself, even protecting and fighting but Axel is extremely jealous and possessive over her. No wonder if she is the only kitty cat within a pack of Wolfe's. He would sell his soul for her and she is no damsel in distress as he might think and she will proof that.
I have never read a book with such a couple and nor with a badass h like this and even though she is badass Ana never loses her feminine streak, no, she develops it there for the first time in her life and Axel finds his peace in human form.
Wow this book is so much wow und I am flashed by it.
It sucked me in and I binged it as hard as I could. This year no book has had me crying and I read a lot, at least 2-4 books a week but none stole tears or so much heartaches from me. Thank you Mrs. Burns for this wonderful piece and the good time you gifted me. The Tomb is in my Top 5 reads for 2020 and I highly recommend it!
****** I was given an arc for an honest review *******
September 2, 2020
Reviewed by PussnBooks.net
Review by Puss’n’Books. Reviewing the darkest, most erotic and taboo books we can find. Click HERE for your next disturbingly sexy read.
I picked up this book after I read the blurb because it sounded so good and unique!
I don’t think I’ve ever read one with a story quite like this and it intrigued me.
And I’m so glad I did.
It’s a dystopian novel set in a prison that is so rough and dangerous that it doesn’t even have any guards.
They just dump the food there once a month and then step back. Leaving the inmates to do their own thing.
If anyone tries to leave, they get shot on the spot.
No one leaves.
Ever.
ANA/JOSH
Ana has managed to get herself caught in the most fucked up situation she possibly could have.
She was at the wrong place at the wrong time and now?
Yeah, she’s in an all-male prison that no one ever leaves, dressed like a dude.
In this world, women are treated like they are only good for one thing and no one really cares enough to protect them from the scum of the earth...which seems to be most people if I’m honest.
When she was not much more than a child she was raped and since then she and her brother disguised her as a boy.
Taught her how to walk and talk like a boy.
Dress like a boy and fight like a boy.
Unfortunately, years later, she gets arrested like a boy.
This prison she’s sent to scares the bejeesus outta me.
It makes me think of Sona in the TV show Prison Break.
Filled with extremely scary men who would love nothing more than to get their hands on a female.
On her first day there she manages to attract the attention of two males.
One is the man that rules the roost and the other is a man who likes to rape and torture boys to death.
AXLE
This dude here has demons. And how could he not?
He’s been raised in this hellish prison since he was six years old.
He has an extreme thirst for violence and bloodshed.
He needs to kill to keep his inner demons quiet...for a while.
You can imagine how much of a beast this man is because he’s managed to keep the title as ruler in this hellhole since he challenged and killed the previous leader when he was 16!
In the latest shipment of prisoners, he spots one young lad and can’t quite put his finger on what’s different about him.
Until he gets him alone and finds out ‘he’ is a ‘she’.
And so he’s kinda like “...hmm...now what?”
This is when shit gets interesting!
SEX SCENES
My breath is ragged as he explores me with his mouth. I’ve never had an orgasm that wasn’t by my own hand. I feel something building within me beyond anything I’ve ever experienced. He doesn’t let up, bringing me higher up this peak. Just when I think I can’t take it, he pushes a finger inside me. I explode around him, pulling the nearest fabric to my mouth to keep from crying out too loudly. He doesn’t let up and presses another finger inside me, tearing pleasure from me, wave after wave. I had no idea it could feel this like. My entire body quivers, unable to keep still. It takes a while for me to finally come down. When I do, I want more. I crave more. I crave him. I want him deep inside me. “Please,” I whisper, running my fingers through his hair. He plants one last kiss on my clit making me shudder, before bringing his mouth back up to mine. I can taste myself on him and I am surprised by how erotic I find it. My nails dig into his shoulders as I press my hips towards him, giving him the permission of my body. A slight moment of panic when I feel his hardness at my entrance, but his lips find mine and I quickly melt back into them. I’m grateful he is going slowly, knowing full well he could tear me apart if he wanted to. I plan to show him my gratitude with my body, which pulses and aches for him. Shifting my hips forward so he slides into my wetness and I gasp against him. I’m so tight it’s painful but when his hand comes down to rub my nub, my body relaxes, and he slides into the hilt. Still inside me he doesn’t move for a moment except to tease my clit until I cry out again, tensing around him. Holy fuck. As I come down, he begins to move his hips, filling me in a way I never thought possible. “Axle,” I moan as his movements get faster. “Let go for me,” he whispers into my ear. My nails dig in tighter and it only seems to spur him on more. I arch my back as his movements quicken, rolling my hips to get as close to him as possible. I feel his body stiffen right before he lets out a mighty roar as he spills deeply into me, pushing me over the edge one last time.
FINAL THOUGHTS on THE TOMB by Ella Burns.
This was such a good read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It started out dark and intense but turned a little ‘insta-love’. Otherwise, it would have been a 5-star read. I found that I wanted him to be more of an alpha-hole before realising how much he felt for her or being gentle with her. I like my men rough and dark to the core though, lol.
4.5 Stars.
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August 24, 2021
3.75
Great dialogue, epic fights, pure brutality and a setting in prison.
I do love me a good harsh dystopian tale.
And this was so good.
Will be reading the rest💪
Read: 24/08/2021
1st rating: 3.75 stars
Genre/tropes: Dystopian/dark/romance
Cover: 3 stars
POV’s: Dual 1st person (Axle & Ana)
Will I recommend: Yes
Great dialogue, epic fights, pure brutality and a setting in prison.
I do love me a good harsh dystopian tale.
And this was so good.
Will be reading the rest💪
Read: 24/08/2021
1st rating: 3.75 stars
Genre/tropes: Dystopian/dark/romance
Cover: 3 stars
POV’s: Dual 1st person (Axle & Ana)
Will I recommend: Yes
August 30, 2020
The writing and editing of the ARC version of the manuscript was fairly clean, with occasional typos. Hopefully that will be fixed in the retail version. The world building was pretty bad, with me not getting any details about what caused the collapse of society or any of the political realities of the world beyond the prison. The prison itself was sketchily described, and I never got a good picture of what it looked like. The characterization was minimal, with the me the reader not really getting a good feel for either the hero or heroine as complex people. The development of the romantic relationship left me largely unmoved, maybe because the characterization was not good enough for me to emotionally invest in either of these characters. The plot and pacing had a lot of action, but I struggled a bit getting through this novel. There was high angst and very high stakes, but I did not especially enjoy the high stakes in this novel. I typically enjoy high stakes in a romance novel. This novel used the Cross-Dressing Heroine trope and the Prison Planet trope. The world building was two stars. The plot and pacing were three stars. The characterization and development of the romantic relationship were also two stars. The combined score of this novel was therefore two stars for me. This is the first novel in a trilogy, but thankfully it did not end on a cliffhanger, so that is a plus. I do not recommend this novel for readers who enjoy the Prison Planet trope, because there are many better romance novels that use that trope. I am uninterested in reading the next novel in this series, and I will not be buying myself a keeper copy of this novel.
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.
September 5, 2020
Sigh... Godddd, why did this bitch annoyed me so muchh!
As a woman who was taken into a prison ruled by the prisoners themselves (don't ask me the history behind that, I don't care), which was filled with rapists, murderers, psychos and cannibals; she'd stupidly put herself into the centre of attention of the dangerous people there. Picking fights with the rapists, fighting over meals, just the stupidest reason to draw attention to herself. There is a difference between bravery and stupidity and oh boy is she the epitome of stupidity and recklessness.
Romance-wise, it was tame. I was expecting something more gory, hence why I was excited for the kill count. Alas, it was too instalovey for me. The hero found out she's the girl and almost immediately they bang. Where's the tension? The struggles?
I just can't.
As a woman who was taken into a prison ruled by the prisoners themselves (don't ask me the history behind that, I don't care), which was filled with rapists, murderers, psychos and cannibals; she'd stupidly put herself into the centre of attention of the dangerous people there. Picking fights with the rapists, fighting over meals, just the stupidest reason to draw attention to herself. There is a difference between bravery and stupidity and oh boy is she the epitome of stupidity and recklessness.
Romance-wise, it was tame. I was expecting something more gory, hence why I was excited for the kill count. Alas, it was too instalovey for me. The hero found out she's the girl and almost immediately they bang. Where's the tension? The struggles?
I just can't.
October 28, 2020
So glad I stepped out of my comfort zone with this one. This is why I love mixing up genres and keeping my reads fresh.
If you like dark, gritty, bloody and dystopian, in a prison setting—this is for you! I love that this is a prison with men only, and someone new comes in with a secret. Axle, the leader of this shindig and the baddest, meanest guy around notices something peculiar about “Josh.”
Trigger warnings: this book has cutting in it, and violence as a means to quiet the “voices” and “urges.” That is until this new person comes into view with a balm that only this person can give.
I’m so glad I gave this one a chance, and can’t wait to continue!
If you like dark, gritty, bloody and dystopian, in a prison setting—this is for you! I love that this is a prison with men only, and someone new comes in with a secret. Axle, the leader of this shindig and the baddest, meanest guy around notices something peculiar about “Josh.”
Trigger warnings: this book has cutting in it, and violence as a means to quiet the “voices” and “urges.” That is until this new person comes into view with a balm that only this person can give.
I’m so glad I gave this one a chance, and can’t wait to continue!
August 27, 2025
Story was not good. Borderline ridiculous. So many things here made no damn sense, and to top it off we have a TSTL fmc.When she told the mmc she didn't need his help and could take care of herself--after already being saved twice, I should add--I really started to dislike her. You can be strong, but don't be stupid. Only in fiction would this fmc survive in the tomb.
September 3, 2020
I do love a good prison book. And with a cover like that, I had to dive in.
I was intrigued by the concept (not the first time I've read something similar). Girl gets tossed into a prison run by prisoners. Girl is pretending to be a boy in order to survive.
Ana is our girl. She goes by Josh. Once she enters The Tomb, she gets a prisoners welcome .. as does the rest of the new fish.
The Tomb is currently be led by a man named Axe. Baby boy sometimes likes to get dirty in the pit.
__________
The cheers around me don’t still the demons in my body, only the scent of blood and the feel of death under my hand can calm the fire.
__________
Of course, you can probably guess that these two individuals will meet up in our story..and become our shining couple. I mean.. our only couple. After all, no one knows she's a she and not a he.
__________
A queen in Hell must be strong, and I can only hope she is right, and she has the strength to survive the Tomb.
__________
The story goes by pretty quickly. I felt that more depth could have been given to our two main characters. But the over all story and climax was worth it.
For those who are curious.. this book, I guess, can be classified as dark. But it is not pitch black.
I was intrigued by the concept (not the first time I've read something similar). Girl gets tossed into a prison run by prisoners. Girl is pretending to be a boy in order to survive.
Ana is our girl. She goes by Josh. Once she enters The Tomb, she gets a prisoners welcome .. as does the rest of the new fish.
The Tomb is currently be led by a man named Axe. Baby boy sometimes likes to get dirty in the pit.
__________
The cheers around me don’t still the demons in my body, only the scent of blood and the feel of death under my hand can calm the fire.
__________
Of course, you can probably guess that these two individuals will meet up in our story..and become our shining couple. I mean.. our only couple. After all, no one knows she's a she and not a he.
__________
A queen in Hell must be strong, and I can only hope she is right, and she has the strength to survive the Tomb.
__________
The story goes by pretty quickly. I felt that more depth could have been given to our two main characters. But the over all story and climax was worth it.
For those who are curious.. this book, I guess, can be classified as dark. But it is not pitch black.
September 24, 2020
Shuuuuut Up!!! Have you ever stumbled upon a book you didn't know you needed in your life!?
Dark Romance, Prison Romance, Dystopian. Not really the top things I list when I'm looking for a book but I am SHOOK!
I went in completely blind and this is a new to me author, I am sooooo glad I stepped out of my comfort zone because The Tomb: Exposed was AMAZING! It was exhilarating, high paced, INTENSE, grisly, bloody and brutal!
Ana aka "Josh" has just been dropped off at a prison run by the most savage of inmates, she is disguised as a man and just reading about some of the things these prisoners have done and will do, I was so scared for her to be found out, I mean just think about it a woman amongst these depraved heathens!?
The leader of The Tombs, Axle quickly finds out her secret and that's when everything changes!
Diving into book 2 now, I need more!!
Dark Romance, Prison Romance, Dystopian. Not really the top things I list when I'm looking for a book but I am SHOOK!
I went in completely blind and this is a new to me author, I am sooooo glad I stepped out of my comfort zone because The Tomb: Exposed was AMAZING! It was exhilarating, high paced, INTENSE, grisly, bloody and brutal!
Ana aka "Josh" has just been dropped off at a prison run by the most savage of inmates, she is disguised as a man and just reading about some of the things these prisoners have done and will do, I was so scared for her to be found out, I mean just think about it a woman amongst these depraved heathens!?
The leader of The Tombs, Axle quickly finds out her secret and that's when everything changes!
Diving into book 2 now, I need more!!
September 2, 2020
The Tomb by Ella Burns is a dark, delicious read! Set in a Dystopian prison, this book is definitely different then those you may have read before. The main characters, Axle and Ana, are both strong, entertaining characters and I enjoyed their near insta-love. If you are looking for a dark, gritty book with a unique take on romance, then grab this one! 4 Stars!
November 2, 2020
This started off very dark and I was looking forward to it. The instant Axle found out Ana was a woman there was Insta-lust/love and the characters changed. I couldn't really picture the prison in my mind - I kept channeling Spartacus! LOL. There were some typos, although nothing that detracted. The use of basically, literally and totally, for no reason was annoying. There are probably triggers for some readers, so be aware of that. This book is filled with bloodshed and disturbing scenes. I usually love these type of books, but this one didn't grab me. I'll probably try another one by this author.
Want to read
October 29, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/29/2020)! 🎁
August 16, 2020
Wow! This read was such a trip! Let me start of by saying that Ella Burns does not hold back! This is a dark read and the violence begins right from the start! If you enjoy that edgy kind of read, where the writer takes you to that point of despair, then this is the book that will deliver on that level.
The Tomb: Exposed is a dark prison romance set in a futuristic society called New Europe. The story is written in dual POV and starts right in the middle of Josh/Ana’s sentencing/imprisonment. As a new prisoner of the Tomb, the convict-run imprisonment has its own set of rules, it’s a bloody free-for-all! Josh/Ana must maintain her disguise in The Tomb, lest the carnal inmates figure out a woman is in their midst and devour her whole. Ana is feisty and can certainly hold her own, but she’s out of her depth in The Tomb, and no amount of preparation to take on an attack or a hoard of female deprived men can prepare her for the chaos of The Tomb. When Axel discovers Josh’s true identity, he will do everything his power to protect Ana.
And this is the heart of the story.
Axel, designated leader of The Tomb, want to ensure that the new batch of prisoners have stepped right into hell. He is ruthless and shows no mercy, but the discovery of Josh’s true identity shifts Axel’s priorities. His transformation is swift and he will not stop at anything to protect what is his!
This is a dark, action packed romance that will leave you wanting more! Bravo to Ms Burns! I cannot wait what’s in story for us in Ensnared!
The Tomb: Exposed is a dark prison romance set in a futuristic society called New Europe. The story is written in dual POV and starts right in the middle of Josh/Ana’s sentencing/imprisonment. As a new prisoner of the Tomb, the convict-run imprisonment has its own set of rules, it’s a bloody free-for-all! Josh/Ana must maintain her disguise in The Tomb, lest the carnal inmates figure out a woman is in their midst and devour her whole. Ana is feisty and can certainly hold her own, but she’s out of her depth in The Tomb, and no amount of preparation to take on an attack or a hoard of female deprived men can prepare her for the chaos of The Tomb. When Axel discovers Josh’s true identity, he will do everything his power to protect Ana.
And this is the heart of the story.
Axel, designated leader of The Tomb, want to ensure that the new batch of prisoners have stepped right into hell. He is ruthless and shows no mercy, but the discovery of Josh’s true identity shifts Axel’s priorities. His transformation is swift and he will not stop at anything to protect what is his!
This is a dark, action packed romance that will leave you wanting more! Bravo to Ms Burns! I cannot wait what’s in story for us in Ensnared!
August 6, 2020
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Having previously read the prequel to the series, I was already a bit familiar to how the series would be like. Burns sets a compelling narrative the entire book. I don’t have too many books where I’m so wrapped up in a story before but I found myself so invested in Ana/Josh and Axle. Even Theo. (And of course Ethan). I loved Axle even as perplexed as I was by his mental state but really the star of the show was Ana. Initially starting the book, I had fully expected Ana to go into the Pit with Cole but by the time it came to it, I had expected it to be Axle because Burns’ writing just made me so fully invested in the characters’ thoughts that I could barely make my own predictions. I loved, loved the fight. I loved how Ana kept herself going and I love that she won. I thought it was a surprise and sweet that Axle had declared her the new leader. He genuinely could have just accepted it as a win instead of what it really was- a challenge for leadership but he actually took it into stride. I’m excited for the next book (though I will admit that I’m disappointed it didn’t end for our couple as it perfectly was in my opinion) and to see how The Tomb blossoms under Ana’s leadership.
My main complaint is there really isn’t info on how things came to be for our characters. The Tomb is vaguely described but what is The Split? Readers are left to their own devices regarding as to what has happened in the world outside.
Having previously read the prequel to the series, I was already a bit familiar to how the series would be like. Burns sets a compelling narrative the entire book. I don’t have too many books where I’m so wrapped up in a story before but I found myself so invested in Ana/Josh and Axle. Even Theo. (And of course Ethan). I loved Axle even as perplexed as I was by his mental state but really the star of the show was Ana. Initially starting the book, I had fully expected Ana to go into the Pit with Cole but by the time it came to it, I had expected it to be Axle because Burns’ writing just made me so fully invested in the characters’ thoughts that I could barely make my own predictions. I loved, loved the fight. I loved how Ana kept herself going and I love that she won. I thought it was a surprise and sweet that Axle had declared her the new leader. He genuinely could have just accepted it as a win instead of what it really was- a challenge for leadership but he actually took it into stride. I’m excited for the next book (though I will admit that I’m disappointed it didn’t end for our couple as it perfectly was in my opinion) and to see how The Tomb blossoms under Ana’s leadership.
My main complaint is there really isn’t info on how things came to be for our characters. The Tomb is vaguely described but what is The Split? Readers are left to their own devices regarding as to what has happened in the world outside.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. The Tomb is an interesting concept for a romance book. A women who’s disguised as a man to protect herself for the last 8 years ends up in a prison run by the prisoners and there are no women. I thought it was written real well. There were a couple things that kind of bugged me that I can’t mention or I’ll spoil it but I still enjoyed reading it. I’ll definitely read the rest of the series!
December 6, 2020
Completely MESMERIZING 😁
A Fan-freaking-tastic story of violence and insanity in what could easily become to the world 🤐. Prison has never been supposed to be a good place, it's supposed to be a place of rehabilitation, but it's NOT 😖. It's just a place where those with power can abuse those that don't and if you take away the guards, all you have is anarchy 😡. Thanks Ella, I TRULY loved this book and look forward to reading more by you 🤓.
A Fan-freaking-tastic story of violence and insanity in what could easily become to the world 🤐. Prison has never been supposed to be a good place, it's supposed to be a place of rehabilitation, but it's NOT 😖. It's just a place where those with power can abuse those that don't and if you take away the guards, all you have is anarchy 😡. Thanks Ella, I TRULY loved this book and look forward to reading more by you 🤓.
February 14, 2021
Hold your breath and smile.
This is one past paced edge of your seat tale. It’s gritty and fun. You won’t be able to help but hold your breath and smile. The emotions and chemistry flow well. I found the characters easy to connect to. I can’t wait to see what’s next.
This is one past paced edge of your seat tale. It’s gritty and fun. You won’t be able to help but hold your breath and smile. The emotions and chemistry flow well. I found the characters easy to connect to. I can’t wait to see what’s next.
August 29, 2020
What a story. Ana who calls herself Josh to keep herself safe, lands in an extremely bad prison. I couldn’t read quick enough to find out if she’s safe. Ready for more.
November 29, 2020
Daringly different
What a totally different spin. Not something I would generally seek out, but glad I have.
A ruthless jail, run by its inmates, Ana is thrust in disguised as a but after world outside world seems to be in a pandemic. Certainly fitting for 2020.
What will become of those incarcerated?
What a totally different spin. Not something I would generally seek out, but glad I have.
A ruthless jail, run by its inmates, Ana is thrust in disguised as a but after world outside world seems to be in a pandemic. Certainly fitting for 2020.
What will become of those incarcerated?
August 2, 2021
Captivating and gritty story
I stumbled upon this book by accident, drawn to the blurb, and it turned out to be one of the best books I've read this year. I felt as if I were watching one of the latest science fiction movies, dark and gritty set within oppressive, foreboding stone walls, tenebrous dark corners, and coarse men. So well-written, I could visualize this dystopian, prison romance playing in my mind, a stonewall tomb enclosing characters living in their basic elements. What could be better?
The story entails "Josh" (Ana), though innocent, arriving to be confined in an inmate-run prison due to a series of misfortunate life events. All matter of convicts -- all except women, from the barely civilized to the elderly, live in this maximum penitentiary absent of state-sponsored guards. The only rule is to stay alive. Striving to contain his inner demons through blood and violence, Axle rules the Tomb, unbeatable. The story describes the growing relationship between Axle and Ana.
The characters were relatable, distinctly well-developed. The heroine, Ana was self-reliant, strong, and often daring, sometimes reckless. The hero was portrayed as fearless, brutish, barely containing his personal flames of unrest until he encounters the salve to his soul, Ana whom he then vows to protect, to keep hidden. Though Axle was not a "nice guy," the sensitivity with which he interacted the fearless Ana was touching. The characters' chemistry tangible, off the charts steamy, barely contained attraction.
Characterization was also defined by a diversity of personalities with depth and range. While there were the truly bad, mostly there was dimension to the characters, particularly the hero, heroine, and closest friends. The pace was perfect, "unputdownable," not too slow or fast. The world building was clear, vivid, and set me front and center. Just an overall excellent, captivating storyline.
This book was a pleasant surprise, truly excellent read, and one of those stories that when finished I wanted more.
I stumbled upon this book by accident, drawn to the blurb, and it turned out to be one of the best books I've read this year. I felt as if I were watching one of the latest science fiction movies, dark and gritty set within oppressive, foreboding stone walls, tenebrous dark corners, and coarse men. So well-written, I could visualize this dystopian, prison romance playing in my mind, a stonewall tomb enclosing characters living in their basic elements. What could be better?
The story entails "Josh" (Ana), though innocent, arriving to be confined in an inmate-run prison due to a series of misfortunate life events. All matter of convicts -- all except women, from the barely civilized to the elderly, live in this maximum penitentiary absent of state-sponsored guards. The only rule is to stay alive. Striving to contain his inner demons through blood and violence, Axle rules the Tomb, unbeatable. The story describes the growing relationship between Axle and Ana.
The characters were relatable, distinctly well-developed. The heroine, Ana was self-reliant, strong, and often daring, sometimes reckless. The hero was portrayed as fearless, brutish, barely containing his personal flames of unrest until he encounters the salve to his soul, Ana whom he then vows to protect, to keep hidden. Though Axle was not a "nice guy," the sensitivity with which he interacted the fearless Ana was touching. The characters' chemistry tangible, off the charts steamy, barely contained attraction.
Characterization was also defined by a diversity of personalities with depth and range. While there were the truly bad, mostly there was dimension to the characters, particularly the hero, heroine, and closest friends. The pace was perfect, "unputdownable," not too slow or fast. The world building was clear, vivid, and set me front and center. Just an overall excellent, captivating storyline.
This book was a pleasant surprise, truly excellent read, and one of those stories that when finished I wanted more.
August 25, 2020
After reading the prequel novella (The Tomb: Unexpected) and enjoying it, even though it’s not my usual genre and a little more explicit that I normally read, I felt like I wanted to read more of the series. I felt like I had become attached to the characters and wanted to know more. I love the cover for this book, its really strong. Personally, I think it is Axle from within the book, he certainly fits the imagery that Ella Burns gives you in her descriptions of him. The genre I have seen listed for this book is Dark Dystopian, which I totally agree with, but would add that it also has post-apocalyptic aspects. The Split is the post-apocalyptic event even that happened before everything changed that I think we may learn more about as the series goes on.
The book introduces a character that may be slight in stature but is set to make an enormous difference within the prison. Ana wears a disguise for her own safety, which consists of short cropped hair covered with a cap, and a tightly bound chest to hide her curves. Ana also uses the male name Josh, which we learn later on in the book is the name of someone very close to her. Her luck has lasted quite a while but now it seems to be rapidly running out as she is lined up with other males about to be judged for their crimes. A man paces the line, he is the one who will decide who goes to prison, he can also decide you are to be shot. As Ana is standing in the line, I don’t think she is sure which one she is hoping for. Life and death, Prison or being shot? The man approaches her totally taken in by her posing as a male. He looks her up and down and actually comments “Pretty and young, they are going to love you” and then shouts “Tomb”. So, Ana is relieved she is not going to be shot, one worry over, but how on earth is she going to fare in the Tomb, a prison full of tough hardened criminal men! Ana knows how to fight, and can hold her own on a one to one fight but a prison full of men….and how long can she keep up her disguise with little to no privacy.
We met Ethan and Axle in the prequel and the new boy Josh is briefly mentioned too, but there is so much more to learn about them in this first full-length novel of the series. There’s much more detail about The Tomb in Unexposed as well as the reason that Axle seems to have taken the young boy Josh under his wing which is totally uncharacteristic of him.
Axle is in charge of The Tomb who solves issues by fighting in the pit. The fighters are lowered into the pit and they basically fight to the end. His second in command and I think its also fair to say the only person he truly trusts in the prison is Ethan.
Axle has a tough image to hold onto, he fights to feed the craving he feels. Axle describes it as a bad, dark place and the only thing that relieves this feeling/pain is either fighting in the pit or when he cuts himself. Axle has Ethan meet the new prisoners, he introduces himself and welcomes them to the Tomb. However, their real introduction is when they meet Axle, who usually kills a couple of them just to put the others in their place at the very bottom of the food chain. The newbies soon realise who is in charge and that should they cross Axle their lives are at stake. Axle has the new men, including Josh/Ana line up in front of him, watching them and assessing every single one of them. He immediately recognises the ones with a glint in their eye, which tells him they are violent Then there are those crying that they are here who probably won’t last very long at all. To be honest those that cry irritate Axle the most. He notices Josh/Ana and immediately thinks that the small and weak do not survive long in the Tomb. He finally chooses to speak to a couple of them and rapidly kills them. He then orders Josh/Ana to remove his/her hat, which he/she complies with immediately. He asks his/her name and notices that the voice answering may be small with a tremor but when he looks in Josh/Ana’s eyes as they continue to stare back at him, he notices some bravery. One of the other men shouts and asks if he can have Josh/Ana and Axle see’s that there is more fear in Josh/Ana’s eyes at that thought than when he spoke to him/her. Axle is infuriated that this boy in front of him is more scared of being raped by Rik than he is of being killed by Axle!! Axle kills Rik, and makes Josh/Ana look at him and is finally somewhat satisfied by Josh/Ana’s shocked reaction.
Later Josh/Ana meets Theo an older man who seems to keep himself to himself. Theo reveals his story, how he has been in the Tomb for thirty years. He also warns Josh/Ana that he/she is much too young and small for the Tomb. He tells him/her to watch out. Josh/Ana is permanently on his/her guard, thankful that the real Josh taught her how to stand, walk and act like a male as well as teaching hm/her how to fight. One on one she should be okay in a fight but those in the Tomb don’t fight fairly, or by any rules. It seems its not a matter of if it will be revealed she is female but when. Josh/Ana tries not to think what could happen. It’s horrendous thinking what the men want to do with Josh/Ana as male it would be even worse being revealed as a female in amongst all these men.
Axle is sick of Cole and his group of followers attacking and killing as they see fit. It seems it could only be a matter of time until Cole challenges him in the pit to take over the prison. Already Axle is sick of getting complaints from other groups of prisoners. There’s always fights, scuffles and yes killings, after all the prison is full of hardened criminals and only the toughest survive. Usually Axle allows the “survival of the fittest” to rule who lives and dies however there is something about the young, small new boy Josh/Ana that has caught his attention. Though it’s totally out of character for Axle he steps in to prevent Cole and his gang bullying and hurting Josh/Ana. Even Axle doesn’t understand why he does it, but it is noticed by others too. Axle notices blood on Josh/Ana’s clothing, he orders him/her to remove his/her clothing and naturally Josh/Ana doesn’t want to reveal his/her real identity. Axle is not used to be being refused and he demands him/her to remove her clothes. Axle infuriated at being disobeyed rips the shirt from Josh/Ana. Axle is stunned by what he discovers. He is also shocked when Josh/Ana snipes at him asking for some of his rum if he is just going to stare at her!!
We do see a much softer side to Axle when he is alone with Josh/Ana, there’s an immediate attraction between them both. It’s important that no one else discovers her true identity. In fact, Axle doesn’t even let the only one he trusts in the prison in on their secret. Sadly, there isn’t to be an easy life for the couple. Later when Cole & his men learn the truth about Josh/Ana, Cole is determined to have her as his personal sex toy who once he is done with her, he will pass her on to his men to use and abuse. Cole even challenges Axle to a pit fight, though not on a level, fair footing. Cole makes sure Axle is badly beaten but when it comes to the pit fight Cole is in for a surprise as someone challenges him to a fight he cannot refuse.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing this book were that though it was not my usual genre but honestly enjoyed the change of style & pace. Would like to read more of this series.
Summing up despite there being more explicit scenes than I would normally read, I did honestly enjoy this book. Yes, it is an 18+ adult content book with sexual scenes, awful descriptive violence in places but . . .but I quickly became attached to the characters of Ethan, Axle, Josh/Ana and Theo and definitely am interested in reading more about them.
I think it is a good thing to read outside of your usual “comfort” zone genre occasionally. I did enjoy this book, the way it was written, it made it an addictive, fast reading experience.
The book introduces a character that may be slight in stature but is set to make an enormous difference within the prison. Ana wears a disguise for her own safety, which consists of short cropped hair covered with a cap, and a tightly bound chest to hide her curves. Ana also uses the male name Josh, which we learn later on in the book is the name of someone very close to her. Her luck has lasted quite a while but now it seems to be rapidly running out as she is lined up with other males about to be judged for their crimes. A man paces the line, he is the one who will decide who goes to prison, he can also decide you are to be shot. As Ana is standing in the line, I don’t think she is sure which one she is hoping for. Life and death, Prison or being shot? The man approaches her totally taken in by her posing as a male. He looks her up and down and actually comments “Pretty and young, they are going to love you” and then shouts “Tomb”. So, Ana is relieved she is not going to be shot, one worry over, but how on earth is she going to fare in the Tomb, a prison full of tough hardened criminal men! Ana knows how to fight, and can hold her own on a one to one fight but a prison full of men….and how long can she keep up her disguise with little to no privacy.
We met Ethan and Axle in the prequel and the new boy Josh is briefly mentioned too, but there is so much more to learn about them in this first full-length novel of the series. There’s much more detail about The Tomb in Unexposed as well as the reason that Axle seems to have taken the young boy Josh under his wing which is totally uncharacteristic of him.
Axle is in charge of The Tomb who solves issues by fighting in the pit. The fighters are lowered into the pit and they basically fight to the end. His second in command and I think its also fair to say the only person he truly trusts in the prison is Ethan.
Axle has a tough image to hold onto, he fights to feed the craving he feels. Axle describes it as a bad, dark place and the only thing that relieves this feeling/pain is either fighting in the pit or when he cuts himself. Axle has Ethan meet the new prisoners, he introduces himself and welcomes them to the Tomb. However, their real introduction is when they meet Axle, who usually kills a couple of them just to put the others in their place at the very bottom of the food chain. The newbies soon realise who is in charge and that should they cross Axle their lives are at stake. Axle has the new men, including Josh/Ana line up in front of him, watching them and assessing every single one of them. He immediately recognises the ones with a glint in their eye, which tells him they are violent Then there are those crying that they are here who probably won’t last very long at all. To be honest those that cry irritate Axle the most. He notices Josh/Ana and immediately thinks that the small and weak do not survive long in the Tomb. He finally chooses to speak to a couple of them and rapidly kills them. He then orders Josh/Ana to remove his/her hat, which he/she complies with immediately. He asks his/her name and notices that the voice answering may be small with a tremor but when he looks in Josh/Ana’s eyes as they continue to stare back at him, he notices some bravery. One of the other men shouts and asks if he can have Josh/Ana and Axle see’s that there is more fear in Josh/Ana’s eyes at that thought than when he spoke to him/her. Axle is infuriated that this boy in front of him is more scared of being raped by Rik than he is of being killed by Axle!! Axle kills Rik, and makes Josh/Ana look at him and is finally somewhat satisfied by Josh/Ana’s shocked reaction.
Later Josh/Ana meets Theo an older man who seems to keep himself to himself. Theo reveals his story, how he has been in the Tomb for thirty years. He also warns Josh/Ana that he/she is much too young and small for the Tomb. He tells him/her to watch out. Josh/Ana is permanently on his/her guard, thankful that the real Josh taught her how to stand, walk and act like a male as well as teaching hm/her how to fight. One on one she should be okay in a fight but those in the Tomb don’t fight fairly, or by any rules. It seems its not a matter of if it will be revealed she is female but when. Josh/Ana tries not to think what could happen. It’s horrendous thinking what the men want to do with Josh/Ana as male it would be even worse being revealed as a female in amongst all these men.
Axle is sick of Cole and his group of followers attacking and killing as they see fit. It seems it could only be a matter of time until Cole challenges him in the pit to take over the prison. Already Axle is sick of getting complaints from other groups of prisoners. There’s always fights, scuffles and yes killings, after all the prison is full of hardened criminals and only the toughest survive. Usually Axle allows the “survival of the fittest” to rule who lives and dies however there is something about the young, small new boy Josh/Ana that has caught his attention. Though it’s totally out of character for Axle he steps in to prevent Cole and his gang bullying and hurting Josh/Ana. Even Axle doesn’t understand why he does it, but it is noticed by others too. Axle notices blood on Josh/Ana’s clothing, he orders him/her to remove his/her clothing and naturally Josh/Ana doesn’t want to reveal his/her real identity. Axle is not used to be being refused and he demands him/her to remove her clothes. Axle infuriated at being disobeyed rips the shirt from Josh/Ana. Axle is stunned by what he discovers. He is also shocked when Josh/Ana snipes at him asking for some of his rum if he is just going to stare at her!!
We do see a much softer side to Axle when he is alone with Josh/Ana, there’s an immediate attraction between them both. It’s important that no one else discovers her true identity. In fact, Axle doesn’t even let the only one he trusts in the prison in on their secret. Sadly, there isn’t to be an easy life for the couple. Later when Cole & his men learn the truth about Josh/Ana, Cole is determined to have her as his personal sex toy who once he is done with her, he will pass her on to his men to use and abuse. Cole even challenges Axle to a pit fight, though not on a level, fair footing. Cole makes sure Axle is badly beaten but when it comes to the pit fight Cole is in for a surprise as someone challenges him to a fight he cannot refuse.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing this book were that though it was not my usual genre but honestly enjoyed the change of style & pace. Would like to read more of this series.
Summing up despite there being more explicit scenes than I would normally read, I did honestly enjoy this book. Yes, it is an 18+ adult content book with sexual scenes, awful descriptive violence in places but . . .but I quickly became attached to the characters of Ethan, Axle, Josh/Ana and Theo and definitely am interested in reading more about them.
I think it is a good thing to read outside of your usual “comfort” zone genre occasionally. I did enjoy this book, the way it was written, it made it an addictive, fast reading experience.
September 7, 2020
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The concept is right up my alley. Girl-disguised-as-boy plus all-male-prison? Love it.
I was enthralled by the hero in the first few chapters, since he was deliciously villainous and emotionless. I couldn’t wait to see how he came to find his emotions and connect with the heroine, but shortly after realizing she was a woman, he changed too abruptly into something close to a teddy bear. That was disappointing, though I did enjoy the hero both before and after the change. I just felt like they were two distinct characters.
The heroine is strong and capable of defending herself. I loved her and the uniqueness of her character and background. She is no damsel in distress.
There are dark elements and violence, but sadly, the sex scenes struck me as tame. I was expecting/hoping for some amount of kink, but there was none. (Surely a man who cuts himself to satisfy the demons inside and threatens to punish the heroine could manage a tiny little spank? 😄) The scenes were detailed, just not as explosive as I felt the build-up warranted.
The reason I give three stars instead of four is the insane amount of major punctuation errors. Plurals are written with apostrophes several times, commas are missing where needed and added where they don’t make sense, etc. Usually errors like this don’t affect my reading enjoyment, but in this case, they were so obvious and numerous that the writing level came off as amateurish in an otherwise well-written book.
Though I love the concept of this book, I probably won’t read more by this author.
I was enthralled by the hero in the first few chapters, since he was deliciously villainous and emotionless. I couldn’t wait to see how he came to find his emotions and connect with the heroine, but shortly after realizing she was a woman, he changed too abruptly into something close to a teddy bear. That was disappointing, though I did enjoy the hero both before and after the change. I just felt like they were two distinct characters.
The heroine is strong and capable of defending herself. I loved her and the uniqueness of her character and background. She is no damsel in distress.
There are dark elements and violence, but sadly, the sex scenes struck me as tame. I was expecting/hoping for some amount of kink, but there was none. (Surely a man who cuts himself to satisfy the demons inside and threatens to punish the heroine could manage a tiny little spank? 😄) The scenes were detailed, just not as explosive as I felt the build-up warranted.
The reason I give three stars instead of four is the insane amount of major punctuation errors. Plurals are written with apostrophes several times, commas are missing where needed and added where they don’t make sense, etc. Usually errors like this don’t affect my reading enjoyment, but in this case, they were so obvious and numerous that the writing level came off as amateurish in an otherwise well-written book.
Though I love the concept of this book, I probably won’t read more by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2020
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
I loved the premise for this book so much. Axle and Ana were a cute couple very much a grumpy and sunshine but it was a bit instalovey for my tastes. Axle has been the ruler of the Tomb for 15 years after spending his life inside since he was 6. Ana has been thrown in to the wolves of the prison while concealing the fact that she is female. Axel finds out and takes her under his protection and into his bed. But soon he isn't the only one privy to her secrets, will they survive it? Axle is a violent guy with "demons" he self harms to release when fighting and killing is not enough. I did have a slight issue that this behavior was magically solved when Ana came into the picture because real mental illness isn't something love saves you from. It is something people struggle with while support of Ana would have helped it was a bit too surface level for my tastes. Ana has led a rough life in a world no longer safe for women, going through life concealed as a male she is a bit spunky which I liked.
I think if the book was expanded a bit and a bit more developed it would be great, this is definitely an author I'll be keeping my eye on. It felt a bit rushed because even at the end of the book I knew nothing of why Ana was even in prison or really anything about the dystopian world outside and how it came to be.
I loved the premise for this book so much. Axle and Ana were a cute couple very much a grumpy and sunshine but it was a bit instalovey for my tastes. Axle has been the ruler of the Tomb for 15 years after spending his life inside since he was 6. Ana has been thrown in to the wolves of the prison while concealing the fact that she is female. Axel finds out and takes her under his protection and into his bed. But soon he isn't the only one privy to her secrets, will they survive it? Axle is a violent guy with "demons" he self harms to release when fighting and killing is not enough. I did have a slight issue that this behavior was magically solved when Ana came into the picture because real mental illness isn't something love saves you from. It is something people struggle with while support of Ana would have helped it was a bit too surface level for my tastes. Ana has led a rough life in a world no longer safe for women, going through life concealed as a male she is a bit spunky which I liked.
I think if the book was expanded a bit and a bit more developed it would be great, this is definitely an author I'll be keeping my eye on. It felt a bit rushed because even at the end of the book I knew nothing of why Ana was even in prison or really anything about the dystopian world outside and how it came to be.
Read
October 29, 2020DNF.
I lost interest the moment this became an insta-love. I mean, come on! The setting and concept was the bomb, but then the author had to ruin it by making the male lead become such a pansy in love the moment he discovered the heroine's a woman, and not a young boy. What the hell happened to the brutal, kickass, scary motherfucker who just kills people with remorse?! And the story has questions that are unanswered from the beginning. They're not glaring...just stuff that don't make sense such as...
1. How the hell did the male lead get tattoos in prison when he's been there since 6 years old? Unless I missed the part where a tattooist lives in the compound....then yeah that part didn't make any sense.
2. How the hell did a woman disguised as a boy ended up in prison in the first place? I mean, didn't they vet her or check her or something?
OVERALL nah, this wasn't as exciting as my mind made it out to be.
I lost interest the moment this became an insta-love. I mean, come on! The setting and concept was the bomb, but then the author had to ruin it by making the male lead become such a pansy in love the moment he discovered the heroine's a woman, and not a young boy. What the hell happened to the brutal, kickass, scary motherfucker who just kills people with remorse?! And the story has questions that are unanswered from the beginning. They're not glaring...just stuff that don't make sense such as...
1. How the hell did the male lead get tattoos in prison when he's been there since 6 years old? Unless I missed the part where a tattooist lives in the compound....then yeah that part didn't make any sense.
2. How the hell did a woman disguised as a boy ended up in prison in the first place? I mean, didn't they vet her or check her or something?
OVERALL nah, this wasn't as exciting as my mind made it out to be.
July 27, 2021
Exposed is a dark dystopian suspenseful rollercoaster. From page one you are captivated to read another chapter and another.
This is a fairly quick read that has you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend this book if you like your reads a little mind blowing, steamy, and bloody.
Triggers are definitely present but I think the author does an excellent job of detailing without being mellow dramatic and gross. Written from both points of view The Tomb gives you all the feels!
I loved this novel and I ran to get the next book and then the next.
This is a fairly quick read that has you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend this book if you like your reads a little mind blowing, steamy, and bloody.
Triggers are definitely present but I think the author does an excellent job of detailing without being mellow dramatic and gross. Written from both points of view The Tomb gives you all the feels!
I loved this novel and I ran to get the next book and then the next.
April 30, 2021
The blurb of the book had so much potential but it fell flat. This was supposed to be a dark romance but it read like it was written by a 16 year old trying to be dark.
The world wasn’t not explained enough to keep me interested. The characters were one dimensional. I like the insta-love trope so that didn’t bother me but everything else did.
The world wasn’t not explained enough to keep me interested. The characters were one dimensional. I like the insta-love trope so that didn’t bother me but everything else did.
August 11, 2020
Ella Burns established her career firmly in the horror genre. She is expanding her readership by including horror-grounded erotica in her repertoire. This first book in her series defines her ability not only to tell a story woven into a fascinating dark world that she has created but also to design believable characters that act, think, and love like they belong there as well.
It is DARK and the author does offer a possible trigger warning in her Preface.
Ella introduces her world inside, “The Tomb” in Volume I and it’s not a place for the faint of heart! Bleak and full of unspeakable terrors, it’s where the worst of humanity in her world and some who are innocent are sent to rot.
Survival isn’t easy or guaranteed and to say only the strong thrive in this installment would be an understatement.
The setting of, “The Tomb” a coffin-shaped stone prison, is unique and unrelenting in its darkness and Ms. Burns leaves no stench unimagined and no rough corner unexplored. You’ll discover its dreadful purpose while a cast of unsavory characters add to the sordid-stew leaving you hungry for more in every chapter! She’s created not only a dystopian prison but an arena for mayhem on every one of it’s levels!
The main characters in this book “Ana and Axle” are broken both literally and figuratively. They meet in, “The Tomb” under threatening circumstances and their mutual secrets and desires bind them from the start! The romance between these two dynamic and fierce personalities is brutal and magnetic and you quickly learn that strength isn’t always determined by gender but rather by Ella Burn’s ability to describe their physical beauty and prowess in scorching detail! They are so well matched in their despair and history you won’t be able to choose a favorite to emerge as the “Alpha” between them and might not want to, they are equally charismatic!
Make no mistake: the sex is HOT and Ella Burns uses beautifully edited scenes between these two lovers that allow not only their passions but their respective pasts to weave their souls into what I believe are two of the most interesting and incredible characters in the dark romance realm!
Their power struggles are infused with humor, sadness, desire and despair and above all, it’s her story of humans finding love in the most extreme setting imaginable!
From “The Pit” where grudges are settled with the blood of the inhabitants of,”The Tomb” to motley characters that tug at your heart in spite of unrelenting threats, the world of Ella Burn’s disciplinary nightmare fascinates and disgusts and ignites while pulling you in deeper as the often horrific sometimes gory and gag-inducing incidents that are merely day to day life in, “The Tomb” unfold.
The originality and characters are so well written, I fell into Ella Burn’s world almost immediately and am anxious to see how not only Ana and Axle grow stronger together and as unlikely heroes of a sort but also in the equally interesting secondary relationship between Ethan, Ax’s friend and enforcer and Sammi, a prostitute whose backstory is nothing short of shockingly good! I suspect there’s much more to not only learn about the grim world inside, “The Tomb” but also whether or not all of the lovers can stay in one piece and continue steaming up those crumbling rock walls with their pleasures!
Ella Burns has hinted at possibly three more books in the series.
The reader can also get an exciting prequel to the series, “The Tomb: Unexpected” which features more about Ethan and Sammi by signing up for her newsletter on her website.
I received an ARC of this book to beta-read, my review is unsolicited.
It is DARK and the author does offer a possible trigger warning in her Preface.
Ella introduces her world inside, “The Tomb” in Volume I and it’s not a place for the faint of heart! Bleak and full of unspeakable terrors, it’s where the worst of humanity in her world and some who are innocent are sent to rot.
Survival isn’t easy or guaranteed and to say only the strong thrive in this installment would be an understatement.
The setting of, “The Tomb” a coffin-shaped stone prison, is unique and unrelenting in its darkness and Ms. Burns leaves no stench unimagined and no rough corner unexplored. You’ll discover its dreadful purpose while a cast of unsavory characters add to the sordid-stew leaving you hungry for more in every chapter! She’s created not only a dystopian prison but an arena for mayhem on every one of it’s levels!
The main characters in this book “Ana and Axle” are broken both literally and figuratively. They meet in, “The Tomb” under threatening circumstances and their mutual secrets and desires bind them from the start! The romance between these two dynamic and fierce personalities is brutal and magnetic and you quickly learn that strength isn’t always determined by gender but rather by Ella Burn’s ability to describe their physical beauty and prowess in scorching detail! They are so well matched in their despair and history you won’t be able to choose a favorite to emerge as the “Alpha” between them and might not want to, they are equally charismatic!
Make no mistake: the sex is HOT and Ella Burns uses beautifully edited scenes between these two lovers that allow not only their passions but their respective pasts to weave their souls into what I believe are two of the most interesting and incredible characters in the dark romance realm!
Their power struggles are infused with humor, sadness, desire and despair and above all, it’s her story of humans finding love in the most extreme setting imaginable!
From “The Pit” where grudges are settled with the blood of the inhabitants of,”The Tomb” to motley characters that tug at your heart in spite of unrelenting threats, the world of Ella Burn’s disciplinary nightmare fascinates and disgusts and ignites while pulling you in deeper as the often horrific sometimes gory and gag-inducing incidents that are merely day to day life in, “The Tomb” unfold.
The originality and characters are so well written, I fell into Ella Burn’s world almost immediately and am anxious to see how not only Ana and Axle grow stronger together and as unlikely heroes of a sort but also in the equally interesting secondary relationship between Ethan, Ax’s friend and enforcer and Sammi, a prostitute whose backstory is nothing short of shockingly good! I suspect there’s much more to not only learn about the grim world inside, “The Tomb” but also whether or not all of the lovers can stay in one piece and continue steaming up those crumbling rock walls with their pleasures!
Ella Burns has hinted at possibly three more books in the series.
The reader can also get an exciting prequel to the series, “The Tomb: Unexpected” which features more about Ethan and Sammi by signing up for her newsletter on her website.
I received an ARC of this book to beta-read, my review is unsolicited.
September 6, 2020
The Tomb: Exposed is a very intense and dark read. It is a dystopian prison. The Tomb, prison, is policed by the inmates. Axle is the leader. He and his friend Ethan has been there since they were children. Ethan has been the leader for the last 15 years (since age 16 years old). Ana/Josh has been posing as a boy for years and has been able to survive. When she is caught she is sentenced to The Tomb. She is terrified that her secret will be revealed and she will be gang raped. Axle saved “Josh” from a group that was ready to rape him and claimed him. Later when they are alone Axel finds out that Josh is actually Ana. Ana thought for sure he would throw her back to the other inmates and be gang raped till her short life ends. Axle then decides to keep Ana’s secret and her. So the question becomes what happens to Ana and how far does Axle have to go to keep protecting Ana and her secret? What happens between them? Do they fall in love and find their HEA? You will have to read the story to find out. I won’t spoil the story for you. Let’s just say that this is a very intense book with lots of action and very hot and explosive scenes. There are also a lot of twist and turn and things going sideways every once in a while. The ending is a very surprising one. You will probably be like me loving the end but still a little surprised by the outcome. Ella Burns did a creat job creating this dystopian world and setting up the story in such a way that you are transported their and go through each of the story feeling very close to Ana and Axle. You can relate to them and their situation. This book grabs your attention and doesn’t let go to the very end. This book is not a quick read in that it is a little longer than some which I think is great. I prefer the longer stories that actually lets you get lost in the story being told instead of a quick read (short one) that doesn’t seems quite plausible for the short time that you only get a glimpse or snippet of what is going on. Anyway, I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone who likes dark, intense with hot, steamy scenes. You will not regret reading this story. I can’t wait for the next book in the series call The Tomb: Ensnared.
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.
September 8, 2020
The Tomb is the commonly known name for D1219 Prison. The Tomb is chaos and horror, run by the inmates with no interference or direction by the guards. Authorities are there to keep the inmates inside, and little else.
Ana disguises herself as a male, for protection and to keep herself off the radar of the men around her. She’s lived this way for years, and when sentenced to The Tomb, knows it’s even more important to keep this a well hidden secret, or she’ll be at the not-so-tender mercy of any and all inmates that discover her true gender. And then Axel discovers her secret.
Axle has been an inmate of The Tomb since childhood and has risen to the status of defacto co-leader. This hasn’t come easy and he has left its mark on his personality, coping tools and psyche.
This is a dark dystopian romance story. There’s action, terror, survival, along with steamy scenes between Axel and Ana. There are twists and turns that keep the reader engaged, needing to know how the heck is this going to end? Where else is this story going? Exposed does end, not so much on a cliffhanger, but definitely on an open note.
Book two is releasing soon, and I’m definitely put the release date in my calendar! I don’t feel on the edge, with this ending, but I still need closure. I enjoyed the world and character building and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for an honest review.
Ana disguises herself as a male, for protection and to keep herself off the radar of the men around her. She’s lived this way for years, and when sentenced to The Tomb, knows it’s even more important to keep this a well hidden secret, or she’ll be at the not-so-tender mercy of any and all inmates that discover her true gender. And then Axel discovers her secret.
Axle has been an inmate of The Tomb since childhood and has risen to the status of defacto co-leader. This hasn’t come easy and he has left its mark on his personality, coping tools and psyche.
This is a dark dystopian romance story. There’s action, terror, survival, along with steamy scenes between Axel and Ana. There are twists and turns that keep the reader engaged, needing to know how the heck is this going to end? Where else is this story going? Exposed does end, not so much on a cliffhanger, but definitely on an open note.
Book two is releasing soon, and I’m definitely put the release date in my calendar! I don’t feel on the edge, with this ending, but I still need closure. I enjoyed the world and character building and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for an honest review.
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