The Inquirer

Darker #2

by M.S. Parker

How could I have been so wrong about Bradyn? I trusted him and he betrayed me. As if being back in Savannah could get any worse. But this is my big case and I don’t run from tough situations. I’ll buck up and deal with seeing him at the ranch while I finish my work.

When Nyx Phoenix returns from New York to find a naked woman in Bradyn’s cabin, she realizes their time together meant nothing. Still, she has a job to do and pushes aside any thought of romance. But as new research takes her down an unexpected path, her world is about to change in ways she never imagined.

Bradyn Traylor is disheartened by the turn of events between him and Nyx and shifts his focus on his documentary film. Soon, he discovers that his project and Nyx’s investigation are linked in more ways than he thought. He knows he should stay away from Nyx, but now he can’t…and because of it, his life will never be the same.

Genres: Romance

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 23, 2020

About the author

Step into the seductive and suspenseful world of M. S. Parker, a USA Today Bestselling author where dark romance meets thrilling suspense. If you crave stories that are both steamy and intricate, with characters that are as dangerous as they are desirable, you've found your next obsession.

M. S. Parker specializes in crafting addictive series that push boundaries and keep you guessing until the very last page. Expect to find dangerous mafia bosses and intense, grumpy billionaires clashing with smart, witty young women who, though perhaps out of their element, are quick to adapt and hold their own. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, where passion is a weapon and love is the ultimate prize. Dive into the darkness. You might just find your new favorite escape.

Connect with M. S. Parker on Facebook at http://facebook.com/msparkerauthor

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

The Inquirer is the second book in the Darker series. It is a fast-paced read with great characters, tension, drama and suspense that is palpable.

Being in her hometown brings demons to life ones that she would prefer stayed buried. But Brayden has some pull on her one she is not sure she can stay away from. That is until her visit brings and unwelcome surprise.

If you like dark romance like me then this is for you.

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This read is full of not only suspense but intrigue. Sadly Brayden is learning a lot more about his family than he anticipated and Nyx is reliving a past that needs to be forgotten. I feel bad for the both of them. This read will have you wondering what will come of Brayden & Nyx. Will their relationship withstand everything they endure. The ending has left my heart racing and screaming no!!!! It does end on a cliffhanger. Off to read book three I go.

[Shelley C · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m loving this new series❣️

The inquirer is the next book in the trilogy series Darker and I’m absolutely loving it🤩 It’s not just about Nyx and her past and dabbling in the BDSM lifestyle with Brayden...but it’s also about uncovering secrets that have been kept in the dark for years that are now finally coming to light. But unfortunately, someone is trying to prevent these secrets from surfacing and Nyx and Brayden are caught in the crosshairs😱

I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and I voluntarily leave my honest review and I can’t wait for the conclusion to find out what happens next😳

[Virginia VanSaders · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 2 of The Darker Trilogy

This is the continuing story of Bradyn & Nyx. Picking up from the cliffhanger of Book 1, Nyx knocks on Bradyn's door and a girl comes to the door naked. Ok then. Nyx leaves. There are so many things that are mixed up and all come together with her life, Bradyn's life, her early life and his parent's lives. Only a great author can do that, bring everything together. Nyx being a PI, and Bradyn doing research for his documentary, it all intertwines. It's amazing. Included with that, there is their story with each other. This is an amazing book with another cliffhanger, and a whopper of one at that. Can't wait for the last book of this series.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The relationship between Bradyn and Nyx takes a detour when her visit to surprise him surprises her instead. She is determined to leave him in the past and focus on her investigation but fate has other plans as with every revelation she uncovers it not only amps up the intrigue but the chemistry between them as well.

Every new development in their journey may provide some answers but it leaves many more questions as we wait to see what the future holds for this couple.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series and I do recommend reading them in order. Nyx and Braydn’s story continues with each of them going their own way after she finds a naked woman in his cabin. She is focused on her investigation and he his film. However, both may be related. Fast-paced read with great characters, loads of drama and suspense. Looking forward to the next read! I really liked it.

[Gemma Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

This just keeps getting better…

This is the second book in the Darker Series. Make sure you read ‘The Novice’ before you even think about reading this book. If you don’t, you won’t have a Scooby-Doo what’s going on… there may also be some spoilers in this review if you haven’t read it… so be warned.

Ok… so The Novice ended on that naked cliffhanger that made your blood run cold… well this one leaves you with yet another cliffhanger but this one not only leaves you cold but also with that sick feeling in your stomach.

All I can say is “Poor Nyx.” Just when she starts to get her life back on track the whole world is about to come crashing down on her… again.

Now… I have to be honest and say that it doesn’t take a genius to realise what’s going on and who has framed Nyx - but the main question I think most of us will have is, Why?

So, what we know so far is that Nyx and Bradyn have uncovered the damning truth about Braydn’s family in relation to stealing the families estate from its rightful owners after the Civil War. Now they realise that their goals are the same, they are on a mission to return the rights to the estate and all its accumulated wealth back to those who it was stolen from.

It’s true to say that there is no love lost between father and son, especially when we discover the truth about the naked woman Nyx found in Braydn’s cabin when she returned from New York. His angst towards his father for that reason alone is more than understandable; but with what he has learned about his ancestors and the way his family has covered up their involvement in the racially motivated theft from the Adams family, his respect for his father is at an all time low.

With Nyx’s help, Braydn was not only building a solid case against his family but he was also building and forging a relationship with his ‘Firebird’… that strong, defiant yet damaged beauty that had stolen his heart from the moment he’d seen her. Sure, they’d got some trust issues to get over… but the attraction and bond they have just keeps getting stronger.

Just as you think everything is starting to fall into place however you get hit with the bombshell of all bombshells… I’m not saying too much… because, hey that’s a little unfair but OMG! As soon as she receives that email I’m thinking ‘no… no, don’t trust it!’

I can’t wait to read the next instalment but there’s also a part of me that is thinking, ‘how are they going to get past this?’ And I really really want Nyx and Braydn to survive this latest pitfall, because we all know she’s innocent - but will anyone believe her? Will Braydn believe her? The man she’s finally allowed herself to fall in love with… will he see through the lies? Will he put his faith in what he knows, or what he’s being told? Aaarrrgghh… I don’t know, but I sure hope he discovers the truth quickly or it might be too late to save the love of his life.

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story just keeps diving deeper and deeper into the mysteries and drama. It has so many twists and turns throughout it that it draws in and keeps you glued to it. It has so many details that just pop out at you and doesn't let go. I love Nyx and Bradyn together. They have such amazing chemistry that you can feel it pulling you in with it. Their personalities are felt as you read it and you feel like you are one so close to them. The descriptions throughout the story add such a perfect element to the story that you can easily picture them in your mind. The mystery and the drama that unfolds throughout the storyline makes it dark but with an element of realism. There are so many truths that makes this more than just a romance. It holds so many elements that happen in today's society that are left uncover and in the dark. It brings light to these darker elements and puts a shine on them. The story is stunningly written and the flow of the story is amazing. I can't wait to read the third book in the series. This series is an absolute must read that can't be put down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[lf · Rating 4 out of 5]

What is truth when there are so many secrets and lies

Darker: The Inquirer is the second book in the continuing story of Nyx Phoenix. She is a Private Investigator who is on a case that has taken her back to her hometown of Savannah, Georgia. She had met the very handsome and charming Bradyn on the flight down there from NYC and they have become involved. This book starts where the first book, Darker: The Novice, ended and finds Nyx questioning about Bradyn after she knocked on his door and was greeted in a way that was most unexpected. Nyx is still investigating her case and things are getting more interesting with each new piece of information. There are a lot of twists and turns and a lot that is being half revealed.
This book ends with another cliffhanger so you have to read the third and last book, Darker: The Fugitive. I am enjoying this series which is more "mystery/thriller" than I usually read. But the author has sucked me in with great characters and a story-line that you just can't figure out. Can't wait to read the last book.

I read an advanced copy of this book and am leaving a voluntary and honest review. My opinions are all my own.

[Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part 2 continues where part 1 ends. This section sheds more light on the relationship between Nyx and Bradyn. Where Bradyn wants to see where the relationship is going, Nyx is somewhat reluctant. She has always only had BDSM sex but never an exclusive relationship. She may be overthinking it instead of indulging in her emotions. I think that the character Nyx mainly develops in the story. Even though they are both Dominant, in their sexual encounters they both sometimes assume the sub-role. The sex scenes described are respectful and hot.

Nyx's research seems to have a lot in common with the subject of the film Bradyn wants to make involving his family. Nyx's past comes close when she learns that she is doing her research work for her abusive stepfather's law firm. Is all this a coincidence or is it fate?
The cliffhanger with which the book ends is so exciting, you can't help but read part 3
Highly recommended

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series and the story continues with Braydn and Nyx as she is following the information she is garnering for her private investigation in her hometown of Savannah, Georgia. However, upon her arrival, Nyx is startled to find an unexpected someone answering Braydn’s door which pushes her to make some assumptions…and you know what is inferred when one makes an assumption. At any rate, the more Bradyn works on his documentary and Nyx follows where the trail leads her, things are coming together with regards to Nyx’s life growing up and the lives of Bradyn’s parents. Overall, this is one storyline filled with twists and turns, drama, mystery, steam and so much more. It ends in a cliffhanger but do not let that deter you from picking up this gem and the rest of the series as this is not a standalone. This is one book that will suck you in from the beginning and keep you tightly wrapped throughout. I cannot wait to read the next book! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mrs D · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this book, continues the story. Nyx is beside herself after finding a buck naked woman answering Bradyn’s front door. She assumes because of their argument, all promises are off and he’s moved on. She spends the night getting drunk and making a pass at Isaac which is refused. Bradyn comes upon this, and after more bickering they are an item again. The naked woman? Bradyn’s ex who he caught having sex with his own father. Here, it’s explained who she is but not how she got in to his home, why she was naked and what the hell she wanted. Nyx didn’t ask, and Bradyn didn’t explain.
The secret job is more and more mixed into Bradyn’s family and more worryingly, to the horrific abuse and prison time Nyx suffered. Again it ends with a cliffhanger (l officially hate them), but the third and final book is due soon. Still a M S Parker fan

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Trina Santiago · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coincidence versus Fate

Nyx has most of the information she needs to turn in for her client to be able to move ahead with their end of things. There’s just a piece of this puzzle that’s missing and she hasn’t been able to put her finger on what it is. Too many things have her tied up in knots with this case. Too much is connected to the people she has come to care for..including Braydon.

Braydon is stuck between a rock and a boulder…he wants to do his filming but he needs to finish his research. The research is on his own family and he knows that’s not going to be easily accomplished. His dad isn’t going to just hand over the information he needs and his mother may not know all the answers he’s looking for. His sister will be as bad as his dad. Things are not supposed to be this hard.

A wedding, a break in, vandalism, racial graffiti, a surprise email and a murder..How much crazier can it get?

[Dimaris rossy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is very different from any other book I've read. Even from this same author. The idea behind the story and how everyone connects makes you think there is something fishy happening but you can't figure it out yet. What's the goal behind all the elaborate manipulation? Good thing that Nyx is one hell of a detective. And I'm hoping that Bradyn continues to keep her out of trouble like when they met, because the plot thickens. And when they join forces they are a power team. 

It's really good to read how their feelings keep growing. Same as Nyx's willingness to dip her toes in a relationship which is completely new for her. It's also interesting to read how well Bradyn handles someone who has experienced trauma without being turned off by it. It's super swoon worthy to read how much he cares about her. Trust is being tested and I'm rooting for Bradyn to stay strong.  

[Judy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nyx has given up working at Club Prive (really wish she'd stayed) to open her own PI business.

Her accidental meeting at the airport with Bradyn has led her down more than one path with him. Some good, some she thinks are shady.

She goes to Bradyn's and who answers the door but a naked woman, who says Bradyn is in the shower. Given her history, she should've known he wasn't what she thought he was. That's where this story picks up.

This story has lots of twists and turns. I loved Nyx and Bradyn together, however, I do not like the case she took, at all. I love this author's books and am a huge fan, however, this story (other than Nyx and Bradyn's relationship parts), I was not a fan of. I hope the next book in this series has less of the case she's working on and more of their life and relationship.

[Kathy M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, this book ends with a bang! Sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself. This is a very interesting continuation of the first book. Nyx's investigation is a little confusing to understand. Her case involves a lot of family history that I'm finding hard to follow. Seems a little unbelievable that Bradyn's documentary and his family are linked to Nyx. I'm excited to see how this all plays out in the next book, because this one was full of twists and turns! Bradyn is the perfect guy for Nyx. He's willing to be and do whatever Nyx needs him to do. Very supportive and caring. The kind of guy we all wish we had! Not to mention how erotic they are together. I really enjoyed this book, and will definitely be reading the next one!

[me1966 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I thought the story couldn't get any more enthralling, it did.

Nyx and Bradyn carry on on their rollercoaster relationship. Just as we learn more about each of them, so do they about each other. The way they interchange their roles is fascinating, and I relate very well to Nyx's realisation that your closest family are often the people you choose to be your family. Most importantly, everyone needs a Rose in their lives.

What I found interesting is the cultural differences between life in New York and life in Savannah.

I could ramble on but would prefer not to in case I give something away.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nyx came to Savannah for one reason, her case. She figure in Bradyn. Spending time in New York made what they feel even more real. Due to a misunderstanding things didn't fair well for them. Nyx continued to do her research for her case and found some coincidences that couldn't be ignored but it could also lead to trouble for her and the people around her. Bradyn and Nyx continue to get a forge a relationship that is new to both of them. They seem to be able to be the person that is needed at the right time. Just when they think they have a handle on things. Something horrible doesn't just put her research and Bradyn's documentary in trouble but could forever damage their relationship.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Magali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unpredictable investigation.
Good second part which gives more and more elements on the adolescence of Nyx, the troubled past of the family of Bradyn but also of the family of Nyx, and once again, the story ends on a exciting cliffhanger. The one from the previous book reset the attraction and trust Nyx had built with Bradyn. Their attraction and their special relationship grows, but the coincidences become such that one quickly doubts whether they are coincidences.
This part is complex because everything intertwines, but at the same time, it is fascinating for this same reason, against a backdrop of a legacy of slavery, abuse, manipulation that affects the present, all with a steamy relationship
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book

[Cathy Greco · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is sooooo good. We know Nyx has some issues with abuse and these issues are starting to come out. We learn more about Bradyn and his family. These are all well written characters and they are absolutely fabulous. The writing is great the characters are great the story is great. There is all the back stories the main story the side stories are all so well blended together. The action the intrigue the suspense. The cliffhanger! UGH! I will be waiting for the last installment. Then maybe spin offs? This series is so worth the time.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Loda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought

This was a romantic trilogy instead it is about sexual and mental abuse and racism. No great chemistry between main characters other than their preference for BDSM and both preferring to be the dominant one and even that was lack lustre. Found the story lagged and dragged and found myself skimming through the pages. Also don’t care for children hating their parents so much that they wish to punish them and send them to prison. It is all so dysfunctional. Do any children ever have a normal happy childhood anymore? Needless to say didn’t find anything to hold my interest. Best part of the story was the last sentence.

[Leanne Bryson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 of the Darker series and starts where book 1 left off. Nyx and Braden have a great connection and their chemistry is off the charts. There is a lot Nyx is learning about herself and Braden's family life as well. Te dynamic between these two is compelling and keeps you hoping for the best. The story has a ton a twists, turns, drama, and steam. The pace keeps you interested from start to finish. This book ends with a HUGE cliffhanger, so get ready to jump into the final installment right away.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lou Lou]

Racism , sexism and abuse explained within a love story - and why not?

This second book in the series has been a welcome surprise indeed. The historical description of how institutional slavery in 18 th century USA shapes the institutional racism within the USA today was brilliant.

The Black Lives Mater movement I believe has inspired some people to question and reject the normalisation of prejudice within our selves, our communities and society and artists of all persuasions seem to be consistent in pushing this process forward.

And why not make this issue the focal point of a love trilogy.
Really glad the author did.

[KReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Better and Better

This series just gets better and better! Picking up where book 1 left off Starting in Brayden's voice things are not at all what they seemed. Once that issue is resolved, Brayden and Nyx discover they have more in common than they ever knew. Now working on the same side, one would think that their HEA was in sight...NOT AT ALL!! This book leaves us on a GIANT CLIFF and I loved it! Cannot wait for the conclusion to their story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great continuation of this dark series by M.S. Parker. This book was impossible to put down and just keeps getting more intense. Be ready for more twists, turns, secrets, lies, suspense, drama, trauma and darkness in this second installment of this series. Nyx and Bradyn find out they have more in common than they realized as they pursue his family history. Can’t wait for the third installment. This is a cliffhanger.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

The 2nd book in this series (there is a prequel-so this is the 3rd book, I know it could be confusing) Bradyn and Nyx are coming out of a huge misunderstanding, they smooth out their “differences” and begin a real relationship. Nyx and Bradyn go full steam ahead in their respective investigations and unearth troubling information! This book ends in a major cliffhanger! I hope they can overcome it in the final book!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book is so full of surprises, I had to reread it so I got everything worked out in my head.
Nyx goes back to Savannah to help the people that are involved in the investigation. She didn’t want to get involved with Brayden again but she had a flash back, the only person that help her with the panic attacks is Brayden.
Brayden wants to be with Nyx with all the bells n whistles but Nyx is scared with reason.
I have to read the third book to find out what happens !!
I received a free copy of this book for an voluntary and honest review.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nyx though she could trust Bradyn, but seeing a naked woman in his cabin, seems to have broken her image of how honest Bradyn was. Can Bradyn win her back? Or will the relationship they were to be working towards go up in smoke? Nyx and Bradyn are intriguing with their different BDSM relationship. I loved this gripping romance, it has angst, danger and left me gasping for more (I need the next book to find out what happens next).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book it was great, the story was well written and the characters are interesting. The story of Nyx and Bradyn the continuation from the first book. Nyx is not happy when she comes back and catches Bradyn in bed with a female. Bradyn wants to keep his distance from Nyx but they are always bumping into each other. Nyx is accused of murder. Now we have to wait for the next book as this book ended with a cliffhanger again.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elizabeth McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nyx and Bradyn are trying to figure out their interesting and exciting relationship as they each work through their prospective projects. Hers being her investigation and his being an expose’ on the influential families of Savannah tying into his own family tree. As they both begin to gather more evidence and begin to get closer they encounter a bit of danger and Nyx has more flashbacks from her childhood. This book leaves us at a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to read the next installment!! Good read

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.