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Devil's Playground #2
Maleficium: Duo
Tragic and Twisted fall apart...
Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
92 people are currently reading
1571 people want to read
About the author
Natalie Bennett
111 books2,666 followersLover of all things pǝʇsıʍʇ & unusual.
I write unconventional 'romance' with strong elements of horror.
Find all my links here!
linktr.ee/AuthornatB
I write unconventional 'romance' with strong elements of horror.
Find all my links here!
linktr.ee/AuthornatB
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
June 29, 2021
“Think Escape Room, meets Saw, meets Battle Royale. That’s what we’re dealing with.”
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💋💋💋💋
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📙📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 👨🏻👱🏻♀🧔🏻👩🏻👩🏼🦰
The heroine: Liliana (a.k.a. Lana) - she was the de facto leader of her group of friends and at the end of the last book they had gone through a gauntlet of sorts including Riddles, Murders and Mayhem, with crazy people in masks picking them off one by one.
The Hero(es): Ciaran - the leader of his group of friends and it seems that they are somehow running the gauntlet that Lana and her friends are in this time. They are behind the scenes and moving the pieces around.
The Story: In Periculum the guys were with the girls going through the crazy town and solving the riddles, we even thought one of the guys, Charon had been murdered. However, at the very end, the guys separated from the girls and it was made obvious that not only were the girls families involved in putting them through that, but the 4 guys were also involved. Not only that, but they weren’t done yet.
Their families seemed proud that Lana, Mel and Gracelyn (and Selena, who was with them) made it through the first part of their initiation. But before they can even start to figure out what they are being initiated into, they are on to part two. Though this time they don’t have the guys along with them and they are not happy about the betrayal.
In the first book, Lana had seemed to recognize Ciaran from somewhere, but couldn’t remember from where. In this book, she is having the same issues with a lot of things she comes across. It seems someone has somehow selectively erased some of her memories. (It does say that it is 2029 so maybe that is possible).
Like in the first, in this new phase of the initiation, only the strong survive. Lana, as we know from book one is a regular girl in some respects, like the fact that she doesn’t want to fall in line with her wealthy family who want her to only think of improving their status and reputation. She would rather do her own thing. Also she is a sociopath in some ways and feels no empathy for those around her that die in these trials they are going through.
Her friends are also in this one and some new faces. A guy named Dion finds Lana and is on the trek with her and is looking for his girlfriend who was with him when his shuttle bus crashed (like what happened to Lana and friends in the first book).
There were still some steamy moments between Lana and Ciaran even though she doesn’t think she can trust him, and there was definitely a lot of murder and mayhem. It seems every time they come across people that can answer any questions as to what is going on and the purpose for everything, they get the same answer, that they will find out soon. I hope the next book comes out quick because I also am dying to know.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💋💋💋💋
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📙📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 👨🏻👱🏻♀🧔🏻👩🏻👩🏼🦰
The heroine: Liliana (a.k.a. Lana) - she was the de facto leader of her group of friends and at the end of the last book they had gone through a gauntlet of sorts including Riddles, Murders and Mayhem, with crazy people in masks picking them off one by one.
The Hero(es): Ciaran - the leader of his group of friends and it seems that they are somehow running the gauntlet that Lana and her friends are in this time. They are behind the scenes and moving the pieces around.
The Story: In Periculum the guys were with the girls going through the crazy town and solving the riddles, we even thought one of the guys, Charon had been murdered. However, at the very end, the guys separated from the girls and it was made obvious that not only were the girls families involved in putting them through that, but the 4 guys were also involved. Not only that, but they weren’t done yet.
Their families seemed proud that Lana, Mel and Gracelyn (and Selena, who was with them) made it through the first part of their initiation. But before they can even start to figure out what they are being initiated into, they are on to part two. Though this time they don’t have the guys along with them and they are not happy about the betrayal.
“The question of why was still looming over my shoulder. Abuelo had mentioned this was an initiation. What the f*ck were we being initiated into? Purgatory? I chose to keep my rambling inner thoughts to myself for now. There was no point in adding more unknown variables to this crappy equation.”
In the first book, Lana had seemed to recognize Ciaran from somewhere, but couldn’t remember from where. In this book, she is having the same issues with a lot of things she comes across. It seems someone has somehow selectively erased some of her memories. (It does say that it is 2029 so maybe that is possible).
Like in the first, in this new phase of the initiation, only the strong survive. Lana, as we know from book one is a regular girl in some respects, like the fact that she doesn’t want to fall in line with her wealthy family who want her to only think of improving their status and reputation. She would rather do her own thing. Also she is a sociopath in some ways and feels no empathy for those around her that die in these trials they are going through.
Her friends are also in this one and some new faces. A guy named Dion finds Lana and is on the trek with her and is looking for his girlfriend who was with him when his shuttle bus crashed (like what happened to Lana and friends in the first book).
There were still some steamy moments between Lana and Ciaran even though she doesn’t think she can trust him, and there was definitely a lot of murder and mayhem. It seems every time they come across people that can answer any questions as to what is going on and the purpose for everything, they get the same answer, that they will find out soon. I hope the next book comes out quick because I also am dying to know.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
June 16, 2021
Maleficium is my most anticipated book of the year and well worth the wait. Thank you to the author for her taking her time and effort in this book. It shows. Seriously, why can’t we give more than five stars?
Book two starts where book one ends. This review will be vague as they’re many spoilers to give. I want it to be spoiler-free. I felt like while reading this that it was a never-ending escape room after another escape room. A total mind fuck with horror and gore. With a survival fight to live. It’s dark and intense. So right up my alley. Can I say I picture the Jester as a female Pennywise? Hello, Horror producers make this into a movie.
Liliana and Ciaran's connection is undeniable even though she doesn't remember him. But that didn't stop him from being protective of her and prove they are meant to be.
Some questions are answered, and now I am left with more. The memory loss has me boggled as to why. I was sad it had to end and now have to patiently wait for the next book, as I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. If you up for dark, twisted, intense, Mind trickery, then this series is for you.
March 10, 2022
This kicks starts off where the previous book left off.
Initially this was going to be another 5 star read after the high of reading the first book, this was going so well until the end chapter which you can't even really call a cliffy because it ended so abruptly making me think there were pages missing, which was a shame because I was really loving this, then we're given a bonus chapter which yet again didn't really make much sense making it feel too rushed and stilted and again we're all left hanging wondering what the ever loving f#ck is going on because they are still getting chased, groups still getting killed and still Ciaran is kind of helping her even though she has no recollection of him in her past.
Still only a few chosen will survive, others will be obliterated by clowns carrying their choice of weapon.
Yet again it's high on adrenaline, pulse pumping grittiness which has me anticipating the next books!! Even though with the two niggles above this is such a good series which I want to see till the end.
April 29, 2021
I’m sick of this author changing the damn release date.. like wtf she changed it like 50 times
June 8, 2021
The game continues...
So, in this new addition, which I actually thought would conclude the main couple's story, the plot thickens... and became more and more elaborate. I just hope, the story would pay off in the end because at this rate, it's building up to something unimaginable.
With that said, as much as I love how intense and scary some of these trials they have to go though to get to the next phase, I was also disappointed in the lack of romance or mystery behind this secret society.
So, in this new addition, which I actually thought would conclude the main couple's story, the plot thickens... and became more and more elaborate. I just hope, the story would pay off in the end because at this rate, it's building up to something unimaginable.
With that said, as much as I love how intense and scary some of these trials they have to go though to get to the next phase, I was also disappointed in the lack of romance or mystery behind this secret society.
October 21, 2021
Okay so I thought this would be the last book (it says that book 1&2 are immersed and the rest are individual standalones), and when I closed in on the last few pages I was still like wtf is going on? Since we never got any explanation of anything and based on other reviews, it seems like there will be a third one at least. I don't know, haha.
While I liked the first one, this one was dragging out, 200 pages felt like ten times more. Ciaran is still talking about how he will ruin Lana and how they belong together and blabla, but for now he's more a talker than a shower.
Naah.
While I liked the first one, this one was dragging out, 200 pages felt like ten times more. Ciaran is still talking about how he will ruin Lana and how they belong together and blabla, but for now he's more a talker than a shower.
Naah.
June 16, 2021
It took awhile for this book to come out amd its finally here!!! and I honestly thought we get more of Cir and Lil and their relationship buy it was more group ans trying to stay alive and figure out wtf is going on. Which I loved and hates because I wanted more of those 2 and I wanted him to give her more info on "how does he know her " and that's what has me meh. I needed more from the two..
I do love the girl power in this these girls know how to stay alive and keep those wits.. as for the guys they are still have secrets and are helping the girls stay sorta alive lol. They have few strings being pulled behind this game.. Hopefully we get more answers and STEAM in the next book.. maybe more focuse on Cir and Lil..
Angst, no ow/om drama, no cheating, Drama, secondary charas, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🔥
Slow-burnish
Push/pull
Murder
Violence
No condom
HFN
I do love the girl power in this these girls know how to stay alive and keep those wits.. as for the guys they are still have secrets and are helping the girls stay sorta alive lol. They have few strings being pulled behind this game.. Hopefully we get more answers and STEAM in the next book.. maybe more focuse on Cir and Lil..
Angst, no ow/om drama, no cheating, Drama, secondary charas, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-maybe
Cover-⭐⭐⭐
Heat level-🔥
Slow-burnish
Push/pull
Murder
Violence
No condom
HFN
July 8, 2021
"Servatis a Maleficium, something wicked this way comes. Welcome to the Devil’s Playground…"
To me, a Natalie Bennett's book is first and foremost about the atmosphere. Maleficium, second installment in The Devil's Playground series is no different and in that regard, it completely gripped me. I once again found myself sucked into a gruesome, ultra-violent story.
"Play to kill, then play to win. Sacrifice when necessary."
The last chapter of Periculum flowed right away into the new opus, thrilling, dark, mysterious. Not knowing what was happening, and why, all the while trying to understand who to trust was completely exhilarating.
"Death to the weak?”“And wealth to the strong!”
There is not much more to say without spoiling the plot, and, believe me, it's a twisted one. Although the romance, attraction, danger is indeniable, it's not center stage in this series. It's about Lana and Ciaran but so much more than that. I loved the dark side the characters, their all of them, the evolution, or rather revelation of their personalities was incredible. They are merciless, and completely insane. Think... kill or be killed. Big brother. Cube. And a tad or The Game. With lots of gore. That's it. The author built a sick world and I loved it. Is it realistic? No idea, I didn’t even took the time to think about it, it simply works.
"You can’t hide a beautifully demented soul from someone born to raise hell."
To me, a Natalie Bennett's book is first and foremost about the atmosphere. Maleficium, second installment in The Devil's Playground series is no different and in that regard, it completely gripped me. I once again found myself sucked into a gruesome, ultra-violent story.
"Play to kill, then play to win. Sacrifice when necessary."
The last chapter of Periculum flowed right away into the new opus, thrilling, dark, mysterious. Not knowing what was happening, and why, all the while trying to understand who to trust was completely exhilarating.
"Death to the weak?”“And wealth to the strong!”
There is not much more to say without spoiling the plot, and, believe me, it's a twisted one. Although the romance, attraction, danger is indeniable, it's not center stage in this series. It's about Lana and Ciaran but so much more than that. I loved the dark side the characters, their all of them, the evolution, or rather revelation of their personalities was incredible. They are merciless, and completely insane. Think... kill or be killed. Big brother. Cube. And a tad or The Game. With lots of gore. That's it. The author built a sick world and I loved it. Is it realistic? No idea, I didn’t even took the time to think about it, it simply works.
"You can’t hide a beautifully demented soul from someone born to raise hell."
August 29, 2021
Okay i gave it a try, after all this time of waiting, i read it, i had it downloaded since it came out on my kindle. But i was just fed up, and knowing there was going the be a third book, and it will probably don't come out for the next 2 years i wasnt going the read it until the serie was complete.
A few things, i loved the first book, like really love. But for the 2nd book i had to wait a year or so, and the author was rude, deleting comments, and lied. I am a fan, but i just draw the line at being rude. Nobody is too good for kindness. But still she is a great writer, and writes some amazing books.
But this book wasnt a 5 star review kind of book, because it was a lighter version of the first book with no romance, and the book wasnt as brutal as the first one. It was some sort of repeat but then the zero dark version of the first one.
All this waiting for just a sort of replica?
But still the suspense was there, i want to know what happens in book 3. And i really want to know how they know eachother and if they are going to kill their families, ( i hope so).
Hopefully the books are getting darker again and more badass.
A few things, i loved the first book, like really love. But for the 2nd book i had to wait a year or so, and the author was rude, deleting comments, and lied. I am a fan, but i just draw the line at being rude. Nobody is too good for kindness. But still she is a great writer, and writes some amazing books.
But this book wasnt a 5 star review kind of book, because it was a lighter version of the first book with no romance, and the book wasnt as brutal as the first one. It was some sort of repeat but then the zero dark version of the first one.
All this waiting for just a sort of replica?
But still the suspense was there, i want to know what happens in book 3. And i really want to know how they know eachother and if they are going to kill their families, ( i hope so).
Hopefully the books are getting darker again and more badass.
May 1, 2021
Flaky author. Always has an excuse for why her books don't release on time. Most times her books release 12-15 months AFTER her original release date. She's been this way for over 3 years now.
June 16, 2021
"Think Escape Room, meets Saw, meets Battle Royale. That’s what we’re dealing with."
Well ain’t that the truth.
Maleficium begins where Periculum left off. There was plenty of bloody gore to keep me intrigued and despite the fact that the interactions between Lana and Ciaran was bare minimum, the author has this magical ability to get you fully immersed in the main character's bloody adventure and unlocking the mystery as to why she and her sisters are targeted.
June 7, 2021
"We shouldn't have fallen together when we could only ever fall apart."
Though I know what to expect when NB is involved I'm again surprised with this book like the first time.
This is mostly Liliana's story and her point of view but Ciaran is lurking in the shadows, watching over her, helping her find the right path to him, to stay alive, and to join him in this game.... "solve, kill, and fuck your way to the win."
The side characters were amazing. This whole Devil's Playground theme is simply stunning and I don't know where she comes up with these ideas, but please don't stop Natalie.
If you decide to read this - warning! - this is not for the faint of heart; it's dark and twisted in the best possible way so be careful - but if you decide to read this - and I'm hoping you will - you won't regret it.
Periculum - book 1 - you need to read this first.
Where book1 ends, book2 - Maleficium continues.
And still, there's no end...book 3 will give us more answers.
"Play to kill, then play to win.
Sacrifice when necessary.
If the mood strikes, which it often did, fuck or get fucked before death."
Though I know what to expect when NB is involved I'm again surprised with this book like the first time.
This is mostly Liliana's story and her point of view but Ciaran is lurking in the shadows, watching over her, helping her find the right path to him, to stay alive, and to join him in this game.... "solve, kill, and fuck your way to the win."
The side characters were amazing. This whole Devil's Playground theme is simply stunning and I don't know where she comes up with these ideas, but please don't stop Natalie.
If you decide to read this - warning! - this is not for the faint of heart; it's dark and twisted in the best possible way so be careful - but if you decide to read this - and I'm hoping you will - you won't regret it.
Periculum - book 1 - you need to read this first.
Where book1 ends, book2 - Maleficium continues.
And still, there's no end...book 3 will give us more answers.
"Play to kill, then play to win.
Sacrifice when necessary.
If the mood strikes, which it often did, fuck or get fucked before death."
October 21, 2021
Ah, fuck me. This ends on a cliffhanger. It was interesting and all but the ridiculous amount of grammatical errors turned me off.
May 6, 2021
So done with the lack of communication from this author. Sh*t happens but to just ignore the fact she has delayed a book more times than I can count and then to ignore and delete any comment that asks for an update is just ridiculous.
July 7, 2021
.
"I killed to keep breathing— to keep my friends safe. I would keep killing if that’s what was necessary to continue doing so and making sure we didn’t die in this hellish prison of insanity. "
We are back with round two. This time, there's more twist and more turns that I didn't see coming! Things and key players are not what they seem. Survival has become more challenging for Lana and the girls. Also, more secrets are uncovered I really hope that we figure out what in the actual hell is going on!
"The two of us together were a nightmare in the making. What could be more beautiful than a bond formed from blood and chaos, blessed by the ones that worshipped everything below?"
Fantastic read! I was literally on the edge of my seat. This game of cat and mouse is seriously what I love. I also really tried to hate Cairon, I really did, but I failed miserably. They are seriously meant for each other. I really hope we find out their connection. I'm hooked!!!
I received an ARC and voluntarily gave my honest opinion and review
June 5, 2021
“ Think Escape Room, meets Saw, meets Battle Royale. That’s what we’re dealing with.”
💀
The games continue at Devils Playground in book 2. If you thought the games were done, you are surely mistaken.
“Psycho vs psycho let your true self emerge. Servatis a Maleficium, something wicked this way comes.”
This book is a complete trip because we don’t know what’s going on just as the main characters who absolutely no idea what’s going on either because their minds were messed with and they don’t exactly know everything about their past and their relationships with other characters in the book. So we are in the dark just as the characters are in the dark with what’s going on. What we do find out is they are basically in a game that they are fighting for their lives. It’s on a live broadcast. And people are betting on their lives to see who wins this game of terror.
Natalie Bennett has an insane twisted gory imagination. And I absolutely love it. There were moments where I had to squeeze my stomach a little bit to keep myself from feeling like I wanted to vomit. And I loved that she tortures readers like this. We follow through the eyes of Liliana still. With a little bit of Ciaran. He still entirely is mysterious. We know that he’s known Liliana prior to her getting her memories erased. To what extent? It’s still a complete mystery. What I can tell you is this entire book was dark and twisted and gory and bloody and absolutely freaking amazing. I feel like book one was only a taste of what this series is going to give us.
We’re introduced to new characters. And we also don’t see other characters. Natalie Bennett gives no fucks on wiping characters out of her storyline. Whether it’s through mystery or death- she does not give a fuck.
“Devils Playground was founded on three very simple ideologies.
Play to kill, then play to win.
Sacrifice when necessary.
if the mood strikes, which it often dead, fuck or get fucked before death. “
December 16, 2021
i apologize in advance for the rant that is about to follow, but i simply had to let it out. short story: don't buy this book!!!!!
___
i'm so fucking annoyed and disappointed. i thought this book would finally answer the questions i had while reading the first one. getting answers was the O N L Y reason i read it. but did i get ANY answers? no. no, i did not. this isn't the way it's supposed to work when book 1 & 2 belong together and every book following them is a stand-alone. that means you get your answers in the second book at the latest.
i feel personally betrayed to have read this shit for absolutely nothing. it isn't well written, it isn't scary in the slightest (& i scare easily) nor is it good in any other way. it has absolutely nothing going for it and if i could give zero stars i would. the only reason why one could assume this book is worth reading is to get answers, but you won't. you'll only have more questions.
i assume that it's a tactic to get people to buy the third book, but then you can't sell it as a duology with following stand-alones??? that's just lying to your customer because you know you won't get anyone to buy these books any other way.
___
i'm so fucking annoyed and disappointed. i thought this book would finally answer the questions i had while reading the first one. getting answers was the O N L Y reason i read it. but did i get ANY answers? no. no, i did not. this isn't the way it's supposed to work when book 1 & 2 belong together and every book following them is a stand-alone. that means you get your answers in the second book at the latest.
i feel personally betrayed to have read this shit for absolutely nothing. it isn't well written, it isn't scary in the slightest (& i scare easily) nor is it good in any other way. it has absolutely nothing going for it and if i could give zero stars i would. the only reason why one could assume this book is worth reading is to get answers, but you won't. you'll only have more questions.
i assume that it's a tactic to get people to buy the third book, but then you can't sell it as a duology with following stand-alones??? that's just lying to your customer because you know you won't get anyone to buy these books any other way.
September 6, 2023
was having fun in the first book but was expecting answers in the second but it was just repetitive and more confusing and i got bored
June 18, 2021
I was waiting on this book for ages and ate it up quickly once it hit my kindle this week.
"Think Escape Room meets Saw meets Battle Royale. That's what we're dealing with." This world, The Devils Playground, that Natalie has created is crazy as and I fckn love it.
It picks up where Periculum left off and we're thrown straight back into the thick of it. There are more riddles and rhymes to be solved and all the murder, mayhem and fuckery from book 1 is still in full effect.
Liliana (lana) is still trying to piece things together from her past as to the connection to Cairan. How are they intertwined? She feels it stronger now and she is getting fed crumbs to piece it all together but is getting no answers. Just more questions damn it!
"Puppet, your soul's just like mine. Stained with filth, bloodthirsty. Lacking a typical moral sensor."
One thing I did miss in this book was more scenes with Lana and Cairan. It was missing some steam!
With more questions to be answered and more riddles to be deciphered, bring on the next book.
"Think Escape Room meets Saw meets Battle Royale. That's what we're dealing with." This world, The Devils Playground, that Natalie has created is crazy as and I fckn love it.
It picks up where Periculum left off and we're thrown straight back into the thick of it. There are more riddles and rhymes to be solved and all the murder, mayhem and fuckery from book 1 is still in full effect.
Liliana (lana) is still trying to piece things together from her past as to the connection to Cairan. How are they intertwined? She feels it stronger now and she is getting fed crumbs to piece it all together but is getting no answers. Just more questions damn it!
"Puppet, your soul's just like mine. Stained with filth, bloodthirsty. Lacking a typical moral sensor."
One thing I did miss in this book was more scenes with Lana and Cairan. It was missing some steam!
With more questions to be answered and more riddles to be deciphered, bring on the next book.
June 9, 2021
6/5 ⭐️ 1/5 🔥 ⚠️TW⚠️
This series is so fucking wild! I’m obsessed with it. I haven’t had this much fun reading a book in a long time! This book heavily focuses on the plot and backstory to give us some context to everything that happened in the first book. Not quite as fast paced but still had so much going on!
Just when you think things couldn’t get more insane… it’s turned up a notch. And I have no doubt that it’s barely even started. The third book is going to be even crazier. This is The Purge meets Saw! I really thought the MMCs wouldn’t have any redemption but I somehow ended up loving them even more. The girls were just badass. The spice was minimal which I’m not even mad about!
I almost want to be mad about the release date being pushed back so many times but the fact that it’s 6/16… the irony is not lost on me 🖤
This series is so fucking wild! I’m obsessed with it. I haven’t had this much fun reading a book in a long time! This book heavily focuses on the plot and backstory to give us some context to everything that happened in the first book. Not quite as fast paced but still had so much going on!
Just when you think things couldn’t get more insane… it’s turned up a notch. And I have no doubt that it’s barely even started. The third book is going to be even crazier. This is The Purge meets Saw! I really thought the MMCs wouldn’t have any redemption but I somehow ended up loving them even more. The girls were just badass. The spice was minimal which I’m not even mad about!
I almost want to be mad about the release date being pushed back so many times but the fact that it’s 6/16… the irony is not lost on me 🖤
June 16, 2021
Maleficium by Natalie Bennett
I Give this Book a 4-4.5-5/5 Star Rating, Listing as a High 4 ☺️
HEA(?): Not Yet :)
Cliffhanger(?): Yes :)
Relationship Type: MF
Dark(?): 3.5-4/5
Heat: Not a Lot, so 2.5/5 as of right now :) it’s not a main focus, Survival is.
Romance: I can’t rate this correctly Lol, i feel like if I rate this one, I might give too much away?
Pacing: Really Good Pacing, Mid Pace.
Drama: 5/5
Suspense: 5/5
NO spoilers, except I’ll say this book gave me thrills and chills, and makes me greedy for more! I’m ready for the next book!
Natalie is definitely in her groove with this series, it flows really well and had me to where I could not put this book down, I was just that enraptured with the book.
I wanted to know what was gonna happen next every-single-time, that I literally could NOT put the book down 😆
This book is worth the wait, at least for me it is ☺️
I Give this Book a 4-4.5-5/5 Star Rating, Listing as a High 4 ☺️
HEA(?): Not Yet :)
Cliffhanger(?): Yes :)
Relationship Type: MF
Dark(?): 3.5-4/5
Heat: Not a Lot, so 2.5/5 as of right now :) it’s not a main focus, Survival is.
Romance: I can’t rate this correctly Lol, i feel like if I rate this one, I might give too much away?
Pacing: Really Good Pacing, Mid Pace.
Drama: 5/5
Suspense: 5/5
NO spoilers, except I’ll say this book gave me thrills and chills, and makes me greedy for more! I’m ready for the next book!
Natalie is definitely in her groove with this series, it flows really well and had me to where I could not put this book down, I was just that enraptured with the book.
I wanted to know what was gonna happen next every-single-time, that I literally could NOT put the book down 😆
This book is worth the wait, at least for me it is ☺️
July 14, 2021
This is book two in the Devils Playground. Periculum must be read before you read this one.
Don’t read any reviews as it could spoil the story if you’ve not read both books.
Yet again this author has messed with my head and I loved every minute of it. When I thought it was going one way she switched and it went another way. What a rollercoaster of a story!!
It was so worth waiting for. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
Don’t read any reviews as it could spoil the story if you’ve not read both books.
Yet again this author has messed with my head and I loved every minute of it. When I thought it was going one way she switched and it went another way. What a rollercoaster of a story!!
It was so worth waiting for. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
May 1, 2022
I DIDN'T THINK I WAS GOING TO LOVE THIS AS MUCH AS BOOK ONE BUT I LOVED IT SO MUCH MORE. Since this is Book two and is connected so closely to book one, instead of reviewing it, I am going to share quotes from it that perfectly sum up the books...
Enjoy 🖤
1. "If your man wasn't willing to burn down a city to save you, maybe it was time to get a new one".
2. "Devils playground was founded on three very simple ideologies;
1. Play to kill, then play to win.
2. Sacrifice when necessary.
3. I'd the mood strikes, which it often did, fuck or get fucked before death".
3. "The point is to stay alive and play the game. Solve, kill, and fuck your way to the win. Think escape room meets saw meets battle royal. That's what we're dealing with".
DOESN'T THE DEVILS PLAYGROUND SOUND LIKE SUCH A FUN TIME!!! No? Oh ok maybe I'm just alittle sadistic then, jk🤣.. these books are short but sooo worth the reads.
Enjoy 🖤
1. "If your man wasn't willing to burn down a city to save you, maybe it was time to get a new one".
2. "Devils playground was founded on three very simple ideologies;
1. Play to kill, then play to win.
2. Sacrifice when necessary.
3. I'd the mood strikes, which it often did, fuck or get fucked before death".
3. "The point is to stay alive and play the game. Solve, kill, and fuck your way to the win. Think escape room meets saw meets battle royal. That's what we're dealing with".
DOESN'T THE DEVILS PLAYGROUND SOUND LIKE SUCH A FUN TIME!!! No? Oh ok maybe I'm just alittle sadistic then, jk🤣.. these books are short but sooo worth the reads.
September 9, 2021
“ Think Escape Room, meets Saw, meets Battle Royale. That’s what we’re dealing with.”
💀
The games continue at Devils Playground in book 2. If you thought the games were done, you are surely mistaken.
“Psycho vs psycho let your true self emerge. Servatis a Maleficium, something wicked this way comes.”
This book is a complete trip because we don’t know what’s going on just as the main characters who absolutely no idea what’s going on either because their minds were messed with and they don’t exactly know everything about their past and their relationships with other characters in the book. So we are in the dark just as the characters are in the dark with what’s going on. What we do find out is they are basically in a game that they are fighting for their lives. It’s on a live broadcast. And people are betting on their lives to see who wins this game of terror.
Natalie Bennett has an insane twisted gory imagination. And I absolutely love it. There were moments where I had to squeeze my stomach a little bit to keep myself from feeling like I wanted to vomit. And I loved that she tortures readers like this. We follow through the eyes of Liliana still. With a little bit of Ciaran. He still entirely is mysterious. We know that he’s known Liliana prior to her getting her memories erased. To what extent? It’s still a complete mystery. What I can tell you is this entire book was dark and twisted and gory and bloody and absolutely freaking amazing. I feel like book one was only a taste of what this series is going to give us.
We’re introduced to new characters. And we also don’t see other characters. Natalie Bennett gives no fucks on wiping characters out of her storyline. Whether it’s through mystery or death- she does not give a fuck.
“Devils Playground was founded on three very simple ideologies.
Play to kill, then play to win.
Sacrifice when necessary.
if the mood strikes, which it often dead, fuck or get fucked before death. “
💀
The games continue at Devils Playground in book 2. If you thought the games were done, you are surely mistaken.
“Psycho vs psycho let your true self emerge. Servatis a Maleficium, something wicked this way comes.”
This book is a complete trip because we don’t know what’s going on just as the main characters who absolutely no idea what’s going on either because their minds were messed with and they don’t exactly know everything about their past and their relationships with other characters in the book. So we are in the dark just as the characters are in the dark with what’s going on. What we do find out is they are basically in a game that they are fighting for their lives. It’s on a live broadcast. And people are betting on their lives to see who wins this game of terror.
Natalie Bennett has an insane twisted gory imagination. And I absolutely love it. There were moments where I had to squeeze my stomach a little bit to keep myself from feeling like I wanted to vomit. And I loved that she tortures readers like this. We follow through the eyes of Liliana still. With a little bit of Ciaran. He still entirely is mysterious. We know that he’s known Liliana prior to her getting her memories erased. To what extent? It’s still a complete mystery. What I can tell you is this entire book was dark and twisted and gory and bloody and absolutely freaking amazing. I feel like book one was only a taste of what this series is going to give us.
We’re introduced to new characters. And we also don’t see other characters. Natalie Bennett gives no fucks on wiping characters out of her storyline. Whether it’s through mystery or death- she does not give a fuck.
“Devils Playground was founded on three very simple ideologies.
Play to kill, then play to win.
Sacrifice when necessary.
if the mood strikes, which it often dead, fuck or get fucked before death. “
June 21, 2021
Alright.
Granted I was MAJORLY irritated by
• the almost year long wait for this book to release
• the lack of communication with readers as to why this was happening
• the deleting of comments questioning what was happening and begging for communication, both by the author and her PA
• the cycle of having to preorder this book what.. atleast 5 different times? only for the date to change 2x each time, then being canceled
• excuses, excuses, excuses..
I am hesitant to say that this book was worth the wait, because even if I think it, I feel like it would be dismissive to everything I listed above, and I don't want that to be the case. I really hope this author does better going forward. Her readers love her, and sure some didn't mind the absolute shit show that ensued these last few months of waiting, but some absolutely did.
Anyways, I will say that same as with Periculum, I absolutely loved this book. This series is so unique and intriguing and the detail that went into it was incredible. Anyone who rates this book any less than 5 stars for the sake of being salty and petty, shame on you.
Natalie, if you are reading this - please know that we absolutely love you and the worlds you create and share with us - and please don't make us wait too long for Daemonium.
Granted I was MAJORLY irritated by
• the almost year long wait for this book to release
• the lack of communication with readers as to why this was happening
• the deleting of comments questioning what was happening and begging for communication, both by the author and her PA
• the cycle of having to preorder this book what.. atleast 5 different times? only for the date to change 2x each time, then being canceled
• excuses, excuses, excuses..
I am hesitant to say that this book was worth the wait, because even if I think it, I feel like it would be dismissive to everything I listed above, and I don't want that to be the case. I really hope this author does better going forward. Her readers love her, and sure some didn't mind the absolute shit show that ensued these last few months of waiting, but some absolutely did.
Anyways, I will say that same as with Periculum, I absolutely loved this book. This series is so unique and intriguing and the detail that went into it was incredible. Anyone who rates this book any less than 5 stars for the sake of being salty and petty, shame on you.
Natalie, if you are reading this - please know that we absolutely love you and the worlds you create and share with us - and please don't make us wait too long for Daemonium.
June 17, 2021
I have been desperate to return to the Devil’s Playground world to find out just what the heck that ginormous book one cliffhanger was all about. And, like our first story, this is dark and twisted- like a literary horror movie playing out over the pages, both beguiling and disturbing. Think Hunger Games meets the Most Dangerous Game set-up, with a sprinkle of saw-like violence and inception like mind-bending twists- it’s all good, twisted fun.
Like all Natalie stories, it’s hard to share anything about the plot without spoiling the mystery, so I won't say much. Our story begins exactly where the last one ended, with Lana and her besties blindsided by the masterminds behind the perverse funhouse of nightmares and riddles they’ve been experiencing. And, they soon find out that the game has only just begun- but where exactly do Ciaran, Maverick, and the crew fit into this master plot?
I really loved the first book- one of Natalie’s greatest books written in terms of creativity and in terms of narrative focus. So, my expectations for this were high. While I definitely enjoyed this second installment in this horror series, it both felt less novel and less scary. The “game” felt more insulated and intimate this ago around- and so the danger never felt quite as imminent, or perilous, as it did in book one. The suspense was there, but not as much tragedy- the stakes don’t feel as high, or rather the game just felt too similar. And, the funhouse components felt a little less inspired, outside of the brilliant hospital leg. All still great Natalie Bennett dark magic- but I expected a bit more intensity since we learn this “leg” of the game is supposed to be the next level. And, our answers are expectedly few and far between- I wanted a bit more freshness, and a bit more answers, but I know we’ve got more of this story to come. The writing is still fantastic- a keen visual imagery here that brings this scenes to life like a reel of a movie- the hospital sequence in particular was riveting.
Don’t go into this expecting too much romance- we get a minor amount of steam, but horror and suspense take more of a center stage on this one, but never you fear, Ciaran is still as alluring and magnetic as always.
Book 1 was very much about exposing the game, and the real focus of this story is Lana EMBRACING it. I can see the writing on the wall just what the greater purpose might be- and the way she’s isolated through much of this story does allow for some interesting development with her ever evolving dark heroine. Looking forward to the next chapter in this intriguing series!
Like all Natalie stories, it’s hard to share anything about the plot without spoiling the mystery, so I won't say much. Our story begins exactly where the last one ended, with Lana and her besties blindsided by the masterminds behind the perverse funhouse of nightmares and riddles they’ve been experiencing. And, they soon find out that the game has only just begun- but where exactly do Ciaran, Maverick, and the crew fit into this master plot?
I really loved the first book- one of Natalie’s greatest books written in terms of creativity and in terms of narrative focus. So, my expectations for this were high. While I definitely enjoyed this second installment in this horror series, it both felt less novel and less scary. The “game” felt more insulated and intimate this ago around- and so the danger never felt quite as imminent, or perilous, as it did in book one. The suspense was there, but not as much tragedy- the stakes don’t feel as high, or rather the game just felt too similar. And, the funhouse components felt a little less inspired, outside of the brilliant hospital leg. All still great Natalie Bennett dark magic- but I expected a bit more intensity since we learn this “leg” of the game is supposed to be the next level. And, our answers are expectedly few and far between- I wanted a bit more freshness, and a bit more answers, but I know we’ve got more of this story to come. The writing is still fantastic- a keen visual imagery here that brings this scenes to life like a reel of a movie- the hospital sequence in particular was riveting.
Don’t go into this expecting too much romance- we get a minor amount of steam, but horror and suspense take more of a center stage on this one, but never you fear, Ciaran is still as alluring and magnetic as always.
Book 1 was very much about exposing the game, and the real focus of this story is Lana EMBRACING it. I can see the writing on the wall just what the greater purpose might be- and the way she’s isolated through much of this story does allow for some interesting development with her ever evolving dark heroine. Looking forward to the next chapter in this intriguing series!
July 2, 2021
Wow, wow, wow. These books are a total mind fu*k! I was desperate for some answers after book one, and ended up having so many more questions by the end of this book.
This book picks right back up where book one ends. Liliana and her friends are thrust into a new playground, for what I suppose is the second level. The girls are back on their own, navigating the crazy world of the Devil's Playground.
We meet some new characters and get drawn into a whole new level of 'what the fuck'.
Feeling betrayed by Ciaran, Liliana is determined to be her own saviour, and boy is she a badass, I loved it! She gave Ciaran a run for his money, thats for sure.
'You can’t hide a beautifully demented soul from someone born to raise hell.'
This book is a mix between The Purge, Saw and The Hunger Games. Its not for the fainthearted, thats for sure. SO BEWARE!
I do wish this book had more of Liliana and Ciaran together, but I didn't feel like it took away from the story. These books truly stay with me long after I have finished reading them, and they are unlike anything else I have ever read!
'It’s a penitentiary full of rhymes and riddles. Where dark and light go hand in hand. Blood and sin will drench your skin.
Fuck.
Kill.
Sacrifice.
Those are your only options.
Countless heirs have come before you.
Their rotting corpses shall be your sole companions.
Trust no one.
Question everything.
Pyscho vs psycho: let your true self emerge. Servatis a Maleficium.
Something wicked this way comes.
Welcome to the Devil’s Playground…'
This book picks right back up where book one ends. Liliana and her friends are thrust into a new playground, for what I suppose is the second level. The girls are back on their own, navigating the crazy world of the Devil's Playground.
We meet some new characters and get drawn into a whole new level of 'what the fuck'.
Feeling betrayed by Ciaran, Liliana is determined to be her own saviour, and boy is she a badass, I loved it! She gave Ciaran a run for his money, thats for sure.
'You can’t hide a beautifully demented soul from someone born to raise hell.'
This book is a mix between The Purge, Saw and The Hunger Games. Its not for the fainthearted, thats for sure. SO BEWARE!
I do wish this book had more of Liliana and Ciaran together, but I didn't feel like it took away from the story. These books truly stay with me long after I have finished reading them, and they are unlike anything else I have ever read!
'It’s a penitentiary full of rhymes and riddles. Where dark and light go hand in hand. Blood and sin will drench your skin.
Fuck.
Kill.
Sacrifice.
Those are your only options.
Countless heirs have come before you.
Their rotting corpses shall be your sole companions.
Trust no one.
Question everything.
Pyscho vs psycho: let your true self emerge. Servatis a Maleficium.
Something wicked this way comes.
Welcome to the Devil’s Playground…'
June 19, 2021
This book was my most anticipated read by this author for the year and she didn’t disappoint! I am absolutely shocked and speechless after reading this story idk where to even begin! This story right here is why Natalie Bennett is my favorite author of dark romance her storytelling is impeccable her attention to detail is amazing her characters are twisted and crazy and just EVERYTHING!!! Ciaran and Liliana are fast becoming my number one favorite couple from this author! Holy hell this book is bloody it’s twisted it’s everything and than some we expect from NB and I can’t wait for the next book in this series hang on because your in for one brutal twisted bumpy ride !
June 7, 2021
What an exciting story! It was like a big puzzle! Riddles, rhymes and the unknown made for an intriguing book!almost like a maze! And to think the game hasn’t even started! Anxiously awaiting! Let the show begin!
July 19, 2021
This is absolutely amazing if you are into horror suspense stories with lots of gore. It's balls to the wall psycho and it's entertainment gold!
Liliana is going through an initiation of sorts - for what, she has no idea. Along with her two best friends and a handful of folks who are somehow interconnected, they are in for it! The initiation is actually a demented and deadly game where people who can't save themselves die in gruesome ways. Ciaran and his group of friends also come into play, although what their roles are is not clear either. This is creepy AF, will keep you on the edge of your seat, and generally freaked out for a lot of it.
But there is a good amount of hilarity to be found in the insanity. The f-bombs and peals of laughter just kept flying out of me, but in the best way. I had a good time with it, all while being lost in riddles, puzzles, and hidden meanings. As the story progesses you get just enough info to start putting things together, but you're still left in the dark and with more questions by the end. This is so descriptively written and visualized, it is pure spectacle and I am loving this show!
Liliana is going through an initiation of sorts - for what, she has no idea. Along with her two best friends and a handful of folks who are somehow interconnected, they are in for it! The initiation is actually a demented and deadly game where people who can't save themselves die in gruesome ways. Ciaran and his group of friends also come into play, although what their roles are is not clear either. This is creepy AF, will keep you on the edge of your seat, and generally freaked out for a lot of it.
But there is a good amount of hilarity to be found in the insanity. The f-bombs and peals of laughter just kept flying out of me, but in the best way. I had a good time with it, all while being lost in riddles, puzzles, and hidden meanings. As the story progesses you get just enough info to start putting things together, but you're still left in the dark and with more questions by the end. This is so descriptively written and visualized, it is pure spectacle and I am loving this show!
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