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The Desecration of Innocence #2
Dark Desires
Monsters tend to hurt those they’re closest to.
I went from one prison to another, to a mansion hidden behind wealth and handsome faces. Here, there are no heroes, no Prince Charmings. Only men who aren’t afraid to kill to get what they want.
And what they want is me.
Markus Scott rules them all, but even with an iron fist, sometimes there’s rebellion. Something about my innocence draws these men and their dark desires to me, and something inside me calls right back.
This place, this house, these men—they will destroy me, even if I fall in line and do whatever they demand.
Angels don’t last long in hell… and neither does innocence.
**The Desecration of Innocence series will contain triggers. Violence, gore, kidnapping, among other things. This is the second book in an RH/Why choose series, meaning our girl will not have to choose. The men in this series are not heroes, so if you need that in your romance, turn back now. You’ve been warned. None of these men play nice.**
I went from one prison to another, to a mansion hidden behind wealth and handsome faces. Here, there are no heroes, no Prince Charmings. Only men who aren’t afraid to kill to get what they want.
And what they want is me.
Markus Scott rules them all, but even with an iron fist, sometimes there’s rebellion. Something about my innocence draws these men and their dark desires to me, and something inside me calls right back.
This place, this house, these men—they will destroy me, even if I fall in line and do whatever they demand.
Angels don’t last long in hell… and neither does innocence.
**The Desecration of Innocence series will contain triggers. Violence, gore, kidnapping, among other things. This is the second book in an RH/Why choose series, meaning our girl will not have to choose. The men in this series are not heroes, so if you need that in your romance, turn back now. You’ve been warned. None of these men play nice.**
417 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2021
357 people are currently reading
480 people want to read
About the author
Candace Wondrak
116 books1,845 followersHey guys! I'm a writer, an office worker, a wife, a mother to two dogs and two cats, and half of a strange pair of young adults who flip the houses they're living in with the goal of having no mortgage (so that I can eventually focus on my writing career!). Needless to say, I'm busy.
Still, I somehow find time to write, to read, and to enjoy life. Wish there were more hours in the day, really!
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Still, I somehow find time to write, to read, and to enjoy life. Wish there were more hours in the day, really!
If you're active on Goodreads and have similar interests, friend me. I don't bite. Or if you'd rather follow my reviews, you can do that, too.
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
August 23, 2022
Even though I’ve only made it through two books, trust me when I say this series has been A LOT. While I love a good psycho/sociopath storyline, somehow this has gone a little above my level of what’s acceptably crazy, if that makes sense. For me this author always writes a riveting and engaging story, this is no different. But the characters are very much irredeemable and even though I maybe sorta kinda care what happens to Jaxon and Will, I’m not sure it’s enough to keep reading. The emotional turmoil and trauma has taken it’s toll once again.
I’m still stuck on how unbroken Juliet is and honestly it’s shocking given her innocence and absence of experiencing life. After how the first book ended, I dived in hoping for Juliet to either have lost it totally or on the verge of flipping her own psychotic switch, something that she’ll never come back from. I struggle to connect this bold girl to her circumstance and situation. I found her character to be annoying most of the time and her behaviors never seemed to fit the timing. She did not win any points from me this time around. Not only was Juliet a disappointment, the subject matter and sick characters doing fucked up things just kept on going with no end in sight. As many reviewers complained, about 80% of the book is Juliet’s inner dialogue and they’re not, talk about exhausting. At no point in time did the book go as expected which normally I’d be raving about but here it was like having all hope extinguished. Not sure if I’ll go on, might need to read some fluff and then reassess.
I’m still stuck on how unbroken Juliet is and honestly it’s shocking given her innocence and absence of experiencing life. After how the first book ended, I dived in hoping for Juliet to either have lost it totally or on the verge of flipping her own psychotic switch, something that she’ll never come back from. I struggle to connect this bold girl to her circumstance and situation. I found her character to be annoying most of the time and her behaviors never seemed to fit the timing. She did not win any points from me this time around. Not only was Juliet a disappointment, the subject matter and sick characters doing fucked up things just kept on going with no end in sight. As many reviewers complained, about 80% of the book is Juliet’s inner dialogue and they’re not, talk about exhausting. At no point in time did the book go as expected which normally I’d be raving about but here it was like having all hope extinguished. Not sure if I’ll go on, might need to read some fluff and then reassess.
July 29, 2022
So the first book went out with a bang. My first thought was how could Juliet ever get over that. It was dark, twisted and very on brand for the Scott house and especially for Marcus. But colour me surprised when Juliet only spent a day in her room and then pretty much acted like nothing happened. In one hand she calls Jaxon and every one else Pychopaths and flinched away (normal response) and then the very next moment she invites him to sleep beside her.
I didn't know how they could move past what has happened and yet Juliets stupidity does that just fine. She knows they're monsters but she has desire and can't control it? Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for a good dark romance but this all seemed so unbelievable. There isn't one way to deal with trauma but you don't watch a snuff film and still look at the guy with desire. Not Juliet.
And don't get me started on her asking Jaxon to be her first. Like she forgets what happened when they just got too close? I'm very disappointed with how this series went. I hate Juliet as a FMC. She's been through some stuff but she is just horrid. I sped read through just to see if there was anything redeemable about this book and there wasn't.
The whole book grated me. Will not be continuing
I didn't know how they could move past what has happened and yet Juliets stupidity does that just fine. She knows they're monsters but she has desire and can't control it? Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for a good dark romance but this all seemed so unbelievable. There isn't one way to deal with trauma but you don't watch a snuff film and still look at the guy with desire. Not Juliet.
And don't get me started on her asking Jaxon to be her first. Like she forgets what happened when they just got too close? I'm very disappointed with how this series went. I hate Juliet as a FMC. She's been through some stuff but she is just horrid. I sped read through just to see if there was anything redeemable about this book and there wasn't.
The whole book grated me. Will not be continuing
August 5, 2021
Skipped most of the inner dialogue
This was super boring. It should have said in the description of the first book that it would be a slow burn.
None of the characters have any development and they all sounded the same - I wouldn't know who was talking without the chapter titles.
Stop using "for" instead of "because". I might have bought it when Juliet did it since she was so sheltered but they all did it. It distracts from the story.
Juliet was either crying about daddy or thinking about sex. She had zero substance. It's fine if she thinks about sex a lot but it's exactly the same thoughts over and over. Well maybe it changed in this book but I wouldn't know since I scrolled past so much of it.
I'm not sure why I finished it. I guess I hate leaving books half-read. I wasted a lot of time on these two books. I am so disappointed.
This was super boring. It should have said in the description of the first book that it would be a slow burn.
None of the characters have any development and they all sounded the same - I wouldn't know who was talking without the chapter titles.
Stop using "for" instead of "because". I might have bought it when Juliet did it since she was so sheltered but they all did it. It distracts from the story.
Juliet was either crying about daddy or thinking about sex. She had zero substance. It's fine if she thinks about sex a lot but it's exactly the same thoughts over and over. Well maybe it changed in this book but I wouldn't know since I scrolled past so much of it.
I'm not sure why I finished it. I guess I hate leaving books half-read. I wasted a lot of time on these two books. I am so disappointed.
June 19, 2022
Spoiler
Markus is beyond redemption and I refuse to give him the benefit of doubt he could make Juliet happy 😬 he literally FORCED Jaxon to have sex with a hooker. I’m done with this series ✋
Markus is beyond redemption and I refuse to give him the benefit of doubt he could make Juliet happy 😬 he literally FORCED Jaxon to have sex with a hooker. I’m done with this series ✋
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2021
Awful
I read a few chapters and went straight to the last. There isn’t really a story line. There is no reverse harem. It was awful and honestly I do t know why I bothered after the first book
I read a few chapters and went straight to the last. There isn’t really a story line. There is no reverse harem. It was awful and honestly I do t know why I bothered after the first book
June 7, 2023
Dark Desires is the second installment of The Desecration of Innocence series.
It's safe to say that this book and series just seems like a whole lot to digest. Probably more than I originally bargained for. The first book was just so interesting and completely sucked me into the overall dark mafia world. So, it's not that surprising that I dove headfirst into this one. It's just... sometimes things can be too much and too overwhelming. Which is exactly what this book ended up delivering.
Sure, I care about some people more than others. Will that eventually change? Maybe ... but maybe not. There's just so much conflict going on, with the book and within myself, that I'm not sure what is exactly going to happen next. Especially when it comes down to Juliet. I feel pain for her, and she amazes me with how strong she is. Then she ends up opening her mouth or doing something completely childish and I'm instantly annoyed. She has flaws for sure but dang, she was annoying in this one.
Can one hope for Juliet to change her ways and for her to actually grow? Or for anyone to actually grow in the next book? Ugh, I guess I will dive in and find out for myself. Wish me luck!
It's safe to say that this book and series just seems like a whole lot to digest. Probably more than I originally bargained for. The first book was just so interesting and completely sucked me into the overall dark mafia world. So, it's not that surprising that I dove headfirst into this one. It's just... sometimes things can be too much and too overwhelming. Which is exactly what this book ended up delivering.
Sure, I care about some people more than others. Will that eventually change? Maybe ... but maybe not. There's just so much conflict going on, with the book and within myself, that I'm not sure what is exactly going to happen next. Especially when it comes down to Juliet. I feel pain for her, and she amazes me with how strong she is. Then she ends up opening her mouth or doing something completely childish and I'm instantly annoyed. She has flaws for sure but dang, she was annoying in this one.
Can one hope for Juliet to change her ways and for her to actually grow? Or for anyone to actually grow in the next book? Ugh, I guess I will dive in and find out for myself. Wish me luck!
October 19, 2021
Dnf
I tried but I just couldn’t keep going. This lass is still so pathetic and useless. Even though I’ve been wishing it, I think if she did start to show some self respect now it would be too unbelievable.
I tried but I just couldn’t keep going. This lass is still so pathetic and useless. Even though I’ve been wishing it, I think if she did start to show some self respect now it would be too unbelievable.
September 18, 2021
Not my cup of tea in the slightest unfortunately. Was the ultimate slow burn and so much inner dialogue I thought I was going to drown in it :(
November 15, 2021
To sick
For me that’s for sure. No one can remain healthy in these types of situations. I cant say I would recommend this book
For me that’s for sure. No one can remain healthy in these types of situations. I cant say I would recommend this book
May 21, 2022
DNS at 55% soooooo boring
November 27, 2022
Story picked up from where the first ended with Juliet being locked in room with a dead body as Marcus' punishment for a failed escape attempt. Despite Juliet feeling traumatized, she still carried out acts of rebellion in the form of seducing Jaxon and never hesitating to tell Marcuse what she thought of him. Marcus still struggled with his feelings for her and the effect she's having on his brothers, making them willing to disobey him to have her.
Honestly even I'm surprised at my high rating. This book had some pacing issues and repetitive introspection, especially from Juliet. Her POV just doesn't interest me as much as the guys. Not much actually happened to move the plot along. There were some tedious dream scenes I could've done without. We still don't know what Juliet's dad did to earn Marcus' wrath. The RH still hasn't been formed with each guy still wanting Juliet for themselves. This story had many issues but the engaging writing kept me reading and wanting to know what was going to happen next. The scene with Will was so hot (somnophilia, y'all) and what ultimately drove Marcus to claim Juliet in grand fashion (in front of Will no less). Marcus showed why he was the King of his little kingdom. My favorites so far and Will and King Marcus. Unsure if Bennett is a potential with his unstable ass. Looking forward to the next book.
Honestly even I'm surprised at my high rating. This book had some pacing issues and repetitive introspection, especially from Juliet. Her POV just doesn't interest me as much as the guys. Not much actually happened to move the plot along. There were some tedious dream scenes I could've done without. We still don't know what Juliet's dad did to earn Marcus' wrath. The RH still hasn't been formed with each guy still wanting Juliet for themselves. This story had many issues but the engaging writing kept me reading and wanting to know what was going to happen next. The scene with Will was so hot (somnophilia, y'all) and what ultimately drove Marcus to claim Juliet in grand fashion (in front of Will no less). Marcus showed why he was the King of his little kingdom. My favorites so far and Will and King Marcus. Unsure if Bennett is a potential with his unstable ass. Looking forward to the next book.
July 30, 2022
Dark desires
There's something deliciously dark about these characters and how they fall for the innocent bunny that is Juliet.
I can't wait to read more!
There's something deliciously dark about these characters and how they fall for the innocent bunny that is Juliet.
I can't wait to read more!
November 21, 2023
Better then the first one, but still to little of Marcus. I'm not really a fan of Jaxon or Theo.
August 8, 2021
Dark Desires is the second book in The Desecration of Innocence series. I've said in my previous review of this series that I was worried this would be more of the same, but thankfully the author managed to shake thing up, and all thanks to Will and Markus. They are both a force to be reckoned with, and though similar in many ways, Will manages to prove he might very well be one step further into psycho territory. Markus is cruel, controlled and has lines not even this god devil crosses, but Will is unpredictable and manipulative, and both of them together in the same book can only mean utter and complete chaos. Juliet herself is a joy to read about. Even though I'm not so into uber innocent characters, her innocence makes her enderaing and I can understand the fascination these dark men have over her. Even in all her purity, Juliet doesn't shy away from the all-consuming darkness and is in fact attracted to it.
Juliet is an angel in the darkness, and the demons surrounding her are attracted to her light like moths to a flame. Jaxon is the one I'm least invested in, as he tries to act all knightly and stuff, but we have yet to see his dark side shine. Will is the only character who was an actual protagonist in two different series, Hillcrest and this one, so by now readers have a grasp on his personality and how insane he truly is. His obssession over Juliet goes beyond any morals, and it might be difficult for readers to stomach some of his actions. Markus is starting to break, and it's a beautiful thing to watch. He wants Juliet so badly he is second guessing his actions. I wouldn't call it regret, but definitely something is changing in Markus Scott. There is a reason why he is the best character amongst all the books in the author's universe. There is no one else like him, and his presence commands every page, even when he is not actually present.
We also have Theo as a prominent character, and I really like him. Theo is the only other adult character besides Jules that can be considered remotely good, and he somehow became a rock to her. Then there is Bennet... Bennet, Bennet, Bennet, what am I going to do with you? He is as volatile as a chemical substance and definitely a loose cannon, which is why I already love him. He loathes Juliet in a raw and hateful way and yet he too is drawn to her light, and that pisses him off more than words can describe. He is probably crazier than Lincoln, Killian and Will, and that is saying something. I'm not sure Theo and Bennet are going to be part of Juliet's harem, I can see Theo joining but Bennet might need more time to actually give himself to anyone, but I hope that they'll both have their own stories soon, Bennet even more so. I do love a deranged bastard, after all.
Finally, a character that definitely grabbed my attention is little Tori, the one character that has power to tell Markus what to do. I laugh my ass off with her sassiness, and the pool scene got me chuckling like a maniac. Hopefully the author has a plan for Tori when she's older, because she definitely deserves her own story. Maybe after writing about Juliet and Bennet, which seem to be the youngest as of now in the Scott's house, there will be another time jump and Tori'll get her chance to shine, who knows?
Overall, the second book was even better than the first, and I hope the story will continue to improve under Markus' watchful eyes. I'm just a little bummed that the third installment will seemingly take a long time to release. The author stated that they're working in the follow-up to Voyeur, a book I'm not crazy about. I did state in my review of that book that I thought the ending was lacking, so I guess a sequel isn't a bad thing per se, but I'm not gonna lie and say I'm not a little disappointed that book #3 isn't coming anytime soon. Gonna miss my pooh-bear Markus :(
5/5 stars
Juliet is an angel in the darkness, and the demons surrounding her are attracted to her light like moths to a flame. Jaxon is the one I'm least invested in, as he tries to act all knightly and stuff, but we have yet to see his dark side shine. Will is the only character who was an actual protagonist in two different series, Hillcrest and this one, so by now readers have a grasp on his personality and how insane he truly is. His obssession over Juliet goes beyond any morals, and it might be difficult for readers to stomach some of his actions. Markus is starting to break, and it's a beautiful thing to watch. He wants Juliet so badly he is second guessing his actions. I wouldn't call it regret, but definitely something is changing in Markus Scott. There is a reason why he is the best character amongst all the books in the author's universe. There is no one else like him, and his presence commands every page, even when he is not actually present.
We also have Theo as a prominent character, and I really like him. Theo is the only other adult character besides Jules that can be considered remotely good, and he somehow became a rock to her. Then there is Bennet... Bennet, Bennet, Bennet, what am I going to do with you? He is as volatile as a chemical substance and definitely a loose cannon, which is why I already love him. He loathes Juliet in a raw and hateful way and yet he too is drawn to her light, and that pisses him off more than words can describe. He is probably crazier than Lincoln, Killian and Will, and that is saying something. I'm not sure Theo and Bennet are going to be part of Juliet's harem, I can see Theo joining but Bennet might need more time to actually give himself to anyone, but I hope that they'll both have their own stories soon, Bennet even more so. I do love a deranged bastard, after all.
Finally, a character that definitely grabbed my attention is little Tori, the one character that has power to tell Markus what to do. I laugh my ass off with her sassiness, and the pool scene got me chuckling like a maniac. Hopefully the author has a plan for Tori when she's older, because she definitely deserves her own story. Maybe after writing about Juliet and Bennet, which seem to be the youngest as of now in the Scott's house, there will be another time jump and Tori'll get her chance to shine, who knows?
Overall, the second book was even better than the first, and I hope the story will continue to improve under Markus' watchful eyes. I'm just a little bummed that the third installment will seemingly take a long time to release. The author stated that they're working in the follow-up to Voyeur, a book I'm not crazy about. I did state in my review of that book that I thought the ending was lacking, so I guess a sequel isn't a bad thing per se, but I'm not gonna lie and say I'm not a little disappointed that book #3 isn't coming anytime soon. Gonna miss my pooh-bear Markus :(
5/5 stars
September 11, 2022
Hmmm… I loved book 1. I was really drawn into the mystery of the story and the slow burn of the growing attraction between the h and various H. This book actually had more action, but I actually didn’t enjoy it as much. I felt so bad for will. He is likely the villain in the prior books so we aren’t meant to feel much for him, but I do feel bad for his character. I’m not sure why I didn’t care for this book though.
I guess this was meant to set up the betrayal of will and her being with Markus. I wish she would’ve figured out Markus plan regarding Jaxson bc it was obvious. Jaxson told her Markus would use him to hurt her. I love Juliet wide eye bushy tail nativity but she is annoying me by her stupidity and not asking questions. Even going out in the woods with Bennett was a dumb idea. I’m not sure why she didn’t tell Markus about Bennett. I wish she had intervened to stop will from being beaten to a pulp before she did. She did the same thing with Jaxson. I’m sure it’s coming in book 3, but I want her to own her wants and desires. She wants will, it’s okay be with him. Idk I hated what Markus did to both guys. I was going to give 3 stars bc I was hoping for more revelations or transformations. It seems they are saying will has reverted to his psychopathic ways. I haven’t read his pass book but he doesn’t seem any different and seems to genuinely care and lover her. It was wrong what he did but I do feel bad for him. I wish she could’ve admitted her feelings and they had both been consensual. So that saddened me.
Added: I made this a 3 star review. I slept on it and it just seems like the story is being prolonged and stretched out as long as possible. I enjoy character development and want a fully fleshed out story. However this book just felt fillerish. After everything that happened on book 1, I don’t feel any closer to learning anything new other than Juliet secretly likes being dominated. The last seen to me is exactly what she said she would never do. I don’t see her any different from Stella at this point as it essentially mirrors the basement video that she watched and was so judgmental and disgusted about. The only difference was no r or murder. I’m assuming the point of all her other sexual encounters was the ready her for this, bc the Bennett situation to me was way more egregious and he is a lot more unstable than will, but I may just have a soft spot for his character since he truly seems to care about her and literally have the guts to stand up to Markus about her as opposed to any of her other suitors. That makes him a bit better than jaxson who cowers and hides in the shadows.
So 3 stars not bc of any technical issues, mainly just bc it didn’t seemingly add anything to the storyline other than will regressing I guess but even that I didn’t see the progression regarding. But may be missing something since I didn’t read his prior books
I guess this was meant to set up the betrayal of will and her being with Markus. I wish she would’ve figured out Markus plan regarding Jaxson bc it was obvious. Jaxson told her Markus would use him to hurt her. I love Juliet wide eye bushy tail nativity but she is annoying me by her stupidity and not asking questions. Even going out in the woods with Bennett was a dumb idea. I’m not sure why she didn’t tell Markus about Bennett. I wish she had intervened to stop will from being beaten to a pulp before she did. She did the same thing with Jaxson. I’m sure it’s coming in book 3, but I want her to own her wants and desires. She wants will, it’s okay be with him. Idk I hated what Markus did to both guys. I was going to give 3 stars bc I was hoping for more revelations or transformations. It seems they are saying will has reverted to his psychopathic ways. I haven’t read his pass book but he doesn’t seem any different and seems to genuinely care and lover her. It was wrong what he did but I do feel bad for him. I wish she could’ve admitted her feelings and they had both been consensual. So that saddened me.
Added: I made this a 3 star review. I slept on it and it just seems like the story is being prolonged and stretched out as long as possible. I enjoy character development and want a fully fleshed out story. However this book just felt fillerish. After everything that happened on book 1, I don’t feel any closer to learning anything new other than Juliet secretly likes being dominated. The last seen to me is exactly what she said she would never do. I don’t see her any different from Stella at this point as it essentially mirrors the basement video that she watched and was so judgmental and disgusted about. The only difference was no r or murder. I’m assuming the point of all her other sexual encounters was the ready her for this, bc the Bennett situation to me was way more egregious and he is a lot more unstable than will, but I may just have a soft spot for his character since he truly seems to care about her and literally have the guts to stand up to Markus about her as opposed to any of her other suitors. That makes him a bit better than jaxson who cowers and hides in the shadows.
So 3 stars not bc of any technical issues, mainly just bc it didn’t seemingly add anything to the storyline other than will regressing I guess but even that I didn’t see the progression regarding. But may be missing something since I didn’t read his prior books
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2022
99% internal dialogue 😤
I’m SO EXHAUSTED reading this series. It’s 99% run-on, internal dialogue. It just doesn’t stop. It never stops. I think, if you added up all the actual dialogue in this book, it would only amount to maybe 3-4 pages. That’s it. And book 1 was equally as bad.
And Markus. Ughh, what an absolute a$$ and disgusting pig. So far, can’t really say I like him. Here’s to hoping he’ll change his tune—and soon—because I don’t know how much more of this a$$hole I can take. His never-ending cruelty is simply not enjoyable. It’s beyond abusive.
And Juliet, jaysus, what a hot mess. She really falls short for me. I don’t find her to be all that believable. In book 1, after Markus literally forces her to participate in brutally murdering an innocent man, that should have been the point-of-no-return. Yet, only 3 days later, she’s picturing Markus naked, blushing, and wondering what it’d be like to sleep with him. This wide-eyed, innocent girl who’s never experienced life or the world, or even met someone long enough to say that she knew them, this “innocent” girl is just TOTALLY FINE and over the fact that she helped murder someone, and was then locked in the room with the dead body all night long? You expect us to believe this utterly innocent girl is over the murder in 3 days? Gtfo. Totally ridiculous. It’s makes the book infuriating. If you’re going to go there, then be prepared to actually sell it. And no, the never-ending internal diatribe does not sell it. Not even remotely.
I’m also still not over the rape and murder scene in book 1. It was so incredibly uncomfortable and gross to read. I get that the Scotts are supposed to be evil, but your readers are not. If you’re going to include a scene like that, make it make sense to a reader. Can we know what the raped and murdered girl did? I’m not justifying it, but I mean, literally anything would be better than what we got.
And going back to Juliet, after Markus made her watch the rape/murder scene, she’s just like, “Well, gosh that’s horrible, but whatever. Boy, Markus is so hot. Gee, I wonder where Jaxon is? Hmm, I wonder what it’d be like to kiss Will?”
Is anyone even at home in Juliet’s head? Did she suffer a debilitating head injury at some point in life that makes her completely incapable of making rational decisions? Because even as sheltered as she was, she still had tv, and she definitely knows that rape, murder and torture are BAD. Yet, she’s like, “Whatever! I love pink fuzzy unicorn pajamas! Yay! Mario Kart!”
I’m just at such a loss for this series. Not sure if I’ll bother finishing it.
I’m SO EXHAUSTED reading this series. It’s 99% run-on, internal dialogue. It just doesn’t stop. It never stops. I think, if you added up all the actual dialogue in this book, it would only amount to maybe 3-4 pages. That’s it. And book 1 was equally as bad.
And Markus. Ughh, what an absolute a$$ and disgusting pig. So far, can’t really say I like him. Here’s to hoping he’ll change his tune—and soon—because I don’t know how much more of this a$$hole I can take. His never-ending cruelty is simply not enjoyable. It’s beyond abusive.
And Juliet, jaysus, what a hot mess. She really falls short for me. I don’t find her to be all that believable. In book 1, after Markus literally forces her to participate in brutally murdering an innocent man, that should have been the point-of-no-return. Yet, only 3 days later, she’s picturing Markus naked, blushing, and wondering what it’d be like to sleep with him. This wide-eyed, innocent girl who’s never experienced life or the world, or even met someone long enough to say that she knew them, this “innocent” girl is just TOTALLY FINE and over the fact that she helped murder someone, and was then locked in the room with the dead body all night long? You expect us to believe this utterly innocent girl is over the murder in 3 days? Gtfo. Totally ridiculous. It’s makes the book infuriating. If you’re going to go there, then be prepared to actually sell it. And no, the never-ending internal diatribe does not sell it. Not even remotely.
I’m also still not over the rape and murder scene in book 1. It was so incredibly uncomfortable and gross to read. I get that the Scotts are supposed to be evil, but your readers are not. If you’re going to include a scene like that, make it make sense to a reader. Can we know what the raped and murdered girl did? I’m not justifying it, but I mean, literally anything would be better than what we got.
And going back to Juliet, after Markus made her watch the rape/murder scene, she’s just like, “Well, gosh that’s horrible, but whatever. Boy, Markus is so hot. Gee, I wonder where Jaxon is? Hmm, I wonder what it’d be like to kiss Will?”
Is anyone even at home in Juliet’s head? Did she suffer a debilitating head injury at some point in life that makes her completely incapable of making rational decisions? Because even as sheltered as she was, she still had tv, and she definitely knows that rape, murder and torture are BAD. Yet, she’s like, “Whatever! I love pink fuzzy unicorn pajamas! Yay! Mario Kart!”
I’m just at such a loss for this series. Not sure if I’ll bother finishing it.
July 21, 2022
Slow burn
I can't say I'm surprised by the build up but I'm really disappointed by the rape stuff...I don't mind the killing or even the blood...but Stella and that whole rape stuff while killing a mark? Not my thing...just didn't sit well with me
I can't say I'm surprised by the build up but I'm really disappointed by the rape stuff...I don't mind the killing or even the blood...but Stella and that whole rape stuff while killing a mark? Not my thing...just didn't sit well with me
January 10, 2023
This book picked up pretty much where the first left off and except for a few dream sequences and dangling carrots, it felt very much like books 1. There was no progression of character development, pushing forward the plot, or new revelations. To say the least this book was a frustrating read.
Juliet is not only frustratingly naïve, but incredibly stupid and nonsensical. At the end of book 1 we she had yet another traumatizing experience where she has learned new depths of the horrors of the house she is trapped in and it's inhabitants. Does that make her reticent or chill her attraction to them? No, not at all. She's lusting after them all and with at least one character you're trying to figure out why because they have shown no redeeming qualities. I would like to say the author alluded to some inner hidden depravity, but nope! The author, Juliet, and all the residents of the Scott house keep pounding into us that Juliet is goodness, light, and sunshine and nothing like the monsters of the Scott clan.
Then there is the never ending, repetitive inner dialogue. If I read "Prince Charming," "Daddy," or how "cute" the men of the Scott household were one more time I was going to throw my tablet across the room... and why should my tablet suffer for lazy writing. I found myself skimming this book because scenes when characters were actually doing something that should have taken a couple of paragraphs took pages and pages because god forbid someone walk across the room without us reading their every inner thought. Honestly, if the inner dialogue was gutted book 1 and 2 could have been combined.
I have read two previous series by this write that are related to the Scatt clan and really enjoyed them. They were lusciously dark, but this series so far does not hold up to the others. While there are still some outstanding questions in the series I cannot bring myself to continue. I suggest skipping this one.
Juliet is not only frustratingly naïve, but incredibly stupid and nonsensical. At the end of book 1 we she had yet another traumatizing experience where she has learned new depths of the horrors of the house she is trapped in and it's inhabitants. Does that make her reticent or chill her attraction to them? No, not at all. She's lusting after them all and with at least one character you're trying to figure out why because they have shown no redeeming qualities. I would like to say the author alluded to some inner hidden depravity, but nope! The author, Juliet, and all the residents of the Scott house keep pounding into us that Juliet is goodness, light, and sunshine and nothing like the monsters of the Scott clan.
Then there is the never ending, repetitive inner dialogue. If I read "Prince Charming," "Daddy," or how "cute" the men of the Scott household were one more time I was going to throw my tablet across the room... and why should my tablet suffer for lazy writing. I found myself skimming this book because scenes when characters were actually doing something that should have taken a couple of paragraphs took pages and pages because god forbid someone walk across the room without us reading their every inner thought. Honestly, if the inner dialogue was gutted book 1 and 2 could have been combined.
I have read two previous series by this write that are related to the Scatt clan and really enjoyed them. They were lusciously dark, but this series so far does not hold up to the others. While there are still some outstanding questions in the series I cannot bring myself to continue. I suggest skipping this one.
August 5, 2021
We pick right up where we left off in book one. Juliet (FMC) is still in the basement locked in a dark room with a dead body and blood coating her feet. However for Juliet she has lived as a prisoner her whole life, first by her father, now by Markus. Markus (criminal leader) is one of the MMC’s. There is also Jaxon (bodyguard/enforcer for Markus), Will (killer/slightly twisted/bodyguard, and whatever Markus needs him to be), Theo (Doc) and Bennett (killer/psycho/loves his knife play) that all somehow become fully enchanted with Juliet's innocence. Markus is determined that she is his and no one else will have her. Jaxon has fallen head first for her, and takes the one thing she feels is her right to give, her virginity. Will is playing the long game by turning Markus’s fury of betrayal towards Jaxon, and his lust towards Juliet. Jaxon secretly steals moments alone with Juliet himself, at least he thought they were secret. Then we have Bennett that sees her as a weakness and wants her back in the basement to play with. But when he gets her alone outside he can’t help but to play with her. Markus is pissed over all the betrayal at the hands of guys he has thought of as loyal for years. Things get twisted and more of their darkness gets revealed to Juliet in this book. Once again, as soon as everything picks up we are left with the end. Can not wait for book 3 and what truths come out.
May 29, 2023
Book 1 started getting a little better by the end and I was hoping Markus was just a jealous, obsessive and controlling alpha, but I was hoping he’d change a little in book 2- like other villains do in these stories. But no. I want to like him so much, but I can’t. I’m waiting for Juliet to get a backbone with him, and I’m waiting for him to wake up and realize that by him punishing Jaxson and Will, it’s only hurting Juliet in the end. And when she realizes what he made Jaxson do I’m hoping more than anything she stands up for herself. But I don’t think she will, I mean Markus beat Will to a pulp right in front of her for what he did and what did she do, drop to her knees for him! I do like Jaxson and Will, those two and Theo actually care about her.
I honestly don’t know what to think. I’m having a hard time connecting with any of the characters. There’s no relationship between any of them. And we’re still not getting reasons as why Markus really took her. I love dark romances with the ultimate antiheroes who are cruel and dangerous, but this series is lacking the chemistry. But I’m also invested and really interested to see what happens so of course I’m continuing! Onto book 3.
I honestly don’t know what to think. I’m having a hard time connecting with any of the characters. There’s no relationship between any of them. And we’re still not getting reasons as why Markus really took her. I love dark romances with the ultimate antiheroes who are cruel and dangerous, but this series is lacking the chemistry. But I’m also invested and really interested to see what happens so of course I’m continuing! Onto book 3.
February 3, 2024
very slow.
This series and book is extremely slow and has trudged along. A lot of the book is spent on inner monologues and thinking about what they want to do instead of actions. It finally picked up towards the end but I’m not sure how much character development there’s been. Some of them might’ve gotten [worse.in](http://worse.in) the beginning Juliet said these men had her by the heart. The throat? Yes, but the heart? No. I don’t think we’re there quite yet. Im also very surprised I didn’t read any review that was disturbed by what Will did. Very much noncon. Like what?! I really don’t see how this will be a willing reverse harem. Everybody is psycho and possessive.
I feel like the authors notes, both in this book and the previous, have a bit of an attitude behind them. First, take the triggers seriously. It’s non-con as in non consensual not non-com. Then she throws the jab in about it being a series and that we won’t get all the answers right away. True but I feel as though we almost learned nothing in Book 1 and were essentially just introduced to the major players. Last, “If you can’t handle that, don’t pick up the book.” Rude. Just say this book may not be for you.
This series and book is extremely slow and has trudged along. A lot of the book is spent on inner monologues and thinking about what they want to do instead of actions. It finally picked up towards the end but I’m not sure how much character development there’s been. Some of them might’ve gotten [worse.in](http://worse.in) the beginning Juliet said these men had her by the heart. The throat? Yes, but the heart? No. I don’t think we’re there quite yet. Im also very surprised I didn’t read any review that was disturbed by what Will did. Very much noncon. Like what?! I really don’t see how this will be a willing reverse harem. Everybody is psycho and possessive.
I feel like the authors notes, both in this book and the previous, have a bit of an attitude behind them. First, take the triggers seriously. It’s non-con as in non consensual not non-com. Then she throws the jab in about it being a series and that we won’t get all the answers right away. True but I feel as though we almost learned nothing in Book 1 and were essentially just introduced to the major players. Last, “If you can’t handle that, don’t pick up the book.” Rude. Just say this book may not be for you.
7-tbr-ooit
May 26, 2022
August 13, 2021
Depravity to the next level
Mind. Blown. 🤯 I knew that this series would contain much darker elements not seen in this author’s previous books, or at least not directly happening between the potential men of the harem and Juliet. The author held nothing back here, no punches were pulled. The darkness each of these men possess were showcased in various methods and let me tell ya, these men are messed up. But I love it!! I am interested to see how much this life and the new environment will change Juliet as time continues. Juliet will not be the same girl we were introduced to in the beginning by the time this series is done.
There are trigger warnings listed in the beginning of the book but I will list them again for those readers who tend to skip the foreword and author notes. There is noncon in this book, other woman/cheating (there is an exception to it but I can’t explain it without spoiling what actually happens), violence, blood play, and domination play.
Mind. Blown. 🤯 I knew that this series would contain much darker elements not seen in this author’s previous books, or at least not directly happening between the potential men of the harem and Juliet. The author held nothing back here, no punches were pulled. The darkness each of these men possess were showcased in various methods and let me tell ya, these men are messed up. But I love it!! I am interested to see how much this life and the new environment will change Juliet as time continues. Juliet will not be the same girl we were introduced to in the beginning by the time this series is done.
There are trigger warnings listed in the beginning of the book but I will list them again for those readers who tend to skip the foreword and author notes. There is noncon in this book, other woman/cheating (there is an exception to it but I can’t explain it without spoiling what actually happens), violence, blood play, and domination play.
August 2, 2021
Urgh! I could not wait to get my hands on this book and it certainly did not disappoint. Candace Wondrak literally blows my mind every time. I've read every book of hers now and I'm always left wanting more.
The men in this series are not good and well, seriously fucked up, but we all love a sick and twisted bad boy, don't we? I had no idea where this book would take me, I thought I knew what characters reactions to things were going to be but I was wrong every time!
Can we please get more Bennet?! He is so deranged it has me ridiculously curious, I would love to get inside his head. I can't wait for the next book in the series because although I know Juliet's dad is no good, he's still a complete mystery to me and I can't wait to find out who he really is and what his intentions are.
Once again, brilliant story, perfectly imperfect characters and left me wanting more. Always more!
The men in this series are not good and well, seriously fucked up, but we all love a sick and twisted bad boy, don't we? I had no idea where this book would take me, I thought I knew what characters reactions to things were going to be but I was wrong every time!
Can we please get more Bennet?! He is so deranged it has me ridiculously curious, I would love to get inside his head. I can't wait for the next book in the series because although I know Juliet's dad is no good, he's still a complete mystery to me and I can't wait to find out who he really is and what his intentions are.
Once again, brilliant story, perfectly imperfect characters and left me wanting more. Always more!
February 16, 2023
Wow I couldn't put it down, literally!
I really am loving this series. Just when I truly thought Will turned a new leaf , Wrong! I almost was giving up on Marcus but he's not going to be a typical nice bringing home flowers and whispering sweet nothings in Juliet's ears but at least he's not trying to kill her , not physically but every other way. He's still rotten but with this bunch of Psychos it's all relative! Stella, Edward and Lincoln and Killian make an appearance and I truly hope Lincoln and Stella get slowly tortured by Juliet! Lol! Ugh I truly hate them ! If you read the first book you know how dark and twisted this series is . I get so charged up reading these books because they are so well written! Off to the next read!
I really am loving this series. Just when I truly thought Will turned a new leaf , Wrong! I almost was giving up on Marcus but he's not going to be a typical nice bringing home flowers and whispering sweet nothings in Juliet's ears but at least he's not trying to kill her , not physically but every other way. He's still rotten but with this bunch of Psychos it's all relative! Stella, Edward and Lincoln and Killian make an appearance and I truly hope Lincoln and Stella get slowly tortured by Juliet! Lol! Ugh I truly hate them ! If you read the first book you know how dark and twisted this series is . I get so charged up reading these books because they are so well written! Off to the next read!
December 27, 2023
Meh
I'm struggling to finish this series.
I really hate how pathetic and stupid the main character is. Also, her & Markus's interactions have been horribly lacking; he basically wanted a human pet, and he got one, but she could literally be interchangeable with anyone else. At least Will's obsession (along with everyone else's) grows because of something to do with her. I find the random interactions between her and Bennett more believable than anything between her and Markus. I'm not sure I want to keep going, but I've read everything else in this universe, and I know there could be other side & back stories possibly mixed in here. 🙄
I'm struggling to finish this series.
I really hate how pathetic and stupid the main character is. Also, her & Markus's interactions have been horribly lacking; he basically wanted a human pet, and he got one, but she could literally be interchangeable with anyone else. At least Will's obsession (along with everyone else's) grows because of something to do with her. I find the random interactions between her and Bennett more believable than anything between her and Markus. I'm not sure I want to keep going, but I've read everything else in this universe, and I know there could be other side & back stories possibly mixed in here. 🙄
August 4, 2021
Damn this series is dark!
Markus Markus Markus, god why is this mean s.o.b so hot sounding. Jaxson and Theo the sweet boys and will damn you dirty dog. I must admit I also love Bennett’s psycho a$$ too haha. Juliet is such an interesting main character, she is innocent but wants more in life. She went from one prison to another- we haven’t been given more insight into her father, just tid bits. Stella and her RH is such an interesting bunch too. Tori that crazy little girl, I love her. Will definitely keep going with this series!
Markus Markus Markus, god why is this mean s.o.b so hot sounding. Jaxson and Theo the sweet boys and will damn you dirty dog. I must admit I also love Bennett’s psycho a$$ too haha. Juliet is such an interesting main character, she is innocent but wants more in life. She went from one prison to another- we haven’t been given more insight into her father, just tid bits. Stella and her RH is such an interesting bunch too. Tori that crazy little girl, I love her. Will definitely keep going with this series!
August 1, 2021
Soooo Gooood
I absolutely loved Will and most definitely Markus yummy. I'm so happy Markus finally claimed his girl. Oh Jaxon what are we going to do with you and Theo. You guys need to grow some balls and stand up for the girl you want like Will. Will doesn't care how beat up he'll get or hurt to be able to claim his girl. I love all your books Candice. This series is turning out to be so freaking good. I'm not sure how patient I'll be trying to wait for the next one.
I absolutely loved Will and most definitely Markus yummy. I'm so happy Markus finally claimed his girl. Oh Jaxon what are we going to do with you and Theo. You guys need to grow some balls and stand up for the girl you want like Will. Will doesn't care how beat up he'll get or hurt to be able to claim his girl. I love all your books Candice. This series is turning out to be so freaking good. I'm not sure how patient I'll be trying to wait for the next one.
August 2, 2021
What can I say, this story just gets better and better.
Fantastic book that I couldn't put down.
I love all those guys, yes they are not angels but who cares. 😁😁😁
Everyone should love a bad boy. 🔥
My favourite is Jaxon, but can't wait to see how their story will improve because can't get any worse at the moment, poor guy. 🥺
The one guy I want to read more about though is Bennett, poor guy just wants to be loved. ❤
Well I definitely recommend to everyone. 🙂
Fantastic book that I couldn't put down.
I love all those guys, yes they are not angels but who cares. 😁😁😁
Everyone should love a bad boy. 🔥
My favourite is Jaxon, but can't wait to see how their story will improve because can't get any worse at the moment, poor guy. 🥺
The one guy I want to read more about though is Bennett, poor guy just wants to be loved. ❤
Well I definitely recommend to everyone. 🙂
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