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Dark Sovereignty #2

Tainted Reasoning

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"Why would I let the world see him? He's imperfect. No, he needs to stick to the shadows where he'll not bring shame to this family."

William Cavendish is…different. Too much so for his merciless father to bear publicly. He was hidden away from the world his entire life until, in one dark moment, he did the unthinkable to save his beloved brother, gaining his own freedom in the process. But liberty has its own price. William struggles with a world he doesn’t understand, emotions he’s never experienced…and an alarming taste for the dark side he’s discovered dwelling within him.

Formally educated in law, Tamara Bennet is unlike most women of the day. Not bad for the daughter of a lowly lady’s maid. When she learns a secret society was responsible for the torture of her closest acquaintance, Victoria Cavendish, she vows to employ any and all means—legal or otherwise—to bring the society to its knees. At her side is Victoria herself, as well as Victoria’s husband, Nicholas, and his brother—the intriguing and troubled William.

Delving ever deeper into London’s darkest shadows, an undeniable attraction blooms between William and Tamara, bringing them closer and closer…until their actions stir up perilous forces determined to tear them apart.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 22, 2019

39 people are currently reading
296 people want to read

About the author

Anna Edwards

93 books717 followers
Nestled in the tranquil rural landscape near London, I'm a British author whose journey from the world of accounting to the realm of writing has been nothing short of transformative. While I occasionally revisit my numbers-oriented past, my days are predominantly filled with the harmonious dance between crafting compelling narratives and tending to my cherished family—my husband, two children, and a lively household of four cats and one dog
.
In those rare leisure moments, you'll find me lost in the enchanting world of poetry, delighting in the creation (and indulgence) of decadent cakes or fervently capturing moments through the lens of my camera.

Writing emerged as my beacon of hope in navigating the labyrinth of depression and anxiety. My insatiable love for literature and the boundless horizon of travel infuses my tales with the rich tapestry of my adventures. I strive to breathe life into my stories with an air of authenticity that resonates with readers.

Within the pages of my books, you'll encounter heroes exuding charisma and rugged allure, heroines embodying both grace and tenacity, all enveloped in the cloak of dramatic suspense.


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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
Profile Image for The Sassy Bookworm.
4,068 reviews2,873 followers
January 17, 2019
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description So where do I begin? This book was looking like it was going to be a 4-star read. I was enjoying more than I did book one. I adored Tamara and Willaim. I seemed to be a little less dark than book one. Less OW drama etc. All good things. Then I got to a scene that takes place right near the end. An unnecessarily over the top graphic and all my good feelings for the book went out the window. I really would have loved to have known about that scene going in. Or at least known there was a trigger like that in the book. I can deal with this type of scene if I think it fits in with the story, but this felt like the author was just going for shock value. Not to mention the recovery is just glossed over in the epilogue...sigh.

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Apart from that issue, this book was quite good. I enjoy this author's writing style. It is easy to read and has an excellent flow to it. It was well paced. It was told in a dual POV format. We get a few flashbacks to William's past with added some nice depth to the story. The plot was engaging. There were some twists and turns. Like I mentioned this one was less dark than book one (which is one of the reasons the OTT graphic scene seemed out of place). There wasn't any OW drama per se, but some of the flashbacks are about his sex life with OW. The couple from book one play heavy parts in this book, and it was nice catching up with them, and as I said above both the main characters were very likable (especially William).

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So yea, I totally would have gone with a higher rating if it hadn't been for that scene right near the end. I don't think it was necessary for it to be that graphic or for it to have gone so far. In any case, it is what it is, and I am still curious to see what happens in book two. Although after getting a peek at the end of this book, I am not sure my stomach will be able to handle it. (lol) description


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Profile Image for Bex (Beckie Bookworm).
2,530 reviews1,598 followers
January 10, 2019
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Tainted Reasoning (Dark Sovereignty #2) is the second instalment in this series and it does need to be read in order as it doesn't work as a standalone.
This was one story I was highly anticipating as I was so looking forward to experiencing William's story.
After getting to know him in the previous book I really couldn't wait to see how things were going to pan out for him and how the events surrounding his upbringing had shaped and warped his outlook as a person.
I was also incredibly intrigued to see how his autism and unique differences were addressed as a separate entity.
I myself have an autistic son so this is always a subject that is close to my heart and fascinates me immensely.
I wasn't disappointed with how the author has managed to address the whole subject sympathetically and with a great dash of realism and normality.
So, This wasn't quite as dark as its predecessor but when this did go there it was suitably bleak and chilling in its intensity.
I was gripped throughout this a really enjoyable and well-written read that I recommend highly.
I am looking forward to the next thrilling piece of the puzzle.
I voluntary reviewed an Arc of Tainted Reasoning (Dark Sovereignty #2)
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

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Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
Profile Image for Frances.
519 reviews13 followers
January 22, 2019
A Love for the Ages....

Wow! This story is amazing. I love this tale of a darkromance, and a love like no other. I love the meaning in this story, about how it's ok to be different. The storyline is good and the characters are amazing.

Tainted Reasoning, is about William and Tamara, and how they are there for each other, and how they are righting the wrongs of the past.They're trying to come to terms with the life that's in front of them, but It's not easy when tragedy and bad situation happens.

Anna, is a favorite of mine, and I love her work.
47 reviews
December 28, 2018
Tainted Reasoning, Dark Sovereignty Book 2 by Anna Edwards

I received the book for my honest review.

What can I say?! Anna pulls us deeper into what remains of the Secret Society. We learned that Nicolas was not like his evil father. Married Victoria and Nicolas and William slowly started righting the wrongs of the Secret Society. Victoria’s bestie, Tamara, was instantly drawn to William. William grew up being hidden from the world by his father as well as being told he brought shame to the family...being less than the wonderful human being he was deep inside. Just like Nicolas, William’s heart was good and that good would come out with Tamara.

William thought his rough, strong sexual desires and acts were evil. Oh baby, bring it on!!! Tamara discovered that rough, strong sex is what she desired as well. Tamara walks along side William and shows him he is not the only one who has Autism. Tamara volunteered at a school that caters to those with Autism and brings William to visit as a surprise. Seeing William open up and realize he is not a disgrace, was beautiful.

Viscount Hamilton is a *&%# bag. Talk about warped. Damn! I anxiously await Joanna and Theodore’s story. As evil as Hamilton is and all he has done, I have confidence that Anna will make sure he is properly castrated!!


Profile Image for Dawn Higgins.
907 reviews16 followers
January 10, 2019
I am loving this Deliciously dark romance by Anna ,and this second instalment did not disappoint at all, the second book in the series is about William the autistic brother of Nicholas that has been locked away his entire life as he was made to believe he was a monster.This was not as dark as the first book or so i thought until wham! Anna throws us back into the old society and all the depravities that went on in the first book.

Enter Tamara the best friend of Victoria and what a entrance she made, getting it in her head that Victoria was still being abused by Nicholas and that William was the hero of the hour, her fiesty character and how she interacted with William knowing of his past was just what he needed .Love how he is different and has no filters with what he says but that is part of who he is, tics, habits and all.William and Tamara get closer the more she spends time with him,she is just perfect for him as she knows how to handle him and the darkness they both have inside was a match made in heaven.

This book delves into the darkness that is Oakfield society as the Cavendish Brothers are trying to find a way to destroy this society plus trying to help women that have been abused in the past.The threat is still out there to try and bring the brothers down along with the women they love is still very real.

You are just going to fall for William as he is a lovable character with all the feels that you just want to smoother and hug him tight,but he is still a force to be reckoned with when put in the position where he needs to protect what is his,and Tamara is his make no mistake.

This was a fabulous dark read with plenty of suspense,tragedy,hot rough dirty sex and romance that keeps you glued to this story,can't wait for the last book to see where this will take us with Theo and Joanna the conclusion.Five Huge Dark Dirty Stars.
437 reviews6 followers
February 20, 2019
William, William, William.

He holds such a special place in my heart. He isn't a monster, he isn't a freak. Yes he can be dark and mysterious. However, he just needs to love and be loved.

Along comes Tamara, a firery and loyal friend of Victorias. She is here to save her from the monster she was forced to marry.

Little did Tamara know what she would stubble upon. The secrets, the lies and the decept that would cost her dearly.

This is a brilliant read and a great follow on from A Legacy of Succession. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Sheena.
988 reviews26 followers
January 22, 2019
Exciting and compulsive read..

This is the second in the dark sovereignty series and focuses on William the second son of the now deceased Duke of Oakfield... from the very start of this story it is clear the darkness from the first instalment continues... William is a wonderfully candid and complex character who is prone to directness and plain speaking due in no small part to his autistic nature...

The author has sensitively described the strengths and weaknesses of William and his disability creating a charming, strong and, at times, conflicted character who agonises over the rights and wrongs of his desires and needs....Tamara is a smart, young lawyer who becomes embroiled in the world of William and his brother, Nicholas, through her best friend, Victoria... I love the relationships between all the characters: the deep affection between the two brother’s, the bond of friendship between Tamara and Victoria, and the evolving romance between William and Tamara...The interactions between them all are filled with loyalty, humour and love....and whilst this is William and Tamara’s story, I was thrilled that Nicholas and Victoria, the stars of the first book, are also featured...

This is a suspense filled, fast paced story with unexpected plot developments, which all add up to an exciting and compulsive read... I received an advanced copy of this book from the author.
Profile Image for Teresa Lara.
3,483 reviews53 followers
December 23, 2018
Love this very emotional beautiful broken intense loving series.Loved William and Tamaras amazing love stiry.Si look forward To Theo and Joanna
Profile Image for J.L. Leslie.
Author 60 books689 followers
January 9, 2019
It's no secret that I'm a fan of Anna Edwards and book one in this series, Legacy of Succession, is one of my favorites of hers, so I could not wait to read William's story! He is the brother of Nicholas from book one, and he's been hidden away his entire life, a monster, a disappointment, all because he's autistic. Yes, he's different, but he's not a monster. He learned about life from a monster, his father, and he views it differently than everyone else, but in walks Tamara, who changes everything for him. She's Victoria's best friend and she's determined to find out exactly what's going on in this society that her friend is now married into. I was a fan of William in Legacy of Succession and how he had zero filter. He's very outspoken and just says whatever comes to his mind - a part of his autism. The way his character is written is very realistic - to the symptoms of his autism and his tics, showing us readers how someone on the spectrum is effected and how they deal with their tics, outbursts, and habits. Tamara is the perfect woman for William. She knows how to handle him and how to take him with all his idiosyncrasies. She doesn't want him to change, but loves him just the way he is. Tainted Reasoning delves further into the darkness that is the Oakfield Society as the Cavendish brothers continue on their quest to destroy it. More secrets are revealed and new characters are brought in as the series continues! I cannot wait for book three, which is the conclusion! As always, great work Anna Edwards! You left me breathless with this one! Loved it! I also loved how some familiar names were brought in from another of my favorite series of yours! Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Susan Freestone.
132 reviews33 followers
January 22, 2019
WOW !!! Anna I thought  Legacy of Succession the first book was brillant but this one blew it away.  I don't know where to begin with this review this book had it all darkness, twisted, suspense, evil, tragic horrific, violence, pain, love, secrets, lies.
I went on a rollercoaster of emotions while reading this it had me on the edge of my seat!
I absolutely LOVED IT.  I was pulled in from the start and couldn't put it down it definitely fed my love for dark books.

This book is where we get to know William he thinks he is a monster, (I thought he was adorable) but when he meets Tamara Bennet Victoria's friend they have a undeniable attraction to each other but best of all Tamara shows William how much she wants and needs the monster!!

I have to say how well this story is written and how much I can't wait for A father's Insistence book 3
And Anna you really can write a dark story i am hoping you will write more.

I highly recommend this book and Author.
Profile Image for Ahima Booklover.
947 reviews4 followers
January 27, 2019
Jeez jeez jeez
And holy **swear words over swear words**

The sequel to legacy of succession started with a bloody firework of extraordinary mind work. Meet William again, Nicholas brother and Victoria's brother in law. He is different, sees the world much clearer and in different facettes at the same time. And he sees Tamara, Victoria's childhood friend with very different eyes than every single other woman ever before. Fighting the legacy of their fathers and righting the wrong that is established in their community... They have a long way to go and cruel things to do.
I almost missed this book with all the drama going on in my life. I waited so impatient for the follow up to Legacy of succession and felt fear I wouldn't do that book justice reading it in my current state of mind. But!!!! Anna Edwards made magic again. I just devoured the story and nothing else mattered to me Ina short frame of time. This story is just the right mix of ancient tradition, modern suburban fairy tale and dark souls, that makes it stand out and memorable and to a heart hugger for me.
Profile Image for Christi Fowler.
1,638 reviews17 followers
January 28, 2019
Genre: Romance - Dark
Standalone: Yes-ish
Part of a Series: Yes Book 2 of the Dark Sovereignty series. The story of the couple ends, the overarching story does not
POV: William and Tamara
Steam Level: Quite Hot at times - Also rough (consensual) which people have issues with
5/5

This is the second book in the Dark Sovereignty series but the first one I've read. I was a little worried that I wouldn't know what was going on but Anna Edwards did an excellent job catching me (the new reader) up while not backtracking too much into the previous story (I assume). While Tainted Reasoning deals with some dark themes it's very well written and not too graphic - definitely will push some people's boundaries. I also really liked Anna Edwards portrayal of William and his Autism.

I received an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Paula D.
1,580 reviews55 followers
January 16, 2019
I love dark romances and this one is twisted as can be and I enjoyed every page. William meets Tamara Victoria’s best friend and chemistry happens at first sight. But William is autistic and thinks he’s a monster. Will Tamara be the light to Williams darkness or will she love his darkness as much as him? Definitely a page turner and intense read. I can’t wait to read the next book to the series. Even though this is a stand-alone you end up wanting more! 5/5 stars
Profile Image for Ola Adamska.
2,881 reviews26 followers
January 10, 2019
This Series cant be read as standalone so First five in book 1. Each book is about diffrent couple but The story has its continiuity.
I was so excited to read this book! As William is A character that Has Autism and has some Special needs and his own quircks. But i can guarantee that calling for him is so Easy that you would be shocked. Especially when everything There was crafted in so real way that it left me speachless!
Tamara os Victoria's bff. She wants to rescue Her from Her current Life well each of us would and I liked that Tamara was getting There slowly with no idea if that was true or not.
This story is not as DARK as boook one but it still is dark just not that much for sure. There can be some triggers. There are also some shocking truths to be revealed that made me read The part again as I had not belived it! But later it made so much sense!
I lived that story and The way of opening for each other it showed!
Profile Image for Louise H's Book Thoughts.
2,039 reviews317 followers
April 11, 2024
I read this in one sitting, and it's not a short book

I enjoyed this even more than Legacy of Succession. I'm not sure if it's because that book took me to the very edge of believable fiction, or something else, but there we have it. I loved William and, for most of the time, Tamara. They were interesting, likeable and easy to connect to, the passion and chemistry between them was very believable. There was only one occasion where Tamara forgave someone far too easily, but other than that there was nothing I would change about the plot or the main characters.

There are some very dark scenes scattered throughout the story, some involving the main characters and some not. Those parts are really well balanced with lighter moments and every day stuff, so that this satisfied my love of darkness without being too overwhelming.

William was not an antihero so much as a man who cared but whose sexual cravings were on the darker side. Be prepared for a wonderful scene of consensual non-consent that IMO was super spicy and really well written. In fact the whole book is well written, the story and dialogue flows smoothly. I always knew whose view I was following, who was speaking, where in the story and timeline I was etc.

Not only am I happy to recommend this but the story built up to a third book, which will feature Theo (Victoria's brother from book 1) which I will most certainly be reading.
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
4,020 reviews432 followers
January 22, 2019
Legacy of Succession must be read before reading Tainted Reasoning.

We now get Williams story. I was so looking forward to reading more about William. I certainly wasn’t disappointed.
He’s a complex character with autism. Tamara is Victoria’s friend. When she gets sucked into their world everything changes. Tamara and William are perfect for each other.

Not as dark as book one but still a great read with plenty of twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat. Can’t wait to read more from this author.
Profile Image for Julia Butterfield - Stevens.
906 reviews9 followers
January 21, 2019
Tainted Reasoning is a fantastic follow-up to Legacy of Succession. There I was thinking it wasn't quite as dark and twisted as the first book, then bam, Anna Edwards "smacks you in the face" with the depraved remains of the old society and she doesn't hold back!

I've been hooked to these pages and I loved William and all his quirks and Tamara who was stronger and a little bit different than I thought she'd be, in a very good way.

William has been locked away his whole life for being different, broken, wired wrongly. In reality, he has autism, he is highly intelligent but has if you like, no filter. He's honest and says what he sees and thinks no matter how inappropriate. He's also loveable and loyal to his beloved brother Nicholas, but believes himself a monster. He has a dark side he's afraid to let out now he's finally free to explore the world. My heart broke for this beautiful man and what he was taught was normal by his evil father and his associates. His struggles were so realistically written, but with Tamara he starts to see himself from a different point of view. Tamara is a newly qualified lawyer and best friend of Victoria but when she discovers what Victoria has been through at the cruel hands of The Oakfield Society, she is determined to help her and the brothers destroy the old rules and rulers for good.

This book is full of suspense, tension and emotion as well as sensitivity and steamy, twisted hotness. It is also most definitely on the dark side, so if that's what you love, come on in, you will not be disappointed! (but start with book 1) 5 highly recommended dark stars
Profile Image for Jackie.
363 reviews5 followers
January 21, 2019
This is the second book in this series and Omg Anna Edwards I think you have out done yourself. It's full of a bit of everything and I loved it. This book is about William and his struggles with life and living with his thoughts that he is dark. Tamara has entered his life at just the right time , they are good for each other but just when you think things are going well bang what with twists and turns you don't see coming its definitely one to read
Profile Image for Wall to Wall Bookshelves.
570 reviews4 followers
January 10, 2019
Another fantastic read in the Dark Sovereignty series by Anna Edwards.

Tamara grew up with Victoria Hamilton, they were more like sisters than friends, they were that close. When Victoria gets taken, Tamara assumes that Nicholas is hurting her. She goes to Oakfield to see for herself. That's where she meets the quirky and handsome William and is asked to help make the society pay for what it has done.

William has lived most of his life locked away from society in fear of embarrassing his father with his quirks and tics. He believes he has a monster inside of him, that he was born that way. When he meets Tamara, hes scared that the monster will hurt her. Can he keep his monster locked away and keep her safe?

I've been eagerly awaiting William and Tamara's story. I loved every word that I read. I especially loved William's outspokenness and Tamara's ability to calm him. This dark romance is mixed full of suspense, dark desires and evil men but with added love, loyalty and the need to right the wrongs of the Society.

I'm looking forward to the final part of this series to see how it concludes.
Profile Image for Leah Dynes.
1,038 reviews11 followers
January 22, 2019
This story was a little less dark than the first in the series, but still as good. William is learning how to deal with life in the outside world, and trying to prove to himself that his Autism does not define him. Tamara is helping Victoria and making sure she’s actually happy with her life, and then jumps on board to help the members of the society to be taken down.

I enjoyed watching William and Tamara’s relationship develop through this book, and enjoyed watching a relationship blossom with a different obstacle to overcome than romance books usually have. I’d recommend this book.
Profile Image for Julia Gerard.
694 reviews9 followers
January 9, 2019
William was part of his Fathers downfall in Legacy of Succession and now he's back with is story. He's always been in the dark, behind the scenes, hidden from the world An embarrassment to his father, who saw him as damaged, a freak. But William was none of that! He suffered from Autism, that was never treated, also probably never diagnosed. Tamara a lawyer and friend doesn't care, she likes William as he is! They seem to help each other, in the pursuit of eliminating the secret society. There is a lot of discovery, danger and crime a foot in this story! A definite must read!
Profile Image for Yoneidis.
2,149 reviews12 followers
March 22, 2020
After Willian killed his father, his brother Nicholas becomes the Duke of Oakfield and together they begin to hunt down all those members of the society who have dedicated themselves and continue to harm women. Tamara, Victoria’s friend, is a lawyer and joins the fight. She and William have sex, but before finishing, William strangles Tamara. They way his father educated him about sex with women has left him with a taste for rough sex.
One of the members of the society who wants to see finished is Victoria’s father, but he has hidden. They want to rescue the girl who bought they gave he gave Victoria to Nicholas.

“Too many people have been hurt, killed, or maimed by this society since its inception. I’m the ruler of it now, and I’ll not rest until it’s cleaned of all those who would seek to destroy a human life for power, monetary gain, or simply for sexual gratification. That is the world my father created. People who treated women like slaves. They abused them to the point they were unrecognizable as a human and then put a bullet in their heads. I couldn’t save Amelia, but I will prevent this from happening again in my name. The Duke of Oakfield will no longer be synonymous with evil. He will be a loving husband, father, and ruler of a society helping to empower women.”

William Cavendish is kissing me! I think the world is tilting on its axis, and everything is becoming slightly surreal. I’ve only known him for just over twenty-four hours, but I already know in my heart I’m his. “You don’t like me telling you that?” A line of worry creases William’s forehead. “Tamara, I thought you’d have learned by now I say what I think, and that’s both in and out of the bedroom. Around everyone else, I have to control it as much as I can, but here with you, I’m afraid, you’re going to get everything.” He rises to his feet and comes to stand directly in front of me. Grabbing the waistband of my jeans, he pulls me to him and grinds his hips into my waist. “Every dirty word… every commanding need. You will get it all from me. Say now if you want me to stop.”

“I’ve also come to realize it’s not my autism causing the darkness within me–it’s the result of my upbringing, and my father’s influence. However, it’s also something a part of me enjoys. The difference is now I can control it, and I know I won’t murder or destroy a woman just because I can. As a couple, we are a contradiction in terms. Sometimes she’s bossy and looks after me, and sometimes it’s the other way around. But here in the bedroom, I’m always in control, and I couldn’t give a fuck if anyone says I’m weak because I let her rule me elsewhere. You wanted the monster in me, Tamara, and now you’ve got him because he’s fallen in love with you.”
Profile Image for Up All Night With Books.
1,160 reviews44 followers
January 22, 2019
5 Stars
Review by Amy W.
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog


"Monsters don't fall in love. They exist only to destroy."

I absolutely loved Legacy of Succession and was super excited to be asked to read book two in the Dark Sovereignty series, Tainted Reasoning. This world and the characters are ones that draw you in. You just need to know what's going to happen next.

"You think your mind is dark. Well, my blood is jet black. If you're a monster, then I'm the devil's spawn."

William Cavendish has been hidden away from the world, made to believe he is a monster by his father. When the vile man set his sights on his brother, Nicholas, William did what he needed to do to save the only person to ever care about him. Now that he is free, he struggles to adjust to the world around him.

"Too late, this monster's never retreating now. It's all about claiming what's his.You're. Mine. Forever."

Tamara Bennet has heard horrible things about what happens to the women at the hands of a Cavendish. Determined to save her friend Victoria from such a disastrous fate, she shows up at the Cavendish's doorstep. Only once she arrives she sees things are not what they seem and as she works with Victoria and the Cavendish brothers, she learns that some secrets can be deadly.

"Monsters together."
"Forever."


OMG!! I love William! He was used and abused by his father, molded to be a monster and to do monstrous things. But when it came down to what is right and wrong, William followed through with what he believed. And Tamara, that woman is a spitfire. She doesn't take shit from no one. I felt so bad for her when she learned the truth of things. But she didn't let it bring her down, she let it fuel her determination.

I love these characters and I can't wait to read about Theo and Jo. I have a feeling their book is going to be a rollercoaster of a ride.

**ARC provided for an honest review**
Profile Image for Jennifer - You Can't Resista Dirty Book .
461 reviews14 followers
January 22, 2019
It turns out Monsters can fall in love! A powerful, deadly, dark romance!

Tainted Reasoning is book two in the Dark Sovereignty series and in here we follow the story of the younger Cavendish brother, William.
Hidden away from society his whole life, William knows he is different from other people. He keeps to himself mainly as he has no experience dealing with the outside world and has no idea how to navigate regular everyday situations that would potentially seem mundane to many people. Although he is incredibly smart and he puts these talents to use now to rid the world of the evil his family have perpetrated for centuries.
The cruel and vile things that his father did to him in his past has shaped the man he has become. With a penchant for the darker tastes in his sexual appetite, William has on occasion even frightened himself and therefore only puts himself in situations were he knows he will not lose control of his inner monster. However, fate has other plans and he may not be able to keep his monster in check much longer.
Tamara Bennett is determined to "save" her best friend from what she perceives as Victoria being trapped and owned by Nicholas, so it is such as shock to her system to learn that this is not the case and the couple are very much in love. Fiery and feisty, Tamara is ready to tear the English countryside apart for her friend, what she was not counting on was the brooding, sexy devilishly delicious man with no brain to mouth filter.
Instant sparks fly between the two, but they keep the chemistry in check for the sake of Victoria and Nicholas, however inhibitions are lowered and soon the chemical reaction ignites and nothing can put a stop to it.
If you love a good dark romance with a hint of mystery and intrigue then look no further, the are so bombs dropped in this story that you will not see coming. Happy reading!
Profile Image for Ann Marie.
213 reviews14 followers
January 23, 2019
BOOK TWO

So yeah, again I didn’t realize I was getting book two of a series-duh me.

However I wasn’t lost in this story, William, the younger brother with autism. His character is a sweet one with his “quirks” he gets distraught during moments of high anxiety, however as the story progresses William grows and learns that his autism doesn’t make him a bad person like his father had him believing. He is truly an honest man, kind soul with a heart of gold and he is smart and funny is his own way.

Nicholas is the older brother who looks out for William and would protect him till his death if need be. Growing up they endured so many unnatural things- unnatural being things that normal society wouldn’t indulge in nor would they even dream of doing or teaching their children. Their father trained them, trained them to not respect woman to own them and control them. Until Victoria. Victoria and Nicholas are in love and the love he feels for her and the need to protect her and not her is greater the what his father tried to make him believe.

Tamara is Victoria’s best friend growing up they were as close as sisters. The bond they share is unbreakable. As the storyline progressed I was engrossed in what would happen next. I did not like the things that happened to the women in this story or the way in which they treated women. However it was the necessary evil in this truly twisted tail of the secret society that needs to be brought to it’s knees. I am glad that these brothers were/are able to realize that women are not things to be owned, used and abused to their will. They are and will be the heroes that save them.

If you’re looking for a twisted read, are able to handle some pretty dark stuff then I recommend this read to you. I would say this story has some triggers for people.

Get lost in a book tonight :)
Profile Image for Badh.
3,311 reviews66 followers
January 22, 2019
This is an intense middle book of this trilogy. It doesn't really let up off the pace of the last book, which is really nice. The last book had so much intensity, so keeping that really ties the books together well. But for all that pace and all that intensity, there are plenty of places where we can catch our breath so we aren't overwhelmed.

Tamara was raised with Victoria, and Victoria was given to Oakfield by her father, Tamara was furious, especially after she heard whatever Victoria told her. So, she's going to go rescue Victoria from the evil clutches of Nicholas. Their first meeting ends up with Nicholas needing ice on his genitals, so you know that she is fierce and protective.

William is autistic and has spent his life being hidden away by his father. Now that he's gone, his brother Nicholas makes sure that William has all the freedom he wants. But he's worried that he's a monster, especially since he spent his entire life being told that he was wrong by his father. But once he sees Tamara, all bets are off.

There are a lot of interesting things happening in this one, and I can't wait to see how the events in this one set up for the next book. It's going to be a doozy, I think. And some of the things in this one made me gasp out loud.

I really like Tamara. She really is just super fierce in protecting those whom she loves. She will go straight to the mat for them. I like seeing a hero, even one who may be somewhat of an anti-hero, who is autistic, because there just aren't enough stories with autistic heroes in them, and with how common it is becoming, it's something really important to know.
Profile Image for Ann (Literary Lust).
1,620 reviews25 followers
January 23, 2019
Tainted Reasoning is the second book in the Dark Sovereignty series and as a rule I do try to read books in series order. However I didn't with this book, and actually I didn't feel I was missing too much. I would certainly be nice to find out the background to some of the story line and I will go back and do this, but having not read book one beforehand I didn't feel it spoiled my enjoyment of this book.

I loved that the author includes a character on the autistic spectrum. It's a huge spectrum and I know due to having family members on this spectrum myself that each individual is different, but it was great to raise awareness and show the amazing person that William can be. I did appreciate the author's notes that William's dark side is due to his upbringing and not his diagnosis. I believe this was important to highlight.

The story was really good. I enjoyed the relationship between William and Tamara - watching it build and witnessing them both being able to be themselves without any judgement. I loved the twists in the story that had me sitting on the edge of my seat and unable to put my kindle down until I discovered what was happening and the outcome of the actions. I am looking forward to going back and reading book one and also seeing what happens in the next book.
Profile Image for Pam.
962 reviews2 followers
January 23, 2019
Definitely a dark romance and that was mentioned in the blurb prior to reading. This story followed William and Tamara. Nicholas's brother and Victoria's best friend from Legacy of Succession.

This book had a Regency romance feel against a present day time period. I was seriously having a hard time reconciling this was present day until obvious items were mentioned throughout the story. That gave the story a different feel to me. Maybe it was just the seriously backwards way women were treated by these men though.

The second thing I thought was very interesting was how the hero was highlighted in his autistic nature. The author took several opportunities to bring this to the forefront and
Talk about it, but also show where he could have a regular life with an hot love interest.

There were some extreme circumstances and pretty dark scenes in the story, so beware if you have triggers. In the end it finishes with a bit of an HEA, but revelations and a bit of a cliffy so we can see more of one villain in later books in the series. I felt there were some abrupt changes in sections that could have flowed a bit better but still a pretty good story. 3.5 stars for me.
Profile Image for Hanan .
2,027 reviews20 followers
December 30, 2018
Tainted is a perfect dark romance.
A great mix of suspense,depravation,evil and a whole lot of dirtiness.
What a fantastic job Ms. Edwards did in blending just the right amount of everything needed for an outstanding dark story!
This is Williams story. I was so fascinated by him from the previous book and wanted to know his backstory.
And wow was it mind blowing!
William has to come to terms with his dark needs and he also needs to differentiate bewtween his desires and his Autism. His journey and discoveries are amazing to see.
Tamara is such an awesome young lady. How strong and determined she is is a thing to behold.
Her compassion is heartwarming. Especially when it comes to William.
She helps him so much in the discovery of himself and he in return believes in her strength and her will to overcome her own struggles. They are the perfect match to each other.
I loved this story so much not only for the dark romance aspect of it. But also that special added ingredient that Ms. Edwards intertwines into the story.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews162 followers
January 19, 2019
This book simply blew me away. Offering a remarkable, unique hero, a beautiful romance and an all around gripping story. I admire authors that take chances with their characters. Real people came in all shapes, sizes and skin colors. They are perfect in their imperfections and everyone deserves to have the life the want, happiness and love. William is a character that stole my breath and touched my heart. I simply fell in love with him and was so happy that fate brought him and Tamara together. They made an amazing couple. There is lots of drama, emotional tension and shocking twists. I will say that this book is a dark romance so be aware there is content that is objectionable to some readers and some content that could be triggers for others, so do your research and think about it before reading this book. I'm now eagerly awaiting book 3. This is my forthright, freely posted review.
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