What do you think?
Rate this book
The Oligarchs #2
Beautiful Trouble
He strips away every pretty lie.
Darren Servant is an arrogant monster with gorgeous eyes and a sharp tongue.
He’s wealthy, powerful, ruthless, and committed to doing anything for his family.
And I’m his new plaything.
He wants to pull me into darkness, tear away my armor, and leave me bereft and naked.
But I’m nobody’s pawn. I’ll fight back, kicking and screaming.
Only he likes the struggle, and I love his rough hands and rougher lips.
Escape isn’t an option.
But submission?
Together we’ll drown this world in blood and punishment.
This is a dark and steamy book. Welcome to the Oligarchs.
Darren Servant is an arrogant monster with gorgeous eyes and a sharp tongue.
He’s wealthy, powerful, ruthless, and committed to doing anything for his family.
And I’m his new plaything.
He wants to pull me into darkness, tear away my armor, and leave me bereft and naked.
But I’m nobody’s pawn. I’ll fight back, kicking and screaming.
Only he likes the struggle, and I love his rough hands and rougher lips.
Escape isn’t an option.
But submission?
Together we’ll drown this world in blood and punishment.
This is a dark and steamy book. Welcome to the Oligarchs.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 20, 2021
About the author
B.B. Hamel
203 books2,581 followersI'm a long time reader, writer, and lover of Romance! Writing is my dream and my passion, and I want to share my stories with you.
I live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and two dogs.
Website: http://www.bbhamel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bbhamelwriter
Check out my mailing list for updates, giveaways, and more! http://bbhamel.com/signup
I live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and two dogs.
Website: http://www.bbhamel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bbhamelwriter
Check out my mailing list for updates, giveaways, and more! http://bbhamel.com/signup
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
September 20, 2021
This is the second book in this series but it can easily be read as a standalone. Darren kidnaps Winter and plans on using her as a pawn in a war between himself and another Oligarch. Darren falls hard for Winter and then he makes a deal with her to become his wife. Can Winter get Darren to see the truth about what happened to his brother and will they find their HEA? Fast-paced read with great characters lots of drama, emotion and steam. Entertaining read. I really liked it.
May 31, 2022
DNF for now at 16%
It hasn't captured me the way the first book in the series did, and my TBR list is tooooo long to be struggling through books, so backburner for now with a possible revisit in the future.
It hasn't captured me the way the first book in the series did, and my TBR list is tooooo long to be struggling through books, so backburner for now with a possible revisit in the future.
September 20, 2021
Darren & Winter’s Enemies-To-Lovers Story Has Plenty Of Banter & Steam Amidst His Dangerous Pursuit Of Roman! Darren Is Determined To Take His Enemy Down, But Unlike The Other Oligarchs, It Isn’t A Game To Him. Bent On Revenge, He Will Stop At Nothing, & Winter Will Be His Tool. Don’t Forget To Download The Free Bonus Epilogue Via The Link At The Back Of The Book!
ABOUT THE OLIGARCHS SERIES:
The world’s most exclusive club includes some of the most feared men and women on earth. They are the oligarchs. The mafias, the cartels, the bratva – you name it – they all bow to the likes of them. The oligarchs are drowning in wealth. That in combination with the boredom that plagues them has led to a corrupted view of the value of human life. As a result, they have evolved such that now they operate like gods on earth. Their money buys them whatever they want. So far removed from society-imposed consequences, all that is left to hold them in check is the high-powered game that they play amongst themselves.
Like puppet masters, the oligarchs use the various criminal underground groups to orchestrate their desired outcomes. They enjoy the back and forth and the power struggle that results from their interferences. It is a zero-sum game. You take a little here and there, upsetting the balance of power. But they have rules, too. Importantly, oligarchs aren’t allowed to make a direct move against one another; that is what their proxies are for. They can align themselves with the Irish mafia, for instance, to indirectly attack another oligarch via the bratva he helps fund, but only as long as it doesn’t create too much chaos. They must be measured (which is of course a relative term).
No oligarch can assume too much power without the others eventually deciding to restore the balance. Thus the game goes, repeating the cycle, but it always balances out in the end because there are rules that the members abide by, expectations they understand of one another. There are consequences if they step out of line. While they might fight with guns via their proxies, that isn’t how business is conducted with one another. They require a different set of skills to operate amongst their peers. Politics, alliances, and the ability to sway opinions are how they win the game from within. A direct attack on another oligarch, however, will provoke a bloody reaction from the group. Stepping that far out of line, upsetting the balance of power, is not tolerated. If an oligarch continues the course, causing too much chaos, sooner or later the other players – the other oligarchs – will decide to act against you.
FROM PERFECT MONSTER, BOOK 1:
The story opens during the winter in Sea Isle, New Jersey.
Cassie Ward, about twenty-one, left her father’s Boston home and moved to Sea Isle, New Jersey three years ago. Sea Isle was a fresh start for her, a chance for a quiet life. She bicycles around town and works at various bars to support herself. She hasn’t seriously considered dating since then. Her best friend, co-worker, and neighbor – Winter – encourages her to get out there and have some fun, but she doesn’t know anything about the incident. The car phobia, the scar, the words that damaged her self-esteem … Cassie keeps those things close to the vest.
Roman Lenkov, thirty-eight, belongs to the world’s most exclusive club: the oligarchs. He assumed his position of leadership when his father was gunned down at his cousin’s wedding three years ago. Oisin MacKenna, head of the MacKennas, an Irish mafia organization that is moving into the South, killed his father, and Roman won’t rest until he gets revenge. Darren Servant, another oligarch, is backing up the MacKennas, hiding Oisin and making Roman’s efforts fruitless. But Roman has a plan. It will be messy, but it doesn’t matter anymore. Roman won’t just roll over and allow the assassination to go unpunished. Revenge will be his, even if Roman’s father was a monster.
When Cassie works a party full of powerful and dangerous men, an accident turns the ire of one such man against her. Another man, whose powerful presence seems to command the entire room, comes to her rescue. But Cassie’s troubles don’t end there. When she becomes a witness to a crime, a target is on her back. Her knight in shining armor, Roman, comes to her rescue again, promising to keep her safe. But as things begin to unravel, Cassie soon finds herself whisked away into Roman’s dark and dangerous world.
IN THIS BOOK:
This story opens outside of South Bend, Indiana, immediately following the close of book one.
Winter Kresswell, roughly twenty-four, has a lot in common with her best friend, Cassie. Winter, too, has a past that she hopes to keep secret. She was raised in upstate New York in a life of luxury, but she was not surrounded by love. Following her parents’ split, she was left with a father that was iconic in the world of finance, but who unfortunately saw Winter as liability. He wasn’t there when she needed him most, so at eighteen she decided to leave her old life behind, changing her name from Spring Kane and adopting a new identity. She has lived a quiet life in Sea Isle, New Jersey since before Cassie arrived three years ago. They had worked together, waitressing at various venues around town, and were neighbors as well until Roman Lenkov whisked Cassie away. Cassie seemed to have gotten her happily ever after in that unlikely match with Roman, but it put Winter in the crosshairs of Darren Servant, another dangerous oligarch. Darren was involved in a treacherous war with Roman, and he used Winter for her connection to Cassie. Winter shouldn’t have turned down Roman’s protection when she left their beach house on foot, but that was a lesson she learned too late. Darren, it seemed, was not through with her yet.
Darren Servant, roughly thirty-three, is quiet but ruthless and has been after Roman for years. Darren lost the MacKennas to Roman once Cassie’s father was installed as their new leader, but he still has the Ukranians, led by Hadeon Patrenko, working with him, and he has Roman on the defensive. To the other oligarchs, the battles are nothing more than an expensive game to quell their boredom, but for Darren it means so much more. He has his sights set on taking Roman down, but even that won’t be enough. Roman must die. Winter had proven useful in the past, and taking her will help to keep Roman in check. Roman might be accustomed to death, but his new wife won’t want anything happening to her best friend. And when Darren learns that Winter’s father is Jason Kane, he sees other ways in which the young woman could be useful.
Darren has been working in the background to enlist support from the oligarchs for his activities, and Roman’s recent gains have helped Darren’s cause. Old Bern, Maeve, and Kaspar had given Roman some time to avenge his father’s death, and they will likewise grant Darren a reprieve. Darren wants to see change come to the oligarchs. The old guard wastes their power on games when they could be using it for the general good, influencing politics and the like. Accusing Roman of representing the worst of them gets Darren the time he needs. For Darren, taking down Roman is not so much about power. It is about revenge, and Darren had crossed an invisible line when he destroyed Roman’s bunker. With Winter living under his roof, however, he knows Roman won’t strike his family.
For Darren, family is everything. As the head of his family, his entire focus is their safety. His mother, Charleigh, is quite the character, but she agrees that they should attempt to make his sisters’ lives as normal as possible. Erin is quiet and always glued to her phone. She is just two years younger than Darren. Penny is seven years younger than Darren. At about twenty-six, she seems the most untouched by her unusual upbringing even though she can rarely leave her home. Anthony, twenty-three, is charismatic and the life of the party. He works closely with Darren, participating in battle. Liv passed away ten years ago. She had been four years younger than Darren, and she had been the glue that held the family together. Her loss was deeply felt, but nobody could ever bring themselves to talk about it. That was the Servant way. The hole she left behind in their family was cancerous, impacting each family member in a unique way. Another family incident occurred thirteen years ago; it is seared Darren’s consciousness and infects his decision-making.
When Darren brings Winter to his home outside of South Bend, he gives her a list of rules to follow. Winter, though, is naturally feisty and challenges him every chance she gets. They have a battle of wills as he works to take down Roman, and she strives for her freedom. Their back and forth soon leads to some rather unwanted chemistry, and eventually their dynamics begin to change. Darren had promised Winter her freedom once she had served her purpose, but he soon develops other plans. The pair battle it out while the mysterious Servant family history unfolds. But as they grow closer, Winter’s relationship with Cassie proves to be more of a problem. The couple eventually earns a happy for now ending, but the series is clearly unfinished. The danger remains. The story closes in the fall. It appears Kaspar and Penny’s story will follow in book three.
Don’t forget to download the free bonus epilogue via the link at the back of the book.
Darren and Winter’s story is a page turner. There are a number of characters at play, and some of their stories overlap. Darren played the bad guy in Roman’s story, and it is sometimes difficult to reconcile that man with the family-focused hero in this book. At home and surrounded by his family, Darren seems somewhat normal. But he can flip at any moment, changing into a ruthless and bloodthirsty avenger, protector of his family. The contrast is striking. He is devoted to his family and their safety. It is that love, though, in addition to his position as an oligarch, that fuels his dark side. He learned the hard way that family can be the source of pain. He isn’t the only Servant to be feared, though. Most of them have an evil side.
Roman’s character is likewise sometimes difficult to reconcile here. He had been bent on avenging his father’s death, and Darren had stood in his way. Their battle had been bloody in book one, but it was because Darren had inserted himself in the fight. Roman knew he would be knocked down a rung or two at the end, but he played the game anyway because his father’s murder could not go unanswered. So for Darren to complain about Roman’s power seems a little whiney, since he forced Roman to act. And Darren had crossed some clear lines that the oligarchs were not to cross, so it could also be said that Darren needed to be taken down a notch. It takes a little time to adjust to the different viewpoint.
A few issues merit mention. There are a couple of references to Roman (by Penny) that seem to be a mistake. It caused me to read an reread, but I believe they were meant to reference Darren instead. Also, there is supposed to be a seven year difference between Darren and Penny, but Kaspar is both three years younger than Darren and three years older than Penny, which equals six, not seven. Here, Roman is said to be somewhat close in age to Darren, which makes sense for the story, but from the last book we see there is roughly a five year difference. When younger, that would have been a big difference in age. Finally, there are a number of references to ten years ago that mistakenly reference the wrong family tragedy. The tragedy in question took place thirteen years ago, not ten. These points might cause a little confusion while reading, so just be aware of them if you read an uncorrected copy.
Darren and Winter’s enemies-to-lovers story has plenty of banter and steam amidst his dangerous pursuit of Roman. Darren is determined to take his enemy down, but unlike the other oligarchs, it isn’t a game to him. Bent on revenge, he will stop at nothing, and Winter will be his tool. The story is nicely written. It is plot-driven and complex. It is written in first person. The POV alternates between Darren and Winter, with a chapter each in Chika’s and Anthony’s POVs, and two in Penny’s POV. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
ABOUT THE OLIGARCHS SERIES:
The world’s most exclusive club includes some of the most feared men and women on earth. They are the oligarchs. The mafias, the cartels, the bratva – you name it – they all bow to the likes of them. The oligarchs are drowning in wealth. That in combination with the boredom that plagues them has led to a corrupted view of the value of human life. As a result, they have evolved such that now they operate like gods on earth. Their money buys them whatever they want. So far removed from society-imposed consequences, all that is left to hold them in check is the high-powered game that they play amongst themselves.
Like puppet masters, the oligarchs use the various criminal underground groups to orchestrate their desired outcomes. They enjoy the back and forth and the power struggle that results from their interferences. It is a zero-sum game. You take a little here and there, upsetting the balance of power. But they have rules, too. Importantly, oligarchs aren’t allowed to make a direct move against one another; that is what their proxies are for. They can align themselves with the Irish mafia, for instance, to indirectly attack another oligarch via the bratva he helps fund, but only as long as it doesn’t create too much chaos. They must be measured (which is of course a relative term).
No oligarch can assume too much power without the others eventually deciding to restore the balance. Thus the game goes, repeating the cycle, but it always balances out in the end because there are rules that the members abide by, expectations they understand of one another. There are consequences if they step out of line. While they might fight with guns via their proxies, that isn’t how business is conducted with one another. They require a different set of skills to operate amongst their peers. Politics, alliances, and the ability to sway opinions are how they win the game from within. A direct attack on another oligarch, however, will provoke a bloody reaction from the group. Stepping that far out of line, upsetting the balance of power, is not tolerated. If an oligarch continues the course, causing too much chaos, sooner or later the other players – the other oligarchs – will decide to act against you.
FROM PERFECT MONSTER, BOOK 1:
The story opens during the winter in Sea Isle, New Jersey.
Cassie Ward, about twenty-one, left her father’s Boston home and moved to Sea Isle, New Jersey three years ago. Sea Isle was a fresh start for her, a chance for a quiet life. She bicycles around town and works at various bars to support herself. She hasn’t seriously considered dating since then. Her best friend, co-worker, and neighbor – Winter – encourages her to get out there and have some fun, but she doesn’t know anything about the incident. The car phobia, the scar, the words that damaged her self-esteem … Cassie keeps those things close to the vest.
Roman Lenkov, thirty-eight, belongs to the world’s most exclusive club: the oligarchs. He assumed his position of leadership when his father was gunned down at his cousin’s wedding three years ago. Oisin MacKenna, head of the MacKennas, an Irish mafia organization that is moving into the South, killed his father, and Roman won’t rest until he gets revenge. Darren Servant, another oligarch, is backing up the MacKennas, hiding Oisin and making Roman’s efforts fruitless. But Roman has a plan. It will be messy, but it doesn’t matter anymore. Roman won’t just roll over and allow the assassination to go unpunished. Revenge will be his, even if Roman’s father was a monster.
When Cassie works a party full of powerful and dangerous men, an accident turns the ire of one such man against her. Another man, whose powerful presence seems to command the entire room, comes to her rescue. But Cassie’s troubles don’t end there. When she becomes a witness to a crime, a target is on her back. Her knight in shining armor, Roman, comes to her rescue again, promising to keep her safe. But as things begin to unravel, Cassie soon finds herself whisked away into Roman’s dark and dangerous world.
IN THIS BOOK:
This story opens outside of South Bend, Indiana, immediately following the close of book one.
Winter Kresswell, roughly twenty-four, has a lot in common with her best friend, Cassie. Winter, too, has a past that she hopes to keep secret. She was raised in upstate New York in a life of luxury, but she was not surrounded by love. Following her parents’ split, she was left with a father that was iconic in the world of finance, but who unfortunately saw Winter as liability. He wasn’t there when she needed him most, so at eighteen she decided to leave her old life behind, changing her name from Spring Kane and adopting a new identity. She has lived a quiet life in Sea Isle, New Jersey since before Cassie arrived three years ago. They had worked together, waitressing at various venues around town, and were neighbors as well until Roman Lenkov whisked Cassie away. Cassie seemed to have gotten her happily ever after in that unlikely match with Roman, but it put Winter in the crosshairs of Darren Servant, another dangerous oligarch. Darren was involved in a treacherous war with Roman, and he used Winter for her connection to Cassie. Winter shouldn’t have turned down Roman’s protection when she left their beach house on foot, but that was a lesson she learned too late. Darren, it seemed, was not through with her yet.
Darren Servant, roughly thirty-three, is quiet but ruthless and has been after Roman for years. Darren lost the MacKennas to Roman once Cassie’s father was installed as their new leader, but he still has the Ukranians, led by Hadeon Patrenko, working with him, and he has Roman on the defensive. To the other oligarchs, the battles are nothing more than an expensive game to quell their boredom, but for Darren it means so much more. He has his sights set on taking Roman down, but even that won’t be enough. Roman must die. Winter had proven useful in the past, and taking her will help to keep Roman in check. Roman might be accustomed to death, but his new wife won’t want anything happening to her best friend. And when Darren learns that Winter’s father is Jason Kane, he sees other ways in which the young woman could be useful.
Darren has been working in the background to enlist support from the oligarchs for his activities, and Roman’s recent gains have helped Darren’s cause. Old Bern, Maeve, and Kaspar had given Roman some time to avenge his father’s death, and they will likewise grant Darren a reprieve. Darren wants to see change come to the oligarchs. The old guard wastes their power on games when they could be using it for the general good, influencing politics and the like. Accusing Roman of representing the worst of them gets Darren the time he needs. For Darren, taking down Roman is not so much about power. It is about revenge, and Darren had crossed an invisible line when he destroyed Roman’s bunker. With Winter living under his roof, however, he knows Roman won’t strike his family.
For Darren, family is everything. As the head of his family, his entire focus is their safety. His mother, Charleigh, is quite the character, but she agrees that they should attempt to make his sisters’ lives as normal as possible. Erin is quiet and always glued to her phone. She is just two years younger than Darren. Penny is seven years younger than Darren. At about twenty-six, she seems the most untouched by her unusual upbringing even though she can rarely leave her home. Anthony, twenty-three, is charismatic and the life of the party. He works closely with Darren, participating in battle. Liv passed away ten years ago. She had been four years younger than Darren, and she had been the glue that held the family together. Her loss was deeply felt, but nobody could ever bring themselves to talk about it. That was the Servant way. The hole she left behind in their family was cancerous, impacting each family member in a unique way. Another family incident occurred thirteen years ago; it is seared Darren’s consciousness and infects his decision-making.
When Darren brings Winter to his home outside of South Bend, he gives her a list of rules to follow. Winter, though, is naturally feisty and challenges him every chance she gets. They have a battle of wills as he works to take down Roman, and she strives for her freedom. Their back and forth soon leads to some rather unwanted chemistry, and eventually their dynamics begin to change. Darren had promised Winter her freedom once she had served her purpose, but he soon develops other plans. The pair battle it out while the mysterious Servant family history unfolds. But as they grow closer, Winter’s relationship with Cassie proves to be more of a problem. The couple eventually earns a happy for now ending, but the series is clearly unfinished. The danger remains. The story closes in the fall. It appears Kaspar and Penny’s story will follow in book three.
Don’t forget to download the free bonus epilogue via the link at the back of the book.
Darren and Winter’s story is a page turner. There are a number of characters at play, and some of their stories overlap. Darren played the bad guy in Roman’s story, and it is sometimes difficult to reconcile that man with the family-focused hero in this book. At home and surrounded by his family, Darren seems somewhat normal. But he can flip at any moment, changing into a ruthless and bloodthirsty avenger, protector of his family. The contrast is striking. He is devoted to his family and their safety. It is that love, though, in addition to his position as an oligarch, that fuels his dark side. He learned the hard way that family can be the source of pain. He isn’t the only Servant to be feared, though. Most of them have an evil side.
Roman’s character is likewise sometimes difficult to reconcile here. He had been bent on avenging his father’s death, and Darren had stood in his way. Their battle had been bloody in book one, but it was because Darren had inserted himself in the fight. Roman knew he would be knocked down a rung or two at the end, but he played the game anyway because his father’s murder could not go unanswered. So for Darren to complain about Roman’s power seems a little whiney, since he forced Roman to act. And Darren had crossed some clear lines that the oligarchs were not to cross, so it could also be said that Darren needed to be taken down a notch. It takes a little time to adjust to the different viewpoint.
A few issues merit mention. There are a couple of references to Roman (by Penny) that seem to be a mistake. It caused me to read an reread, but I believe they were meant to reference Darren instead. Also, there is supposed to be a seven year difference between Darren and Penny, but Kaspar is both three years younger than Darren and three years older than Penny, which equals six, not seven. Here, Roman is said to be somewhat close in age to Darren, which makes sense for the story, but from the last book we see there is roughly a five year difference. When younger, that would have been a big difference in age. Finally, there are a number of references to ten years ago that mistakenly reference the wrong family tragedy. The tragedy in question took place thirteen years ago, not ten. These points might cause a little confusion while reading, so just be aware of them if you read an uncorrected copy.
Darren and Winter’s enemies-to-lovers story has plenty of banter and steam amidst his dangerous pursuit of Roman. Darren is determined to take his enemy down, but unlike the other oligarchs, it isn’t a game to him. Bent on revenge, he will stop at nothing, and Winter will be his tool. The story is nicely written. It is plot-driven and complex. It is written in first person. The POV alternates between Darren and Winter, with a chapter each in Chika’s and Anthony’s POVs, and two in Penny’s POV. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2021
4.5⭐️
The story of Winter and Darren does not start very well since he kidnaps her and plans to use her against Roman, his previous friend and now a mortal enemy, since Roman's wife is a close friend of Winter.
Darren is blinded by his thirst for revenge against Roman for what happened in the past between them and his family, to such an extent that he will risk his life and a possible truce to achieve what he has been waiting for so many years.
Winter thought that she had managed to escape from that life, but because of Darren she finds herself in it again. Winter is torn between the hatred she has for Darren and what he has done to her and plans to do with her, and the desire to be with a man like him, wild and cruel but protective of his family.
I'm already hooked on the Oligarchs and I'm dying of curiosity to find out what’s up with Penny, Darren's little sister, and the Oligarch who has long stalked her in the shadows.
The story of Winter and Darren does not start very well since he kidnaps her and plans to use her against Roman, his previous friend and now a mortal enemy, since Roman's wife is a close friend of Winter.
Darren is blinded by his thirst for revenge against Roman for what happened in the past between them and his family, to such an extent that he will risk his life and a possible truce to achieve what he has been waiting for so many years.
Winter thought that she had managed to escape from that life, but because of Darren she finds herself in it again. Winter is torn between the hatred she has for Darren and what he has done to her and plans to do with her, and the desire to be with a man like him, wild and cruel but protective of his family.
I'm already hooked on the Oligarchs and I'm dying of curiosity to find out what’s up with Penny, Darren's little sister, and the Oligarch who has long stalked her in the shadows.
November 24, 2021
first time with this author - will not be last. very good story line with interesting characters. could not put it down. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 15, 2022
Below Par
Just too much back and forth about nothing between Winter and Darren. Three hundred pages should have been reduced to one hundred fifty if author adhered to the subject matter. Reason was kidnapping Winter was never finished. Darren was ridiculous in his pursuit of power and control for wrong reasons. Skipped a lot because most interest in musings of characters .
Just too much back and forth about nothing between Winter and Darren. Three hundred pages should have been reduced to one hundred fifty if author adhered to the subject matter. Reason was kidnapping Winter was never finished. Darren was ridiculous in his pursuit of power and control for wrong reasons. Skipped a lot because most interest in musings of characters .
September 27, 2021
This is Darren & Winter’s Enemies-To-Lovers Story.
Winter's character was refreshing and feisty in the first half of the book until she married Darren.
Darren is bent on revenge. On-going feud between Roman and Darren was sinless when the truth finally comes out.
Younger sister Erin is quite the deceitful sister with brother Darren having no clue what she is doing behind his back including selling his other sister into an arranged marriage to Kaspar (another story to come).
Many twists and turns, and revelations were noteworthy. There are a lot of characters, and who is who and what is going on. This was a longer book, many characters involved, a bit too involved to follow everyone correctly.
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
Winter's character was refreshing and feisty in the first half of the book until she married Darren.
Darren is bent on revenge. On-going feud between Roman and Darren was sinless when the truth finally comes out.
Younger sister Erin is quite the deceitful sister with brother Darren having no clue what she is doing behind his back including selling his other sister into an arranged marriage to Kaspar (another story to come).
Many twists and turns, and revelations were noteworthy. There are a lot of characters, and who is who and what is going on. This was a longer book, many characters involved, a bit too involved to follow everyone correctly.
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
October 4, 2021
Even though Darren explained why he kidnapped Winter, he never attempted to contact her father. The story moved to the war with Roman.
The story kept jumping out of sequence. I wished the story would've found some kind of strength for Penny. I understood why Ivy took her own life. Being in that family would've been difficult because the expectation was too high.
I'm hoping there will be a book on Penny's story.
The story kept jumping out of sequence. I wished the story would've found some kind of strength for Penny. I understood why Ivy took her own life. Being in that family would've been difficult because the expectation was too high.
I'm hoping there will be a book on Penny's story.
March 11, 2022
I think this series is starting to grow on me.
Book two of this series was better than the first one. I still don't like the one and two word paragraphs, but keeping the characters from book one intricate in the story helped. I did love the two women becoming the strong ones. Let's see how book three goes.
Book two of this series was better than the first one. I still don't like the one and two word paragraphs, but keeping the characters from book one intricate in the story helped. I did love the two women becoming the strong ones. Let's see how book three goes.
March 23, 2022
Good book 2
I really liked this book but didn’t love it as much a book 1. I enjoyed Darren and Winters chemistry and banter, I just feel like there were missed opportunities. What happened with her Dad? Why was that such a big part but no real conclusion. And Darren’s mom Charleigh, she was sort left hanging in the wind. Maybe thing will make sense in book 3.
I really liked this book but didn’t love it as much a book 1. I enjoyed Darren and Winters chemistry and banter, I just feel like there were missed opportunities. What happened with her Dad? Why was that such a big part but no real conclusion. And Darren’s mom Charleigh, she was sort left hanging in the wind. Maybe thing will make sense in book 3.
October 6, 2021
Good Story
However seems like there's so much more that could happen in the story. Big pieces that come together. I get the author wants us to read more then one book. But still. I think there should be a part two for Darren and Winter for all the unanswered.
However seems like there's so much more that could happen in the story. Big pieces that come together. I get the author wants us to read more then one book. But still. I think there should be a part two for Darren and Winter for all the unanswered.
May 25, 2022
This was a descent read.
Not sure if it's because I did not read Cassie's story but the characters were not flushed out.
The reason he kidnap Winter fell short. It never made sense.
I am all about insta love but I never quite believe Winter loves him back.
P.S Erin is a psycho.
Not sure if it's because I did not read Cassie's story but the characters were not flushed out.
The reason he kidnap Winter fell short. It never made sense.
I am all about insta love but I never quite believe Winter loves him back.
P.S Erin is a psycho.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2021
I read the first half of this book and honestly skimmed the rest. If you are new to this genre then you will have rated this book higher. For me, an avid reader of this genre it was too predictable and based upon so many prior novels before it. I had hoped that this book would be different, that the author would have written the story differently, but unfortunately it was text book Mafia genre.
Revenge
Leverage
Kidnapping
Heroine is a pawn/collateral damage
Forced Marriage so Darren could gain more power by using Winter's "daddy dearest's wealth/connections
Submission/sex that results in a predictable love story between captive and captor
This author can write and many of the twists and turns, and revelations were noteworthy. There was too much blood letting so that Anthony could keep his secret. The on-going feud between Roman and Darren was needless when the truth finally came out. Dear little Erin is quite the deceitful sister with brother Darren having no clue what she is doing behind his back including selling his other sister into an arranged marriage to Kaspar ( another story to come). How do you live with someone day in and day out and not know who they really are? Apparently Darren is not as smart as the reader is led to believe when his own family member is willing to sell their sister for a debt while she prepares to undermine her own brother. Who needs enemies when you have a sibling like that?
Winter's character was refreshing and feisty in the first half of the book until she married Darren. She lost her appeal and became a wife/hostage that lived for sex and the big O (greatest sex she ever had...aah huh). This is a fiction piece but do you think that any woman in todays' world would marry someone she doesn't even know; someone that doesn't even tell her they are getting married, but announces it in front of his alliances and then magically falls in love? Probably not, but this is a fiction piece.
The story had it's moments but did not provide an alternate theme to the storyline resulting in basically the same story; different characters, different triggers and different reasons for revenge but basically the same story that has been written into obscurity. I like this author and knows she has a story in this genre that is just waiting for her to write which will be geared to the Mafia in real time and not from the 1990's.
Revenge
Leverage
Kidnapping
Heroine is a pawn/collateral damage
Forced Marriage so Darren could gain more power by using Winter's "daddy dearest's wealth/connections
Submission/sex that results in a predictable love story between captive and captor
This author can write and many of the twists and turns, and revelations were noteworthy. There was too much blood letting so that Anthony could keep his secret. The on-going feud between Roman and Darren was needless when the truth finally came out. Dear little Erin is quite the deceitful sister with brother Darren having no clue what she is doing behind his back including selling his other sister into an arranged marriage to Kaspar ( another story to come). How do you live with someone day in and day out and not know who they really are? Apparently Darren is not as smart as the reader is led to believe when his own family member is willing to sell their sister for a debt while she prepares to undermine her own brother. Who needs enemies when you have a sibling like that?
Winter's character was refreshing and feisty in the first half of the book until she married Darren. She lost her appeal and became a wife/hostage that lived for sex and the big O (greatest sex she ever had...aah huh). This is a fiction piece but do you think that any woman in todays' world would marry someone she doesn't even know; someone that doesn't even tell her they are getting married, but announces it in front of his alliances and then magically falls in love? Probably not, but this is a fiction piece.
The story had it's moments but did not provide an alternate theme to the storyline resulting in basically the same story; different characters, different triggers and different reasons for revenge but basically the same story that has been written into obscurity. I like this author and knows she has a story in this genre that is just waiting for her to write which will be geared to the Mafia in real time and not from the 1990's.
September 19, 2021
“Beautiful Trouble” is a book that is so much more than what you might expect it to be. There is a book that comes before this one in 'The .Oligarchs'. That book is called “Perfect Monster” and although you don’t need to have read it to be able to understand and enjoy this one, I do also strongly recommend it. These books are about Oligarchs, who in this case are a small group of incredibly wealthy, powerful people who control the mafia organizations around the world. Tradition, rules and unspoken rules guide many of their decisions.
Darren is smart, fierce and cunning. He’s determined to destroy Roman, a fellow Oligarch and former friend who shot and nearly killed Darren’s younger brother more than a decade ago, when his brother was just a 10 years old boy. He’s been attacking Roman directly and through behind the scenes negotiations with other Oligarchs. Winter is the best friend of Roman’s wife. She has no idea what is going on when she becomes an unwitting and unwilling captive pawn in a deadly game. I don’t want to give plot specifics beyond what I’ve mentioned because it’s so well crafted, the less you know about it ahead of time, the more impactful your reading of the book will be. There’s a lot of personal chemistry and fiery passion between the lead characters, and a couple of scenes that might just make you shed a tear. There’s some violence, but that shouldn’t be a surprise considering the subject matter.
Darren and Winter are both well-developed characters. As the action in the book progresses, and as more background information is gradually revealed about each of them, we get to watch them both evolve. A couple of the revelations in the book are slightly foreshadowed by things that go before, but a couple of other things really shocked me. The story is told in dual POV, which is a technique I like because it gives a more interesting perspective on the behavior of the characters. Several important chapters are also written from the viewpoint of a few secondary characters, which makes it even more dramatic. I thought the conclusion was unexpected and outstanding, and after it we find out the direction the next book will take … and it’s clearly going to be so good!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Darren is smart, fierce and cunning. He’s determined to destroy Roman, a fellow Oligarch and former friend who shot and nearly killed Darren’s younger brother more than a decade ago, when his brother was just a 10 years old boy. He’s been attacking Roman directly and through behind the scenes negotiations with other Oligarchs. Winter is the best friend of Roman’s wife. She has no idea what is going on when she becomes an unwitting and unwilling captive pawn in a deadly game. I don’t want to give plot specifics beyond what I’ve mentioned because it’s so well crafted, the less you know about it ahead of time, the more impactful your reading of the book will be. There’s a lot of personal chemistry and fiery passion between the lead characters, and a couple of scenes that might just make you shed a tear. There’s some violence, but that shouldn’t be a surprise considering the subject matter.
Darren and Winter are both well-developed characters. As the action in the book progresses, and as more background information is gradually revealed about each of them, we get to watch them both evolve. A couple of the revelations in the book are slightly foreshadowed by things that go before, but a couple of other things really shocked me. The story is told in dual POV, which is a technique I like because it gives a more interesting perspective on the behavior of the characters. Several important chapters are also written from the viewpoint of a few secondary characters, which makes it even more dramatic. I thought the conclusion was unexpected and outstanding, and after it we find out the direction the next book will take … and it’s clearly going to be so good!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2023
these books are sick and twisted
I won’t be reading any more of them. These are some Stockholm Syndrome stories, disguised as romance. No thank you. I could look beyond book 1 where Ronan tricked a very willing panting Cassie into marriage.. while he tricker her into marriage she was very willing to be with him. Wanted him ..
in this book however Summer was literally drugged & kidnapped by Darren Servant,
And In One breath swears he would never rape a woman but threatens to do it over and over. Just because Summer sorta thinks he is sexy. And fear makes. Women aroused but that is just biological. So resigning herself to doom of agreement to marry Darren.. is not the same as wanting to marry someone. But worse Daren’s sister E.. sells her own younger sister Penny to a powerful man who literally drugs and kidnaps her and the sister allows it to happen right in front of her, and she walks away! Kaspir is obsessed with tormenting Penny and now bought Penny, from her older sister E.
I most definitely will not be reading this story at all because Kaspir refuses to help Darren in his “war” against Roman.. if he forces Summer to marry Darren, But it’s ok for him (Kaspir) to drug/ kidnap & force Penny to marry him.. these books are just sick and twisted. And a bunch of Too stupid to live, dumb twits who resign themselves to Stockholm Syndrome “romance/marriage” no thank you. And the reason Roman and Darren are in a war to begin with is absolutely absurdly ridiculous I was so angry when the truth was revealed., we are talking about 80+ upwards of men and a few women, who have died in the war between. R & D. Because of Anthony’s lies. I was so angry and well all was so easily forgiven and forgotten.. I wanted to puke! No thank you I did not like this stories and at some point started skimming. Past pages. Just so I could get it over with ! Be done with it! What a waste of my life and time! All these characters are too stupid to live.
I won’t be reading any more of them. These are some Stockholm Syndrome stories, disguised as romance. No thank you. I could look beyond book 1 where Ronan tricked a very willing panting Cassie into marriage.. while he tricker her into marriage she was very willing to be with him. Wanted him ..
in this book however Summer was literally drugged & kidnapped by Darren Servant,
And In One breath swears he would never rape a woman but threatens to do it over and over. Just because Summer sorta thinks he is sexy. And fear makes. Women aroused but that is just biological. So resigning herself to doom of agreement to marry Darren.. is not the same as wanting to marry someone. But worse Daren’s sister E.. sells her own younger sister Penny to a powerful man who literally drugs and kidnaps her and the sister allows it to happen right in front of her, and she walks away! Kaspir is obsessed with tormenting Penny and now bought Penny, from her older sister E.
I most definitely will not be reading this story at all because Kaspir refuses to help Darren in his “war” against Roman.. if he forces Summer to marry Darren, But it’s ok for him (Kaspir) to drug/ kidnap & force Penny to marry him.. these books are just sick and twisted. And a bunch of Too stupid to live, dumb twits who resign themselves to Stockholm Syndrome “romance/marriage” no thank you. And the reason Roman and Darren are in a war to begin with is absolutely absurdly ridiculous I was so angry when the truth was revealed., we are talking about 80+ upwards of men and a few women, who have died in the war between. R & D. Because of Anthony’s lies. I was so angry and well all was so easily forgiven and forgotten.. I wanted to puke! No thank you I did not like this stories and at some point started skimming. Past pages. Just so I could get it over with ! Be done with it! What a waste of my life and time! All these characters are too stupid to live.
September 20, 2021
Wow! Bb Hamel has another addictive story that draws you in until the last page!
This story starts after the conclusion of perfect monster. That story followed Roman and Cassie. This story follows cassies best friend winter. Darren is ready to go to war with Roman to bring him down a couple notches after all that he did in the previous book to avenge his father but mostly his brother. Darren used winter as a pawn because of the relationship with Cassie to get what he wants. You go I. And want a HEA for winter but not at the cost of Roman and Cassie so you definitely has angst and enough pull to turn each page. Darren is doing everything his can to protect his family , and after already having lost a sister he won’t lose another. Winter is feisty, we learned that in the previous book, so she fights tooth and nail to gain her freedom, only this makes Darren want her more. Their push and pull is what makes it such a great story. And the turn from enemies to lovers is beautiful. Winter and Cassie soon realize they need to work together to get this resolved or they will both lose everything. Roman got his revenge but at what cost. Due to saddens affinity of loyalty and family above all else will learning the truth about the romans drive away his resolve? Will winter and Cassie lose everything?
This book is fast paced like it’s previous counterpart, and riddle with romance, suspense, angst, steam and with slight dark undertones we all know BB Hamel loves to work with. This standalone is amazing but more so following the pull of the previous story and all we have invested in the characters from book 1.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story starts after the conclusion of perfect monster. That story followed Roman and Cassie. This story follows cassies best friend winter. Darren is ready to go to war with Roman to bring him down a couple notches after all that he did in the previous book to avenge his father but mostly his brother. Darren used winter as a pawn because of the relationship with Cassie to get what he wants. You go I. And want a HEA for winter but not at the cost of Roman and Cassie so you definitely has angst and enough pull to turn each page. Darren is doing everything his can to protect his family , and after already having lost a sister he won’t lose another. Winter is feisty, we learned that in the previous book, so she fights tooth and nail to gain her freedom, only this makes Darren want her more. Their push and pull is what makes it such a great story. And the turn from enemies to lovers is beautiful. Winter and Cassie soon realize they need to work together to get this resolved or they will both lose everything. Roman got his revenge but at what cost. Due to saddens affinity of loyalty and family above all else will learning the truth about the romans drive away his resolve? Will winter and Cassie lose everything?
This book is fast paced like it’s previous counterpart, and riddle with romance, suspense, angst, steam and with slight dark undertones we all know BB Hamel loves to work with. This standalone is amazing but more so following the pull of the previous story and all we have invested in the characters from book 1.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2022
Winter & Darren- Matched with Sinful Desire
Winter has always been a free spirit and never holds back her thoughts or feelings. Her big mouth is what gets her trouble when she refuses a ride home from Cassie & Roman’s house: which gives Darren ( Roman’s enemy & fellow Oligarch) the perfect opportunity to kidnap her. She knows she is going to be used as a pawn in his war against Roman but she has to try to make him change his mind. She is attracted to Darren and he is sinfully sexy but can she convince to some sort of truce before everyone she loves is in danger?
Darren can’t stop thinking about Winter and the moment they met she was mouthy and full of passion. He knew he had to make her his and when the opportunity arises to do just that he doesn’t hesitate. Darren is loyal to his family and will stop at nothing to get his revenge on Roman. He knows he is powerful but he has plans and keeping Winter is the first step in his seeking his revenge.
Winter knows that Darren will stop at nothing for his revenge but she hopes she can convince him to a truce but she has to earn his trust first. She is attracted to him and yearns for his touch. He is sinfully sexy but there is darkness underneath and his secrets could destroy everyone she cares about. This book is filled with lies and secrets. But it is also filled with loyalty, commitment, compassion, and love. Their connection is sinfully delicious and their love for each other might just give them the chance to make everything right. Darren has big plans for their future but if they can’t let go of the past they might not have one to enjoy. You will thoroughly enjoy this book and you will run to read book 3 to see what happens next. Happy Reading!!
Winter has always been a free spirit and never holds back her thoughts or feelings. Her big mouth is what gets her trouble when she refuses a ride home from Cassie & Roman’s house: which gives Darren ( Roman’s enemy & fellow Oligarch) the perfect opportunity to kidnap her. She knows she is going to be used as a pawn in his war against Roman but she has to try to make him change his mind. She is attracted to Darren and he is sinfully sexy but can she convince to some sort of truce before everyone she loves is in danger?
Darren can’t stop thinking about Winter and the moment they met she was mouthy and full of passion. He knew he had to make her his and when the opportunity arises to do just that he doesn’t hesitate. Darren is loyal to his family and will stop at nothing to get his revenge on Roman. He knows he is powerful but he has plans and keeping Winter is the first step in his seeking his revenge.
Winter knows that Darren will stop at nothing for his revenge but she hopes she can convince him to a truce but she has to earn his trust first. She is attracted to him and yearns for his touch. He is sinfully sexy but there is darkness underneath and his secrets could destroy everyone she cares about. This book is filled with lies and secrets. But it is also filled with loyalty, commitment, compassion, and love. Their connection is sinfully delicious and their love for each other might just give them the chance to make everything right. Darren has big plans for their future but if they can’t let go of the past they might not have one to enjoy. You will thoroughly enjoy this book and you will run to read book 3 to see what happens next. Happy Reading!!
February 23, 2024
Ok.readers I wrote a very long review about Winter and Darren's story which we know there meeting was in the middle of Cassie and Roman's fiasco.
The organization the other men belong to
It seems as these two have the same thing in mind to bring their enemy to an end. It just so happens the two woman are.best friends At one time so were the men.
Winter also seems to be hiding from a past she was not happy with. This can play an important part in Darren's business.
Both of these extremely intoxicating men are fighting for the.same goal. While Roman had been a member of the "Oligarchs" which handles the mob figures over the world. Darren is basically a newer member is trying to knock Roman out because of two things but the main thing is a personal Vendetta.
The both girls have suffered the same hell and these men started out using them for their business needs.
So much for using ......Winter was torn with her feelings and beliefs. The more Darren would let her in the harder she was falling. Still frighten that she could be killed in the wars between both men she felt that she could help change things with the help.of her best friend.
Who doesn't like a.little violence in a Mafia story?.read what Winter and Darren experience on a the way to a meeting?
How will Winter react knowing that Darren wants to use her as a bargaining chip to get the heads
Stories seem familiar bit the hidden secret is different.
Will Darren take down is old friend and get satisfaction. After a.decade?
Violence, lust, family interference, secrets !more.than one.
Enjoy BB Hamels.tails she talks.of Mob life around the world. There is some for plenty of ethnic groups to capture here on fantasies of their homeland.
Support this indi.author. you can find her books on Amazon. Read for free.on KU.
The organization the other men belong to
It seems as these two have the same thing in mind to bring their enemy to an end. It just so happens the two woman are.best friends At one time so were the men.
Winter also seems to be hiding from a past she was not happy with. This can play an important part in Darren's business.
Both of these extremely intoxicating men are fighting for the.same goal. While Roman had been a member of the "Oligarchs" which handles the mob figures over the world. Darren is basically a newer member is trying to knock Roman out because of two things but the main thing is a personal Vendetta.
The both girls have suffered the same hell and these men started out using them for their business needs.
So much for using ......Winter was torn with her feelings and beliefs. The more Darren would let her in the harder she was falling. Still frighten that she could be killed in the wars between both men she felt that she could help change things with the help.of her best friend.
Who doesn't like a.little violence in a Mafia story?.read what Winter and Darren experience on a the way to a meeting?
How will Winter react knowing that Darren wants to use her as a bargaining chip to get the heads
Stories seem familiar bit the hidden secret is different.
Will Darren take down is old friend and get satisfaction. After a.decade?
Violence, lust, family interference, secrets !more.than one.
Enjoy BB Hamels.tails she talks.of Mob life around the world. There is some for plenty of ethnic groups to capture here on fantasies of their homeland.
Support this indi.author. you can find her books on Amazon. Read for free.on KU.
September 17, 2021
This is the second book in this oligarch series. I think you could probably read it without reading the first book but you’ll understand and enjoy more if you’ve read Perfect Monster.
At the end of Perfect Monster, we witness Darren Servant kidnapping Winter Kresswell, Cassie’s best friend. Darren has a long standing grudge for Roman and we saw some the attacks he made in the first book. Of course, the grudge he holds is based on a lie/misunderstanding but he doesn’t know that yet.
Darren realizes right away he may have got more than he bargained for by kidnapping the very feisty Winter. Winter was actually a pretty likable heroine. Watching her get under his skin in the beginning was entertaining.
Darren doesn’t become tolerable until the second half of the book. He begins their captor/captive relationship with macho crap and makes it overly adversarial. I don’t really know what she saw in him but they have hate filled chemistry and this is a romance novel so it was only ever going to go one way for them. It was really satisfying seeing them find their way to a HEA despite Darren being an idiot. Winter saved him from himself.
Story 4/5, Heat 2/5, Darkness 1/5, Angst 2.5/5
Medium burn (48%), no condoms, not too spicy but not really vanilla either, no sharing, no OW or OM drama, push away from h - she was his captive so you can’t blame her. No cheating, no cliffhanger for the couple and HEA. There is an epilogue that has a bit of a cliffhanger that sets up next book.
At the end of Perfect Monster, we witness Darren Servant kidnapping Winter Kresswell, Cassie’s best friend. Darren has a long standing grudge for Roman and we saw some the attacks he made in the first book. Of course, the grudge he holds is based on a lie/misunderstanding but he doesn’t know that yet.
Darren realizes right away he may have got more than he bargained for by kidnapping the very feisty Winter. Winter was actually a pretty likable heroine. Watching her get under his skin in the beginning was entertaining.
Darren doesn’t become tolerable until the second half of the book. He begins their captor/captive relationship with macho crap and makes it overly adversarial. I don’t really know what she saw in him but they have hate filled chemistry and this is a romance novel so it was only ever going to go one way for them. It was really satisfying seeing them find their way to a HEA despite Darren being an idiot. Winter saved him from himself.
Story 4/5, Heat 2/5, Darkness 1/5, Angst 2.5/5
Medium burn (48%), no condoms, not too spicy but not really vanilla either, no sharing, no OW or OM drama, push away from h - she was his captive so you can’t blame her. No cheating, no cliffhanger for the couple and HEA. There is an epilogue that has a bit of a cliffhanger that sets up next book.
September 21, 2021
Abducted and forced into the midst of an all out war between powerful men, Winter tries to navigate through the twists and turns thrown her way. All she wanted to do was live her life and visit her friend, Cassie. She was through being a passive pawn, despite the attraction growing between herself and her captor.
Darren took Winter as a jab at his mortal enemy. He didn't expect to keep her, or fall in love with her. He had every intention of letting her go, until she caught his attention and wound herself deeply into his soul. Now he will do anything to keep her and his siblings safe in the middle of the storm, no matter how hard the truth bombs shake the foundations of the Servant family core.
This one is a doozy. If you don't get whiplash from all the twists and turns, I'll be surprised. There are more subplots, mysteries, and secrets among the characters of this wild tale than a spy novel. If the thoughts of death and carnage upset you, though, you might not want to read this one, as at times the author is quite graphic and realistic about what it means to be in a war between oligarchs and mafia families. The author also weaves in self harm, suicide, and abuse. Be forewarned, this is not a story for the faint of heart. (Being brutally honest, this tale of hate, revenge, and love redeems itself in the end.)
That being said, this one is another knockout in the B. B. Hamel universe.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Darren took Winter as a jab at his mortal enemy. He didn't expect to keep her, or fall in love with her. He had every intention of letting her go, until she caught his attention and wound herself deeply into his soul. Now he will do anything to keep her and his siblings safe in the middle of the storm, no matter how hard the truth bombs shake the foundations of the Servant family core.
This one is a doozy. If you don't get whiplash from all the twists and turns, I'll be surprised. There are more subplots, mysteries, and secrets among the characters of this wild tale than a spy novel. If the thoughts of death and carnage upset you, though, you might not want to read this one, as at times the author is quite graphic and realistic about what it means to be in a war between oligarchs and mafia families. The author also weaves in self harm, suicide, and abuse. Be forewarned, this is not a story for the faint of heart. (Being brutally honest, this tale of hate, revenge, and love redeems itself in the end.)
That being said, this one is another knockout in the B. B. Hamel universe.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2021
Beautiful Trouble is a dark mafia romance and the second book in “The Oligarchs” Series. The books read as more of a continuation of one another than standalone’s. At the end of each one you get an epilogue based on the next book. Plus, this world is very interconnected and with each book we learn more about this world BB Hamel has created for us. I wasn’t sure what to expect from Darren and his appearance in The Perfect Monster. But, I knew Winter would give him a run for his money.
Winter has a past she would rather keep hidden. She has moved on from it and created a new life for herself. But, she finds herself in the middle and used as a pawn in Darren’s war against Roman.
Darren wants revenge against Roman for a past transgression. He feels Roman has too much power and he needs Winter’s agreement to convince the other Oligarchs to join his cause.
Darren’s family are haunted by their own tragic past. Darren wants to change the paths the Oligarchs are on. But, he has started a war that will end very tragically if he and Roman cannot agree to terms.
As the war begins raging around them, Winter and Darren, find an unexpected solace in one another. Revealing all their truths brings them together. What was once a means to an end becomes so much more.
Most of story is told thru Winter and Darrens POV’s. However, we get a few chapters dedicated to Penny, his younger sister, whose story is up next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Winter has a past she would rather keep hidden. She has moved on from it and created a new life for herself. But, she finds herself in the middle and used as a pawn in Darren’s war against Roman.
Darren wants revenge against Roman for a past transgression. He feels Roman has too much power and he needs Winter’s agreement to convince the other Oligarchs to join his cause.
Darren’s family are haunted by their own tragic past. Darren wants to change the paths the Oligarchs are on. But, he has started a war that will end very tragically if he and Roman cannot agree to terms.
As the war begins raging around them, Winter and Darren, find an unexpected solace in one another. Revealing all their truths brings them together. What was once a means to an end becomes so much more.
Most of story is told thru Winter and Darrens POV’s. However, we get a few chapters dedicated to Penny, his younger sister, whose story is up next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2021
The addition starts with the book cover….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with!
Bad boy….check
Bod boy’s crazy brother/friend…check
Bad boy’s Kryptonie…check ….check and check
This is book is part of The Oligarchs series why just read one when you can start at the beginning and keep reading through the series it won’t be a waste of time. We have met Roman and Winter in book one. Darren has started a war by kidnapping Roman’s wife best friend to keep his family safe he will do whatever it takes, and he will not lose another family member so takes Winter. Winter isn’t going to go willingly in fact there is fight from the beginning. What the two of them Darren and Winter didn’t count on was fate throwing her two cents into the mix. Winter values her freedom, with every fight she has with Darren the more the chemistry builds. Darren the more she fights him the more he wants to keep her is there common grade for them both? The chemistry is insanely intense, and the magnetic pull keeps bringing them back to each other but is it enough with the grounds of kidnapping, will Darren achieve what he set out to accomplish, will Roman work with him or against him considering how he got Roman’s attention, and can Darren and Winter find happiness?
Bad boy….check
Bod boy’s crazy brother/friend…check
Bad boy’s Kryptonie…check ….check and check
This is book is part of The Oligarchs series why just read one when you can start at the beginning and keep reading through the series it won’t be a waste of time. We have met Roman and Winter in book one. Darren has started a war by kidnapping Roman’s wife best friend to keep his family safe he will do whatever it takes, and he will not lose another family member so takes Winter. Winter isn’t going to go willingly in fact there is fight from the beginning. What the two of them Darren and Winter didn’t count on was fate throwing her two cents into the mix. Winter values her freedom, with every fight she has with Darren the more the chemistry builds. Darren the more she fights him the more he wants to keep her is there common grade for them both? The chemistry is insanely intense, and the magnetic pull keeps bringing them back to each other but is it enough with the grounds of kidnapping, will Darren achieve what he set out to accomplish, will Roman work with him or against him considering how he got Roman’s attention, and can Darren and Winter find happiness?
September 17, 2021
Fabulous Steamy Dark Mafia Romance
Winter Kresswell wakes up in a strange house after being kidnapped by Darren Servant one of the world’s notoriously dangerous Oligarchs. Darren is a handsome, chiseled man with eyes Winter could get lost in. She wants to reach out and run her fingers through his thick hair before she plunges a knife in his chest. There is reason to hate Darren. He kidnaped her, ruined her life, teased her mercilessly and treated her like he owns her. He is using her in his rivalry against Roman who is married to her best friend Cassie. How could she be attracted to him in any way, but a disgusting, broken part of Winter wants to find out what it would be like to give herself to Darren. Teasing and torturing Winter is a new pleasure for Darren that he had not expected when he took her. He hated her to begin with, but now he finds her delicious and tempting and he is going to marry her. This is a incredible read with steam, action, drama and suspense that will captivate one from the being till the end. Then the epilogue will leave you wanting to know what is going to happen next in this dark mafia world of Oligarchs.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for voluntarily writing an honest review.
Winter Kresswell wakes up in a strange house after being kidnapped by Darren Servant one of the world’s notoriously dangerous Oligarchs. Darren is a handsome, chiseled man with eyes Winter could get lost in. She wants to reach out and run her fingers through his thick hair before she plunges a knife in his chest. There is reason to hate Darren. He kidnaped her, ruined her life, teased her mercilessly and treated her like he owns her. He is using her in his rivalry against Roman who is married to her best friend Cassie. How could she be attracted to him in any way, but a disgusting, broken part of Winter wants to find out what it would be like to give herself to Darren. Teasing and torturing Winter is a new pleasure for Darren that he had not expected when he took her. He hated her to begin with, but now he finds her delicious and tempting and he is going to marry her. This is a incredible read with steam, action, drama and suspense that will captivate one from the being till the end. Then the epilogue will leave you wanting to know what is going to happen next in this dark mafia world of Oligarchs.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for voluntarily writing an honest review.
September 20, 2021
This is the 2nd story in the Oligrachs Series. Even though I missed the 1st story I was able to follow, I look forward to reading it. This is a dark steamy mafia story about Darren and Willow. Darren is a Oligrach and started a war with Roman in the previous story so in order to take some power away from him he kidnaps Willow who is best friends with Cassie, Roman’s wife. Darren believes he will be able to use Willow. Waking up in a strange room Willow knows things are not right and has no idea why she’s been taken. Darren treats Willow well along with a short leash as Willow is one feisty strong woman who stands up for herself. Both Darren and Willow have a past they have a hard time with. Darren knows who Willow and she is not happy, Willow does not back down and fights for what she wants. Penny, Darrens younger sister befriends Willow against Darrens wishes. When secrets are revealed Willow takes them to help her and when Darren surprises her with a request to marry him things get even crazier! Anthony and Erin the other siblings each play a role with some secrets that will take us to the next story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2021
This is the second book in this dark Mafia romance series—while Cassie & Roman were the main couple in the first book, Perfect Monster, Cassie’s friend Winter is the subject of a cliffhanger in that book. This is her story, which takes place shortly after the end of Perfect Monster. I think you can read this as a standalone but you’ll get more out of the characters if you read these in order. This is a story about revenge & family. I really didn’t know what to make of Darren when we’re introduced to him in the first book-Darren doesn’t feel like a very threatening name, although he certainly threatens Winter with his rules. Darren can be ruthless but seeing him in the context of his family soften him. Winter has her own very deep secrets. I didn’t really feel the connection between her and Darren, but I enjoyed her relationships with his family. There’s a lot of new characters in this book—Darren’s family and staff are certainly interesting and I look forward to seeing more of them. The plot with the Oligarchs is becoming a bit more clear, as much as they can with crime families. Solid read.
I received a copy of this book. My honest opinion is voluntarily provided.
I received a copy of this book. My honest opinion is voluntarily provided.
October 4, 2021
This intense and gripping dark romance was impossible to put down. It's the second book of the Oligarchs series which I think is probably the best series I have read yet by this author. I loved Roman and Cassie in book one of the series, Perfect Monster. Because of events in that book, I had mixed feelings about Winter and I despised Darren. I didn't think there was anything redeemable about him. That's where I was at when I started Beautiful Trouble.
Winter turned out to be a lot stronger, more likable, and more sympathetic than I expected. Darren however, just confirmed my opinion of him. But even though I had to grit my teeth at the way he treated Winter, I couldn't ignore the massive chemistry between them. Sizzling. Hot. I didn't like Darren for a good portion of the book. Then I found out why he was the way he was. Let's just say I had a major change of heart by the end of the story. So Ms. Hamel made a believer out of me after all. Beautiful Trouble is a really great read and I can't wait for Penny's book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Winter turned out to be a lot stronger, more likable, and more sympathetic than I expected. Darren however, just confirmed my opinion of him. But even though I had to grit my teeth at the way he treated Winter, I couldn't ignore the massive chemistry between them. Sizzling. Hot. I didn't like Darren for a good portion of the book. Then I found out why he was the way he was. Let's just say I had a major change of heart by the end of the story. So Ms. Hamel made a believer out of me after all. Beautiful Trouble is a really great read and I can't wait for Penny's book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 29, 2024
It’s a solid 4.5 stars
This is the tail of Winter and Darren in the Oligarchs series.
Winter is Cassie’s friend from book 1. Not just her friend but best friend. Because of the ongoing feud between Roman, Cassie’s husband also from book 1, and Darren, Darren decides to kidnap Winter to use against Cassie and Roman.
Winter has her own secrets, which always find a way out. In this story we find out why there is a feud and we meet Darren’s siblings while getting their back story. Meanwhile we still have the push and pull of war and the other Oligarchs are consulted. There are a lot of twists and turns with events that take place that were necessary but not as exciting as book 1.
The steamy scenes were good and didn’t overwhelm the story. The story is told with multiple POVs and you see the next and final book being set up in the epilogue.
It wasn’t a bad story, it just seemed that the reason for the war wasn’t what you could come up with before it’s exposed. Once exposed it seems kinda silly and totally ridiculous that the dispute went on for 10 years. The writing was good just wasn’t what I thought was going to happen. The series is still a great series.
This is the tail of Winter and Darren in the Oligarchs series.
Winter is Cassie’s friend from book 1. Not just her friend but best friend. Because of the ongoing feud between Roman, Cassie’s husband also from book 1, and Darren, Darren decides to kidnap Winter to use against Cassie and Roman.
Winter has her own secrets, which always find a way out. In this story we find out why there is a feud and we meet Darren’s siblings while getting their back story. Meanwhile we still have the push and pull of war and the other Oligarchs are consulted. There are a lot of twists and turns with events that take place that were necessary but not as exciting as book 1.
The steamy scenes were good and didn’t overwhelm the story. The story is told with multiple POVs and you see the next and final book being set up in the epilogue.
It wasn’t a bad story, it just seemed that the reason for the war wasn’t what you could come up with before it’s exposed. Once exposed it seems kinda silly and totally ridiculous that the dispute went on for 10 years. The writing was good just wasn’t what I thought was going to happen. The series is still a great series.
September 20, 2021
Winter is kidnapped as a pawn in Darren's war with another Oligarch, Roman. He keeps her prisoner. She promises to abide by his rules but that doesn't mean she is going to make it easy. She makes a pest of herself by damaging or destroying collectable books and antiques. Darren has never had anyone stand up to him like Winter. Darren is trying to negotiate an ouster of Roman. Roman attacks Darren a couple of times. Darren takes her on a trip to Chicago to a meeting where he says he is going to marry her. She agrees to this. In the mean time there are other power struggles going on that Darren doesn't know about. Darren and Winter have explosive chemistry and possibly a track to true love but they have to get past the plots, the double crossing and just plain wrong ideas. Family has to come to some conclusions. Winter feels comfortable with his sister Penny, who I suspect will get her own story. Great hot dark Mafia read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2021
Sets your Kindle on fire as Darren and Winter fight at every turn...only to be drawn closer
Beautiful Trouble is the second book in The Oligarchs series and is about Darren Servant and Winter Kresswell. This story continues from the first book, Perfect Monster. Darren is at war with Roman and takes his wife, Cassie's, best friend Winter. His plan is to use Winter as part of a bargain to get back what he has lost to Roman when Cassie's father came into power. But Winter is not a woman to be compliant and instead fights him at every turn she can. This makes him more attracted to her every day, as he likes her fight and spirit. At the same time Winter is being drawn closer to Darren as there is just something about him that is irresistible, even as she knows she should. There world is dark, violent, dangerous and more than a little exciting. This story is a toe curling thrill ride with a lot of crackling chemistry. A very riveting and deliciously sinful read.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Beautiful Trouble is the second book in The Oligarchs series and is about Darren Servant and Winter Kresswell. This story continues from the first book, Perfect Monster. Darren is at war with Roman and takes his wife, Cassie's, best friend Winter. His plan is to use Winter as part of a bargain to get back what he has lost to Roman when Cassie's father came into power. But Winter is not a woman to be compliant and instead fights him at every turn she can. This makes him more attracted to her every day, as he likes her fight and spirit. At the same time Winter is being drawn closer to Darren as there is just something about him that is irresistible, even as she knows she should. There world is dark, violent, dangerous and more than a little exciting. This story is a toe curling thrill ride with a lot of crackling chemistry. A very riveting and deliciously sinful read.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
September 27, 2021
Enemies to lovers, lies and deceit keeps you spellbound!
Winter started out as a pawn in a thirteen year long war between two ex friends who were both Oligarchs. Winter also had her secrets that she ran away and hid in the small beach town of Sea Isle. Her best friend enemy Darren Servant kidnapped her to use not only against Roman but Winter father as well. But what Darren didn’t realize was that Winter would help him to heal and he would help her to heal. After the lost of his sister Darren became overprotective of his family and was constantly attacking Roman. Winter and her friend Cassie were close as sisters and didn’t want their men to cause a riff in their relationship so they came up a plan for the men to meet and discuss what happened thirteen years ago with their half brother. Secrets and lies were almost their demise and the betrayal of a family member that was yet to be discovered. Beautiful story with intrigue and lots of steamy romance. I am looking forward to more books in The Oligarchs Series and I can’t wait. I know it will be great!
Winter started out as a pawn in a thirteen year long war between two ex friends who were both Oligarchs. Winter also had her secrets that she ran away and hid in the small beach town of Sea Isle. Her best friend enemy Darren Servant kidnapped her to use not only against Roman but Winter father as well. But what Darren didn’t realize was that Winter would help him to heal and he would help her to heal. After the lost of his sister Darren became overprotective of his family and was constantly attacking Roman. Winter and her friend Cassie were close as sisters and didn’t want their men to cause a riff in their relationship so they came up a plan for the men to meet and discuss what happened thirteen years ago with their half brother. Secrets and lies were almost their demise and the betrayal of a family member that was yet to be discovered. Beautiful story with intrigue and lots of steamy romance. I am looking forward to more books in The Oligarchs Series and I can’t wait. I know it will be great!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews