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Black Oak #2
Black Oak Burning
Cameron’s relentless craving for me never seemed to end, even when it seemed that he may end up claiming his victory over Jack.
The irresistible odyssey into his dark dreams of domination thrilled me to my very core, breaking some of the chains holding me to Jack and setting my soul on fire with the fervor of relentless lust and unspeakable threats of ecstasy.
The incessant magnetic pull of his hard, capable body and the yearning in his determined eyes overpowered all attempts at reason. And he knew it acutely.
Just as it seemed the storm had begun to still, demons that had long haunted Cameron started to resurface and Jack launched an all-out assault on my senses and need for protection, pulling me into his dizzying vortex of indecent desire and fervent obsession and making it clear to me that I would always belong to him.
I had no idea the Society would be watching our every move, waiting for the moment to strike, allowing Manhattan’s most powerful patrons to take their revenge on Cameron.
And Jack.
And me.
If I let them.
Would we all make it out?
Black Oak Burning is the scorchingly hot sequel to Enter The Black Oak and Part 2 of the Black Oak Trilogy. It starts with an explosive release which will leave readers breathless and giddy as they prepare to experience the ecstasy and torment of those who enter The Black Oak.
For a Mature Audience.
The irresistible odyssey into his dark dreams of domination thrilled me to my very core, breaking some of the chains holding me to Jack and setting my soul on fire with the fervor of relentless lust and unspeakable threats of ecstasy.
The incessant magnetic pull of his hard, capable body and the yearning in his determined eyes overpowered all attempts at reason. And he knew it acutely.
Just as it seemed the storm had begun to still, demons that had long haunted Cameron started to resurface and Jack launched an all-out assault on my senses and need for protection, pulling me into his dizzying vortex of indecent desire and fervent obsession and making it clear to me that I would always belong to him.
I had no idea the Society would be watching our every move, waiting for the moment to strike, allowing Manhattan’s most powerful patrons to take their revenge on Cameron.
And Jack.
And me.
If I let them.
Would we all make it out?
Black Oak Burning is the scorchingly hot sequel to Enter The Black Oak and Part 2 of the Black Oak Trilogy. It starts with an explosive release which will leave readers breathless and giddy as they prepare to experience the ecstasy and torment of those who enter The Black Oak.
For a Mature Audience.
496 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 24, 2020
536 people are currently reading
458 people want to read
About the author
Monique Edenwood
8 books325 followersMonique Edenwood is a British-Canadian author based in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Her love of the magical trees and forests that she grew up surrounded by helped to inspire her first novel, Enter The Black Oak, book 1 in the Black Oak series.
She loves helping people escape their daily lives for a short while with the help of some intrigue, suspense and some smoking hot fictional boyfriends!
When she isn’t writing or reading, she loves hiking and cycling around beautiful Vancouver.
She's also an epic fantasy geek and lover of 80's and 90's music.
Monique absolutely loves hearing from readers of her novels so please feel free to contact her!
Her love of the magical trees and forests that she grew up surrounded by helped to inspire her first novel, Enter The Black Oak, book 1 in the Black Oak series.
She loves helping people escape their daily lives for a short while with the help of some intrigue, suspense and some smoking hot fictional boyfriends!
When she isn’t writing or reading, she loves hiking and cycling around beautiful Vancouver.
She's also an epic fantasy geek and lover of 80's and 90's music.
Monique absolutely loves hearing from readers of her novels so please feel free to contact her!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
December 2, 2021
In the author's note of book 1, the author mentioned being a new indie author and reading her reviews. I definitely ranted about my frustration and disappointment with this book in the status updates. Since this is a new author who reads her reviews I want to come back and leave constructive criticism. Whoever beta read or edited this book let the author down big time. My low rating has absolutely nothing to do with cheating or the morality of the characters, and everything to do with the writing style. Below I'm just going to do a quick outline so I later remember which points I want to address.
February 18, 2021
The biggest problem with this book was that it was way too long. I heard the author is expanding this trilogy into four or five novels, and I will definitely read all of those books regardless of my skepticism because I think Monique Edenwood is a talented author but I just don't see how that's going to work.
Black Oak Burning was almost 500 pages but it could have easily been 300 pages because not much happened in this story until the end. I really enjoyed the first book with its complex take on infidelity and its rich world building, but that was notably missing from this novel.
Also, I'm definitely not rooting for Cameron, the man who currently seems to be the one Jess is going to end up with in this love triangle. His characterization is some of the poorest I've ever seen. In the first novel, he was an intriguing, mild mannered, mysterious figure from the heroine's past, and a great contrast to Jack's dominant and threatening personality.
In Black Oak Burning, he's no longer the heroine's love lorn friend from college. He's suddenly this uber alpha caveman who's obsessed with Jess and wants to have sex with her like every freaking second and I don't exactly know how we got there.
I know he's in love with her but the author is constantly telling the reader how it happened as opposed to showing how it happened. Cameron is always saying "When we were in college you saved my life, Jess. You took me to bunch of different political protests which made me realize I should care about other people and fed me a bunch of vegan meals when I was too depressed to eat and when I didn't have your beautiful, environmentally conscious soul around me, I wanted to kill myself. I was just a stuffy rich asshole until you taught me about climate change and how to recycle. Remember that?"
Like... no, I don't. Because it wasn't in the novel, so I have no feelings about what you're saying. Instead of having pages and pages of Jess brooding about her life or having sex with Cameron, maybe there could have been flashbacks to when they first met in college. Same with Jack. The author did a better job with his and Jess' relationship because they were actually married in the first book and we got to see them interact in normal situations, and their past was slowly revealed as opposed to with Cameron, where he just constantly talks about it, but still. There was hardly any foundation to either of these relationships.
In the first novel, there's so much tension and the plotting is amazing so you don't notice as much. In Black Oak Burning, when you're just stuck with Cameron and Jess being overly sentimental and annoying, it's really obvious.
There's a scene that is supposed to be really cute where Jess gets jealous over a waitress flirting with Cameron, so she tells the waitress she has no soul for not having a recycling bin at her job. Just....
I am all for recycling, and taking care of the environment, but come on. Child abusers have no soul. People who forget to recycle? Not so much. I feel like this was supposed to be an endearing moment from the way Cameron reacted, but it just took me out of the story as it was so over the top and not realistic in the least. Nobody talks like that in real life.
And Cameron. Oh my gosh, why does he have to even open his mouth? Every single scene he's like " I love you, you're the light of my life, angel. Without you, I'm drowning. I'd die if you left me. Let's have sex. I am so broken inside. I don't deserve you, baby. Let's have some more sex. Remember when we were friends in college?"
I didn't think any hero could trump my hatred for Manning Sutter from the Something in the Way Series by Jessica Hawkins, but Cameron is slowly but steadily becoming my most hated hero of all time.
I'm continuing to read this series because I am really intrigued about where the story is going, and I hope Jack gets a redemption arc and ends up with Jess. It's not likely. I know I'm stupid, and that Cameron is probably going to be the guy she ends up with, but I can't give up hope. Jack is so much more flawed and complex than Cameron is. (not that he doesn't have his moments of being just as annoying, to be fair)
The next novel is going to have multiple POVs, so hopefully because of that the depth will return to the relationships in this series. Also, hopefully something will finally happen with the society that is trying to control all three of them. There's been a lot of empty threats and missed opportunities but the kidnapping scene at the end was genuinely scary for a moment there so I wouldn't be upset if there's more of that in the third book and less brooding.
Like please, no more having pages and pages of Jess talking to her family and friends about her divorce. Give me something interesting. The society is what I'm reading for.
TW: brief dub con
Black Oak Burning was almost 500 pages but it could have easily been 300 pages because not much happened in this story until the end. I really enjoyed the first book with its complex take on infidelity and its rich world building, but that was notably missing from this novel.
Also, I'm definitely not rooting for Cameron, the man who currently seems to be the one Jess is going to end up with in this love triangle. His characterization is some of the poorest I've ever seen. In the first novel, he was an intriguing, mild mannered, mysterious figure from the heroine's past, and a great contrast to Jack's dominant and threatening personality.
In Black Oak Burning, he's no longer the heroine's love lorn friend from college. He's suddenly this uber alpha caveman who's obsessed with Jess and wants to have sex with her like every freaking second and I don't exactly know how we got there.
I know he's in love with her but the author is constantly telling the reader how it happened as opposed to showing how it happened. Cameron is always saying "When we were in college you saved my life, Jess. You took me to bunch of different political protests which made me realize I should care about other people and fed me a bunch of vegan meals when I was too depressed to eat and when I didn't have your beautiful, environmentally conscious soul around me, I wanted to kill myself. I was just a stuffy rich asshole until you taught me about climate change and how to recycle. Remember that?"
Like... no, I don't. Because it wasn't in the novel, so I have no feelings about what you're saying. Instead of having pages and pages of Jess brooding about her life or having sex with Cameron, maybe there could have been flashbacks to when they first met in college. Same with Jack. The author did a better job with his and Jess' relationship because they were actually married in the first book and we got to see them interact in normal situations, and their past was slowly revealed as opposed to with Cameron, where he just constantly talks about it, but still. There was hardly any foundation to either of these relationships.
In the first novel, there's so much tension and the plotting is amazing so you don't notice as much. In Black Oak Burning, when you're just stuck with Cameron and Jess being overly sentimental and annoying, it's really obvious.
There's a scene that is supposed to be really cute where Jess gets jealous over a waitress flirting with Cameron, so she tells the waitress she has no soul for not having a recycling bin at her job. Just....
I am all for recycling, and taking care of the environment, but come on. Child abusers have no soul. People who forget to recycle? Not so much. I feel like this was supposed to be an endearing moment from the way Cameron reacted, but it just took me out of the story as it was so over the top and not realistic in the least. Nobody talks like that in real life.
And Cameron. Oh my gosh, why does he have to even open his mouth? Every single scene he's like " I love you, you're the light of my life, angel. Without you, I'm drowning. I'd die if you left me. Let's have sex. I am so broken inside. I don't deserve you, baby. Let's have some more sex. Remember when we were friends in college?"
I didn't think any hero could trump my hatred for Manning Sutter from the Something in the Way Series by Jessica Hawkins, but Cameron is slowly but steadily becoming my most hated hero of all time.
I'm continuing to read this series because I am really intrigued about where the story is going, and I hope Jack gets a redemption arc and ends up with Jess. It's not likely. I know I'm stupid, and that Cameron is probably going to be the guy she ends up with, but I can't give up hope. Jack is so much more flawed and complex than Cameron is. (not that he doesn't have his moments of being just as annoying, to be fair)
The next novel is going to have multiple POVs, so hopefully because of that the depth will return to the relationships in this series. Also, hopefully something will finally happen with the society that is trying to control all three of them. There's been a lot of empty threats and missed opportunities but the kidnapping scene at the end was genuinely scary for a moment there so I wouldn't be upset if there's more of that in the third book and less brooding.
Like please, no more having pages and pages of Jess talking to her family and friends about her divorce. Give me something interesting. The society is what I'm reading for.
TW: brief dub con
September 4, 2021
Good grief. Juvenile writing prose. Unrealistic dialogue. A more experienced writer may have been able to pull off this storyline. The inner dialogue was repetitive and took up 50% of the book. The overall execution was bumpy, like a road with too many potholes.
August 26, 2025
This book was packed with LOTS and LOTS and LOTS of pointless FILLER and endless INNER DIALOGUE. Without all that, it’d probably be 150 pages or less. It got so repetitive that I caught myself skimming just to get through it.
Jess didn’t show an ounce of character growth in book two. She felt pretty pathetic - way too dependent on the men in her life for even a hint of happiness, and with zero personality to speak of. I wanted her to channel all that hurt into some rage. And can someone please stop her from confessing her love for Cam so early? UGH. Every time she went on one of her environmentalist rants, I wanted to die from secondhand embarrassment and tape her mouth shut.
Both love interests - Jack and Cam - were basically the same guy. Cam was literally just Jack without the cheating and heavy trauma. Judging by how things are going, Jess is probably ending up with Cam, and while I kinda like him (even if he’s BORING), it just feels so predictable. He’s her shining knight, but I’m not here for it. For the sake of the story - and because this book was so uneventful - he’s my last pick. Sorry, not sorry.
The whole time I kept yelling, WHERE THE FUCK IS JACK? By the end, I was oddly rooting for him - maybe because he’s more possessive and dynamic than Cam. I want to save him… but I also want him to truly suffer for his cheating. Is a redemption arc coming??
AND HOLY SHIT, DO I WANT SEBASTIAN GRAVIER TO BE ENDGAME IF IT’S NOT JACK. He’s a little shit right now, but PLS 🙏🏼. His character has so much depth. Give me a psychopath who can’t feel emotions falling for a good girl any day. Just make sure he gets jealous and possessive over Jess or it’s a no-go.
Jess didn’t show an ounce of character growth in book two. She felt pretty pathetic - way too dependent on the men in her life for even a hint of happiness, and with zero personality to speak of. I wanted her to channel all that hurt into some rage. And can someone please stop her from confessing her love for Cam so early? UGH. Every time she went on one of her environmentalist rants, I wanted to die from secondhand embarrassment and tape her mouth shut.
Both love interests - Jack and Cam - were basically the same guy. Cam was literally just Jack without the cheating and heavy trauma. Judging by how things are going, Jess is probably ending up with Cam, and while I kinda like him (even if he’s BORING), it just feels so predictable. He’s her shining knight, but I’m not here for it. For the sake of the story - and because this book was so uneventful - he’s my last pick. Sorry, not sorry.
The whole time I kept yelling, WHERE THE FUCK IS JACK? By the end, I was oddly rooting for him - maybe because he’s more possessive and dynamic than Cam. I want to save him… but I also want him to truly suffer for his cheating. Is a redemption arc coming??
AND HOLY SHIT, DO I WANT SEBASTIAN GRAVIER TO BE ENDGAME IF IT’S NOT JACK. He’s a little shit right now, but PLS 🙏🏼. His character has so much depth. Give me a psychopath who can’t feel emotions falling for a good girl any day. Just make sure he gets jealous and possessive over Jess or it’s a no-go.
December 28, 2020
I was impressed by the 1st book of the saga that haunted me for days but black oak burning was unfortunately a miss for me.
A huge part of it being the relationship between Jessy and Cameron. I found difficult to believe in this love story because there isn't any real actual development of it, it happened way too fast. Him screaming how much he loves and couldn't leave without her, how she was in his blood etc after spending a few days with her was just too much and didn't make any sense. Also my issue with Cameron's character is that the author didn't find a way to differenciate him from jack. They were saying the exact same thing to Jessy, speaking the same, feelings the same, it was disturbing. I wanted to root for him and his relationship with Jessy but the execution of it all felt short.
Also Jessy being desired by every man in Manhattan just made me rolled my eyes.
I would have been interested in seeing Jack's redemption arc but from the way the relationship cameron/jessy and jessy/jack was written in this book it's cleared she gonna end up with Cameron and also Jack had zero development as a character.
I connect to jessy character's in first book, her emotional turmoil, but still her strength and resiliance, but I honestly just found her annoying in this one, perpually horny in awe of those "gods like warrior bodies."
To conclude the entire society/resistance aspect just don't really grabbed me anymore, Cameron as a hero don't interest me and his relationship with Jessy didn't convince me, so I don't think I'll be reading the next books.
A huge part of it being the relationship between Jessy and Cameron. I found difficult to believe in this love story because there isn't any real actual development of it, it happened way too fast. Him screaming how much he loves and couldn't leave without her, how she was in his blood etc after spending a few days with her was just too much and didn't make any sense. Also my issue with Cameron's character is that the author didn't find a way to differenciate him from jack. They were saying the exact same thing to Jessy, speaking the same, feelings the same, it was disturbing. I wanted to root for him and his relationship with Jessy but the execution of it all felt short.
Also Jessy being desired by every man in Manhattan just made me rolled my eyes.
I would have been interested in seeing Jack's redemption arc but from the way the relationship cameron/jessy and jessy/jack was written in this book it's cleared she gonna end up with Cameron and also Jack had zero development as a character.
I connect to jessy character's in first book, her emotional turmoil, but still her strength and resiliance, but I honestly just found her annoying in this one, perpually horny in awe of those "gods like warrior bodies."
To conclude the entire society/resistance aspect just don't really grabbed me anymore, Cameron as a hero don't interest me and his relationship with Jessy didn't convince me, so I don't think I'll be reading the next books.
May 12, 2024
One star for demonizing the kink lifestyle. I hated probably 90% of this book. Good ideas but poor writing techniques really bog this down. I’m only really intrigued when Jack shows up. Also I kinda agree with Jack that Cam is the one putting her in all the danger, not to mention the danger he is himself. Really curious about how these set ups are going to pay off, so I will probably finish the series despite so many things about it driving me bonkers. Like another reviewer said, maybe it’s the masochist in me. Or the intrigue of learning ways to ruin perfectly good story deas with poor execution.
December 27, 2020
You won't be able to put this down!!!
OMG!! What a book!! When I first read book one in this series I became addicted and completely hooked on these characters and the story, I couldn't wait to read more and to see what journey Monique took these characters on in this book two.....what a journey it is proving to be!
In this book we delve more deeply into Cam's back story, and his love of Jess! I just loved his devotion, protectiveness and domination of Jess. The heat and sexual chemistry between these two was off the charts...... to be honest there was a LOT of sexual chemistry between quite a few characters and some of the sexual scenes were intense.....this was most definetly a steamy read!!!
For me though this story has it all....Monique has a gift and a talent to write stories that stay with you.... that you think about long after you've finished reading!! Stories with intense, controlling, dominating and sexy alphas! Heroines who show weakness but who have an inner strength and who love with their whole heart and soul. The plot is full of betrayals, suspense, raw emotion and there was also a dark edge to the plot.....quite simply this series is amazing!! I can't recommend it more highly and is a Must read for anyone who enjoys a darker, intense and thrilling romance!
Monique thank you.....incase its not clear i loved it!! ❤
OMG!! What a book!! When I first read book one in this series I became addicted and completely hooked on these characters and the story, I couldn't wait to read more and to see what journey Monique took these characters on in this book two.....what a journey it is proving to be!
In this book we delve more deeply into Cam's back story, and his love of Jess! I just loved his devotion, protectiveness and domination of Jess. The heat and sexual chemistry between these two was off the charts...... to be honest there was a LOT of sexual chemistry between quite a few characters and some of the sexual scenes were intense.....this was most definetly a steamy read!!!
For me though this story has it all....Monique has a gift and a talent to write stories that stay with you.... that you think about long after you've finished reading!! Stories with intense, controlling, dominating and sexy alphas! Heroines who show weakness but who have an inner strength and who love with their whole heart and soul. The plot is full of betrayals, suspense, raw emotion and there was also a dark edge to the plot.....quite simply this series is amazing!! I can't recommend it more highly and is a Must read for anyone who enjoys a darker, intense and thrilling romance!
Monique thank you.....incase its not clear i loved it!! ❤
August 13, 2021
Review for the entire series !
This made me so mad! so, so mad! The H cheats for months because "he has to", because " he feels like he doesn't belong with someone good as the heroine", and because he has the need to self-destruct. The heroine finds out and she forgives him because he loves him very very very much! *they are married*.
Jack, the cheater is very possessive and controlling, and he keeps telling the heroine that she is his wife, his " property". Really? I would have divorced him instantly for that s***it! Some weeks after their reconciliation, the heroine sees Jack and OW having sex again..yeah, the as**le did it again. This time, she leaves, and he asks her to come back..and maybe to leave him be like this when tey are not together. :)) yeah, he had the audacity to ask her to let him cheat because he loves her and he is " always coming back".
Anyway, the heroine was a doormat, the H was an as***le, the plot was stupid and the execution ridiculous. After I skip read the 3 th book I found ut that the author changed her mind and made this a 5 books series * it begun as a 3 book series*. The heroine is now wanted by 3 guys, one the leader of a secret society, and she is heartbroken because she doesn't think she can forgive Jack...
This made me so mad! so, so mad! The H cheats for months because "he has to", because " he feels like he doesn't belong with someone good as the heroine", and because he has the need to self-destruct. The heroine finds out and she forgives him because he loves him very very very much! *they are married*.
Jack, the cheater is very possessive and controlling, and he keeps telling the heroine that she is his wife, his " property". Really? I would have divorced him instantly for that s***it! Some weeks after their reconciliation, the heroine sees Jack and OW having sex again..yeah, the as**le did it again. This time, she leaves, and he asks her to come back..and maybe to leave him be like this when tey are not together. :)) yeah, he had the audacity to ask her to let him cheat because he loves her and he is " always coming back".
Anyway, the heroine was a doormat, the H was an as***le, the plot was stupid and the execution ridiculous. After I skip read the 3 th book I found ut that the author changed her mind and made this a 5 books series * it begun as a 3 book series*. The heroine is now wanted by 3 guys, one the leader of a secret society, and she is heartbroken because she doesn't think she can forgive Jack...
Read
April 7, 2021Dnf at 30%. Unfortunately not for me. The first book was much better.
April 18, 2021
Where to start...where to start...
I really liked the first book in the trilogy because it was an entertaining read and I didn’t know the direction it’d take. Book 2 is a sharp contrast from book 1. It’s long, drawn out, and boring. There are too many characters that I didn’t care about. The plot was ridiculous and Jessa was such an annoying character. The scene where she has a fit at a coffee shop for not having the right milk was the final straw for me. I don’t understand the constant use of “sir” or “madam” or “mr. O’Neil”. Plus the use of so many SAT words no one uses in their regular vernacular was distracting. She came off as high and mighty. I don’t understand why so many men are obsessed with her. She considers herself strong willed and yet, gives into Jack’s every whim. She yells at him for cheating, but folds when he threatens to make Cameron bleed. I cannot believe she wore the necklace he gave her for the entire book. A necklace Jack gave her after telling her to overlook his affairs like other wives. I don’t understand her loyalty to him. All this book had to do was write a fully developed affair between Cameron and Jessa. It would’ve been far more interesting to read about their development than some mysterious society where the rich and powerful fuck around- not exactly groundbreaking plot-wise. But that’s the thing- there was so much going on in this book but nothing was fully developed. Toward the last half of the book we learn Cameron had violent nightmares. He also wants her to fully submit to him in a scene I skimmed because the sex scenes became cringy. His character was so similar to Jack, they even sounded the same. I couldn’t differentiate between the two. He was written differently from book one. The banter between him and Jessa was so bad- like second hand embarrassment bad. This book was such a disappointment- one star.
I really liked the first book in the trilogy because it was an entertaining read and I didn’t know the direction it’d take. Book 2 is a sharp contrast from book 1. It’s long, drawn out, and boring. There are too many characters that I didn’t care about. The plot was ridiculous and Jessa was such an annoying character. The scene where she has a fit at a coffee shop for not having the right milk was the final straw for me. I don’t understand the constant use of “sir” or “madam” or “mr. O’Neil”. Plus the use of so many SAT words no one uses in their regular vernacular was distracting. She came off as high and mighty. I don’t understand why so many men are obsessed with her. She considers herself strong willed and yet, gives into Jack’s every whim. She yells at him for cheating, but folds when he threatens to make Cameron bleed. I cannot believe she wore the necklace he gave her for the entire book. A necklace Jack gave her after telling her to overlook his affairs like other wives. I don’t understand her loyalty to him. All this book had to do was write a fully developed affair between Cameron and Jessa. It would’ve been far more interesting to read about their development than some mysterious society where the rich and powerful fuck around- not exactly groundbreaking plot-wise. But that’s the thing- there was so much going on in this book but nothing was fully developed. Toward the last half of the book we learn Cameron had violent nightmares. He also wants her to fully submit to him in a scene I skimmed because the sex scenes became cringy. His character was so similar to Jack, they even sounded the same. I couldn’t differentiate between the two. He was written differently from book one. The banter between him and Jessa was so bad- like second hand embarrassment bad. This book was such a disappointment- one star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2022
Book 2 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First off, Cam is hotter than a forrest fire and I am now Team Cam. Yes, I know my review for book 1 says the same about Jack. Oddly, Cam is very much like Jack - with the things he says to Jess and how he acts. BUT (and this is a big one) Cam managed to get through a whole book without cheating on Jess. So, let’s hope Cam can find a way to save them all and make good on those promises of making her his slave, and getting her pregnant ...... whoo whee that man is HOT!
Jack! Seriously man? You disappoint me. I ended the first book cheering for you, hoping that you were misunderstood and could fix this mess you created. I don’t like you anymore, and I am officially breaking up with you.
Jess asks you if you can promise to not cheat again and what did you say? What did you say??? Sshh just be quiet and go play with Alex. This is a Cam and Jess friendly zone here and you are not allowed.
Ready for Book 3!!
——————————-
Update 2 hours after reading...... okay maybe I was a wee bit mad at Jack. Maybe I jumped the gun in breaking up with him “forever”.
First off, Cam is hotter than a forrest fire and I am now Team Cam. Yes, I know my review for book 1 says the same about Jack. Oddly, Cam is very much like Jack - with the things he says to Jess and how he acts. BUT (and this is a big one) Cam managed to get through a whole book without cheating on Jess. So, let’s hope Cam can find a way to save them all and make good on those promises of making her his slave, and getting her pregnant ...... whoo whee that man is HOT!
Jack! Seriously man? You disappoint me. I ended the first book cheering for you, hoping that you were misunderstood and could fix this mess you created. I don’t like you anymore, and I am officially breaking up with you.
Jess asks you if you can promise to not cheat again and what did you say? What did you say??? Sshh just be quiet and go play with Alex. This is a Cam and Jess friendly zone here and you are not allowed.
Ready for Book 3!!
——————————-
Update 2 hours after reading...... okay maybe I was a wee bit mad at Jack. Maybe I jumped the gun in breaking up with him “forever”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2021
The plot thickens
I'm at a loss as to what to say about this book. Am I the only one who feels like Cameron portrays the same dominant nature as Jack? Their love for Jess consumes them and I don't know who I should be rooting for! Cameron or Jack?
There are so many twists and I feel like Jess should just stay away from both Cameron and Jack for her own sanity. She is so conflicted as she doesn't want either of them getting hurt. What will she do to save herself and her family and friends?
I cannot wait for the next book!! The author had kept me on the edge from the 1st book. Hopefully the wait is not to long for Book 3.
I'm at a loss as to what to say about this book. Am I the only one who feels like Cameron portrays the same dominant nature as Jack? Their love for Jess consumes them and I don't know who I should be rooting for! Cameron or Jack?
There are so many twists and I feel like Jess should just stay away from both Cameron and Jack for her own sanity. She is so conflicted as she doesn't want either of them getting hurt. What will she do to save herself and her family and friends?
I cannot wait for the next book!! The author had kept me on the edge from the 1st book. Hopefully the wait is not to long for Book 3.
September 26, 2021
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars! Love triangle, book 2 was just as fabulous as book one and ridiculously intriguing. Off to read the next one.
January 3, 2021
Must read series!
Just truly not enough words for how good this series is! There are so many moving parts and really so much depth to each character. So glad to see their is going to be more than 1 book!
Just truly not enough words for how good this series is! There are so many moving parts and really so much depth to each character. So glad to see their is going to be more than 1 book!
November 30, 2021
it’s like a black hole …
I read the first book and only endured the second because I thought it might at least provide some closure. If closure is what you are looking for, don’t even begin the series. The male leads are mentally ill. Previous trauma both referred to and implied aside, they are mentally ill. The author wants us to believe that their love for this “pure” woman drives them to want to be better. Nope, not buying that. The female lead is as sadistic as they are. She plays them against each other. This book is not seductive. It is not erotic. It is not an exploration into the world of BDSM like others that have been written. It is a repetitive narrative of narcissism, obsession, and is absent of redeeming value. I wish I could unread this. It was like not being able to look away from a train wreck.
I read the first book and only endured the second because I thought it might at least provide some closure. If closure is what you are looking for, don’t even begin the series. The male leads are mentally ill. Previous trauma both referred to and implied aside, they are mentally ill. The author wants us to believe that their love for this “pure” woman drives them to want to be better. Nope, not buying that. The female lead is as sadistic as they are. She plays them against each other. This book is not seductive. It is not erotic. It is not an exploration into the world of BDSM like others that have been written. It is a repetitive narrative of narcissism, obsession, and is absent of redeeming value. I wish I could unread this. It was like not being able to look away from a train wreck.
January 6, 2021
DNF @43%.
Ok I tried but it’s just so monotonous, barely anything happens, all the h can think about is sex, most of the dialogue is the h refusing help from anybody who offers then eventually gives in, or saying “Jack stop”, “Cam stop”, “dad stop”, etc. Every man she comes across either confesses his everlasting and overwhelming love for her and/or wants her body for some nefarious reason. It might actually be worse than book 1 in the boring department. I definitely won’t be coming back this time.
Ok I tried but it’s just so monotonous, barely anything happens, all the h can think about is sex, most of the dialogue is the h refusing help from anybody who offers then eventually gives in, or saying “Jack stop”, “Cam stop”, “dad stop”, etc. Every man she comes across either confesses his everlasting and overwhelming love for her and/or wants her body for some nefarious reason. It might actually be worse than book 1 in the boring department. I definitely won’t be coming back this time.
January 7, 2021
I was really looking forward to this book, as I really liked the 1st. But I'm sorry to say this one left me a bit 'meh'. Not a lot really happened except jess being so bloody indecisive about cam/jack. Make up your frikin mind woman ! I'd kick both of them to the curb , with their ' you belong to me , you're mine, I can't live without you ,alpha macho bullshit. This theme was constant through the book and became very tiresome. Nothing really happens until 3/4 of the way through the book and even then I struggled to keep reading. Not sure if I'll bother with the 3rd instalment
January 17, 2022
Very long winded and repetitive
This book is ok. It’s a great story but it is sooo drawn out. Usually I like that in a series but I think she tried to draw this out by just repeating conversations over and over. I have skipped whole pages because I’ve basically read the same thing previously in the book. The heroine is also really really weak which is starting to annoy me. Despite the most heinous things happening to her she keeps going back and never stands up for herself. I’m not sure k have the patience to move on to the next book.
This book is ok. It’s a great story but it is sooo drawn out. Usually I like that in a series but I think she tried to draw this out by just repeating conversations over and over. I have skipped whole pages because I’ve basically read the same thing previously in the book. The heroine is also really really weak which is starting to annoy me. Despite the most heinous things happening to her she keeps going back and never stands up for herself. I’m not sure k have the patience to move on to the next book.
January 20, 2021
No,no,no!
I thought the trilogy was complete, but come to find book 3 will not be available until April 30! Arrrggh! I can not deal with being left in limbo on this intriguing storyline that sucked me in from page one.This is a layered tale that begins with the h's discovery that her adoring husband is a serial cheater. Best to dive in blind,but rather than suffer like me,I might advise you wait closer to the release of its finale!
I thought the trilogy was complete, but come to find book 3 will not be available until April 30! Arrrggh! I can not deal with being left in limbo on this intriguing storyline that sucked me in from page one.This is a layered tale that begins with the h's discovery that her adoring husband is a serial cheater. Best to dive in blind,but rather than suffer like me,I might advise you wait closer to the release of its finale!
January 1, 2021
Wow...Who gave this author a pen? Because I seriously need to buy that person a drink! :) I loved this book so much! This story opens with where things left off in the last book, Enter the Black Oak. In this story, Jack is still desperate to keep his wife, Jess, within his grasp, despite his past misgivings and endless promises to change for her. He confronts both Jess and Cam at one of Cameron's family properties, which leads to animosity and violence between them both. Jess is going through with the motions of beginning her divorce paperwork from Jack, settling matters with her family attorney and planning on submitting the paperwork in mere months despite her attempting to dampen the soft spot she still has for her husband, Jack. All the while, her close friend Cam (whom is madly in love with her but might have unclear motives of his own) urges her to keep herself within his company for her protection, which leads to him somewhat taking advantage of the closeness of their relationship as well as the fragility of her newfound, broken heart.
In this follow-up, there are many new characters we meet, most notably Sebastian Gravier (who is the powerful and feared leader of this underground secret society of libertines) whom has been rumored to have a dark and twisted past, which the author hints at in this story, but leaves several questions still on my mind as to who is exactly good and righteous here, and who is the villain? Despite his horrendous past, which is mentioned in this story, he has nothing but respect for Jess and treats her with such, when they finally meet for the first time in this book, under certainly strenuous circumstances, that are out of her control. In fact, I might slightly believe he has a somewhat muddled soft spot for her, I would absolutely love it if there were more scenes between them in future books. It almost leaves the reader wondering if Jess reminds him of his late wife....but again, you cannot really discern motives or if he is truly a big baddie villain here or if he has a soft spot for her and may even be trying to protect her, as many men seem to when around her.
I think he is probably capable of true evil but she may be a fascination to him, in which he has some plans for her in the near future. All of these new characters make you feel highly suspicious of their motives, all the while confusion sets in mostly because the dynamics with regards to Jack and Cam seem to make the reader more and more confused as to who is hiding secrets and who will be the one to make due on past transgressions. Jack is still in the clutches of this powerful, enigmatic group of blood-thirsty people (including the treacherous Alexandra Frost) who will stop at nothing until Jack self-destructs, and in doing so, hurting his beloved Jess in the process, and Cam is also a highly suspicious character whom you might at first cheer for, but ultimately you can't help wondering if he has plans of his own that are hidden away from everyone as well.
In this story, we still aren't sure who is clearly acting on behalf of the society to fool the soft, sweet and innocent minded Jess with sadistic intentions and who might be protecting her by intentionally hurting her. There is such a vast web here that has been spun and I still have no clear idea as to who is good and who is bad. Is there such a thing? With this story, you might just be cheering on not just one...but perhaps a few different characters! Even if you struggle with your moral compass to do so, you can't help but want to cheer these alpha men on, even if you have a gut feeling not all is well within these pages and there is certainly more to the story. I absolutely love the feelings that this story stirred within me. Stories that keep me invested, emotional, and devoted, as well as continually interested are my favorite types of tales. These are passionate, human characters that remind me of past stories that I've read in which there are two sides to each story, there is pain, secrets, betrayal, and there isn't just one hero, and this story keeps you in the absolute throes of anticipation on what will happen next.
The only slight issue that I had with this story was some minor grammar errors and typos. Other than that, this story was so well constructed and I cannot wait to read book 3! April can't get here soon enough! I love seeing how these completely powerful, dominant yet flawed figures cannot help but cave to the soft and delicate aura of the female lead, Jess. The heroine isn't the type to toy with men's emotions, she truly cares for each of them, and doesn't want either of these men to be hurt in the process of the story, but she can't help her feelings, even if they betray her at times. Also, she hasn't quite discovered yet how much power she unknowingly holds over these male leads and without any intention of it, because she cares so much for each of them, but after everything she went through in this story, I have a feeling based on how this one ended, that we will be seeing her inner strength come out soon enough. 5 Black Oak stars!!!!
Breakdown:
*Infidelity/Cheating
*Love Triangle
*OW drama (other woman)
*Secret Society
*Manhattan Elite/Upper Echelon/Rich Society
*Dominant Alpha Men/Submissive women
*Underground/Elite/Secret club
*Male leads with broken pasts
*Sweet, sassy/docile heroine whom is slowly finding her voice again
*Bigger world/new characters that are slowly being unveiled
*Lead characters with questionable motives
*heroine in the midst of seeking divorce
*Complexities of infidelity in a secret society atmosphere
December 26, 2020
So.....I've just read book 1 and 2 back to back after stumbling upon book 1 just before Christmas. I honestly don't know how to describe my feelings. I'm enthralled, intrigued, desperate for a conclusion, yet I'm frustrated, torn, and literally in knots about this story and the author's announcement at the end. It's been a while since I've felt pulled in opposite directions about a series. The story seemed mostly clear after reading book one but after finishing book 2 I'm both excited and a little hesitant.
So many new characters were introduced to us in this book. While I enjoyed some of the new characters and am curious about future books, I felt it did take a little away from the main story of Cameron, Jack, and Jess. My fear is with the introduction of so many new characters and storylines the original story will get lost or get too broad and lose its appeal.
We did get to know Cameron more in this book and I have to say I'm still on the fence with him. I still feel there are significant things we don't know about his story and it leaves me distrusting of him and on edge. Though I will say that scene in the observatory room was one of my favorite.
Jess....oh Jess. Oh my goodness, she is such a contradiction. After being totally submissive to the men in her life in book 1 suddenly she's no longer submissive and has a backbone. I do appreciate her fire but she confuses me at times. Her constant promises that she breaks or has no intentions of keeping! *facepalm* LOL I told you I'm torn!
All men coveting her perfect body though became a bit OTT. Give these people an imperfection somewhere because though it's fictional, it's seriously unrealistic that anyone could be so perfect. Maybe that's why I'm so drawn to Jack. He has flaws, faults, and freely admits to them.
Speaking of Jack, there was not near enough of him in this book, but boy when he made an entrance he made it hugely! I seriously need more of that raw masculinity and primal energy of his!
In conclusion, this author has tied me in so many knots that I'm not sure how I will survive until April to continue this addictive series! In a year that left me more than underwhelmed by so many books, something as unique and different as this series brings me so much happiness. The conflict I feel and the need to discuss this series with someone that has also dived into this world is riding me hard and is just small proof of this author's talent.
So many new characters were introduced to us in this book. While I enjoyed some of the new characters and am curious about future books, I felt it did take a little away from the main story of Cameron, Jack, and Jess. My fear is with the introduction of so many new characters and storylines the original story will get lost or get too broad and lose its appeal.
We did get to know Cameron more in this book and I have to say I'm still on the fence with him. I still feel there are significant things we don't know about his story and it leaves me distrusting of him and on edge. Though I will say that scene in the observatory room was one of my favorite.
Jess....oh Jess. Oh my goodness, she is such a contradiction. After being totally submissive to the men in her life in book 1 suddenly she's no longer submissive and has a backbone. I do appreciate her fire but she confuses me at times. Her constant promises that she breaks or has no intentions of keeping! *facepalm* LOL I told you I'm torn!
All men coveting her perfect body though became a bit OTT. Give these people an imperfection somewhere because though it's fictional, it's seriously unrealistic that anyone could be so perfect. Maybe that's why I'm so drawn to Jack. He has flaws, faults, and freely admits to them.
Speaking of Jack, there was not near enough of him in this book, but boy when he made an entrance he made it hugely! I seriously need more of that raw masculinity and primal energy of his!
In conclusion, this author has tied me in so many knots that I'm not sure how I will survive until April to continue this addictive series! In a year that left me more than underwhelmed by so many books, something as unique and different as this series brings me so much happiness. The conflict I feel and the need to discuss this series with someone that has also dived into this world is riding me hard and is just small proof of this author's talent.
May 5, 2023
This series is my all time favorite series!!! In this book you’ll fall in love with Cam. I’m still furious with Jack for cheating on Jess. You also get to venture into the Black Oak exclusive club. AND most importantly you get to meet Sebastian and lots of other deviant souls who will pose a threat to Jess.
Cam - A man with his own demons. Once upon a time Jack’s best friend. Truly and deeply loves Jess!
Jess - Still reeling and hurting from Jacks betrayal. Let’s curiosity lead her to enter the Black Oak. Has known Cam longer than Jack. Learns just how long and deeply Cam’s been in love with her.
This book lays the groundwork for the rest of the series. Trust me you want to read this whole series!!! It’s amazing!!!!!
Go get your copies!!!
Cam - A man with his own demons. Once upon a time Jack’s best friend. Truly and deeply loves Jess!
Jess - Still reeling and hurting from Jacks betrayal. Let’s curiosity lead her to enter the Black Oak. Has known Cam longer than Jack. Learns just how long and deeply Cam’s been in love with her.
This book lays the groundwork for the rest of the series. Trust me you want to read this whole series!!! It’s amazing!!!!!
Go get your copies!!!
August 6, 2021
Addicted
I am so addicted to this series that I am off to get the third book immediately.
The twists and turns of the characters, who to trust, who is telling the truth? Who is the traitor?
The relationships in this second book of the series are developed even more and I love the introduction of new characters. The reader is left not knowing who to trust and I honestly have no clue where this will end which is why I need the next book straight away.
I don’t usually read such dark novels but Edenwood constructs the characters and plot so well that I am completely addicted.
I am so addicted to this series that I am off to get the third book immediately.
The twists and turns of the characters, who to trust, who is telling the truth? Who is the traitor?
The relationships in this second book of the series are developed even more and I love the introduction of new characters. The reader is left not knowing who to trust and I honestly have no clue where this will end which is why I need the next book straight away.
I don’t usually read such dark novels but Edenwood constructs the characters and plot so well that I am completely addicted.
March 12, 2023
Bueno hasta aquí llego mi amor... No sigo con esta serie. Los personajes siguen siendo horribles, la trama una estupidez, y son seis libros larguísimos de esto? Nop, no es para mi. Lo peor de todo, Jess como dije en el primer libro, mujer más patética no puede haber. Jack realmente lo odio y como por lo que veo va a seguir siendo protagonista hasta el final, no quiero perder tanto tiempo para leer un final feliz para él. No ese hombre no se lo merece. Y la escritura de la autora? Literalmente copia y pega los mismos diálogos y reflexiones de la prota todo el tiempo. De terror.
January 25, 2021
Wow
I am very surprised how Book 2 has developed! I already thoroughly enjoyed the first installment, so this one definitely has me on edge for more.
Jess' character development is amazing and so in depth. I can really feel her fear, confusion, and self-doubt. Jack is my favorite bad boy to try to understand, and I'm still rooting for him to make it out of the Society. And Cam.... I cannot wait to see how twisted he truly is. He has so much potential!
I am very surprised how Book 2 has developed! I already thoroughly enjoyed the first installment, so this one definitely has me on edge for more.
Jess' character development is amazing and so in depth. I can really feel her fear, confusion, and self-doubt. Jack is my favorite bad boy to try to understand, and I'm still rooting for him to make it out of the Society. And Cam.... I cannot wait to see how twisted he truly is. He has so much potential!
October 12, 2022
every single character in these books are mentally deranged and it never seems to move forward 💀🥴
May 1, 2024
This book is way worse than the first. It's just more of the same, and now the sex cult has come to play front and center, it's also very confusing and repetitive. I frankly started skimming because I really wasn't interested in most of the stuff revolving around the cult. I get this story is supposed to be a grand saga/sex cult/lives of the rich and famous tale, but I find it a bit boring. Strangely, considering this is sold as a dark billionaire romance, it reminds more like a MC drama. The only thing missing is someone calling someone else "sweet butt". You have just an incredible about of drama and everyone sleeping with everyone else. Plus, there are a plethora of people who are just hanging around. Sometimes an author can get too caught in their grand tale and lose the focus of the story and characters around them. So...you just get one big mess. That's what you have here.
January 3, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ SOLID STARS!!!
I love this book.... I’m desperately waiting for the third installment!!!! Gosh... April 30th can’t come soon enough!!!
This book lets us explore more Cameron’s life and the relationship he and Jessynia have!
This book also introduces a lot of new characters and you really get to know A LOT about what’s happened in the society and how powerful they are!
The angst is amazing.... I loved every minute of it!!!!
You just don’t know which way this whole thing it’s going to go.... I feel like in the first book, I was still enthralled in the Jackson Wilder frenzy but this book helped me break free!!!
His assholeness wrapped into his undeniable alpha dominant hypocrisy almost makes me want to punch him!
He cheats but yet....
“What I do outside our marriage isn’t about love. It’s… a need that I can't control. It’s a drug. It’s a release of rage which has nothing to do with my love for you. You could… overlook it, like other wives do.”
His unrelenting HATRED for Cameron makes me root for Cameron even more!!!!
“if I find out that you have gone anywhere near Cameron O’Neill,” he growls, bringing thunder into the room, his forehead skimming mine, “there will be a war. It will annihilate me, and in exchange, I will annihilate him. I will rip out his insides and feed them to the fucking dogs.”
Book one I was definitely almost rooting for him but I find my self rooting for Cameron O’Neil!!!
THIRD BOOK NOW PLEASE!!!!
I love this book.... I’m desperately waiting for the third installment!!!! Gosh... April 30th can’t come soon enough!!!
This book lets us explore more Cameron’s life and the relationship he and Jessynia have!
This book also introduces a lot of new characters and you really get to know A LOT about what’s happened in the society and how powerful they are!
The angst is amazing.... I loved every minute of it!!!!
You just don’t know which way this whole thing it’s going to go.... I feel like in the first book, I was still enthralled in the Jackson Wilder frenzy but this book helped me break free!!!
His assholeness wrapped into his undeniable alpha dominant hypocrisy almost makes me want to punch him!
He cheats but yet....
“What I do outside our marriage isn’t about love. It’s… a need that I can't control. It’s a drug. It’s a release of rage which has nothing to do with my love for you. You could… overlook it, like other wives do.”
His unrelenting HATRED for Cameron makes me root for Cameron even more!!!!
“if I find out that you have gone anywhere near Cameron O’Neill,” he growls, bringing thunder into the room, his forehead skimming mine, “there will be a war. It will annihilate me, and in exchange, I will annihilate him. I will rip out his insides and feed them to the fucking dogs.”
Book one I was definitely almost rooting for him but I find my self rooting for Cameron O’Neil!!!
THIRD BOOK NOW PLEASE!!!!
January 16, 2021
The suspense !!! What will Jess do?? Who will Jess choose?? What depraved punishment awaits if she makes the wrong choice ?? What awaits if she makes the right one?? What is the right one?? OMG !!!! Edge of your seat stuff...... 2 books in and I can’t wait for what will unfold in the conclusion of this fabulous trilogy .
January 3, 2021
Black Oak Burning by Monique Edenwood was an absolutely, amazing read! This book had everything, a kick ass heroine and not one but twp alpha males that are passionately in love with our heroine. Jessynia or Jess is torn between her philandering husband Jack and his former best friend Cameron. Both men crave Jess physically and mentally. They keep her body, soul and mind tied in knots. Jess has a great group of friends that are supportive of her. They want to to stay true to herself. We are introduced to some new characters. They really fill in the back story. The book really explains the hold trauma and abuse can shape a person mentally and physically. The author did an outstanding job explaining the sexual abuse of both Jack and Cameron by the hands of a demented madwoman. The Society has now been turned into a den of sadistic sexual escapism. Part 2 is definitely explosive and page turning. The heat from the pages will definitely burn you. I highly recommend Black Oak Burning you will not be disappointed. Cameron has my heart! There is a Jess in all of us. I admire Jess. She is loyal, compassionate and loving 200%. My top read for a long time!
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