Breaking Belles Part 1

Whether you're discovering this dynamic pair of authors for the first time or you've been previously introduced to their work, this collection of the first three books to Alta Hensley and Stasia Black's dark and twisted series "Breaking Belles" is a must-have for anyone to get lost in. The power of these stories immediately sucked me in and I became vested immediately. Included are:

1. ELEGANT SINS
For goodness sakes, throw away everything you THINK you know about a secret society, the rich elite who belong to it, and the up and coming generation that want to join. Stasia Black & Alta Hensley, both in the 'one of my favorite author category,' combine talents and have created a mind-boggling, nerve-wracking, heart-stopping, heartfelt, romantic book I've read with a secret society. The personalities of the characters and side characters were so perfectly flawed, it was easy to relate to their emotions and reactions. 'Elegant Sins' is only book one of the "Breaking Belles" series but with that being said, if book one is this good, I can't wait for Sully's story in 'Beautiful Lies'.

2. BEAUTIFUL LIES
There is just no way to read this book without being immediately sucked into the very vortex of the world Stasia Black and Alta Hensley have created in "Breaking Belles". The absolute intensity of emotion these characters bring to the storyline truly had me feeling each and every one of them. My heart broke for both Sully and Portia and their respective situations. And then when Sully was given the ultimate choice my heart nearly stopped!!! We did get to see Montgomery from 'Elegant Sins' and I can hardly wait to see what comes from the rest of their group.

3. OPULENT OBSESSION
Alta Hensley and Stasia Black have definitely brought their A-game to book 3, 'Opulent Obsession'. Rafe Jackson was never supposed to be part of the initiation. He was the second son. The one that was overlooked and often ignored. Unfortunately, fate dealt him a cruel hand when his elder brother left a party intoxicated and didn't make it home. Now they seem like big shoes to fill with a lot of responsibility to the family. Is he even remotely capable? Then there's Fallon. Her mother was the housekeeper in the Jackson household the entire she was growing up. As a matter of fact, that's how they met at five years old. This story brings a lot of intensity, determination, unanswered questions, unresolved resentment and hurt feelings, betrayal, and a HUGE BOMBSHELL!! The Order of the Silver Ghost is still as depraved and evil as previously and these two characters will be put to the test in more ways than one. This absolutely kept me on the edge of my seat turning pages to see what was going to happen next. This is such a great storyline that will leave you with your mouth open from shock. I can't wait to see what surprises 'Inherited Malice' brings.

Kathryn

6,477 reviews22 followers

This is a boxset of the first three books in the Breaking Belles series. The books are compelling and dark and had me from the very beginning. Along with the darkness, it is twisted and complex. The world that is built is elaborate, captivating and intriguing. I really enjoyed reading this boxset and excited to read the sequels.

Glenda

779 reviews2 followers

Want to read

December 21, 2021

I LOVE this series! Each couple goes through similar but different trials with different reactions and results. Just when you think you know what comes next, she will throw you a surprise. Read my individual reviews for more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

1,088 reviews31 followers

November 25, 2021

Enter The World Of The Order! The Old Guard Is Mysterious, & The 109 Day Initiation Is A Dark & Dirty Test Of Mental Strength. This Set Includes Montgomery, Sullivan, & Rafe’s Trials Of Initiation. Don’t Forget To Download The Free Bonus Scene.

ABOUT THE BREAKING BELLES SERIES:

This is part one of the Breaking Belles series. It includes books one through three of what appears to be a six-part series. A number of characters are introduced in the first book and the set-up is complex, so I have summarized it here to serve as a quick reference. Book one is Montgomery and Grace’s story, Elegant Sins. In book two, Beautiful Lies, Sully and Portia are paired together to face the Trials. Rafe and Fallon’s story takes place in book three, Opulent Obsession.

NOTE: don’t’ forget to download the free bonus scene via the link at the back of the book. It is from one of Montgomery and Grace’s secret initiation rituals. See their story in book one, Elegant Sins.

Darlington County, Georgia is home to the state’s most affluent men and steeped in Southern charm and tradition. The historic Oleander Manor is home to tradition that goes back generations. It is owned by the Order of the Silver Ghost, a society of powerful and influential men. They don’t frown upon inviting new money to join, though their ranks are filled with old. These men represent sin, lies, and obsession. The atmosphere at the manor drips with malice, revenge, and corruption. They are blue-blood, and they pass their dark lifestyle on from one generation to the next. They operate under a law book, and ten Elders lead them through their various ceremonies and rituals.

As the story opens in book one, six recruits into the Order of the Silver Ghost are gathered at the manor. All are graduates of Darlington Preparatory Academy seven years ago. All work for their fathers. All turn twenty-five this year – the year that they become eligible to become members of the Order. Once they earn membership and the key passing ceremony takes place, the laws dictate that they take the reins of their family empires. All are committed to doing whatever it takes to maintain their wealth and continue the blue-blood legacy. Growing up, they had been permitted to participate in certain of the trials and events as spectators, so they have some ideas as to what to expect. They are all nervous, wondering if the trials will change them forever. It begins with a Ghost Ball, where a belle is chosen by the recruit and approved by the Order. In the following 109 days, the recruit is hunkered in at Oleander with his belle. During that time, the Order works to break her.

Montgomery Kingston is the guest of honor for the evening in book one. It is his Trial of Initiation. He is the first of the group’s graduating class to turn twenty-five and go through the trials. He is a pretty boy and loves his mama. He was captain of the football team, top of his class, and has worked tirelessly to grow the family business. He is listed in Forbes as one of the wealthiest men under the age of thirty. His father is one of the Elders of the Order. As such, Montgomery is expected to help run the Order one day.

Sully VanDoren is next to go through the trials. His Trial of Initiation is in book two. He doesn’t buy into the tradition. He hates anything to do with high society and Southern charm, so it isn’t surprising that he left Darlington years ago. Pessimistic and unhappy to be forced to participate, he reluctantly goes along because he will do what it takes to get the keys to his father’s kingdom.

Rafe Jackson’s Trial of Initiation takes place in book three. He doesn’t want to waste his time with the trials. He works the hardest of the group because his wealth is newer and not well-established. Keeping among the ranks of the wealthy is a daily struggle. He is stubborn and the most driven of the group. He will stop at nothing to be amongst his peers and in the Order. He did not grow up in the halls of the Oleander like his friends had. His family is new to the Order. Though this is how Rafe is originally described, it does not perfectly reflect his character as it unfolds in his book, Opulent Obsession.

Beau Radcliffe is the fourth recruit. Not much is known about him yet, though he does make some appearances in book three. He is probably more cold and detached than his friends.

Walker St. Claire is much like Montgomery. He was born and raised to be a Southern gentleman. His father is one of the Elders of the Order. Like Montgomery, Walker is expected to help run the Order one day.

Emmett Washington is a busy man, and attending Order gatherings is a waste of his precious time. He is similar to Rafe. He considers the trials to be a sick tradition. He is from new money and works hard to keep and increase that money. His father joined the Order over a decade ago.

A few issues merit mention. Although no overarching scheme is shared, it appears there could possibly be an end goal relating to the Order. Book two confirms that Montgomery has plans, but hopes to eventually make change from the inside with the help of his friends. Additionally, the initiation lasts 109 days, the length of which is explained in book two. 109 represents the Oleander’s street address.

Dates of the Trials of Initiation thus far include:

Montgomery Kingston: Saturday, September 16.
Sullivan VanDoren: Saturday, January 18.
Rafe Jackson: Saturday, May 10.

A review of each book follows.

ELEGANT SINS, BOOK 1:

Montgomery Kingston, twenty-five, is beginning his dreaded and unavoidable initiation into the Order of the Silver Ghost. It is the only way for him to join the society and to be given the keys to his father’s empire. Montgomery is the sixth powerful generation of Kingstons. He has a different relationship with each of his parents, Edward and Edith. He has never gotten along with his father, and it is doubtful that his father will be pleased with turning over the keys. Montgomery works for him, helping to run the business. While the company has never been squeaky clean, his father’s recent activity is arrogant and careless. Montgomery wants the keys to the empire so that he can clean up the company and bring it to new heights of success, and the only way to achieve that is by successfully getting through the dreaded initiation. Montgomery loves his mother, and though he cannot be open with her about everything relating to the Order, she certainly knows enough. Montgomery has had girlfriends, of course, but one-night stands and such are not his cup of tea. His mother kindly calms his nerves about leaving for his initiation by reminding him that the girls are there for their own reasons, too, and he should not let guilt get in his way. His father’s way of advice is to remind him that the girls aren’t marriageable material and not to get attached.

Grace Magnolia Morgan, twenty-three, lives in a dead-end life in a dead-end small town in Georgia, but she wants more. She doesn’t want to fall into her mother’s footsteps, and she wants out of her trailer park existence. She had a few boyfriends in high school and now has a live-in boyfriend. Kyle doesn’t seem to be able to keep a job more than six months, though, and recently has taken to living off of Grace’s hard work and playing video games. But Grace has a goal. She dreams of running her own restaurant, one with a sense of community. Toward that effort, she has been working on her education and is nearly done with her business degree. She is also saving money to secure a loan. There aren’t too many options for employment in her small town. It took her months to secure her position as a waitress at Bill’s Diner, where creepy men hit on the waitresses and sometimes feel entitled to a pinch. In her limited experience, Grace questions whether any man worth respecting exists out there. Especially after everything that happened on this day. But as she tries to get through the evening shift without falling apart, an older man in a tuxedo offers her an opportunity that sounds too good to be true. She doesn’t believe it is real, but her friend and coworker Delilah insists that she accept.

Montgomery and Grace’s story is sinfully dark and dangerous, yet surprisingly sweet and tender. The carefully detailed description takes the reader deep into the world of the Order. The old guard is mysterious, and though draped in tradition, members have room enough for interference. The initiation is a test of will, a test of mental strength more so than anything else. As they begin, Montgomery worries that they will be ruined by the experience. As they are thus tested, Montgomery and Grace show great restraint and respect for one another. It is wonderful to see that amidst such depravity, and despite what they agree to endure for the end goal, they do not succumb to corruption. Montgomery’s strength and restraint are remarkable given his upbringing and the respect he has desperately sought to earn from his father. Grace is not the typical Southern belle that Montgomery grew up around, but her willingness to work hard and to improve herself gives her strength of character that exceeds his expectations in a woman. Montgomery’s gentleman-like manners earn Grace’s respect. The couple eventually earns a happy ending.

Montgomery and Grace’s story of Southern charm and secret societies captivates. The story is beautifully written and plot-driven. It is complex. The characters are carefully crafted and realistic. Thrown together in a sequence of sick ceremonies and activities, Montgomery and Grace work together to stay sane and reach the end, no matter what it takes. The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Montgomery and Grace; the epilogue is in Sully VanDoren’s POV. I rate this book 4.5 stars.

BEAUTIFUL LIES, BOOK 2:

Sullivan VanDoren, presumably twenty-five, has just buried his father. He doesn’t want to be in Georgia or at the funeral for a man that he despised. He does not want to go through the Trial of Initiation into the Order of the Silver Ghost – a secret society that he once eagerly looked forward to joining. Those days are long gone. He does not even care about inheriting VanDoren Enterprises. His father’s company means nothing to him. Sully fled Georgia years ago, leaving behind the Southern traditions he learned to hate and everything to do with the Order that his father loved over even his own family. Sully ran away from responsibility and found escape on the sunny shores of California, surfing and presumably living off his inheritance. But he is back for his sister, the only person he feels truly loved by in his family. According to tradition, she is ineligible to inherit the family company. Their father’s will dictates that it must be owned by a member of the Order, and it is only for his teenage sister that Sully will submit to the demoralizing trials. Jasmine, still a teen, aspires to one day run VanDoren Enterprises herself. This is Sully’s motivation when he submits to the Trials on January eighteen.

Portia Collins, twenty-three, received an invitation that promised to be the answer to her dreams. After her father left years ago, things had been hard for her family. They were behind on rent and utilities for their trailer, and they really could use a miracle. The oldest of four girls, Portia loves her three sisters dearly. There isn’t anything she wouldn’t do for them, or so she thinks. Though she rightly presumes some of the nature of things she might be required to do should she be chosen belle, she is practical. And while others might argue that she is lowering herself to prostitution, she doesn’t see it that way. And the candidate himself is after control of a company – he is no better in her eyes. In her opinion, they are equals.

Sully and Portia’s dark and sinfully steamy story of family, loyalty, and secret societies keeps you on your toes. The story is nicely written and plot-driven. It is complex. The characters are carefully crafted and realistic. Thrown together in a sequence of sick ceremonies and activities, Sully and Portia try to survive without breaking. Fans will be happy that new Order member Montgomery Kingston plays a small role in this book. The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Sully and Portia; the epilogue is in Rafe Jackson’s POV. I rate this book four stars.

OPULENT OBSESSION, BOOK 3:

Rafe Jackson, twenty-five, spent his whole life feeling like an outsider. He is still haunted by the death of his older brother Timothy. The two were just one year apart and had been close despite the favoritism lavished upon Timothy. As the firstborn son, Timothy had meant the world to his parents. He represented the future of the Jackson family, and his parents accordingly poured all their hopes, dreams, and efforts into him and his success. He was a star athlete and valedictorian, and would one day take his place in the Order. He had died in an accident during Rafe’s senior year of high school, and Rafe’s world hadn’t been the same since. He and Timothy had been raised in a cold and quiet home. Without Timothy, Rafe felt lost. He is quick to blame himself for things and has thus quietly suffered for somehow not being there to prevent his brother’s accident.

But perhaps the biggest change brought about by Timothy’s death was the new expectation that Rafe would take his place in the Order. Unlike Timothy, Rafe had not been groomed his entire life for that eventuality. He had been unimportant and largely neglected growing up. He was thus not prepared for the pressure to live up to his brother’s standards. As his Trials approach, Rafe hopes to find the strength to make his family proud. Though he has his own money and could easily get a job if needed, he wants to join the Order more than anything – for Timothy and for his parents.

Fallon Perry, roughly twenty-five, returned to Darlington about two months ago. She had left midway through her senior year of high school. She never wanted to return to her childhood hometown, but she feels stuck. Jeoffrey Brown had been a wonderful boyfriend. They had been happy together in San Francisco, but she had suddenly come to the realization that they just weren’t on the same page. She suspected part of what held her back was her past, so she moved home temporarily for a long overdue visit with her mother, whom she adored. As a single mother, her mom had worked hard all her life to provide for Fallon, and Fallon hopes one day to be able to help her mom live a more comfortable life. But that day seems a long way off. Fallon is at a crossroads in life and despite all her bad memories, she found herself drawn back to Georgia – hopefully just for some closure before she moves on again. Being in Rafe’s presence again evokes so many contrary emotions that it is hard to settle on just one. They had been best friends since age five, and though he had other friends, too, he was her only real friend. When they got older her feelings had grown and began to change. But his rejection had hurt. And it made leaving easier. Retuning to Darlington has trudged up Fallon’s old insecurities.

Rafe and Fallon’s story has a rich history. Though they went their separate ways seven years ago, neither had entirely adjusted to life without the other. They begin the Trials as lost souls hoping to earn a solid future, but they are also forced to confront the past. Have the tissues ready! Both Rafe and Fallon’s stories will have you in tears. They have wonderful chemistry, but it is their deep friendship that drives their desire. Rafe and Fallon’s dark and sinfully steamy story of friendship, loss, and secret societies has a beautifully tearful ending. The story is nicely written and plot-driven. It is complex. The characters are carefully crafted and realistic. Thrown together in a sequence of sick ceremonies and activities, Rafe and Fallon try to survive without breaking. Fans will be happy that new Order member Montgomery Kingston plays a small role in this book. The story is written in first person. The POV alternates between Rafe and Fallon; the epilogue is in Beau Radcliffe’s POV. I rate this book four stars.

Lisette

157 reviews4 followers

Breaking Belles Part 1 is the first three books in the series and starts with Elegant Sins, the story of Montgomery Kingston's Trial of Initiation into the Order of the Silver Ghost. The idea behind this initiation is to test the mettle of the young man being considered to enter the order, that is the outward appearance of it, but in actuality it is a depraved ritual forced upon its members' sons. When a members' son reaches the age of twenty five they receive an invitation to "the trials of initiation" for the Order of the Silver Ghost, an organization that dates back to before the Civil War for the elite male members of southern blue blood society and it's basically a boys club of depravity. This initiation paves the way for the sons to take over for their fathers, gaining the reigns of the family businesses and getting all the money and power that comes with that. That is, if they pass the initiation and become members of the Order. During the initiation the young man is asked to choose a belle from twenty young women, who will be his partner for the process that follows. Each belle is offered an invitation and someone considered the dregs of proper society, a no one that anyone would miss should something happen to them. Montgomery chooses Grace Morgan, a diner waitress. The first thing to overcome is the first trial, they have to have sex to completion in front of the Order members. That's just the tip of the iceberg for the things they have to do to successfully complete the initiation and gain their desired outcomes. I'll leave you here and you'll have to get the book to discover what happens next. The second book, Beautiful Lies, covers the initiation of Sullivan "Sully" VanDoren and his chosen belle, Portia Collins. Portia has agreed to be a belle to help out her sisters, who she is raising on her own after her mother has passed and her father ducked out on the responsibility. There is also a secret she is keeping hidden which is the real reason she's doing it and it's a pretty devastating one. The trials are again depraved and truly test the growing bond that's developing between the two participants. Again I'll leave you here and you'll have to get the book to find out what happens in the end. Let's just say that it's an unpredictable, surprise ending, but a really good one! Finally we get to the last book, Opulent Obsession, where we meet Rafe Jackson, who isn't even supposed to be an initiate because he is the second born son of an order elder, but his older brother was killed in an auto accident. Rafe's deceased brother was the "golden child" of the family and he's always been the unseen son so he has a lot riding on this initiation. He gets paired wit someone from his past, Fallon Perry, who was his best friend until she disappeared to another school in a different state. Unfortunate circumstances have tossed them together to face these ungodly trials. They struggle to face the trials and have to learn to trust each other after past hurts they each endured, unbeknownst to the other one. There are secrets that eventually come to light and it brings them together even more. There are more sexual depraved trials that they must face and I'm going to leave you here so you'll have to get the book to find out what happens next. This three book starter set for the Breaking Belles series is definitely worth getting and I can highly recommend doing so. The stories are indeed dark and the imaginative depraved trials really set the books on fire. I will say that this set of books is not for everyone but if you like your romances dark then this is definitely a collection for you!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Linda

2,939 reviews15 followers

January 2, 2022

ELEGANT SINS: A generations old secret society requires a man and the woman of his choosing to endure a series of trials to prove his loyalty. Of course the trials basically revolve around sexual acts and humiliation of women who are treated as objects by a bunch of powerful old guys (although I don't see how that is proof of worthiness.) I know that sounds like I didn't like the book but the fact is, I really did enjoy it. The story is riveting and the connection between Montgomery and Grace is electric. I found it easy to suspend my disbelief and just appreciate this book for the dark and dirty, hot romance that it is. Plus it has a very satisfying ending. I love it when a villain gets their comeuppance. I am a fan of both authors. The writing is great and I genuinely cared about the characters.

BEAUTIFUL LIES: This is the second book of the dark and sexy Breaking Belles series and I loved it. It's Sully and Portia's turn to undergo the trials that the perverted members of The Order of the Silver Ghost set for them. For Sully it means saving his company and taking his rightful place in the secret society he despises. For Portia - well, that's her secret and I'm not going to share it - but failure is not an option.

This book is so riveting I couldn't put it down. Awesome writing and storytelling. It's dark, but not unbearably so, with plenty of tension, suspense, and passion. The characters are vividly drawn and genuine. Sully is pretty hateful at the start but undergoes significant change throughout the story thanks to the amazingly strong and forthright Portia, who gets under his skin and into his heart. I am addicted to this series.

OPULENT OBSESSION: Opulent Obsession is another riveting read in this emotional, dark, and addictive series about an ages old secret society and it's sick and twisted initiation. This is the third book and just as absorbing and intense as the first two. The outstanding writing by Stasia Black and Alta Hensley held me captive from the first page to the last. I read this entire book in one sitting because I couldn't tear myself away. I loved Fallon and Rafe, who are amazing and uniquely individual characters, just as much as Montgomery and Grace, and Sully and Portia, who came before them, in Elegant Sins and Beautiful Lies. Awesome read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Jacqueline

955 reviews6 followers

This is the story of 6 friends and their families expectation that they join a secret cult in order to inherit their wealth. The guys have to make it through the trial (initiation) to be accepted into the Order. The order chooses 20 Belles for the initiates to select from and they must choose one girl to accompany them through their trial. All of the women are selected because they are down on their luck and raised on the wrong side of the "highway". They are offered anything they want if they succeed and make it to the end.

This book is about the first three friends and their trials. Montgomery and Grace have an instant attraction and decide rather early on to work together to achieve their goals. It appears that Montgomery has an ulterior motive of transforming the order from the inside once he is initiated and provides an arcing plot in the rest of the books. Sully and Portia begin as enemies but after a couple of trials Sully recognizes the benefit of working together. Rafe and Fallon have history and were friends as children. Their story begins more as revenge (on Fallon's part) and works itself into a second chance romance.

I was on the fence about these books because bully romance generally is not my interest. It turns out the bully's in these stories are the Elders in the Order and not the initiates. The guys appear to be genuine and truly good guys. Their protective instincts are triggered with each of the girls and the endeavor to protect them. I will say that there are some disturbing sex scenes, power exchanges and a D/s theme throughout all of the stories that are forced on the initiates and the girls as a part of the trials. However all end in a HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Jenni

8,756 reviews63 followers

December 8, 2021

Elegant Sins- Montgomery and Grace come from to different worlds. Montgomery must complete his initiation to join the cub and Grace is the key, he must prove his worth in 109 days, Grace is desperate to turn her life around and the invitation offers her that chance but can they survive the 109 days? well written retelling take on Cinderella with twists steamy scenes, desires and more.

Beautiful Lies- In order for Sully to succeed in taking over his fathers company he must complete the societies rues, that's where Portia comes in. 109 days separate them from their goals but can they work together? well written engaging steamy, desire filled and more!

Opulent Obsession-Rafe and Fallon grew up as friends theirs souls connected like no other, though they have different destiny's, until tragedy strikes putting Rafe in high position in The Order of the Silver Ghost. Years go by and times have changed for the both of them and Rafes in for a surprise when the initiate of The Order of the Silver Ghost to pick a new belle, and Fallon is among the Belles. will Rafe choose the woman who never left his heart? can Fallon over look the boy who broke her heart is now a man with power and the means to look after her? they face many trials that bring up a lot of the past thats best left alone but will they be able to over come the odds for a HEA? this is a well written read with an intriguing story line that keeps you engaged through out. the characters stories have you in an emotional roller coaster ride.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Kelly DeMarco

1,921 reviews4 followers

December 8, 2021

Dark, mysterious, twisted and compelling must read dark romance
Breaking Belles Part 1: Books 1-3 by Alta Hensley and Stasia Black is full of all things dark romance with fascinating characters that are often conflicted or downright apathetic. Each book features a different couple with different reasons for their attitudes and approach to the whole ordeal. What each book has in common is the undeniable connection these Trials develop between each couple. As they try to maintain a sense of separateness, this is nearly impossible for the forced proximity. Things get messy for a host of reasons, but mostly for the enthralling emotional toll that feeds the connection between each couple. While each event seems to get darker, more dangerous and truly dastardly, real care and concern to outright outrage occurs for each initiate on behalf of their Belles.
The plots are beyond the test of endurance of the body, mind and hearts. Prepare to be captivated, compelled to turn the pages, have your breath stolen, a racing pulse and pounding heart.
Overall, this series is dark, twisted, dangerous to the heart, then heroic above all else as each couple in this boxset will have you rooting for them to turn the tables on the evil machinations of this dark society they have been forced to endure. Each will provide a very satisfying ending (take THAT! evildoers) with a seemingly impossible to achieve HEA. Definitely a must read for dark romance reader fans.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Michelle

10.6k reviews28 followers

December 15, 2021

Elegant Sins Bk1:
Elegant Sins is a wonderfully written story about an elite secret society called The Order of the Silver Ghost. Montgomery is to be initiated into the order and if he completes the 109 days then he will get the family business. Grace is a struggling waitress who accepts an invitation to attend the trials of initiation and if she completes the 109 days she wins a lot of money. Beautiful Lies Bk2:
Beautiful Lies is book two of the Breaking Belles series and is about an elite secret society called The Order of the Silver Ghost. Sully is to be initiated into the order and he must complete the three months of trials in order to become one of them. Portia is the belle he picks to endure the three months alongside him. Portia and Sully are strong characters who go through a lot and by the end, they have an intense connection.
Opulent Obsession Bk3:
Opulent Obsession is book three of the Breaking Belles series and in this book we get Rafe and Fallon's story. Rafe is about to be initiated into the elite secret society called The Order of the Silver Ghost and Fallon is one of the belles. Rafe and Fallon have a past so when he sees her he knows she's the one he wants to endure the three months of trials alongside him. This is a dark, captivating, and steamy story with well developed characters and unexpected twists that held my attention from beginning to end. I didn't put it down until the last page.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this box set.

2021 5-star-read arc

Lisa

769 reviews6 followers

March 3, 2022

This is a dirty and sometimes scary set of books about men trying to win favor into a secret society they aren't really sure they want, and women who are desperate for a hand up in the world. It's filthy and demeaning to the women, but there is growth and lots of love too.
Each book is Standalone with no Cliffhangers.
#1 Elegant Sins
She is a waitress desperate after her boyfriend stole from her and left. He is headed to the trials to get ownership of a business he already runs but his father is trying to destroy.
Breaking the Belles is a 109 day test of their will, trust, and so much more. If they make it he get a silver robe and she gets her hearts desire.
#2 Beautiful Lies
They are both willing to do anything for their family. The problem is they don't work together and don't talk about anything important. Trying not to get emotionally attached. But how do you spend 109 days together and not get attached. Will his lack of passion to win bring them down?
#3 Opulent Obsession
She was the helps daughter, he was the owners son. They where best friends until they weren't. Now years later he has taken his brothers place in the trials and she is a belle.
Let the games begin and the past truths come out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I own this on Kindle and Audible.

Debra West

181 reviews

December 29, 2021

*** Free book for an honest review ***

ELEGANT SINS - This first book grabs your attention and does well flowing into the second book in the series. This story begs the age-old question does money truly make you happy. The two characters from two different life back grounds found love where their backgrounds should have denied them. The story was well written and with enough heat to make sure the air conditioning is working well.
BEAUTIFUL LIES – This one should have come with a hazard warning label. My kindle got so hot I had to throw it in the freezer to cool it down enough to use. How can two people who have nothing in common find the middle ground to come together. I loved the animosity between the and it evolves into so much more. Make sure to block out time on your schedule because you really want to never stop once you start.

OPULENT OBSESSION - This one is truly lives up to its name. The obsession to be like someone else, the obsession with past and the obsession of love/friendship. The characters seem to jump off the page as if they were truly in the room with you. I literally could feel each emotion and all the passion and heat that went with it. This was an awesome end to this box set.

*** Free book for an honest review ***

11.5k reviews48 followers

Breaking Belles Box Set - Books 1-3

Breaking Belles Box Set contains the first 3 books in this series -
1. Elegant Sins
2. Beautiful Lies
3. Opulent Obsession

I had not read this series before so I was excited to crack this box set up and become absorbed in these stories. This series has an overarching story-line and character cross-over. i think they are best read in order even though the author's have stated they can be read as a standalone. This is a bit of a complex background story with a secret order, Southern blue-bloods, lust, revenge, tradition, wealth, family, and a whole lot more. There are six men, each has his own book, who are initiated into the Order of the Silver Ghost. This involves the Oleander Manor home, secret rituals, a belle chosen by each man, 109 days, and a lot more. All I can say is that this is an interesting series so far and if you are able to get into the stories then you will be immersed into a world that you can't even imagine.

I received a copy of this box set and am leaving my honest review. My opinions are all my own.

Elesha's book fun gossip

1,089 reviews3 followers

This is an incredible read with intriguing characters. When two worlds colliding and taking them on a journey of a secret society intitation trial for 109 days in the Oleander Manor.
Elegant sins- Montgomery and Grace, one that is stepping into the role and one that is given hope, when all is lost, what will be the out come for them?
Beautiful lies-Sully and Portia One need to save there family business and one need to save there family will they both get what they need for There famiies?
Opulent obsession- Rafe and Fallon, one was not ment to take this place, in the intitation, it was ment for another but choice where taken away. The other is a childhood friend, that wants what is odd to them and will bend not break. Will they survive the out come?
These stories were filled with suspense intrigue secrets, corruption, deceit, lies, anger, hurt, mystery, drama,chemistry, emotional, kink, debauchery, cruel behaviour, twist and turns and dark themes.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Jill Haworth

1,030 reviews23 followers

January 9, 2022

I wanted to read this box set for book one. I first began reading the Broken Belles series with book two and I always wondered how it began. It didn’t disappoint. Along with every book in this series, each story involves a wealthy beyond riches bachelor who has to team up and work with a belle that he selects, from the wrong side of the tracks. They spend 109 days together facing twisted trials that are not for the faint of heart and leave no room for prudishness from the belle. The end goal is for him to successfully complete each trial to become a member of the Order of the Silver Ghost and take over the family business. The belle gets to make all her dreams come true. But the initiations are intended to break the belle and it’s up to her beau to do everything in his power to ensure that doesn’t happen. They have to work together to succeed.
Each book follows the same premise but each beau has a different story as does each belle. Every trial is different. Gripping reading. Superb.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Michele

1,539 reviews9 followers

December 13, 2021

This is a must have boxset if you are a fan of dark, intense, complex romances. This boxset is the first three books in the series that will have your jaw dropping to the floor time and time again. It is by two of my favorite authors and together they have a spectacular series for us! I can not wait to get my hands on the next book! This set is so compelling you will not want to put it down and there is no waiting till the next book comes out because you have the first three all at once! The characters will be ones that you will be ready to strangle one minute and love the next! Never a dull moment or slowing down! There is plenty of action, danger, lies, secrets, betrayal, desire, lust, love and more! Just when you think you have it figured out...a twist will knock you out of your chair! I would give more stars if I could! So ready for book four!!! I know it will be worth the wait! Check this out and see what I mean.

Leanne Bryson

5,168 reviews22 followers

Here are the first 3 books to the Breaking Belles Series all in one binge-worthy read. Characters are introduced in the first book that will reappear and have their own stories. Montgomery and Grace’s story is in book one, Elegant Sins, book two, Beautiful Lies, Sully and Portia's story, and Rafe and Fallon’s story is book three, Opulent Obsession. This men are udergoing the initation rituals to join the Order of the Silver Ghost, a society of powerful and influential men. The men's fathers and grandfathers have belonged and now it;s their turn. Each book has it's own interesting twist, a ton of steam, a ton of twisty turns, and more. There are some serious surprises along the way. With your Kindle Unlimited Subscription, you can read them all for FREE and get ready for Delicate Revenge, book 4.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Dawnmarie Burke

2,182 reviews14 followers

In this book we get the first three books that introduce us to the deliciously dark and twisted world of the Order. The 1st book Elegant Sins gives us Montgomery's initiation he and Grace test their mental toughness against the depraved games the Order like to play. In book two Beautiful Lies Sully and Portia are put through the trials and their 109 day initiation is brutal. In book 3 Opulent Obsession the Order is at their most twisted with Rafe and Fallon who have unfinished business from their shared past and they are really being put through it the Order have gone crazy with their brutality. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You need to read this dark and twisted story to see what happens. I would definitely recommend reading this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Arin Baur

586 reviews11 followers

December 21, 2021

I fallen in love with this book before I even got though the second chapter it’s so awesome I loved every part of it! There are a lot of mess up things that the group of order makes these males and females go through but I love how strong will the authors make them and not willing men to break them down. In a way this series reminds of dark version of Cinderella and a little beauty and the beast put together! If you love dark books with some fairytales kinda and strong leading woman this a series for you. It does have In my opinion good endings and might bring out some emotions out of you. I love this series so much thus far and it’s a keeper for me I wanted more chapters in the books it’s that great!! I can’t wait to read and buy the rest of the series someday soon! :)

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Gellybabe

91 reviews2 followers

December 26, 2021

This was a very interesting read.... The three books go over Montgomery, Sully and Rafe as they go through their initiation. The initiation trials involve the wealthiest men from Georgia (U.S) purposely prowling for and inviting impoverish women to the trial. Where the son of one of these men has to pick one and for the next 109 days, they are forced to be together 24/7 and sleep with each other. The women, of course, get the brunt of the mistreatment. Interesting read but very misogynistic themes. Only thing that saved the books was that the male leads aren't toxic and the romance was good as a result. Sully failed and was reluctant to go through this in the first place. Rafe chose Fallon who had a sweet spot for, in order to protect her. Montgomery wants to change things.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Elisa Castro

2,583 reviews2 followers

December 9, 2021

109 days

Breaking Belles contains the first three books in this series - books: Elegant Sins, Beautiful Lies and Opulent Obsession by authors Alta Hensley & Stasia Black.
Each book book in this series introduces you into the world of powerful men and their whims- some are downright evil, others well there might be hope. A cage, a prison or a work of elegance beyond your imagining- Oleander House. Here twenty lovely ladies that are not so privileged get to achieve their dreams. Only one will be the lucky choice. Yet is it really all perfection or is it a nightmare, a sensual shameful nightmare. You decide. Remember there is always a choice.
Enjoy!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

4,058 reviews19 followers

A well written secret society, dark romance by dual authors Black and Hensely. Smooth flowing storylines that each book in this collection inter-connect. Captivating from the very beginning, these reads will grab you from the start and won't let you go! If you love dark, thrilling reads, you won't be disappointed in this collection! Six friends are expected to be initiated into a secret society to inherit family wealth where instant connections are made - chose a Belle (6 chosen for their down on their luck, on the wrong side of the tracks lives) to join along side the trials they will face in their initiation. Dark but addictive, this is the first three in what appears to be a 6 book collection.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Ann

1,938 reviews32 followers

I read the three books in this boxset. The archaic meanderings of dirty old men are pervasive inside the walls of their secret society.
Only men are allowed to join the Order. They must endure trials set forth by the elders and if they win they become members. The initiates must choose a female among the women lined up before him to be his trial partner. She must be willing to prove herself no matter what is asked of her There is sex involved performed in front of the elders. Failure to pass any trial means being kicked out.

All three books are smoking hot with lots of sex. I read each book when they were released and loved each one. I liked the relationships devoted between the initiate and their belle.

Robyn

1,730 reviews8 followers

December 14, 2021

Oleander Manor is the home of The Order of the Silver Ghost. Young men are invited to take part in individual 109 day long trials of initiation to become members of the Order and to gain control of their family businesses. Hard up young women are given the chance to get whatever they desire if they take part in the initiations, but the goal is to break the woman. But we are now seeing young men who would like to change the brutal methods of the order.

This book has the stories of three men and the women they choose to partner them. Can they get through the initiation with no lasting damage?

This book could provide triggers for some people, but it is a very good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Alison

1,814 reviews7 followers

To win the power, they have to play the game, but if they don't win the game they could lose it all. A great collection of dark romances, where the son's of some powerful men are dragged unwilling into play the games of the secret society, to win the power and control back for themselves. I loved these three stories, and couldn't help but love all these couples (Montgomery and Grace, Sully and Portia, Rafe and Fallon), their stories kept me turning the pages, and gasping at some of what happened.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Erika

2,585 reviews8 followers

A dark depraved society that is passed down to each generation. The newer generation is making changes for the better. Each male thinks he is not worthy of love or anything good. The strong female shows him that he is worthy of everything. Each couple takes a different approach to the situation but they make it work for them. You will be enthralled with characters and the all trials they are put through to reach the happy ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Patricia

653 reviews9 followers