What do you think?
Heretic Brotherhood MC: Australia #1
Affliction
PLEASE NOTE: This book was blocked for publication by Amazon due to "content violations" and as such it is no longer available.
Due to Fear & Fidelity and Pain & Punishment being blocked by Amazon, the release of Lust & Loathing and Hope & Humiliation will no longer occur.
I will be re-writing the Duplicity Trilogy to remove the content Amazon feels violates its T&Cs and anticipate releasing the trilogy plus a free prequel novel in late November 2022. These new stories will include the characters you've come to love, however the motorcycle club will have a name change and some other details will be altered to minimise reader confusion. Whilst the paperbacks were not subject to the same ban by Amazon, I will remove them from sale as well since the rest of the series will no longer be released in ebook.
If you want to know how the Venom/Lily/Slash love triangle ends, keep an eye out for the new titles by subscribing to my VIP reader update (link in bio).
In the meantime, Discord & Harmony (a reverse harem rock star romance standalone) will release on August 31st, 2022.
I appreciate your patience and understanding with this issue that is completely out of my control.
Bella
xo
Due to Fear & Fidelity and Pain & Punishment being blocked by Amazon, the release of Lust & Loathing and Hope & Humiliation will no longer occur.
I will be re-writing the Duplicity Trilogy to remove the content Amazon feels violates its T&Cs and anticipate releasing the trilogy plus a free prequel novel in late November 2022. These new stories will include the characters you've come to love, however the motorcycle club will have a name change and some other details will be altered to minimise reader confusion. Whilst the paperbacks were not subject to the same ban by Amazon, I will remove them from sale as well since the rest of the series will no longer be released in ebook.
If you want to know how the Venom/Lily/Slash love triangle ends, keep an eye out for the new titles by subscribing to my VIP reader update (link in bio).
In the meantime, Discord & Harmony (a reverse harem rock star romance standalone) will release on August 31st, 2022.
I appreciate your patience and understanding with this issue that is completely out of my control.
Bella
xo
465 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 23, 2021
About the author
Bella Faust
35 books127 followersCAN YOU HANDLE THE MINDF#CK?
Bella’s first book, Craving Control, can be downloaded as a welcome gift once you've confirmed your subscription to her Faust 411 reader update > https://www.subscribepage.com/the411
This book was banned online, so make sure you read the trigger warnings first!
ABOUT BELLA:
A fan of erotic psychological thrillers that are full of steam and angst, dark romance that doesn’t shy away from the pain and violence of life, but a devoted hater of the way the villain is always magically redeemed by his love for the heroine or the amazing coincidence whereby the hero just happens to sweep in and save his woman before she can really be hurt, Bella Faust spent years hoping that her favourite dark romance authors would go balls to the wall in one of their dark romance books… or even better write a whole series of these stories.
During that period of misguided longing, she worked as a finance manager at her local university, studied for her MBA, completed a BA in English, raised her two kids, taught English to high schoolers, volunteered as a Lifeline crisis counsellor, drove her husband mad with her complaints about the dearth of true dark psychological romance books, and dipped her toe into ghost-writing and editing.
Then she decided to write the books she wants to read for her-damn-self.
And, now, she’s inviting you inside her madness… as long as you make sure to check the trigger warnings beforehand!
CONNECT WITH BELLA:
Website: bellafaust.com
Reader email update: https://www.subscribepage.com/the411
Read her banned dark villainous romance in the Faust Faction on Ream: https://reamstories.com/faustfaction
Bella’s first book, Craving Control, can be downloaded as a welcome gift once you've confirmed your subscription to her Faust 411 reader update > https://www.subscribepage.com/the411
This book was banned online, so make sure you read the trigger warnings first!
ABOUT BELLA:
A fan of erotic psychological thrillers that are full of steam and angst, dark romance that doesn’t shy away from the pain and violence of life, but a devoted hater of the way the villain is always magically redeemed by his love for the heroine or the amazing coincidence whereby the hero just happens to sweep in and save his woman before she can really be hurt, Bella Faust spent years hoping that her favourite dark romance authors would go balls to the wall in one of their dark romance books… or even better write a whole series of these stories.
During that period of misguided longing, she worked as a finance manager at her local university, studied for her MBA, completed a BA in English, raised her two kids, taught English to high schoolers, volunteered as a Lifeline crisis counsellor, drove her husband mad with her complaints about the dearth of true dark psychological romance books, and dipped her toe into ghost-writing and editing.
Then she decided to write the books she wants to read for her-damn-self.
And, now, she’s inviting you inside her madness… as long as you make sure to check the trigger warnings beforehand!
CONNECT WITH BELLA:
Website: bellafaust.com
Reader email update: https://www.subscribepage.com/the411
Read her banned dark villainous romance in the Faust Faction on Ream: https://reamstories.com/faustfaction
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 5, 2022
3⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Extremely Dark Romance
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level:
Triggers: Yes (Heavily Triggered)
Violence: Yes
Male: Narcissist, Obsessive & Possessive
Series: Yes
Pages: loc. 5843
Audio: No
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
I have to start by saying this book requires a certain type of reader. I am a lover of dark romance, but even I would have to not be human to not be affected by all that took place in this book. This would not be categorize as a romance, I would put in a psychology thriller that is very dark, twisted and wrong on all levels, VERY WRONG.
Alexander is the villain and main character of this story. The whole story is told from his POV. He is a very intense and dark character. He displays someone to me that gives off narcissistic behavior who is verbally, mentally and physically abusive. This type of behavior breathe life into his character and it’s one that you will walk away detesting but find yourself wanting to know how it ends.
Lilianna, she was interesting. I didn’t get her thoughts but she was so young, strong at times, and seems to see earlier on red flags with Alexander, but chose to ignore.
**Note, this isn’t a romance and the author noted this. You are reading the thoughts of a deprave, twisted and dark man that shows from start to end the moment he sees a young 17 year old girl and decided to make her apart of his twist plan against her brother. He slowly becomes obsessive and possessive over her, which then spirals out of control into violence and terror.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
I think for me, this mentally takes a told because you are only reading Alexander’s POV. I know it’s the purpose of the story, but I wanted fresh prospective within this story for certain situation. Lilianna’s family are in the Heretic Brotherhood MC, but the story doesn’t give you an MC vibe. Maybe that’s the way it was intended. The storyline with Nadia, I don’t feel anything became of it. The deal the struck, I really didn’t see much playing out. I remember asking myself, whatever happen to her.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
I left out the sex rating above. It was done so for me because it was sex that was one sided but in the form of enjoyment for the villain. I have to note there is sex, no with just the heroine but ow. The triggers are astronomical, very forced with repetitive violence and rape towards women that is very descriptive. So again, this book should be read by a certain reader who isn’t sensitive and has the mentally capacity to not be triggered so easily.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
There were a few interesting secondary characters who added to the story. However, Alexander’s character took over this book/story completely l.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? At times.
Did I like the story? Yes and no
Would I read the other books in the series? Yes.
TRIGGERS: Narcissistic abusing behavior, manipulative and verbal abuse, repetitive violent rape and violence against women.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Extremely Dark Romance
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level:
Triggers: Yes (Heavily Triggered)
Violence: Yes
Male: Narcissist, Obsessive & Possessive
Series: Yes
Pages: loc. 5843
Audio: No
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
WHAT I LIKED:
I have to start by saying this book requires a certain type of reader. I am a lover of dark romance, but even I would have to not be human to not be affected by all that took place in this book. This would not be categorize as a romance, I would put in a psychology thriller that is very dark, twisted and wrong on all levels, VERY WRONG.
Alexander is the villain and main character of this story. The whole story is told from his POV. He is a very intense and dark character. He displays someone to me that gives off narcissistic behavior who is verbally, mentally and physically abusive. This type of behavior breathe life into his character and it’s one that you will walk away detesting but find yourself wanting to know how it ends.
Lilianna, she was interesting. I didn’t get her thoughts but she was so young, strong at times, and seems to see earlier on red flags with Alexander, but chose to ignore.
**Note, this isn’t a romance and the author noted this. You are reading the thoughts of a deprave, twisted and dark man that shows from start to end the moment he sees a young 17 year old girl and decided to make her apart of his twist plan against her brother. He slowly becomes obsessive and possessive over her, which then spirals out of control into violence and terror.
WHAT WAS SO SO:
I think for me, this mentally takes a told because you are only reading Alexander’s POV. I know it’s the purpose of the story, but I wanted fresh prospective within this story for certain situation. Lilianna’s family are in the Heretic Brotherhood MC, but the story doesn’t give you an MC vibe. Maybe that’s the way it was intended. The storyline with Nadia, I don’t feel anything became of it. The deal the struck, I really didn’t see much playing out. I remember asking myself, whatever happen to her.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY
I left out the sex rating above. It was done so for me because it was sex that was one sided but in the form of enjoyment for the villain. I have to note there is sex, no with just the heroine but ow. The triggers are astronomical, very forced with repetitive violence and rape towards women that is very descriptive. So again, this book should be read by a certain reader who isn’t sensitive and has the mentally capacity to not be triggered so easily.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
There were a few interesting secondary characters who added to the story. However, Alexander’s character took over this book/story completely l.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? At times.
Did I like the story? Yes and no
Would I read the other books in the series? Yes.
TRIGGERS: Narcissistic abusing behavior, manipulative and verbal abuse, repetitive violent rape and violence against women.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
April 9, 2022
Impressions…
Book hangover
POV of a certifiable villain for whom I knew the plot could only end the way it did. But why do I feel down, disquieted? I love a happy ending even with a bad guy, an obsessed, broken monster. After all who doesn’t want a man obsessed with her? But Alexander, in a lot of ways weak, did not deserve her, lily/ Anna, feisty, strong capable and cunning.
Story was told from Alexander’s POV and well with just a tad bit too much telling versus showing, which would have resolved itself through more dialogue and gestures and another POVs, since the author couldn't achieve it by style through one POV. It was simply some telling in the form of how everyone feels, how he feels, what people are thinking. We spent a lot of time in Alexander’s head.
Despite that the book was engaging. I couldn’t stop reading, couldn’t close my eyes to the outcome, even as it headed for its inevitable fall. And what a beautiful ending it was. For me, gutting. I continued to think, how could this change, how can an unwilling Anna become willing?
Medium to fast pace, this was a dark read due to the domestic and sexual violence, mental anguish. Our villain was not a good guy.
This story, while appealing, does not entice the romance reader to proceed with the series. It is a heavy, emotionally taxing read with not a lot of levity. Some dark humor but not enough to take this from a dark thriller to a romance. And as captivating as it was I am left reluctant to continue not knowing what to expect stylistically from the trilogy. Also I was not the biggest fan of the heroine.
Character development was good, particularly their emotional and mental state, although it was difficult at times to physically visualize the men, Alexander, less so Anna. Perhaps that was to not getting so attached to him / them as most held no warming qualities. But I can’t say I liked the heroine, Anna. I get it that Alexander was virtually irredeemable — certain events you can’t come back from, but she didn’t inspire a lot of empathy. I found her manipulative. I absolutely appreciated her strength and bouts of mutiny, however. I guess a part of me always wants the main characters’ riding into sunset. And in some fashion they did. Freedom.
In summary, approach this story as a thriller and guard your heart from a villain.
Book hangover
POV of a certifiable villain for whom I knew the plot could only end the way it did. But why do I feel down, disquieted? I love a happy ending even with a bad guy, an obsessed, broken monster. After all who doesn’t want a man obsessed with her? But Alexander, in a lot of ways weak, did not deserve her, lily/ Anna, feisty, strong capable and cunning.
Story was told from Alexander’s POV and well with just a tad bit too much telling versus showing, which would have resolved itself through more dialogue and gestures and another POVs, since the author couldn't achieve it by style through one POV. It was simply some telling in the form of how everyone feels, how he feels, what people are thinking. We spent a lot of time in Alexander’s head.
Despite that the book was engaging. I couldn’t stop reading, couldn’t close my eyes to the outcome, even as it headed for its inevitable fall. And what a beautiful ending it was. For me, gutting. I continued to think, how could this change, how can an unwilling Anna become willing?
Medium to fast pace, this was a dark read due to the domestic and sexual violence, mental anguish. Our villain was not a good guy.
This story, while appealing, does not entice the romance reader to proceed with the series. It is a heavy, emotionally taxing read with not a lot of levity. Some dark humor but not enough to take this from a dark thriller to a romance. And as captivating as it was I am left reluctant to continue not knowing what to expect stylistically from the trilogy. Also I was not the biggest fan of the heroine.
Character development was good, particularly their emotional and mental state, although it was difficult at times to physically visualize the men, Alexander, less so Anna. Perhaps that was to not getting so attached to him / them as most held no warming qualities. But I can’t say I liked the heroine, Anna. I get it that Alexander was virtually irredeemable — certain events you can’t come back from, but she didn’t inspire a lot of empathy. I found her manipulative. I absolutely appreciated her strength and bouts of mutiny, however. I guess a part of me always wants the main characters’ riding into sunset. And in some fashion they did. Freedom.
In summary, approach this story as a thriller and guard your heart from a villain.
April 29, 2022
The book definitely takes a toll on the reader's soul, that much is true. It's NOT categorized as Romance. it is NOT a romance. It should NOT be read & reviewed as Romance.
The story is pure torture.
Hard hitting, gruesome, barbaric, wild persecution and suffering of Lilian Mayberry at the hands of a disillusioned, seriously sick minded Alexander Kingsley, whose father is the upholder of law in the town in Queensland. So pretty much Alex is like a bully around town. His sights are set on Lyssander & Lilian Mayberry, the twins born in midst of The Heretic Brotherhood MC. A gang of gunrunners and weed sellers.
The Kingsley and Mayberry turf war goes back years.
“I want to either crush the Heretic Brotherhood MC or bring them under my control. You have your plan, and I have mine. Fortunately, our cross purposes will create the same outcome. The Mayberrys will go down and bring those loyal with them, and someone I control will rise from the ashes to take control.”
Brutus rules the town with his brute power and lawlessness.
The stage is set for violent rivalry from the first chapter itself.
Alex is nothing but devil personified. He has a tunnel vision when it comes to his obsession with lily, his anna.
"I will be her gravity, the epicentre of her world.
Her judge.
Jury.
Executioner.
Her only friend.
Her lover.
Her tormentor."
He's competing with Izeikel Miles for her affections and is constantly riled by her hugs for him, goaded by her smiles for zeke and his inner beast awakens.
He's constantly kidnapping her and holding her captive for his own perverse pleasure.
His penchant for roughing up women is legendary and the temporary alternative of hiring prostitutes to beat & choke works sometimes in his favour of calming his beast and sometimes doesn't.
There's plenty of lawful help around to dispose off his victims, so to speak.
"I see everything.
Every day that I shared with her because she’s all that matters in the end.
The day I first saw her, and she stole my breath away from me.
The day I vowed to ruin her to have my revenge over her twin brother.
The day I first touched her, and I instantly knew she was precious.
The day I realised she was pure, and I developed my craving to taste her.
The day I was mean to her, and I liked that she stood up to me.
The day I caused her pain, and it fed my monster’s appetite.
The day I discovered she loved another man, and I decided to destroy her.
The day I tried to kill her, yet the thought of living without her made me cry.
The day I shattered her soul by breaking her body, mind, and spirit, yet she still survived me at my worst.
The day I came back to break her, and she ended up destroying me instead.
The day I underestimated her, and she finally pulled the trigger to set herself free. "
I was ALWAYS scared for lily, in every chapter, every situation. She's forever at the mercy of his fists and slaps.
The entire book is in Alexander's POV so we don't get even a moment's respite from his barbarity at any time.
I had a peeve to address though. Alex does a lot of teeth baring, mentioning hidden agenda forever but he doesn't Follow the plan, which remains a mystery. Also he seems to be all powerful for a young man and easily annihilates all in the end, which seemed a tad unbelievable.
Lily, for being born in an MC gang, a princess of sorts, is pretty clueless and dumb at times. She keeps going with Alex time and time again on her own volition, which is strange.
All Zeke and Sanders had to do was mention how he beats up women to lily to warn her, but they don't!! Why???
So from start to the end, it takes alot from me to go on uninterrupted. Lots of choked gasps and hard breathing is required
I don't know who to recommend this book to, cause it's not a romance and doesn't have an HEA.
Only deep dark abyss you can jump into.
Read it at your own risk. I'm already into book 2, whatever that tells you about me 😈
4 stars for Destiny On Steroids
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
The story is pure torture.
Hard hitting, gruesome, barbaric, wild persecution and suffering of Lilian Mayberry at the hands of a disillusioned, seriously sick minded Alexander Kingsley, whose father is the upholder of law in the town in Queensland. So pretty much Alex is like a bully around town. His sights are set on Lyssander & Lilian Mayberry, the twins born in midst of The Heretic Brotherhood MC. A gang of gunrunners and weed sellers.
The Kingsley and Mayberry turf war goes back years.
“I want to either crush the Heretic Brotherhood MC or bring them under my control. You have your plan, and I have mine. Fortunately, our cross purposes will create the same outcome. The Mayberrys will go down and bring those loyal with them, and someone I control will rise from the ashes to take control.”
Brutus rules the town with his brute power and lawlessness.
The stage is set for violent rivalry from the first chapter itself.
Alex is nothing but devil personified. He has a tunnel vision when it comes to his obsession with lily, his anna.
"I will be her gravity, the epicentre of her world.
Her judge.
Jury.
Executioner.
Her only friend.
Her lover.
Her tormentor."
He's competing with Izeikel Miles for her affections and is constantly riled by her hugs for him, goaded by her smiles for zeke and his inner beast awakens.
He's constantly kidnapping her and holding her captive for his own perverse pleasure.
His penchant for roughing up women is legendary and the temporary alternative of hiring prostitutes to beat & choke works sometimes in his favour of calming his beast and sometimes doesn't.
There's plenty of lawful help around to dispose off his victims, so to speak.
"I see everything.
Every day that I shared with her because she’s all that matters in the end.
The day I first saw her, and she stole my breath away from me.
The day I vowed to ruin her to have my revenge over her twin brother.
The day I first touched her, and I instantly knew she was precious.
The day I realised she was pure, and I developed my craving to taste her.
The day I was mean to her, and I liked that she stood up to me.
The day I caused her pain, and it fed my monster’s appetite.
The day I discovered she loved another man, and I decided to destroy her.
The day I tried to kill her, yet the thought of living without her made me cry.
The day I shattered her soul by breaking her body, mind, and spirit, yet she still survived me at my worst.
The day I came back to break her, and she ended up destroying me instead.
The day I underestimated her, and she finally pulled the trigger to set herself free. "
I was ALWAYS scared for lily, in every chapter, every situation. She's forever at the mercy of his fists and slaps.
The entire book is in Alexander's POV so we don't get even a moment's respite from his barbarity at any time.
I had a peeve to address though. Alex does a lot of teeth baring, mentioning hidden agenda forever but he doesn't Follow the plan, which remains a mystery. Also he seems to be all powerful for a young man and easily annihilates all in the end, which seemed a tad unbelievable.
Lily, for being born in an MC gang, a princess of sorts, is pretty clueless and dumb at times. She keeps going with Alex time and time again on her own volition, which is strange.
All Zeke and Sanders had to do was mention how he beats up women to lily to warn her, but they don't!! Why???
So from start to the end, it takes alot from me to go on uninterrupted. Lots of choked gasps and hard breathing is required
I don't know who to recommend this book to, cause it's not a romance and doesn't have an HEA.
Only deep dark abyss you can jump into.
Read it at your own risk. I'm already into book 2, whatever that tells you about me 😈
4 stars for Destiny On Steroids
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
March 15, 2022
Proceed with caution my dear friends, this dark psychological thriller is not for the faint of heart. Please check trigger warnings (and your current mental state) before reading, because this book will wrap you up in a very twisted web.
Alex Kingsley is the heir to the dark sides of the political world and the criminal world, with endless money and charm to get whatever he wants. Until Lilianna (Anna) Mayberry, that is. He sees her and immediately wants her. Not just to be his lover, but as revenge against his nemesis, who just happens to be Anna's twin, Lysander. This is a story of unrequited love, and the depths Alex will go to for Anna to be his.
This was so well written that at times I was convinced by Alex to blame Anna for leading him on. How crazy is that? I felt bad for him for never really having a chance at life - with his dad and grandfather being monsters, raising him without boundaries and nurturing his own monster, not giving him the help he needed - he was always doomed to be a monster. But how, can my progressive feminist heart feel bad for this man who shows extreme violence against women? It really messed with me, if I'm being honest. And that's wholly due to the author's talent and a carefully crafted story.
That all being said, I was definitely disgusted by Alex's actions, and reading through some of the violent scenes made me a bit nauseous. This is not a romance, this is a one-sided love that escalates to heights I have never read before (if I'm being honest, I wish it wasn't listed as a dark romance at all, because, as the author notes, there is nothing to romanticize here). This is NOT an HEA. Well, your standard HEA anyways. This story is meant to show Alex's background and how that impacted Anna, and it shows how broken they both become.
There wasn't too much I have to say badly about this book, it was really well done even though it was so very violent. I think my only complaints are that a few pieces never really felt wrapped up or explained. The whole original purpose of Alex's actions was revenge against Lysander, yet we only got blips at the end of what happened to him. Brutus cherished his daughter more than anything yet was willing to let his greed take over? What happened to Nadia other than who she ended up with? I understand the focus was on Alex, but I think his motives and people he used to achieve them could have a bit more conclusion. My last issue was, how did this guy stay alive for so long? Why didn't someone just kill him? It felt like a never-ending cycle of get Anna, violence, get Anna, violence. Which I get was the point, to show how Alex could never leave his obsession, but still. To me, an MC or even the headstrong Anna would have destroyed him very quickly, even with all of his family's power.
Anywho, bravo! But also... I need to watch some Disney movies and cute videos of koalas now.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Alex Kingsley is the heir to the dark sides of the political world and the criminal world, with endless money and charm to get whatever he wants. Until Lilianna (Anna) Mayberry, that is. He sees her and immediately wants her. Not just to be his lover, but as revenge against his nemesis, who just happens to be Anna's twin, Lysander. This is a story of unrequited love, and the depths Alex will go to for Anna to be his.
This was so well written that at times I was convinced by Alex to blame Anna for leading him on. How crazy is that? I felt bad for him for never really having a chance at life - with his dad and grandfather being monsters, raising him without boundaries and nurturing his own monster, not giving him the help he needed - he was always doomed to be a monster. But how, can my progressive feminist heart feel bad for this man who shows extreme violence against women? It really messed with me, if I'm being honest. And that's wholly due to the author's talent and a carefully crafted story.
That all being said, I was definitely disgusted by Alex's actions, and reading through some of the violent scenes made me a bit nauseous. This is not a romance, this is a one-sided love that escalates to heights I have never read before (if I'm being honest, I wish it wasn't listed as a dark romance at all, because, as the author notes, there is nothing to romanticize here). This is NOT an HEA. Well, your standard HEA anyways. This story is meant to show Alex's background and how that impacted Anna, and it shows how broken they both become.
There wasn't too much I have to say badly about this book, it was really well done even though it was so very violent. I think my only complaints are that a few pieces never really felt wrapped up or explained. The whole original purpose of Alex's actions was revenge against Lysander, yet we only got blips at the end of what happened to him. Brutus cherished his daughter more than anything yet was willing to let his greed take over? What happened to Nadia other than who she ended up with? I understand the focus was on Alex, but I think his motives and people he used to achieve them could have a bit more conclusion. My last issue was, how did this guy stay alive for so long? Why didn't someone just kill him? It felt like a never-ending cycle of get Anna, violence, get Anna, violence. Which I get was the point, to show how Alex could never leave his obsession, but still. To me, an MC or even the headstrong Anna would have destroyed him very quickly, even with all of his family's power.
Anywho, bravo! But also... I need to watch some Disney movies and cute videos of koalas now.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
April 1, 2022
Lily has been through a lot and is just trying to move forward with her life and plans to put Alex behind her and move on with Zeke. Unfortunately, the past won’t let her go. Fast-paced MC read with loads of drama, suspense and steam. Great characters with lots of depth and plenty of twists and turns. I liked it.
May 10, 2023
Wow this one takes you into the mind of a psycho but it's so worth the read. I loved it. So we'll written!
March 5, 2022
Lilianna is the princess of the Heretic MC and Alex is completely and utterly obsessed with her and with ruining her brother. This dark,intense and gritty story is told from Alex's POV and I found it very helpful for putting things into perspective for where the story goes in the future. Alex is a true villain who's totally unpredictable which is what makes him even more sinister. The darkness gets to be too much for Anna and she starts fighting back with all that she is which only widens the rift between them. I would recommend reading this story so that you have the complete backstory for moving forward in the series unless you're sensitive to triggers then you really need to think about it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 3, 2022
I am voluntarily leaving this review. It’s not often that I go back and buy a whole series (even the preorders) when I am reading a book to review. But Bella Faust has caught my interest in this dark romance that I have bought all the book in this series. There is definitely a trigger warning for the whole book, but it is so good!
Lilly has had it rough since she found herself in an abusive relationship when she was seventeen years old. With the help of her soul mate, Zeke helps her to find her new norm. But now with the psycho ex on the loose, Lilly finds herself in danger yet again. Just when she thinks that all the bad in her life is over, she gets smacked with another obstacle. When Zeke finds himself doing anything and everything to protect him, Lilly and his club, he feels like he is drowning and doing everything wrong.
I was hooked from page one, on the edge of my seat the whole time. There were some scenes that I couldn’t breathe because I was laughing so hard. There were scenes where I wished I was in the book so I could gut some people myself. I felt all the feels in this book and I cannot wait for the next one to come out so I can see how the story continues to unfold.
Lilly has had it rough since she found herself in an abusive relationship when she was seventeen years old. With the help of her soul mate, Zeke helps her to find her new norm. But now with the psycho ex on the loose, Lilly finds herself in danger yet again. Just when she thinks that all the bad in her life is over, she gets smacked with another obstacle. When Zeke finds himself doing anything and everything to protect him, Lilly and his club, he feels like he is drowning and doing everything wrong.
I was hooked from page one, on the edge of my seat the whole time. There were some scenes that I couldn’t breathe because I was laughing so hard. There were scenes where I wished I was in the book so I could gut some people myself. I felt all the feels in this book and I cannot wait for the next one to come out so I can see how the story continues to unfold.
April 13, 2022
ok not sure where to start with this review......
Oh I know how about pissed off. Frustrated and beyond dumbfounded. Why hasn't someone killed freaking Brutus?????
That is the question. This book is so full of turns, revelations, frustration, angst and well every emotion you could possibly imagine.
Kill Brutus and a lot of problems would be solved that is my conclusion. How someone can be so evil and do what he's done to his kids and club is just appalling.
Can't wait to see what the conclusion will be and how it's all solved (fingers crossed) anyways.
Lily has been through so much I don't know how she can take much more. And Zeke dayum that man is frustrating too. I do know these two love each other (promise). I have 17 days to wait for the next book and it can't come fast enough. This book is long winded but so worth the read. Loving the storyline. Club should stand for loyalty, trust, brotherhood and family.
I seriously need the next book.
Do I recommend this book? Why yes I do. I think MC (Motorcycle Club) lovers will love this frustrating book.
thanks jamie nibarger ellis
Oh I know how about pissed off. Frustrated and beyond dumbfounded. Why hasn't someone killed freaking Brutus?????
That is the question. This book is so full of turns, revelations, frustration, angst and well every emotion you could possibly imagine.
Kill Brutus and a lot of problems would be solved that is my conclusion. How someone can be so evil and do what he's done to his kids and club is just appalling.
Can't wait to see what the conclusion will be and how it's all solved (fingers crossed) anyways.
Lily has been through so much I don't know how she can take much more. And Zeke dayum that man is frustrating too. I do know these two love each other (promise). I have 17 days to wait for the next book and it can't come fast enough. This book is long winded but so worth the read. Loving the storyline. Club should stand for loyalty, trust, brotherhood and family.
I seriously need the next book.
Do I recommend this book? Why yes I do. I think MC (Motorcycle Club) lovers will love this frustrating book.
thanks jamie nibarger ellis
April 28, 2022
This is the second book in this series and the first part of a trilogy which is Lily and Zeke’s journey. Lily has been through so much in her and is determined to move on with her life away from the abusive situation she was in with her ex. Zeke is Lily’s future and soulmate, but the past keeps coming back to haunt her, and Zeke will do what he must to protect and keep her safe. This is a well written fast paced, dark, raw, and gritty storyline, with undeniable chemistry, drama, intrigue, suspense, danger, twists, revelations, angst, healing, humor, witty banter, vengeance, action, emotions, and love, which leads to a steamy and riveting page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
April 28, 2022
I couldn't put this book down!!
Lily has gone through so much with her ex, Alex and just wants to be happy with Zeke. But, the past doesn't stay in the past for her at all.
This book is full of action, twists and turns, secrets and lies. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I thought I knew what was happening and what was coming, but I was way off!!
And that ending!?!?! I wasn't ready for it to end, I can't wait for the next book!!!
Lily has gone through so much with her ex, Alex and just wants to be happy with Zeke. But, the past doesn't stay in the past for her at all.
This book is full of action, twists and turns, secrets and lies. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I thought I knew what was happening and what was coming, but I was way off!!
And that ending!?!?! I wasn't ready for it to end, I can't wait for the next book!!!
May 5, 2022
OMG! I'm hooked! This new to me author can write dark! No doubt about that!
She has also written a highly compelling story, with amazing characters.
Once you've jumped in, I think like me, you'll be in it for the long haul!
The author hit the title right on! Pain. Tears. Phew!
So good!
She has also written a highly compelling story, with amazing characters.
Once you've jumped in, I think like me, you'll be in it for the long haul!
The author hit the title right on! Pain. Tears. Phew!
So good!
May 6, 2022
An emotional and action packed read. Interesting characters with a roller coaster of a plot. There's a lot going on in this book and I found myself engrossed throughout. Dark, gritty and violent, just what I expect from an MC book, with a heartbreaking love between two people that can't seem to find a way to fix things.
I can't wait for the next book.
I can't wait for the next book.
April 10, 2022
This the compelling mc book I have ever read, It was certainly one I will never forget, the brilliance of every written word and the passion keeps you engaged from start to finish, I can’t wait until instalment 2 this should be on the best sellers list.
April 18, 2022
Whoa! This story isn’t for the weak. It doesn’t contain hearts and flowers. This is a dark story containing dark subject matters. The plot was different and really dark. Lots of action going on that sometimes made it hard for me to follow. Twist and turns that keep you in the edge of your seat. Will Lily and Zeke find their HEA? We’ll have to wait and see.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book.
Want to Read
May 24, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/24/2022)! 🎁
August 26, 2022
I enjoyed Lily’s story. It was a fast paced & suspenseful read. And am voluntarily leaving my review.
September 10, 2022
This is the first book I have read by this author and I am a fan. This is the villain's POV so we get to look into the psyche of a sociopath. This book had a lot of suspense and had me biting my nails to see what would happen next. If you do have triggers I strongly suggest you read this at your own risk. I went in blind and loved this book from beginning to end. This is the prequel to Pain and Punishment of the Heretic Brotherhood MC/Australia. Also just to let people know that this is based out of Australia so there is a difference in some of the words. Which made this book way more interesting.
Alexander Kingsley was used to getting what he wanted and had specific tastes that would be wrong. He was tall, dark, and handsome and projected arrogance to the next level. Let's just say he was fixated on two things and one was on Lilianna Mayberry. The other was revenge. Lilianna Mayberry was pretty much an innocent bystander in the beginning. I think she was just trying to be nice and let Alexander down easily. I really felt for her through this whole book. She took a lot of torment and pain from Alexander. Throughout this book, you got to see her start to stand up for herself and to keep getting back up when she was knocked down. This is going to be an amazing series that I can't wait to dive into.
Merged review:
This book was amazing from beginning to end. This ended on a cliffhanger and am so ready to see what happens next. I read the prequel and was drawn into this series. This is definitely a dark read so if you have any triggers please read with caution. If you are looking for a great series with twists, turns and that will keep you on your toes this is for you. I loved the main and minor characters in this book. This book will have you feeling all the feels. I cried a few times. The heartache both Lily and Zeke go thru would break me.
Lily is such a strong woman. She picked her life up and went on no matter what was thrown at her. I really felt for her and wanted this to be her HEA but we must wait(which is fine with me) I need to process this book. Zeke is just trying to do right by his woman. I felt for him too because it was like one step forward and three back.
I so can't wait to read the next book in this series. Bella Faust creates amazing characters and worlds that will captivate you and needing more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Alexander Kingsley was used to getting what he wanted and had specific tastes that would be wrong. He was tall, dark, and handsome and projected arrogance to the next level. Let's just say he was fixated on two things and one was on Lilianna Mayberry. The other was revenge. Lilianna Mayberry was pretty much an innocent bystander in the beginning. I think she was just trying to be nice and let Alexander down easily. I really felt for her through this whole book. She took a lot of torment and pain from Alexander. Throughout this book, you got to see her start to stand up for herself and to keep getting back up when she was knocked down. This is going to be an amazing series that I can't wait to dive into.
Merged review:
This book was amazing from beginning to end. This ended on a cliffhanger and am so ready to see what happens next. I read the prequel and was drawn into this series. This is definitely a dark read so if you have any triggers please read with caution. If you are looking for a great series with twists, turns and that will keep you on your toes this is for you. I loved the main and minor characters in this book. This book will have you feeling all the feels. I cried a few times. The heartache both Lily and Zeke go thru would break me.
Lily is such a strong woman. She picked her life up and went on no matter what was thrown at her. I really felt for her and wanted this to be her HEA but we must wait(which is fine with me) I need to process this book. Zeke is just trying to do right by his woman. I felt for him too because it was like one step forward and three back.
I so can't wait to read the next book in this series. Bella Faust creates amazing characters and worlds that will captivate you and needing more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 16, 2022
First things first, this is ABSOLUTELY NOT a dark romance in any way shape or form. The Author makes this clear in her warnings (which you should read before starting this book). I would classify this as a dark thriller told from the villain’s POV. Govern yourselves accordingly.
Alex is a rich spoiled brat with a powerful family. He also happens to be bored, until he sets his sights on Lilliana, the local MC leader’s daughter. He wants revenge on her brother, so he decides the best way to achieve it is through her. Too bad she isn’t the innocent doormat he was expecting. Thus starts an insanely unhinged obsession.
This was different from what I usually read. It was heavy, dark, and left me with a sense of unease whenever reading it. Which is the whole point. This is a true villain’s story, not an anti-hero or some bad but redeemable character. Alex is 200% awful and 300% delusional.
The writing was well done, good descriptors. Obviously, Alex’s character was well done, to the point that I wanted to kick him in the teeth the entire time. I was intrigued by some of the side characters but felt they were a bit flat.
There were a lot of subplots that weren’t fully explained, but I assume that is because they are revealed in the other books of the series. I understand that Alex was obsessed with Lilliana, so most of the story would be centered around her, but I was left wanting to learn more about the other players in game.
Overall, this was a dreadfully twisted ride and not for the faint of heart.
Check it out now!
A big thanks to the Publisher & BookSirens. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
You can find the review for this book and others on my
Tiktok listed under Pickled Ponderings.
Do you like Romance Novels and want to hear more of my musings?
Check out my podcast, Turgid Tomes: A Tawdry Bookclub
Alex is a rich spoiled brat with a powerful family. He also happens to be bored, until he sets his sights on Lilliana, the local MC leader’s daughter. He wants revenge on her brother, so he decides the best way to achieve it is through her. Too bad she isn’t the innocent doormat he was expecting. Thus starts an insanely unhinged obsession.
This was different from what I usually read. It was heavy, dark, and left me with a sense of unease whenever reading it. Which is the whole point. This is a true villain’s story, not an anti-hero or some bad but redeemable character. Alex is 200% awful and 300% delusional.
The writing was well done, good descriptors. Obviously, Alex’s character was well done, to the point that I wanted to kick him in the teeth the entire time. I was intrigued by some of the side characters but felt they were a bit flat.
There were a lot of subplots that weren’t fully explained, but I assume that is because they are revealed in the other books of the series. I understand that Alex was obsessed with Lilliana, so most of the story would be centered around her, but I was left wanting to learn more about the other players in game.
Overall, this was a dreadfully twisted ride and not for the faint of heart.
Check it out now!
A big thanks to the Publisher & BookSirens. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
You can find the review for this book and others on my
Tiktok listed under Pickled Ponderings.
Do you like Romance Novels and want to hear more of my musings?
Check out my podcast, Turgid Tomes: A Tawdry Bookclub
May 17, 2022
TITLE: Fear & Fidelity
GENRE: Extremely Dark Romance
AUTHOR: Bella Faust
TROPE: Dark MC Romance, Kidnapping, Stalker obsession
TYPE: Series (Heretic Brotherhood MC | Prequel)
POV: Single POV
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Fear & Fidelity is an extremely dark story of obsession and mental illness. Check those trigger warnings, and don't take them lightly.
Alex is abusive and dark in his treatment of women when he meets Lilianna, and he falls head over heels for her. But is it love or his disturbed and abusive obsession over her?
Lilianna is young and feels over-protected by her family, choosing to enter a relationship with Alex even though her family does not like him. She is a survivor showing her perseverance and strength at times, even in the face of terror.
The storyline is a twisted tale of obsession and abuse and is not something I would condone in real life. It is by no means a romance but more of a harrowing fictional tale that did hold my attention until the end to see where the story would conclude.
Fear & Fidelity is a prequel to the series and does not need to be read if you are sensitive to triggers, but I am curious how this will lead to future events in the Heretic MC's Series.
Trigger Warning: Physical and sexual abuse, rape, violence and mental illness.
Merged review:
TITLE: Pain & Punishment
GENRE: Romance
AUTHOR: Bella Faust
TROPE: Dark MC Romance
TYPE: Series (Heretic Brotherhood MC | Duplicity Trilogy Bk 1)
POV: Multiple POV
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Twists, angst, and heartbreak seem to meet Lily at every turn in this suspenseful ride that is Pain & Punishment. Because I read the prequel Feal & Fidelity, the book's first half was a familiar story, but this time told from Lily and Zeke's perspective. Zeke has been doing everything he can to try and protect Lily since she was young, but time and time again, he has been caught off guard, and Lily has been put in harm's way, leaving Zeke to blame himself. The second part of the book is where the suspense picks up, leading to a whopper of a cliffhanger. I enjoyed Pain & Punishment more than the prequel, and I want to see where this story goes in the next installment, Lust & Loathing. I am rating Pain & Punishment 4 / 5 Stars
GENRE: Extremely Dark Romance
AUTHOR: Bella Faust
TROPE: Dark MC Romance, Kidnapping, Stalker obsession
TYPE: Series (Heretic Brotherhood MC | Prequel)
POV: Single POV
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Fear & Fidelity is an extremely dark story of obsession and mental illness. Check those trigger warnings, and don't take them lightly.
Alex is abusive and dark in his treatment of women when he meets Lilianna, and he falls head over heels for her. But is it love or his disturbed and abusive obsession over her?
Lilianna is young and feels over-protected by her family, choosing to enter a relationship with Alex even though her family does not like him. She is a survivor showing her perseverance and strength at times, even in the face of terror.
The storyline is a twisted tale of obsession and abuse and is not something I would condone in real life. It is by no means a romance but more of a harrowing fictional tale that did hold my attention until the end to see where the story would conclude.
Fear & Fidelity is a prequel to the series and does not need to be read if you are sensitive to triggers, but I am curious how this will lead to future events in the Heretic MC's Series.
Trigger Warning: Physical and sexual abuse, rape, violence and mental illness.
Merged review:
TITLE: Pain & Punishment
GENRE: Romance
AUTHOR: Bella Faust
TROPE: Dark MC Romance
TYPE: Series (Heretic Brotherhood MC | Duplicity Trilogy Bk 1)
POV: Multiple POV
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Twists, angst, and heartbreak seem to meet Lily at every turn in this suspenseful ride that is Pain & Punishment. Because I read the prequel Feal & Fidelity, the book's first half was a familiar story, but this time told from Lily and Zeke's perspective. Zeke has been doing everything he can to try and protect Lily since she was young, but time and time again, he has been caught off guard, and Lily has been put in harm's way, leaving Zeke to blame himself. The second part of the book is where the suspense picks up, leading to a whopper of a cliffhanger. I enjoyed Pain & Punishment more than the prequel, and I want to see where this story goes in the next installment, Lust & Loathing. I am rating Pain & Punishment 4 / 5 Stars
April 4, 2022
"The day I underestimated her"
When he was younger Sanders supposedly destroyed his chances at the future he desired ( I admit I had a bit of trouble understanding this)
Years later he sees an opportunity for revenge that appeals to him and promises to feed his darker proclivities
Only obsession soon clouds his original goal
Now sweet Lilly is his
His future
Only His
The problem is Lilly doesn't seem wholly on board
That's okay though, she'll soon see reason
After all, he's perfection - the white knight to her cinderella -What female wouldn't want what he's offering?
This is the story of a man lost in his own psychosis and the innocent victims that fall prey to his "monster"
Alexander suffers from multiple disorders
His sociopathic tendencies and craving for violence star front and center within this story
This is NOT a romance - it is a story about a boy/man who is lost in his own version of the world
It is a dark psychological thriller with violence, acts of deprivation, and delusional beliefs that are enacted
It is told from the villain's POV
There may be a HEA - depending on your definition
If you are looking for a romance this is NOT it
This IS a horror, thriller novel
Merged review:
HOLY SCHNIKEYS!!
Please secure your life jackets, strap on those helmets and hold on tight this is one wild ride through the crimson rapids of insanity
I jest you not - you think the prologue was a spine-tingling white-knuckling journey into the warped mind of mankind
This is humanities insanity vividly played out
She is one tough gal though - Even when there was barely a slice of light shining through she did not give up - Probably because her life offered her some happy moments to balance the darkness and loss
If you have any triggers I suggest passing on this series
For those who enjoy a swim in the deep end of the crimson pool of psychologically messed up characters and villains who know no bounds, friends/family who would just as soon stab you in the neck and step over your twisting corpse than give up their greedy needs
Then this is for you
When he was younger Sanders supposedly destroyed his chances at the future he desired ( I admit I had a bit of trouble understanding this)
Years later he sees an opportunity for revenge that appeals to him and promises to feed his darker proclivities
Only obsession soon clouds his original goal
Now sweet Lilly is his
His future
Only His
The problem is Lilly doesn't seem wholly on board
That's okay though, she'll soon see reason
After all, he's perfection - the white knight to her cinderella -What female wouldn't want what he's offering?
This is the story of a man lost in his own psychosis and the innocent victims that fall prey to his "monster"
Alexander suffers from multiple disorders
His sociopathic tendencies and craving for violence star front and center within this story
This is NOT a romance - it is a story about a boy/man who is lost in his own version of the world
It is a dark psychological thriller with violence, acts of deprivation, and delusional beliefs that are enacted
It is told from the villain's POV
There may be a HEA - depending on your definition
If you are looking for a romance this is NOT it
This IS a horror, thriller novel
Merged review:
HOLY SCHNIKEYS!!
Please secure your life jackets, strap on those helmets and hold on tight this is one wild ride through the crimson rapids of insanity
I jest you not - you think the prologue was a spine-tingling white-knuckling journey into the warped mind of mankind
This is humanities insanity vividly played out
She is one tough gal though - Even when there was barely a slice of light shining through she did not give up - Probably because her life offered her some happy moments to balance the darkness and loss
If you have any triggers I suggest passing on this series
For those who enjoy a swim in the deep end of the crimson pool of psychologically messed up characters and villains who know no bounds, friends/family who would just as soon stab you in the neck and step over your twisting corpse than give up their greedy needs
Then this is for you
June 19, 2022
Not for those who have strong reactions to any of the trigger warnings!
Wow . . .not sure where to begin. This is not a book that I would typically read but did so because I really want to read this series. This book is no romance, there is no grand romantic gestures but instead it gives you an insider's view of what it must be like for a psychopatic stalker. It kind of offered me answers to situations that I am aware of that always made me wonder about.
This book is only from the POV of Alex. He knows he's a monster but he believes that he is in love and all his actions are justified to him because of this. Everything he does is either because of his love or because of something Anna/Lilly does to him. Interesting, the book also offers a villain's perspective of other characters whom are likely to be significant players in books to come.
Like I said, this is not the type of book I would normally read, I am so glad that I did as I have a feeling it will help me with the storylines moving forward as so many seeds were planted here.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Merged review:
Angsty, Heartbreaking, Dark MC Read . . . .
This was a hard and agonizing read . . . . I loved every word, every page and every chapter. If you are triggered about sexual assault or miscarriage, please consider taking a pass on this one.
This picks up from where Fear and Fidelity leaves off. The author does not shy away or protect the reader from the details of the dark themes that run throughout this book. This story does not gloss over dark themes but makes you take a plunge right into them. The book is packed with action, with a great story line and characters that I wished I new (well . . . some of them). The love story of Zeke and Lily is heart wrenching and I can’t wait to see where things go from here!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow . . .not sure where to begin. This is not a book that I would typically read but did so because I really want to read this series. This book is no romance, there is no grand romantic gestures but instead it gives you an insider's view of what it must be like for a psychopatic stalker. It kind of offered me answers to situations that I am aware of that always made me wonder about.
This book is only from the POV of Alex. He knows he's a monster but he believes that he is in love and all his actions are justified to him because of this. Everything he does is either because of his love or because of something Anna/Lilly does to him. Interesting, the book also offers a villain's perspective of other characters whom are likely to be significant players in books to come.
Like I said, this is not the type of book I would normally read, I am so glad that I did as I have a feeling it will help me with the storylines moving forward as so many seeds were planted here.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Merged review:
Angsty, Heartbreaking, Dark MC Read . . . .
This was a hard and agonizing read . . . . I loved every word, every page and every chapter. If you are triggered about sexual assault or miscarriage, please consider taking a pass on this one.
This picks up from where Fear and Fidelity leaves off. The author does not shy away or protect the reader from the details of the dark themes that run throughout this book. This story does not gloss over dark themes but makes you take a plunge right into them. The book is packed with action, with a great story line and characters that I wished I new (well . . . some of them). The love story of Zeke and Lily is heart wrenching and I can’t wait to see where things go from here!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 29, 2022
This book has lots of triggers so don’t take the authors warnings lightly!
Lilianna Mayberry is the heroine but the book gives you little insight in to her as a person as it’s really the hero’s POV. The beginning is just the start of an obsession by Alexander Kingsley with Lilianna that consumes him & creates destructive, possessive, narcissistic behaviour. His obsession has no boundaries that is abusive making me so damn angry. The book unfolds without a real story it’s just his abusive towards Lilianna throughout in my eyes, but it gives the lead up to the next book in the series.
Lilianna is deemed as weak but as you continue to read you realise that she does have a backbone and fights back that surprises Alexander. This isn’t a romance at all but a story that is gritty, abusive, and tormented.
The hero has no redeeming qualities for me, I didn’t like him at all but that’s what this book was giving us, hatred to this spoilt, arrogant rich man. At times I thought he was childish.
I did enjoy reading this book, never having read a book by Bella Faust. I will continue with the series hoping to get an insight into Lilianna and the secondary characters in the series.
Merged review:
Having read the prequel to this book I couldn’t wait to read this one. It is not for the faint of heart, it is twisted, angsts and dark. But I loved it!
The story gripped me from the start, Lily is a tough girl, trying to move on in her life, but at every turn there is heartbreaking revolutions, pain and some tricky situations.
This series is amazing, but you have to read this with an open mind. Pick it up, you won’t regret it if you love dark books with lots of angst.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lilianna Mayberry is the heroine but the book gives you little insight in to her as a person as it’s really the hero’s POV. The beginning is just the start of an obsession by Alexander Kingsley with Lilianna that consumes him & creates destructive, possessive, narcissistic behaviour. His obsession has no boundaries that is abusive making me so damn angry. The book unfolds without a real story it’s just his abusive towards Lilianna throughout in my eyes, but it gives the lead up to the next book in the series.
Lilianna is deemed as weak but as you continue to read you realise that she does have a backbone and fights back that surprises Alexander. This isn’t a romance at all but a story that is gritty, abusive, and tormented.
The hero has no redeeming qualities for me, I didn’t like him at all but that’s what this book was giving us, hatred to this spoilt, arrogant rich man. At times I thought he was childish.
I did enjoy reading this book, never having read a book by Bella Faust. I will continue with the series hoping to get an insight into Lilianna and the secondary characters in the series.
Merged review:
Having read the prequel to this book I couldn’t wait to read this one. It is not for the faint of heart, it is twisted, angsts and dark. But I loved it!
The story gripped me from the start, Lily is a tough girl, trying to move on in her life, but at every turn there is heartbreaking revolutions, pain and some tricky situations.
This series is amazing, but you have to read this with an open mind. Pick it up, you won’t regret it if you love dark books with lots of angst.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 21, 2022
Honestly, this book was really hard for me to read. I couldn't connect with any of the characters.
Alexander to me is creepy and a dick that has issues. If you're into a man that beats women when they have sex then sure, go for it. The idea that he was so rough he killed a prostitute was wild and yet unsurprising. He is a rather arrogant, rich guy that gets fixated on Lilianna because he wants to use her for revenge. This book is told from his point of view and he develops an obsession of a fantasy "romance" that he's created.
Lilianna is immature and yet still goes for this guy. I suppose it could be described that she is loyal to the nth degree. She ends up being slightly surprising but half of her storyline could have made her stronger.
Overall, maybe a 3 star book. The writing was well done even though I could not get myself of like any of these characters. The idea of the Motorcycle Club kept it interesting but the storyline was too dark for me.
“Poking my head out the window, I call after her, “Would you mind telling Anna that I’m here to pick her up? I’d rather not go inside… your cheap house makes me itch.”
“She is no longer a pawn in this game.
She isn’t even a player.
She is the prize.
A nonnegotiable, indispensable requirement in my life.
I don’t want to live without her.
This discovery scares the living shit out of me.
To need someone.
To rely on someone.
To tie my future to someone.
It’s not something I would have ever chosen for myself.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a choice in the matter.
I’m hers.
She is mine.
Until the last breath leaves our bodies.”
*I received an advanced reader copy in return for an honest review*
Alexander to me is creepy and a dick that has issues. If you're into a man that beats women when they have sex then sure, go for it. The idea that he was so rough he killed a prostitute was wild and yet unsurprising. He is a rather arrogant, rich guy that gets fixated on Lilianna because he wants to use her for revenge. This book is told from his point of view and he develops an obsession of a fantasy "romance" that he's created.
Lilianna is immature and yet still goes for this guy. I suppose it could be described that she is loyal to the nth degree. She ends up being slightly surprising but half of her storyline could have made her stronger.
Overall, maybe a 3 star book. The writing was well done even though I could not get myself of like any of these characters. The idea of the Motorcycle Club kept it interesting but the storyline was too dark for me.
“Poking my head out the window, I call after her, “Would you mind telling Anna that I’m here to pick her up? I’d rather not go inside… your cheap house makes me itch.”
“She is no longer a pawn in this game.
She isn’t even a player.
She is the prize.
A nonnegotiable, indispensable requirement in my life.
I don’t want to live without her.
This discovery scares the living shit out of me.
To need someone.
To rely on someone.
To tie my future to someone.
It’s not something I would have ever chosen for myself.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a choice in the matter.
I’m hers.
She is mine.
Until the last breath leaves our bodies.”
*I received an advanced reader copy in return for an honest review*
March 5, 2022
This is not your HEA book. Dark and gritty, twisted and broody, Alex is the kind of male that once he gets his hands on you, he will never let you go. Passion, obsession, possession, it all means the same thing to him.
He has set his sights on Ana and he wants her. Ana may fight all she wants but no one gets away from him. This villain you will love to hate. Be prepared for a story of struggle, defiance; one of dominance and intense unpredictable moments.
I found myself vacillating between hoping this villain would be redeemable or he would continue being the monster he was. It was compelling
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Merged review:
The path forward is not always an easy one, especially when you have a monster from your past that refuses to stay there. The journey to healing and the tender feels of love that are growing between Lily and Zeke must endure hardships and the vengeance of Alex, because no one gets away from him.
It's dark and full of intrigue, twists and turns. These characters are damaged, but in a wonderful way. Though this book doesn't have those butterflies and shiny days, it does have the struggles and trials that pulls at you . . . because well dammit, we can all commiserate with hardships but it won't stop us from being fascinated by the hardships of others. This story is one that will fascinate you and keep you guessing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
He has set his sights on Ana and he wants her. Ana may fight all she wants but no one gets away from him. This villain you will love to hate. Be prepared for a story of struggle, defiance; one of dominance and intense unpredictable moments.
I found myself vacillating between hoping this villain would be redeemable or he would continue being the monster he was. It was compelling
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Merged review:
The path forward is not always an easy one, especially when you have a monster from your past that refuses to stay there. The journey to healing and the tender feels of love that are growing between Lily and Zeke must endure hardships and the vengeance of Alex, because no one gets away from him.
It's dark and full of intrigue, twists and turns. These characters are damaged, but in a wonderful way. Though this book doesn't have those butterflies and shiny days, it does have the struggles and trials that pulls at you . . . because well dammit, we can all commiserate with hardships but it won't stop us from being fascinated by the hardships of others. This story is one that will fascinate you and keep you guessing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2022
SO MANY TRIGGERS!!!!
Please, Please read all the warnings from the author's website BEFORE reading this book.
Check Trigger Warnings here > https://antiheroromance.com/trigger-w...
I really feel like this book has to be read by a certain type of person to be enjoyed, and reading this I realized I'm not sure I am in the headspace to read the rest of her books currently, but I may attempt the next book later on. I enjoy dark romances, but I would not put this in the dark romance category. This felt more like a thriller, and our main character is the villain (Alex). He is extremely dark, cruel and twisted. We see everything from his perspective and watch his desire, and ultimately obsession, for Anna build. Faust's writing is intense, dark and pretty fast-paced, which I enjoyed but sometimes being in Alex's head literally made me feel physically angry & sick and I would have to take breaks from it. I believe if the sexual violence could've been reigned in a little bit I would have given this 5 stars, but it was just a little bit too much for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Please, Please read all the warnings from the author's website BEFORE reading this book.
Check Trigger Warnings here > https://antiheroromance.com/trigger-w...
I really feel like this book has to be read by a certain type of person to be enjoyed, and reading this I realized I'm not sure I am in the headspace to read the rest of her books currently, but I may attempt the next book later on. I enjoy dark romances, but I would not put this in the dark romance category. This felt more like a thriller, and our main character is the villain (Alex). He is extremely dark, cruel and twisted. We see everything from his perspective and watch his desire, and ultimately obsession, for Anna build. Faust's writing is intense, dark and pretty fast-paced, which I enjoyed but sometimes being in Alex's head literally made me feel physically angry & sick and I would have to take breaks from it. I believe if the sexual violence could've been reigned in a little bit I would have given this 5 stars, but it was just a little bit too much for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2022
Where to begin. I will warn that this is a hard read especially if you have triggers. Lilly meets Alex and thinks she finds her guy but instead she finds her nightmare. He is unstable and obsessed. Can she make it to through their time together whole? This book does not stop. It keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time. I could not put it down because I needed to know what happens. Absolutely amazing.
Merged review:
Wow. Where to begin. I will say this story is a hard read but that isn’t always a bad thing. Lily and Zeke’s path to find happiness is full of many bumps in the road. Their past keeps coming back and the future is in peril. This author knows how to get you from word one. I could not put down this book. I was on the edge of my seat there entire time. Absolutely perfect.
Merged review:
Wow. Where to begin. I will say this story is a hard read but that isn’t always a bad thing. Lily and Zeke’s path to find happiness is full of many bumps in the road. Their past keeps coming back and the future is in peril. This author knows how to get you from word one. I could not put down this book. I was on the edge of my seat there entire time. Absolutely perfect.
April 24, 2022
Well, I really don’t know where to start!! This is a Very dark psychological thriller with so many triggers. It’s certainly not for the faint of heart. Alex is a very troubled soul. He’s violent, obsessive and possessive. Once he set his sights on Anna, she didn’t stand a chance! The plot is well developed and held my interest all the way through. The ending was perfect. I can’t wait to read more about Anna in Pain & Punishment. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy from the author*
Merged review:
This book is definitely not for the faint of heart! It’s dark, gritty and heartbreaking. Lily and Zeke are falling in love while dealing with her ex, Alex. So many lies, secrets and twists and turns. So much heat, intrigue and suspense. This was a very good read. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy from HiddenGems*
Merged review:
This book is definitely not for the faint of heart! It’s dark, gritty and heartbreaking. Lily and Zeke are falling in love while dealing with her ex, Alex. So many lies, secrets and twists and turns. So much heat, intrigue and suspense. This was a very good read. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy from HiddenGems*
March 1, 2022
when Anna's life is on the right track and then gets thrown through a loop what will she do? she has people to protect her and some one that will lay down there life, but where will it all lead? This was action packed, suspenseful, dramatic, chemistry filled and has twist and turns. A gripping read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Merged review:
Alex takes obsession to a whole other level with Anna. He is the ultimate villian. He will also stop at nothing to take down her brother is a complete different obsession at it root. This was gritty and a thrilling read and sets up ready for the pain and punishment book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Merged review:
Alex takes obsession to a whole other level with Anna. He is the ultimate villian. He will also stop at nothing to take down her brother is a complete different obsession at it root. This was gritty and a thrilling read and sets up ready for the pain and punishment book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2022
This is a dark, gritty read with a mega villian to say the least. Alexander Kingsley is a jacka*^ of epic proportions. And then there's
Lilianna Mayberry, Princess of the Heretic MC. I'm not sure what to make of her. At times she seems feisty and independent, and then there's times she seems a bit timid to have grown up in an MC. Alex is completely obsessed with her and equally as obsessed with ruining her brother. This book is from Alex's point of view and kind of left me hanging with unanswered questions. But, with all of that being said, there's Pain And Punishment following this one so hopefully those questions will be answered and a few other things will be cleared up with Alex and Anna.
Lilianna Mayberry, Princess of the Heretic MC. I'm not sure what to make of her. At times she seems feisty and independent, and then there's times she seems a bit timid to have grown up in an MC. Alex is completely obsessed with her and equally as obsessed with ruining her brother. This book is from Alex's point of view and kind of left me hanging with unanswered questions. But, with all of that being said, there's Pain And Punishment following this one so hopefully those questions will be answered and a few other things will be cleared up with Alex and Anna.
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