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The Deana-Dhe Duet #2
Curses and Cures
We're the Deana-dhe. We're the men everyone fears...
Or so we had thought.
Until the Skull Brotherhood steals the one thing more precious to us than anything else.
Cyn.
Our talented healer.
Our original sin.
Our soulmate.
To get her back we're forced to seek the help of our enemies.
Putting aside our need for revenge for the sake of the woman we love, we work together to find her.
But when we do, she's not the same woman.
Broken by her experience, we must find a way to heal her or lose her forever.
Cyn fixed our hearts, now it's time we fix hers.
Or so we had thought.
Until the Skull Brotherhood steals the one thing more precious to us than anything else.
Cyn.
Our talented healer.
Our original sin.
Our soulmate.
To get her back we're forced to seek the help of our enemies.
Putting aside our need for revenge for the sake of the woman we love, we work together to find her.
But when we do, she's not the same woman.
Broken by her experience, we must find a way to heal her or lose her forever.
Cyn fixed our hearts, now it's time we fix hers.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2023
179 people are currently reading
1322 people want to read
About the author
Bea Paige
66 books1,572 followersA writer of gritty, dangerous love. A hopeless romantic. A lover of dark heroes. A drinker of red wine and a scoffer of Haribo sweets.
Librarian Note: Also writes under the name Kelly Stock.
Librarian Note: Also writes under the name Kelly Stock.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
March 21, 2023
3. 5 stars. I didn’t dislike this book. I like this author, I love this British criminal underworld that she’s created in all of her books. I like her characters. Sadly, the Breakers weren’t in this one. But Grim and Beast were, and they were the best parts. But, I did have several issues with this story that prevents me from being able to give it 4 stars.
This is the sequel to Debts and Diamonds. It only makes sense if you’ve read that. And it makes the most sense if you’ve also read Academy of Stardom, and The Dancer and The Masks duet.
The plot: at the end of last book, Cyn got abducted by the Skull Brotherhood. So in this book, Arden, Lorcan, and Carrick team up with the Masks and Beasts to rescue her. That takes up about half the story – their rescue mission, plus her ordeal with this horrible violent misogynistic gang. She’s traumatized after that. So, the second half of the book is her healing, and finding love and peace with Arden, Lorcan, and Carrick. There’s a definitive ending – no cliffhanger setting up a side character’s story. So, it’s not clear where this world is going next.
I enjoyed a lot of it. Beast was great. But my main problems with this book are a death that happens in the middle of it, and also Arden, Carrick, and Lorcan’s characterization.
The Deana-dhe are legendary in this world. Arden, Carrick, and Lorcan are widely feared and respected, and I’ve finished their duet being like, “Why?” Maybe the point of their story is to peel away their mystique? But even so, I don’t dislike them, but they don’t even come across as powerful fighters as the Breakers do, in Academy of Stardom.
In this book, while the Deana-dhe are on their rescue mission, they're helped by the Masks and Beast. They don’t come across as that extraordinary at fighting. In the Breakers series, they got help, too, but they still got some scenes where we saw them take on an entire gang of men and defeat them alone, even while they were outnumbered. The Deana-dhe didn’t really get moments like that. In their inner monologues, they even feel a bit immature, especially Carrick. I know they’re spiraling because their lady is kidnapped. But even so, the overall effect is that I’m underwhelmed by these guys. I like them okay, but I'm not wowed by their competence, and I don't feel like I experienced and saw WHY they have such fearsome reputations.
I still don’t feel like I’ve seen them be seriously formidable and scary. Call me crazy, but if I’m reading a duet where they’re the main characters, I should walk away feeling like I completely understand why they're such a big deal! So far in this world, the Breakers and the Masks have both come across as more competent, in their books. The Deana-dhe seemed more formidable in Academy of Stardom than they did in their own books.
The second issue I had with this book is a death that happens in the middle, of
Anyway, even though it doesn’t sound like it, I still enjoy Bea Paige’s books a lot, and I’m eager to see what she does next. I like Cyn and her guys, but the Breakers remain my favorite. I was just a bit underwhelmed by this book.
This is the sequel to Debts and Diamonds. It only makes sense if you’ve read that. And it makes the most sense if you’ve also read Academy of Stardom, and The Dancer and The Masks duet.
The plot: at the end of last book, Cyn got abducted by the Skull Brotherhood. So in this book, Arden, Lorcan, and Carrick team up with the Masks and Beasts to rescue her. That takes up about half the story – their rescue mission, plus her ordeal with this horrible violent misogynistic gang. She’s traumatized after that. So, the second half of the book is her healing, and finding love and peace with Arden, Lorcan, and Carrick. There’s a definitive ending – no cliffhanger setting up a side character’s story. So, it’s not clear where this world is going next.
I enjoyed a lot of it. Beast was great. But my main problems with this book are a death that happens in the middle of it, and also Arden, Carrick, and Lorcan’s characterization.
The Deana-dhe are legendary in this world. Arden, Carrick, and Lorcan are widely feared and respected, and I’ve finished their duet being like, “Why?” Maybe the point of their story is to peel away their mystique? But even so, I don’t dislike them, but they don’t even come across as powerful fighters as the Breakers do, in Academy of Stardom.
In this book, while the Deana-dhe are on their rescue mission, they're helped by the Masks and Beast. They don’t come across as that extraordinary at fighting. In the Breakers series, they got help, too, but they still got some scenes where we saw them take on an entire gang of men and defeat them alone, even while they were outnumbered. The Deana-dhe didn’t really get moments like that. In their inner monologues, they even feel a bit immature, especially Carrick. I know they’re spiraling because their lady is kidnapped. But even so, the overall effect is that I’m underwhelmed by these guys. I like them okay, but I'm not wowed by their competence, and I don't feel like I experienced and saw WHY they have such fearsome reputations.
I still don’t feel like I’ve seen them be seriously formidable and scary. Call me crazy, but if I’m reading a duet where they’re the main characters, I should walk away feeling like I completely understand why they're such a big deal! So far in this world, the Breakers and the Masks have both come across as more competent, in their books. The Deana-dhe seemed more formidable in Academy of Stardom than they did in their own books.
The second issue I had with this book is a death that happens in the middle, of
Anyway, even though it doesn’t sound like it, I still enjoy Bea Paige’s books a lot, and I’m eager to see what she does next. I like Cyn and her guys, but the Breakers remain my favorite. I was just a bit underwhelmed by this book.
March 20, 2023
*4.5 Stars*
This book was not what I was expecting! I was anticipating a ton of action and chaos on the journey to fix what went down at the end of book one. And while we did get some of that, I was not expecting the emotional rollercoaster that was this book. If you are someone who can be triggered by darker content then I would HIGHLY recommend visiting Bea's website to examine the list of trigger warnings because most of the ones listed are not one time occurrences but are more of a general theme for part one of the book. I'm not gonna lie, there were a number of parts that HURT. I knew it wouldn't be pretty and that things wouldn't be rectified instantly but man. Do I wish that there was a bit more action overall? Yes, but it became clear as the story went on that if it had gone down any differently it wouldn't have felt right. This was their story and while it wasn't as exciting as I was hoping for plot wise I think it did these characters justice because while difficult to read at times it felt genuine. Because like Bea says, their story is one about healing from past traumas through love.
One silver lining and one of my favorite aspects of the book overall was the teaming up of the Deana-Dhe with Beast and another group of men that I have been waiting a long time to see. It was just as tense and iconic as I thought it would be and thank goodness for Beast and his constant comedic relief! I also enjoyed seeing everyone but especially the Deana-Dhe be there for Cyn to help put her back together after everything she went through. While there's no doubt she lost a part of herself to her experiences I was so happy that by the end she had gained not one but two loving families! She deserves the absolute world and I couldn't think of anyone better to keep those Deana-Dhe in line! While their journey was full of struggles and challenges from the moment they met all those years ago, I loved watching them make their way back to each other and finding love in the process! It was oh so satisfying and I was so happy for them to finally get their HEA! 🤍
This book was not what I was expecting! I was anticipating a ton of action and chaos on the journey to fix what went down at the end of book one. And while we did get some of that, I was not expecting the emotional rollercoaster that was this book. If you are someone who can be triggered by darker content then I would HIGHLY recommend visiting Bea's website to examine the list of trigger warnings because most of the ones listed are not one time occurrences but are more of a general theme for part one of the book. I'm not gonna lie, there were a number of parts that HURT. I knew it wouldn't be pretty and that things wouldn't be rectified instantly but man. Do I wish that there was a bit more action overall? Yes, but it became clear as the story went on that if it had gone down any differently it wouldn't have felt right. This was their story and while it wasn't as exciting as I was hoping for plot wise I think it did these characters justice because while difficult to read at times it felt genuine. Because like Bea says, their story is one about healing from past traumas through love.
One silver lining and one of my favorite aspects of the book overall was the teaming up of the Deana-Dhe with Beast and another group of men that I have been waiting a long time to see. It was just as tense and iconic as I thought it would be and thank goodness for Beast and his constant comedic relief! I also enjoyed seeing everyone but especially the Deana-Dhe be there for Cyn to help put her back together after everything she went through. While there's no doubt she lost a part of herself to her experiences I was so happy that by the end she had gained not one but two loving families! She deserves the absolute world and I couldn't think of anyone better to keep those Deana-Dhe in line! While their journey was full of struggles and challenges from the moment they met all those years ago, I loved watching them make their way back to each other and finding love in the process! It was oh so satisfying and I was so happy for them to finally get their HEA! 🤍
July 7, 2024
3.5⭐️’s - this second book felt kinda lacking, generally speaking, but as well as this series as a whole in comparison to the rest of the books in the affiliated series’ by this author. It was good, but not as much as the previous books.
March 17, 2023
Rating 4.5/5 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 💫
Spice Level 3.5/5🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶
Oh my god, Bea! Standing ovation. It was great to see all characters in one book reunite to save Cyn from the Skull Brotherhood! It's like Bea's own Marvel universe. I almost cried, screaming, YES, the anxiety was there. Plus ANGER. I was on the edge of my seat and jumping around. I had during the first half of the book was just a rollercoaster of emotions.
As per usual, Bea did a splendid job, and I do love her duets. I always thought that Lorcan would be my favorite among the 3, but I was wrong. Carrick, omg. CARRICK stole my heart. They went to great lengths to get Cyn back, and I love how they comfort each other just when Carrick is just breaking down.
Despite the pain, grief, death, and more (so check TW/CW), they will always come for her no matter what the cost is because they are each other's soul mates.
P.S Carrick's speech made me tear up a bit
“𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐬 𝐞𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫…” 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧. 𝐓𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬."
Spice Level 3.5/5🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶
Oh my god, Bea! Standing ovation. It was great to see all characters in one book reunite to save Cyn from the Skull Brotherhood! It's like Bea's own Marvel universe. I almost cried, screaming, YES, the anxiety was there. Plus ANGER. I was on the edge of my seat and jumping around. I had during the first half of the book was just a rollercoaster of emotions.
As per usual, Bea did a splendid job, and I do love her duets. I always thought that Lorcan would be my favorite among the 3, but I was wrong. Carrick, omg. CARRICK stole my heart. They went to great lengths to get Cyn back, and I love how they comfort each other just when Carrick is just breaking down.
Despite the pain, grief, death, and more (so check TW/CW), they will always come for her no matter what the cost is because they are each other's soul mates.
P.S Carrick's speech made me tear up a bit
“𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐬 𝐞𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫…” 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧. 𝐓𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬."
March 19, 2023
Curses and Cures by Bea Paige has been a difficult goodbye for me to Deana-dhe and their focus of attention, devotion, obsession Cyn. I have already been a hard fan of Cyn since The Dancer and The Masks but this duet fueled my love to oblivion. Beware that it’s pretty dark, probably darkest dark for some of you but it’s all worth it at the end. I have cried a few ugly tears and felt sorrow quite deeply but the ending was brilliant. The love among the guys and Cyn felt tangible and never ending. Definitely going to my re-read shelf!
April 1, 2023
I dove straight into this even though I knew I likely would not enjoy it. Sadly my predictions were correct and I was still left unhappy with this final part in the duet. It's just these characters were so damn unlikable it's not funny. As usual with a bully read the heroine just takes it, accepts it and forgives when really she should be the Queen of Revenge. I hate that so much was reliant on them being mates even when they (on the surface and given the past) seemed like the worst match up ever. Personally I'd never be able to look at them after how they treated her in the past and to think they denied their instincts just makes it worse. Still most of their hate is because of her estranged father=STUPID. This made no sense as they had little to no time in this second book to bond or grow closer, just seemed like they accepted it, felt a little bad now they get a HEA, I don't think so. Bummed with this duet :(
March 30, 2023
Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice-o-meter: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
POV - Multiple
Genre/ Trope: Contemporary/ Dark Romance/ Romantic Suspense/ Fated mates/ Enemies-to-lovers/ RH
Alas, the final book in this dark, suspenseful, RH duet has come. Following that major cliffhanger of book one, the story started with The Deana-dhe working together with their arch nemesis, The Masks. This time, they have to set aside their differences if they wanted to have a great chance of rescuing Cyn from The Skull Brotherhood's clutches. And oh man, did the leader of this gang made me so darn stabby.
I didn't expect the way that this story would go and I admit that what Cyn and Faith went through on the hands of The Skull Brotherhood was just tragic at best. And again, it made me stabby just thinking about Soren's character. I rooted for them to push through and cried for them at the end.
For so long, the Deana-dhe, especially Carrick and Arden, has avoided and loathed the way Cyn made them feel. I think they fear that Cyn had them stripped down to their very soul and not the fearsome Deana-dhe that everyone was afraid of. I guess the saying, you don't know what you got until it's gone, aptly described that moment when they're faced of losing her. Cyn had to go through a massive kind of grief and with the help of her men, they had found the peace, comfort and love to rise above it. A beautiful ending to this great duet and looking forward to seeing these characters again in the author's other new series.
Spice-o-meter: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
POV - Multiple
Genre/ Trope: Contemporary/ Dark Romance/ Romantic Suspense/ Fated mates/ Enemies-to-lovers/ RH
“Cras es noster.”
Alas, the final book in this dark, suspenseful, RH duet has come. Following that major cliffhanger of book one, the story started with The Deana-dhe working together with their arch nemesis, The Masks. This time, they have to set aside their differences if they wanted to have a great chance of rescuing Cyn from The Skull Brotherhood's clutches. And oh man, did the leader of this gang made me so darn stabby.
“Sometimes terrible things happen to good people.”
I didn't expect the way that this story would go and I admit that what Cyn and Faith went through on the hands of The Skull Brotherhood was just tragic at best. And again, it made me stabby just thinking about Soren's character. I rooted for them to push through and cried for them at the end.
“You were never a curse Cyn. You were always the cure to our brokenness.”
For so long, the Deana-dhe, especially Carrick and Arden, has avoided and loathed the way Cyn made them feel. I think they fear that Cyn had them stripped down to their very soul and not the fearsome Deana-dhe that everyone was afraid of. I guess the saying, you don't know what you got until it's gone, aptly described that moment when they're faced of losing her. Cyn had to go through a massive kind of grief and with the help of her men, they had found the peace, comfort and love to rise above it. A beautiful ending to this great duet and looking forward to seeing these characters again in the author's other new series.
March 21, 2023
I absolutely loved this book!! This was so good I was left speechless. It had it all, a range of emotions that left you laughing to absolutely crying. The storyline was perfection, the amount of troubles the men go through to get their woman, Cyn back is just a testiment to how much they love her. And, believe me, hot d@rn they do love her, and we all be jealous. I love the gathering of forces....hehehe....it is a most definite nice touch. Like I said, the story was perfection. I can not praise this book enough. Yes, it is a bit darker than the first one, but it is deliciously dark and goes so well with Cyn's story. I will definitely be re-reading this duet over and over again because I never want to goodbye!
June 14, 2023
This is book 2 in the Deana-dhe duet. The story takes off instantly after the end in book 1. While the previous book was mostly about Cyn's past with Deana-dhe, this book mostly talks about healing.
The soo healing and positive change in their relations happens as a result of the tragedy Cyn found herself in. I liked that author kept the tragic parts realistic rather than painting it with some immature alpha thing. However, as I have previously mentioned, Deana-dhe story had more potential.
The best character in the whole story was Faith ❤🥺
I loved the aspect of Fate and the way author inter-linked all her stories with it. The little bit of fantasy part was beautiful❤
Hope to see more of them in future ❤
The soo healing and positive change in their relations happens as a result of the tragedy Cyn found herself in. I liked that author kept the tragic parts realistic rather than painting it with some immature alpha thing. However, as I have previously mentioned, Deana-dhe story had more potential.
The best character in the whole story was Faith ❤🥺
I loved the aspect of Fate and the way author inter-linked all her stories with it. The little bit of fantasy part was beautiful❤
Hope to see more of them in future ❤
March 29, 2023
This book gave a good ending to the story of Cyn and the boys. Even though I do think more grovelling should have been done, their actions to win her love and the love they showed her did give me clarity on what they felt for her and if it wasn't just an obsession.
But what I did find unclear was the relationship between Lorcan, Arden and Carrick. One moment they called each other "brothers" and few chapters later they were ball-deep in each other and mm scenes appeared in the book.
Other than that, I did really enjoy the book.
But what I did find unclear was the relationship between Lorcan, Arden and Carrick. One moment they called each other "brothers" and few chapters later they were ball-deep in each other and mm scenes appeared in the book.
Other than that, I did really enjoy the book.
March 20, 2023
This is the second book in The Deana-Dhe duet so Debts & Diamonds must be read first. We pick up where debts and diamonds ends with the men suffering and believing they have failed Cyn. They call in debts and do whatever it takes to get Cyn back and this includes working with their enemies.
Cyn is one of the strongest FMC that I have read and after everything she has gone through she still wants to heal and care for people. I loved how we saw a lot of previous characters from other books in the world come together and after all the trauma the four of them have overcome for them to get their HEA was emotional.
This book flows effortlessly even through the darker parts, Bea is one of my fave authors and knew she would give these characters all that they deserved.
Cyn is one of the strongest FMC that I have read and after everything she has gone through she still wants to heal and care for people. I loved how we saw a lot of previous characters from other books in the world come together and after all the trauma the four of them have overcome for them to get their HEA was emotional.
This book flows effortlessly even through the darker parts, Bea is one of my fave authors and knew she would give these characters all that they deserved.
March 24, 2023
Meh I preferred the first one and I'm annoyed I did a re-read for this one because honestly this one wasn't good at all too depressing and then just too boring... Which is a shame because the first book was everything so honestly this book getting two stars is lucky... I'm giving the starts to beast anyway he had me laughing my head off 🤣 but other than that disappointed in this book and just glad I've finished it.
March 31, 2023
Another amazing read by Bea Paige! This was such a great finish to this story and was great to see some of the other loved characters from other series. This story has some great depth and healing, but also a lot of dark matter. I highly recommend this series, but do read the triggers as this may not be suitable for all readers.
March 23, 2023
Great ending to Cyn and her men's story. It is full of emotion and healing and the story ends with them finally getting their well deserved happy ending.
July 3, 2023
2.5 Stars
August 19, 2024
A medida que avanzaba, me aburrí mucho, así que me llevó un tiempo terminarla.
March 20, 2023
Cyn, holy cow, was just amazing in this series. Oh how I love her and how she loves and takes care of the ones that she loves. She will do anything for you, you will definitely want her in your corner. I mean come on, when you have two sets of dangerous men, in the Deana-dhe and the Masks who will fight wars for you, come on you have to be something special. Yes, yes she is.
Now the guys, omg I fell more in love with them. They really needed to come together to get Cyn back, and hey did. The realization and comfort they gave one another while looking for Cyn was hot and spot on.
Of course there was action, anxiety level was high, I just wanted them to get her back. Be prepared to cry, because I did, there was a part in here that just broke my heart. It was hard for Cyn and it was hard as a reader to as well.
Overall this duet was freaking awesome. I loved it, well done Bea. I would highly recommend this duet to read and honestly any of Bea's books.
Now the guys, omg I fell more in love with them. They really needed to come together to get Cyn back, and hey did. The realization and comfort they gave one another while looking for Cyn was hot and spot on.
Of course there was action, anxiety level was high, I just wanted them to get her back. Be prepared to cry, because I did, there was a part in here that just broke my heart. It was hard for Cyn and it was hard as a reader to as well.
Overall this duet was freaking awesome. I loved it, well done Bea. I would highly recommend this duet to read and honestly any of Bea's books.
May 28, 2023
Heartwrenching
Such a heartwrenching tale. First one way, then the other. I loved this conclusion to the Deana-Dhe's and Cyn's story. Very fitting for them. Loved all the cameo's from our old favourites too, was so much fun! This world will forever hold a place in my heart and mind. 😍
Such a heartwrenching tale. First one way, then the other. I loved this conclusion to the Deana-Dhe's and Cyn's story. Very fitting for them. Loved all the cameo's from our old favourites too, was so much fun! This world will forever hold a place in my heart and mind. 😍
March 20, 2023
What an emotionally rich finale! Painful yet restorative, heartbreaking yet hopeful, horrific yet beautiful. There are perhaps no character more dichotomous than the Deana-Dhe, so I can’t imagine a better finale than one that juxtaposes all the darkness with all the light. Curses and Cures- well, both are at play. Bea Paige delivers a page turning action adventure that is also a heart hitting and emotionally heavy story of trauma and healing. My heart was in my throat, my stomach in knot as I desperately turned the pages. This story vibrates with hurt, but it also shines with hope and love, and I can’t imagine a better finale for the complicated Deana-Dhe and their butterfly.
This is by far one of Bea’s darkest works, darker to me than the masks since so much is recounted to us on page. But is also one of Bea’s most emotively impactful works, too. And the darkness serves a purpose- it’s not trauma porn. Ultimately, our characters have to be completely broken in order to finally heal and love each other entirely. They have to first figure out how to SURVIVE in the most literal of terms so they can stop surviving in the most figurative- stop surviving but thriving. And the juxtaposition of those elements is really what makes this story magic- how Bea gives us so much heartbreak, trauma, and pain- how she drags us through the darkest depths of vileness all so that we can SEE how much these characters change for each other, and so we can revel in the lightness and peace they find in their healing and growth.
Narratively, this story felt night and day to the first in the duet- as book 1 really situated us in the history and past, leaned heavy on the origins and the turbulent intrapersonal issues between Cyn and the Deana-Dhe. The friction, the tension existed primarily between them- they were the antagonists in each other’s stories…until, well, they weren’t. The emotional energy was immersively volatile and desperate, the angst choking. But book 2 takes a different turn- a external antagonist and a heart-wrenching situation divide our quad-ruple (is that a thing?!), but their SOULS are no longer divided. Despite the horrific situation Cyn finds herself, this second book is heart bleedingly romantic- part rescue mission, part the best groveling ever. The Deana-Dhe have to save our girl, but since they do, they have a lot of making up to do for all the years of damage they themselves inflicted- and HOLY MOLY do they deliver some swoony alpha grovel. The first part of this story is all action and tragedy, and the second is richly relationally immersive. The emotional story is full of adrenaline and then just heaviness. SO MUCH HEAVINESS. There’s a horror and melancholy that permeates their progression, but one that morphs and twists into hesitant healing, cathartic trust, and and most of all, hopeful. Bea weaves an unexpectedly diverse emotional tapestry, but oh my it is so fulfilling. My heart felt so swollen with FEELING for these characters that I thought it might stop beating.
At it’s core, this is a story of healing and transformation. Characters united by past pain and toxic emotional expression that find a way to overcome not only all of the really bad stuff that has happened to them, but they also and most IMPORTANTLY learn to overcome parts of themselves. The ways in which their trauma has disfigured their hearts and souls. This final story is all about two very crucial rescues that inspire that transformation- one of physical and mortal danger, and the other more a metaphysical and psychological one. And the most magical part of that process it that Cyn is their savior in BOTH. Her strength, her resilience, her resolve are the beating heart and soul of this story. She loves SO big and freely ,and her vulnerable strength and cleverness shines so brightly. But we should have known that Cyn would never give up- she’s always been a battered and bruised character, but never BROKEN. But Bea sure did push the limits with her- and perhaps she does in fact break. And my heart broke with her- tears for the harrowing things she experiences. But Cyn survives like a Phoenix in the ashes, emerging stronger, more clear, and most of all, better loved. The Deana-Dhe- how Bea transformed them from depraved anti-heroes into the most swoony protectors and lovers, I don't even know- but she did, and I am so madly in love with them now.
Fans of Bea’s past work will be please to know that not only do we get the Masks and their lady love coming to help save the day, but we also get a delicious dose of Grim’s bad-a energy and Beast’s snarky protective-ism. I loved how everything came full circle- how all the groundwork that has been laid as far back as when we met some of these characters in the Academy of Stardom came together into a whole complete puzzle. Wars are ended, feuds squashes, enemies forced to work together, and this rag-tag group of criminal and lovable sociopaths come together in the best suicide squad bunch ever. Mad props to Beast for bringing the comedic flair just when we needed it.
The world can be an ugly place- fictional or otherwise, and these characters are no stranger to it. In fact, some have contributed to it. What I’ve always found so compelling about Bea’s writing is how she never shies away from that architecture- building worlds and stories that embrace not only the grey all around us but the grey within. Pain, trauma, despair, hopelessness- it’s as much a part of our humanity as breathing. But though it all the light is ALWAYS love. Love heals, love inspires, love fulfills, love hopes. And love can transform- take the worst of us and help us find the best, EVEN in the darkness. Even in the pain. And the Deana-dhe are tragically beautiful reminder that destination can outweigh the journey, that LOVE is stronger than the worst we can face- and it’s always worth the fight. It’s worth LIVING for. And if we LIVE with love…well, Cras es noster…Tomorrow is ours.
Brava- another breathtaking and heart wrenching story that captured me whole.
This is by far one of Bea’s darkest works, darker to me than the masks since so much is recounted to us on page. But is also one of Bea’s most emotively impactful works, too. And the darkness serves a purpose- it’s not trauma porn. Ultimately, our characters have to be completely broken in order to finally heal and love each other entirely. They have to first figure out how to SURVIVE in the most literal of terms so they can stop surviving in the most figurative- stop surviving but thriving. And the juxtaposition of those elements is really what makes this story magic- how Bea gives us so much heartbreak, trauma, and pain- how she drags us through the darkest depths of vileness all so that we can SEE how much these characters change for each other, and so we can revel in the lightness and peace they find in their healing and growth.
Narratively, this story felt night and day to the first in the duet- as book 1 really situated us in the history and past, leaned heavy on the origins and the turbulent intrapersonal issues between Cyn and the Deana-Dhe. The friction, the tension existed primarily between them- they were the antagonists in each other’s stories…until, well, they weren’t. The emotional energy was immersively volatile and desperate, the angst choking. But book 2 takes a different turn- a external antagonist and a heart-wrenching situation divide our quad-ruple (is that a thing?!), but their SOULS are no longer divided. Despite the horrific situation Cyn finds herself, this second book is heart bleedingly romantic- part rescue mission, part the best groveling ever. The Deana-Dhe have to save our girl, but since they do, they have a lot of making up to do for all the years of damage they themselves inflicted- and HOLY MOLY do they deliver some swoony alpha grovel. The first part of this story is all action and tragedy, and the second is richly relationally immersive. The emotional story is full of adrenaline and then just heaviness. SO MUCH HEAVINESS. There’s a horror and melancholy that permeates their progression, but one that morphs and twists into hesitant healing, cathartic trust, and and most of all, hopeful. Bea weaves an unexpectedly diverse emotional tapestry, but oh my it is so fulfilling. My heart felt so swollen with FEELING for these characters that I thought it might stop beating.
At it’s core, this is a story of healing and transformation. Characters united by past pain and toxic emotional expression that find a way to overcome not only all of the really bad stuff that has happened to them, but they also and most IMPORTANTLY learn to overcome parts of themselves. The ways in which their trauma has disfigured their hearts and souls. This final story is all about two very crucial rescues that inspire that transformation- one of physical and mortal danger, and the other more a metaphysical and psychological one. And the most magical part of that process it that Cyn is their savior in BOTH. Her strength, her resilience, her resolve are the beating heart and soul of this story. She loves SO big and freely ,and her vulnerable strength and cleverness shines so brightly. But we should have known that Cyn would never give up- she’s always been a battered and bruised character, but never BROKEN. But Bea sure did push the limits with her- and perhaps she does in fact break. And my heart broke with her- tears for the harrowing things she experiences. But Cyn survives like a Phoenix in the ashes, emerging stronger, more clear, and most of all, better loved. The Deana-Dhe- how Bea transformed them from depraved anti-heroes into the most swoony protectors and lovers, I don't even know- but she did, and I am so madly in love with them now.
Fans of Bea’s past work will be please to know that not only do we get the Masks and their lady love coming to help save the day, but we also get a delicious dose of Grim’s bad-a energy and Beast’s snarky protective-ism. I loved how everything came full circle- how all the groundwork that has been laid as far back as when we met some of these characters in the Academy of Stardom came together into a whole complete puzzle. Wars are ended, feuds squashes, enemies forced to work together, and this rag-tag group of criminal and lovable sociopaths come together in the best suicide squad bunch ever. Mad props to Beast for bringing the comedic flair just when we needed it.
The world can be an ugly place- fictional or otherwise, and these characters are no stranger to it. In fact, some have contributed to it. What I’ve always found so compelling about Bea’s writing is how she never shies away from that architecture- building worlds and stories that embrace not only the grey all around us but the grey within. Pain, trauma, despair, hopelessness- it’s as much a part of our humanity as breathing. But though it all the light is ALWAYS love. Love heals, love inspires, love fulfills, love hopes. And love can transform- take the worst of us and help us find the best, EVEN in the darkness. Even in the pain. And the Deana-dhe are tragically beautiful reminder that destination can outweigh the journey, that LOVE is stronger than the worst we can face- and it’s always worth the fight. It’s worth LIVING for. And if we LIVE with love…well, Cras es noster…Tomorrow is ours.
Brava- another breathtaking and heart wrenching story that captured me whole.
March 25, 2023
This was the perfect conclusion for this duet ! I love Cyn and her men ! This book was so emotional it was painful but healing this was such a beautiful journey I love the Deana Dhe they were perfect for Cyn and she is just what they needed I loved that we got to see past characters as well this was overall just so good definitely had me up in all my feels this author never disappoints!
August 8, 2025
What an ending to the Duet i absolutely love these and can't wait to read and audio some more for Bea paige absolutely amazing duet to read.
March 19, 2023
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:
4/5⭐️
3/5🔥
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬, 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐖/𝐓𝐖:
MMMMF/RH/multi POV/ HEA/slow burn/grief/trauma/kidnapping/physical abuse/sexual assault/trafficking/drugs/death/gore/murder… and more
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰:
This is book 2 of the Deana-Dhe Duet and can NOT be read as a stand alone.. you must start with Debts and Diamonds. This is set in the same world as Bea’s other series: mainly her Grim and Beast Duet and Their Obsession Duet. It is not necessary to read those first but if you’re looking for a better reading experience, I suggest following Bea’s recommended reading order as there are several cameos from quite a few of those characters.
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
This book starts relatively right where Debts and Diamonds left us. The Skull Brotherhood are some of the darkest and depraved men. The way they treat women is just unfathomable. Cyn is not only a healer but a survivor. She was so damn strong throughout her time with the Skulls. My heart literally broke for her. I loved that Cyn’s faith in her guys never faltered. And I loved watching the guys be the Deana-Dhe everyone feared. Nothing was going to stop them from getting back their girl.
This was not a quick reunion (so don’t expect them to all be happy and sailing off into the sun by chapter 2…) but after Cyn’s rescue, this book was all about healing, growing, connecting and moving on from pain and grief and loss. There were so many emotions rolling through this book. We really got to see not only the group relationship grow, but each individual relationship. Arden, Carrick and Loren all brought something different in helping Cyn heal. We do also find out a bit of history about the guys past traumas too, and then having Cyn help them heal in return.
God, this book hurt, but I promise it will all be okay in the end. This book was intense and not for the faint of heart. Bea held nothing back with this one and I commend her for it. This book did touch on some hard subjects. But for all the heartbreak and pain, there was love and life… and then all the spice… shheesshhh. I will put this out there and say I don’t think I’ve never wanted to fuck in the dirt during the middle of a raging thunder storm so much 🥵 Jesus.
The HEA in this book was hard won and astonishing. Then to top that baby off with a primal chase scene… I’m done! 🫠🔥 I absolutely loved seeing Beast a bit. He seemed playful in this duet, but still his super deadly self. I enjoyed seeing The Mask and Christy too. I can’t wait to see where Bea takes this world next.
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬:
“Cras es noster… Tomorrow is ours.”
"We're each other's, always were, always will be,"
“We love few people, but when we do it’s fierce and real and everlasting.”
“I’m going to make you come so hard, our plants will grow with your pleasure running through their stems. They’ll be so fucking beautiful, Cyn. They’ll be a reminder of how we made love in the dirt with a storm raging around us. They’ll be a reminder of how we chose to live,”
"When we fuck, we fuck with pleasure in mind… We'll fuck each other, we'll fuck you, but every single time you'll be our focus, the one woman who owns us. Pleasure is meant to be shared, and we’ll share you and each other every day for the rest of our lives if you’ll let us.”
“Use her panties, Carrick. Wrap the drenched material around your cock and when I fuck your arse think about how tight her pussy is going to be when she comes for Lorcan. I know I will be.”
4/5⭐️
3/5🔥
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬, 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐖/𝐓𝐖:
MMMMF/RH/multi POV/ HEA/slow burn/grief/trauma/kidnapping/physical abuse/sexual assault/trafficking/drugs/death/gore/murder… and more
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰:
This is book 2 of the Deana-Dhe Duet and can NOT be read as a stand alone.. you must start with Debts and Diamonds. This is set in the same world as Bea’s other series: mainly her Grim and Beast Duet and Their Obsession Duet. It is not necessary to read those first but if you’re looking for a better reading experience, I suggest following Bea’s recommended reading order as there are several cameos from quite a few of those characters.
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
This book starts relatively right where Debts and Diamonds left us. The Skull Brotherhood are some of the darkest and depraved men. The way they treat women is just unfathomable. Cyn is not only a healer but a survivor. She was so damn strong throughout her time with the Skulls. My heart literally broke for her. I loved that Cyn’s faith in her guys never faltered. And I loved watching the guys be the Deana-Dhe everyone feared. Nothing was going to stop them from getting back their girl.
This was not a quick reunion (so don’t expect them to all be happy and sailing off into the sun by chapter 2…) but after Cyn’s rescue, this book was all about healing, growing, connecting and moving on from pain and grief and loss. There were so many emotions rolling through this book. We really got to see not only the group relationship grow, but each individual relationship. Arden, Carrick and Loren all brought something different in helping Cyn heal. We do also find out a bit of history about the guys past traumas too, and then having Cyn help them heal in return.
God, this book hurt, but I promise it will all be okay in the end. This book was intense and not for the faint of heart. Bea held nothing back with this one and I commend her for it. This book did touch on some hard subjects. But for all the heartbreak and pain, there was love and life… and then all the spice… shheesshhh. I will put this out there and say I don’t think I’ve never wanted to fuck in the dirt during the middle of a raging thunder storm so much 🥵 Jesus.
The HEA in this book was hard won and astonishing. Then to top that baby off with a primal chase scene… I’m done! 🫠🔥 I absolutely loved seeing Beast a bit. He seemed playful in this duet, but still his super deadly self. I enjoyed seeing The Mask and Christy too. I can’t wait to see where Bea takes this world next.
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬:
“Cras es noster… Tomorrow is ours.”
"We're each other's, always were, always will be,"
“We love few people, but when we do it’s fierce and real and everlasting.”
“I’m going to make you come so hard, our plants will grow with your pleasure running through their stems. They’ll be so fucking beautiful, Cyn. They’ll be a reminder of how we made love in the dirt with a storm raging around us. They’ll be a reminder of how we chose to live,”
"When we fuck, we fuck with pleasure in mind… We'll fuck each other, we'll fuck you, but every single time you'll be our focus, the one woman who owns us. Pleasure is meant to be shared, and we’ll share you and each other every day for the rest of our lives if you’ll let us.”
“Use her panties, Carrick. Wrap the drenched material around your cock and when I fuck your arse think about how tight her pussy is going to be when she comes for Lorcan. I know I will be.”
March 25, 2023
4.5 stars for this final book of the duet!
I thought book 2 was full of emotion, tension, heartbreak, humor, and everything you want in a book. I liked book 1 but I liked book 2 even more. I think this one showed the brutality from outside the harem more and the group coming together to save Cyn, even with their sworn enemies as their allies, it was just a beautiful story with how it unfolded. Book 1 focused on how the guys tortured and bullied Cyn when they were kids, how they ended up the way they did at the end of the Masks and the Dancer, but this one gave us more depth of who they are now, how they overcome deplorable situations, and how they become a cohesive and strengthened unit, family by the end. And again loved all the cameos!!
The way the women are treated by the Skull Brotherhood is hard to read, these guys don’t seen women as people. They are their toys and can be used however they want, or tortured for their own pleasure. Cyn has to remain strong throughout everything. The pain from what she went through, the confrontation between our group and the Brotherhood had causalities, so seeing how the characters get through that was tough. Cyn has to be brought back from her depressive state any way they can. They each help her heal, I loved the play on her body, mind, and soul. She was something to each of them, the healer previously, so they all needed to be there for her for once and help her. Again it was hard to read some sections, read the trigger warnings, but be ready for some beautiful prose (and steamy sex scenes!!!) to help them all get their HEA ❤️
Ok won’t give anything else away besides Beast will be my ultimate favorite character of this author for all-time. His comedic relief and brash comments are so adorable and funny. This book has more dark moments than book 1 but a heck of a lot more laughs. I mean, he makes bathroom jokes like some of my coworkers would, couldnt help giggle. I loved the expansion of the MM moments, I hope this author decides to write a MM romance in the future, I think it would be fun. It would have to be a total enemies to lovers with hot hate sex based on the characters and tension she is so good at writing haha. I loved the healing nature of some of the sex scenes, and especially the garden 🔥🔥🔥 smutty moment haha. That’s all I will say haha. I had a tough time picking a favorite guy, but my heart went out to Carrick a lot, but I think I appreciated Arden’s transformation the most and how he helped heal Cyn. Cyn is one of my favorite leading ladies from any of this author’s shared world. She is such a BA, a survivor, and would be an amazing bestie haha.
Definitely recommend this series, but I wouldn’t start with this one if you are new to the author. It is definitely better to read at least Their Obsession duet because the Masks and the Deana-dhe guys have so much history that is intertwined. I never want to leave this shared world. I know eventually this author will branch out but these characters and world is EVERYTHING. Love them so much 😍
I thought book 2 was full of emotion, tension, heartbreak, humor, and everything you want in a book. I liked book 1 but I liked book 2 even more. I think this one showed the brutality from outside the harem more and the group coming together to save Cyn, even with their sworn enemies as their allies, it was just a beautiful story with how it unfolded. Book 1 focused on how the guys tortured and bullied Cyn when they were kids, how they ended up the way they did at the end of the Masks and the Dancer, but this one gave us more depth of who they are now, how they overcome deplorable situations, and how they become a cohesive and strengthened unit, family by the end. And again loved all the cameos!!
The way the women are treated by the Skull Brotherhood is hard to read, these guys don’t seen women as people. They are their toys and can be used however they want, or tortured for their own pleasure. Cyn has to remain strong throughout everything. The pain from what she went through, the confrontation between our group and the Brotherhood had causalities, so seeing how the characters get through that was tough. Cyn has to be brought back from her depressive state any way they can. They each help her heal, I loved the play on her body, mind, and soul. She was something to each of them, the healer previously, so they all needed to be there for her for once and help her. Again it was hard to read some sections, read the trigger warnings, but be ready for some beautiful prose (and steamy sex scenes!!!) to help them all get their HEA ❤️
Ok won’t give anything else away besides Beast will be my ultimate favorite character of this author for all-time. His comedic relief and brash comments are so adorable and funny. This book has more dark moments than book 1 but a heck of a lot more laughs. I mean, he makes bathroom jokes like some of my coworkers would, couldnt help giggle. I loved the expansion of the MM moments, I hope this author decides to write a MM romance in the future, I think it would be fun. It would have to be a total enemies to lovers with hot hate sex based on the characters and tension she is so good at writing haha. I loved the healing nature of some of the sex scenes, and especially the garden 🔥🔥🔥 smutty moment haha. That’s all I will say haha. I had a tough time picking a favorite guy, but my heart went out to Carrick a lot, but I think I appreciated Arden’s transformation the most and how he helped heal Cyn. Cyn is one of my favorite leading ladies from any of this author’s shared world. She is such a BA, a survivor, and would be an amazing bestie haha.
Definitely recommend this series, but I wouldn’t start with this one if you are new to the author. It is definitely better to read at least Their Obsession duet because the Masks and the Deana-dhe guys have so much history that is intertwined. I never want to leave this shared world. I know eventually this author will branch out but these characters and world is EVERYTHING. Love them so much 😍
March 24, 2023
boring not worth the wait
More guy on guy action overall than her and her harem. I’m not against the gog action, I love it when done well, but so much was made throughout book about how she was the key to them all and how their lust was all about her yet for many years they had sex together all the time and shared women together also just fine without her. 🤷🏼♀️
It was really boring, parts of it didn’t make sense and the spice was low. I had to come back to the book several times and I’m the kind that binges a book all at once. I skimmed soooooo much of this book.
Stupid plot points, like why the fmc crazy devastation after a pregnant side characters death? She (fmc) knew this chick for like two days? And to name her kid after her (epilogue)? And to be catatonic for weeks after the big fight scene and death of that lady? The woman was the bad guys captive sex slave, not her friend or anything.
Nothing made sense in this book. Nothing. It was like they threw everything and the kitchen sink in. Characters from her other books thrown in while adding nothing to plot. What, just so they could say hi?
The three main male characters were supposed to be feared by all, like just their names whispered could hurt ya lol, but I saw nothing and I mean nothing that showed that. More was made of their bullying of fmc in flashbacks. No current day bad guy action that shows how bad ass they were. You can’t just say how feared they are you have to show it!!!!! They honestly came across as very weak and easy to defeat. Author couldn’t have written some scenes that showed their bloodlust or alphaness? They came across sooooooo beta they were almost omega lmaoooo.
The villain 🦹🏻♂️ was so pathetic… Ooooooo he has the bones of his prior victims in his bedroom. Oooooo he was tattooed like a skeleton….. Yawn……
There was no balance between storyline and sexy times. In two books FMC had only three total sexy scenes and those had to be together with all the boys……… 3!!!!! And yet the boys had one on ones with each other and three somes with each other. On page and off page described. Gawd even while having their first real sexy scene together in this book which btw was well past 60%, mmc has to “explain” that even while they f&&&ed each other and shared women together all these years, it was really her at the back of their minds all along….. ummm could you have said that maybe NOT while in midst of doing it with her? Sigh…… On the way to save her they (3mmc) literally had a threesome on plane together to release tension. Really had her in mind didn’t they? 🤔
The character of Carrick seemed so passionate yet he was turned into a caricature who liked to be bit on his shoulder cause she did it once. So not everyone had to bite him while doing sexy times. Why was this so heavily in the plot???? 🙄
Fmc really has a horrible time with no real fun fun.
Huge disappointment, Wont read another of this author.
More guy on guy action overall than her and her harem. I’m not against the gog action, I love it when done well, but so much was made throughout book about how she was the key to them all and how their lust was all about her yet for many years they had sex together all the time and shared women together also just fine without her. 🤷🏼♀️
It was really boring, parts of it didn’t make sense and the spice was low. I had to come back to the book several times and I’m the kind that binges a book all at once. I skimmed soooooo much of this book.
Stupid plot points, like why the fmc crazy devastation after a pregnant side characters death? She (fmc) knew this chick for like two days? And to name her kid after her (epilogue)? And to be catatonic for weeks after the big fight scene and death of that lady? The woman was the bad guys captive sex slave, not her friend or anything.
Nothing made sense in this book. Nothing. It was like they threw everything and the kitchen sink in. Characters from her other books thrown in while adding nothing to plot. What, just so they could say hi?
The three main male characters were supposed to be feared by all, like just their names whispered could hurt ya lol, but I saw nothing and I mean nothing that showed that. More was made of their bullying of fmc in flashbacks. No current day bad guy action that shows how bad ass they were. You can’t just say how feared they are you have to show it!!!!! They honestly came across as very weak and easy to defeat. Author couldn’t have written some scenes that showed their bloodlust or alphaness? They came across sooooooo beta they were almost omega lmaoooo.
The villain 🦹🏻♂️ was so pathetic… Ooooooo he has the bones of his prior victims in his bedroom. Oooooo he was tattooed like a skeleton….. Yawn……
There was no balance between storyline and sexy times. In two books FMC had only three total sexy scenes and those had to be together with all the boys……… 3!!!!! And yet the boys had one on ones with each other and three somes with each other. On page and off page described. Gawd even while having their first real sexy scene together in this book which btw was well past 60%, mmc has to “explain” that even while they f&&&ed each other and shared women together all these years, it was really her at the back of their minds all along….. ummm could you have said that maybe NOT while in midst of doing it with her? Sigh…… On the way to save her they (3mmc) literally had a threesome on plane together to release tension. Really had her in mind didn’t they? 🤔
The character of Carrick seemed so passionate yet he was turned into a caricature who liked to be bit on his shoulder cause she did it once. So not everyone had to bite him while doing sexy times. Why was this so heavily in the plot???? 🙄
Fmc really has a horrible time with no real fun fun.
Huge disappointment, Wont read another of this author.
March 29, 2023
3.5/3.75 ⭐️
Cures & Curses is the second part in The Deana-Dhe duet series.
Picking up from the cliffhanger ending in Debts & Diamonds, the book has us jumping right back into the story without any time having past.
The set up of the narrative differed in this book, having been split into two parts which was surprising for me, having not expected it.
Part One focused on the events that took place at the end of Debts & Diamonds, leading to the showcasing of two different journeys.
On the one hand you had Cyn trying to survive the terrible ordeal that she finds herself in at the hands of Skull Brotherhood, waiting to be rescued by Deana-Dhe.
And on the other hand, simultaneously you saw Deana-Dhe aka Lorcan, Arden and Carrick’s side of the story play out, seeing them team up with The Masks and Beast in trying to find and rescue Cyn.
Part Two focused on the aftermath results, considering the trauma Cyn has endured. Whilst slowly seeing the continuation within the blossoming of the relationship she shared with her guys Lorcan, Arden and Carrick. Paving way for much needed growth, however it wasn’t without its ups and downs as they all still had a lot to overcome, making their journey more authentic and realistic in it not being smooth sailing.
Particularly on Cyn’s part, due to the battle she had suffered through leading to her having to endure her own inner obstacles before fully reuniting with Deana-Dhe mentally and physically once and for all.
There was also the case of appearances being made by her family members, which brought forth some revelations bringing more to the story from what was revealed, filling in some missing pieces when it came to Cyn’s life story.
It needs to be known that the story was a good read to me, with enjoyable moments to be had throughout, considering Bea was able to have me read the whole book and not give up.
However that doesn’t mean it wasn’t without its fault because there was, since there were issues to be had with the book for me.
Firstly the use of MM didn’t sit right with me, mainly because of one particular scene.
It just seemed unnecessary and not needed IMO,
Honestly that scene seemed more like a fetish, and with the reason given behind it made it worse IMO with trying to justify or make it work.
The build up to the climax and how quickly it was over felt very anticlimactic IMO.
With how fast everything was overcame given the resolvement resulted in happening in the blink of an eye, it made it feel rushed through.
Given how important this part of the story was, it had me expecting a lot more than what was delivered. Having ultimately left me a little unsatisfied.
There was also the case of the narrative feeling a little slow at times, as if there was no progress within any movement being had. Which is what caused my attention to wane in those moments.
With that said, Cures & Curses was still a decent read. Since Bea Paige was able to keep me reading on and not giving up even despite my issues.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Cures & Curses is the second part in The Deana-Dhe duet series.
Picking up from the cliffhanger ending in Debts & Diamonds, the book has us jumping right back into the story without any time having past.
The set up of the narrative differed in this book, having been split into two parts which was surprising for me, having not expected it.
Part One focused on the events that took place at the end of Debts & Diamonds, leading to the showcasing of two different journeys.
On the one hand you had Cyn trying to survive the terrible ordeal that she finds herself in at the hands of Skull Brotherhood, waiting to be rescued by Deana-Dhe.
And on the other hand, simultaneously you saw Deana-Dhe aka Lorcan, Arden and Carrick’s side of the story play out, seeing them team up with The Masks and Beast in trying to find and rescue Cyn.
Part Two focused on the aftermath results, considering the trauma Cyn has endured. Whilst slowly seeing the continuation within the blossoming of the relationship she shared with her guys Lorcan, Arden and Carrick. Paving way for much needed growth, however it wasn’t without its ups and downs as they all still had a lot to overcome, making their journey more authentic and realistic in it not being smooth sailing.
Particularly on Cyn’s part, due to the battle she had suffered through leading to her having to endure her own inner obstacles before fully reuniting with Deana-Dhe mentally and physically once and for all.
There was also the case of appearances being made by her family members, which brought forth some revelations bringing more to the story from what was revealed, filling in some missing pieces when it came to Cyn’s life story.
It needs to be known that the story was a good read to me, with enjoyable moments to be had throughout, considering Bea was able to have me read the whole book and not give up.
However that doesn’t mean it wasn’t without its fault because there was, since there were issues to be had with the book for me.
Firstly the use of MM didn’t sit right with me, mainly because of one particular scene.
It just seemed unnecessary and not needed IMO,
Honestly that scene seemed more like a fetish, and with the reason given behind it made it worse IMO with trying to justify or make it work.
The build up to the climax and how quickly it was over felt very anticlimactic IMO.
With how fast everything was overcame given the resolvement resulted in happening in the blink of an eye, it made it feel rushed through.
Given how important this part of the story was, it had me expecting a lot more than what was delivered. Having ultimately left me a little unsatisfied.
There was also the case of the narrative feeling a little slow at times, as if there was no progress within any movement being had. Which is what caused my attention to wane in those moments.
With that said, Cures & Curses was still a decent read. Since Bea Paige was able to keep me reading on and not giving up even despite my issues.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2023
Curses and Cures - The Deana-Dhe Duet, Book #2 - Review
Couple: Cyn with Arden, Lorcan and Carrick
Author: Bea Paige
Tropes: enemy to lover, PNR, RH romance, dark romance, bully romance, fated mates romance, mystical romance
Review: Book 2 is an epic conclusion to the Deana-Dhe duet and starts exactly where we leave in books 1. Book 2 is written 100% in real time with very little from the past. It is written in multiple POVs and brings in characters from prior series within the world Bea Paige has created.
We begin right after Cyn’s capture by the Skulls. We learn where she is and what is happening to her as her secrets begin to catch up to her. I have to say the inner spine of steel she shows in book2 is phenomenal and heartbreaking. As we begin to learn the plots that started when Cyn was young and how they lead to this point, we also begin to see how she has been shaped over time into the woman she is now. In true sense of the word, Cyn is a Queen! She protects those around her while in captivity and fights back the whole time while also holding out hope all will end with her rescue.
Carrick is perhaps the MMC that has the most growth in this book. At times it was tragic to read his chapters since his guilt and love for Cyn was so great. I also liked Lorcan in this book, he truly became Cyn’s person. I did not like Arden as much but also felt like his character fit into the group just right and that Cyn balanced him out.
I enjoyed seeing past characters return, especially the Masks! Although, they have their own series I loved getting to have the again briefly. Bea Paige wrote their meeting and truce perfectly and I was happy that both groups got over their struggles for Cyn.
The heat in book 2 is HOT and many developments occur. There are scenes of MM and MFM so if that is not your thing then skip ahead! Overall, the book was written well and the characters made you love the world.
I recommend this for any dark romance fans who enjoy a slice of mystical themes.
Rating: 10/10, the ending is perfect for the duet and many conflicts get resolved, sad to see the end!
Couple: Cyn with Arden, Lorcan and Carrick
Author: Bea Paige
Tropes: enemy to lover, PNR, RH romance, dark romance, bully romance, fated mates romance, mystical romance
Review: Book 2 is an epic conclusion to the Deana-Dhe duet and starts exactly where we leave in books 1. Book 2 is written 100% in real time with very little from the past. It is written in multiple POVs and brings in characters from prior series within the world Bea Paige has created.
We begin right after Cyn’s capture by the Skulls. We learn where she is and what is happening to her as her secrets begin to catch up to her. I have to say the inner spine of steel she shows in book2 is phenomenal and heartbreaking. As we begin to learn the plots that started when Cyn was young and how they lead to this point, we also begin to see how she has been shaped over time into the woman she is now. In true sense of the word, Cyn is a Queen! She protects those around her while in captivity and fights back the whole time while also holding out hope all will end with her rescue.
Carrick is perhaps the MMC that has the most growth in this book. At times it was tragic to read his chapters since his guilt and love for Cyn was so great. I also liked Lorcan in this book, he truly became Cyn’s person. I did not like Arden as much but also felt like his character fit into the group just right and that Cyn balanced him out.
I enjoyed seeing past characters return, especially the Masks! Although, they have their own series I loved getting to have the again briefly. Bea Paige wrote their meeting and truce perfectly and I was happy that both groups got over their struggles for Cyn.
The heat in book 2 is HOT and many developments occur. There are scenes of MM and MFM so if that is not your thing then skip ahead! Overall, the book was written well and the characters made you love the world.
I recommend this for any dark romance fans who enjoy a slice of mystical themes.
Rating: 10/10, the ending is perfect for the duet and many conflicts get resolved, sad to see the end!
March 20, 2023
This has been my most anticipated book since I finished Debts and Diamonds and it did not disappoint! It was so absolutely alluring. For a dark book it was highly emotional. Way more than I was expecting. It was pure heartbreaking, gut wrenching emotion. It was raw and painful in parts yet beautiful and passionate in others. Definitely one that touched my heart and left a mark.
I already loved Cyn from the first book but this cemented her as my favorite heroine ever! She is so brave and selfless. Not overly bold and brash but quite and calm and underestimated by most. She is grace personified and a pure light that couldn't be snuffed out in even the darkest of conditions. She was a quiet and calm character that so often goes unnoticed and I was happy to see that type of personality represented.
It was relatively low angst with the guys, as we already know how they feel at the end of the first book so now it’s putting it all on the table and proving it. Carrick was my favorite here. He showed the most emotion and growth as a character. I did still love Lorcan and Arden too!
Can I also take a minute to say how awesome Beast was! He was hilarious and added just enough cockyness and humor to keep the story from getting too heavy. He was fantastic and I love him so much!!
This was an amazing duet and one I know I will be doing a re-read of in the future because I loved these characters so much. The story itself was beautifully written and has such a lovely flow. You forget your reading and time just flys by because you are so enthralled by the story. I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend it!
I already loved Cyn from the first book but this cemented her as my favorite heroine ever! She is so brave and selfless. Not overly bold and brash but quite and calm and underestimated by most. She is grace personified and a pure light that couldn't be snuffed out in even the darkest of conditions. She was a quiet and calm character that so often goes unnoticed and I was happy to see that type of personality represented.
It was relatively low angst with the guys, as we already know how they feel at the end of the first book so now it’s putting it all on the table and proving it. Carrick was my favorite here. He showed the most emotion and growth as a character. I did still love Lorcan and Arden too!
Can I also take a minute to say how awesome Beast was! He was hilarious and added just enough cockyness and humor to keep the story from getting too heavy. He was fantastic and I love him so much!!
This was an amazing duet and one I know I will be doing a re-read of in the future because I loved these characters so much. The story itself was beautifully written and has such a lovely flow. You forget your reading and time just flys by because you are so enthralled by the story. I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend it!
March 18, 2023
Oh my god… I can’t stop crying after finishing this book. Bea, what have you done to me?!? I’m an absolute wreck. This book was incredible. It was funny, sweet, intense, heart breaking, spicy and just literally everything! Picking up from Debts & Diamonds, Cyn is surviving during her time with the Skull Brotherhood. It was sometimes painful to read those parts and read the trauma Cyn and the other women faced at their hands but it was so vital in order to understand that shattering moment on the Skull’s Celebration Day. I was heart broken and couldn’t stop sobbing as I kept reading.
Cyn is absolutely incredible and so strong. I struggled with really liking the guys in the first book cause they did some messed up things to her over the years but to watch them come to terms with their love was absolutely breathtaking. The lengths they will go for her was unreal and I loved every minute of watching each relationship group along side them growing as a group too. And whew those spicy scenes were hot AF. The garden moment with Arden and then the 3 minute challenge in the room next to the guests was sooooo good. IYKYK. So good!!
I am going to miss this Cyn, Lorcan, Carrick and Arden so much and I loved seeing some of my other favorites back again too. I still adore Beast and his playfulness in all the serious moments made me laugh and was utter perfection. I’m not sure if there is anyone left in this world to write about but I do know that if Bea writes it, then I’m 1000% going to read it!
Cyn is absolutely incredible and so strong. I struggled with really liking the guys in the first book cause they did some messed up things to her over the years but to watch them come to terms with their love was absolutely breathtaking. The lengths they will go for her was unreal and I loved every minute of watching each relationship group along side them growing as a group too. And whew those spicy scenes were hot AF. The garden moment with Arden and then the 3 minute challenge in the room next to the guests was sooooo good. IYKYK. So good!!
I am going to miss this Cyn, Lorcan, Carrick and Arden so much and I loved seeing some of my other favorites back again too. I still adore Beast and his playfulness in all the serious moments made me laugh and was utter perfection. I’m not sure if there is anyone left in this world to write about but I do know that if Bea writes it, then I’m 1000% going to read it!
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