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Cinder Duet #1
Burned Cinder
The monster from under my bed is now the one in it.
First of all, this is not a fairytale. There’s no Prince Charming.
But there is a villain.
An insidiously gorgeous devil with eyes that pierce through all my secrets, and a cold black heart pumping pure venom and conquest.
But seven years after Noel Ransom scorched-earthed my life, I’ve come for my revenge.
Except Noel’s come for something, too: me.
Now, we’re locked in a marriage of sin.
‘Til death do us part. Or at least until one of us murders the other.
But the deeper I sink into this vicious game of hate and lust, the harder it may be to ever get out.
And the more entangled I become with Noel Ransom, the more the line between villain and lover becomes blurred forever.
Burned Cinder is book 1 of the two-part Cinder Duet. Empire of Ash should be read AFTER this book. The completed duet is a standalone story and includes a HEA.
This is a dark contemporary romance. Readers are advised to read the TW inside.
First of all, this is not a fairytale. There’s no Prince Charming.
But there is a villain.
An insidiously gorgeous devil with eyes that pierce through all my secrets, and a cold black heart pumping pure venom and conquest.
But seven years after Noel Ransom scorched-earthed my life, I’ve come for my revenge.
Except Noel’s come for something, too: me.
Now, we’re locked in a marriage of sin.
‘Til death do us part. Or at least until one of us murders the other.
But the deeper I sink into this vicious game of hate and lust, the harder it may be to ever get out.
And the more entangled I become with Noel Ransom, the more the line between villain and lover becomes blurred forever.
Burned Cinder is book 1 of the two-part Cinder Duet. Empire of Ash should be read AFTER this book. The completed duet is a standalone story and includes a HEA.
This is a dark contemporary romance. Readers are advised to read the TW inside.
426 pages, ebook
First published June 9, 2022
1084 people are currently reading
2069 people want to read
About the author
Jagger Cole
74 books5,379 followersA reader first and foremost, Jagger Cole cut his romance writing teeth penning various fan-fiction stories years ago. After deciding to hang up his writing boots, Jagger worked in advertising pretending to be Don Draper. It worked enough to convince a woman way out of his league to marry him, though, which is a total win.
Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.
When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside—rain or shine.
You can find all of his books at www.jaggercolewrites.com
Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter! -> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8rld1ik3sd
Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.
When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside—rain or shine.
You can find all of his books at www.jaggercolewrites.com
Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter! -> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8rld1ik3sd
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
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June 24, 2022Up to the point that I read, the story was very intriguing. A broken “cinderella” looking for avenging her almost stepfather who stole her family’s money.
When I found out that the hero was 42 y.o. and the heroine 21 y.o., that age gap was too much for me and dnf it at 10%.
When I found out that the hero was 42 y.o. and the heroine 21 y.o., that age gap was too much for me and dnf it at 10%.
dnf
July 5, 2022DNF 70%
Too many things bothered me.
🔴 I didn't mind the big age gap (21 years), my tolerance is way higher in books than IRL but I was not completely comfortable with the fact he knew and interacted with her when she was 12 and 14
H was supposed to be the h's stepfather before the death of h's mom but we learn it was just a business arrangement, and thank god H & h's mom didn't have any sexual/romantic relationship. It really would have made things too creepy.
I'm still not a fan that the "beef" between H and h started when she was a child.
🔴 heroine lost everything after the death of her parents: her status, her house & Inheritance, and she is convinced that H has something to do with her mom's death.
Due to this, she is set on revenge but constantly makes dumb choices/moves; she is also very childish and not very likable.
🔴 The chemistry between the MC is not so bad, but there are too many unnecessary and boring scenes in-between
Also, what's up with romance books and characters who constantly are rolling their eyes 🤡
Tropes :
🟪Age gap ( h is 21, H is 42)
🟪 Taboo relationship ( H was supposed to be h's stepfather)
🟪 Ennemies to lovers
🟪 "Dark" romance
🟪 Marriage of convenience / Forced Marriage
Safety/ Spoilers :
( at 70%)
🟦 No cheating or sharing
🟦 h is a virgin, H is not. He seems to be experimented but not a lot of details on his history.
🟦 Spanking
🟦 OM: No, a rival of H is interested in the h, and it makes the hero jealous but nothing happens.
🟦 OW: No. H was supposed to marry h's mother but it was a business arrangement. He was also married to another woman but she is dead and he was not in love with her.
🟦 HEA: I didn't finish it but since it's a duet, the HEA will probably happen at the end of book 2.
Too many things bothered me.
🔴 I didn't mind the big age gap (21 years), my tolerance is way higher in books than IRL but I was not completely comfortable with the fact he knew and interacted with her when she was 12 and 14
H was supposed to be the h's stepfather before the death of h's mom but we learn it was just a business arrangement, and thank god H & h's mom didn't have any sexual/romantic relationship. It really would have made things too creepy.
I'm still not a fan that the "beef" between H and h started when she was a child.
🔴 heroine lost everything after the death of her parents: her status, her house & Inheritance, and she is convinced that H has something to do with her mom's death.
Due to this, she is set on revenge but constantly makes dumb choices/moves; she is also very childish and not very likable.
🔴 The chemistry between the MC is not so bad, but there are too many unnecessary and boring scenes in-between
Also, what's up with romance books and characters who constantly are rolling their eyes 🤡
Tropes :
🟪Age gap ( h is 21, H is 42)
🟪 Taboo relationship ( H was supposed to be h's stepfather)
🟪 Ennemies to lovers
🟪 "Dark" romance
🟪 Marriage of convenience / Forced Marriage
Safety/ Spoilers :
( at 70%)
🟦 No cheating or sharing
🟦 h is a virgin, H is not. He seems to be experimented but not a lot of details on his history.
🟦 Spanking
🟦 OM: No, a rival of H is interested in the h, and it makes the hero jealous but nothing happens.
🟦 OW: No. H was supposed to marry h's mother but it was a business arrangement. He was also married to another woman but she is dead and he was not in love with her.
🟦 HEA: I didn't finish it but since it's a duet, the HEA will probably happen at the end of book 2.
June 20, 2022
I was annoyed with Ella most of the times.
I liked him tho
Hopefully the conclusion in the next book will make me like her more.
I liked him tho
Hopefully the conclusion in the next book will make me like her more.
June 13, 2022
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Because there’s one lesson Ella should have taken heed of seven years before, and clearly hasn’t yet mastered: When you aim to take out a king? Don’t fucking miss.”
Star Rating : 4.5/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : Yes
Hero : Noel
Heroine : Ella
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 6/10
Heat Rating : 7/10
Triggers Involved : Past Trauma , Betrayal , Age Gap
Plot Summary :
Ella had a peaceful life with loving parents and it all changed the moment her father died. A monster swooped into their life like the perfect protector he pretended to be and married her mother. Later he destroyed her mother as well and banished her away to a horrible place. So she ran away. Ran away from her home, her safe place because the monster was still waiting for her to come back. He still wanted to control her and eventually destroy her. But she can't handle it anymore. She hates seeing her home being a place for other people to live in. Her fathers place, his wealth being owned by the very man she hates. Her stepfather. Her monster. And she will make him pay for ruining her. Because this time she was back and she had a plan. Noel was going to lose everything he held dear and Ella will make sure of it.
Meeting his almost stepdaughter again was not on Noel's agenda. But here they were. What he didn't expect was the intensity with which she hated him. Ohh and the mess she had made. She had successfully robbed him of the one thing he held dear and now he will use her to get it all back. If Ella thought that he was done with her, she could not be more wrong. She hit him where it hurt but she missed. She did not destroy him. She left enough for him to catch her and now there was no out for her.
Overall Opinion :
Omg. I mean I knew that this book was going to be amazing but I did not expect that!! Noel and Ella are literally on fire. Every book by this author I read, I think that he cannot write a scene hotter than this and am again proved wrong in the next book!!
I am usually not that keen on reading age gaps but the taboo aspect in this book just made it impossible for me to stop reading. I kid you not, I read two book non stop and could not get up until it was all over 🤣🤣 this author is amazing enough to release 2 books of a duet on the same day to same us from the pain of cliffhangers and I could not love the author more because of this!
Definitely recommending this duet to all the dark romance Age gap lovers. It is taboo, has tons of steam, kink and a twist you won't see coming. It was the perfect romance for me and I hope it is for you all as well!
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September 5, 2022
DNF 82%
This was mainly annoying. Badly written on so many levels: cringy smut, f-bombs every other sentence, and straight dialogue. The mystery was even easily solvable. I stayed in it for awhile, because I liked the fact that Noel was supposed to be the evil step mom/father to Ella's Cinderella, but then the reader is continuously reminded that he's not, in fact Ella's "step-father", as he and her mom never got married. I feel like this book should be called "It's ok to f your friends orphaned daughter, who you are 20 years older than, if you're not her step father. Oh yeah, I didn't kill her mom either.". Although that may give away 90% of the plot. Skip this one if you want to save on brain cells.
This was mainly annoying. Badly written on so many levels: cringy smut, f-bombs every other sentence, and straight dialogue. The mystery was even easily solvable. I stayed in it for awhile, because I liked the fact that Noel was supposed to be the evil step mom/father to Ella's Cinderella, but then the reader is continuously reminded that he's not, in fact Ella's "step-father", as he and her mom never got married. I feel like this book should be called "It's ok to f your friends orphaned daughter, who you are 20 years older than, if you're not her step father. Oh yeah, I didn't kill her mom either.". Although that may give away 90% of the plot. Skip this one if you want to save on brain cells.
June 6, 2022
BURNED CINDER is the first instalment in Jagger Cole’s contemporary, adult KINGS AND VILLAINS dark, erotic, age-gap romance duet focusing on forty-two year old businessman Noel Ransom , and twenty-one year old Ella Ashford. The KINGS AND VILLAINS duet is set in the author’s SAVAGE HEIRS world.
WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Ella and Noel) following two time-lines BURNED CINDER follows the acrimonious relationship between forty-two year old businessman Noel Ransom , and twenty-one year old Ella Ashford. Approximately seven years earlier Ella’s life spiralled out of control following the death of her beloved father, the engagement and subsequent death of her mother, and the sentencing to reform school for our story line heroine. Upon her release Ella Ashford made plans to seek revenge against the man she blames for everything that went wrong, the man who was about to take charge of her life. Enter forty-two year old businessman Noel Ransom, the man who now controls every financial aspect of our heroine’s life. What ensues is the building but tempestuous relationship between Ella and Noel, and the fall-out as Ella becomes a pawn in a war between former friends, business partners, and anyone who has ever had dealings with the Kings and Villains of London’s Lord’s College.
Ella Ashford has lost everyone she has ever loved in her life and continues to struggle in the face of paying for a debt owed. Noel Ransom is a man who is seeking revenge for sins of the past, revenge that may or may not be directed at our story line heroine. Forcing Ella into a loveless marriage for business not pleasure, Ella’s life continues to spiral out of control, pulled in several directions by secrets and lies, and in the end, Ella’s choices push our heroine into the direct line of fire. Unable to trust the man whom she married, Ella finds herself at a crossroads, a crossroads from which Ella may not be able to return.
The relationship between Ella and Noel is an age-gap relationship fraught with many issues of trust and heart break; an enemies to reluctant lovers in which Ella is contractually forced to marry a man she does not love, and she can never trust. Naïve and easily manipulated, Ella struggles to believe the man with whom she will fall in love, a struggle that continues to pull Ella in a number of directions. Noel’s connections to Ella’s family run dangerous and deep, and it is these connections that are about to push our heroine into a spiral from which she may never return. The $ex scenes are aggressive and intense, and not without some issues of questionable consent.
We are introduced to Noel’s step-daughters Naomi and Cora, as well as Noel’s business rivals Oliver Prince and his son Jacob, Ella’s boss Harry, as well as Bastien Pierce and Julianna McCreed (Forbidden Crown/Savage Heirs), and Noel’s second Liam.
BURNED CINDER is a detailed and complex Cinderella-esque story of secrets and lies, betrayal and revenge, heart break and pain, obsession, power and control. The premise is gritty and dark; the romance is controlling and questionable; the characters are broken yet determined, vengeful and cruel. BURNED CINDER ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
www.thereadingcafe.com
WARNING: Due to the nature of the story line premise there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Ella and Noel) following two time-lines BURNED CINDER follows the acrimonious relationship between forty-two year old businessman Noel Ransom , and twenty-one year old Ella Ashford. Approximately seven years earlier Ella’s life spiralled out of control following the death of her beloved father, the engagement and subsequent death of her mother, and the sentencing to reform school for our story line heroine. Upon her release Ella Ashford made plans to seek revenge against the man she blames for everything that went wrong, the man who was about to take charge of her life. Enter forty-two year old businessman Noel Ransom, the man who now controls every financial aspect of our heroine’s life. What ensues is the building but tempestuous relationship between Ella and Noel, and the fall-out as Ella becomes a pawn in a war between former friends, business partners, and anyone who has ever had dealings with the Kings and Villains of London’s Lord’s College.
Ella Ashford has lost everyone she has ever loved in her life and continues to struggle in the face of paying for a debt owed. Noel Ransom is a man who is seeking revenge for sins of the past, revenge that may or may not be directed at our story line heroine. Forcing Ella into a loveless marriage for business not pleasure, Ella’s life continues to spiral out of control, pulled in several directions by secrets and lies, and in the end, Ella’s choices push our heroine into the direct line of fire. Unable to trust the man whom she married, Ella finds herself at a crossroads, a crossroads from which Ella may not be able to return.
The relationship between Ella and Noel is an age-gap relationship fraught with many issues of trust and heart break; an enemies to reluctant lovers in which Ella is contractually forced to marry a man she does not love, and she can never trust. Naïve and easily manipulated, Ella struggles to believe the man with whom she will fall in love, a struggle that continues to pull Ella in a number of directions. Noel’s connections to Ella’s family run dangerous and deep, and it is these connections that are about to push our heroine into a spiral from which she may never return. The $ex scenes are aggressive and intense, and not without some issues of questionable consent.
We are introduced to Noel’s step-daughters Naomi and Cora, as well as Noel’s business rivals Oliver Prince and his son Jacob, Ella’s boss Harry, as well as Bastien Pierce and Julianna McCreed (Forbidden Crown/Savage Heirs), and Noel’s second Liam.
BURNED CINDER is a detailed and complex Cinderella-esque story of secrets and lies, betrayal and revenge, heart break and pain, obsession, power and control. The premise is gritty and dark; the romance is controlling and questionable; the characters are broken yet determined, vengeful and cruel. BURNED CINDER ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
www.thereadingcafe.com
June 22, 2022
Alright so my emotions with this one are a bit on the rollercoaster. When the blurb came out I was like damn yes! But what solidified my intention to read this duet is when this morning I read the first chapter in the author's newsletter. Boy, was I hooked!
It started and I loved. But then it got so hard to read because of the typos, the bad reading flow and the excessive use of 'cringe', 'fk u' and every other sentence Written. Like. this!
I kid you not, you will not be able to flip a full page before coming across sentences written. Like. This. Not to mention the lowercase and uppercase mess. The unnecessary and uninvited italics.
Be that as it may,towards the end I fell deep in the story. Did not expect that to happen but the story progression is good. However the heroine is abysmally and infuriatingly stupid.
Hoping the next in the duet is decent too.
It started and I loved. But then it got so hard to read because of the typos, the bad reading flow and the excessive use of 'cringe', 'fk u' and every other sentence Written. Like. this!
I kid you not, you will not be able to flip a full page before coming across sentences written. Like. This. Not to mention the lowercase and uppercase mess. The unnecessary and uninvited italics.
Be that as it may,towards the end I fell deep in the story. Did not expect that to happen but the story progression is good. However the heroine is abysmally and infuriatingly stupid.
Hoping the next in the duet is decent too.
June 4, 2022
Burned Cinder Review
Holy freaking cliff hanger Batman! I was not expecting that at all!
Wow… well true to form, Jagger Cole had me hooked from the very beginning. It was simple, yet captivating from the first two words “fire burns”.
I loved how he was able to stay in the same world as all the Bratva books (and had appearances by some of my favorites!), while also giving it a twisted fairytale feel. I loved all the parallels / Easter eggs from the Cinderella story.
Can’t wait for the conclusion in Empire of Ash! This is an ARC review.
Holy freaking cliff hanger Batman! I was not expecting that at all!
Wow… well true to form, Jagger Cole had me hooked from the very beginning. It was simple, yet captivating from the first two words “fire burns”.
I loved how he was able to stay in the same world as all the Bratva books (and had appearances by some of my favorites!), while also giving it a twisted fairytale feel. I loved all the parallels / Easter eggs from the Cinderella story.
Can’t wait for the conclusion in Empire of Ash! This is an ARC review.
June 5, 2022
Wow! I love how this book ended! I am going right to book 2 😳🤩😬🙃
When I read the blurb of this book, I assumed it would be another Cinderella remake. It was not (in a good way)! From the beginning pages until the end, I had no idea what was happening next! I love Jagger Cole’s books! I have a feeling there will be a lot of these side characters that get their own books too, Harry and Liam especially! 😁
I received an advanced copy of this book and I highly recommend it! 📚📖
When I read the blurb of this book, I assumed it would be another Cinderella remake. It was not (in a good way)! From the beginning pages until the end, I had no idea what was happening next! I love Jagger Cole’s books! I have a feeling there will be a lot of these side characters that get their own books too, Harry and Liam especially! 😁
I received an advanced copy of this book and I highly recommend it! 📚📖
October 3, 2024
1/5
you cannot pay me enough to finish this series.
im all for age gap and taboo stories but what do you mean he knew her when she was like 12 then started liking her when she punched him when she was 21? yea the cops are on their way im dialing right now. there was like literally and i mean literally no reason to the plot for them to be introduced when she was a minor :)
you cannot pay me enough to finish this series.
im all for age gap and taboo stories but what do you mean he knew her when she was like 12 then started liking her when she punched him when she was 21? yea the cops are on their way im dialing right now. there was like literally and i mean literally no reason to the plot for them to be introduced when she was a minor :)
April 19, 2023
To say this pairing surprised me the fuck out of me is an understatement. WHAT??
But I like them, anyway.
I would recommend, like strongly recommend, you to read Dark Kingdom, just to get to know the Heroes - mind you that you’ll meet them as 21-ish college students but surely they grown as good
Anyway, I really like how the story is going, of course ends up in a HUGE cliffhanger but i can’t wait to read it.
Noel was such a daddy, I love him and he didn’t do anything wrong.
Ella is a dumb cunt. Idk why Noel bother with her I swearrrr
I’m praying Kristoff and daddy Olivier get worthy heroines because I cantttt
Safety!
OW/OM: heroine is a virgin. Hero has been married one time (she died) and almost got married to h’s mom (who also died)- He wasn’t in a physical relationship with her and won’t say no more because spoilers.
No condoms, birth control mentioned.
But I like them, anyway.
I would recommend, like strongly recommend, you to read Dark Kingdom, just to get to know the Heroes - mind you that you’ll meet them as 21-ish college students but surely they grown as good
Anyway, I really like how the story is going, of course ends up in a HUGE cliffhanger but i can’t wait to read it.
Noel was such a daddy, I love him and he didn’t do anything wrong.
Ella is a dumb cunt. Idk why Noel bother with her I swearrrr
I’m praying Kristoff and daddy Olivier get worthy heroines because I cantttt
Safety!
OW/OM: heroine is a virgin. Hero has been married one time (she died) and almost got married to h’s mom (who also died)- He wasn’t in a physical relationship with her and won’t say no more because spoilers.
No condoms, birth control mentioned.
June 10, 2022
Normally I like JC books, but the formatting in the Kindle version of this one annoyed me to no end.
Every.
Sentence.
Started.
On.
A.
New
Line.
And it was all double-spaced, even when it was part of a conversation, so half the time I couldn't tell who was speaking b/c the line breaks were all fubared. Also, several editing errors that made me wonder if someone proofread this. B/c of this, it was not a smooth read.
Content, as always, is typical JC - bullying anti-heroes and half-wimpy/half-strong anti-heroines who make me want to wring their neck half the time b/c they can never find inner strength and nerve when I most want them to. But alas, steamy sex, fairly witty dialog and drool-worthy covers will probably bring me back again and again.
Every.
Sentence.
Started.
On.
A.
New
Line.
And it was all double-spaced, even when it was part of a conversation, so half the time I couldn't tell who was speaking b/c the line breaks were all fubared. Also, several editing errors that made me wonder if someone proofread this. B/c of this, it was not a smooth read.
Content, as always, is typical JC - bullying anti-heroes and half-wimpy/half-strong anti-heroines who make me want to wring their neck half the time b/c they can never find inner strength and nerve when I most want them to. But alas, steamy sex, fairly witty dialog and drool-worthy covers will probably bring me back again and again.
September 10, 2022
read better JC books
This started out great, but I started noticing similarities between Konstantin in Broken God and Noel and the originality fell by the wayside. Also, I really disliked how Ella was always constantly cut off when speaking -
This may only be book one but I already have a sneaky suspicion as to who the villain really is which is rather surprising because this author is nothing short of amazing when writing these plot twists so perhaps I’m wrong and I’m hoping I am.
On a sidenote, I truly feel this author needs to invest in better editors or at least proof readers and it is very unfortunate because when reading this book on kindle the formatting is awful. But I’m still reading the next book and gobbling it up!
This started out great, but I started noticing similarities between Konstantin in Broken God and Noel and the originality fell by the wayside. Also, I really disliked how Ella was always constantly cut off when speaking -
This may only be book one but I already have a sneaky suspicion as to who the villain really is which is rather surprising because this author is nothing short of amazing when writing these plot twists so perhaps I’m wrong and I’m hoping I am.
On a sidenote, I truly feel this author needs to invest in better editors or at least proof readers and it is very unfortunate because when reading this book on kindle the formatting is awful. But I’m still reading the next book and gobbling it up!
June 30, 2022
Jagger Cole does it again in this amazing Age Gap duet that left me paranoid and wanting for more. Each time you think you've got the mystery figured out, you're wrong and back at square one. Cole creates a new vivid scene in his already established world and takes you on a spicy, sexy, mystery/thriller ride that will have you panting and ready for more.
June 10, 2022
No
Suckered again. I am not a fan of old men abusing and raping young girls. It is dark all right. Dark and a black hole should encase all dirty old men. Worked with abused young women in the past. Made half way and could not finish.
Suckered again. I am not a fan of old men abusing and raping young girls. It is dark all right. Dark and a black hole should encase all dirty old men. Worked with abused young women in the past. Made half way and could not finish.
March 3, 2024
Before you move ahead to read my rambling thoughts about this book, please know that there can be spoilers and if you haven't read the book, yet it is best recommended that you do that first before reading my review.
This is my first book by the author, and it was a good start. I think I'll be really looking forward to demolishing all their work.
The book features Ella Ashford, also known as Ella Grey, who's been kicked out from elite society, she was brought up in by her almost stepfather who was left in charge of her trust fund and all her money when her mother passed away. Right off the bat it is established that Ella hates her almost-stepfather Noel Ransom. She believes he has done some messed up shit to her family and he's the one who took away her trust fund and robbed her of her luxurious life.
Ella wants revenge so she's been secretly working with Noel’s enemies to take his company from him but through this whole ordeal she somehow manages to endanger her own trust fund which she will only get when she turns 23 so thanks to some company clause they both get married and they both keep on telling to each other that this is just a contractual marriage but Noel has been obsessed ever since he got to know that it was Ella who orchestrated the takeover of his company against him.
I found it hilarious how Ella always had to convince herself that he wasn't her stepfather, but he was just her ALMOST-STEPFATHER when she's about to bang him but All in all this was a good read. I liked Noel he's very daddy vibes and a very grouchy possessive sort of bastard and we all know I love that. Ella is a normal girl OK she wants revenge but she forgets all about revenge when she gets some dick in front of her so we can't blame her.
The ending was quite surprising I mean I was imagining a betrayal trope and something like that, but the tables have somehow turned and I know who is responsible obviously so it's going to be fun I'm going to jump to the next book and see what's going to happen.
This is my first book by the author, and it was a good start. I think I'll be really looking forward to demolishing all their work.
The book features Ella Ashford, also known as Ella Grey, who's been kicked out from elite society, she was brought up in by her almost stepfather who was left in charge of her trust fund and all her money when her mother passed away. Right off the bat it is established that Ella hates her almost-stepfather Noel Ransom. She believes he has done some messed up shit to her family and he's the one who took away her trust fund and robbed her of her luxurious life.
Ella wants revenge so she's been secretly working with Noel’s enemies to take his company from him but through this whole ordeal she somehow manages to endanger her own trust fund which she will only get when she turns 23 so thanks to some company clause they both get married and they both keep on telling to each other that this is just a contractual marriage but Noel has been obsessed ever since he got to know that it was Ella who orchestrated the takeover of his company against him.
I found it hilarious how Ella always had to convince herself that he wasn't her stepfather, but he was just her ALMOST-STEPFATHER when she's about to bang him but All in all this was a good read. I liked Noel he's very daddy vibes and a very grouchy possessive sort of bastard and we all know I love that. Ella is a normal girl OK she wants revenge but she forgets all about revenge when she gets some dick in front of her so we can't blame her.
The ending was quite surprising I mean I was imagining a betrayal trope and something like that, but the tables have somehow turned and I know who is responsible obviously so it's going to be fun I'm going to jump to the next book and see what's going to happen.
June 19, 2022
Jagger Cole is an insta buy for me and once again he delivers a 5 star read!!
Burned Cinder is part one of Ella Ashford and Noel Ransom's story.
Part one kicks off with their backstory... at the age of 14 Ella was introduced to Noel as her mother's fiancé. Noel stepped in shortly after Ella's father passed away. Not understanding all the dynamics in play Ella lashes out at her mother and Noel. Noel is gruff and unyielding, setting the stage for the power struggles that follow.
Before Ella's mother and Noel are wed, tragedy strikes and Ella's mother is murdered in a fire that almost takes her life as well. Coincidently Noel's first wife died due to similar circumstances. Ella believes Noel is the one responsible and stabs him. Noel then sends Ella to a reformatory school where her hate festers to plans of revenge.
7yrs later, now at the age of 21, she gets her chance. And what unfolds is a gritty, complex story of betrayal, rebellion, seduction and power.
I absolutely loved Ella! She is a strong and confrontational heroine. I got the feeling that she submitted to Noel by choice, as if on her own terms. Noel is grumpy, possessive and controlling. Yet he has a sweet and patient side for the heroine.
***********
6mon. marriage contract, enemies to lovers, erotic
21yr old virgin heroine & 43yr old hero
Discussion of birth control
No cheating, no ow/om drama - some jealousy for the heroine as hero is divorced
Dual POV
May be triggering for some, please check the warnings at the start of the novel
Burned Cinder is part one of Ella Ashford and Noel Ransom's story.
Part one kicks off with their backstory... at the age of 14 Ella was introduced to Noel as her mother's fiancé. Noel stepped in shortly after Ella's father passed away. Not understanding all the dynamics in play Ella lashes out at her mother and Noel. Noel is gruff and unyielding, setting the stage for the power struggles that follow.
Before Ella's mother and Noel are wed, tragedy strikes and Ella's mother is murdered in a fire that almost takes her life as well. Coincidently Noel's first wife died due to similar circumstances. Ella believes Noel is the one responsible and stabs him. Noel then sends Ella to a reformatory school where her hate festers to plans of revenge.
7yrs later, now at the age of 21, she gets her chance. And what unfolds is a gritty, complex story of betrayal, rebellion, seduction and power.
I absolutely loved Ella! She is a strong and confrontational heroine. I got the feeling that she submitted to Noel by choice, as if on her own terms. Noel is grumpy, possessive and controlling. Yet he has a sweet and patient side for the heroine.
***********
6mon. marriage contract, enemies to lovers, erotic
21yr old virgin heroine & 43yr old hero
Discussion of birth control
No cheating, no ow/om drama - some jealousy for the heroine as hero is divorced
Dual POV
May be triggering for some, please check the warnings at the start of the novel
June 8, 2022
My review for both books:
I am in utter awe at what I just read. Seriously. This duet consumed me like a raging fire and had my every free moment in it’s clutches. I read and I devoured…all while it devoured me. I couldn’t believe the twists that came barreling out every turn. Twists that were so unbelievably cruel.
Cole wrote a brilliant story that only he could write. No one else can write the raw, lustful feels that he gives. He absolutely makes you experience the story-live it-to the very end. And man, did I live it. Truly amazing.
Here I am rambling again like I do when I love a book. Probably making no sense. But guys, oh this duet…an absolute heart stopper!! Not only was it an experience to feel but the romance!! Oh my, the romance!! It was everything wonderful and sexy and downright delectable. The age gap was more than what I could ask for. But brilliantly done just like any other age gap he has written. Just like anything he writes. Completely and wholly brilliant.
This duet gets all the stars!!
I am in utter awe at what I just read. Seriously. This duet consumed me like a raging fire and had my every free moment in it’s clutches. I read and I devoured…all while it devoured me. I couldn’t believe the twists that came barreling out every turn. Twists that were so unbelievably cruel.
Cole wrote a brilliant story that only he could write. No one else can write the raw, lustful feels that he gives. He absolutely makes you experience the story-live it-to the very end. And man, did I live it. Truly amazing.
Here I am rambling again like I do when I love a book. Probably making no sense. But guys, oh this duet…an absolute heart stopper!! Not only was it an experience to feel but the romance!! Oh my, the romance!! It was everything wonderful and sexy and downright delectable. The age gap was more than what I could ask for. But brilliantly done just like any other age gap he has written. Just like anything he writes. Completely and wholly brilliant.
This duet gets all the stars!!
June 9, 2022
So we have Ella who works at The Glass Slipper, Jason Prince, a royal “ball”, the wicked almost stepfather Noel and his two stepdaughters to round out this enemies (so far), age gap, dark and twisted rendition of Cinderella - BURNED CINDERS.
Jagger Cole had so much story to tell, he gave us a duet. Then he made us really happy by releasing both books in this Kings and Villains series on the same day.
Part one of the duet had everything I love plus the laying the foundation of the backstory. There is much to be revealed. But the best part is Jagger Cole is an excellent writer. The plot is well crafted, but the characters are so memorable just the mention of the characters name from a previous series brings back everything I loved about that character.
I loved book 1 of this duet and am so looking forward to book 2 EMPIRE OF ASH.
I am submitting this voluntary review after reading an advanced copy of the book from the author.
Jagger Cole had so much story to tell, he gave us a duet. Then he made us really happy by releasing both books in this Kings and Villains series on the same day.
Part one of the duet had everything I love plus the laying the foundation of the backstory. There is much to be revealed. But the best part is Jagger Cole is an excellent writer. The plot is well crafted, but the characters are so memorable just the mention of the characters name from a previous series brings back everything I loved about that character.
I loved book 1 of this duet and am so looking forward to book 2 EMPIRE OF ASH.
I am submitting this voluntary review after reading an advanced copy of the book from the author.
August 13, 2023
Jesus this heroine is so fucking stupid. Going out of her way to make stupid decisions 😑 serves her right in the end lol
⚠️ SAFETY DETAILS: ⚠️
Cheating:no
Sharing:no
OM drama: a rival of H is interested in heroine and this causes some jealousy
OW drama: no real ow drama, but H was married before and have stepdaughters from that marriage. He didn't love her. And he almost got married to h's mother too but she died. He didn't love her either.
Sex scene with OM or OW:none
Virgin/manwhore: h - virgin and H - not a manwhore
Separation: after the book started, no.
Celibate during separation: --
Condoms:not used
HEA:cliffhanger
SAFE?:for me, yes.
⚠️ SAFETY DETAILS: ⚠️
Cheating:no
Sharing:no
OM drama: a rival of H is interested in heroine and this causes some jealousy
OW drama: no real ow drama, but H was married before and have stepdaughters from that marriage. He didn't love her. And he almost got married to h's mother too but she died. He didn't love her either.
Sex scene with OM or OW:none
Virgin/manwhore: h - virgin and H - not a manwhore
Separation: after the book started, no.
Celibate during separation: --
Condoms:not used
HEA:cliffhanger
SAFE?:for me, yes.
January 30, 2024
Ella cannot catch a break. Granted she gets herself into a lot of trouble by trying to fight back, but dang life is just not treating this girl well. Her mother was murdered and she is out for revenge, but who should be the target of that revenge? He's the powerful mobster who was with her mother when she died, but did he kill her and why is he so attached to Ella? This story is fast paced, action packed, hot and steamy while also being a bit of a psychological mind twist. It does end in a cliff hanger so make sure you have the next book cued up so you don't lose your pace mid-read!
November 5, 2024
♾️5 Little One stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
4🌶
..and so,so many "What the F...?!?!?!?"
"I want you a mess for me,little one"...
Ok...this was..unexpected, at least, in the best way!
Ella,my dear, you made so many wrong decisions..I was a little angry with you, even if your man😁 is no Prince Charming or a Knight on a White horse, so this "feelings" about you are ok after i finished first book in this duet, you complete each other so perfect!
4🌶
..and so,so many "What the F...?!?!?!?"
"I want you a mess for me,little one"...
Ok...this was..unexpected, at least, in the best way!
Ella,my dear, you made so many wrong decisions..I was a little angry with you, even if your man😁 is no Prince Charming or a Knight on a White horse, so this "feelings" about you are ok after i finished first book in this duet, you complete each other so perfect!
June 5, 2022
What a cliff hanger!!!
I told myself I’d stop reading when I finished book 1 of this duet, but there is no way I can stop reading now. I barely stopped reading to even write this review. This story is captivating from the first few pages!
Ella is seeking revenge.
Noel is her target.
He’ll use her.
I told myself I’d stop reading when I finished book 1 of this duet, but there is no way I can stop reading now. I barely stopped reading to even write this review. This story is captivating from the first few pages!
Ella is seeking revenge.
Noel is her target.
He’ll use her.
October 3, 2023
stopped reading the book 10% in. I dont mind most age gaps but this one just made me all around uncomfortable. hes 20 years older than her and was interacting with the heroine when she was only 12 years old. Then he starts a rivalry with a literal 12 year old being a complete asshole after this child lost her father. the book had so much potentional but the age gap and the interactions made me uncomfortable. honestly dissapointed bc i LOVE this reader and have already read 3 of his series and just started this one. the first book was good this was a let down and i wont be finishing ut
June 8, 2022
What an amazing installment in this two part duet of Kings & Villains. Noel and Ella’s story had my full attention from beginning to end. I didn’t want it to end! I loved everything about this book…the dark, the twists, the suspense, the mystery, and the spice is amazing! The cliffhanger ending left me wanting more and I can’t wait for the 2nd book of this duet.
May 7, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
July 29, 2023
3.5! Another large age gap but Ella was honestly a little annoying. Emotional rollercoaster and holy lord are you hooked chapter one. Maybe the next book I’ll like Ella more? Here we go!
February 11, 2025
3.25⭐️
February 20, 2025
Sexy AF 🌷
June 12, 2022
Great story but the grammar ruined a lot for me.
This story was good, so good I immediately read the second and both only took me 3 days. The plot was the perfect pace, and it ended with a lot of questions which were answered throughout book 2. I love duets because they are the perfect length, especially when focusing on 2 MCs. The issue I had was with the grammar, both books are full of elementary errors and it drove me absolutely nuts. Usually I catch one or two in books, but this one was full of them as if no one proof read when editing??? I don't know but it took it down a star because some of the mistakes made the read a bit confusing at times. Overall though, I recommend. The spice is just perfect, the slow burn was great.
This story was good, so good I immediately read the second and both only took me 3 days. The plot was the perfect pace, and it ended with a lot of questions which were answered throughout book 2. I love duets because they are the perfect length, especially when focusing on 2 MCs. The issue I had was with the grammar, both books are full of elementary errors and it drove me absolutely nuts. Usually I catch one or two in books, but this one was full of them as if no one proof read when editing??? I don't know but it took it down a star because some of the mistakes made the read a bit confusing at times. Overall though, I recommend. The spice is just perfect, the slow burn was great.
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