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The Desecration of Innocence #5
Black Hearts
I’ve fallen in love with my monsters, and only they can save me now.
Daddy kept me locked away my entire life. He molded me, shaped me into what he wanted me to be: a naive, innocent slave to his will. His word was supposed to be law.
And then I met Markus, and everything changed.
I’ve grown to love my monsters. I need them. They complete me in ways I never could’ve imagined, made me feel alive and showed me just how much of a liar Daddy is.
As it turns out, the worst monster of them all is the one I was raised by, and if he can’t have me, no one can. But I’m not the same girl I was in the beginning. I want to fight back.
The innocent girl I used to be is dead. The darkness made sure of it.
*Black Hearts is the final book in the Desecration of Innocence series, a Why Choose/RH romance that skews on the darker side.*
Daddy kept me locked away my entire life. He molded me, shaped me into what he wanted me to be: a naive, innocent slave to his will. His word was supposed to be law.
And then I met Markus, and everything changed.
I’ve grown to love my monsters. I need them. They complete me in ways I never could’ve imagined, made me feel alive and showed me just how much of a liar Daddy is.
As it turns out, the worst monster of them all is the one I was raised by, and if he can’t have me, no one can. But I’m not the same girl I was in the beginning. I want to fight back.
The innocent girl I used to be is dead. The darkness made sure of it.
*Black Hearts is the final book in the Desecration of Innocence series, a Why Choose/RH romance that skews on the darker side.*
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2022
187 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Candace Wondrak
116 books1,845 followersHey guys! I'm a writer, an office worker, a wife, a mother to two dogs and two cats, and half of a strange pair of young adults who flip the houses they're living in with the goal of having no mortgage (so that I can eventually focus on my writing career!). Needless to say, I'm busy.
Still, I somehow find time to write, to read, and to enjoy life. Wish there were more hours in the day, really!
If you're active on Goodreads and have similar interests, friend me. I don't bite. Or if you'd rather follow my reviews, you can do that, too.
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Still, I somehow find time to write, to read, and to enjoy life. Wish there were more hours in the day, really!
If you're active on Goodreads and have similar interests, friend me. I don't bite. Or if you'd rather follow my reviews, you can do that, too.
Happy reading!
Link to newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dppf_v
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 24, 2023
rtc left me wanting more
August 25, 2022
okay
Umm so it’s hard because I’m glad with the ending but I had many moments that left me confused and annoyed. The plot was super interesting, some characters likable but let’s be honest a lot happened that I was just not okay. Let’s start with our MC, I wanted her to grow and put an armor and demand respect but I don’t think we ever got that. She kinda just forgave everyone and moved on as if nothing happened. So I was very disappointed in that aspect additionally to her obsession with Markus. The books always felt unbalanced because the MC was so into Markus that it took away from the other guys. Jaxon was lost in this story, we barely got anything from him, Will was back which I was glad after everything, Theo I was never super interested in his character for some reason but I didn’t mind him. Then Markus ughhh I couldn’t move passed it and everything he did was completely awful. For the first time I would have been okay with eliminating someone from the RH. Weirdly enough my favorite was Bennet. He was such a complex and intriguing character & the only reason why I continued with the story.
All in all it had its moments and some parts I enjoyed and I’m glad I finished the series.
Umm so it’s hard because I’m glad with the ending but I had many moments that left me confused and annoyed. The plot was super interesting, some characters likable but let’s be honest a lot happened that I was just not okay. Let’s start with our MC, I wanted her to grow and put an armor and demand respect but I don’t think we ever got that. She kinda just forgave everyone and moved on as if nothing happened. So I was very disappointed in that aspect additionally to her obsession with Markus. The books always felt unbalanced because the MC was so into Markus that it took away from the other guys. Jaxon was lost in this story, we barely got anything from him, Will was back which I was glad after everything, Theo I was never super interested in his character for some reason but I didn’t mind him. Then Markus ughhh I couldn’t move passed it and everything he did was completely awful. For the first time I would have been okay with eliminating someone from the RH. Weirdly enough my favorite was Bennet. He was such a complex and intriguing character & the only reason why I continued with the story.
All in all it had its moments and some parts I enjoyed and I’m glad I finished the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2022
While I’m glad I kept on with the series, kinda feels like it ends in a bust rather than a bang. The series contains so much buildup that I truly expected some type of explosive ending. Sadly everything just fell into place minus any drama or even a riveting climax. Markus works his way back into Juliet’s harem, with little to no groveling which is disappointing given his actions in the previous book. For me, he took it too far and he never earned back any trust. Then with his father thrown into the mix, another situation that resolves itself too easily, Markus temporarily loses his place as the head of the family. I guess I’m just not happy as it’s not the ending I’d have preferred but I will say I’m glad I kept reading till the end. There is a HEA at the end of the tunnel for them all. My limits were certainly tested and I’ve still not forgiven Markus but overall it was a decent series. Why everyone is so obsessed with Juliet and her to them (vice versa) I still do not understand but it was one of many issues I sorta let slip under the rug. Series has triggers galore but is complete for any wanting to test their reading limits.
August 6, 2022
Black Hearts
While I really enjoyed reading this final book, I found myself zoning out at times and skimming the smutty parts because I needed that ending very badly. Granted, I tend to become a teensy bit impatient when I get close to the big finale of a great series, but since there were multiple occasions where I found myself getting lost in the inner monologues of the characters, it pointed out to me that this series could've benefitted from trimming down some repetitive moments to keep me invested as a reader.
Regardless of that, I found there were a lot of great moments in this book.
Revisiting some old characters from previous series, Ollie being one of them. I've been having an unhealthy obsession with him since I met him in Sins, so every piece I get is a win in my books! Plus the introduction of some new intriguing characters.
I have loved everything in this world so far and I can not wait to see what else Wondrak has up her sleeve for other series in this psycho world of hers.
While I really enjoyed reading this final book, I found myself zoning out at times and skimming the smutty parts because I needed that ending very badly. Granted, I tend to become a teensy bit impatient when I get close to the big finale of a great series, but since there were multiple occasions where I found myself getting lost in the inner monologues of the characters, it pointed out to me that this series could've benefitted from trimming down some repetitive moments to keep me invested as a reader.
Regardless of that, I found there were a lot of great moments in this book.
Revisiting some old characters from previous series, Ollie being one of them. I've been having an unhealthy obsession with him since I met him in Sins, so every piece I get is a win in my books! Plus the introduction of some new intriguing characters.
I have loved everything in this world so far and I can not wait to see what else Wondrak has up her sleeve for other series in this psycho world of hers.
August 2, 2022
I cannot put into words how much I loved this book. Honestly. When I anticipated this book, I wasn't sure how things would go, but this blew my own imagination out of the water! The character growth was incredible this last book, for everyone truly!
There were tender and beautiful moments... moments where I wanted to chuck my phone and scream, and moments where I couldn't help but laugh (especially with Will). This left me feeling so warm and fuzzy and satisfied with Juliet and everyone's story.
I loved seeing some other characters from this shared universe, and the ending really sets the scene for Lola's next trilogy. I cannot wait to see what psychos Candace brings us next!!
Also, best epilogue ever.
There were tender and beautiful moments... moments where I wanted to chuck my phone and scream, and moments where I couldn't help but laugh (especially with Will). This left me feeling so warm and fuzzy and satisfied with Juliet and everyone's story.
I loved seeing some other characters from this shared universe, and the ending really sets the scene for Lola's next trilogy. I cannot wait to see what psychos Candace brings us next!!
Also, best epilogue ever.
August 4, 2022
A really good ending
When I started the series I couldn’t see how these 6 people could naturally grow into an organism and I am so happy the author didn’t push but actually let things flow naturally. A really good series and I am looking forward to the next chapter in this crazy world.
When I started the series I couldn’t see how these 6 people could naturally grow into an organism and I am so happy the author didn’t push but actually let things flow naturally. A really good series and I am looking forward to the next chapter in this crazy world.
August 4, 2022
And that’s The End…
Damn 5 books in and the story is done. It’s been a crazy ride with Juliet and her boys. Markus must reclaim his home and the charcAters find the balance in their relationship. While I grew to like Jaxon, Theo, Bennet (I don’t count Markus and Will since I already love them!) 5 is still a big harem number for me. Markus sharing was always a stretch but sharing that much I just couldn’t accept. The story does wrap up nicely opening the lead into the next series in this universe with Lola and her guys.
⚠️ Spoilers Ahead
I loved how a situation was created to get all the Scott’s together and see them rally around Markus. Tori owned every scene she was in. Her trying to kill Jonathan was hilarious. I truly hope a next gen series is in the works.
Damn 5 books in and the story is done. It’s been a crazy ride with Juliet and her boys. Markus must reclaim his home and the charcAters find the balance in their relationship. While I grew to like Jaxon, Theo, Bennet (I don’t count Markus and Will since I already love them!) 5 is still a big harem number for me. Markus sharing was always a stretch but sharing that much I just couldn’t accept. The story does wrap up nicely opening the lead into the next series in this universe with Lola and her guys.
⚠️ Spoilers Ahead
I loved how a situation was created to get all the Scott’s together and see them rally around Markus. Tori owned every scene she was in. Her trying to kill Jonathan was hilarious. I truly hope a next gen series is in the works.
7-tbr-ooit
May 26, 2022
August 1, 2022
Loved this book,so happy that it ended this way. It has been great watching the characters change throughout the series. Marcus has changed the most from the guy who kidnapped Juliet after lusting after her for years and ruling his family with an iron fist to a softer man who cares about her happiness and is prepared to share with the other guys to achieve this. All of the guys are damaged in some way after living and working in the Scott household and I enjoyed the way that Juliet helped them all to be better men despite being killers. Juliet makes them into a real family with her naive innocence being such a breath of fresh air for them all.
Love all of the guys but think my favourite is Theo as he is so sweet and caring, not sure he ever felt he really belonged in the Scott household before Juliet.
It was a satisfying end to the series with “Daddy” getting what he richly deserved I the end. To summarise another fantastic book from Candace.
Love all of the guys but think my favourite is Theo as he is so sweet and caring, not sure he ever felt he really belonged in the Scott household before Juliet.
It was a satisfying end to the series with “Daddy” getting what he richly deserved I the end. To summarise another fantastic book from Candace.
August 1, 2022
Twisted in some great ways
Black Hearts is closing up Juliet’s story. Her journey with her Scott men hasn’t been easy, hasn’t been traditional, but it’s been full of everything she was missing in life. Fred, Juliet’s father is even more sick & twisted than most of the Scott’s and he’s truly insane. Markus has an uphill battle to get his dad out of the house, to gain control of the business, try to determine his priorities, and try to ensure that he can make up with Juliet. Jaxon, Will, Bennett, and Theo have all more than proven their love for Juliet at this point, but will it be enough to save her from her father & theirs? I have to say, I’m thrilled with the way things turned out even if I’d have loved a bit more epilogue, but that’s just me being greedy!
I’m super excited about all the prospective new stories from characters met this book and can’t wait to learn who will have stories!
Black Hearts is closing up Juliet’s story. Her journey with her Scott men hasn’t been easy, hasn’t been traditional, but it’s been full of everything she was missing in life. Fred, Juliet’s father is even more sick & twisted than most of the Scott’s and he’s truly insane. Markus has an uphill battle to get his dad out of the house, to gain control of the business, try to determine his priorities, and try to ensure that he can make up with Juliet. Jaxon, Will, Bennett, and Theo have all more than proven their love for Juliet at this point, but will it be enough to save her from her father & theirs? I have to say, I’m thrilled with the way things turned out even if I’d have loved a bit more epilogue, but that’s just me being greedy!
I’m super excited about all the prospective new stories from characters met this book and can’t wait to learn who will have stories!
August 6, 2022
I flucken loved this series and this book the most!! I do want to mention that this series/book is a bit dark. This is book five in the series, so you should have read the past four. If you have, then you know what you are getting into. 🖤
Black Hearts was fudgen epic and amaze flucken balls!! 🖤 I laughed so much with this book and fell in love with all the men. Will is flucken crazy af and just hilarious. There are so many parts in this book that this man really had me rolling. From beginning to end, I was completely engrossed. Nothing could stop me from putting this book down. When I say I fell in love with all the men, I literally mean Markus, Will, Theo, Jaxon and Bennet have stolen my being and have a part of my black heart. 😈 Another little hellion that I freaken love was Tori! That little girl really does have a mouth on her. She really made this book even better, especially towards the end. I hope we get a book about her. I really can not express how much this book made my day. I can't wait to get this series in hardback! The spice though!!! 😈 🤤 🤤 🤤 Markus really surprised me at the end. So did Theo. I was not prepared for that. But it was freaken epic! 💦💦 😈 I really enjoyed this whole series, especially this book. I hope you enjoy it just as much. 🖤
Happy Reading! 😈
🖤Christian O.🖤
STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE 💦💦💦💦💦
Black Hearts was fudgen epic and amaze flucken balls!! 🖤 I laughed so much with this book and fell in love with all the men. Will is flucken crazy af and just hilarious. There are so many parts in this book that this man really had me rolling. From beginning to end, I was completely engrossed. Nothing could stop me from putting this book down. When I say I fell in love with all the men, I literally mean Markus, Will, Theo, Jaxon and Bennet have stolen my being and have a part of my black heart. 😈 Another little hellion that I freaken love was Tori! That little girl really does have a mouth on her. She really made this book even better, especially towards the end. I hope we get a book about her. I really can not express how much this book made my day. I can't wait to get this series in hardback! The spice though!!! 😈 🤤 🤤 🤤 Markus really surprised me at the end. So did Theo. I was not prepared for that. But it was freaken epic! 💦💦 😈 I really enjoyed this whole series, especially this book. I hope you enjoy it just as much. 🖤
Happy Reading! 😈
🖤Christian O.🖤
STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE 💦💦💦💦💦
February 21, 2023
It's over!!
I really hate it when Candice's series ends. This was a bit long but the book tied everything up nicely together. It's sure got twists and turns, and a whole lot of nail biting scenarios, right til the end because it connects with another series. Juliet comes into her own but still remains true to herself. Actually, she learns that she really does belong with her men and the rest of the Scotts. She's no longer this lost little girl that had a annoying innocence about her. She turned this around because of the awful things that happened to her and finds happiness instead of bitterness. Eventually, I think even her and Stella will have a understanding... The ending is actually very funny! It's got a great ending and she gets her sweet revenge! So well written but that goes without saying and the sex! What!! Hotter than hell and I really love Bennett! I'm sad to see this end but I will re-read it for sure!
I really hate it when Candice's series ends. This was a bit long but the book tied everything up nicely together. It's sure got twists and turns, and a whole lot of nail biting scenarios, right til the end because it connects with another series. Juliet comes into her own but still remains true to herself. Actually, she learns that she really does belong with her men and the rest of the Scotts. She's no longer this lost little girl that had a annoying innocence about her. She turned this around because of the awful things that happened to her and finds happiness instead of bitterness. Eventually, I think even her and Stella will have a understanding... The ending is actually very funny! It's got a great ending and she gets her sweet revenge! So well written but that goes without saying and the sex! What!! Hotter than hell and I really love Bennett! I'm sad to see this end but I will re-read it for sure!
May 30, 2023
I have to say after reading this series I am very happy I stuck with it. Book 1 left me with mixed feelings, and I honestly didn’t know if I wanted to continue after 2 and 3, I just wasn’t feeling it and wasn’t connecting with the characters. But I did, and book 4 was so much better, and book 5 was good too. Juliet grew so much, Markus did redeem himself (sort of), and Bennet really surprised me the most. I loved how Theo, Will, and Jaxson stayed the same, they were always caring and protective over Juliet, and never wanted to hurt her. Those 3 were perfect. Will had me laughing so much throughout this series and was exactly what it needed. I was a little disappointed about how easily Markus’s father just gave up, I thought that part could’ve been more suspenseful and have more action.
But overall I’m happy I finished this series. I ended up loving all the characters- even Markus.
But overall I’m happy I finished this series. I ended up loving all the characters- even Markus.
September 18, 2025
My favorite to least favorite characters:
Bennet - Oh my goodness, I could talk about him forever! Even when he wasn’t present, I was still thinking about him. I genuinely wish we could have had more of him.
Will - I’m sorry, but I love an unhinged puppy. This man is absolutely everything, and he’s hilarious too. Seriously, marry me!
Jaxon - Putting him in this place is actually fitting because I steadily liked him. I never felt bad about him in any way
Theo - Honestly, his placement was iffy because I just don’t get it with him. If that makes sense.
Markus - He’s actual proof that you can hate a character and still love them.
Side note - I really hope rave gets a story. I want to see more of him!
Bennet - Oh my goodness, I could talk about him forever! Even when he wasn’t present, I was still thinking about him. I genuinely wish we could have had more of him.
Will - I’m sorry, but I love an unhinged puppy. This man is absolutely everything, and he’s hilarious too. Seriously, marry me!
Jaxon - Putting him in this place is actually fitting because I steadily liked him. I never felt bad about him in any way
Theo - Honestly, his placement was iffy because I just don’t get it with him. If that makes sense.
Markus - He’s actual proof that you can hate a character and still love them.
Side note - I really hope rave gets a story. I want to see more of him!
August 4, 2022
Awesome last book
I honestly don't know what to say. It took me a little longer to read than usual, with it being the final book of the series I didn't really want it to end! I love this world so I'm glad there's going to be other books in the future with others mentioned in the book.
There were so many little LOL moments, which is great considering the book is filled of dark serial killers!
Everyone grew as a person in this book. Karma was dished out (eventually). Then there was a HEA! Thank f**k for that 😂
Like i said before, I'm gutted this series is over but I'm glad there's still parts of this book universe left to see! Long live the Scott's!
I honestly don't know what to say. It took me a little longer to read than usual, with it being the final book of the series I didn't really want it to end! I love this world so I'm glad there's going to be other books in the future with others mentioned in the book.
There were so many little LOL moments, which is great considering the book is filled of dark serial killers!
Everyone grew as a person in this book. Karma was dished out (eventually). Then there was a HEA! Thank f**k for that 😂
Like i said before, I'm gutted this series is over but I'm glad there's still parts of this book universe left to see! Long live the Scott's!
August 13, 2022
What an ending!
Omg I am so obsessed with this world and these characters! I am such a huge fan of the Scotts’ world and everyone in it. I feel like I can’t even write a proper review to do this series justice.
This ending was absolutely perfect. The epilogue from Markus had me cracking up (which is a sentence I never thought I would type)!
Even the spice in this last book was off the charts. A lot of times in a longer series I find myself getting bored with the $exy scenes but not this one!
I’m so sad to see this series end but I can’t wait to see what’s coming next!
Omg I am so obsessed with this world and these characters! I am such a huge fan of the Scotts’ world and everyone in it. I feel like I can’t even write a proper review to do this series justice.
This ending was absolutely perfect. The epilogue from Markus had me cracking up (which is a sentence I never thought I would type)!
Even the spice in this last book was off the charts. A lot of times in a longer series I find myself getting bored with the $exy scenes but not this one!
I’m so sad to see this series end but I can’t wait to see what’s coming next!
October 21, 2022
Brilliant read. I have loved this series.
Juliet has been sent away back to her father, Markus has let her go while he deals with his own. Johnathan is back and he is heading the family of scotts, but times have changed and Johnathan is not the leader he once was. Markus is the head of the household and he needs to step up and take back the control he once had. Juliet is kept in the middle and needs to know who she is going to be with the decisions she makes.
brilliant read.
Juliet has been sent away back to her father, Markus has let her go while he deals with his own. Johnathan is back and he is heading the family of scotts, but times have changed and Johnathan is not the leader he once was. Markus is the head of the household and he needs to step up and take back the control he once had. Juliet is kept in the middle and needs to know who she is going to be with the decisions she makes.
brilliant read.
August 14, 2022
1 of the best!!
As always the MidPark novels don't disappoint! I love continuing on to see the different brand of crazy fall n love and for the characters to develop and learn! Evolve to their best selves! Ms. Wondrak again knocks 1 outta the park! Now I've read all to date I'll be patiently awaiting more!!
As always the MidPark novels don't disappoint! I love continuing on to see the different brand of crazy fall n love and for the characters to develop and learn! Evolve to their best selves! Ms. Wondrak again knocks 1 outta the park! Now I've read all to date I'll be patiently awaiting more!!
August 29, 2022
What a conclusion, I kinda didn't want to finish it because I've loved this series so much! The characters were absolutely amazing and so well written! This whole psyco world has been such an awesome ride! I glad there will be more! I also hope to see Tori in the future, she was an amazing character x
March 16, 2023
Fab conclusion
Markus' father has returned and nobody is happy about it. The first thing he does is order Juliet back to her serial killing father. He doesn't cares what happens to her as he thinks she has made Markus soft and unable to run the family business. As soon as the others find out, they are in a mission to save her. Hot read.
Markus' father has returned and nobody is happy about it. The first thing he does is order Juliet back to her serial killing father. He doesn't cares what happens to her as he thinks she has made Markus soft and unable to run the family business. As soon as the others find out, they are in a mission to save her. Hot read.
August 6, 2022
Amazing finish to a brilliant series!
As with everything Candace writes, I loved the series and this book from start to finish. I'm sad this particular story has come to end up but I love all the hints of what's to come in the future for the world Candace has built. 🖤🖤
As with everything Candace writes, I loved the series and this book from start to finish. I'm sad this particular story has come to end up but I love all the hints of what's to come in the future for the world Candace has built. 🖤🖤
August 11, 2022
Need More Epilogue
I really enjoyed this series, but it could have been a better epilogue. I would have like if all of Juliet's men had a child and to see the interaction with their child would have been the icing on the cake. Overall I highly recommend this series.🙂
I really enjoyed this series, but it could have been a better epilogue. I would have like if all of Juliet's men had a child and to see the interaction with their child would have been the icing on the cake. Overall I highly recommend this series.🙂
March 2, 2023
amazing work
I love these books she does a great job mixing dark and light together. The sex scenes are another great way she shows that each man is different but still loves her in their own way.
I love these books she does a great job mixing dark and light together. The sex scenes are another great way she shows that each man is different but still loves her in their own way.
July 4, 2023
Giving the book 4 stars because I liked the series but...
I really feel like this Saga could have been wrapped up in three books instead of five. I liked the story and the characters for the most part, but I felt there was too much internal dialog.
I really feel like this Saga could have been wrapped up in three books instead of five. I liked the story and the characters for the most part, but I felt there was too much internal dialog.
January 27, 2024
end of an era
The epic series is over 🥺 such a rollercoaster of emotions and unexpected humour. Top tier relationship building and storytelling. Oh to read this again for the first time
The epic series is over 🥺 such a rollercoaster of emotions and unexpected humour. Top tier relationship building and storytelling. Oh to read this again for the first time
August 12, 2025
Great finale
Absolutely loved Black Hearts by Candace Wondrak. A perfect ending to a great series. I loved Juliet and her men and am excited to read more of the books in this universe
Absolutely loved Black Hearts by Candace Wondrak. A perfect ending to a great series. I loved Juliet and her men and am excited to read more of the books in this universe
August 7, 2022
loved
Another incredible series by this author. I couldn’t be happier with how things ended out for the group and also the Easter eggs for what is coming next in this world!
Another incredible series by this author. I couldn’t be happier with how things ended out for the group and also the Easter eggs for what is coming next in this world!
July 13, 2023
Holy crap Batman.
I really like this series, its dark and dangerous and the characters should be unlikable but they aren't, I have read a lot of this author and I will read more.
I really like this series, its dark and dangerous and the characters should be unlikable but they aren't, I have read a lot of this author and I will read more.
October 9, 2023
great ending…
Or should I say beginning… so glad I found book 1 on stuff your kindle day. Read the whole series and plan on reading more, but for now back to my SYKD reads
Or should I say beginning… so glad I found book 1 on stuff your kindle day. Read the whole series and plan on reading more, but for now back to my SYKD reads
November 19, 2023
Terrible waste of time… should not have been an RH did not need 5 books to get a crappy ending!!!!
✍️
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