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The club is her life.
For Raven, the Hell's Bastards MC is her world. From the moment she meets Smokey, she's able to build a life for herself. Being the only female member in an all-male club, she's earned her patch and proved she has their backs.
Now her place is in danger. Smokey is cleaning shop because of Ava. Raven watched each of the club whores leave—she's next.
Carlos Santiago wants Raven and will do anything to get her. When his life is put in danger, he sees an opportunity. It's Raven's job to protect him, so for the interest of the club, she'll have to do whatever it takes to protect him.
Carlos will make Raven fall for him. He'll make her forget the club, forget it all. The only problem is Raven isn't all she seems. She has a past, one none of them ever anticipated.
When the truth comes out, it will be up to Carlos and Smokey to bring her back, to stop her from falling. Will they be able to save her, or will the demons of her...
For Raven, the Hell's Bastards MC is her world. From the moment she meets Smokey, she's able to build a life for herself. Being the only female member in an all-male club, she's earned her patch and proved she has their backs.
Now her place is in danger. Smokey is cleaning shop because of Ava. Raven watched each of the club whores leave—she's next.
Carlos Santiago wants Raven and will do anything to get her. When his life is put in danger, he sees an opportunity. It's Raven's job to protect him, so for the interest of the club, she'll have to do whatever it takes to protect him.
Carlos will make Raven fall for him. He'll make her forget the club, forget it all. The only problem is Raven isn't all she seems. She has a past, one none of them ever anticipated.
When the truth comes out, it will be up to Carlos and Smokey to bring her back, to stop her from falling. Will they be able to save her, or will the demons of her...
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2022
145 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
About the author
Sam Crescent
552 books5,505 followersSam Crescent is passionate about fiction. She loves a good erotic romance and so it only made sense for her to spread her wings and start writing. She began writing in 2009 and finally got that first acceptance in 2011 by Total-E-Bound.
She loved creating new characters and delving into the worlds that she creates. When she’s not panicking about a story or arguing with a character, she can be found in her kitchen creating all kinds of havoc. Like her stories the creations in the kitchen can be just as dubious but sometimes things turn out great.
She loved creating new characters and delving into the worlds that she creates. When she’s not panicking about a story or arguing with a character, she can be found in her kitchen creating all kinds of havoc. Like her stories the creations in the kitchen can be just as dubious but sometimes things turn out great.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 18, 2022
If you have not read the first two in this series (Ugly Beast and Smokey) I would highly recommend you do that before reading Raven's book. If you just jump right into Raven I don't feel you will get the appropriate feel for how Raven changes between all 3 books and I feel it's important to understand her character. Many readers hated Raven after the events that unfolded in Smokey's story between Raven and Ava. However, I wasn't one that hated her. I felt that she did what was demanded by her Prez and then even redeemed herself in the way she put her life on the line to protect Ava, even with them at odds.
There is so much I want to say about this book.
Raven and her story hurt my soul for the pain and secrets she carried.
My heart broke when nobody realized just how important every person and the club was to Raven.
But I was completely shattered when nobody could see the guilt she carried herself without anyone laying blame at her feet. Raven doesn't believe she deserves to live. She's under the impression everyone she loves gets hurt and it's all because of who she is that she can't save them.
As an outsider, away from the situation that everyone was in with Ava, Carlos Santiago is the only one who could see the guilt and pain Raven carried. But not even Carlos knows the weight that Raven has carried around with her, he doesn't know all the scars and nightmares she battles everyday. Nobody understands just how useless Raven believes she is, just how close she is to just ending all her pain because who would miss her?
This story. Man I knew it was going to gut me. I knew from the beginning Raven was not all she portrayed herself as. I was so upset that Smokey couldn't see and understand what he gave Raven. I don't think he ever considered that she saw him as so much more than just her Prez. I was glad though to see the club members come together to put Smokey in his place and get his head out of his a$$ and see what he was doing to the one person who has always had their backs and did what was necessary for the club without any questions asked.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There is so much I want to say about this book.
Raven and her story hurt my soul for the pain and secrets she carried.
My heart broke when nobody realized just how important every person and the club was to Raven.
But I was completely shattered when nobody could see the guilt she carried herself without anyone laying blame at her feet. Raven doesn't believe she deserves to live. She's under the impression everyone she loves gets hurt and it's all because of who she is that she can't save them.
As an outsider, away from the situation that everyone was in with Ava, Carlos Santiago is the only one who could see the guilt and pain Raven carried. But not even Carlos knows the weight that Raven has carried around with her, he doesn't know all the scars and nightmares she battles everyday. Nobody understands just how useless Raven believes she is, just how close she is to just ending all her pain because who would miss her?
This story. Man I knew it was going to gut me. I knew from the beginning Raven was not all she portrayed herself as. I was so upset that Smokey couldn't see and understand what he gave Raven. I don't think he ever considered that she saw him as so much more than just her Prez. I was glad though to see the club members come together to put Smokey in his place and get his head out of his a$$ and see what he was doing to the one person who has always had their backs and did what was necessary for the club without any questions asked.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2022
This is the second book I have read by this author. There were some things about Smokey (the previous book) that irked me. Those problems continued to linger in this installment. I’ll list what I liked and didn’t below.
I liked:
1. The premise of the book was creative.
2. I thought the main and secondary characters were interesting and I became invested in them.
3. This author is great at some serious angst building.
4. There was sizzling chemistry between the MC’s.
I disliked:
1. The prose could be improved. I felt like we were told, not shown what was occurring. The author made some odd choices in grammar and phrasing. The characters seemed wooden at times. Sentences were choppy. The author often used odd choices of words.
2. The ridiculous, OTT aliases of the bikers! “Smokey, Big Dick, Ugly Beast…” are such ridiculous cliches. We never learned Smokey’s real name! What the heck did Ava put on Umberto’s birth certificate!? Same with Bella. Is “Ugly Beast” listed as the father? We finally found out that one of the bikers is actually an Umberto and Smokey told Ava to name her son that, which she blindly did with no explanation from Smokey. What!?
3. Characters’ motives were often unclear.
I’m simultaneously invested and turned off by this series. Overall, it’s as fun as it is exasperating. I’ll likely continue it!
I was provided with a free copy of this book via NetGalley and my opinion is freely-given.
I liked:
1. The premise of the book was creative.
2. I thought the main and secondary characters were interesting and I became invested in them.
3. This author is great at some serious angst building.
4. There was sizzling chemistry between the MC’s.
I disliked:
1. The prose could be improved. I felt like we were told, not shown what was occurring. The author made some odd choices in grammar and phrasing. The characters seemed wooden at times. Sentences were choppy. The author often used odd choices of words.
2. The ridiculous, OTT aliases of the bikers! “Smokey, Big Dick, Ugly Beast…” are such ridiculous cliches. We never learned Smokey’s real name! What the heck did Ava put on Umberto’s birth certificate!? Same with Bella. Is “Ugly Beast” listed as the father? We finally found out that one of the bikers is actually an Umberto and Smokey told Ava to name her son that, which she blindly did with no explanation from Smokey. What!?
3. Characters’ motives were often unclear.
I’m simultaneously invested and turned off by this series. Overall, it’s as fun as it is exasperating. I’ll likely continue it!
I was provided with a free copy of this book via NetGalley and my opinion is freely-given.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2023
Happy to see Raven get an HEA. She has been through so much in her past and has never felt like she deserved anything good.
Carlos head of the Mafia has wanted Raven for a long time. Smokey and Carlos make an agreement. Not a good one but hey it eventually turn happy.
Carlos head of the Mafia has wanted Raven for a long time. Smokey and Carlos make an agreement. Not a good one but hey it eventually turn happy.
March 3, 2023
This is Carlos and Ravens Story and it easily kept me entertained. I’ve noticed throughout this series that the individuals involved are all extremely fluid in regard to their intentions there is no black and white just varying shades of grey so in this respect they do come across as flawed and human which appeals to me a great deal.
This is definitely the case with Raven we have seen the worst and best this girl has to offer. Now we get to see the girl behind the mask and it becomes very obvious that our girl has become an absolute pro at projecting a false front. Raven is far more vulnerable than anyone could ever have imagined she’s just very skilled at hiding and Carlos is the only one that has taken the time to scrape beneath this superficial surface.
Smokey is another still struggling with deep guilt and regret and he’s attempting to clean house by removing all negative associations it actually says more about him than Ava as she has let it go. But the weight of his heavy feelings cause Raven to get caught in the crossfire she sees this coming a mile off now she just needs to accept that her burden is a shared one she was only following orders any of her own self-doubts she silenced because it’s more than apparent here that Raven doesn’t trust her own judgement. Carlos is determined to assist with both her guilt and building her back up.
A deal between Carlos and Smokey sees Raven accompany him to the city under the pretence of keeping him safe. Here she will pose as his loving fiancé but if Carlos has his way the position will be a permanent one. This is a precarious tower of lies and manipulation just waiting to topple and it’s only going to take one tiny weak breeze for it to go nuclear destroying Raven's carefully constructed foundations and exposing the painful reality. These two can tell themselves all they want they were doing it for Raven's own good in reality they both hugely benefited and took away Raven's free choices manipulating her.
There was chemistry, passion, love betrayal, and danger combined with a heartbreaking backstory. We also get some anticipated redemption and then heartwarming reconciliation. It was well written and gave a great picture of who Raven really is at her core underneath the brash give no fucks exterior. This was a thumbs up from me I enjoyed it a lot.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
August 24, 2022
After what Raven did in Smokey’s book to Ava I really hated her. I didn’t think there was any redemption for her but I was so wrong. This book showed a whole different side to Raven and seeing her guilt and pain was heartbreaking. I was so angry at Smokey and Carlos for what they did to her. I was glad to see Raven get a HEA. This series is really good and hard to put down but the characters are infuriating. Not sure if that’s what the author intended but these men do some things that are hard to forgive. I am waiting for so many stories in their series! I can’t wait to see where it goes and which characters get matched up together.
May 3, 2023
I have been wanting to read what happens to Raven since book one! She is an amazing and complex heroine with a lot of secrets. It takes a Mafia Boss to find them out. I loved this one... Raven kicks ass and seeing her grow and come to understand that not everything is as it seems, and that she is in fact loved and wanted was beautiful. The MC should have gotten a collective butt-kicking... but that is just me. I can't wait for the next book in the series
March 29, 2024
My rating: 3 1/2 stars
What I loved: I loved Raven(h). The way she felt like she wasn’t worth forgiveness had me crying. Her past broke my heart. I’m so happy Carlos(H) and Smokey worked together to help her to see her worth. I also loved how the club let Smokey know how wrong he was.
What I didn’t like: I wished Raven would have made them grovel more but that is me being petty ;) I also wished we would have gotten to read Smokey taking care of Raven’s past instead of just telling us.
**Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: Sex trafficking in past, attempt suicide. h is a patch member of an MC. If you read Smokey’s book you know that he order the h to handle his woman( who he thought betrayed him) when he realized he was wrong it was too late and damage was already done. In this book Smokey is getting rid of everyone that hurt his woman (even though he ordered it) because he feels guilty and because his woman keeps having nightmares. h is having a hard time forgiving herself in her part she did to Smokey’s wife, because of that the h avoids her. h also feels guilty about her role in Ugly Beast’s woman getting taken in the first book. With those two things weighing on her plus her past (h’s father died and her mother remarried a bad man who pimp the young h, telling her that if she did it he would save her mom who was dying. We find out that the step dad was poisoning the mom) the h tempts to kill herself daily by playing Russian Roulette. The H, who is the head of the mafia, has had a crush on the h and wants her badly. So when the H has someone trying to kill him and he finds out what Smokey is doing, he makes a deal with him….send the h to protect him and he will do all in his power to get the h pregnant and keep her by his side. He agrees and the h is sent to protect the H. H and h get close and become sexual partners. During this time Smokey starts to feel guilty for making the deal. When the h and H are taken by a bad mafia guy the club comes to save them. H finds out that the h is pregnant and wants the h to marry him. With that h goes to visit her friend, they tell her about the deal the H and Smokey made. h goes to confront them. She tells the H she wants nothing to do with him even if she is pregnant and she leaves the club. The club is furious with their president and he tells them that he will make things right. H and Smokey work together after they find out about the h attempts to commit suicide. Smokey tells the h that he killed her stepfather and that he killed the guy the stepfather was giving the h too when he found out what happened to her. He tells her that she will always be a part of the club. H tells the h that he loves her and is willing to split his time with them there and with his men. HEA with the h married to the H, she is back with the club and her having twin baby girls.
Final thoughts: This book pulled at my heartstrings. Raven was such a strong character and I’m glad I read her book. I definitely will read Hunter’s book soon.
What I loved: I loved Raven(h). The way she felt like she wasn’t worth forgiveness had me crying. Her past broke my heart. I’m so happy Carlos(H) and Smokey worked together to help her to see her worth. I also loved how the club let Smokey know how wrong he was.
What I didn’t like: I wished Raven would have made them grovel more but that is me being petty ;) I also wished we would have gotten to read Smokey taking care of Raven’s past instead of just telling us.
**Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: Sex trafficking in past, attempt suicide. h is a patch member of an MC. If you read Smokey’s book you know that he order the h to handle his woman( who he thought betrayed him) when he realized he was wrong it was too late and damage was already done. In this book Smokey is getting rid of everyone that hurt his woman (even though he ordered it) because he feels guilty and because his woman keeps having nightmares. h is having a hard time forgiving herself in her part she did to Smokey’s wife, because of that the h avoids her. h also feels guilty about her role in Ugly Beast’s woman getting taken in the first book. With those two things weighing on her plus her past (h’s father died and her mother remarried a bad man who pimp the young h, telling her that if she did it he would save her mom who was dying. We find out that the step dad was poisoning the mom) the h tempts to kill herself daily by playing Russian Roulette. The H, who is the head of the mafia, has had a crush on the h and wants her badly. So when the H has someone trying to kill him and he finds out what Smokey is doing, he makes a deal with him….send the h to protect him and he will do all in his power to get the h pregnant and keep her by his side. He agrees and the h is sent to protect the H. H and h get close and become sexual partners. During this time Smokey starts to feel guilty for making the deal. When the h and H are taken by a bad mafia guy the club comes to save them. H finds out that the h is pregnant and wants the h to marry him. With that h goes to visit her friend, they tell her about the deal the H and Smokey made. h goes to confront them. She tells the H she wants nothing to do with him even if she is pregnant and she leaves the club. The club is furious with their president and he tells them that he will make things right. H and Smokey work together after they find out about the h attempts to commit suicide. Smokey tells the h that he killed her stepfather and that he killed the guy the stepfather was giving the h too when he found out what happened to her. He tells her that she will always be a part of the club. H tells the h that he loves her and is willing to split his time with them there and with his men. HEA with the h married to the H, she is back with the club and her having twin baby girls.
Final thoughts: This book pulled at my heartstrings. Raven was such a strong character and I’m glad I read her book. I definitely will read Hunter’s book soon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2023
I've wanted to read their story for a while. I was a little disappointed by a lot of it, but I'm still happy to see them together. This is NOT a standalone.
Raven (only female club member, dark past, self-worth issues) met Carlos (mafia boss) when the club and his group were fighting/working together when someone was trying to take down both the MC and Mafia group. Carlos took an instant liking to Raven, but she wasn't having it. Raven is still suffering from the guilt from the last two books. Specifically in the last book when Smokey thought Ava was a narc and ordered her to beat Ava up. Now, Smokey is slowing removing anyone that had to do with Ava's beating from the club, and that includes Raven.
Carlos needs a wife and his eyes are set on Raven. He knows of Smokey's plans to get rid of her so they come up with a solution. Smokey will tell her she's going to protect Carlos since someone has put a hit out on him. She also has to pose as his fiancé. Of course, Raven finds out and is heartbroken. The way Carlos goes about winning her back is an EXACT copy of the way Smokey went about winning back Ava. In this one, I don't think Carlos did nearly enough groveling. He should have been on his knees for her.
TRIGGERS We also find out how Smokey and Raven met and what dark past she's been hiding.
My biggest issue (besides there not being enough sex) is half the book is spent on Smokey and Ava's POVs, along with other club members POVs. I didn't want all of that. I ended up skimming most of those POVs because I didn't need them.
I love Carlos though. What can I say - I love mafia men.
Raven (only female club member, dark past, self-worth issues) met Carlos (mafia boss) when the club and his group were fighting/working together when someone was trying to take down both the MC and Mafia group. Carlos took an instant liking to Raven, but she wasn't having it. Raven is still suffering from the guilt from the last two books. Specifically in the last book when Smokey thought Ava was a narc and ordered her to beat Ava up. Now, Smokey is slowing removing anyone that had to do with Ava's beating from the club, and that includes Raven.
Carlos needs a wife and his eyes are set on Raven. He knows of Smokey's plans to get rid of her so they come up with a solution. Smokey will tell her she's going to protect Carlos since someone has put a hit out on him. She also has to pose as his fiancé. Of course, Raven finds out and is heartbroken. The way Carlos goes about winning her back is an EXACT copy of the way Smokey went about winning back Ava. In this one, I don't think Carlos did nearly enough groveling. He should have been on his knees for her.
TRIGGERS We also find out how Smokey and Raven met and what dark past she's been hiding.
My biggest issue (besides there not being enough sex) is half the book is spent on Smokey and Ava's POVs, along with other club members POVs. I didn't want all of that. I ended up skimming most of those POVs because I didn't need them.
I love Carlos though. What can I say - I love mafia men.
August 25, 2022
Wow........... I don't know what to say. Just as you think Smokey was an ahole in "Smokey", you get even more of his ahole'ish behavior in Raven. My heart was absolutely broken for what Raven went through as a young girl and even now with what Smokey and Carlos did. Loved the groveling. What makes all Sam Crescent's books so special to me is the groveling scenes and the fact that the heroines don't give in to quickly.
Absolutely amazing read.
Absolutely amazing read.
October 13, 2023
I was curious about Raven and Carlos from the previous book as Raven came up as a heroine who is fearless and can stand her ground,so i went into this book with high hopes! But guess what? Sam went back to her usual clusterfuck storyline of a doormat(I hate,no detest how she wrote Raven's character) and an asshole,with a storyline that's boring if not predictable and not captivating. Secondary characters actually made this book tolerable.
September 11, 2022
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4.5/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Hero : Carlos
Heroine : Raven
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 6/10
Heat Rating : 5/10
Triggers Involved : Past Trauma , Betrayal , Self Harm
Plot Summary :
Raven knows she does not deserve anything good in this life. She has hurt too many innocent souls for that. And she needs to pay. She know swhat is coming and sinner or later smokey will throw her out for what happened with his women and her involvement in that. And she does not blame him. She deserves it all. That is until she gets a job. To gaurd the cartel king. Carlos. He is nothing like she has ever met before and she finds that she likes being with him because he values her opinion. He wants to love her and she might just allow him to do that.
Carlos knows the gem Raven is. And when he gets a chance to keep her , he takes it. He knows it will break her heart when she learns the truth but there is no other way. This is for the best. Because the stay that Raven considers is a job for her? It's not temporary. She is here to stay with him and there is no way he is letting her go.
Overall Opinion :
Raven is here! I have been waiting for this book ever since i read smokey. That book was a gem and so is this one! I honestly never expect Sam to disappoint and that turns out to be true! Raven is a masterpiece for all the biker romance lovers out there. Although this one is a standalone z I think the best experience would be to read them all in order.
This book is dark and raven absolutely broke my heart. The things she went through were so much. I loved her a lot and wanted to hug her so bad! She finally had her happy ending and that makes me so happy because she did deserve it all. Definitely recommending this one to all the dark romance loving people out there.
Website | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | NewsletterSeptember 9, 2022
This was an awesome read that had be glued to the pages from the very beginning. I loved Raven and how tough and self-sufficient she was. Carlos did get on my nerves a little with all the secrecy and manipulation he used but I could tell he really did care for Raven, just went about it wrong. I can't wait to read the previous books in this series because I absolutely loved this book and all the side characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2024
I love this series!
Thank you! This is an incredible journey. I haven't cried so much and I have loved Raven since the beginning. I knew Carlos was hooked immediately after seeing her. Loved this story ❤️ I hope more is too come...maybe.. ❤️ 💙 💜 💗 💖 ♥️ ❤️ 💙 hopefully 👍
Thank you! This is an incredible journey. I haven't cried so much and I have loved Raven since the beginning. I knew Carlos was hooked immediately after seeing her. Loved this story ❤️ I hope more is too come...maybe.. ❤️ 💙 💜 💗 💖 ♥️ ❤️ 💙 hopefully 👍
November 17, 2023
Wow. This story was all over the place. The most complex I’ve ever read by this author. I don’t even know where to begin.
Well maybe some trigger warnings. The FMC is sui€idal. The FMC was a child s e x sorta trafficked victim. The FMC is massively depressed. Lastly, the FMC was bartered by her own prez. All of that is out of context of the story as the story unfolds all of this over time. It was sort of gut wrenching but you knew it was going to be bad from the beginning.
I don’t know how to review this story. It had so many elements with some of the usual you’d find in a Sam Crescent book. I honestly came to hate Smokey in this book. No matter the HEA I still ended the book hating him. I feel he is a careless character and I can’t equate that with him supposed being such a great MC president.
Besides the blending of mafia and MC worlds didn’t play out believably. I can’t see any mafia outfit still following a boss that disappears so consistently as this MMC does. As for the couple marrying that was fine but it was the blatant disregard the MMC showed for his own people that I question the success the author ended the book on.
As for the MMC, I can’t shake my head enough on him. He is the most unrealistic mafia boss I’ve ever read. No way can you abandon your people to chase a woman the way this guy did. Only for him to act like a wussy through the majority of the book. I just didn’t get a good grasp of what the author was trying to make him out to be.
I liked the story. It held my attention. Mostly because it was unexpected from this author. But was it good, eh. It needed something more but I don’t know what. I would definitely read more of this series. It’s definitely been one of her best so far. Good luck.
Well maybe some trigger warnings. The FMC is sui€idal. The FMC was a child s e x sorta trafficked victim. The FMC is massively depressed. Lastly, the FMC was bartered by her own prez. All of that is out of context of the story as the story unfolds all of this over time. It was sort of gut wrenching but you knew it was going to be bad from the beginning.
I don’t know how to review this story. It had so many elements with some of the usual you’d find in a Sam Crescent book. I honestly came to hate Smokey in this book. No matter the HEA I still ended the book hating him. I feel he is a careless character and I can’t equate that with him supposed being such a great MC president.
Besides the blending of mafia and MC worlds didn’t play out believably. I can’t see any mafia outfit still following a boss that disappears so consistently as this MMC does. As for the couple marrying that was fine but it was the blatant disregard the MMC showed for his own people that I question the success the author ended the book on.
As for the MMC, I can’t shake my head enough on him. He is the most unrealistic mafia boss I’ve ever read. No way can you abandon your people to chase a woman the way this guy did. Only for him to act like a wussy through the majority of the book. I just didn’t get a good grasp of what the author was trying to make him out to be.
I liked the story. It held my attention. Mostly because it was unexpected from this author. But was it good, eh. It needed something more but I don’t know what. I would definitely read more of this series. It’s definitely been one of her best so far. Good luck.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2022
Wow! Smokey is cleaning house and getting rid of anyone who hurt Ava when she was believed to be a traitor. Raven knows she is next and it is tearing her apart. The thing is the one that was the most guilty was Smokey. Everyone was acting on his orders and yet they are the ones being pushed out. Really makes you dislike him, especially when he decides the guys could stay since Ava had forgiven them. Unfortunately, Ava and Smokey seem to not be communicating well because Ava forgave Raven when she nearly died for her and the. baby.
The more you hear about Raven's past and how she met Smoke just makes you feel even worse for her. Carlos wants her but he goes about it the wrong way and ends up hurting her as much as Smokey.
The more you hear about Raven's past and how she met Smoke just makes you feel even worse for her. Carlos wants her but he goes about it the wrong way and ends up hurting her as much as Smokey.
December 8, 2022
Loved it
The fact that Smokey is still cleaning house after the decision he made makes me like him less. If he was going to do all that he should have left Ava alone , not made everyone pay for his guilt . I loved how strong Raven is and how she forgave Smokey for giving her away and Carlos for tricking her and making that deal with Smokey . I love that we got more of her back story and how lost she was , but that was gotten from a deceitful way also . Ava ended up being the saving grace in this story and I loved that .
The fact that Smokey is still cleaning house after the decision he made makes me like him less. If he was going to do all that he should have left Ava alone , not made everyone pay for his guilt . I loved how strong Raven is and how she forgave Smokey for giving her away and Carlos for tricking her and making that deal with Smokey . I love that we got more of her back story and how lost she was , but that was gotten from a deceitful way also . Ava ended up being the saving grace in this story and I loved that .
May 3, 2024
This had a huge impact when I read this the first time. Upon reading this again, the heartache was turned down a notch because I knew how this played out. Overall, a heartfelt read and one I would recommend not reading right after Smokey if you want to feel the full angst of Raven’s guilt and traumatic past.
August 19, 2022
Carlos is the new mafia head and he had his eye on Raven. He saw what Smokey was doing, cleaning house. How easy it would be to make a deal to take Raven off his hands. Raven’s past is keeping her up at night. She sees the ugliness in herself. She would do anything for family even play bodyguard to Carlos. But Smokey isn’t telling her everything and the club is in an uproar over what he has done. Will Raven forgive him? I have to say, I am not happy with Smokey. What the heck is wrong with him? I get that he wants to make Ava’s life easier but did he talk to Ava about what he was doing. I know club business isn’t for the old ladies but with Ava, she had a right to know from the start. He just was digging himself deeper. And Raven, we are going to finally learn about her past and not only what drives her but the darkness that she hasn’t spoken to anyone about. I fear for her life and her pain. This isn’t as dark as Smokey’s but this one will pull at your heart strings. Carlos isn’t as bad as he seemed in the beginning. He really cares for Raven. When you read about her past, OMG grab a tissue. What a sad and scary life. It will pull at your heart. Plus you also learn how she came to be with the club. The women of club stepped up too. I love Harlow, Ava, and Abrianna. They really love Raven. And what is the deal with Hunter (VP) and Harlow, Big Dicks sister. There is a story there and you know it is coming.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2022
Finally Raven’s story! She is such a bada**, rough and tough and the only female of the Hell’s Bastards MC. Her life is filled with pain, both physical and emotional, that she often lashes out, not knowing how to act. This bravado makes her seem unapproachable and sometimes unlikeable, but she’s like an onion, in the sense that you need to peel back the layers to find her true core. This story picks up right from the end of book two. While you don’t have to have read the previous ones to enjoy this, since the author recaps the highlights nicely, I highly recommend that you do. In her quest of redemption Raven agrees to “protect “ club ally Carlos Santiago, head of the Santiago mafia outfit, not knowing that Carlos has his own agenda. Carlos wants Raven for his own and he always gets what he wants. This is not your typical MC or Mafia romance. Yes there’s action and dark subject matter but both leads are more than just strong characters. their depth, especially Raven’s makes this a much more beautiful journey (even though that sounds corny it’s true). As previously noted there is some dark subjects that are touched upon, so reader beware, but the author handles the subjects beautifully, making you really feel for the characters. I can’t say how much I loved this story, and hope for more soon about the other brothers. 5 stars, must read. I voluntarily read and reviewed an arc copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
April 14, 2023
Beautiful, Raven.
Holy wow.
I’m overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions right now.
Raven, what a freaking character. What an absolute powerhouse.
This entire series has been…just amazing. After reading the last two books, I walked away loving the female characters more than the male characters and that’s never happened for me before. But Sam can write a female character like it’s nobody’s business.
While reading this book, I was on a serious emotional roller coaster with Raven.
I don’t want to ruin the book and give any spoilers but this woman is seriously dealing with issues…serious issues that break your heart for it.
What you’ll love though, is the relentless way that Carlos loves her and vows to protect her, sometimes even from her own club.
P.S. I hated Smokey and Ava so much for the biggest chunk of this book. If Ava could take Smokey back and move on and he was the one who ordered that attack on her, there’s no reason she should have logically still not liked Raven. And Smokey, what a cop out. He was the Prez, he was the shot caller, for him to try and do what he did to Raven…not cool at all.
I loved Ugly Beast and all the other boys for their unwavering loyalty to Raven.
Overall, a phenomenal book and I really hope not the end of the series.
Holy wow.
I’m overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions right now.
Raven, what a freaking character. What an absolute powerhouse.
This entire series has been…just amazing. After reading the last two books, I walked away loving the female characters more than the male characters and that’s never happened for me before. But Sam can write a female character like it’s nobody’s business.
While reading this book, I was on a serious emotional roller coaster with Raven.
I don’t want to ruin the book and give any spoilers but this woman is seriously dealing with issues…serious issues that break your heart for it.
What you’ll love though, is the relentless way that Carlos loves her and vows to protect her, sometimes even from her own club.
P.S. I hated Smokey and Ava so much for the biggest chunk of this book. If Ava could take Smokey back and move on and he was the one who ordered that attack on her, there’s no reason she should have logically still not liked Raven. And Smokey, what a cop out. He was the Prez, he was the shot caller, for him to try and do what he did to Raven…not cool at all.
I loved Ugly Beast and all the other boys for their unwavering loyalty to Raven.
Overall, a phenomenal book and I really hope not the end of the series.
August 26, 2022
Wow, what a ride! Sam's writing just gets better & better. I knew this would be an interesting story, as Raven has been a mysterious character in the Hell Bastard MC series. She's the only female patched in member, doesn't sleep around or with the other brothers, is as tough as the male members and always has their backs. I would definitely recommend you read Ugly Beast & Smokey before reading Raven's book. You need to get Raven's history first to better understand her character and actions now. Duty to the club is important to Raven and Smokey's, her Prez, word or order is absolute. I don't want to go into all the book's details, you can read the summary. I will say to have a few tissues handy while you read. At the heart of this story is how terrible or traumatic things that happen in your childhood can effect your adulthood. It's amazing how things said/done to you can skew your thinking. This was at times heartbreaking but in the end, Sam did Raven justice. This is one of her best writings to date. The length was perfect and the drama didn't drag on and was tough to put this down. I would love to see Harlow and Larissa get a book also. I voluntarily read and reviewed an arc copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are absolutely my own.
August 15, 2022
We got a really good look at Raven in Smokey's book. I swore then that I would never like her after what happened in that book. Now Sam Crescent has given us her story. Honestly, I didn't think I could be swayed to change my mind but I should have known better. We were warned that Raven's story was very, very troubled and yeah, I had no clue what she had been through in her past! As the story unfolded, my mind changed and Raven, while she won't ever be a "favorite", stole my heart! It was gut wrenching to see what she put herself through in the aftermath of what she did in Smokey's story. And Carlos, I wanted him to take her far away from the club because I didn't want her anywhere around it................that changed also. I loved Carlos and while he wanted her, I don't think he realized just how bad he had it for her. There is still danger and it will take everyone to get through it all. I freaking loved this story. Redemption, love, loyalty, steamy sexy scenes, it's all here and it's all so good!!! If you haven't read Smokey yet, I think it would be a good idea so you know why Raven does the things she does.
September 11, 2022
This story follows Raven and Carlos. This is the conclusion to the Hell’s Bastards MC series trilogy. I really do recommend reading Ugly Beast and Smokey before this book. A Raven is suffering with such guilt over torturing Ava when ordered by her club President, Smokey. He believed Ava had betrayed the club when she hadn’t. Smokey starts removing people who were involved, and Raven knows her time is short. It turns out that Carlos wants Raven. Raven is slow to trust. She can’t believe Carlos really cares for her and she is devastated when she learns Smokey gave her to Carlos. The club is like her family and she feels betrayed. He and Smokey make a deal that helps Smokey and allows Carlos to keep Raven and this keeps Raven from the MC which, in the long run is better for her. Raven has a disturbing past which makes sense why she so strongly feels for Smokey and the club and is reliant on them for her family. She is slow to trust Carlos but he really shows Raven that he really cares for her but will she be able to move past the hurt when she finds out that Smokey basically gave her away?.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 11, 2022
“She was his now. There was no turning back.”
Be prepared to cry. That’s the most important thing to know. This book is full of sorrow because that’s where Raven lives now. I expected it to be emotional but it was so much more. I felt so sorry for poor Raven. Yes, she did some bad things but not due to malice. She’s not a cruel person. Everything she did was for love and loyalty to her “family”. It broke my heart to see how much she hated herself.
Carlos was perfect. He was exactly what she needed and I loved him for it. I’m so happy he saved her, because ultimately that’s what he did. I want to give him a big hug!
This is book three in a series and to be honest, you really need to read the other two books first. There’s no way to really understand the people involved and their actions and beliefs in this book if you haven’t read the others. Sam tries to explain but you can’t summarize everything that happened in the other books enough. Trust me. Read Ugly Beast and Smokey first and then come back and read Raven. And cry.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Be prepared to cry. That’s the most important thing to know. This book is full of sorrow because that’s where Raven lives now. I expected it to be emotional but it was so much more. I felt so sorry for poor Raven. Yes, she did some bad things but not due to malice. She’s not a cruel person. Everything she did was for love and loyalty to her “family”. It broke my heart to see how much she hated herself.
Carlos was perfect. He was exactly what she needed and I loved him for it. I’m so happy he saved her, because ultimately that’s what he did. I want to give him a big hug!
This is book three in a series and to be honest, you really need to read the other two books first. There’s no way to really understand the people involved and their actions and beliefs in this book if you haven’t read the others. Sam tries to explain but you can’t summarize everything that happened in the other books enough. Trust me. Read Ugly Beast and Smokey first and then come back and read Raven. And cry.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2022
Raven is the only female in the Hell’s Bastards Motorcycle Club. She has had a very rough childhood. Raven notices the Prez cleaning house by getting rid of the “girls” who hurt his wife. Raven is sure she is next because of her part in it. Carlos is the head boss of the Santiago mafia. He helped Raven when she was beaten and now he wants her for his wife. Carlos and Stormy, Prez of HB Motorcycle Club, come to an agreement. Someone tried to kill Carlos and Stormy sends her to be his bodyguard. He plans on getting her pregnant and marrying her. But when she finds out their plans, she quits the Club and leaves Carlos. Will Carlos earn her forgiveness and have a happily ever after?
I’ll be honest, I almost quit reading after the first chapter or so. I had no idea what was going on. But I stuck with it and I’m glad a did. Sex. Secrets. Bikers. Mafia. It would be best to read the ones before this one. Keep some Kleenex’s near because it is a tearjerker.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley *
I’ll be honest, I almost quit reading after the first chapter or so. I had no idea what was going on. But I stuck with it and I’m glad a did. Sex. Secrets. Bikers. Mafia. It would be best to read the ones before this one. Keep some Kleenex’s near because it is a tearjerker.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley *
September 1, 2022
Raven still has tremendous guilt over torturing Ava when ordered by her club pres Smokey who believed that Ava had betrayed the club. When Smokey starts removing people who were involved, Raven knows that it's only a matter of time before she is removed too. Mafia Man Carlos wants Raven and makes a deal with Smokey that helps Smokey and allows him to hopefully keep Raven forever. Raven has a disturbing past which makes sense why she so strongly feels for Smokey and the club and is reliant on them for her family. She is slow to trust Carlos but he really shows Raven that he really cares for her but will she be able to move past the hurt when she finds out that Smokey basically gave her away? I really enjoyed this story much more than Smokey because that one really was quite brutal and I don't know that I would ever have forgiven him if I was Ava but you do need to read it to understand why Raven is feeling so guilty and lost. We get Raven's back story and can see why Carlos would be so drawn to a brave and damaged soul like Raven's.
August 16, 2022
Raven is full of heartache and pain. It's a story of survival, love, loyalty and finally acceptance. We met Raven in book 1 of this series and now we get the full extent of all that she's been through. Even though she was acting on Smokeys orders, Raven has a difficult time dealing with the things she's done as well as things from her own past. My heart broke for Raven, yeah I know, there's probably some that won't agree but, getting more insight into her makes understanding her a bit easier. Then there's Carlos, he wants her so bad yet he ends up hurting also. She deserves her hea and I wondered for a little while if Carlos would be the one to give it to her, but when they finally get it together there's no stopping them. The chemistry is out of this world. I do suggest reading Smokey's book first although it's not necessarily required, it will help to better understand Raven and her story.
November 12, 2022
Raven has secrets that noone is aware of. When she thinks that she is helping her MC by protecting the Mafia boss she doesn't realize it was a plan to get her out of the MC. Carlos fell for Raven when he first saw her and used it to his advantage to get her with him.
Smokey and Carlos never thought of anyone else when they hatched out their plan, especially Raven. I don't fault Carlos at all. He fell for her and he needed a way to get her in his world. As for Smokey, I can't stand him. He was the worst excuse of a Prez. He didn't take fault with what he had done. He just figured if he got rid of anyone involved it would absolve his mistake. The whole MC was pissed at him for his part in the whole situation.
I loved that Carlo's didn't let anyone talk him out of fighting for Raven. Even though there is a certain code of honor they are supposed to uphold. He fought for her and wasn't going to let anyone change what he wanted.
Smokey and Carlos never thought of anyone else when they hatched out their plan, especially Raven. I don't fault Carlos at all. He fell for her and he needed a way to get her in his world. As for Smokey, I can't stand him. He was the worst excuse of a Prez. He didn't take fault with what he had done. He just figured if he got rid of anyone involved it would absolve his mistake. The whole MC was pissed at him for his part in the whole situation.
I loved that Carlo's didn't let anyone talk him out of fighting for Raven. Even though there is a certain code of honor they are supposed to uphold. He fought for her and wasn't going to let anyone change what he wanted.
August 19, 2022
Raven is book 3 of the Hell’s Bastard MC. I would highly suggest you read the first 2 books of the series before reading this one. You will understand it much better. In this book we finally get Raven’s story. The only female in the MC. Her story was so heartbreaking. I fell in love with Carlos from the beginning. He was such a likable guy, even when he shouldn’t have been. I loved the dynamic of Raven and Carlos together. Smokey really got on my nerves in this book, but he eventually redeemed himself towards the end of the book. Again, I highly suggest reading the other 2 books first before this one, but overall, this was an excellent addition to the series and Sam Crescent did an amazing job with Raven’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2022
Going into this world and book three of this series, I found I was really intrigued by the fact that Raven is the only female MC member who radiates massive big dick energy but also is just a badass through and through. In this book especially you see her growth as a person and as an MC member. I found I liked her even more in her own book because we got to see her for her. Carlos and Raven's love story definitely starts off rocky, and I didn't necessarily like them in the beginning. They both really grow in the span of this book and their chemistry is just incredible. By the end I wanted them to be together and with one another.
Definitely a series to jump right into, these MC books are a force to be reckoned with!
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review
Definitely a series to jump right into, these MC books are a force to be reckoned with!
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review
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