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Lesser #3
Harder Betrayal
I knew a relationship with Cauldron wouldn't be easy.
But I underestimated just how challenging it would be.
How can you love someone that refuses to love you back?
How can you love someone that betrays you not once, but twice?
But I underestimated just how challenging it would be.
How can you love someone that refuses to love you back?
How can you love someone that betrays you not once, but twice?
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 25, 2022
1875 people are currently reading
662 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Sky
74 books6,614 followersA New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, Penelope Sky is known for her dark romance that makes you fall for her characters….no matter how dark they seem. Her books are being translated into several languages around the world, and she’s sold more than a million books worldwide. She lives in a small town in California with her husband, where she spends most of her time writing on the back porch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
April 14, 2025
2.75 - 3 Smut Scale Stars
I enjoyed this well enough. I like Cauldron and Camille’s…dedication to each other.
But again, Grave and Elise took half the book. This very much felt like their story as much as Cauldron and Camille. With Grave saying things about Elise being twice the woman Camille was. Odd to undermine what is supposedly the main female character in her own story, in my opinion.
And Bartholomew stole the whole show, honestly. Cauldron and Grave - who always fell a little short of badass thought the series in my book - just seemed like complete bumbling milk toast compared to Bartholomew once he arrived on scene. They kept saying everyone was scared of them and that they were untouchable…but it never felt that way. Especially when Bartholomew showed up. In fact, off to start his book now lol.
I enjoyed this well enough. I like Cauldron and Camille’s…dedication to each other.
But again, Grave and Elise took half the book. This very much felt like their story as much as Cauldron and Camille. With Grave saying things about Elise being twice the woman Camille was. Odd to undermine what is supposedly the main female character in her own story, in my opinion.
And Bartholomew stole the whole show, honestly. Cauldron and Grave - who always fell a little short of badass thought the series in my book - just seemed like complete bumbling milk toast compared to Bartholomew once he arrived on scene. They kept saying everyone was scared of them and that they were untouchable…but it never felt that way. Especially when Bartholomew showed up. In fact, off to start his book now lol.
October 27, 2022
4,5. It was a complex story because the lives of the others characters were interconnected. And surprisingly didn’t took the beautiful of all.
It’s worth the reading.
It’s worth the reading.
October 31, 2022
OMG this story got even better. I love love FLOVED harder Betrayal. Camille was strong and assertive and stuck to her guns. Anddd Bartholomew...OMGGG. I need his story stat!! I love how we saw Cauldron's character progression and how much he cared for Camille. I will admit the Elise/ Graves storyline felt sooo rushed. I didn't really FEEL Graves' feelings for Elise. They just kind of happened. But Bartholomew made up for it. I am DYING for his book! 5 stats! ~Ratula
October 28, 2022
3.25-3.5 stars
I back read a little to get the jist but enjoyed this. When I have more time, will go back and read whole series.
I back read a little to get the jist but enjoyed this. When I have more time, will go back and read whole series.
November 22, 2022
1 star ✿
❛On that spring day, I promised to love her forever, and she promised the same to me. And then I married her.❜
and then they got divorced the end.
❛On that spring day, I promised to love her forever, and she promised the same to me. And then I married her.❜
and then they got divorced the end.
October 24, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
After a long wait (well not that long) but it felt like it because I'm sure everyone wanted it to know (and I'm including myself) what it would be the final of this trilogy, and i just need more tbh.
In Harder Betrayal we have as the past book different povs from Cauldron, Camille, Grave and Elise, and we continue right where it ended Better Man: Camille being heartbroken because Cauldron couldn't accept his fears and feelings, so she knows she's done with him and wants to move on even if it’s so hard for her. And in the other hand, we keep going also with the relationship between Grave and Elise because as we read on Better Man, they'd agreed to be exclusive.
So why do I give Harder Betrayal four stars and not the perfect score? Well here's why. The writing, the story, great as always and this is one of the things that I love from Penelope Sky because if you want a book who can keep you reading through all the entire book and not be bored or even feel like what is this?, what the heck with this dialogue? Just choose one of her books and you will be happy for the entire reading. But I feel like in this book something was a little off.
Honestly, I do loved that Camille didn't forgive Cauldron so fast, like he broke your heart two times already, if he wants to get back, you must really reaaally get on your knees and ask for forgiveness and what do we get? He just says: okay I screwed up, I was happy with you and know I get it, get back with me and I'll be a better man (truly) oh and I also love you, but I didn't know it until you get almost killed…..and that's essentially all. Now, I get it, Cauldron is a heartless man and it's not like he was going to arrive with a romantic gesture, but I feel like my girl Camille deserved better and she should had made Cauldron work for her forgiveness, but yeah I'm happy with the end.
And now, about Grave and Elise I just want to say that I need more about them!! It would’ve been so great if they had their book because I really wanted to know more about their life, how it's going to be them as a family, Grave meeting Elise's kids, they finding out they were pregnant (in the future), their wedding, etc., but this is how it is. Next book from Penelope is going to be about Bartholomew and I'm so excited because he is way more dangerous than Cauldron and Grave and it's going to.be a blast reading about him getting crazy (and even obsessed?) with some woman.
Oh and also I'm excited to read more about Camille/Cauldron, Elise/Grave on the epilogues that Penelope is going to send on her next newsletter. It's going to be great reading about their future life one last time.
Thank you so much Penelope, for giving me this opportunity, giving me this ARC in exchange for a honest review. It'll be always a pleasure to give a review of your books.
After a long wait (well not that long) but it felt like it because I'm sure everyone wanted it to know (and I'm including myself) what it would be the final of this trilogy, and i just need more tbh.
In Harder Betrayal we have as the past book different povs from Cauldron, Camille, Grave and Elise, and we continue right where it ended Better Man: Camille being heartbroken because Cauldron couldn't accept his fears and feelings, so she knows she's done with him and wants to move on even if it’s so hard for her. And in the other hand, we keep going also with the relationship between Grave and Elise because as we read on Better Man, they'd agreed to be exclusive.
So why do I give Harder Betrayal four stars and not the perfect score? Well here's why. The writing, the story, great as always and this is one of the things that I love from Penelope Sky because if you want a book who can keep you reading through all the entire book and not be bored or even feel like what is this?, what the heck with this dialogue? Just choose one of her books and you will be happy for the entire reading. But I feel like in this book something was a little off.
Honestly, I do loved that Camille didn't forgive Cauldron so fast, like he broke your heart two times already, if he wants to get back, you must really reaaally get on your knees and ask for forgiveness and what do we get? He just says: okay I screwed up, I was happy with you and know I get it, get back with me and I'll be a better man (truly) oh and I also love you, but I didn't know it until you get almost killed…..and that's essentially all. Now, I get it, Cauldron is a heartless man and it's not like he was going to arrive with a romantic gesture, but I feel like my girl Camille deserved better and she should had made Cauldron work for her forgiveness, but yeah I'm happy with the end.
And now, about Grave and Elise I just want to say that I need more about them!! It would’ve been so great if they had their book because I really wanted to know more about their life, how it's going to be them as a family, Grave meeting Elise's kids, they finding out they were pregnant (in the future), their wedding, etc., but this is how it is. Next book from Penelope is going to be about Bartholomew and I'm so excited because he is way more dangerous than Cauldron and Grave and it's going to.be a blast reading about him getting crazy (and even obsessed?) with some woman.
Oh and also I'm excited to read more about Camille/Cauldron, Elise/Grave on the epilogues that Penelope is going to send on her next newsletter. It's going to be great reading about their future life one last time.
Thank you so much Penelope, for giving me this opportunity, giving me this ARC in exchange for a honest review. It'll be always a pleasure to give a review of your books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2022
4.5 stars
October 28, 2022
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 Stars! This trilogy should have just been a duet, it’s a trilogy because the author told Grave’s story, it was basically his book. Overall I liked it.
October 29, 2022
Excellent conclusion
Oh, I enjoyed this conclusion!
Camille walked away from Cauldron, something he never expected, what started out as stalking enemies has now turn them both to lovers. Cauldron has never been in love before and will find any excuse to push Camille away. They both did not expect this connection.
Will Cauldron allow the only woman to ever make him feel walk away for good? The woman who was able to get him to reunite with his brother and have a chat with his father. What will her walking away do to him?
Although Camille and Cauldron are the main characters, we also get a glimpse of Grave and Elise throughout. Graves has come a long way from fighting with his brother on everything and kidnapping Camille because he believes he loves her.
Elise has stepped into Graves's life to do a job, but along the way, the two start to connect. Will Elise remember that this is a job and control her feelings, or will the feelings take over? How will Grave handle his feelings, especially after seeing how his brother just suffered?
It is incredible how the characters all have a connection in some way. I enjoyed the glimpses of Bartholomew and can't wait to read his story next.
Oh, I enjoyed this conclusion!
Camille walked away from Cauldron, something he never expected, what started out as stalking enemies has now turn them both to lovers. Cauldron has never been in love before and will find any excuse to push Camille away. They both did not expect this connection.
Will Cauldron allow the only woman to ever make him feel walk away for good? The woman who was able to get him to reunite with his brother and have a chat with his father. What will her walking away do to him?
Although Camille and Cauldron are the main characters, we also get a glimpse of Grave and Elise throughout. Graves has come a long way from fighting with his brother on everything and kidnapping Camille because he believes he loves her.
Elise has stepped into Graves's life to do a job, but along the way, the two start to connect. Will Elise remember that this is a job and control her feelings, or will the feelings take over? How will Grave handle his feelings, especially after seeing how his brother just suffered?
It is incredible how the characters all have a connection in some way. I enjoyed the glimpses of Bartholomew and can't wait to read his story next.
October 27, 2022
First, I have to say I really enjoyed this conclusion to this series so worth the wait. I absolutely loved the intro of Bartholomew on with Camile, I will admit I completely forgot all about Cauldron & Grave Bartholomew was something else that's for sure. Even though I really enjoyed the way this series ended, it was kinda hard to follow, with all the different POV at play. As far as Camille and Cauldron I wanted to see him grovel after what he put Camille though. I felt Camille didn't make him suffer enough for my liking. Elise and Graves was another story it felt rushed but I'm glad Graves and Elise story didn't get dragged out into another trilogy. I however can't wait to see what going to happen with Bartholomew. As always my reviews are totally voluntarily and no monetary compensation was received and the opinions I have expressed are completely my own.
June 11, 2024
In Penelope Sky's "Harder Betrayal", the unexpected trajectory of Camille and Cauldron's relationship after the conclusion of "Better Man" was nothing short of captivating. Each moment held me spellbound, with the tension-filled dynamic between them creating a magnetic pull. The way Cauldron relentlessly fights for Camille is reminiscent of the high-stakes emotional drama that Sky is renowned for.
The intriguing relationship that unfolds between Camille and Grave adds another layer to this complex narrative. Despite their rocky start, their connection evolves in ways that are unpredictable yet profoundly satisfying.
One of Sky's remarkable talents lies in her ability to craft characters who initially seem unsympathetic, only to have them evolve into figures you can't help but adore by the series' end. This technique is on full display in "Harder Betrayal", cementing its place as one of my all-time favorite trilogies.
I wholeheartedly endorse not just this book, but every word penned by Sky. Her masterful storytelling leaves readers yearning for more, myself included. I am particularly excited about what she has planned for Bartholomew - a character I am already fond of. If you're seeking an immersive reading experience filled with love, conflict and redemption, look no further than "Harder Betrayal".
The intriguing relationship that unfolds between Camille and Grave adds another layer to this complex narrative. Despite their rocky start, their connection evolves in ways that are unpredictable yet profoundly satisfying.
One of Sky's remarkable talents lies in her ability to craft characters who initially seem unsympathetic, only to have them evolve into figures you can't help but adore by the series' end. This technique is on full display in "Harder Betrayal", cementing its place as one of my all-time favorite trilogies.
I wholeheartedly endorse not just this book, but every word penned by Sky. Her masterful storytelling leaves readers yearning for more, myself included. I am particularly excited about what she has planned for Bartholomew - a character I am already fond of. If you're seeking an immersive reading experience filled with love, conflict and redemption, look no further than "Harder Betrayal".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2023
Cheese and Rice that was a lot!
Book 3 brings conclusion to most of the storylines in this series. I do think this trilogy could have easily been condensed into a duet. Grace needed his own book to focus on his character arc more.
While there were some flaws in the structure of the trilogy, the third book managed to captivate me the most, especially with the evolving relationship between Grave and Camille. The inclusion of other characters brought both enjoyment and frustration, leaving me yearning for a more comprehensive epilogue. I do not even read epilogues half the time but I really needed one here.
Full review at https://bookcaseandcoffee.com
Book 3 brings conclusion to most of the storylines in this series. I do think this trilogy could have easily been condensed into a duet. Grace needed his own book to focus on his character arc more.
While there were some flaws in the structure of the trilogy, the third book managed to captivate me the most, especially with the evolving relationship between Grave and Camille. The inclusion of other characters brought both enjoyment and frustration, leaving me yearning for a more comprehensive epilogue. I do not even read epilogues half the time but I really needed one here.
Full review at https://bookcaseandcoffee.com
October 29, 2022
Great series
Loved this ❤ series It has kept me engrossed till the end Cauldron and Camille are just so good together their chemistry is so hot and then there is Grave and Elise both men are so stubborn and dominant but their women are more than a match for them giving as good as their given These men will give you goosebumps so dive in and get acquainted with them and their ladies , Im looking forward to Barthomley he is going to be another hot Alpha 🔥 with his own story cannot wait until January
Loved this ❤ series It has kept me engrossed till the end Cauldron and Camille are just so good together their chemistry is so hot and then there is Grave and Elise both men are so stubborn and dominant but their women are more than a match for them giving as good as their given These men will give you goosebumps so dive in and get acquainted with them and their ladies , Im looking forward to Barthomley he is going to be another hot Alpha 🔥 with his own story cannot wait until January
October 25, 2022
I just knew she was going to go the route she did with Camille and Cauldron after the end of Better Man! I loved every single second of it! The push and pull between the two of them, the fight Cauldron puts up for her. Penelope Sky level angst at its finest. I love the relationship she created between Camille and Grave, definitely not one you would have seen coming given their beginning. Something that Penelope does that I always love is that she can give you a character that you just hate, but end the series with you loving them. This trilogy quickly became a favorite and I highly recommend it and all of her words! Now I can’t wait to see what she does with Bartholomew because I already love that guy.
October 26, 2022
What a page turner, I’m in love with all 3 men in this book ! Cauldron doesn’t know which way to turn he’s so heartbroken but at least he learns his lesson and sorts himself out finally because Camille is simply perfect in every single way possible. Camille’s relationship with Bartholomew, the hot mysterious client she’s now attached too seems to tip Cauldron in the right direction. Grave and Elise have now got their own problems that need to be worked through but Grave typically does the wrong thing and has to try and put it right.
I would love to see how the brothers new ventures go and what they end up doing, I also can’t wait to hear more about the gorgeous Bartholomew.
This really is Penelope Sky at her very best
I would love to see how the brothers new ventures go and what they end up doing, I also can’t wait to hear more about the gorgeous Bartholomew.
This really is Penelope Sky at her very best
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2022
The Lesser series comes to an end with Harder Betrayal. As the title mentions there is betrayal, learning, reuniting, and love all wrapped up in this page turner of a story. Camille and Cauldron have a relationship to work on and learn what each other wants rather than what they think the other thinks they want. While Grave and Elise learn how to move forward in their relationship. Hopefully we will get to see more of these two couples in a future series.
October 24, 2022
I hate Cauldron for what he does to Camille. He continues to ignore her instead to fight for what he had. But then she got help from an unexpected corner Grave. He helped her set up her things that was really sweet of him 😍. He and Elise are also perfect for each other but he desides to be an asshole when she confessed her feelings for him. I am glad in the end they worked it tru and are finaly back together! I would love to read the epilogues from Grave and Elise and what about her children, how did they meet and how they are as a family?? So sad to see the story is done for these two chapters. We would love to hear a bit more from them! Also i am glad that Cauldron did fight for Camille in the end and she was right to make him sweat for it! So glad to hear they have their hea and got married! 😍 thank you Penelope again for such an amazing trilogy to write! I loved it 🥰🥰🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2022
What can I say about my favorite author and her wonderful books! Well, I think, I just said it...lol. I started reading her books when she first wrote the Button series. And every since then, I have read almost everyone after that. Yes there are a few I have missed, but will eventually read once I get some time on my hands. But for now, I will stick with this. Yes, all the books that I have read have the scene set in Italy, France and a few other parts in Europe. But hey, she most love it over there. So why not set the scene of her books over there. And as always, if you are looking for another great read by a great author then give Penelope Sky's books a try.
October 26, 2022
Brothers and Their Lovers
Was looking forward to Cauldron and Camille’s story and then got more with Grave and Elise! Was thrilled that Camille made Cauldron work and prove how much he loved her. Love Camilles’s strength and how she stood up to Bartholomew, just like she did with Cauldron and Grave. Beauty and brains!! Elise had the same no nonsense attitude. She gave Grave a run for his money.
Penelope, I always find your references to other stories great! I got a big smile when Camille made the button comment. Looking forward to reading Bartholomew’s story.
Was looking forward to Cauldron and Camille’s story and then got more with Grave and Elise! Was thrilled that Camille made Cauldron work and prove how much he loved her. Love Camilles’s strength and how she stood up to Bartholomew, just like she did with Cauldron and Grave. Beauty and brains!! Elise had the same no nonsense attitude. She gave Grave a run for his money.
Penelope, I always find your references to other stories great! I got a big smile when Camille made the button comment. Looking forward to reading Bartholomew’s story.
October 27, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is the conclusion of Cauldron and Camilles love story. This book imo gave more insight into Cauldrons thoughts about Camille, his work and his family relationships. It also introduced Bartholomew into the mix as the ruthless drug lord that uses Camille as a distraction in his business. Would love to see a Grave and Elise book soon. This trilogy is so worth the read! Well done Penelope Sky, Well done!
October 28, 2022
this series is just perfect! Everyone was waiting for this book to come out to find out what Cauldron was going to do after the crazy ending of Better Man (book 2 in the series). What a whirlwind Camille and Cauldron go through. I loved how she forged ahead with her life even though she still suffered from what Cauldron did.
October 25, 2022
This is the last book in the series.Cauldron break up with Camile.She goes to Graves and stay with him for two weeks.He help's her with apartment and job,but she doesn't take the job. Camile return to her old profession. Cauldron realises that he is miserable without her ,he tries to get her back but she doesn't want to forgive him.He buy her contact from Bartholomew.When I started reading I couldn't put it down.Penelope Sky is magnifysent and amazing writer.I cannot wait to read more of there books.Keep up the great work.You should definitely read this book.Can't wait for the next book.
October 26, 2022
Loved, loved, loved reading the fabulous and fantastic third book in the Lesser Trilogy by the phenomenal author, Penelope Sky. Cauldron breaks Camille's heart in a million pieces, Graves helps Camille, and Elise does the unthinkable in Graves book. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written with captivating characters full of romance & suspense, and a riveting must read love story. Can't wait to read Bartholomew's story!
October 28, 2022
I loved this trilogy. From the rockiness, the change in types of relationships between characters, to the love, and even the drama. I wish it wouldn’t have ended so quickly. I want to know all the things and I was left wanting so much more! Will definitely read again.
October 31, 2022
3.5
I loved the first two books in this series, but to my dismay this book did not live up to my expectations.
Everything felt a bit safe and predictable, which was quite the contrast from the first two books.
A good read all the same. I just wish the Alphas in this series had carried that persona through to the third book.
I loved the first two books in this series, but to my dismay this book did not live up to my expectations.
Everything felt a bit safe and predictable, which was quite the contrast from the first two books.
A good read all the same. I just wish the Alphas in this series had carried that persona through to the third book.
October 24, 2022
After how the previous book ended I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this and read what Cauldron was going to do and if he would fight for Camille.
The twist and turns in this story was mind blowing. I couldn’t put the book down and was good to see Grave and Cauldron start to get on.
Bartholomew I think stole the story for me and can’t wait to read his story next.
This book keeps you gripped and I really didn’t want this to end.
The twist and turns in this story was mind blowing. I couldn’t put the book down and was good to see Grave and Cauldron start to get on.
Bartholomew I think stole the story for me and can’t wait to read his story next.
This book keeps you gripped and I really didn’t want this to end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2022
I love how Penelope made these relationships show the men hurting just as much as the women and to show how strong Camille and Elise are when they need to be and hold their ground until the men prove themsleves. The fact the brothers can work out their relationship and Camille and Grave can put their past behind them as well makes the reader feel the love they all have for each other. Hope there will be more about Elise and Grave.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2022
I absolutely adored this book. I loved how Cauldron and Camille story ended. I adored how strong and “useful” Camille became. She was always determined and I loved that she did back down and thought things through. Developing her friendships throughout the book was definitely entertaining. And to watch Cauldron fall to his knees and humble himself was a great turn on things. Elise and Graves was another story 🤦🏾♀️. It was rushed. Overall this was a great book.
July 15, 2023
the way i consumed this series in a day...
October 25, 2022
Yaaaaasss Penelope!
Loved this series! I love her books she never fails me. As soon as I start I can’t put it down till I’m done. Hands down the best Author! Buy all her series and you will love them all.
Loved this series! I love her books she never fails me. As soon as I start I can’t put it down till I’m done. Hands down the best Author! Buy all her series and you will love them all.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews