After a narrow escape from disaster’s cold grip, the battered crew of Sneaky Lass have paid a hefty price, one that weighs on them fiercely. None more than Bennett Holt.
Torn between two loves; his ship, Sneaky Lass, and the enigmatic Jane Ables, Bennett is forced to face who he is as a man when he is not wearing the mask of a captain. A man so mired by the past that he has only ever looked back through the bottom of a bottle of liquor.
Trust does not come easily for the guarded Jane Ables, a lifetime of abuse has locked her emotions down tightly. Bennett is the one person who has the power to coax them free of her, if only she didn’t see ghosts from her past writhing within him.
Playing the part of captain and sailor by day, in the shadows of night they can lay their secrets bare as they attempt to unravel the emotions that swim in the tumultuous waters between them.
But a pirate’s bounty is not built on tales of love and loss, and life aboard Sneaky Lass does not pause for Bennett and Jane to figure things out.
The fury of Captain Gates builds under the humiliation of the recent escape of Bennett Holt and Jane Ables. He redoubles the efforts of his naval ship, Three Queens, to hunting them and ending his vendetta once and for all.
Book 3 in the Silver Locket Series Brought the Heat! The slow burn has paid off, The spice between Bennett and Jane!!!
Jane and Bennett are now not only trying to navigate a relationship on the sneaky lass but also trying to find the balance between captain and crew. We also get Michaels Pov and in turn we get more insight to Jane and Michaels relationship as children.
I don't want to give away any spoilers because this whole book is filled with them. There is just so much that happens in this book! I will just say that this book was well worth the wait! and we finally Get to see what's in the Locket!!!!
This series is slept on and it’s a fucking shame. It is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Kennedy Sutton’s writing is beautiful, you feel like you’re there experiencing everything first hand, and her characters sink into your soul and linger long after you’re done reading.
Kennedy doesn't disappoint with the next installment of the silverlocket series. The way she has me completely connected to the characters. I'm addicted and can not wait for the next one!
Cry to Cruel Gods left me absolutely breathless. Sutton’s writing is so vivid you don’t feel like you’re reading, you feel like you’ve stepped onto the deck yourself, watching every mistake, every victory, every heartbreak unfold.
Jane is a force in this book. Fierce, hurting, determined… she feels painfully real and I adored her even more for the cracks she tries so hard to hide. Bennett tested my patience more than once, but his perspective at the end hit me straight in the chest and made all his choices click into place. I only wish we got more of his mind.
Michael’s POV was such an unexpected gift. It deepened the world and added a quiet, devastating layer that stayed with me long after I closed the book.
This installment is packed with emotion, danger and messy love... and somehow still manages to feel deeply intimate. It doesn’t just continue the story, it elevates it.
Now I’ll be counting the days until I read book four, because this one left me beautifully ruined in the best way.
I have devoured this series, and this book was so action-packed and beautifully written! This book was so full of emotion and I'm so drawn to Kennedy Sutton's writing. I loved the dual POVs for the further background into Jane and her brother. Super excited for the next book since this book set up so much to come!
I received an audio copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book had so much action. It also gave a perspective of Jane’s brother which added a lot to the story. The more the story develops the more invested I become. Can’t wait to read book 4.
I...don't have full sentences to say. This is my favorite pirate series and every single one takes my breath away. Jane Ables is one of my favorite FMCs and her crew (and Captain) are the best
This series has me in a chokehold, and I will go down this ship. I have too much a book hangover to say anything else. If you need me, I will be hiding beneath a blanket until book 4 comes out.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In a lot of ways, this book feels like the first in a new series. In fact, each book in this series has had a totally different vibe than the one before it. The characters remain the same, they're emotionally complicated and feel very real. The reactions to things never feel forced.
Book one really explored Jane running away. Book two really explored Jane finding herself again. I think this book is about love and navigating how... complicated it can be. Kennedy Sutton has written a beautiful exploration of love in spite of flaws and where lines should be drawn within this riveting pirate adventure.
And the dual POV with the mirroring of Jane's past through the lens of her brother? Really well done.
I have absolutely loved The Silver Locket series since book one, The Sneaky Lass. Kennedy's writing is so beautiful I feel as if I'm watching every detail happen right in front of me, as if I'm there - a no-name pirate on the ship privy to every detail and every conversation.
Bennett and Jane's love story has been a slow burn since the beginning, but things get nice and spicy in the third book! But Jane and Bennett still struggle to find their footing as lovers as well as Captain and pirate.
Jane's brother Michael reappears in this book and we learn more of his story. We also meet new characters who have depth and really add to the overall story so beautifully. Hugh's heartbreak continues and it's a struggle to "watch".
Vengeance is found by Jane but she must deal with the consequences as well. This threatens to ruin Jane and Bennett, as they continue to struggle in their different roles on the ship and in the bedroom.
This is my favorite of the books in the series, so far, and I know the next book, Witch or Bloom is also going to be amazing!!
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this title, and was really looking forward to devouring it in a weekend. Real life intervened, however, and delayed both my reading of Cry to Cruel Gods and my reviewing. If you've enjoyed the prior titles in the series (as I have) you won't want to make the same mistake!
The newest installment in the continuing Silver Locket saga has Captain Bennett Holt and his love interest/ second mate Jane Ables trying to gain their footing after the traumatic events of book two - while still attempting to evade the Three Queens, the king's ship that hunts them. Life is never quiet for long for the couple, and this episode in their journey is no exception.
There is a parallel storyline regarding Jane's brother Michael (a surgeon on the Three Queens) and his love Eddie interwoven with Jane and Bennett's tale. It was emotional and very well done, with the threat of doom hanging over every word. While this subplot did not end up intersecting with the main plotline, as I expected it would, the ground has clearly been laid for future interactions. Given what has been setup so far, I have no doubt the culmination will be worth the wait.
As I've mentioned in other reviews for this series, the storytelling has to be very strong to lure me away from the traditional romance genre I usually prefer - and to make me enjoy a cliffhanger ending without a defined HEA. Cry to Cruel Gods keeps up the expectations of its predecessors in this way, and I'm looking forward to the next title, Witch and Bloom, to discover what happens next!
Reasons I enjoyed this book: Action-packed; Entertaining; Great world building; Original; Page-turner; Wonderful characters!
Kennedy Sutton has done it again! Cry to Cruel Gods had me at the edge of my seat the whole way through. I got to know already loved characters better I love them all the more. I also got to meet new characters and add them to the growing list of a fictional family I've come to know and love.
there were so many heartwarming and heartbreaking moments in this book. So much growth and understanding in both character development and plot. You really see Jane come into her own in this book. where I saw her strength grow in the last book she comes even further in this one. Not only is she becoming physically stronger she is starting to slowly heal the wounds she's carried most of her life. She has a strength I envy and admire. She's no damsel in distress.
If you are hesitating I'm starting this series I implore you hesitate no longer and pick this series up. I had never read a pirate story before, and I honestly hadn't considered it until now. I am so invested in this series and in every character within its pages. Kennedy is a master storyteller and I truly believe she will go far and her career as an author. I look forward to not only reading the next installments of the Silver Locket series, but in seeing Kennedy's success as she moves forward.
First off, Kennedy Sutton again had knocked it out of the park with this book series. So, while trying not to give spoilers, here are my thoughts. 1. The emotions that she gives the characters speak to me as the reader. I feel their pain, happiness, sorrow, all of it. If I had to compare this series to anything, it would be the adult version of Mulan if she was a pirate 2. I did feel like this book could have been 2 books. The first part of the book opens a potential story plot for Bennett, and to me, it was just glanced over when the whole book could have been dealing with Bennetts' past. The second part was the ending. While I enjoyed how it was written, a whole book could have covered the experiences in the last chapters and made for an epic book with more details. 3. Lastly, I have to say that I really appreciate that this series includes tragedy as a theme. Thank you for keeping me on my toes with the unexpected.
What more can I say than this author wins every single time. Historical, beautiful, LGTB positive romance with tasteful spice. The author has captured my attention from the very start of this series and I’ll read every book she publishes.
Jane and Bennett are finally together. What now? Simply put, quite a lot. Jane’s character development shines throughout Cry to Cruel Gods. She is becoming the hero and learning how to be in that position, one she’d never dared to dream of being in. Bennett continues to be himself, a person I love, but in this one, a person I also detested. I may have wished slight harm to befall him in a certain scene.
And then we get another POV, Jane’s brother. We learn more about him and the great love of his life. With more new characters and ghosts of existing ones, I was woven more deeply into this truly breathtaking story.
I’m on my toes, waiting to see what is next up in book 4.
*I was given an advance e-copy of this book for an honest review*
While I did enjoy this book it wasn’t my favorite so far. I know that Jane and Ben’s backstories involve more trauma than anyone should have to know, there was a point where I did feel like their trauma became too monotonous.
Michael’s pov was nice to break that up and I really did enjoy his chapters. Like many others probably do, I have theories.
I also guessed the ending which was bit of a surprise to me. And by the end I was really glad that Jane and Ben hashed out a few things- trauma sharing. It helped clear some air between them. And I’m glad that Jane is starting to get to a point of standing up for herself, sticking firm to her beliefs, and really taking charge.
Overall another fantastic addition to the Sneaky Lass series.
I had a tough time rating this one. It wasn’t as amazing as the first two, so I initially thought to give it 4 stars. But after careful consideration, I realized that this books was still spectacular and deserved 5 stars. If I could, I’d change my rating of the other two books to 6 stars to account for this discrepancy in my rating system.
This book was a bit slower and felt like it dragged at certain parts. But I appreciated the story and that we got to know the characters more. I almost stopped reading halfway through because I felt like it reached a good—happy stopping point. And with still a hefty amount of the book left, I knew things were going to take a downward turn. But of course, I couldn’t stop, things got crazy again, and now I’m eager to start the next book.
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
After the hardship of the last book, I was so glad to see Jane finally get some happiness and sticking up for herself. I have never been so invested in the life of a fictional character, but Jane's growth is one of the best character developments I have ever read. Each person in this book feels so real, which is a testement to Kennedy's writing.
I would have liked a bit more of Michael and his situation. It felt a bit rushed towards the end.
I cannot wait for the next installment and recommend this series to anyone who enjoys pirates, romance and complex characters.
Please check trigger warnings, are there are some very intense scenes and situations.
A cry to Cruel Gods is book three in the Silver’s Locket series by Kennedy Sutton. And man… this is one of my absolute favorite series I’ve read. Like I said before she does not disappoint!!
I love how you see more with Jane and Bennett’s relationship. The love between them, trying to find the point between Captain and Crew, etc.
I really enjoyed how the chapters switched from one person’s view to another person’s view. You end up learning so much more about the characters and some back history.
But I am so excited to finally find out the biggest secret of the locket! These books always leaving you hanging and wanting more. So I can not wait to read the next one!!
Kennedy Sutton is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Continuing the saga of Jane and Bennett, their love isn't easy but it is very real. I loved getting to know more of Janes brother Michael. Hugh just plain breaks my heart. The final chapters kept me up all night because I simply could not put the book down. I won't go into what exactly happens because I don't want to spoil it but it is epic and scary and has me eager to read the next book because I am so invested in these characters, flaws and all.
These stories on the high seas aboard the Sneaky Lass enthrall me! The crew is dealing with the loss of Mickey and sets about to sell their treasures. Jane and Bennett try to balance life at sea and life at port. Along the way they pick up Jon. He was such a welcome addition to the story for me.
Jane’s brother Michael’s story is told. I don’t know how Kennedy continues to make me fall in love with these characters.
Every book Jane becomes more of a badass. I lover her strength and growth!
Life, love, and adventure this book has it all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Just like the first two books this one is engaging and well paced.
I knew almost from the first time he was introduced that Eddie would be killed in this book, but it didn't make it any less heart-wrenching.
I love seeing the continued development of Jane's character and seeing her embracing her traumas and her devils. It was nice that Jane and Ben had some time to just be with each other and that they were both learning to trust the other. There was a lot of backstory for them both in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Aptly named Cry To Cruel Gods is the feeling of after your heart is ripped out of your chest and you thinks it over but then it gets stepped on. The trauma just keeps going. We follow Jane and Bennett after they reunite from the events of Feathers at Sea, all seems well till it isn’t. Jane is still healing from the trauma she experienced in FaS and accepting Bennett as her lover. We get to see more of her brother Michael and his life after helping her escape hanging. Trauma and tragedy around every corner. Highly recommend you keep some tissues at hand.
Possibly my favorite book of the series so far! Jane is strong as ever and Bennett's acceptance and love for her is just so perfect.
I loved seeing Michael's POV and getting a peek into his story as well.
And yet again, Kennedy Sutton delivers a story that has me in tears, my heart in my throat, and leaves me wanting to know what happens next! This has quickly become one of my favorite series and one I will definitely be rereading.
I have been enjoying this series. I love getting to know the characters as they get to know each other. I was hoping for smooth sailing for the crew of the Sneaky Lass after the tragic loss of Micky Compton but alas that is not to be. I liked we got another POV, this book. I find her brothers forbidden love so heartbreaking.
"Oh, my beautiful, vengeful, dangerous snake of a lover. I would have you no other way." One of my favorite things about Kennedy's books is that her characters love their significant others for exactly who they are, and not in spite of their flaws. This books is tender and spicy in all the right ways!
This series is addicting. I'm not generally a fan of reading series that are not finished but I cannot help myself with this one! The storyline is great with just enough romance to keep it interesting but not overpowering. The characters easily come alive through the authors writing and the details enhance the story. Impatiently patiently waiting for the next one!
Look, I understand that the world is an unrelentingly bleak place, where people do terrible things to each other. I read to escape that reality. This book insists on delving into the cruelty every other page, and I can’t handle it anymore. The book is written fine, but it’s not for me. The charms of Jane and Bennet have worn off and I’m not going to continue the series.
This series has me in a chokehold!! I’m rooting for Jane so much! So much sadness has happened and you get a little silver lining only to be hit again and crying all over again! I’m so ready to read book 4 and see what happens with Jane and Bennett and all the other amazing characters in this book!!
I absolutely loved learning about Michael in this book! But as I’ve learned to expect I also had my heart broken in the most sweet and sad way possible. This book is slightly less adventurous than the last but there is still adventure to be had! You spend more time getting to know new characters and the characters you’ve already come to love. Now, on to the next adventure!
Where the last two books in the series are slow burn, here now is all the spicy action! A love letter to the fans, finally we get some answers and a moment to celebrate hard-won victories. Ms. Sutton continues to astound me with her understanding of human complexity.