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Was I Ever #2
Was I Ever Real
Thirteen years ago, I ran away from a cult, Sacro Nuntio, and became Lenix Taylor.
Everyone knows me as a free spirit. Always up for a good time but never the one to be tied down. Except no one knows about the horrible sins rotting in my past. Or how I killed the leader of Sacro Nuntio–my father–in cold blood.
I’m comfortable in my life of secrets and lies. But the past never stays where it should for long.
Now, after all this time, my brother has found me and is threatening to drag me back to punish me for my crime.
Escaping from that life was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But staying free proves more difficult than expected when it involves the only person powerful enough to protect me—Connor Maxwell.
He’s Noxport’s most feared crime boss, and also the most arrogant, frustrating man I’ve ever met.
Despite his infuriating grins and incessant need to call me darling, I strike a deal with him, and seal my fate to his.
Before long, I will need to choose between the devil I know and the devil I married.
*Was I Ever Real is the explosive second installment in the “Was I Ever” series. An enemies to lovers, dark romance with a guaranteed HEA. While it can be read as a standalone, characters and events will be better appreciated if the series is read in order. It has mature situations and themes which may be considered triggers for some. Reader discretion is advised.*
Everyone knows me as a free spirit. Always up for a good time but never the one to be tied down. Except no one knows about the horrible sins rotting in my past. Or how I killed the leader of Sacro Nuntio–my father–in cold blood.
I’m comfortable in my life of secrets and lies. But the past never stays where it should for long.
Now, after all this time, my brother has found me and is threatening to drag me back to punish me for my crime.
Escaping from that life was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But staying free proves more difficult than expected when it involves the only person powerful enough to protect me—Connor Maxwell.
He’s Noxport’s most feared crime boss, and also the most arrogant, frustrating man I’ve ever met.
Despite his infuriating grins and incessant need to call me darling, I strike a deal with him, and seal my fate to his.
Before long, I will need to choose between the devil I know and the devil I married.
*Was I Ever Real is the explosive second installment in the “Was I Ever” series. An enemies to lovers, dark romance with a guaranteed HEA. While it can be read as a standalone, characters and events will be better appreciated if the series is read in order. It has mature situations and themes which may be considered triggers for some. Reader discretion is advised.*
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2023
180 people are currently reading
6303 people want to read
About the author
Naomi Loud
9 books555 followersWriter, occasional poet, and full-time witch, Naomi Loud is known for her angsty and heartfelt stories. Whether it be dark romance or contemporary, she loves to explore the complexities of the human condition and find the common thread that connects us all. Naomi lives in Montreal, Canada, with her husband and three cats, but secretly wishes she could live underwater.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
June 11, 2023
I could have sworn I was only reading for an hour before I realized I just finished the entire thing and a lot more time had passed than I thought… Whoops! I really love how unique this story is. It had a lot of well loved tropes and plot points but still managed to stand out on its own.
Connor and Lenix were great characters and they fit together so perfectly. Lenix was inspiring. She ran away from a cult at sixteen and created a new life for herself. She struggled with her past at times but she didn’t let that stop her from being the strong, confident woman she was. Also, can we talk about that office scene because that was chef’s kiss spice. It’s going to be living rent free in my brain for a while.
Connor was just as great to read about. He was very charming but still dark and very morally grey (just how I like them). The “touch her and you die” vibes were insane. I loved how vulnerable Connor became around Lenix. It was a long time coming with a lot of resistance but it satisfying once they got there. She really needed someone like him to help soften her hardened shell without trying to change who she was. He was possessive and bossy but also knew when to let her be and do what she wanted.
I really enjoyed the entire book but the last part really made it for me. It was exactly what the story needed. I hate when things feel rushed or get wrapped up too quickly but that wasn’t the case here. They took their time because there was more that needed to be developed still and I got to enjoy seeing those moments play out. The whole story was very well developed and the way they resolved everything was perfect.
Also her cat. That’s it, I just love cats.
This was a really enjoyable dark romance. It was original, the writing was great, the spice was hot, it had marriage of convenience, some of my new favourite characters, a cult, great banter and dynamics, angst, and so much more. This author is quickly becoming a must read for me and I can’t wait to read what happens in the next book!
*ARC*
Connor and Lenix were great characters and they fit together so perfectly. Lenix was inspiring. She ran away from a cult at sixteen and created a new life for herself. She struggled with her past at times but she didn’t let that stop her from being the strong, confident woman she was. Also, can we talk about that office scene because that was chef’s kiss spice. It’s going to be living rent free in my brain for a while.
Connor was just as great to read about. He was very charming but still dark and very morally grey (just how I like them). The “touch her and you die” vibes were insane. I loved how vulnerable Connor became around Lenix. It was a long time coming with a lot of resistance but it satisfying once they got there. She really needed someone like him to help soften her hardened shell without trying to change who she was. He was possessive and bossy but also knew when to let her be and do what she wanted.
I really enjoyed the entire book but the last part really made it for me. It was exactly what the story needed. I hate when things feel rushed or get wrapped up too quickly but that wasn’t the case here. They took their time because there was more that needed to be developed still and I got to enjoy seeing those moments play out. The whole story was very well developed and the way they resolved everything was perfect.
Also her cat. That’s it, I just love cats.
This was a really enjoyable dark romance. It was original, the writing was great, the spice was hot, it had marriage of convenience, some of my new favourite characters, a cult, great banter and dynamics, angst, and so much more. This author is quickly becoming a must read for me and I can’t wait to read what happens in the next book!
*ARC*
February 6, 2023
All. The. Fucking. Stars. Special thank you to the lovely Naomi Loud for choosing me for her ARC team in exchange for this honest review. I seriously need more “I’ll burn the world for you after I kill everyone in it” heroes in my books. It never gets old to me! Throw in a dash of “my wife” and a pinch of “get on the fucking bed” and I’m done for! Connor and Lenix are everything. And I’ll be the first to admit that after reading the first book, I wasn’t so sure that I would love them, both together and separately, and I do love to be proved wrong!
But I digress. Connor and Lenix are up to their old tricks, he loves irritating her and she well, gets irritated by him. When they’re thrown together while planning his birthday party, they stumble into a palm reader’s tent, and get quite the odd reading. Meanwhile, Lenix is finding out that her past isn’t staying put, and she needs Connor’s help, much to his delight.
Turns out, these two have a delicious secret of their own, and when Connor moves her into his house and on his arm, it comes out for the world to see. The ghosts from Lenix’s past are catching up to her, and when they do, Connor makes good on every dark and demented promise he made to her when he swore to keep her safe. No one does vengeance quite like Connor Maxwell, let me tell you.
“ “Good. And in the meantime I’m going to rip Morrisey’s fucking heart out of his chest,” he growls. “You can’t just kill the Governor of California,” I say half-heartedly. His eyes darken into something lethal—powerful. “He was a dead man walking the moment he touched my fucking wife,” he rasps.”
So yes, I devoured this book and absolutely loved every single word. Naomi Loud is magical and I am here for it! Lenix, though guarded and HELLA stubborn, is fierce and very special to me. And Connor. Well what else can I say? One of my new favorite heroes ever! This story fed something deep in my soul, and I cannot WAIT for Lucy and Bastian’s story. Something tells me he’s even more unhinged than Connor!!!!
But I digress. Connor and Lenix are up to their old tricks, he loves irritating her and she well, gets irritated by him. When they’re thrown together while planning his birthday party, they stumble into a palm reader’s tent, and get quite the odd reading. Meanwhile, Lenix is finding out that her past isn’t staying put, and she needs Connor’s help, much to his delight.
Turns out, these two have a delicious secret of their own, and when Connor moves her into his house and on his arm, it comes out for the world to see. The ghosts from Lenix’s past are catching up to her, and when they do, Connor makes good on every dark and demented promise he made to her when he swore to keep her safe. No one does vengeance quite like Connor Maxwell, let me tell you.
“ “Good. And in the meantime I’m going to rip Morrisey’s fucking heart out of his chest,” he growls. “You can’t just kill the Governor of California,” I say half-heartedly. His eyes darken into something lethal—powerful. “He was a dead man walking the moment he touched my fucking wife,” he rasps.”
So yes, I devoured this book and absolutely loved every single word. Naomi Loud is magical and I am here for it! Lenix, though guarded and HELLA stubborn, is fierce and very special to me. And Connor. Well what else can I say? One of my new favorite heroes ever! This story fed something deep in my soul, and I cannot WAIT for Lucy and Bastian’s story. Something tells me he’s even more unhinged than Connor!!!!
February 25, 2023
this book was absolutely incredible. even better than book 1 and i wasn’t expecting that at all since book 1 blew me away.
i was lucky enough to get an arc of this one as well and connor might be one of my fave book men ever.
this book has some great moments of humor, super spicy, and just such a fantastic storyline. definitely check trigger warnings but WOW. it’s definitely one of the top books i’ve read this year so far.
lenix and connor were so hot- their story is dark but a fun ride. highly recommend.
i was lucky enough to get an arc of this one as well and connor might be one of my fave book men ever.
this book has some great moments of humor, super spicy, and just such a fantastic storyline. definitely check trigger warnings but WOW. it’s definitely one of the top books i’ve read this year so far.
lenix and connor were so hot- their story is dark but a fun ride. highly recommend.
February 18, 2023
Connor disheveled is a masterpiece, a perfect rendition of what it means to sell my soul to the devil. I’m drinking at the well of depravity, and it only leaves me wanting more.
The story of Lenix and Connor was an eruptive masterpiece. It was a thunderous storm wailing in the night, turning into a fiery cyclone before resulting in the sweetest of sunrises. The “Was I Ever” series plays with the reincarnation / soulmate trope, but I didn’t expect the delicious banter and the antagonism between the mcs. They had one of the best push-and-pulls I've read. They constantly clashed in explosions of anger and lust. Then the marriage-of-convenience and the cult trope are tossed in the mix and the result was an amazingly marvelous story.
The second half of the book had a completely different vibe than the first one. While the first half was explosive, the second one was quietly deadly. The searing angst that you feel for these characters. From the beginning, it was apparent that their lives weren’t easy. But throughout the story, the extension that their trials reached and the intensity of the pain that tormented them, made my heart ache for them.
I feel like both mcs had a god complex . The book plays a lot with the meanings of heaven, hell, and sin . It works out beautifully because Connor is the most sinful of delights. I loved him, his infuriating smirk, his cunning mind, and the devilish bomb he was. He wasn’t a good guy by any means. He was ruthless, immoral, and a psychopath. But every time he said the word “wife” I melted! Lenix was a complex heroine whose story left a mark on my heart. She was pure strength but also much more than this simple word. She rebuilt herself again and again. She found her ground and her power all on her own. She was a queen and hot af.
This book made me ache and then healed me. It was an amazing story and left me anxious to read the next book. I’ve got that feeling that the next couple will steal all my breaths.
ARC Review
Did I like it? I gift it my heart.
Would I reread it? Of course. Connor baby, missing you already.
5/5⭐
3.5/5🌶️
The story of Lenix and Connor was an eruptive masterpiece. It was a thunderous storm wailing in the night, turning into a fiery cyclone before resulting in the sweetest of sunrises. The “Was I Ever” series plays with the reincarnation / soulmate trope, but I didn’t expect the delicious banter and the antagonism between the mcs. They had one of the best push-and-pulls I've read. They constantly clashed in explosions of anger and lust. Then the marriage-of-convenience and the cult trope are tossed in the mix and the result was an amazingly marvelous story.
The second half of the book had a completely different vibe than the first one. While the first half was explosive, the second one was quietly deadly. The searing angst that you feel for these characters. From the beginning, it was apparent that their lives weren’t easy. But throughout the story, the extension that their trials reached and the intensity of the pain that tormented them, made my heart ache for them.
I feel like both mcs had a god complex . The book plays a lot with the meanings of heaven, hell, and sin . It works out beautifully because Connor is the most sinful of delights. I loved him, his infuriating smirk, his cunning mind, and the devilish bomb he was. He wasn’t a good guy by any means. He was ruthless, immoral, and a psychopath. But every time he said the word “wife” I melted! Lenix was a complex heroine whose story left a mark on my heart. She was pure strength but also much more than this simple word. She rebuilt herself again and again. She found her ground and her power all on her own. She was a queen and hot af.
This book made me ache and then healed me. It was an amazing story and left me anxious to read the next book. I’ve got that feeling that the next couple will steal all my breaths.
ARC Review
Did I like it? I gift it my heart.
Would I reread it? Of course. Connor baby, missing you already.
5/5⭐
3.5/5🌶️
September 13, 2025
♾️⭐️
I don’t know how but Naomi loud just captures my whole heart by the time I finish her books
Like I didn’t think I would like this book but she made me fall in love with this book
This book was not very emotional or had the reincarnation aspect like the last book
But what connection they had made so much sense the birth mark “her lifeline is in your palm” everything was so beautiful
Connor was crazy unhinged with his big ass mansion and moustache
He was also so funny the way he explodes and is just plain aggressive to everyone but Lenix is so sweet
Lenix my super badass fiery girl I loved her so much
Her emotions were so raw and relatable I loved how much hard time she gave Connor
The way she made him kneel also the slapping scenes were so hot
I don’t know how Naomi makes it emotional but also so freaking hot smut
Connor has such a mouth on him
His “my wife” “darling” made me swoon
I loved the Lenix got her own revenge
I love my women unhinged and maniacal I loved it!
I loved the plot with the secret societies and how they brought them down
Bastion such an interesting character from the start I just know I’m gonna love him more once I read his story
Lucy omg I love her already she’s so sweet and sad 😭
Can’t wait to read their book!
I don’t know how but Naomi loud just captures my whole heart by the time I finish her books
Like I didn’t think I would like this book but she made me fall in love with this book
This book was not very emotional or had the reincarnation aspect like the last book
But what connection they had made so much sense the birth mark “her lifeline is in your palm” everything was so beautiful
Connor was crazy unhinged with his big ass mansion and moustache
He was also so funny the way he explodes and is just plain aggressive to everyone but Lenix is so sweet
Lenix my super badass fiery girl I loved her so much
Her emotions were so raw and relatable I loved how much hard time she gave Connor
The way she made him kneel also the slapping scenes were so hot
I don’t know how Naomi makes it emotional but also so freaking hot smut
Connor has such a mouth on him
His “my wife” “darling” made me swoon
I loved the Lenix got her own revenge
I love my women unhinged and maniacal I loved it!
I loved the plot with the secret societies and how they brought them down
Bastion such an interesting character from the start I just know I’m gonna love him more once I read his story
Lucy omg I love her already she’s so sweet and sad 😭
Can’t wait to read their book!
February 22, 2023
I'm not sure what to think about this one. Just a little better than the first part, but still somehow bland.
August 23, 2024
CONNORLENIX ATE
![Profile Image for Elle ♡ [semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1521418447i%2F78060090._UY200_CR25%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 8, 2023
I almost DNF’d this, but GR has me wanting credit for my efforts so I powered through lol. I feel like there were three main characters in this book: Lenix, Connor and Connor’s mustache. It feels like his mustache was brought up a million times, but somehow it was only 24, with the first introduction referring to it as a “porn stache” so safe to say I wasn’t a fan. Eventually after the n-th time he ran his fingers over his mustache I had to Google ‘mustache’ to see if images could help me out cause at this point all I was picturing was Connor as a giant mustache lol first result was Henry Cavill and I was like “Oh, okay”.
I know at this point it seems like I gave this book 2 stars for the mustache, but I can honestly say that had nothing to do with it, it’s just honestly the only somewhat interesting thing I have to say about this book. It was not well written and the plot was random as hell with a weird never really explained paranormal/past life element to it?? Something that really annoyed me was that the damsel in distress runs to the bad guy for protection and even though she was approached multiple times by the people meaning her harm and they knew where she lived, worked and her phone number no one even once thought 🤔 “Hmm maybe she shouldn’t continue about her normal life completely unprotected”…no they were just all super surprised when she *spoilers* eventually gets kidnapped cause honestly who could’ve seen that coming???? 🙄 I also wouldn’t consider this a dark romance, it’s super tame. And I honestly can’t be bothered to say anything more about this, idk I was just left unimpressed with this one.
I know at this point it seems like I gave this book 2 stars for the mustache, but I can honestly say that had nothing to do with it, it’s just honestly the only somewhat interesting thing I have to say about this book. It was not well written and the plot was random as hell with a weird never really explained paranormal/past life element to it?? Something that really annoyed me was that the damsel in distress runs to the bad guy for protection and even though she was approached multiple times by the people meaning her harm and they knew where she lived, worked and her phone number no one even once thought 🤔 “Hmm maybe she shouldn’t continue about her normal life completely unprotected”…no they were just all super surprised when she *spoilers* eventually gets kidnapped cause honestly who could’ve seen that coming???? 🙄 I also wouldn’t consider this a dark romance, it’s super tame. And I honestly can’t be bothered to say anything more about this, idk I was just left unimpressed with this one.
March 14, 2023
This one is going to be so hard for me to write. I have been crying all evening finishing this book and I can't put into words exactly how I feel so please excuse me if this feels like a jumbled mess.
When I read the first book I wasn't as attracted to Leniux as a character as I thought I would be. I honestly started this book because of Conner and I was intrigued to see how the enemies to lovers will come to be in this book and oh my... did it unravel me and my poor heart reading this.
Reading this story feels like Naomi reached into your heart between your bones and squeezed tightly, that I lost my breath and felt the sudden ache of everything Leniux went through.
I loved everything and I hated everything at the same time and it's so complicated for me to write this in simple words. I don't think I have met an author that can describe a state of being, or a feeling so well that you can physically feel it engulf you. whether this feeling is good or bad, you feel it within you. Unfortunately for us, there is a big chunk of this story spent with Len. looking for protection and she is feeling panic and terror running away from her horrible past and it hits me so hard every time. Naomi writes her women with so much to them, that no matter where you are in your life you will connect with them and feel them and live through them and it makes you ache and bloom at the same time.
The Love she writes though, woah, it's better than any fairy tale. It's the Love we dreamed of having even if it looks so unconventional and looks different in every story with Sunny the concept of soulmates made us shake in our bones but with Len, it's the concept that makes us burn.
Everything was perfect. the imperfections and the flaws and the short temper and the fast fuse of the characters and mishaps and sassiness... it was all just perfect. there is nothing for me to say. Conner is the King of my fucking heart.
That scene with the shoes...
I will forever be crying from chapter 45 onward
I already know Lucy and Bastian are just going to be the icing on top of the cake. I can't wait for my heart to break open and shatter into many pieces again by Naomi. It is a pleasure and an honor to read something so beautiful like this one.
When I read the first book I wasn't as attracted to Leniux as a character as I thought I would be. I honestly started this book because of Conner and I was intrigued to see how the enemies to lovers will come to be in this book and oh my... did it unravel me and my poor heart reading this.
Reading this story feels like Naomi reached into your heart between your bones and squeezed tightly, that I lost my breath and felt the sudden ache of everything Leniux went through.
I loved everything and I hated everything at the same time and it's so complicated for me to write this in simple words. I don't think I have met an author that can describe a state of being, or a feeling so well that you can physically feel it engulf you. whether this feeling is good or bad, you feel it within you. Unfortunately for us, there is a big chunk of this story spent with Len. looking for protection and she is feeling panic and terror running away from her horrible past and it hits me so hard every time. Naomi writes her women with so much to them, that no matter where you are in your life you will connect with them and feel them and live through them and it makes you ache and bloom at the same time.
The Love she writes though, woah, it's better than any fairy tale. It's the Love we dreamed of having even if it looks so unconventional and looks different in every story with Sunny the concept of soulmates made us shake in our bones but with Len, it's the concept that makes us burn.
Everything was perfect. the imperfections and the flaws and the short temper and the fast fuse of the characters and mishaps and sassiness... it was all just perfect. there is nothing for me to say. Conner is the King of my fucking heart.
That scene with the shoes...
I will forever be crying from chapter 45 onward
I already know Lucy and Bastian are just going to be the icing on top of the cake. I can't wait for my heart to break open and shatter into many pieces again by Naomi. It is a pleasure and an honor to read something so beautiful like this one.
November 22, 2024
5⭐️
3.5🌶️
Naomi Loud is definitely one of my favorite authors at this point. I need everything she has ever written. The raw, captivating, heartbreaking stories she writes? You should pick one up now. I don’t care which it will be worth it.
The story between Lenix and Connor is captivating and so well written. Classic enemies to lovers, but done so beautifully that I wanted to cry from how much I adored it. The pain was there. Lenix was searching to find herself throughout the book and ends up finding herself through the pain and with the help of Connor. Lenix is so strong, the things she went through just to still be standing was astounding.
I could go on for ages but I don’t want to spoil anything which I know I will if I continue.
3.5🌶️
Naomi Loud is definitely one of my favorite authors at this point. I need everything she has ever written. The raw, captivating, heartbreaking stories she writes? You should pick one up now. I don’t care which it will be worth it.
The story between Lenix and Connor is captivating and so well written. Classic enemies to lovers, but done so beautifully that I wanted to cry from how much I adored it. The pain was there. Lenix was searching to find herself throughout the book and ends up finding herself through the pain and with the help of Connor. Lenix is so strong, the things she went through just to still be standing was astounding.
I could go on for ages but I don’t want to spoil anything which I know I will if I continue.
November 18, 2024
HOW HOW HOW are her books so good? they just keep pulling me in, its all i can think about!
ok so now i need the physical copies, and i want to reread them for the rest of my life!
the plot, the characters, the SPICE! ugh she is my new favorite author.
ZERO criticism on these books, i don't want to hear a PEEP from anyone.
also cried twice in these so yay me. i'm actually going to cry again thinking about this series ending.....i'm not ready but i also NEED TO READ THE THIRD BOOK NOWWWWWWWW
ok so now i need the physical copies, and i want to reread them for the rest of my life!
the plot, the characters, the SPICE! ugh she is my new favorite author.
ZERO criticism on these books, i don't want to hear a PEEP from anyone.
also cried twice in these so yay me. i'm actually going to cry again thinking about this series ending.....i'm not ready but i also NEED TO READ THE THIRD BOOK NOWWWWWWWW
April 2, 2024
I’ve gone into each of Naomi Louds books completely blind and man, does home girl know how to write a STORY. Connor is by FAR my favorite MMC of Naomi’s. He’s the perfect reminder that morally gray IS the best color.
I went into this one already loving Lennix’s character and she completely lived up to everything I’d hoped her book would be. Connor is MY MAAAAANS. Oh my god. How protective he is of Lennix had me in knots. And don’t get me started on him calling Lennix darling.
I am obsessed with this series and I can’t wait to read Lucy and Bastian’s book.
I went into this one already loving Lennix’s character and she completely lived up to everything I’d hoped her book would be. Connor is MY MAAAAANS. Oh my god. How protective he is of Lennix had me in knots. And don’t get me started on him calling Lennix darling.
I am obsessed with this series and I can’t wait to read Lucy and Bastian’s book.
December 15, 2024
I don’t know how Naomi continues to alter my brain chemistry with literally every book she’s ever written by here we are once again….being changed forever.
Lenix escaped a religious cult at the age of 16 and crossed paths with Connor. Years later they’re in each other’s lives again at the bar with more history between the two than what meets the eye. When Lenix’s past catches up to her she realizes she must seek refuge in the person she never wanted to have to rely on- Connor.
As both Connor and Lenix dance around each other and the feelings they could potentially have, the skeletons from Lenix’s past take the forefront and when she’s taken Connor realizes he must do anything to get her back. The horrors that Lenix endures prior to her rescue and then the brutal way she takes her freedom back were mind blowing to say the least.
I adored these two and the connection they seemed to have from the jump. I knew from the first book there was more to their relationship than what met the eye. When these two finally came to terms with their feelings for one another it was true fireworks. Seeing Connor move heaven and earth to save Lenix and also seeing Lenix’s strength through her captivity and taking her power back while still remaining true to herself and the real her was such a beautiful journey.
While this book was darker than the first it was just as deep while still having so much character development and strife between the two I could not get enough. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…. Third act kidnapping >>>>>>>>>Third act breakup all day any day.
Lenix escaped a religious cult at the age of 16 and crossed paths with Connor. Years later they’re in each other’s lives again at the bar with more history between the two than what meets the eye. When Lenix’s past catches up to her she realizes she must seek refuge in the person she never wanted to have to rely on- Connor.
As both Connor and Lenix dance around each other and the feelings they could potentially have, the skeletons from Lenix’s past take the forefront and when she’s taken Connor realizes he must do anything to get her back. The horrors that Lenix endures prior to her rescue and then the brutal way she takes her freedom back were mind blowing to say the least.
I adored these two and the connection they seemed to have from the jump. I knew from the first book there was more to their relationship than what met the eye. When these two finally came to terms with their feelings for one another it was true fireworks. Seeing Connor move heaven and earth to save Lenix and also seeing Lenix’s strength through her captivity and taking her power back while still remaining true to herself and the real her was such a beautiful journey.
While this book was darker than the first it was just as deep while still having so much character development and strife between the two I could not get enough. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…. Third act kidnapping >>>>>>>>>Third act breakup all day any day.
August 24, 2024
Pradžioj buvo įdomu, galvojau "wow, atradau naują nišą – (k)literatūrinius romanus apie religinius kultus", bet vidury istorija išsikvėpė, du pagrindiniai veikėjai aka enemies to lovers pasidarė visiški skystalai... kur dingo ta neapykanta, banteris, norėjimas vienas kitą prismaugt? Banalu seilėtis iš tos beribės meilės, kažką geriau autorė galėjo sugalvot...
February 17, 2023
Naomi Loud’s second novel is here and it’s everything I needed it to be.
We meet Lenix in Was I Ever Here, and it turns out she’s been hiding a past no one would have guessed. She escaped a religious cult and created a whole life and identity for herself.
But when that past comes back to haunt her, she turns to the one person she knows can protect her.
Connor Fucking Maxwell, everyone. I won’t lie I’ve been dying to meet him ever since I found out Naomi pictured Aaron Taylor Johnson as inspo, and the character did not disappoint.
We love a man who is willing to burn town the world for his woman. The ultimate ‘touch her and die’ hero. I absolutely adored him.
And Lenix. Oh Lenix. Our girl goes through a lot.
I love her and her fire and also everything hidden under it. Her journey isn’t easy but she comes out so much stronger in the end.
The spice is just so good in this too. Connor and Lenix have so much chemistry and I love them together and I didn’t know I was into the whole ‘my wife’ thing but I really am. Naomi writes some unforgettable scenes with these two.
And I don’t think I’ll ever get over Naomi’s writing. The way they put words together, it’s just magic. Seriously, I finish some passages and am just in awe of how masterfully they’re written. I can’t do it justice, you just have to read it.
There are some pretty dark elements in this one, so check content warnings, but I highly recommend!
We meet Lenix in Was I Ever Here, and it turns out she’s been hiding a past no one would have guessed. She escaped a religious cult and created a whole life and identity for herself.
But when that past comes back to haunt her, she turns to the one person she knows can protect her.
Connor Fucking Maxwell, everyone. I won’t lie I’ve been dying to meet him ever since I found out Naomi pictured Aaron Taylor Johnson as inspo, and the character did not disappoint.
We love a man who is willing to burn town the world for his woman. The ultimate ‘touch her and die’ hero. I absolutely adored him.
And Lenix. Oh Lenix. Our girl goes through a lot.
I love her and her fire and also everything hidden under it. Her journey isn’t easy but she comes out so much stronger in the end.
The spice is just so good in this too. Connor and Lenix have so much chemistry and I love them together and I didn’t know I was into the whole ‘my wife’ thing but I really am. Naomi writes some unforgettable scenes with these two.
And I don’t think I’ll ever get over Naomi’s writing. The way they put words together, it’s just magic. Seriously, I finish some passages and am just in awe of how masterfully they’re written. I can’t do it justice, you just have to read it.
There are some pretty dark elements in this one, so check content warnings, but I highly recommend!
February 5, 2023
WOW. I finished Connor and Lenix’ story weeks ago and I still think about them DAILY. Naomi’s writing only improved with the second installment in her dark romance, mafia series and I absolutely devoured this. Once again, Naomi manages to write about serious and difficult topics in a meaningful and memorable way. Lenix’ story was so beautifully written and weaves together perfectly with Connor’s throughout the book. Even though readers are aware of certain plot points Naomi still manages to surprise us. Connor is the mafia boss you dream about and Lenix is the absolute hottest FMC. Their relationship was SO fun to read because I love the cat and mouse dynamic. Naomi writes tension and angst so well - you’ll be dreaming of Connor saying “my wife” 😍😍😍😍
5 stars GO READ IT!!
5 stars GO READ IT!!
May 29, 2023
This book?? I'm OBSESSED. I didn't realize how fast I was powering through it until I had 1o minutes left of the book, it was just that easy to fall into the story.
I was EATING this book up and maybe it was the marriage of convenience trope or the fact that they hated each other but Connor couldn't help but become obsessed with Lenix, but I couldn't put it down. One second I was anxious about the cult and the next I was sweating with how hot the spice was🥵 like damn that was SPICY.
Some parts felt kind of anti-climatic or like we were missing information from the past and instead it was just casually mentioned? Anyways🤷🏻♀️
I can't wait for Lucy and Bastian's story cause I just KNOW it's gonna be good😏
I was EATING this book up and maybe it was the marriage of convenience trope or the fact that they hated each other but Connor couldn't help but become obsessed with Lenix, but I couldn't put it down. One second I was anxious about the cult and the next I was sweating with how hot the spice was🥵 like damn that was SPICY.
Some parts felt kind of anti-climatic or like we were missing information from the past and instead it was just casually mentioned? Anyways🤷🏻♀️
I can't wait for Lucy and Bastian's story cause I just KNOW it's gonna be good😏
Read
November 16, 2024I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this, and it’s INCREDIBLE.
Lenix and Connor are both so hot omg. The writing was just as beautiful as her first book, and I did cry several times reading this.
Also the spice?? Had me sweating. Go read this.
Merged review:
I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this, and it’s INCREDIBLE.
Lenix and Connor are both so hot omg. The writing was just as beautiful as her first book, and I did cry several times reading this.
Also the spice?? Had me sweating. Go read this.
Lenix and Connor are both so hot omg. The writing was just as beautiful as her first book, and I did cry several times reading this.
Also the spice?? Had me sweating. Go read this.
Merged review:
I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this, and it’s INCREDIBLE.
Lenix and Connor are both so hot omg. The writing was just as beautiful as her first book, and I did cry several times reading this.
Also the spice?? Had me sweating. Go read this.
March 31, 2023
Step back everyone because there's a new book boyfriend in town. Connor Maxwell is absolutely everything you could want. He's grumpy, he hates everyone, he's morally grey and he protects her when she has no one else to turn to.
Im gonna need a while to get over this man
Im gonna need a while to get over this man
March 11, 2023
3.5 rounded up. Interesting but somehow something was missing
February 18, 2023
4.75 stars 🌟
I couldn’t put this book down. I don’t even know where to start 😂 spoilers ahead!!
I can confidently say that these two are one of the hottest couples I’ve ever come across? I was in my “I want to be her and I want to be with her” era the entire time 😩 There’s that one scene I couldn’t get out of my head—when Lenix was sitting at the edge of the bed, wearing nothing but her heels and diamonds. Connor was on his knees for her making his way up her leg. Then she kept teasing him and stopped him with a heel to his chest?? FERAL I was absolutely feral. I had to pause and just scream 😂
Don’t even get me started on Connor? This is what I mean when I say I want my morally grey men to actually be morally grey. He calls Lenix Lilith and refers to himself as the devil at her feet. He’s not all talk. When he says he’s going to kill—he will. He pulled a gun to Lenix’s ex fiancée—twice—before the whole charade even started. He flayed the man who threatened her and proceeded to leave him crucified for the public. He had his entire MC ambush the commune she was taken back to, boarded up the church and lit the place on fire while listening to those who hurt her scream. I was eating that shit up the entire time 😌
It was so entertaining to watch Connor’s “my darling” slowly turn from mocking to genuine. He also gets off on calling her his “wife” 😂 I really should’ve done a tally with how many times he says it especially during sex.
No third act break up!! Their journey wasn’t easy but admitting their feelings was. Lenix has Connor wrapped around her finger for sure 😩☺️
I couldn’t put this book down. I don’t even know where to start 😂 spoilers ahead!!
I can confidently say that these two are one of the hottest couples I’ve ever come across? I was in my “I want to be her and I want to be with her” era the entire time 😩 There’s that one scene I couldn’t get out of my head—when Lenix was sitting at the edge of the bed, wearing nothing but her heels and diamonds. Connor was on his knees for her making his way up her leg. Then she kept teasing him and stopped him with a heel to his chest?? FERAL I was absolutely feral. I had to pause and just scream 😂
Don’t even get me started on Connor? This is what I mean when I say I want my morally grey men to actually be morally grey. He calls Lenix Lilith and refers to himself as the devil at her feet. He’s not all talk. When he says he’s going to kill—he will. He pulled a gun to Lenix’s ex fiancée—twice—before the whole charade even started. He flayed the man who threatened her and proceeded to leave him crucified for the public. He had his entire MC ambush the commune she was taken back to, boarded up the church and lit the place on fire while listening to those who hurt her scream. I was eating that shit up the entire time 😌
It was so entertaining to watch Connor’s “my darling” slowly turn from mocking to genuine. He also gets off on calling her his “wife” 😂 I really should’ve done a tally with how many times he says it especially during sex.
No third act break up!! Their journey wasn’t easy but admitting their feelings was. Lenix has Connor wrapped around her finger for sure 😩☺️
March 10, 2023
brb, obsessing over this book. 🖤
Finished it last night & tbh this might be one of the best fake/oops marriage books I’ve ever read. The “my wife” energy is >>>>>>>>! This man is so down bad for his “wife” I truly lost my mind reading this. Something about Connor being obsessed with prodding Lenix into a fury because he loves to watch her react to him 🫠 (& I know this sounds juvenile but I promise you, it is written unbelievably well). Plus the love confession was TOP TIER!! Like possibly my fave of all time.
Mind you, this book is spicy AF, there are dark elements/possible triggers, & a love story like no other.
Finished it last night & tbh this might be one of the best fake/oops marriage books I’ve ever read. The “my wife” energy is >>>>>>>>! This man is so down bad for his “wife” I truly lost my mind reading this. Something about Connor being obsessed with prodding Lenix into a fury because he loves to watch her react to him 🫠 (& I know this sounds juvenile but I promise you, it is written unbelievably well). Plus the love confession was TOP TIER!! Like possibly my fave of all time.
Mind you, this book is spicy AF, there are dark elements/possible triggers, & a love story like no other.
July 6, 2023
Connor freaking Maxwell. I devoured this book like it was my last meal. Safe to say Naomi is now a 1 click buy author for me. More thoughts to come later.
April 21, 2025
connorlenix are so sexy but i was expecting more buzziness icl
June 18, 2023
I actually liked this even more than Was I Ever Here? And I genuinely loved that book. I’m glad I went into this not knowing anything more than it was Connor and Lenix.
February 18, 2023
4.5⭐️/3.5🌶️
SPOILERS
I truly believe that Naomi creates such a unique world with her stories. The writing? Immaculate. Some of the best I’ve read in a while.
The characters were so perfectly made for each other. Lenix and Connor *chefs kiss*. Lenix is a woman who is running away from her cult-y past and hiding it from everyone and she’s trying to shove down the trauma that it’s caused. Connor the head of the Sin Eaters gang who would burn the world to save her. They hate each other which by all means HATE AWAY bcos we are gifted with glorious hate sex hehehehe.
It was such a fun read. We’ve got enemies to lovers, marriage of convenience, “my wife,” “touch her and you die,” a little bit of the nightmare trope. All very swoon worthy if I do say so myself.
The emotions that seep from the pages is something that is emotionally overwhelming which i devour to be quite honest. This story was truly quite beautiful and the end was just amazing.
I wish we saw a little more revenge from Lenix bcos i feel like the revenge was not nearly as drawn out as it could have been and it’s what they deserve for all the horrific shit they put my girl through. They deserve so much more than a bullet to the dick and being burned alive lol.
I also wish we got to see more of the reincarnation piece of this story bcos that’s what I loved so much about was I ever here. But I guess it makes sense in a way cos we don’t want the books to be too similar. Ans i also wish we got to see more of Sunny and Byzantine together. As well as Sunny and Lenny together.
There’s one scene that I think is so incredibly beautiful and all I will say is the sex in the wedding dress. That shit was so moving and the end of it all? ?? Gahhhh 😭😭😭
Connor and the fucking cat had me dying hahahaha. That was such a fun little addition to this overall dark story.
I knew as soon as Bastien was said to take Lucy away from the commune that their story would be next. I’m very intrigued to see how they fit together and will he make her dance with the devil? I sure fucking hope so. I feel like we’re gonna see her struggle with her faith. But in all honesty I hope she loses it and that’s just for me and my issues with religion personally. I honestly have no doubt but I feel like religious trauma is also gonna rear its ugly head.
SPOILERS
I truly believe that Naomi creates such a unique world with her stories. The writing? Immaculate. Some of the best I’ve read in a while.
The characters were so perfectly made for each other. Lenix and Connor *chefs kiss*. Lenix is a woman who is running away from her cult-y past and hiding it from everyone and she’s trying to shove down the trauma that it’s caused. Connor the head of the Sin Eaters gang who would burn the world to save her. They hate each other which by all means HATE AWAY bcos we are gifted with glorious hate sex hehehehe.
It was such a fun read. We’ve got enemies to lovers, marriage of convenience, “my wife,” “touch her and you die,” a little bit of the nightmare trope. All very swoon worthy if I do say so myself.
The emotions that seep from the pages is something that is emotionally overwhelming which i devour to be quite honest. This story was truly quite beautiful and the end was just amazing.
I wish we saw a little more revenge from Lenix bcos i feel like the revenge was not nearly as drawn out as it could have been and it’s what they deserve for all the horrific shit they put my girl through. They deserve so much more than a bullet to the dick and being burned alive lol.
I also wish we got to see more of the reincarnation piece of this story bcos that’s what I loved so much about was I ever here. But I guess it makes sense in a way cos we don’t want the books to be too similar. Ans i also wish we got to see more of Sunny and Byzantine together. As well as Sunny and Lenny together.
There’s one scene that I think is so incredibly beautiful and all I will say is the sex in the wedding dress. That shit was so moving and the end of it all? ?? Gahhhh 😭😭😭
Connor and the fucking cat had me dying hahahaha. That was such a fun little addition to this overall dark story.
I knew as soon as Bastien was said to take Lucy away from the commune that their story would be next. I’m very intrigued to see how they fit together and will he make her dance with the devil? I sure fucking hope so. I feel like we’re gonna see her struggle with her faith. But in all honesty I hope she loses it and that’s just for me and my issues with religion personally. I honestly have no doubt but I feel like religious trauma is also gonna rear its ugly head.
February 10, 2023
First and foremost I really want to thank author Naomi Loud for including me on her ARC crew for Was I Ever Real. Naomi is becoming one of my favorite authors to read, she truly is remarkable. I feel like the representation she gives in her characters is so important, especially recognizing a female bisexual character and adding in those little touches that are REAL and make sense. Ahem, the shorter nails on the first two fingers of Lenix's right hand...us femme queer folks are cackling.
WOW. Connor and Lenix are truly the characters I didn't know I needed. I thought Byzantine and Sunny were intense, but the raw emotion from Connie baby and Lenny was *chef's kiss*. What I found most compelling about this book was how different it was from Was I Ever Here - we get to see a plot driven struggle as well as character development from both Connor and Lenix.
If you've read Was I Ever Here and enjoyed Byzantine's filthy mouth, buckle up buttercup, because Connor blows Byzantine out of the water with his dominating BDE. The man oozes filth, sex, and power and I gobbled it up like the little smut gremlin I am. The spicy moments were just....I'm not giving anything away, but all I can say is the freaking tequila scene. IF YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW.
I cannot wait to see what else Naomi does with this world and these characters. I'm going to be in a book hangover for a couple days after this one. I also LOVE the playlists she has put together for both of the Was I Ever books, the vibes are perfect.
WOW. Connor and Lenix are truly the characters I didn't know I needed. I thought Byzantine and Sunny were intense, but the raw emotion from Connie baby and Lenny was *chef's kiss*. What I found most compelling about this book was how different it was from Was I Ever Here - we get to see a plot driven struggle as well as character development from both Connor and Lenix.
If you've read Was I Ever Here and enjoyed Byzantine's filthy mouth, buckle up buttercup, because Connor blows Byzantine out of the water with his dominating BDE. The man oozes filth, sex, and power and I gobbled it up like the little smut gremlin I am. The spicy moments were just....I'm not giving anything away, but all I can say is the freaking tequila scene. IF YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW.
I cannot wait to see what else Naomi does with this world and these characters. I'm going to be in a book hangover for a couple days after this one. I also LOVE the playlists she has put together for both of the Was I Ever books, the vibes are perfect.
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