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Life had always been about right and wrong.
No gray area. No exceptions.
But my time with the bastard sons of the Institution were slowly changing my mind–forcing me to see that sometimes the only options available to someone were bad and worse.
Their justice was different than mine and I struggled with it.
Except now, they were gone. Every day I’d fought to leave them, to go home. But…I wanted them back. What did that say about me?
I was too afraid to look in the mirror.
What if I do get back to them? Their father wanted them dead.
Could I sacrifice the life I loved for them? Could I forsake my sister to stay?
Yet a nagging feeling in the back of my mind said they were glad to be rid of me. I’d been a thorn in their side from day one. Why wouldn’t they be happy I was gone?
But I was taken for a reason. Now the most important question was…
Am I bait? Or collateral damage?
No gray area. No exceptions.
But my time with the bastard sons of the Institution were slowly changing my mind–forcing me to see that sometimes the only options available to someone were bad and worse.
Their justice was different than mine and I struggled with it.
Except now, they were gone. Every day I’d fought to leave them, to go home. But…I wanted them back. What did that say about me?
I was too afraid to look in the mirror.
What if I do get back to them? Their father wanted them dead.
Could I sacrifice the life I loved for them? Could I forsake my sister to stay?
Yet a nagging feeling in the back of my mind said they were glad to be rid of me. I’d been a thorn in their side from day one. Why wouldn’t they be happy I was gone?
But I was taken for a reason. Now the most important question was…
Am I bait? Or collateral damage?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2023
633 people are currently reading
1525 people want to read
About the author
Blake Blessing
39 books486 followersBlake Blessing is just a working mom that loves art in all forms, and all genres of romance. Although she enjoys writing romance of the steamier variety.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
March 19, 2023
1st person/multi pov
Spice: 4/5
After the ending we got in Addict I was eager to open up Convict and find out what this guy Matias was up to. I did not expect that situation to be resolved the way it was which only made me suspicious of the role this character would come to play later on in the story. It definitely added some more tension and mystery to the book.
For the rest of the book, we see Amorette struggling between wanting to seize any opportunity to make it back home to her sister or giving in to the feelings that have been growing between her and the guys. There is a constant battle between what her heart is telling her to do, what her head is telling her is right, and the fine line she is walking over her moral compass because of it. Not to mention things are heating up between her and more than one brother... let's just say that the spice is still pretty good in this book and one of the brothers surprised me a little but in a good way.
Amorette was pretty close to Grey by the end of book one so it was nice to see the dynamics between her and his brothers shifting more in this one. It felt like we got to see a lot deeper into what makes each brother tick as well as bringing the brothers closer to each other in some ways. Which is exactly what they need in order to successfully pull off their plans for Vincente. It becomes quite clear that those plans will not be as easy to execute as they believed and there is a lot of mystery surrounding the man's ability to stay one step ahead. I can't shake the feeling there is something major happening behind the scenes and it's been in front of me the whole time but I just couldn't see it. It will be interesting to see if that is the case in the end.
This book of course ends on another cliffhanger and it had my head spinning a little. While I am pretty sure I can guess correctly what is about to go down at the beginning of the next book I know that if it does it will alter things for all of them. There will be no stepping back over that line once it has been crossed but if I'm being honest I'm ready for that to happen lol!
This has been a fun series to follow for the most part so far and I'm looking forward to continuing it. Don't forget to check the TW before reading!
Spice: 4/5
After the ending we got in Addict I was eager to open up Convict and find out what this guy Matias was up to. I did not expect that situation to be resolved the way it was which only made me suspicious of the role this character would come to play later on in the story. It definitely added some more tension and mystery to the book.
For the rest of the book, we see Amorette struggling between wanting to seize any opportunity to make it back home to her sister or giving in to the feelings that have been growing between her and the guys. There is a constant battle between what her heart is telling her to do, what her head is telling her is right, and the fine line she is walking over her moral compass because of it. Not to mention things are heating up between her and more than one brother... let's just say that the spice is still pretty good in this book and one of the brothers surprised me a little but in a good way.
Amorette was pretty close to Grey by the end of book one so it was nice to see the dynamics between her and his brothers shifting more in this one. It felt like we got to see a lot deeper into what makes each brother tick as well as bringing the brothers closer to each other in some ways. Which is exactly what they need in order to successfully pull off their plans for Vincente. It becomes quite clear that those plans will not be as easy to execute as they believed and there is a lot of mystery surrounding the man's ability to stay one step ahead. I can't shake the feeling there is something major happening behind the scenes and it's been in front of me the whole time but I just couldn't see it. It will be interesting to see if that is the case in the end.
This book of course ends on another cliffhanger and it had my head spinning a little. While I am pretty sure I can guess correctly what is about to go down at the beginning of the next book I know that if it does it will alter things for all of them. There will be no stepping back over that line once it has been crossed but if I'm being honest I'm ready for that to happen lol!
This has been a fun series to follow for the most part so far and I'm looking forward to continuing it. Don't forget to check the TW before reading!
March 25, 2023
I absolutely fell in love with this band of brothers... So many possibilities, yet the ending brings more questions!! I can't wait to see what happens in this next book.. if Matias will be a regular occurrence.. whats to become of Parkers best friend.. what will Lafe finally do.. this book sucks you in.. can't wait to read more in the next installment.
November 1, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
i’m honestly really struggling with how i feel about this series. sometimes i really like it and then sometimes i feel myself skimming because i’m not totally invested. i think it’s because it’s such a slow burn for a RH. we do see Amorette with Grey in the first and this second one but you hardly see the building in the other relationships because they keep holding themselves back and amorette doesn’t even really like them in general besides finding them attractive.
we are starting to see some character growth (while very little) so im hoping it just keeps building. i was rooting for Lafe to be my favorite in the very beginning but man is so self destructive it just hurts to read his scenes with her and his thoughts.
parker is ….. different. he doesn’t even realize that he has a crush on amorette and we’ve read about him sleeping with other women during her stay there which is normally a huge no no for me - but i’m willing to over look it since they have literally nothing going on right now.
andre … 🤌🏽 all imma say
grey … ugh hate to love him, love to hate him. he always pushes amorettes buttons and is so quick to hurt her but then is instantly sweet when he wants to be. i just wish he didn’t take so many personal jabs at her because i feel like she shouldn’t put up with that just to end up in his bed BUT WHAT DO I KNOW.
i didn’t expect this review to be this long but on to the next!
i’m honestly really struggling with how i feel about this series. sometimes i really like it and then sometimes i feel myself skimming because i’m not totally invested. i think it’s because it’s such a slow burn for a RH. we do see Amorette with Grey in the first and this second one but you hardly see the building in the other relationships because they keep holding themselves back and amorette doesn’t even really like them in general besides finding them attractive.
we are starting to see some character growth (while very little) so im hoping it just keeps building. i was rooting for Lafe to be my favorite in the very beginning but man is so self destructive it just hurts to read his scenes with her and his thoughts.
parker is ….. different. he doesn’t even realize that he has a crush on amorette and we’ve read about him sleeping with other women during her stay there which is normally a huge no no for me - but i’m willing to over look it since they have literally nothing going on right now.
andre … 🤌🏽 all imma say
grey … ugh hate to love him, love to hate him. he always pushes amorettes buttons and is so quick to hurt her but then is instantly sweet when he wants to be. i just wish he didn’t take so many personal jabs at her because i feel like she shouldn’t put up with that just to end up in his bed BUT WHAT DO I KNOW.
i didn’t expect this review to be this long but on to the next!
March 19, 2023
(Thank you Peachy Keen and the author Blake Blessing for the eARC in exchange for a spoiler free review)
Please read the foreword from the author.
This book picked right back up from where the previous book, Addict ended.
There were more explanations to the questions from book 1 which is good because we got some context on Amorette and the harem. They did not gel together immediately but the work in progress made it realistic because if they had from the start given the themes and background story it would have decreased my rating of the book. Even though it is a slow burn it is tolerable.
Bastard Brothers of Carnage reviews
Addict
Convict - 3 ⭐
Please read the foreword from the author.
This book picked right back up from where the previous book, Addict ended.
There were more explanations to the questions from book 1 which is good because we got some context on Amorette and the harem. They did not gel together immediately but the work in progress made it realistic because if they had from the start given the themes and background story it would have decreased my rating of the book. Even though it is a slow burn it is tolerable.
Bastard Brothers of Carnage reviews
Addict
Convict - 3 ⭐
March 26, 2023
The Plot Thickens
Picking up where book 1 left off we find Amorette still trying to understand the world she has been thrust into. After being with her captor Maties for a week he finally returns her unscathed to the guys leaving Amorette wondering why? Especially when he is Vincente's legitimate son and despises his half brothers and have no real reason to help them....Or does he?
Lafe, Parker, Grey and Andre have so much tension amongst them. The guys originally didn't want Amorette around because she was a liability but things changed when she was taken from them. Amorette is slowing growing closer to the brothers but its still rocky simply because they all have targets on their back and nobody knows who to trust.
Vincente has a hit out on all of his illegitimate sons and now the guys are in a fight against the very man who made them and gave the power they possess. The lines are blurry and loyalties are tested. Amorette still is unsure of her place in alk of the death and chaos but she sure of one things; her guys will not fight without her.
Amorette is slowly changing into a femme fatale and I cannot wait to see embrace her inner morally grey persona and use it for the greater good. Loyalties are tested, there's a bounty on Lafe, Parker, Grey and Andre heads and I believe to bringing this war to a head lies with Amorette.
This book ends on a Cliffhanger.
Picking up where book 1 left off we find Amorette still trying to understand the world she has been thrust into. After being with her captor Maties for a week he finally returns her unscathed to the guys leaving Amorette wondering why? Especially when he is Vincente's legitimate son and despises his half brothers and have no real reason to help them....Or does he?
Lafe, Parker, Grey and Andre have so much tension amongst them. The guys originally didn't want Amorette around because she was a liability but things changed when she was taken from them. Amorette is slowing growing closer to the brothers but its still rocky simply because they all have targets on their back and nobody knows who to trust.
Vincente has a hit out on all of his illegitimate sons and now the guys are in a fight against the very man who made them and gave the power they possess. The lines are blurry and loyalties are tested. Amorette still is unsure of her place in alk of the death and chaos but she sure of one things; her guys will not fight without her.
Amorette is slowly changing into a femme fatale and I cannot wait to see embrace her inner morally grey persona and use it for the greater good. Loyalties are tested, there's a bounty on Lafe, Parker, Grey and Andre heads and I believe to bringing this war to a head lies with Amorette.
This book ends on a Cliffhanger.
March 18, 2023
Oh damm, this book again ended on a nerve recking situation. These cliffhangers give me mini setbacks, they are hard to forget and I just keep thinking about what’s coming next. The story started where it left off in ADDICT with Amorette kidnapped and the boys in frenzy to find her, using every resource they can think of. Well, that’s a bit strange behavior to do for someone you don’t even like.
The story takes interesting turns, and the emotions are evolving and are very confusing to everyone, avoidance is the best way to deal with it. Grey is possessive one doesn’t know how he’ll react if one of his brothers approaches Am. I really want to see how things develop further, there are so many unsaid and unfelt emotions and they are brewing a volcano that is just biding its time to erupt.
The scheming was fun to see, and Vicente being ahead of them is challenging. After all, he is the root of their existence and their being. The growth of Am’s character is speaking volumes and how well she deals with different scenarios. It’s a well-plotted story. The intense attitude of the characters is the highlight of the book. The title has its own meaning in the story.
The story takes interesting turns, and the emotions are evolving and are very confusing to everyone, avoidance is the best way to deal with it. Grey is possessive one doesn’t know how he’ll react if one of his brothers approaches Am. I really want to see how things develop further, there are so many unsaid and unfelt emotions and they are brewing a volcano that is just biding its time to erupt.
The scheming was fun to see, and Vicente being ahead of them is challenging. After all, he is the root of their existence and their being. The growth of Am’s character is speaking volumes and how well she deals with different scenarios. It’s a well-plotted story. The intense attitude of the characters is the highlight of the book. The title has its own meaning in the story.
March 21, 2023
Hook, Line, and Sinker. Baited 🎣
Vincente at the end of Addict went openly against his four sons, taking Amorette for Matias, his only "legitimate" son.
Retaliation leads this installment. Where every decision, every choice, and every action has consequences. A game twisted of pawns ♟️
Grey, Lafe, Andre and Parker
Trust swings back and forth like a pendulum on 🔥 in a narrow hall lined with knives, that are also on fire, and the floor is acid 🤨🤐🤷♀️
Best analogy I could come up with 😁
How far? How far will their father let the brothers get towards destroying him? How far will Amorette go with the brothers? Suspense had me 😳 📖
Vincente at the end of Addict went openly against his four sons, taking Amorette for Matias, his only "legitimate" son.
Retaliation leads this installment. Where every decision, every choice, and every action has consequences. A game twisted of pawns ♟️
Grey, Lafe, Andre and Parker
Trust swings back and forth like a pendulum on 🔥 in a narrow hall lined with knives, that are also on fire, and the floor is acid 🤨🤐🤷♀️
Best analogy I could come up with 😁
How far? How far will their father let the brothers get towards destroying him? How far will Amorette go with the brothers? Suspense had me 😳 📖
October 3, 2023
Book 2 in the series. Amorette becomes more involved with the brothers and expanding her feels. She is still sleeping with Grey even though she's attracted to the other brothers. I think Parker tells her about Grey not being bothered with sharing her. She starts off pissed about it but ends up dry humping Andre while he's flying a plane. They end up doing the dirty later in the book. 2 down...2 to go.
We meet Mathias (their other brother and legitimate son to Vicente) when Vicente has Amorette kidnapped and given to Mathias. After a week, he gives her back to his brothers.
Vicente is starting to attack the brothers and their businesses. Its like he wants to kill his illegitimate sons but IDK why he would other than he's crazy, gets bored and likes stirring things up.
This books ends on another cliffhanger...Vicente sends Lafe a picture of Amorette's twin sister and says he's holding her in one of his warehouses. Lafe knows how important Grace is to Amorette and decides to go to the warehouse to get her back. Its obviously a trap. They didn't have her sister and Lafe is taken and being held hostage.
We meet Mathias (their other brother and legitimate son to Vicente) when Vicente has Amorette kidnapped and given to Mathias. After a week, he gives her back to his brothers.
Vicente is starting to attack the brothers and their businesses. Its like he wants to kill his illegitimate sons but IDK why he would other than he's crazy, gets bored and likes stirring things up.
This books ends on another cliffhanger...Vicente sends Lafe a picture of Amorette's twin sister and says he's holding her in one of his warehouses. Lafe knows how important Grace is to Amorette and decides to go to the warehouse to get her back. Its obviously a trap. They didn't have her sister and Lafe is taken and being held hostage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2023
Convict
This has fast become one of my favorite series and series I anticipate and look forward to the next book releasing. Marking on my calendar as soon as he says.
I love the characters getting to know them the depth balanced with a really great plot. And spice that makes sense for the storyline. I like that the romance is unfolding while they're together, united against the enemy that is the guys father. The suspense The twist the turns all while building and exploring these relationships in an interesting situation especially where the FMC was coming from originally. In this book she chooses to be there which I feel is very important.
Furthermore this book ask the question what would you do if you grew up in the circumstances to survive If that's what you had known. And now that you are in the circumstances what are you going to do. Morals philosophical questions all coming to play. Culminating in the FMC being in a situation she's going to have to make a choice.
This book is very well written. Again the characters are fleshed out all the guys are unique and I'm enjoying getting to know them. It is multiple POV The FMC's very likable. And she does things in the situations and has reactions that are relatable. Each book is named for one of the guys and I really enjoy Parker on the way his mind works but Id call him more of a theif or would have liked to hear about a time that he was perhaps convicted rather than his crew. But I love that the brothers each have their own thing and that they all don't instantly get along and we get to work through there relationship dynamics as well as the FMC. And then a new brother is introduced And I'm excited to explore his motives towards the brothers and the FMC and if you'll become part of the harem or not.
And most importantly I just enjoyed this book throughout. It was such an enjoyable read kept me glued I can't recommend it enough. I do not give five stars lightly or rave reviews. At the years go by and I read a ton my standards have gone way up for quality of writing storytelling and characters and the chemistry between them. And this is a high quality dark reverse harem romance.
This has fast become one of my favorite series and series I anticipate and look forward to the next book releasing. Marking on my calendar as soon as he says.
I love the characters getting to know them the depth balanced with a really great plot. And spice that makes sense for the storyline. I like that the romance is unfolding while they're together, united against the enemy that is the guys father. The suspense The twist the turns all while building and exploring these relationships in an interesting situation especially where the FMC was coming from originally. In this book she chooses to be there which I feel is very important.
Furthermore this book ask the question what would you do if you grew up in the circumstances to survive If that's what you had known. And now that you are in the circumstances what are you going to do. Morals philosophical questions all coming to play. Culminating in the FMC being in a situation she's going to have to make a choice.
This book is very well written. Again the characters are fleshed out all the guys are unique and I'm enjoying getting to know them. It is multiple POV The FMC's very likable. And she does things in the situations and has reactions that are relatable. Each book is named for one of the guys and I really enjoy Parker on the way his mind works but Id call him more of a theif or would have liked to hear about a time that he was perhaps convicted rather than his crew. But I love that the brothers each have their own thing and that they all don't instantly get along and we get to work through there relationship dynamics as well as the FMC. And then a new brother is introduced And I'm excited to explore his motives towards the brothers and the FMC and if you'll become part of the harem or not.
And most importantly I just enjoyed this book throughout. It was such an enjoyable read kept me glued I can't recommend it enough. I do not give five stars lightly or rave reviews. At the years go by and I read a ton my standards have gone way up for quality of writing storytelling and characters and the chemistry between them. And this is a high quality dark reverse harem romance.
March 22, 2023
4.5⭐️ 2.5🌶️
Firstly, thank you for adding the recap! As someone who reads far too many books in between releases, things get jumbled so that was great to have. Hopefully more authors will start including that small section!
I loved this. I loved the realness of Amorette battling her moral compass, her shock when something sat right with her when it wouldn’t have before and the building relationships. Still very much a slow burn, but we’ve made moves with another brother (a bit shocked on WHICH brother, but couldn’t love it more 🥰). I wish they’d sit down and talk about it. But the tension and jealousy adds to the realism!
I will say everyone bugged me more in this book. 😂😂 There were so many conversations but nothing was happening! Everyone still has their own agendas and ideas. Even though the brother’s relationship is slowly, like molasses slowly, being melded back together and they all want their father gone, they refuse to listen to one another. With the one plan they did come up with, and that backfiring, we’re back at square one!
Amorette was doing things out of spite, then acting wounded as if it wasn’t her doing dumb things lol. The guys were keeping her in the dark still, which only added to Amorette’s and MY frustration lmfao. I’m 10000% positive Mia is actually working with their dad or is GOING to end up working with him, ooh maybe she’s the mysterious third person who tried to off Grey in the fights?? I feel like she and Valentina might cook something up too. Blanca and now her brother Jorge, still aren’t sitting right with me either. Matías seems to just want his brothers… and Amorette, which I’m totally on board for! Lafe.. I don’t even know with him honestly. He’s spiraling and it’s honestly sickening that his brothers turn the other way. But his hot and cold with Amorette was hurtful this time around. Really hoping they start to work through things next book 🤞🏻
I cannot wait for book three, I think we’re going to see Amorette truly abandon her compass for a little bit and I honestly can’t wait to watch her bloom! Blake’s writing is phenomenal and this story has a tight grasp on me 😂
Firstly, thank you for adding the recap! As someone who reads far too many books in between releases, things get jumbled so that was great to have. Hopefully more authors will start including that small section!
I loved this. I loved the realness of Amorette battling her moral compass, her shock when something sat right with her when it wouldn’t have before and the building relationships. Still very much a slow burn, but we’ve made moves with another brother (a bit shocked on WHICH brother, but couldn’t love it more 🥰). I wish they’d sit down and talk about it. But the tension and jealousy adds to the realism!
I will say everyone bugged me more in this book. 😂😂 There were so many conversations but nothing was happening! Everyone still has their own agendas and ideas. Even though the brother’s relationship is slowly, like molasses slowly, being melded back together and they all want their father gone, they refuse to listen to one another. With the one plan they did come up with, and that backfiring, we’re back at square one!
Amorette was doing things out of spite, then acting wounded as if it wasn’t her doing dumb things lol. The guys were keeping her in the dark still, which only added to Amorette’s and MY frustration lmfao. I’m 10000% positive Mia is actually working with their dad or is GOING to end up working with him, ooh maybe she’s the mysterious third person who tried to off Grey in the fights?? I feel like she and Valentina might cook something up too. Blanca and now her brother Jorge, still aren’t sitting right with me either. Matías seems to just want his brothers… and Amorette, which I’m totally on board for! Lafe.. I don’t even know with him honestly. He’s spiraling and it’s honestly sickening that his brothers turn the other way. But his hot and cold with Amorette was hurtful this time around. Really hoping they start to work through things next book 🤞🏻
I cannot wait for book three, I think we’re going to see Amorette truly abandon her compass for a little bit and I honestly can’t wait to watch her bloom! Blake’s writing is phenomenal and this story has a tight grasp on me 😂
March 23, 2023
2.5🔥/5
⚠️Always Check Content/Trigger Warnings⚠️
⭐️Tropes⭐️
- Dark Mafia Romance
- Why Choose
- Abduction
- Enemies to Lovers
- Multi POV
After Addict was done I was dying to find out how everything was going to play out with Amorette being taken so I knew diving into Convict it was going to be a wild ride! I was not disappointed! I devoured this book!
First and foremost, these men! Ugh I love them but also they drive me kind of crazy but overall I love them lol! She had already started to build a relationship with Grey in book one and they don’t miss a beat in this book! I love him and all his possessive tendencies! I was however ready for her relationships with the other brothers to blossom in this one and I wasn’t disappointed! We get to see more of their characters develop in this book in turn getting a peak at the inner demons. They all definitely have a soft spot for Amorette, even if they don’t know what exactly that means or might not even admit it! It’s definitely still more on the slow burn side so in terms of relationship advancements on that front she does have some fun with another brother. Which I actually didn’t see coming. Or rather I was convinced it was going to be someone else first so definitely an interesting but good surprise! I will say the relationship dynamic with Lafe is probably struggling the most and I’m going to need his brothers to really step up in this next book and slap some sense into him!
We still are seeing that communication barrier between the brothers in this one as well. They have a lot of separate agendas and want to do their own thing and run the show when they could easily just sit down and work together! They were driving me crazy on that front but we are slowly getting there! Amorette on the other hand has taken some large strides in trying to figure out what she actually wants! She’s still battling with what she believes is best but she’s also coming into her own!
I am dying to see what happens next! I have a-lot of questions and things are up in the air and I just need answers! Overall, I highly recommend giving this a read! The series is definitely it a stand alone so you’ll want to start with book 1!
⚠️Always Check Content/Trigger Warnings⚠️
⭐️Tropes⭐️
- Dark Mafia Romance
- Why Choose
- Abduction
- Enemies to Lovers
- Multi POV
After Addict was done I was dying to find out how everything was going to play out with Amorette being taken so I knew diving into Convict it was going to be a wild ride! I was not disappointed! I devoured this book!
First and foremost, these men! Ugh I love them but also they drive me kind of crazy but overall I love them lol! She had already started to build a relationship with Grey in book one and they don’t miss a beat in this book! I love him and all his possessive tendencies! I was however ready for her relationships with the other brothers to blossom in this one and I wasn’t disappointed! We get to see more of their characters develop in this book in turn getting a peak at the inner demons. They all definitely have a soft spot for Amorette, even if they don’t know what exactly that means or might not even admit it! It’s definitely still more on the slow burn side so in terms of relationship advancements on that front she does have some fun with another brother. Which I actually didn’t see coming. Or rather I was convinced it was going to be someone else first so definitely an interesting but good surprise! I will say the relationship dynamic with Lafe is probably struggling the most and I’m going to need his brothers to really step up in this next book and slap some sense into him!
We still are seeing that communication barrier between the brothers in this one as well. They have a lot of separate agendas and want to do their own thing and run the show when they could easily just sit down and work together! They were driving me crazy on that front but we are slowly getting there! Amorette on the other hand has taken some large strides in trying to figure out what she actually wants! She’s still battling with what she believes is best but she’s also coming into her own!
I am dying to see what happens next! I have a-lot of questions and things are up in the air and I just need answers! Overall, I highly recommend giving this a read! The series is definitely it a stand alone so you’ll want to start with book 1!
March 18, 2023
Convict by Blake Blessing.
Thank you Blake and Peachy Keen for the ARC.
Convict is book 2 in the Bastard Brothers of Carnage series. Was excited to dive back in to this world where so much is going on. We see the relationship dynamics slowly start to shift. Amorette has made peace with her situation and is learning to see life in shades versus black and white. It isn’t easy, but after getting closer to the guys she understands not all decisions are created equal. We learn more about the guys and how they grew up. Where things stood before Amorette joined them and we get to see how she has shifted almost everything. She seems like the missing piece that completes the puzzle essentially holding the group together. Lots of action. Good pace and flow. And that cliffhanger!! Can’t wait for Killer which releases in June.
“You’re my toy, aren’t you, my wicked love? You belong to me. No one is going to take you from us again. I fucking forbid it.”
“Remember when she’s with you that my bite mark is on her lip, and handprint is on her ass,”
“Love is not about liking someone. It’s about valuing them as a person. Knowing you’d do anything, be anything, to keep them alive.”
“If death is part of this life, I won't feel guilty for the deaths that save the innocents. And I won't think poorly of any of you for delivering it."
“When you accepted someone, you accepted all of them, not just the parts you wanted to see.”
“If you’re taking time to cause trouble, it better be worth it.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Description:
Life had always been about right and wrong. No gray area. No exceptions. But my time with the bastard sons of the Institution was slowly changing my mind-forcing me to see that sometimes the only options available to someone were bad and worse. Their justice was different than mine and I struggled with it. Except now, they were gone. Every day I'd fought to leave them, to go home. But...I wanted them back. What did that say about me? I was too afraid to look in the mirror. What if I do get back to them? Their father wanted them dead. Could I sacrifice the life I loved for them? Could I forsake my sister to stay? Yet a nagging feeling in the back of my mind said they were glad to be rid of me. I'd been a thorn in their side from day one. Why wouldn't they be happy I was gone? But I was taken for a reason. Now the most important question was... Am I bait? Or collateral damage?
Thank you Blake and Peachy Keen for the ARC.
Convict is book 2 in the Bastard Brothers of Carnage series. Was excited to dive back in to this world where so much is going on. We see the relationship dynamics slowly start to shift. Amorette has made peace with her situation and is learning to see life in shades versus black and white. It isn’t easy, but after getting closer to the guys she understands not all decisions are created equal. We learn more about the guys and how they grew up. Where things stood before Amorette joined them and we get to see how she has shifted almost everything. She seems like the missing piece that completes the puzzle essentially holding the group together. Lots of action. Good pace and flow. And that cliffhanger!! Can’t wait for Killer which releases in June.
“You’re my toy, aren’t you, my wicked love? You belong to me. No one is going to take you from us again. I fucking forbid it.”
“Remember when she’s with you that my bite mark is on her lip, and handprint is on her ass,”
“Love is not about liking someone. It’s about valuing them as a person. Knowing you’d do anything, be anything, to keep them alive.”
“If death is part of this life, I won't feel guilty for the deaths that save the innocents. And I won't think poorly of any of you for delivering it."
“When you accepted someone, you accepted all of them, not just the parts you wanted to see.”
“If you’re taking time to cause trouble, it better be worth it.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Description:
Life had always been about right and wrong. No gray area. No exceptions. But my time with the bastard sons of the Institution was slowly changing my mind-forcing me to see that sometimes the only options available to someone were bad and worse. Their justice was different than mine and I struggled with it. Except now, they were gone. Every day I'd fought to leave them, to go home. But...I wanted them back. What did that say about me? I was too afraid to look in the mirror. What if I do get back to them? Their father wanted them dead. Could I sacrifice the life I loved for them? Could I forsake my sister to stay? Yet a nagging feeling in the back of my mind said they were glad to be rid of me. I'd been a thorn in their side from day one. Why wouldn't they be happy I was gone? But I was taken for a reason. Now the most important question was... Am I bait? Or collateral damage?
February 29, 2024
I am eating these up...
March 1, 2024
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
🥵🥵
👿👿
Dark RH romance, lots of triggers.
💋💋💋
🥵🥵
👿👿
Dark RH romance, lots of triggers.
August 22, 2025
Great book
Why amazon insist on 20 words for a review I'll never understand. Especially when I just want to say I enjoyed this book.
Why amazon insist on 20 words for a review I'll never understand. Especially when I just want to say I enjoyed this book.
October 9, 2025
The plot of these books are honestly kind of whatever, but the slow built romance between everyone is so good. We got a little more something with Andre which was good, but still next to nothing with two others. I’m also weary of Mia. As for the main character I still like her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2023
I received an ARC for a voluntary review
Trigger warning applies, head authors advice
Book two picks up where book one ended, and boy is there more questions than answers.
Grey has this possessive need to control Amorette. Lafe and Andre still don’t trust her and Parker does everything to cause problems where he can.
Their livelihood means everything to them, but when they put plans in motion, to go against there own father, they do not foresee the consequences of their actions.
Amorette is conflicted about staying, doing everything she can to get back to her sister, but things begin to change, to shift even, and when she is given opportunities to make contact, she goes against her better judgment, proving to them that they can trust her.
However, they begin to feel changes between them, they were drifting away from each other, until Amorette crashed into their lives, now they have all gravitated towards her and back to each other, inciting feelings that they are not all ready to accept, but cannot deny.
Everything begins to spiral out of control, and as they begin to make sense of the reality of the chaos around them, has Lafe fallen into a carefully constructed trap, and Amorette becoming a pawn in Vicente’s machinations, everything coming full circle, up to the point where Amorette is put in a precarious situation where she has to make a choice, one that will either make her or break her.
Here to anticipating how this cliffhanger will unfold in book three!
And those smutty, hot as hell smex scenes were nothing short of wicked. Who knew Parker was the vouyer type!
Highly recommend both author and book
Trigger warning applies, head authors advice
Book two picks up where book one ended, and boy is there more questions than answers.
Grey has this possessive need to control Amorette. Lafe and Andre still don’t trust her and Parker does everything to cause problems where he can.
Their livelihood means everything to them, but when they put plans in motion, to go against there own father, they do not foresee the consequences of their actions.
Amorette is conflicted about staying, doing everything she can to get back to her sister, but things begin to change, to shift even, and when she is given opportunities to make contact, she goes against her better judgment, proving to them that they can trust her.
However, they begin to feel changes between them, they were drifting away from each other, until Amorette crashed into their lives, now they have all gravitated towards her and back to each other, inciting feelings that they are not all ready to accept, but cannot deny.
Everything begins to spiral out of control, and as they begin to make sense of the reality of the chaos around them, has Lafe fallen into a carefully constructed trap, and Amorette becoming a pawn in Vicente’s machinations, everything coming full circle, up to the point where Amorette is put in a precarious situation where she has to make a choice, one that will either make her or break her.
Here to anticipating how this cliffhanger will unfold in book three!
And those smutty, hot as hell smex scenes were nothing short of wicked. Who knew Parker was the vouyer type!
Highly recommend both author and book
March 22, 2023
5 ⭐️ 3.5 🌶️
This is the second book in a why choose dark romance series. In book 1 a woman was abducted into a sex trafficking ring and “rescued” by a bastard son of a cartel leader. She is brought back to the compound he shares with his other three bastard brothers and told she can never leave.
The FMC:
❤︎︎Amorette struggles with right and wrong being black and white. Her new environment has opened her eyes to doing what you must to survive. She is fierce, brave, and loyal. Over time she does come to trust the brothers and see good in each of them.
The MMCs:
❤︎︎Grey runs the cartel’s underground fight ring - fitting since he’s always using his fists. He has an ongoing semi-relationship with Amorette, aka ‘mamí’, and is quite possessive of her. He says he won’t share, but actions speak louder than words…
❤︎︎Parker runs the cartel’s heist operations and he likes to manipulate things behind the scenes. He wants Amorette and is certain she will bring everyone together if they’d agree to share. He is quite sure Grey and his ‘little love’ are on board after an accidental voyeur visit.
❤︎︎Andre, the oldest and most controlling brother handles law enforcement liaison duties. When Amorette wants to challenge Grey on his willingness to share after the voyeur incident, she decides to provoke him a bit by pursuing Andre. And Andre does not mind one bit! Sparks continue to fly between them, and the nickname ‘wifey’ is born.
❤︎︎Lafe, the brother who rescued Amorette, runs the drug operation and partakes in his supply. He struggles with his addiction and some trauma from his past, making it difficult for him to admit his feelings for Amorette, ‘killer’. But he certainly is feeling jealous of his brothers’ relationship with her.
Additional Thoughts: I love the character development we got throughout the book, amazing! The plot outside of their relationships is also cruising right along and keeping me on the edge of my seat! We ended right on a major cliffy as the brothers have been focused on trying to take down their father and he seems to be ahead of them at every turn!
This is the second book in a why choose dark romance series. In book 1 a woman was abducted into a sex trafficking ring and “rescued” by a bastard son of a cartel leader. She is brought back to the compound he shares with his other three bastard brothers and told she can never leave.
The FMC:
❤︎︎Amorette struggles with right and wrong being black and white. Her new environment has opened her eyes to doing what you must to survive. She is fierce, brave, and loyal. Over time she does come to trust the brothers and see good in each of them.
The MMCs:
❤︎︎Grey runs the cartel’s underground fight ring - fitting since he’s always using his fists. He has an ongoing semi-relationship with Amorette, aka ‘mamí’, and is quite possessive of her. He says he won’t share, but actions speak louder than words…
❤︎︎Parker runs the cartel’s heist operations and he likes to manipulate things behind the scenes. He wants Amorette and is certain she will bring everyone together if they’d agree to share. He is quite sure Grey and his ‘little love’ are on board after an accidental voyeur visit.
❤︎︎Andre, the oldest and most controlling brother handles law enforcement liaison duties. When Amorette wants to challenge Grey on his willingness to share after the voyeur incident, she decides to provoke him a bit by pursuing Andre. And Andre does not mind one bit! Sparks continue to fly between them, and the nickname ‘wifey’ is born.
❤︎︎Lafe, the brother who rescued Amorette, runs the drug operation and partakes in his supply. He struggles with his addiction and some trauma from his past, making it difficult for him to admit his feelings for Amorette, ‘killer’. But he certainly is feeling jealous of his brothers’ relationship with her.
Additional Thoughts: I love the character development we got throughout the book, amazing! The plot outside of their relationships is also cruising right along and keeping me on the edge of my seat! We ended right on a major cliffy as the brothers have been focused on trying to take down their father and he seems to be ahead of them at every turn!
March 27, 2023
Blake does it again!! There’s something so unique about this story and the characters! I never know what they are going to do or act and I love that! The men in this series are seriously the villains but I can’t help but love them!
After the cliffhanger we get to see more of the brothers dynamics as they try to save their girl! I love Amorette and her journey in this book and how she’s finally accepting her fate and future!!!
The brothers!!! Ugh they are so hot but so angsty!!! They still don’t know how to share and they continue to be aholes!! Parker!! I love to hate him lol Andre and Greg bring the spice and more of acceptance of Amorette! I need more from Lafe!! I know he’ll be my favorite in the end!!
That ending wasn’t as bad as the first but what a doozy!!! I love this series so much for the plot and slow burn and the spice is PERFECTION!! I can’t wait until the men finally learn how to be a family and take care of their girl in all ways!!
Can’t wait for the next one!! Go read this now!!!
After the cliffhanger we get to see more of the brothers dynamics as they try to save their girl! I love Amorette and her journey in this book and how she’s finally accepting her fate and future!!!
The brothers!!! Ugh they are so hot but so angsty!!! They still don’t know how to share and they continue to be aholes!! Parker!! I love to hate him lol Andre and Greg bring the spice and more of acceptance of Amorette! I need more from Lafe!! I know he’ll be my favorite in the end!!
That ending wasn’t as bad as the first but what a doozy!!! I love this series so much for the plot and slow burn and the spice is PERFECTION!! I can’t wait until the men finally learn how to be a family and take care of their girl in all ways!!
Can’t wait for the next one!! Go read this now!!!
March 26, 2023
This book was a lil different from the 1st oh it had the problems thanks to Parker🙄, but now that Vincente has made it fair game against the boy's I felt like they're grasping at straws and every move they tried to make against him he knew hmmm why is that? They never think to ask. Is there a spy in the ranks? Thing's are definitely changing between Amorette and the guy's and Grey is thinking that the thought of sharing her with his brother's doesn't make him want to kill them like it would if it was one of the guard's it's not a question of whether or not she'd want to seeing as she's coming to accept where she's at and them not giving her up and her starting to feel something for all of them just not Parker, but you wait he'll win her over to.
That last chapter leading up to that non shocking cliffhanger ending, because let's face it we all knew what was going to happen🤦🏼♀️🙄that girl geez, but we all know what she'll choose, but will the other guy's get there in time or not? I'm like Parker, Vincente has to go. We'll find out what happens in the next book.
That last chapter leading up to that non shocking cliffhanger ending, because let's face it we all knew what was going to happen🤦🏼♀️🙄that girl geez, but we all know what she'll choose, but will the other guy's get there in time or not? I'm like Parker, Vincente has to go. We'll find out what happens in the next book.
March 28, 2023
I was lucky to receive an ARC copy and this was the first book by Blake Blessing I’ve read.
We were thrown right into the story, where the last one left off with the brothers in search of Amorette.
We saw Amorette and Grey's relationship develop and the budding of her relationship start with Andre but I'm really interested to see where the story takes her relationships with Parker and Lafe. I just want good things for Lafe he's so sweet and troubled.
I know this story is a long game but I did wish we had a bit of group scenes even though it was teased a couple times - just me always wanting more spice😉
Overall this story was full of contempt, slow breakdown of walls and lots of action. Can’t wait to read the continuations - there better be a satisfying end to Vicente!!
We were thrown right into the story, where the last one left off with the brothers in search of Amorette.
We saw Amorette and Grey's relationship develop and the budding of her relationship start with Andre but I'm really interested to see where the story takes her relationships with Parker and Lafe. I just want good things for Lafe he's so sweet and troubled.
I know this story is a long game but I did wish we had a bit of group scenes even though it was teased a couple times - just me always wanting more spice😉
Overall this story was full of contempt, slow breakdown of walls and lots of action. Can’t wait to read the continuations - there better be a satisfying end to Vicente!!
March 25, 2023
Convict Bastard Brothers of Carnage by Blake Blessing is a thrilling organized crime enemies-to-lovers story. This is book 2 in the series. This story begins where Addict left off. Amorette has been kidnapped again. Grey and the others are searching for her, trying to discover who took her. Through a twist of events and a new character, she finds her. way back to them. However, as things heat up with Vinceint, will getting her back save her or seal all their dooms?
This was just as exciting as Addict. Amorette continues to grow and change, discovering things about herself and her men she never would have thought possible. As she gets to know the guys and lives their lifestyle, she can no longer judge them from afar and through the same lens. She begins to feel they are just as much the victims as she. Now viewing them differently, it's more complicated to deny the attraction she feels. Will Gray be willing to share? Things heat up in this book. We get to know more about the characters and their pasts. There is plenty of excitement as Vincent begin to go after them. There are betrayals, twists, turns, violence, and danger. The more Blessing gives us, the more it seems to open the door to more questions. I can't wait to see what happens next after a crazy cliffhanger left me free-falling! I gave Convict 5 out of 5 stars for its multilayered characters and exciting plot filled with suspense.
This was just as exciting as Addict. Amorette continues to grow and change, discovering things about herself and her men she never would have thought possible. As she gets to know the guys and lives their lifestyle, she can no longer judge them from afar and through the same lens. She begins to feel they are just as much the victims as she. Now viewing them differently, it's more complicated to deny the attraction she feels. Will Gray be willing to share? Things heat up in this book. We get to know more about the characters and their pasts. There is plenty of excitement as Vincent begin to go after them. There are betrayals, twists, turns, violence, and danger. The more Blessing gives us, the more it seems to open the door to more questions. I can't wait to see what happens next after a crazy cliffhanger left me free-falling! I gave Convict 5 out of 5 stars for its multilayered characters and exciting plot filled with suspense.
March 18, 2023
Tumultuous read!
*RH
*Contemporary
*Multi-POV
*cartel
*Anti-heroes
*moralistic FMC
*triggers
*established harem (4)
*slow/mid-burn 🔥
*2/5
Corr blimey this book really lies in the grey areas….are you really the villain if you’re forced into the lifestyle? Are you less of a villain if you draw lines?! So many moral questions that Amorette has to grapple with in terms of her boys 🤔
The brothers have never had a fantastic relationship relying on Andre to keep them together and all of them trying to keep Lafe alive but you slowly see them begin to lean on each other and build slightly better bonds in this book…although Greys possessiveness may cause some issues with that! Alongside Parker being an absolute maverick and causing more trouble than necessary 😖😖 and it’s all thanks to our FMC Amorette, who realises that she may actually want to be with the brothers …which throws her compass into a tail spin. There’s some hot 🥵 scenes throughout although it is on the slower burn side.
You definitely see their growth as characters….it will be interesting to see how this affects them with the arrival of new character Matias- looking forward to seeing how that plays out 😄
With things hotting up in their moves against Vincent it’s all over the place 😬. And he’s seriously needs to suffer for what he’s done…especially that cliffhanger?! Will it be the final state for our FMC?!!
*RH
*Contemporary
*Multi-POV
*cartel
*Anti-heroes
*moralistic FMC
*triggers
*established harem (4)
*slow/mid-burn 🔥
*2/5
Corr blimey this book really lies in the grey areas….are you really the villain if you’re forced into the lifestyle? Are you less of a villain if you draw lines?! So many moral questions that Amorette has to grapple with in terms of her boys 🤔
The brothers have never had a fantastic relationship relying on Andre to keep them together and all of them trying to keep Lafe alive but you slowly see them begin to lean on each other and build slightly better bonds in this book…although Greys possessiveness may cause some issues with that! Alongside Parker being an absolute maverick and causing more trouble than necessary 😖😖 and it’s all thanks to our FMC Amorette, who realises that she may actually want to be with the brothers …which throws her compass into a tail spin. There’s some hot 🥵 scenes throughout although it is on the slower burn side.
You definitely see their growth as characters….it will be interesting to see how this affects them with the arrival of new character Matias- looking forward to seeing how that plays out 😄
With things hotting up in their moves against Vincent it’s all over the place 😬. And he’s seriously needs to suffer for what he’s done…especially that cliffhanger?! Will it be the final state for our FMC?!!
March 23, 2023
Convict by Blake Blessing is a dark why choose romantic suspense. This is the second book in the Bastard Brothers of Carnage series.
I absolutely love Blake's books! I was pulled in from the first chapter and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I am loving the tension and chemistry between Amorette and the guys. I really enjoyed getting Amorette, Lafe, Andre, Grey, and Parker's points of view throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book ended on an amazing cliffhanger that left me begging for more. I can't wait for the next book in the series Killer to be released on June 20, 2023.
I would recommend this book if you like dark romances, mafia romances, reverse harem romances, or romantic suspense.
I absolutely love Blake's books! I was pulled in from the first chapter and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I am loving the tension and chemistry between Amorette and the guys. I really enjoyed getting Amorette, Lafe, Andre, Grey, and Parker's points of view throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book ended on an amazing cliffhanger that left me begging for more. I can't wait for the next book in the series Killer to be released on June 20, 2023.
I would recommend this book if you like dark romances, mafia romances, reverse harem romances, or romantic suspense.
March 24, 2023
Vicente is still causing trouble for his sons - Parker, Grey, Andre and Lafe. More so in this 2nd book in this series as he's given the green light to everyone that they are free to bring them in dead or alive. Add to that Amorette (FMC) being left in the hands of Matias. Another son but a legitimate one and someone I'm still trying to work out. What's he up to and what's his angle? Im looking forward to seeing where that goes on in the future. The plot twists and turns are what make this series for me as well as the smoking hot steamy scenarios that Amorette has with the guys. That cliff hanger ending was just epic!!! I cant wait to get my hands on the next book now
March 26, 2023
I was so excited for this book and wow! It lived up to all my expectations and then some! Amorette and her boys kept me so enveloped in the story that it felt like I was personally involved in the events that were happening. I love that Blake uses multiple POVs throughout the book. I truly can not wait to see how this story concludes in book three!
March 27, 2023
Holy guacamole with all the sauce
Blown away. I love Lafe more now. He's ugh so much! The growth is a beautiful thing to witness. The bonds strengthening! I know she's going to sacrifice herself to the dark for the man who saved her. It's who she is.
Blown away. I love Lafe more now. He's ugh so much! The growth is a beautiful thing to witness. The bonds strengthening! I know she's going to sacrifice herself to the dark for the man who saved her. It's who she is.
March 23, 2023
“I didn’t want Parker. He gave off too many frat boy vibes with a dash of sociopath”
Tropes:
Dark romance
Mafia
Touch her and *unalive*
Reverse harem
Kidnapping
Matías, Matías, Matías. Where do you fit into all of this? That’s what I want to know.
With Convict continuing on from the kidnapping at the end of Addict, book two definitely picks up in the action department with the battle between the brothers and their father ramping up.
I love how Amorette starts pushing Greys boundaries about sharing her. I also liked her character development. It seems she’s coming more involved in the institution whether she realises it or not.
Lafe’s character still makes me want to headbutt a wall with his addiction and his tendency to take his feelings out on everyone instead of coping with them. Loved Parker in this one.
Definitely a good cliffhanger to end the book, so can’t wait to see what happens next
Tropes:
Dark romance
Mafia
Touch her and *unalive*
Reverse harem
Kidnapping
Matías, Matías, Matías. Where do you fit into all of this? That’s what I want to know.
With Convict continuing on from the kidnapping at the end of Addict, book two definitely picks up in the action department with the battle between the brothers and their father ramping up.
I love how Amorette starts pushing Greys boundaries about sharing her. I also liked her character development. It seems she’s coming more involved in the institution whether she realises it or not.
Lafe’s character still makes me want to headbutt a wall with his addiction and his tendency to take his feelings out on everyone instead of coping with them. Loved Parker in this one.
Definitely a good cliffhanger to end the book, so can’t wait to see what happens next
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2023
Absolutely devoured this book.
I really enjoyed the way we deep dived into the characters a lot more in this book.
Amorette really cannot understand why she is so connected to the Brothers after everything that has gone down so far. While she is with Grey, there are moments throughout this book, spicy moments, that start to lead us into the sharing zone. wink wink.
Matias is the rightful heir to the C@rtel but all he really wants is a connection with his brothers, and it gutted me that he has been unable to achieve that so far. Could Amorette be the key to bringing them together.
The Brothers cannot seem to catch a break, always one step behind with the odds stacked against them. They are going to start trusting each other more and working together to bring down Vincente.
I really enjoyed the way we deep dived into the characters a lot more in this book.
Amorette really cannot understand why she is so connected to the Brothers after everything that has gone down so far. While she is with Grey, there are moments throughout this book, spicy moments, that start to lead us into the sharing zone. wink wink.
Matias is the rightful heir to the C@rtel but all he really wants is a connection with his brothers, and it gutted me that he has been unable to achieve that so far. Could Amorette be the key to bringing them together.
The Brothers cannot seem to catch a break, always one step behind with the odds stacked against them. They are going to start trusting each other more and working together to bring down Vincente.
March 22, 2023
The series keeps getting better and better!
This book picks up from when Amorette was taken.
While we learn some new things, but that still brings new questions. This book definitely kept me interested.
We continue to get action and suspense and maybe even a little mystery. Lots of steam!!! 🥵
I think we also learn a little more about our characters. Some relationships grow and change in this book as well.
We get to see a lot more of Amorette's feelings about what's going and her character goes through some growth as well.
The ending on this book, left me wanting more. I can't wait for book 3!!
This book picks up from when Amorette was taken.
While we learn some new things, but that still brings new questions. This book definitely kept me interested.
We continue to get action and suspense and maybe even a little mystery. Lots of steam!!! 🥵
I think we also learn a little more about our characters. Some relationships grow and change in this book as well.
We get to see a lot more of Amorette's feelings about what's going and her character goes through some growth as well.
The ending on this book, left me wanting more. I can't wait for book 3!!
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