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The Savage Duet
A King So Savage
I saw her.
I wanted her.
I took her.
The money is just an excuse. Her brother’s debt? A convenient justification for my obsession. She’s been mine since the day I laid eyes on her.
Taking her captive stirs up a storm. Her depraved brother wants her back. My own half-brother is determined to snatch my kingdom from me, and my men lust after the woman I’ve stolen. And she looks at me with reluctant, angry desire every time I touch her.
And I touch her every chance I get. She’s so bright and shiny—a pretty toy I can break and put back together again and again. She may be my prisoner, but she’s got my black heart locked up tight.
Well, I won’t need that useless lump of muscle and tissue if I lose her. I won’t need anything except the blood of our enemies dripping from my hands. I’ll rip the heart out of any man who dares hurt her and place it at her feet.
Crush~Conquer~Protect
When it comes to my wicked little lamb, my personal motto means everything.
I’m Kingston Vaughn Winter.
And Ava Bella Blue is mine.
***
A King So Savage contains material that may be upsetting to some readers. violence, dark romance, dubcon, mature langue, sensitive content, adult situations, and jealous/possessive themes.
I wanted her.
I took her.
The money is just an excuse. Her brother’s debt? A convenient justification for my obsession. She’s been mine since the day I laid eyes on her.
Taking her captive stirs up a storm. Her depraved brother wants her back. My own half-brother is determined to snatch my kingdom from me, and my men lust after the woman I’ve stolen. And she looks at me with reluctant, angry desire every time I touch her.
And I touch her every chance I get. She’s so bright and shiny—a pretty toy I can break and put back together again and again. She may be my prisoner, but she’s got my black heart locked up tight.
Well, I won’t need that useless lump of muscle and tissue if I lose her. I won’t need anything except the blood of our enemies dripping from my hands. I’ll rip the heart out of any man who dares hurt her and place it at her feet.
Crush~Conquer~Protect
When it comes to my wicked little lamb, my personal motto means everything.
I’m Kingston Vaughn Winter.
And Ava Bella Blue is mine.
***
A King So Savage contains material that may be upsetting to some readers. violence, dark romance, dubcon, mature langue, sensitive content, adult situations, and jealous/possessive themes.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2023
93 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
April Moran
14 books282 followersApril enjoys writing both historical and contemporary/dark romance with a generous splash of heat. When not penning tales of passion, she enjoys traveling with her husband, attending rock concerts with friends, and time spent with family. Brainstorming new storylines is best done while riding her horse or during long walks with her German Shepherd. A tumbler of good whiskey helps tie all the details together and brings her characters to life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
March 22, 2023
I've enjoyed historical romance by April Moran in the past, so I was really excited when I found out that she was trying her hand at a dark contemporary romance. A King So Savage is the story of the dark and commanding Kingston who takes Ava captive as payment for her brother's debt. Will he release her, sell her or keep her for himself is the question, especially since these two appear to have some history. Overall, I enjoyed this story, though it's rather predictable for enyone familiar with dark romance as well as really heavy on the body betrayal aspect. This might be the case of "it's not you it's me" as I've found this particular element overdone in way too many books lately. Ava certainly jumped from hating Kingston and sassing him to melting into a puddle of warm goo at his every touch. Kingston, on his part, appearred to have a hard time making up his mind about what he wanted to do with the delectable Ava Blue, which was weird given that the preface alludes to his years old obsession with Ava as well as him intenionally using this opportunity to take her for himself. Despite these misgivings, I kept turning the pages and was invested in the story and the characters. There are a few villains in this one whose potential is yet untapped, so I assume things will escalate in book two. While this book technically ends on a cliffy, it's not a bad one. I'm definitely excited to see where this story goes in the next book.
December 18, 2023
“I saw her.”
“I wanted her.”
“I took her.”
“I’m Kingston Vaughn Winter. And Ava Bella Blue is mine.”
Just the title and then blurb for this book pulls you in. And this is a well written dark romance. King is gorgeous with blue eyes and raven black hair. He is a dark brooding alpha male and he gets what he wants!
Ava and her brother’s parents died in an accident. He has never been a good brother to her.
Kingston was a family friend to her parents. He knows everything about Ava. Unfortunately for her, her brother owes money to King.
I loved Ava, she has a strong character and she is an independent young lady. King and her will take you on a roller coaster ride! April draws you into the storyline with anticipation and keeps you glued to your kindle!
Each chapter builds you up and keeps you addicted to the book!
I loved this book and recommend it! I’m eagerly awaiting book 2 to find out more!! I really can’t wait for it!
Be warned there are trigger warnings that the author points out.
“I wanted her.”
“I took her.”
“I’m Kingston Vaughn Winter. And Ava Bella Blue is mine.”
Just the title and then blurb for this book pulls you in. And this is a well written dark romance. King is gorgeous with blue eyes and raven black hair. He is a dark brooding alpha male and he gets what he wants!
Ava and her brother’s parents died in an accident. He has never been a good brother to her.
Kingston was a family friend to her parents. He knows everything about Ava. Unfortunately for her, her brother owes money to King.
I loved Ava, she has a strong character and she is an independent young lady. King and her will take you on a roller coaster ride! April draws you into the storyline with anticipation and keeps you glued to your kindle!
Each chapter builds you up and keeps you addicted to the book!
I loved this book and recommend it! I’m eagerly awaiting book 2 to find out more!! I really can’t wait for it!
Be warned there are trigger warnings that the author points out.
March 19, 2023
This was such a fun dark captor/captive romance! Kingston had worked for Ava's parents and knows everything there is to know about Ava. Her brother owes Kingston money so he takes Ava and holds her captive while waiting to see if her brother will pay up!! This definitely is twisted and tormenting but oh so fun to read! She wants to escape so bad but knows there will be consequences if she tries. Kingston knows that there are others out there (including his staff) that will hurt her, so even though he isn't a great person himself he still wants to protect her from what he know can and probably will happen if she were to be free from him. This does end on a cliffhanger and I can't wait for book 2 to come out so I can see what happens next.
*check trigger warnings before picking this book up!
*check trigger warnings before picking this book up!
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April 15, 2023Nothing wrong with it but it didn’t grab my attention.
March 20, 2023
I loved this book! It’s not a fairytale or a sweet story. It’s not even a story about a villain who had a soft spot for the FMC. There are very few redeeming qualities to the MMC. And the FMC is a pawn to the men of the book. But she still fights every step of the way.
The darkness and unapologetic villain are what made me love this book so much.
It ends in a total cliffhanger with no HEA in sight. It actually ends in a way hat you don’t even realize it’s over…. PERFECTION!
The darkness and unapologetic villain are what made me love this book so much.
It ends in a total cliffhanger with no HEA in sight. It actually ends in a way hat you don’t even realize it’s over…. PERFECTION!
December 27, 2023
Kingston Vaughn Winter saw a chance to finally have Ava Bella Blue in his grasps, kidnapping and holding her captive while her brother neglects to pay his debt. King finds himself enjoying Ava's attempts to leave, in some ways she is just as ruthless as he is. King finds himself being protective with Ava but when she is put in danger on his watch he will do everything he can to claim her as his.
The blurb was what pulled my attention on this story. It is dark and once you start reading you cannot put it down. I liked Ava, she could have easily rolled over and waited for what happens but she gives King a run for his money. Great chemistry, can't wait for the second book.
The blurb was what pulled my attention on this story. It is dark and once you start reading you cannot put it down. I liked Ava, she could have easily rolled over and waited for what happens but she gives King a run for his money. Great chemistry, can't wait for the second book.
March 27, 2023
OHHHHH, I loved this one. This is my first April book and I really enjoyed it. The writing I loved and the characters. The beginning sucked me in as we even though we start right at the moment of Kingston already just captured Ava. Ava's brother owes Kingston a lot of money, so Kingston took Ava to make sure her brother will pay up. I will considered this slow burn as a whole as the scenes of what April has given us are detailed its only been a few days. Its duel pov so we get both views from Kingston and Ava which I love. This part 1 of the story just makes want to continue to keep on reading about this couple as they both have tragic pasts. Its a given with the ending ends on a cliffy, which I don't mind so I will definitely be back for the finale in this duet. I already have added other's of Aprils work to my TBR.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
April 3, 2023
Well April Moran has done it again. She is so talented and this book did not disappoint. It is like writing the perfect song with all the changes in tempo, or a dark and dirty chocolate cake that you know is bad but you must devour it as it is so decedent.
King is a beast, he is an evil mastermind who kidnaps Ava for payment of debts from her brother. The way Moran wrote and describes King makes you hate to love him. Like I said, he is the dark and dirty chocolate cake. Ava although innocent has some fire in her and tries to stand up to King at every chance she gets.
This weave of her testing her power and will against King, only ignites his lusty dark appetite for Ava. He is the King and will not allow anyone to touch or harm her, even though he wishes to destroy the fabric of her being.
It will leave you breathless for more. Cannot wait to read part 2!!!
King is a beast, he is an evil mastermind who kidnaps Ava for payment of debts from her brother. The way Moran wrote and describes King makes you hate to love him. Like I said, he is the dark and dirty chocolate cake. Ava although innocent has some fire in her and tries to stand up to King at every chance she gets.
This weave of her testing her power and will against King, only ignites his lusty dark appetite for Ava. He is the King and will not allow anyone to touch or harm her, even though he wishes to destroy the fabric of her being.
It will leave you breathless for more. Cannot wait to read part 2!!!
March 24, 2023
A King So Savage is the first book I’ve read by April Moran and I am pretty sure, I will be following her work for a long time. I really liked her writing style and her words, my only complaint could be the slow burn side of things. Lots of wicked, sensual things took placed between the main characters Ava and King from quite the beginning but still… I can’t divulge the details in order not to spoil it, just know that the second part of this duet will most likely will melt our kindles into puddles. The plot is really intriguing and detailed in layers and layers of secrets and betrayals that I can’t stand to wait much longer for the second book to come out.
December 15, 2023
4.5 stars
There are warnings for trigger content so make sure to read that before reading this story.
A King So Savage is just the change of pace I needed. It is the first book in The Savage Duet. There is nothing better than a captivating dark romance that is gritty, raw, bloody, and deadly.
King is an alpha male. He is a little dark, passionate, possessive, obsessive, dangerous and knows what he likes and gets what he wants. She is nothing more than repayment or so he says but in reality, she is his and won’t let her go.
Ava is beautiful and strong, and she is nobody’s pawn. She should be scared of him but something about him draws her in.
Together they are hot, and sparks fly. I saw her. I wanted her. I took her.
It is a compelling romance tale that at times was a little predictable but with angst, drama, emotion, secrets, danger, secrets, danger, and more.
If you like an intense, dominant, possessive, utterly irresistible man who loves just as fiercely as he lives then you will love this book.
There are warnings for trigger content so make sure to read that before reading this story.
A King So Savage is just the change of pace I needed. It is the first book in The Savage Duet. There is nothing better than a captivating dark romance that is gritty, raw, bloody, and deadly.
King is an alpha male. He is a little dark, passionate, possessive, obsessive, dangerous and knows what he likes and gets what he wants. She is nothing more than repayment or so he says but in reality, she is his and won’t let her go.
Ava is beautiful and strong, and she is nobody’s pawn. She should be scared of him but something about him draws her in.
Together they are hot, and sparks fly. I saw her. I wanted her. I took her.
It is a compelling romance tale that at times was a little predictable but with angst, drama, emotion, secrets, danger, secrets, danger, and more.
If you like an intense, dominant, possessive, utterly irresistible man who loves just as fiercely as he lives then you will love this book.
January 27, 2024
Oh. My. Goodness.
I am an avid dark romance reader and this book checked all the boxes. I would definitely check for triggers before reading this. This is my first book by April Moran and it did not disappoint! I was hooked with every sentence and couldn’t wait to see where their unlikely romance headed.
A brief blurb:
This book was about Kingston taking Ava to pay for her brother’s debt. What Kingston thought was just a regular transaction for him, turns into something more.
I am an avid dark romance reader and this book checked all the boxes. I would definitely check for triggers before reading this. This is my first book by April Moran and it did not disappoint! I was hooked with every sentence and couldn’t wait to see where their unlikely romance headed.
A brief blurb:
This book was about Kingston taking Ava to pay for her brother’s debt. What Kingston thought was just a regular transaction for him, turns into something more.
January 30, 2024
What do you do when your brother owes a debt he can’t pay and you get kidnapped?
You fall for your savage kidnapper…
Ava and Kingston have chemistry from the beginning…but Ava isn’t the meek hostage. She’s a fighter…but she’s not just fighting for her freedom…
I can’t wait to see if how long she tries to fight her feelings…and how long Kingston is willing to wait.
You fall for your savage kidnapper…
Ava and Kingston have chemistry from the beginning…but Ava isn’t the meek hostage. She’s a fighter…but she’s not just fighting for her freedom…
I can’t wait to see if how long she tries to fight her feelings…and how long Kingston is willing to wait.
March 23, 2023
5/5⭐
3/5🌶️
Main characters: Kingston & Ava
This is April Moran's first dark romance and I think she nailed it so good! King "kidnaps" Ava and holds her for ransom to get her brother to pay his debts to King! Ava is a feisty woman! I love her attitude so much! And well King, I just LOVE him so much!!! He is the perfect dose of dark, possessive, touch her and you die combos!
This is book 1 in the savage duet.. Kingston's hand necklaces! Whew!🥵😮💨 The way King and Ava are drawn together! Even through his cruelty towards Ava their still drawn to each other..
Favorite Quote: "you're fucking mine, Ava. Mine. And as of this moment, you are not alone."
Virgin FMC
Morally Grey MMC
Dark Romance
Touch Her and Die
3/5🌶️
Main characters: Kingston & Ava
This is April Moran's first dark romance and I think she nailed it so good! King "kidnaps" Ava and holds her for ransom to get her brother to pay his debts to King! Ava is a feisty woman! I love her attitude so much! And well King, I just LOVE him so much!!! He is the perfect dose of dark, possessive, touch her and you die combos!
This is book 1 in the savage duet.. Kingston's hand necklaces! Whew!🥵😮💨 The way King and Ava are drawn together! Even through his cruelty towards Ava their still drawn to each other..
Favorite Quote: "you're fucking mine, Ava. Mine. And as of this moment, you are not alone."
Virgin FMC
Morally Grey MMC
Dark Romance
Touch Her and Die
March 24, 2023
Overall rating 4.5
The MMC ,king was mean and ruthless towards FMC. He was not likeable.
FmC,Ava was innocent,fiery ,likeable.
I have read and Ms April Moran 's historical romances. This is my first contemporary dark read by her.
I have a few complaints.
Though the leads had enough chemistry,the way their romance moves was predictable. I would have liked if Ava showed more strong will.the whole body betrayal trope is a little too old.
Things I liked:-
Ava was a gem .
The plot moved at a decent pace.
The interactions between Ava and King were highly entertaining.
Oliver was an intriguing character.
Unapologetically cruel and black.
King had a tough time deciding what he wants.
I am waiting for the next book now to see if the author gives us something the readers already didn't expect.
The MMC ,king was mean and ruthless towards FMC. He was not likeable.
FmC,Ava was innocent,fiery ,likeable.
I have read and Ms April Moran 's historical romances. This is my first contemporary dark read by her.
I have a few complaints.
Though the leads had enough chemistry,the way their romance moves was predictable. I would have liked if Ava showed more strong will.the whole body betrayal trope is a little too old.
Things I liked:-
Ava was a gem .
The plot moved at a decent pace.
The interactions between Ava and King were highly entertaining.
Oliver was an intriguing character.
Unapologetically cruel and black.
King had a tough time deciding what he wants.
I am waiting for the next book now to see if the author gives us something the readers already didn't expect.
March 26, 2023
A King So Savage by April Moran is the First book in The Savage Duet. This starts the story of Ava Blue and Kingston Winter. Kingston gets what he wants and he makes people pay for when they don't keep to the agreement. Ava's brother has gone to far is his debit to Kingston. So, Kingston takes Ava as payment. Kingston has felt something for Ava for a while but he tries to not give into those feelings. But his plan for revenge and being in control is starting to waver. This book does end with a cliffhanger setting us up for the next installment in their story.
April 3, 2023
This story was a bit of a different read for me. The dark moments and the romantic moments are entertaining. The leading characters are very interesting. It’s the male characters for me that has me shaking my head with wonder. King and Oliver are the main two that fight for Alpha in this book. Therefore their dominance brings war to the story. The book was a nice read. I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2023
Horrible
This book was just horrible! I could only read to 32% and gave up. There was absolutely nothing in this story to get me to care about the main characters and was so boring that I just could not go on! I actually paid for this book and I'm going to ask for my money back since it was so bad that I couldn't even get half way though! Run from this book! Shirley
This book was just horrible! I could only read to 32% and gave up. There was absolutely nothing in this story to get me to care about the main characters and was so boring that I just could not go on! I actually paid for this book and I'm going to ask for my money back since it was so bad that I couldn't even get half way though! Run from this book! Shirley
March 24, 2023
I absolutely love dark romances. They are my favorite.
Love the bad boy and antihero. And the strong women who captures their attention.
And Kingston is right up there in the bad boy charts.
He’s all kinds of messed up gray. Actually leaning towards the black lol.
King is ruthless, he’s dangerous and shows zero mercy to those who have wronged him.
And those that have wronged him better be on guard because he will most definitely exact his revenge. And if that means others will be collateral damage it’s of no worry to him.
Ava is a sweetheart. She’s had a very difficult life after her parents passed. But even before that tragedy accord, secrets come out that broke my heart. Even with all the horrible things she’s gone through she’s still positive and upbeat. But once again anguish comes knocking on her door.
This time she’s caught in the middle of a war between King and her disgusting brother, Carson.
Ava has become collateral damage between two determined men. Hellbent on getting their way.
Like I said I like both the MMC and the FMC.
But both of them had me shaking my head and wanting to yell at them.
As strong and as capable Ava is that girl sure doesn’t know when to choose her battles.
I comprehend the situation she’s in but to show no common sense at times and to put herself in an extreme position was careless and thoughtless. And King at points gave me goosebumps and not the good kind. The antihero almost always has at least one redeeming quality. He always has a soft spot for his woman. Unfortunately I did not feel that with King.
I don’t know if it was just me or if it’s the way his thoughts come across.
I absolutely felt his lust for Ava. That’s there in abundance. It was real tenderness and fondness that’s missing I think.
What they have together is intense and complicated. Their lust sizzles hot and explosive.
Things have become twisted and convoluted. Nothing is going as planned. Nothing is as simple as thought. And decisions and actions need to be made.
I’m looking forward to A Heart so Savage to see the outcome.
**3.5 stars for the first bk of the duet**
Love the bad boy and antihero. And the strong women who captures their attention.
And Kingston is right up there in the bad boy charts.
He’s all kinds of messed up gray. Actually leaning towards the black lol.
King is ruthless, he’s dangerous and shows zero mercy to those who have wronged him.
And those that have wronged him better be on guard because he will most definitely exact his revenge. And if that means others will be collateral damage it’s of no worry to him.
Ava is a sweetheart. She’s had a very difficult life after her parents passed. But even before that tragedy accord, secrets come out that broke my heart. Even with all the horrible things she’s gone through she’s still positive and upbeat. But once again anguish comes knocking on her door.
This time she’s caught in the middle of a war between King and her disgusting brother, Carson.
Ava has become collateral damage between two determined men. Hellbent on getting their way.
Like I said I like both the MMC and the FMC.
But both of them had me shaking my head and wanting to yell at them.
As strong and as capable Ava is that girl sure doesn’t know when to choose her battles.
I comprehend the situation she’s in but to show no common sense at times and to put herself in an extreme position was careless and thoughtless. And King at points gave me goosebumps and not the good kind. The antihero almost always has at least one redeeming quality. He always has a soft spot for his woman. Unfortunately I did not feel that with King.
I don’t know if it was just me or if it’s the way his thoughts come across.
I absolutely felt his lust for Ava. That’s there in abundance. It was real tenderness and fondness that’s missing I think.
What they have together is intense and complicated. Their lust sizzles hot and explosive.
Things have become twisted and convoluted. Nothing is going as planned. Nothing is as simple as thought. And decisions and actions need to be made.
I’m looking forward to A Heart so Savage to see the outcome.
**3.5 stars for the first bk of the duet**
March 24, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
I saw her. I wanted her. I took her.
The money is just and excuse. Her brother's debt? A convenient justification for my obsession. She's been mine since the day I laid eyes on her. Taking her captive stirs up a storm. Her depraved brother wants her back. My own half-brother is determined to snatch my kingdom from me, and my men lust after the woman I've stolen. And she looks at me with reluctant, angry desire every time I touch her. And i touch her every chance I get. She's so bright and shiny-a pretty toy I can break and put back together again and again. She may be my prisoner, but she's got my black heart locked up tight.Well, I won't need that useless lump of muscle and tissue if I lose her. I won't need anything except the blood of our enemies dripping from my hands. I'll rip the heart out of any man who dares hurt her and place it at her fee. Crush-Conquer-Protect When it comes to my wicked little lamb, my personal motto means everything. I'm Kingston Vaughn Winter. And Ava Bella Blue is mine.
This is a dark romance. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book. It will contain triggers for some readers.
Kingston is a man that knows who Ava is. He use to work for her parents and knows all there is to know about her. When her brother finds himself owing Kingston a lot of money he can't pay back, Kingston decides to take her as collateral to see if her brother will pay his debt. There are twists and turns and secrets and secret desires going on in this book. She is determined to get out of Kingstons clutches but knows that that is not possible and the consequences could be horrible if she did try to run and get away. There is no doubt in her mind that he and his staff wouldn't hesitate to hurt her if they had to. But Kingston is determined to protect her from everything he know could happen to her. You are going to love every single second of reading this book.
I saw her. I wanted her. I took her.
The money is just and excuse. Her brother's debt? A convenient justification for my obsession. She's been mine since the day I laid eyes on her. Taking her captive stirs up a storm. Her depraved brother wants her back. My own half-brother is determined to snatch my kingdom from me, and my men lust after the woman I've stolen. And she looks at me with reluctant, angry desire every time I touch her. And i touch her every chance I get. She's so bright and shiny-a pretty toy I can break and put back together again and again. She may be my prisoner, but she's got my black heart locked up tight.Well, I won't need that useless lump of muscle and tissue if I lose her. I won't need anything except the blood of our enemies dripping from my hands. I'll rip the heart out of any man who dares hurt her and place it at her fee. Crush-Conquer-Protect When it comes to my wicked little lamb, my personal motto means everything. I'm Kingston Vaughn Winter. And Ava Bella Blue is mine.
This is a dark romance. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book. It will contain triggers for some readers.
Kingston is a man that knows who Ava is. He use to work for her parents and knows all there is to know about her. When her brother finds himself owing Kingston a lot of money he can't pay back, Kingston decides to take her as collateral to see if her brother will pay his debt. There are twists and turns and secrets and secret desires going on in this book. She is determined to get out of Kingstons clutches but knows that that is not possible and the consequences could be horrible if she did try to run and get away. There is no doubt in her mind that he and his staff wouldn't hesitate to hurt her if they had to. But Kingston is determined to protect her from everything he know could happen to her. You are going to love every single second of reading this book.
June 4, 2023
Ava Bella Blue is sleeping and having a very weird dream not wanting to wake up. As Ava slowly approaches consciousness, she realizes that she not only tied up but held hostage by none other than Kingston Vaughn Winter. Ava really can’t remember how she ended up in Kingston’s clutches. All Ava can remember is stepping onto an elevator and then nothing, it’s all a blank after that. As Ava pieces together why, Kington is keeping her as his prisoner, she can’t help but be entranced by him. Kingston, the alpha billionaire wants to not only possess but dominant Ava’s sweetness and innocence. Kingston wants to destroy Ava because she is a means to an end. Also, Ava’s brother owes Kingston and with Ava the debt will be completely paid. Kingston isn’t one to have feelings, yet Ava cracks his stone-cold heart and harshness. As Ava gets closer to Kingston, she falls for him. Ava is playing with fire especially when she loves the unlovable and the dangerous.
Another innocent and alpha billionaire contemporary story with a little too much Stockholm Syndrome romance going on. The story does move nicely at a good pace but unfortunately, the cliff hanger ending is pretty anti-climactic that it makes me wonder how it will end between these two unlikely protagonists. Why did I even read this story when it isn’t really different and the alpha hero, Kingston is just a total bastard? I wanted to at first and usually like Ms. April Moran’s story I just didn’t care for this one so much. He’s not nice or even very likeable. In fact, throughout the whole story I just couldn’t stand him. He didn’t even seem like he had a heart even though he acted like he did. So, I didn’t even fall for him because I wanted Ava to just hurt him because he just wasn’t a good guy or even redeemable. Okay luckily, Ava was an amazing heroine, and no Kingston didn’t deserve someone like her either. Ava could do so much better too. Since it is a romance will I even want to finish the story? I am not really sure if I want to especially with me not caring too much for the characters or what happens to them.
Another innocent and alpha billionaire contemporary story with a little too much Stockholm Syndrome romance going on. The story does move nicely at a good pace but unfortunately, the cliff hanger ending is pretty anti-climactic that it makes me wonder how it will end between these two unlikely protagonists. Why did I even read this story when it isn’t really different and the alpha hero, Kingston is just a total bastard? I wanted to at first and usually like Ms. April Moran’s story I just didn’t care for this one so much. He’s not nice or even very likeable. In fact, throughout the whole story I just couldn’t stand him. He didn’t even seem like he had a heart even though he acted like he did. So, I didn’t even fall for him because I wanted Ava to just hurt him because he just wasn’t a good guy or even redeemable. Okay luckily, Ava was an amazing heroine, and no Kingston didn’t deserve someone like her either. Ava could do so much better too. Since it is a romance will I even want to finish the story? I am not really sure if I want to especially with me not caring too much for the characters or what happens to them.
January 3, 2024
When Ava Blue was a sophomore in college, her parents died and left her and her brother Carson as orphans. Their parents were very wealthy and left them a hefty inheritance with multiple protectives put in place by their lawyer father to protect them from the impulsive decisions of youth. What they didn't consider, though - was Carson's hatred and mistreatment of Ava and dedication to blowing through every cent he could get his hands on. While he was living large, Ava paid only for bare necessities and saved her allowance from the inheritance and stowed it away.
We open the story with Ava coming to after being drugged and kidnapped by the men of Kingston Winter, the head of the Winter family brought up under his absolute tyrant of a father - until his stepmother shot him and then herself. Since then, Kingston has accepted the role of leader of the family, continued to amass massive fortunes, made decisions he didn't want to but had to, and has wanted Ava Blue since he first set eyes on her as a teenager. Now, Carson has blown through a fortune, borrowed money from anyone willing to loan it, and owes the Winter family to the tune of 2.6 MILLION dollars. He kidnapped Ava as an excuse, hoping Carson doesn't pay. Regardless, now that Ava is in his possession, he doesn't intend to let her go.
There's a lot happening in this book, and I'm constantly cheering on Ava as she taps into her inner wildcat. King is a man used to getting what he wants, no matter the consequences. In many instances, it is against the wishes of someone else and the situation with Ava is no different. Kingston is a gorgeous man, but absolutely brutal - he has no problem taking whatever he desires regardless of other peoples feelings about it, and he treats Ava no differently. In spite of his brutality, Ava is completely drawn to him and disgusted by him and his proposition. While he pretends to consider selling Ava and her virginity to recoup Carson's debt to him, the reality is that he claimed her long ago. Will Ava resist her attraction and get away, or will King keep her?
We open the story with Ava coming to after being drugged and kidnapped by the men of Kingston Winter, the head of the Winter family brought up under his absolute tyrant of a father - until his stepmother shot him and then herself. Since then, Kingston has accepted the role of leader of the family, continued to amass massive fortunes, made decisions he didn't want to but had to, and has wanted Ava Blue since he first set eyes on her as a teenager. Now, Carson has blown through a fortune, borrowed money from anyone willing to loan it, and owes the Winter family to the tune of 2.6 MILLION dollars. He kidnapped Ava as an excuse, hoping Carson doesn't pay. Regardless, now that Ava is in his possession, he doesn't intend to let her go.
There's a lot happening in this book, and I'm constantly cheering on Ava as she taps into her inner wildcat. King is a man used to getting what he wants, no matter the consequences. In many instances, it is against the wishes of someone else and the situation with Ava is no different. Kingston is a gorgeous man, but absolutely brutal - he has no problem taking whatever he desires regardless of other peoples feelings about it, and he treats Ava no differently. In spite of his brutality, Ava is completely drawn to him and disgusted by him and his proposition. While he pretends to consider selling Ava and her virginity to recoup Carson's debt to him, the reality is that he claimed her long ago. Will Ava resist her attraction and get away, or will King keep her?
December 29, 2023
Wow what can I say about this book. It had me gripped from the first page and didn't let go. It is book 1 in The Savage Duet and I definately can't wait to read the second part.
The is a very dark romance. The main male character Kingston is a very dark character. Some may even call him sadistic. When it comes to Ava he is very controlling and he wants her complete submission no matter what it takes to get it.
Ava is also a strong character. I love how feisty and determined she is to protect herself and defend herself however even all Ava's strength and determination can't stop her from falling for the one man she hates and dispises.
Ava and Kingston's paths crossed years earlier when Ava was a young teenager. Ever since that day Kingston was wanted her but out of respect for her father he never made a move. Now with Ava's brother owing him money he sees his opportunity to finally get the woman he wants whether she is willing or not.
It's simple if Ava's brother pays off the debt he will release Ava, if the debt isn't paid then Kingston will sell her to the highest bidder. However as feelings start to grow Kingston realises that no one is ever going to have her but him.
However Ava isn't as willing to go along with this plan. When she is kidnapped she tries everything in her power to escape and she proves herself to be defiant to every things Kingston tells her to do. However it's not long before she can no long deny how her body reacts to him and as much as her head is telling her to fight against it and him, her body is rebelling at every turn.
This is a dark steamy romamce with some topics some people may not enjoy reading. There is the captive/abductor story as well as violence that some readers may feel triggered by.
Overall for me I loved it. The whole cat and mouse feeling to it and how they both tested each other is really what captivated me in the story. I can't wait for the next one
The is a very dark romance. The main male character Kingston is a very dark character. Some may even call him sadistic. When it comes to Ava he is very controlling and he wants her complete submission no matter what it takes to get it.
Ava is also a strong character. I love how feisty and determined she is to protect herself and defend herself however even all Ava's strength and determination can't stop her from falling for the one man she hates and dispises.
Ava and Kingston's paths crossed years earlier when Ava was a young teenager. Ever since that day Kingston was wanted her but out of respect for her father he never made a move. Now with Ava's brother owing him money he sees his opportunity to finally get the woman he wants whether she is willing or not.
It's simple if Ava's brother pays off the debt he will release Ava, if the debt isn't paid then Kingston will sell her to the highest bidder. However as feelings start to grow Kingston realises that no one is ever going to have her but him.
However Ava isn't as willing to go along with this plan. When she is kidnapped she tries everything in her power to escape and she proves herself to be defiant to every things Kingston tells her to do. However it's not long before she can no long deny how her body reacts to him and as much as her head is telling her to fight against it and him, her body is rebelling at every turn.
This is a dark steamy romamce with some topics some people may not enjoy reading. There is the captive/abductor story as well as violence that some readers may feel triggered by.
Overall for me I loved it. The whole cat and mouse feeling to it and how they both tested each other is really what captivated me in the story. I can't wait for the next one
December 30, 2023
A King So Savage (The Savage Duet) by April Moran - Review by Jessica Stone
This book was terrific, I loved every single moment of it to be honest. If you looking for a spicy, reluctant, forced proximity, touch her and die, contemporary dark twisted romance, this is the book for you. I honestly didn't know what I was getting myself into, but it defiantly gave some Den of Vipers/Haunting Adeline vibes with the main characters King's obsession with his captive Ava. This story was masterfully done, the relationships between characters were steamy, an antsy, dark and dangerous, it really just checked all the boxes for me. King being this kind of morally gray character and Ava being portrayed as this naive girl, who should known better but somehow doesn't and coming to terms with who she really is as she grows throughout this book under Kings dare I say tutelage was enjoyable to read.
The premise of this story is basically Ava is kidnapped by King to pay off her brothers debt to him. They know each other from the past, he's always been attracted to her but never acted on that attraction, until now.
I will say this isn't for the faint of heart and by that I mean make sure to check out the trigger warning provided by the author but don't let them dissuade you from reading this book. If you do, you are definitely missing out.
I don't know much about this author, but this book was very well written in my opinion, it flowed cohesively, the plot and story were there and the "romance" was just right. I'm absolutely interested in reading more from this author if this is what her writing is like. Once I picked this booked up it was a struggle to put it down and do other things with my day, I devoured this book.
A King So Savage, The Savage Duet, April Moran, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Dark Romance, Dark, Romance, Jessica Stone, December 2023
This book was terrific, I loved every single moment of it to be honest. If you looking for a spicy, reluctant, forced proximity, touch her and die, contemporary dark twisted romance, this is the book for you. I honestly didn't know what I was getting myself into, but it defiantly gave some Den of Vipers/Haunting Adeline vibes with the main characters King's obsession with his captive Ava. This story was masterfully done, the relationships between characters were steamy, an antsy, dark and dangerous, it really just checked all the boxes for me. King being this kind of morally gray character and Ava being portrayed as this naive girl, who should known better but somehow doesn't and coming to terms with who she really is as she grows throughout this book under Kings dare I say tutelage was enjoyable to read.
The premise of this story is basically Ava is kidnapped by King to pay off her brothers debt to him. They know each other from the past, he's always been attracted to her but never acted on that attraction, until now.
I will say this isn't for the faint of heart and by that I mean make sure to check out the trigger warning provided by the author but don't let them dissuade you from reading this book. If you do, you are definitely missing out.
I don't know much about this author, but this book was very well written in my opinion, it flowed cohesively, the plot and story were there and the "romance" was just right. I'm absolutely interested in reading more from this author if this is what her writing is like. Once I picked this booked up it was a struggle to put it down and do other things with my day, I devoured this book.
A King So Savage, The Savage Duet, April Moran, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Dark Romance, Dark, Romance, Jessica Stone, December 2023
December 10, 2023
Kingston has always wanted Ava and has kidnapped her, using her brother's debt of $2.6 million as his reason. His brother, Oliver, had drugged her in an elevator. Oliver wants to violate her, but Kingston warns him that nobody can touch her. Ava fights by using a paperweight to cut his face. While struggling to get away, there was a loud pop that caused her to scream. Dr.Abbott has to treat Ava while he keeps her in a cell. He didn't like the situation, but he was loyal to Kingston. Ava wakes up from being sedated by the doctor. She hasn't been given food yet, and she doesn't know how long she has slept. Kingston brings her food and wants her to clean up. When Ava doesn't respond and doesn't try to eat, Kingston forces her into the tub and washes her. Humiliated at her situation, she relents by eating. Ava attempts to escape again when Dr. Abbott comes to check her sprained wrist. Kingston, who caught her in the woods, decides he is going to have to punish Ava for her repeated acts of defiance.
This is a slow-burn romance, with April Moran building suspense. There is a subplot that runs where there is resentment from Kingston towards Oliver, as well as Oliver's hatred towards Kingston. Dr. Abbott doesn't like the treatment of Ava, but whatever darker dealings the Winter family is involved in prevents him from helping Ava escape her captivity. The cliffhanger ending has me eager to read the sequel, and I wonder if Carson will make an attempt to steal Ava back. However, I don't know if Carson is really a better option for Ava since he has little regard for her beyond her inheritance money. With a cliffhanger ending, I am eager to read a sequel to this fast-paced story.
This is a slow-burn romance, with April Moran building suspense. There is a subplot that runs where there is resentment from Kingston towards Oliver, as well as Oliver's hatred towards Kingston. Dr. Abbott doesn't like the treatment of Ava, but whatever darker dealings the Winter family is involved in prevents him from helping Ava escape her captivity. The cliffhanger ending has me eager to read the sequel, and I wonder if Carson will make an attempt to steal Ava back. However, I don't know if Carson is really a better option for Ava since he has little regard for her beyond her inheritance money. With a cliffhanger ending, I am eager to read a sequel to this fast-paced story.
December 20, 2023
How could she explain an attraction that shouldn’t exist? ~ Ava
This whole entire book has me feeling this way. Kingston is mean, deranged, broken and well, savage. He is the type of character that sees something he wants, and he takes it. There is no price limit, everything and everyone can be bought. Kingston has the funds, the means, and the ability to acquire anything and everything he wants. He wants Ava. So, he takes her. He uses her sleazy brother’s debt as the reason for taking her but throughout this story there is a deeper feeling, a deep fascination that Kingston has with Ava.
Ava is all that is good. Is she perfect? Not really but she is close. She is a little naive in the world around her. But I like to think she lives in her own little world, trying to make a good life for herself while not causing harm to others. She is not skilled or even very knowledgeable about the world that her brother and Kingston live in. Crime, greed, violence, death. While she has known of Kingston most of her life, she doesn’t know him, until now. Which brings her much confusion. He has basically kidnapped her from her mundane safe life. And brings out feelings she didn’t know she had.
This author touches on some subjects that may cause questions within the reader. Anger, fear, repulsion, concern, lust, interest, confusion to name a few. This story is violent, sexy in a rough way, and being a romantic at heart I can see the underlying hope for a happily ever after. Even if the HEA means these two characters are far away from each other. This story is the first part of the duet so there is not a HEA ...not even a happily ever after for now…
Already starting the 2nd part of this duet because the writing is so addicting.
This whole entire book has me feeling this way. Kingston is mean, deranged, broken and well, savage. He is the type of character that sees something he wants, and he takes it. There is no price limit, everything and everyone can be bought. Kingston has the funds, the means, and the ability to acquire anything and everything he wants. He wants Ava. So, he takes her. He uses her sleazy brother’s debt as the reason for taking her but throughout this story there is a deeper feeling, a deep fascination that Kingston has with Ava.
Ava is all that is good. Is she perfect? Not really but she is close. She is a little naive in the world around her. But I like to think she lives in her own little world, trying to make a good life for herself while not causing harm to others. She is not skilled or even very knowledgeable about the world that her brother and Kingston live in. Crime, greed, violence, death. While she has known of Kingston most of her life, she doesn’t know him, until now. Which brings her much confusion. He has basically kidnapped her from her mundane safe life. And brings out feelings she didn’t know she had.
This author touches on some subjects that may cause questions within the reader. Anger, fear, repulsion, concern, lust, interest, confusion to name a few. This story is violent, sexy in a rough way, and being a romantic at heart I can see the underlying hope for a happily ever after. Even if the HEA means these two characters are far away from each other. This story is the first part of the duet so there is not a HEA ...not even a happily ever after for now…
Already starting the 2nd part of this duet because the writing is so addicting.
February 17, 2024
Oh be still my beating heart and shattered nerves ! Ava and Kingston were the reason my blood pressure was sky high and my heart beat so erratic 😱🔥
Kingston is a man who wants what he wants and if he can’t buy it it get it willingly he’ll take it and Ava is no different , he wants her , he claims her , he owns her ! He is savage . He is cruel . He is dominant. He is dark . He is a bully .
I can’t help but have a soft spot for him because every “ monster” has a story of how and why they are who and what they are and every “ monster” has a weak spot and Ava will soften Kingston .
I don’t want to focus on Ava’s brother Carson because he’s a waste of space and shouldn’t be allowed to breathe the air we do and it’s because of him Ava is in the predicament she is and that make me sick to to pit of my stomach but my “ dark side” wants to say thank you because she has Kingston and he’ll go to the ends of the earth for her ( yes for his reasons but she’s still his priority ) I know my twisted side likes to comes out and play 🙈🤣🔥
I could just feel Ava’s initial confusion when she comes out of her drugged state , I could feel her her fear , frustration , humiliation and hurt and the story unfolds , Ava has some fight in her though I remember her attacking Kingston in the beginning with an ornament and she gets quite fierce and feisty and she wasn’t easily subdued🤣🤩
If dark, sadistic , violent and mature content isn’t for you avoid this or at least try and look past it and see the characters and their story , see the bond that Kingston had with Garrett ( Ava’s dad) see the pain these people have to experience in their lives , see what it’s made them and how they’ve overcome it … see why I love them 😍
Kingston is a man who wants what he wants and if he can’t buy it it get it willingly he’ll take it and Ava is no different , he wants her , he claims her , he owns her ! He is savage . He is cruel . He is dominant. He is dark . He is a bully .
I can’t help but have a soft spot for him because every “ monster” has a story of how and why they are who and what they are and every “ monster” has a weak spot and Ava will soften Kingston .
I don’t want to focus on Ava’s brother Carson because he’s a waste of space and shouldn’t be allowed to breathe the air we do and it’s because of him Ava is in the predicament she is and that make me sick to to pit of my stomach but my “ dark side” wants to say thank you because she has Kingston and he’ll go to the ends of the earth for her ( yes for his reasons but she’s still his priority ) I know my twisted side likes to comes out and play 🙈🤣🔥
I could just feel Ava’s initial confusion when she comes out of her drugged state , I could feel her her fear , frustration , humiliation and hurt and the story unfolds , Ava has some fight in her though I remember her attacking Kingston in the beginning with an ornament and she gets quite fierce and feisty and she wasn’t easily subdued🤣🤩
If dark, sadistic , violent and mature content isn’t for you avoid this or at least try and look past it and see the characters and their story , see the bond that Kingston had with Garrett ( Ava’s dad) see the pain these people have to experience in their lives , see what it’s made them and how they’ve overcome it … see why I love them 😍
March 22, 2023
3.5 Stars-Lots of Lip Service
While the book is dark, it wasn’t my type of dark, or at least the dark genre I am used to. April Moran introduces readers to Kingston Winter and his prize Ava Blue. Excellent character names!
Kingston is all kinds of messed up from his rotten childhood and as the blurb says, took Ava for collateral on her brother’s debt. A brother who is also messed up like King. Not to mention King’s brother Oliver, who is also a member of the messed up club. This girl is surrounded by nutjobs, so of course the only way for her to survive this nightmare long enough to get away, is to play along as best as she can.
I really had a difficult time meshing with this storyline. It felt like a lot of talk and no real action. Not that these two needed any kind of chemistry because Kingston was going to have her no matter what, but the banter felt pithy and immature. It didn’t seem like any “bad guy” would take the kind of crap she was throwing. It was almost as if the author wanted to go dark, but didn’t want to fully cross the line. That said, I am interested in the information Kingston is withholding from Ava about her family.
The book was well written, however it didn't tickle my dark fancy. In an ass backwards way, the “bad guy” would somehow redeem himself in my eyes and actually be likable by the end, but I didn’t find that with Kingston Winter. The book is the first in a duet and leaves readers with some unanswered questions for sure.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog
While the book is dark, it wasn’t my type of dark, or at least the dark genre I am used to. April Moran introduces readers to Kingston Winter and his prize Ava Blue. Excellent character names!
Kingston is all kinds of messed up from his rotten childhood and as the blurb says, took Ava for collateral on her brother’s debt. A brother who is also messed up like King. Not to mention King’s brother Oliver, who is also a member of the messed up club. This girl is surrounded by nutjobs, so of course the only way for her to survive this nightmare long enough to get away, is to play along as best as she can.
I really had a difficult time meshing with this storyline. It felt like a lot of talk and no real action. Not that these two needed any kind of chemistry because Kingston was going to have her no matter what, but the banter felt pithy and immature. It didn’t seem like any “bad guy” would take the kind of crap she was throwing. It was almost as if the author wanted to go dark, but didn’t want to fully cross the line. That said, I am interested in the information Kingston is withholding from Ava about her family.
The book was well written, however it didn't tickle my dark fancy. In an ass backwards way, the “bad guy” would somehow redeem himself in my eyes and actually be likable by the end, but I didn’t find that with Kingston Winter. The book is the first in a duet and leaves readers with some unanswered questions for sure.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog
December 25, 2023
A delicious and devious way to start the duet. There are so many characters that you don’t know how you feel about them until. There are many theme and trigger warnings with this one so be sure to pay attention. This one is way too good to not finish.
Ava leads a boring life. Her boyfriend is nice. Her job is fine. She is scraping by. But it is not that easy. Her brother is kind of a jerk. He has spent his way through the family fortune and is racking up huge debts he can’t pay.
Kingston has always known who and what he is. His father left no doubt or way he could be anything but. When Ava crossed his path the first time, she was too young and he wasn’t ready. Now he has a chance-ish to be with Ava, the girl that has haunted his dreams since she was just a knobby-kneed teen.
Thanks to her brother and unbeknownst to Ava, Ava was about to be sold to the highest bidder to cover some of the money the brother owes some bad people. Kingston just steps in first and takes Ava. Now he is holding her until the brother pays. The problem is twofold. One, Kingston wants Ava. Two, the brother doesn’t really want to pay the money back.
How will Ava escape with her mind and body intact? Does she really want to? Who can you trust when everyone else is looking out for themselves and using you to get what they want? Can you trust the one person that wants everything but is willing to give nothing in return? Or is no one and nothing what they seem? Hang on to your knickers while you find out.
Ava leads a boring life. Her boyfriend is nice. Her job is fine. She is scraping by. But it is not that easy. Her brother is kind of a jerk. He has spent his way through the family fortune and is racking up huge debts he can’t pay.
Kingston has always known who and what he is. His father left no doubt or way he could be anything but. When Ava crossed his path the first time, she was too young and he wasn’t ready. Now he has a chance-ish to be with Ava, the girl that has haunted his dreams since she was just a knobby-kneed teen.
Thanks to her brother and unbeknownst to Ava, Ava was about to be sold to the highest bidder to cover some of the money the brother owes some bad people. Kingston just steps in first and takes Ava. Now he is holding her until the brother pays. The problem is twofold. One, Kingston wants Ava. Two, the brother doesn’t really want to pay the money back.
How will Ava escape with her mind and body intact? Does she really want to? Who can you trust when everyone else is looking out for themselves and using you to get what they want? Can you trust the one person that wants everything but is willing to give nothing in return? Or is no one and nothing what they seem? Hang on to your knickers while you find out.
March 22, 2023
First, a special thank you to April Moran for allowing me to be an ARC reader. Make no mistake, this book has very dark themes which I know may be uncomfortable for some readers. My review will contain SPOILERS:
Kingston Winter is not your typical hero... in fact, he's a very dark, violent, and sadistic. He's an admitted murderer and kidnapper (of the heroine, Ava Blue). He is a wealthy businessman and dominant underworld character at the same time. He has Ava kidnapped to erase her brother Carson's debt, because he owes Kingston 2.6 million dollars. If Carson refuses to pay back the money he owes him, Kingston threatens to auction Ava's virginity off to other men, or keep her for himself.
Ava, who is 24, is innocent of any wrong doing, but she is used rather ruthlessly as a pawn by Kingston. He keeps her imprisoned in his mansion, taking away her freedom and choices. You cannot help but feel the absolute fear, helplessness, and humiliation she experiences. King wants Ava's complete obedience and threatens her with serious repercussions if she tries to run away or does not obey him. Believe me, he follows through with his threats, and I wanted to kill him for his initial treatment of her! However, Ava is determined to escape and be in charge of her life, and she does not hesitate to tell King how twisted she thinks he is when pleading for her freedom. She even gives him a few bruises and bite marks to make her point!
Ava has not had an easy life since her parents' death when she was a sophomore in college. Her scumbag brother (who we do not meet in this book) has been unbelievably horrible to her. She had cut ties with him and was starting a new life in Savannah at the time of her kidnapping. Through his own contacts, Kingston learns Carson had his own plans to sell poor Ava to the highest bidder.
Kingston, you will discover, had a horrific upbringing by an abusive father. This gives an insight as to why he thinks and acts the way he does, but to me this does not excuse his actions. King is obsessively attracted to Ava and has been for years. Despite his threats to sell her to other men, his possessive behavior speaks just he opposite. He trusts very few people and threatens the men who work for him to not touch her or they will face dire consequences. Kingston tries to deny to himself that he is starting to care for Ava, yet he will do anything to protect her. She is deeply attracted to King and is ready to submit to him at the end of the book. Ava thinks this is a weaknesss on her part, but it's not. She's a survivor and it has taken great internal strength to overcome the tragedies of her past and live through the present and unknown future.
I don't know how Ms. Moran will redeem Kingston in the second book, but I hope it's Ava's love that will save him from his own demons.
.
Merged review:
First, a special thank you to April Moran for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I'm a big fan of her historical romance books and I highly recommend them! Now, for "A King So Savage"... Make no mistake, this book has very dark themes which may be uncomfortable for some readers. I did a little squirming myself, but I was totally engrossed and read it two times! This review will contain SPOILERS:
Kingston Winter is not your typical hero. In fact, he's a dark, violent, and rather sadistic. He's also an admitted murderer and kidnapper (of the heroine, Ava Blue). He's a wealthy businessman and underworld character at the same time. He has kidnapped Ava because her brother Carson owes him 2.6 million dollars, and he uses her to erase her brother's debt. If Carson refuses to pay back the money he owes him, Kingston threatens to auction Ava's virginity to other men or keep her for himself.
Ava, who is 24, is innocent of any wrongdoing, and she is used rather ruthlessly as a pawn by Kingston. He keeps her a prisoner in his mansion, taking away her freedom and all her choices. You cannot help but feel the fear, helplessness, and humiliation she experiences. There is a constant battle of wills between the two of them. King wants her complete obedience and threatens her with serious repercussions if she tries to run away or disobeys him. Believe me, he follows through with these threats, and I wanted to do him bodily harm for his initial treatment of her. However, Ava is determined to escape and be in charge of her life. She doesn't hesitate to tell King how depraved and twisted she thinks he is, and to prove her point, he's even left with a few bruises and bite marks!
Ava has not had any easy life since her parents' death when she was a sophomore in college. Her scumbag brother (who is not actually in this book) has been absolutely horrible to her. She had cut ties with him and was starting a new life in Savannah at the time of her kidnapping. Through his own contacts, Kingston has learned that Carson has his own plans to sell poor Ava to the highest bidder.
Kingston, you will discover, had a horrific upbringing by his abusive father. This gives an insight as to why he thinks and acts the way he does, but still does not excuse his offensive behavior. He is obsessively attracted to Ava and has been for years, and despite threats to sell her virginity off to other men (which is his way of controlling her), his possessive behavior speaks just the opposite. He doesn't even trust most of the men who work for him, including his vicious half-brother (wait to you meet this nut job), to even be near her. Kingston denies that he is starting to care for Ava, yet he will do anything to protect her. He's at war with his own conscience, but doesn't know how to save her from himself. He's a man too used to having his way in EVERYTHING.
Despite yearning for freedom, Ava is torn because of her own deep attraction to Kingston. She's ashamed and thinks this is a weakness on her part, but it's not. Ava has a great capacity to love which she hasn't been able to share with anyone since her parents' death. She's a survivor, and that inner strength has not only gotten her through past tragedies, it's what she uses to live in the present, and to fight for her future.
I want more of Kingston and Ava and can't wait to read "A Heart So Savage." I don't know how Ms. Moran is going to redeem Kingston, but I have absolute faith in her writing skills. I have a feeling Ava is going come out ahead in order to save him from his own demons.
Kingston Winter is not your typical hero... in fact, he's a very dark, violent, and sadistic. He's an admitted murderer and kidnapper (of the heroine, Ava Blue). He is a wealthy businessman and dominant underworld character at the same time. He has Ava kidnapped to erase her brother Carson's debt, because he owes Kingston 2.6 million dollars. If Carson refuses to pay back the money he owes him, Kingston threatens to auction Ava's virginity off to other men, or keep her for himself.
Ava, who is 24, is innocent of any wrong doing, but she is used rather ruthlessly as a pawn by Kingston. He keeps her imprisoned in his mansion, taking away her freedom and choices. You cannot help but feel the absolute fear, helplessness, and humiliation she experiences. King wants Ava's complete obedience and threatens her with serious repercussions if she tries to run away or does not obey him. Believe me, he follows through with his threats, and I wanted to kill him for his initial treatment of her! However, Ava is determined to escape and be in charge of her life, and she does not hesitate to tell King how twisted she thinks he is when pleading for her freedom. She even gives him a few bruises and bite marks to make her point!
Ava has not had an easy life since her parents' death when she was a sophomore in college. Her scumbag brother (who we do not meet in this book) has been unbelievably horrible to her. She had cut ties with him and was starting a new life in Savannah at the time of her kidnapping. Through his own contacts, Kingston learns Carson had his own plans to sell poor Ava to the highest bidder.
Kingston, you will discover, had a horrific upbringing by an abusive father. This gives an insight as to why he thinks and acts the way he does, but to me this does not excuse his actions. King is obsessively attracted to Ava and has been for years. Despite his threats to sell her to other men, his possessive behavior speaks just he opposite. He trusts very few people and threatens the men who work for him to not touch her or they will face dire consequences. Kingston tries to deny to himself that he is starting to care for Ava, yet he will do anything to protect her. She is deeply attracted to King and is ready to submit to him at the end of the book. Ava thinks this is a weaknesss on her part, but it's not. She's a survivor and it has taken great internal strength to overcome the tragedies of her past and live through the present and unknown future.
I don't know how Ms. Moran will redeem Kingston in the second book, but I hope it's Ava's love that will save him from his own demons.
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Merged review:
First, a special thank you to April Moran for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I'm a big fan of her historical romance books and I highly recommend them! Now, for "A King So Savage"... Make no mistake, this book has very dark themes which may be uncomfortable for some readers. I did a little squirming myself, but I was totally engrossed and read it two times! This review will contain SPOILERS:
Kingston Winter is not your typical hero. In fact, he's a dark, violent, and rather sadistic. He's also an admitted murderer and kidnapper (of the heroine, Ava Blue). He's a wealthy businessman and underworld character at the same time. He has kidnapped Ava because her brother Carson owes him 2.6 million dollars, and he uses her to erase her brother's debt. If Carson refuses to pay back the money he owes him, Kingston threatens to auction Ava's virginity to other men or keep her for himself.
Ava, who is 24, is innocent of any wrongdoing, and she is used rather ruthlessly as a pawn by Kingston. He keeps her a prisoner in his mansion, taking away her freedom and all her choices. You cannot help but feel the fear, helplessness, and humiliation she experiences. There is a constant battle of wills between the two of them. King wants her complete obedience and threatens her with serious repercussions if she tries to run away or disobeys him. Believe me, he follows through with these threats, and I wanted to do him bodily harm for his initial treatment of her. However, Ava is determined to escape and be in charge of her life. She doesn't hesitate to tell King how depraved and twisted she thinks he is, and to prove her point, he's even left with a few bruises and bite marks!
Ava has not had any easy life since her parents' death when she was a sophomore in college. Her scumbag brother (who is not actually in this book) has been absolutely horrible to her. She had cut ties with him and was starting a new life in Savannah at the time of her kidnapping. Through his own contacts, Kingston has learned that Carson has his own plans to sell poor Ava to the highest bidder.
Kingston, you will discover, had a horrific upbringing by his abusive father. This gives an insight as to why he thinks and acts the way he does, but still does not excuse his offensive behavior. He is obsessively attracted to Ava and has been for years, and despite threats to sell her virginity off to other men (which is his way of controlling her), his possessive behavior speaks just the opposite. He doesn't even trust most of the men who work for him, including his vicious half-brother (wait to you meet this nut job), to even be near her. Kingston denies that he is starting to care for Ava, yet he will do anything to protect her. He's at war with his own conscience, but doesn't know how to save her from himself. He's a man too used to having his way in EVERYTHING.
Despite yearning for freedom, Ava is torn because of her own deep attraction to Kingston. She's ashamed and thinks this is a weakness on her part, but it's not. Ava has a great capacity to love which she hasn't been able to share with anyone since her parents' death. She's a survivor, and that inner strength has not only gotten her through past tragedies, it's what she uses to live in the present, and to fight for her future.
I want more of Kingston and Ava and can't wait to read "A Heart So Savage." I don't know how Ms. Moran is going to redeem Kingston, but I have absolute faith in her writing skills. I have a feeling Ava is going come out ahead in order to save him from his own demons.
December 11, 2023
Kingston King is not the type of man you want to cross, so when Ava's brother owes a large sum of money to him he takes action.
He decides to show he means business and kidnaps Ava as collateral for her brother to pay back his money, but when everyone notice Ava and Kingston starts to feel an attraction to her, he has to touch her all the time but this woman may look feeble but she has a bite which excites him but as this goes on his prisoner is attracting looks from his men and with the battles within will either destroy him or make him stronger.
His obsession maybe the thing that breaks him.
This is the first book by this author I have read and I really enjoy the story and the characters. Kingston is a Alpha character who you at first hate as he shows no redeeming qualities at all, but as you read through the story there are snippets of the person he is with Ava, he shows some compassion and you can see his idea of love.
I love a strong female character in a story especially when you think she will be a whimpering female in distress but she gave Kingston as good as he gets with her fire and determination. The story was well written and developed and the main characters had all the angst of a good dark romance, the secondary characters gave the story another depth to the story.
I can't wait to read part 2 and see what happens to these two broken characters and can they make it work between them.
He decides to show he means business and kidnaps Ava as collateral for her brother to pay back his money, but when everyone notice Ava and Kingston starts to feel an attraction to her, he has to touch her all the time but this woman may look feeble but she has a bite which excites him but as this goes on his prisoner is attracting looks from his men and with the battles within will either destroy him or make him stronger.
His obsession maybe the thing that breaks him.
This is the first book by this author I have read and I really enjoy the story and the characters. Kingston is a Alpha character who you at first hate as he shows no redeeming qualities at all, but as you read through the story there are snippets of the person he is with Ava, he shows some compassion and you can see his idea of love.
I love a strong female character in a story especially when you think she will be a whimpering female in distress but she gave Kingston as good as he gets with her fire and determination. The story was well written and developed and the main characters had all the angst of a good dark romance, the secondary characters gave the story another depth to the story.
I can't wait to read part 2 and see what happens to these two broken characters and can they make it work between them.
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