Locked Promises

4.5 Stars

These two authors delivered one heck of a 2nd book to this series. I can't get enough of it and I absolutely and thoroughly have been enjoying it.

It is so different from what I have been reading and maybe it's because of the theme of the story, I don't know but I for sure know that I am loving it.

This series has kept me on my toes, the mystery, the angst and all the drama will certainly keep you entertained!

I can't wait for the next book!

BobbiJo

812 reviews

Ahhhh I needed this second book so bad!

It was WONDERFUL! A lot of secrets were revealed, but of course more popped up.

The bonds in the group were strengthened greatly, even Ash’s once he got his crap together.

This book flowed great from book one. The spice on it was fantastic, as is the plot.

Of course there’s a cliff hanger that’s going to gut you BUT I can promise it’s not as bad as book one’s.

ashlee ❤

1,923 reviews104 followers

-whychoose ⚔️
-religious academy
-forbidden aspects

This picks up right at the dramatic & traumatic ending of the first one & answers a lot of our questions…but really leads to a lot more. There are some extra side character povs that had me confused for a little bit some of the time but the cliffy at the end has me BIGGG time confused soooo we just need the last book now so I can know what’s going on. 😂😂

Sierra

41 reviews

June 30, 2024

Firstly and most importantly; the roast of Ash: I waited the entire book for Ash to pull his head outta his a$$ and stop treating Chastity so toxically, for apparently nothing. I cheered for Chas when she told Ash that one day he would be on his knees begging her forgiveness because of what he’d said about her, only for them to just sleep together in the end without him changing anything?!? He made me so mad the way he gambled with the trials, and treated Chastity for literally no real reason. He was constantly overstepping and almost controlling of the guys because of his irrational insecurities, which he just continued to practically lord over everyone when they confronted him about it. Jonah did not deserve to be yo-yo-ed around by Ash being so hot and cold and dismissive of him, he was really rather toxic in both of his ‘relationships’ and with his team. I really hope to see him make some changes after the ending of this book, and there better be some authentic groveling on his part.

The secret society irked me; it was very unclear what it’s actually purpose was, so I wasn’t even sure if it was a ‘good’ or a ‘bad’ society until we get a little more vague info about what they do. How they regarded Chastity’s ‘parents’ and the reaction to human trafficking were the most telling details about their mission, goals, and purpose. I couldn’t even fully trust the MMC’s because I just didn’t understand their purpose and why they were so adamant about this society. And the creed of the Locked Souls Society…? Ridiculous and nonsensical. I could barely take the whole thing seriously because of the lack of details and elaboration for one of the biggest, if not the biggest, component of the books. ALSO, my mind was boggled by the ultra religious, super secret society in a monastery ran by zealous Catholics condoning and supporting polyamorous relationships… let alone the whole Adam and Eve thing… like I know it’s fiction, but help me understand!?!

Was def surprised by this book, it was very different than book 1, but a good continuation of Chastity’s story. I like how she’s growing, and love her relationship with Levi. I just knew once he learned what had happened to her and why he was punishing her, he would be her biggest advocate and supporter and he really was. While I wish their relationship progression had been a bit different in some ways, I understood how and why it changed so quickly, and was surprisingly okay with it even though I was apprehensive. I like Jonah and Bast too, but Bast’s reactions to some things have been a bit bothersome for me when he acts to sweet to her and has been hooked since day 1. Lost some respect for him when they found that picture after the first trial, but def not as much as I lost for Ash.

Finally, (maybe small spoiler?) a big WTF to Tempest for somehow getting preggo by her estranged step brother, and his FATHER… is that her step daddy? Conversations between her and Chas made it seem like King and Roman knew she was with them both?!? I was super confused about the whole thing, especially since she seduced Roman, who was also a priest…? But King hadn’t been religious before his new GF Holly…. It was just soooo confusing and it’s still just bugging me, especially because of the year and a half time jump at the end.

Hopefully the last book will fix some of the problems the series has. The plot holes are way more problematic than the less descriptive writing style used, but between the both of them, this book just left a lot to be desired, even though it was really interesting and emotional.

Jacklyn B

1,279 reviews55 followers

I absolutely loved Locked Hearts so I was very excited to get my hands on the next book in the series - Locked Promises. You MUST read Locked Hearts first as this book picks up seconds after the other ends. The first book was a book full of questions and I am happy to say this book is full of answers…and more questions!

🖤If you have triggers, please check the TWs before proceeding🖤

“I won’t let pain turn my heart into something ugly. I will show you that surviving can be beautiful.” - Christy Ann Martine

Levi and the guys were devastated when they found Chastity. After rushing her to the hospital they wait around to see if she will wake up again. They are dealing with a lot of guilt and confusion. They come up with a plan to keep Chastity safe, but she is by no means out of the woods yet. As she continues to heal, more and more memories come to the surface.

“Be her champion…but don’t cut her wings.”

We learn more about Jacob and his role in the Locked Souls Society and also how much he knew about what was happening to Chastity. Perhaps he has a few secrets of his own? Tempest is back in town and she has some news of her own. The Adams continue to work towards passing their trials. Along the way we learn more about their background and some trauma they dealt with as children. We also get more answers about the Society and some of the members. Will Chastity be able to heal from her trauma? Will she see Angel again? Will all the guys make it alive through the initiation and get their Eve? Will Ash ever get his head out of his ass???

This book definitely has more spice than the first with one scene in particular that is very satisfying to read. There are some delicious twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.

Just because we got a lot of answers does not mean we are left with no questions. This book ends on two different cliffhangers that left me so shocked I could barely get off the couch!! Holy Hell I can not wait for the third book!

I feel like I need to mention that it was an absolute joy to see some of Chastity's family members getting what is coming to them.

Tropes
😈Secret Society
😈Unbreakable friendships
😈RH
😈Multi POV
😈Virgin MCs
😈MM
😈FMC that refuses to stay broken

Kristina Gehrls

278 reviews

July 30, 2023

Locked Promises by Amber Nicole and Jenn Bullard is book two in the Society of the Locked Souls trilogy. These books have dark triggers so be sure to check your TWs before reading. Also you will need to have read the first book, Locked Hearts, or you will be lost. I knew book two was also going to come with its own wild twists and turns. If you want your mind to be blown with steamy scenes, relationship building, character growth and an ending that will leave you waiting for book three, then you really need to read this book right away (make sure you’ve read book one first though). I couldn’t put this book down. Yes, this book has a lot more spice than the first book but the story flows well and is so well written. Jenn and Amber are absolutely one of my favorite duos.

Chasity has a team of wonderful men to help aide her. She is someone that has gone through hell and back and they are all able to help each other heal. Definitely felt a lot more connected to the guys in this one. I loved seeing our sweet Chastity start to finally believe in herself and start speaking up for herself! I loved learning more about the Adams’ and I would love to have a Levi of my very own.

The character development in these books was amazing. Jenn & Amber really know how to write a good plottwist and a cliffhanger that will have you thinking about it for days. I need the next book right now. I have to know what is going to happen. This book is absolutley amazing. I am addicted to this series and I guarantee you do not want to miss it!!

L C

195 reviews2 followers

July 14, 2023

The biggest question I have after reading is Jen and Amber, who hurt you that you enjoy hurting us so much? If you thought Locked Hearts stamped on your heart then buckle up my dears because this ripped my heart out, stamped on it, patched it up, put a bow on it and then gave it a kick for good measure.

Please do not read this if you have not read Locked Hearts otherwise you won't fully follow the story or appreciate the emotional rollercoaster. Please also heed the trigger warnings, they are real. Even as someone who has no triggers I felt I had to pause at times.

Notwithstanding the above, I will say that this is a much happier read than Locked Hearts and I am so pleased to see not only Chasity begin to have confidence in standing up for herself but also be treated better, as she should be, by her guys (side eye to one in particular who is slow to the game) and begin to get her HEA. The development and revelations about her brother, Jacob, and Grandmother, Mother Cross, were much needed after the events of last book and helped heal my heart knowing that she has people on her side. I also really enjoyed getting to know the Adam's more and their history which explains why they are the way that they are. Whilst the story telling is great the spice is even better. The wedding night is hot but the Adam scenes are just *chef kiss*

The cliffy queens do it again leaving us begging for more though so be prepared for a cliff dive!

Renee

5,216 reviews73 followers

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the second book in the Society of the Locked Souls. You will need to have read the first book, Locked Hearts or you will be lost. This book picks back up where the first one left off. I don't even really know how to tell you a lot about the plot of this book and not give something away. A lot happens in this book. From the moment you pick it up until you finish the last word you will not put it down. I loved being back with Chastity and watching her get stronger and get her voice back. I know that I had questions for Locked Hearts and if you did too you will get some answers in this book. I loved that we got Tempest back in this book. She is just what the Dr. ordered and I loved the friendship these two have for each other. Soul mates are what they are and that friendship is going to be lifelong. That's how strong it is. I loved learning more about the Adams and oh my I have to have a Levi of my very own. That man stole my heart in this book and I don't want it back. The enemy in this book is a little bit revealed and just when you think they have all found perfection, bam slapped right in the face with a shocking moment and the end of the book. I need the next book right this second. I have to know what is going to happen. I am addicted to this series and y'all do not want to miss it.

SmuttySiren (Lenore)

75 reviews1 follower

2023-reads academy age-gap

Book 2 in the Society of the Locked Souls, I was so ready to jump in. The cliffhanger from Locked Hearts left me reeling and I needed answers! We pick up where we left off in Locked Hearts and right from the beginning things are moving. However, if possible, I actually felt like we may have moved a little TOO quickly. We were chillin comfy in Slow Burn Town and kinda hopped the bullet train to InstaLove City in about 8 chapters and to be honest, it was a little jarring 😬

I did love Chastity’s growth and seeing her feel a little more secure and a little more forceful in getting her needs met, and I was happy to see her finally receiving care, comfort and support from a whole wide variety of angles because girl NEEDED IT. We get some insight on back stories and what makes these characters tick and even a little bit of revenge and resolution for those stories pretty quickly and wrapped in a nice bow. BUT, I still feel like overall it was a bit scattered. A little heavy on the seasonings for this plot stew if you will, however, while I’m still not entirely sure I know what’s going on or where we are going, the plot has enough of a hook that I want to ride it out and finish it.

Overall, the foundation is there and I will be finishing out the series 👍

Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice - 🔥🔥/5

AllieTurnsPages_

111 reviews24 followers

Jenn & Amber brought their A game with the second book in this trilogy , that’s for sure! We get a lot of answers to so many questions that I know I have personally been pondering upon the release of this book following the last! An when I tell you NOTHING pulls at my heart strings more than seeing our sweet Chas start to finally believe in herself an start speaking up for herself! It’s so cute how she seems to surprise herself so often by things she says 🤭 Grandmother is still a dragggg, ahhh. I was shocked she was as ok as she was with Levi & Chas. But the two of them, literally perfection! he has done amazing with Chas since finding so much stuff out! I still want to ring Bast’s neck , ahh that boy!!! I am glad we got a further look into the Adams lives in this book! We found so much stuff out an still need so many answers, Hellppp the time jump 🤯 I’m not freaking out though- we have one more book an I can’t wait to see how many more WTF’s and OMGs Jenn & Amber give us when they bring it all to a closure!

I was so happy to have the return of Tempest! I love her so much, an she was CRUCIAL to this story an Chas’ recovery! I’ve heard we are going to get a spin off of her? YESS I can’t wait !!

M Mendes Bookstagram

725 reviews48 followers

August 5, 2023

Wow…cliffhangers!! Locked Promises answered some question but also added some too. Not totally unexpected since it is the middle of the Society of Locked Souls series. Locked Promises is filled with lots of my favorite elements (drama, angst, twists, turns, things going sideways, secrets, revelations, all the feels, and lots and lots of heat). Locked Promises, also, has some triggers so please read the trigger warnings. Locked Promises is a dark romance so having triggers shouldn’t be such a shocker but some readers might start reading and then they come across something that will surprise them. I personally can’t wait to see what happens next. Jenn and Amber have a way with telling a story that will keep you captivated and wanting more. I have not been disappointed with any of their books. So if you love dark romances with lots of surprises then you will love the Society of Locked Souls series starting with Locked Hearts and if you already read Locked Hearts then you will love Locked Promises!! I highly recommend Locked Promises (only after reading Locked Hearts), Society of Locked Souls, and Amber and Nicole as authors!! Happy reading.

Christine Marie

398 reviews24 followers

July 16, 2023

Why Choose
🔓 MM
🗝️ SPICYYY 🤤
🔓 Dark Academia
🗝️V!rgin MMC

Thank you @ambernicoleauthor and @author_jenn_bullard for the opportunity to read and review.

5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Picking up right where that cliffhanger in book 1 ended this was oooooh my lawd fast paced rollercoaster that took me on an adventure. I love Chasity and her man and the boys that have a piece of her heart even if they don’t want her too. More and more of Chasity past is revealed but also so many questions ! And another cliffhanger. Kill me slowly please. 😭 please don’t make me wait a year 🙏.

This spice scenes in book one were woah, but it does not compare to book 2. I couldn’t be in more love with this even as someone who isn’t religious this secret society Catholic dark academia is 😍.

I cannot get over the choke hold this story has on my heart with the I gotta know the end.

❤️‍🔥If you enjoy dark academia, slightly taboo, long listed trigger warnings and plenty of spicy that’ll leave you breathy and needing a break or two 😏 this will be the series for you.

Ellie

735 reviews21 followers

I swear Jenn & Amber are crazy when it comes to cliffhangers. I'm already ready for the next book because damn these cliffhangers don't let up. Back to this book.

We pick up right where Book 1 leaves off, thankfully, and we get some answers that we so desperately needed. But, we also get some brand new questions that leave you saying wtf, multiple times. I usually don't have this hard of a time picking a favorite, but I am this time, right now though Levi is winning. Chas has gone through so much, and I honestly can't wait to see how these amazing authors will bring about her HEA.

Also, book 3, better be lots of groveling for someone, looking at you Ash, you bullheaded character. Like WHAT. UGH. I don't know what to do now that we've gotta wait for the next book, and the last bit of this book.... just threw me for a loop. I knew it was coming but I was into the book so much I didn't realize how quickly the end was coming.

As always, check the TW/CW, the queen of cliffs do it again.

Michelle Ann

712 reviews30 followers

July 12, 2023

Do you know the cartoon where the female sees a male that she likes and her eyes bug out and it's pulsing heart eyes? Yeah that's me with Father Levi. Father Levi. Boi-oi-oing.

Forgive me, father for I have sinned should now be changed to Sorry, daddy, I've been naughty. Like Holy ish.

This book takes us on the wonderful journey back with Chastity. It picks up after that brutal cliffhanger the authors so nicely left us on. And this book also delves into the beautiful relationship between Chastity and Levi. The other guys weren't left in the dust and they still did get their POVs but their relationships with Chas took a back seat as we dive in head first with Levi and Chas. And that's ok. I feel the authors have something up their sleeve. Maybe more development in book 3?

This book is chock full of smutty goodness, secrets and revelations as Chastity prepares to take her rightful place as an Eve. I can't wait for book 3 and for Ash's novella.

Vallene Boddington

818 reviews35 followers

Excellent secret society RH read

An addictive secret society read with religious connotations filled with mystery and found family.
Wonderfully written by 'trauma ladies ' co-authored Amber Nicole and Jenn Bullard. They have created these dynamic characters with traumatic backgrounds and given them these impossible situations to survive.
The intensity and suspense make for unpredictable read. The spice is unputdownable and swoonworthy. The healing. Chastity and Levi are just awesome couples, and Levi's knows how to give Chas her strength. With her determination, she finds her voice and her spine. The growth is beautiful to read.
Every why choose needs an alphahole, and Ash brings his big dick aRseholery. Bast is a sweet guy that I want to cuddle, and Jacob is head over heals for Chastity and Ash, but he is the sensitive one.
The twist and unexpected ending was a WTF yelling moment. I can't wait for the final book in Locked Souls Society. But at least we are getting a novella Ash and answers on Tempest's past.
These characters are absolutely fantastic, and Amber Nicole and Jenn Bullard are definitely one of my favourite authors. Even though they leave me yelling.
Highly recommended, but please note trigger warnings.

Kylee

631 reviews

July 22, 2023

Before reading book 2 I decided to reread book 1, and I absolutely am in love with this series so far, if I had to say I’d say this is probably one of my top series so far of the year. At least from what I’ve read lol. I ain’t gonna lie though, those dang cliffhangers always want me to read more lol.

The more your read these books the more the secrets get deeper and when you think you have something figured out you don’t lol. There is evil around every corner. I love the dynamic between Chasity and her group. The way they connect and learn more about each other makes me swoon. Although the relationships grow it’s still never easy.

My mind with each book just gets blown the more I read and book two with that ending definitely left me wanting so much more! I am absolutely excited for the next book in the series.

Overall, I loved everything about this book from the steamy scenes to the plot and character growth in the books! I can’t wait for the next one to come out.

TheheartofBrigid

756 reviews18 followers

Locked Promises is the second book in the Society Of The Locked Souls series by Jenn Bullard and Amber Nicole.

💜 hurting FMC
💜 secret society
💜 mysteries
💜 found family
💜 🌶🌶🌶🌶 spicy spice

We pick up in this book right where book one leaves off. While at the hospital, Ash, Jonas, Bastion, and Levi have a lot of soul searching they need to do in regards to their relationship with Chastity. Will she recover completely from what had happened? Will the guys figure out what they want with her? Will they continue to be ok with her being their Eve? Will Chastity ever see Angel again?

This book just grabs you as soon as you start reading and doesn’t let go. It’s such a rollercoaster of mysteries and emotions. I love seeing the growth of all of the characters. But, ugh, these women and the cliffhangers that they write. I just can’t. Wait. For. The. Next. Book!!!

Anoesjka Connolly

675 reviews5 followers

Teresa Juckett (Love Dark Reads)

The emotions just keep coming! There is so much going on behind the scenes with Chastity, Levi and all the guys. After book 1 finished on a cliff hanger, this one continues on where that one left off. The hardships and trauma that Chas has been through just keeps on going, but her men, especially Levi, really help her out and help her to heal. Just when you are getting to the end of the book and you think everything is working out, boom - that cliff hanger is a killer! There is so much still going on that we don't know the answers to. I can't wait for the next book to find out what is going on and get the answers to my questions. And what is going on with Ash, and with Tempest? So many questions! I loved the way Levi in particular looked after Chastity and the way their relationship developed throughout this book. I can't wait to read the next book!

2,516 reviews44 followers

Ugh these ladies are killing me with their cliffhanger's. I swear this book literally had me on pins and needles not knowing what was going to happen next arpund the corner, but mercy was this book spicy, and it will have you all in your feels.
This is the 2nd book in Society of the Locked Souls series and man talk about secrets, secrets, secrets you don't know who to trust. Just when you think Chasity might get her hea nope there's evil lurking around the corner as the Society tries to figure out who’s the mole while Levi and the guy's try to keep her safe. I just hope in the final book those that are involved get what they richly deserve and it's painful and bloody.
If you've read book 1 in the series you won't want to miss this one. I can't get enough of this series I keep wanting more.

I highly recommend this series, but beware of the tw's, so check them before reading.

KassiKayC

133 reviews3 followers

Chastity. Man this girl has had a time. Her "parents" are crazy. What the heck is up with her brother?!? What happens with her Grandmother? Does Tempest come back? I loved how much the guys have stepped up in this book. Especially everything they are willing to do to make sure she is safe. Ash.... that situation is CRAZY, I mean seriously!?!? How could you do it Ash? What the heck Jenn how could you make him? I can't wait to see what happens there. In the end everything the guys seemed to have done for Chastity seem to have been for Not... where is she? Who has her? Where is Angel? Does she get her back? Jenn is one of those few writers as of late that ALWAYS keeps me guessing. There are so many things I just don't see coming and I LOVE that in a world where so many books are so predictable. Adding Amber Nicole to the mix just makes for the best books!

Sierra Mackenzie

Author 5 books129 followers

I was BEYOND ready for this book to come out. Y'all have no idea! Book one leaves you off with one heck of a cliff hanger and I was reeling from that ending for MONTHS.
I knew book two was going to come with its own wild twists and turns. There were quite a few that I absolutely enjoyed as Chasity learns how to become her own person. She definitely faces challenges that have carried over from book one as well as new challenges. But Chasity has a team of wonderful men to help aide her and one of them takes on a whole new special meaning.
What amazing book does NOT have a wicked cliff hanger and leaves you with even more questions? I knew it was coming, but I think I was in denial. The fact that it still caught me off guard was a job well done!!
I'm going to be feeling this one for a while, too. LOL.
I think y'all know what this means....I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK! <3

Josmely

657 reviews27 followers

What an ending 😭 one thing these authors know how to do is write a good plottwist and a cliffhanger that's gonna have u thinking about it for days.

We definitely got to know all the guys a lot of in this one. Each of them have a really sad past bc of that im glad they found someone like Chastity. She's also something that has gone through hell and back and they are all able to help each other heal. Definitely felt a lot more connected to the guys in this one.

Ngl Ash still kinda got on my nerves but at the same time I want to give him a big hug.

LEVI IS EVERYTHING. Love this man with my entire being. He had me blushing and giggling the entire book. He was so caring and sweet to Chastity. I loved how he never treated her like she was mad of glass, he managed to still be careful with her without treating her any differently.

I NEED THE NEXT BOOK. I have so many questions.

Dreaa Bisshh

54 reviews2 followers