Harpies are things of fairy tales. Mythological creatures of violence and bloodshed. And apparently, I am one.
After discovering my true identity, I’m determined to take back control of my life. My first goal is to stop this ridiculous contest to win my hand in marriage. Then, I have to turn my attention to something more an evil ex-fiance, a mysterious warehouse, and a threat to my life.
Add to that, my new-found powers are unstable. I’m having strange dreams. And I don’t even know who I am anymore. But I do know my three mates, my Shields, are the only ones keeping me going.
My bloody vampire.
My mysterious alpha.
My sweet and caring mage.
While I may have accepted my bonds with Malakai and Cade, Sterling is another matter. His betrayal still sits heavy on my heart, but I’m ready to accept the bond. He has other ideas, though. When he takes the threat to my safety into his own hands and gets captured, I risk losing one of my shields, and the realization sends my magic into a frenzy.
Saving Sterling and making him mine becomes my priority. However, as I’ve learned, fate tends to have her own plans. A new development, one that sits close to my heart, threatens to upend my world once again. Only time will tell if I am strong enough to handle this one.
Authors note: This is book 2 of 3 in a dark and gritty paranormal romance series. It ends on a minor cliff hanger.
I am leaving a review for books one and two here. It started off quite abruptly and there are some challenging scenes as the FMC is abused by her fiancé ( the author did include the TWs,, so I knew what I was getting myself in). It had some interesting elements such as how come two powerful mages' offspring is born with no abilities, the complicated structures within the supernatural community and of course, the fact that the common perception of most magical creatures that humans are disposable, hence why they are frowned upon. Now, the entire romance... it just kind of happened, I am not sure if romance would be the right term for it as well. She is kidnapped though in this case saved by the MMCs and pretty quickly, despite her traumatic past, she gets quite intimate with one of them while the other one witnesses the entire thing. It was way too early with that. Eventually, the fated mate trope comes in play, but still the intimate moments were way too many and I did skip quite a few of them. Another irritating feature was the lack of maturity with some of the characters. They are all adults, but their conversations at times seemed a tad juvenile. I do not mean to sound harsh, but it did take away from the story.
I got excited when the main heroine discovered that she has actual abilities and that her true nature is quite rare, but sadly the author did not into depth. I am not sure if I would read the last book. I might try, just to know how this entire ordeal wraps up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
After reading the first book in the series, I did not hesitate to sign up for an ARC of These Deadly Dreams!
Starting off right where we left off with Ellis learning what she is and seeking out the answers they are looking for, all while avoiding the threats and dangers of Sam and Kennedy. These 3 caring and understanding men in her life will do what they need to protect her as well as each other! Their relationships together grew just as much as their individual selfs and I loved being there with them through all of it- especially during the thunderstorm 🥵🤤!! Not once was I disappointed in the balance of spice and story, and nothing ever felt too rushed! I very much enjoyed this book, reading at every chance I could!!
I cannot wait to see how Ellis and Sterling’s relationship grow, not only together but with Cade and Kai as well. Perfect ending setup for book #3!
I read the first in the series, These Dangerous Fates, and I was sucked in, I knew I had to start this one immediately after. Long story short, Ellis is a human (OR IS SHE???) and is the fated mate to three best friends: a vampire, a mage, and a wolf shifter.
The entire story is full of action as the fated mates try to keep Ellis safe from her abuser and figure out the magical world around them. I loved seeing her bonds develop and deepen with her mates, even with Sterling, her most standoffish mate who has done a pretty good grovel.
The steam in this series is beyond hot, so much that at times I’m thinking “Ellis girl, pay attention to the plot progression and not the naked men around you.” But can you blame her??? Answer: no.
The cliffhanger at the end was a DOOZY and for some reason I wasn’t expecting it. I’m crushed that I’ll have to wait for the next in the series as I NEED IT. All I know is that this author is going on my “auto-buy” list!
Thank you to Midnight Tide Publishing for the gifted copy.
I received the ARC today, started it immediately, did not stop till the end cuz I couldn’t put it down!!!
Ellis and the team discover she’s a harpy, a mythological creature of violence and bloodshed. Add in the truth regarding her parentage, the sting of betrayal, an abusive ex-fiancé who can’t take no and new powers going wild, Ellis has had a rough couple of weeks. But, she isn’t alone. Her Shields, her three mates, vow to protect her from the world and refuse to let anything deter them from her.
I loved watching how much of a priority Ellis was for the boys. Especially with Ellis’ past, this made them more endearing and I loved the way their relationships progressed. The love they felt for each other was portrayed beautifully and I was swooning every time.
The little quirks for each of them grounded everyone and I enjoyed watching them struggle with things they aren’t good at.🤣 Like Kai trying to cook, it was so funny and I loved him more! There was so much banter which simply made my day. I need more of them!!!!!
The fast pace set coupled with the action and adventure made the story engaging and exciting. I was terrified for my babies and was on the edge of my seat for the entire second half of the book. I could not keep calm. It was an exhilarating read and I can’t wait for more!
I loved finding more about Ellis' past and finding more about what she is. You find out some great information in this book- so much that you just need to read the book in one sitting to find out all the secrets.
I loved having the multiple POVs from Ellis and the guys. It's a great little sneak peak into the guys thoughts and feelings.
Sterling had the slowest burn in the book and it was delightful. Also scenes with Kai and Cade were so hot.
This was so good! I absolutely love that it picked up exactly where book 1 left off! (Also I’m so glad I quickly reread book 1 because my mind forgot some details)
I love that the author drops this huge surprise on us at the end of book one and just leaves us with that. In These Deadly Dreams, we get more glimpses into who Ellis is as a harpy, and watch her grow stronger and braver as someone who has endured so much trauma. She learns why she’s connected to her men, and what they can all do for each other.
Once again Malachi has stolen my heart with Cade being a close second. And I especially enjoyed the scenes with Kai, Cade and Ellis and I definitely want to see more! IYKYK
I also actually really enjoyed getting to see more of Sterling, and learn more about his past.
I have high hopes for book 3 especially with the revelation this book left us with!
DNF 68%. Except for the spice this reads like a YA book. I’ve lost patience with the FMC who is a self centred, attention seeking drama Queen who stumbles from one “woe is me moment” to the next, trampling all over her men whilst expecting them to solve her problems for her. The men are too accepting and doting and blame themselves for everything that goes wrong. They are all pushed around and controlled by the wickedly evil older generation, who are also apparently stupid, as they haven’t worked out what’s going on under their noses. It’s juvenile, it lacks complexity, and I’ve had enough.
wow this one had many curve balls! Quick and smooth read! This got me out of a reading slump so yay!!! I can’t get enough of this series!! This book was surprise and thrill after another. Sam can still kick rocks! Definitely want to see what is end game with his plan is. I love each character an their unique bond with each other, so enjoyable to read. Added a few more characters to the mix which was fun. Can we trust Connor 🤔 can’t wait until august for book 3!
This is a high heat book that includes some dark aspects to it. Ellis’s has true friends and shields who would do anything to protect her. You have your vampire, mage, wolf shifter and now she discovers she is a harpy. Once one problem is overcome here comes another situation or secret to stir things up. But what a journey to go on and I’m truly invested now. Just love Sterling I just want some wolfy love.
I don't know where to start. Do I like this story yes but I'm not going to lie it started to lose me towards the end. The conflict with Sterling was drug out. To be completely honest the FMC is starting to get on my nerves. She is constantly breaking down and crying. I understand she has trauma but come on get a backbone! She is strong and great magical being that cries all the time! I might need to come back to book 3.
What a series this is turning out to be! So exciting with all its twists and turns. Amazing! Questions from book one were answered and now I believe book three is where everything will come to a head!!!
These Deadly Dreams is the second book in the Fates series. In the first book we met Ellis Kennedy and the three men who fell into her life and her heart: Malakai (Kai) Thorne, her beloved, a dark and dangerous vampire, Cade Campbell, her soul-bonded, a sweet and caring mage, and Sterling Harrison, her mate, a reserved and secretive wolf shifter. These three entered a contest being run by Ellis' father, Thomas. When they found her, something clicked and now they want to love, cherish, and protect her.
The bond between them is unusual and unexpected. In an effort to understand it, they seek out answers. The one they receive seems impossible, and yet... Ellis learns that she is a harpy, a being that only exists when there is a need. Harpies ensure that the world maintains a balance between good and evil. This information sends Ellis spinning. Is she really a violent mythological creature? Not only that, but The Triad, her men, they are her Shields, her guardians, and Ellis a simple girl without any magical abilities, will be able to borrow their power.
As they try to learn more about harpies and what this means for Ellis, they also need to put an end to Thomas' competition, figure out what Sam's agenda is and how to end it. While they discover the where, there are still so many unanswered questions. And then Sterling gets nabbed while trying to do reconaissance. Shields have been known to lay down their lives for their harpy. Can they get to him in time? Can Ellis forgive him for his involvement in the murders of her mother and sister and accept their bond?
There's a lot going on in this book, and I loved every minute! Like the first, there's delicious spice with a substantial, well developed and exciting plot. I didn't want to put it down. The characters continue to grow and get better and better. I'm eager to learn what comes next; I hope I don't have to wait too long. I'm keen to see Sam get what's coming to him, and Ellis in all her glory.
In book two of this series, the supernatural competition for Ellis' hand in marriage is still in play, even though she needs to search for reasons why she she has multiple fated mates. But when Ellis is betrayed by someone she trusts and her ex-fiance tries once again to kidnap her, Ellis finds that all she knows and loves is in jeopardy.
My Thoughts: First of all, I am a simp for MM romance, and Kai and Cade have such a great relationship. Add that to both of them also being into the girl and I truly melt into a puddle. I enjoyed learning more about what Ellis is and why she has several fated mates and the story line behind her ex is well written. My only hang up on this book is that the FMC cries A LOT. All the time. While I am all about showing emotion, I don't love the damsel in distress that she sometimes becomes. I look forward to her coming fully into her powers and having more confidence in herself.
Poor Ellis just can't catch a break. Picking up where Book 1 left off we see Ellis is on the verge of a nervous breakdown upon learning that she is a Harpy. A mythical creature known for restoring balance between good and evil through destruction and bloodshed. Ellis is absolutely terrified of who and what she is. She is terrified of her new and unstable powers and most of all she's afraid her mates won't want her anymore.
Kai and Cade took swoon worthy to another level. Ellis’ beloved Vampire and Soul-bound Mage were the driving force she needed to remain grounded and assure if herself especially with her and Sterling’s relationship in upheaval.
In this book we see the growing pains of this harem and how the power of love, loyalty and sacrifice can mend any brokenness. Ellis and Sterling had a lot of work to do on their relationship. Ellis was trying to forgive Sterling for his betrayal and the part he played in destroying her family and Sterling was dealing with his inner demons over the hurt and pain he caused his Fated Mate. Sterling wanted forgiveness but didn't feel worthy of it. Ellis wanted to forgive but didn't know how.
It's funny how things change when the one you love is in trouble. When Sterling has been captured by Ellis’s ex; all bets are off and she does what any woman in this situation would do……She went and found her man!!!
I loved seeing Ellis’ growth in this book. I loved seeing how her powers manifested when each of her bonds were solidified with her mates and I loved how Kai, Cade and Sterling were there every step of the way. Calming her, Coaching her, Reassuring her, Loving her and most of all Protecting her.
Ending on an exciting Cliffhanger with a new power manifestation; I look forward to Ellis finally getting her revenge against those who were set out to hurt/kill her…….. especially her horrible and evil ex fiancé.
These Deadly Dreams picks up right where These Dangerous Fates left off, moments after Ellis learns she is a harpy. We get lots of new information about Ellis as well as why she is bonded to all three guys- this little twist was really fun! Malakai continues to woo me with every page he dominates- he is so incredibly sexy, it’s ridiculous 🤣 I do love the growing relationship between Kai and Cade, it’s so sweet to watch unfold. I do wish that Ellis had more one-on-one interactions with both of them, especially Cade. I like them all together (🔥) but I also really like seeing Ellis develop each bond on its own. It’s clear that she has a powerful physical bond with them, but I really want to delve deeper into the emotional connections.
Speaking of, my man Sterling finally got some good page time! I really adore this character so much. He’s quiet and broody but also so sensitive and selfless. All I wanted going into to this installment was for Ellis and Sterling to get some alone time and accept their bond. I can’t wait for this relationship to grow even more in the next book. It might wind up being my favorite of the three guys. 🥹
The other main storyline got very interesting here, and I’m really intrigued to get book three and find out why Sam is up to his villainous deeds- and holy shit that ending was great! Whitney loves a good cliffhanger and this one was a great one!
Omg this book. I loved every second of it. This book picks right where These Dangerous Fates left us. We are reunited with our favourite guys and Ellis. Leave it to Whitney to put our FMC through it, first Lainey now Ellis. Ellis has finally found a sense of happiness with her guys and now she's just waiting for the other shoe to drop and it did *enters Sam*.
This book is nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster. You'll laugh at the banter between our favourite quartet, you'll stress and worry as they go through various trials but you'll definitely fall more in love with them. For me it's Kai, everytime he says baby girl I just melt in a puddle of happiness. I really loved seeing their relationship grow in this book. I loved seeing Ellis getting a better understanding of who she is and her powers. I love that instead of the boys being afraid of her powers they are in awe by it and it just makes my heart flutter everytime, especially with that ending.
Here's some of my favorite quotes:
"Despite everything that has been done to you and everything you have been through, you never once let them turn you into what they are. There is no one more pure and beautiful in this world than you.”
you could be the biggest, baddest monster in Lustros and we would still burn the fucking world to the ground to be with you.”
“I love you, too. And if you’re a monster, Ellis, then you’re our monster.”
“Chocolate covered Kai dick. Where can I get me some of that?” 😂😂
“I caught you, little bird,” he breathes in my ear.
And so many more
Can't wait for book 3.
🚨🚨 Trigger Warning 🚨🚨
This book contains adult themes that may not be appropriate for all audiences. These themes include: violence, graphic sexual scenes, CNC, language, drug/alcohol use, torture, blood play, and mention of past non-consent encounters and sexual assault.
Made it a quarter of the way through before I couldn’t roll my eyes any more and gave up. It’s obvious that the main drama of Ellis not being able to get over her childish hurt feelings by Sterling will be miraculously forgiven when he gets abducted. If the FMC were more interested and badass, I’d be invested enough to want to see her become the cool harpy and change the world and kill Sam and her not-dad. But I can’t stomach any more of her uselessness. I’m no longer curious enough to force myself through any more.
As Book 2 in the series, the storyline picks up right where the end of book 1 left off - which was a nice beginning to this book. The overall plotline is very fast-paced and felt a bit more action packed than the 1st book, which isn't a bad thing. Although I did feel like the storyline jumped around a little too much for me, the new & uncovered secrets definitely keep you guessing where the plot leads too. There were several scenarios that occurred that I never would have seen coming and keep you invested in the storyline.
I love having not only Ellis’s but also her males POVs. Having the different insights, shows a lot about their personality and how they truly FEEL about their girl, Ellis. The scenes with Kai & Cade were so steamy and HOT!! If i’m being honest, the best thing about this series is the SMUT. Sometimes I love just having a good steamy romance novel between my everyday reads, as sort of a “palate cleanser” and these books are perfect. The characters are intriguing and entertaining, the plot is not too overcomplicated and the romance is fast-paced, revolving and keeps you on your toes.
Whitney most definitely LOVES her cliff-hangers and she doesn’t disappoint us again with her intriguing but mouth-gaping ending!!
Be prepared for plenty of smutty-steamy sex scenes - like starting at 5% into the book!!
**MAKE SURE TO CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Whitney!! How can you end the book like that?! My jaw is on the floor again! I could use Kai telling me to breathe right about now! 😂
Where do I even start…. So many things got answered but I have soooo many more questions now! And let’s not forget the freaking plot twist thrown in there! How am I supposed to wait til August for book 3!!?
Dreams picks right back up from where fates ended and takes you on an amazing journey of discovery, healing hearts, and building bonds. I have a feeling these 4 will become a force to be reckoned with. Sam has some things coming for him and I cannot wait to see what Ellis has in store for him.
This is a sequel that I've been dying for! I absolutely adored book 1, These Dangerous Fates, so I immediately signed up for this ARC!
This is a why choose, paranormal romance filled with angst, longing, spice, and danger.
Starting off right where we left off in book 1 with Ellis learning something important about herself and seeking out answers while trying to avoid the dangers of her ex-fiance and her father.
I absolutely loved how much all of the relationships with her three guys developed in this book! Cade, Kai, and Sterling are so loving and would do anything for Ellis. And the spice literally started 5% into this book! Damn it was so good 🥵
Not only were the relationships between Ellis and her guys developing within but the connection between Kai and Cade was INCREDIBLE. The author did such a good job in nurturing that relationship.
I cannot wait to see how Ellis and Sterling's relationship grows more in book 3. I'm just going to be sitting here thinking about these characters and that ending until the next book is out!
I enjoyed this book,it had a vast amount of 🔥and what it did have of a storyline was quite entertaining. So probably a 80/20 split on the 🔥 and storyline. Also had multiple POV that’s a must for me as the reader. The release time between book 1 and 2 was pretty quick. This does seem to end on a hfn for the main characters…but I wonder if there will be more to come from this because there are lose ends that haven’t been tied up. So it’s anyone’s guess I suppose. 8/10 recommend.
It was great being back in Lustros with Ellis and her guys, Kai, Cade, and Sterling. After the discovery of Ellis' true identity at the end of These Dangerous Fates, I couldn't waitto jump into this book and learn what it all meant.
The book was fast paced and action packed from beginning to end. There were so many twists and turns, leaving me at the edge of my seat. Just when I thought things coming to a head, Whitney threw in a couple of curveballs that left my jaw on the floor.
I loved seeing the growing relationship between Ellis and her guys, and Elliscoming into her own. Ellis' true identity adding a little something extra to their growing bond was a total WOW moment.
I enjoyed the banter and the way the foursome navigated through their daily life in those moments when they weren't being attacked. Kai especially was a treat as he tried his hand at domesticity; some laugh out loud moments.
And the spice? Uuuffff!! Whitney really kicked it up a notch in this book and I was here for it.
This series just keeps getting better and better! We get to learn what Ellis really is. We see her relationship with Malakai, Cade, and Sterling grow, and we get more backstory of each of the guys, too. The more I learn about them, the more I love them 🫠
That scene between Malakai and Ellis at the house? Rent-free in my head now thank you very much 🥵
🖤 Book 2 of 3 🖤 Forced Proximity 🖤 Fates Mates 🖤 Paranormal Romance 🖤 Reverse Harem/Why Choose 🖤 Multi POV
After reading book 1 I knew I wanted to read book 2, and boy this one does not disappoint!
Starting right where book 1 ended and it starts with a bang! And Whitney keeps everything on edge throughout the whole book. I just couldn't put the book down because I wanted to know how the book would end.
And while we get a lot of answers in this book that I got in the first book, I can't wait to read book 3 for the new questions I got at the end of book 2 😂
I loved the development between Ellis and the guys! I Really liked all the backstorys about the boys we got. It gave the story so much more depth. Also Ellis her backstory and the fact she is a harpie and we got to learn so much about her made it all so much better. I can't wait for book 3 to arrive!
Thank you Whitney L. Spradling and Bound by Mischief for this ARC to read and review.
This takes place right after the events of the first book, so make sure you read that first. I am so honored that I got a chance to read this as an eARC. This was an amazing why choose paranormal romance and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves that genre or has been considering reading it. Kai, Sterling and Cade are all amazing MMCs, but Kai is always going to be my favorite. Also the end of the book really made me want to dive right into the next book.
The spice started at 5% and did not stop. It mixed in well with the plot, and I have no complaints. We get to see new sides of Kai and Sterling, and Cade is just as awesome as ever. I loved how this story continued to develop the relationship between Ellis and her guys, and their dynamic is really starting to take off. They work with each other's strengths, and that was crucial for saving Sterling. I liked seeing Allie and Connor, and adding a crow shifter ally into the mix was fun. I'm eager to see how the gang handles that bombshell at the end and how Ellis' newfound powers come into play. I want her to ruin Sam, the jackwagon that he is. Another great story!
I was super excited to return to the world of Ellis and her magical trio of guys. This is a polyamorous/”why choose” romance, and I really enjoyed reading all of the different POVs. These Deadly Dreams explores the reveal from The Dangerous Fates (Book 1) that Ellis is a harpy. Harpies appear to bring balance between good and evil. What does this mean about her family and her purpose? Why does she have three men that she is fated to be with? The book has a fun mix of mystery, adventure, and spice. The final book is due out in August, and I can’t wait to see how everything turns out!!