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Scorpion Kings #2
The Demons We Hide
The Scorpion Kings took me.
They made me believe in them.
Gave me everything I’d given up hoping for.
Then they burned it all down.
Now, it’s time to show them that I’m not a damsel in distress.
I’m not a victim.
I am the villain in this story.
It’s time to show them all that even fallen princesses can become Queens.
*This is a Dark Enemies to Lovers WhyChoose Romance*
*Trigger If you are sensitive to content common in dark romance (content such as SA, graphic depictions of violence, murder, drug and/or alcohol abuse, physical abuse, mental and/or emotional abuse, traumatic events, unhealthy coping mechanisms, dubious consent etc.) then this book may not be for you. Please read responsibly. *
They made me believe in them.
Gave me everything I’d given up hoping for.
Then they burned it all down.
Now, it’s time to show them that I’m not a damsel in distress.
I’m not a victim.
I am the villain in this story.
It’s time to show them all that even fallen princesses can become Queens.
*This is a Dark Enemies to Lovers WhyChoose Romance*
*Trigger If you are sensitive to content common in dark romance (content such as SA, graphic depictions of violence, murder, drug and/or alcohol abuse, physical abuse, mental and/or emotional abuse, traumatic events, unhealthy coping mechanisms, dubious consent etc.) then this book may not be for you. Please read responsibly. *
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2025
438 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Smoke
78 books2,838 followersLucy Smoke, also known as Lucinda Dark for her fantasy works, has a master’s degree in English and is a self-proclaimed creative chihuahua. She enjoys feeding her wanderlust, cover addiction, as well as her face, and truly hopes people will stop giving her bath bombs as gifts. Bath’s get cold too fast and it’s just not as wonderful as the commercials make it out to be when the tub isn’t a jacuzzi.
When she’s not on a never-ending quest to find the perfect milkshake, she lives and works in the southern United States with her beloved fur-baby, Hiro, and her family and friends.
When she’s not on a never-ending quest to find the perfect milkshake, she lives and works in the southern United States with her beloved fur-baby, Hiro, and her family and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
May 9, 2025
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
The way I jumped on this arc was maybe a little embarrassing but when it comes to Lucy Smoke, I have no cares other than when I can get my hands on her next book. And after that cliffy from The Venom We Bleed, there was no chance of me having any chill and I'm not sorry.
Now as much as I love this author, am I loving her after leaving me on yet another and an even worse cliffhanger? Currently not as much.
That ending.
Someone send help.
I loved it because when I tell you the physical reaction I had when the ending came and I was not fully expecting it? I probably looked like a crazy person just tapping my kindle hoping somehow another page will pop up. Which I really enjoy when a book can make me actually react because I'm that involved in it. But for anyone that knows me through my reviews, you know I am one of the most impatient people when it comes to waiting for the HEA.
As to the actual heart of the story. Amazing. I'm still in love with these characters and I was dying for them to get through some of their misunderstandings but the journey through that with Juliet becoming an even bigger badass? So worth it. And now I have so many theories about what's going to happen to give these characters the ending they deserve and I'm very very impatiently waiting to find out if I'm right about everything. So if anyone wants to start a support group for victims of Lucy Smoke's cliffhangers, I'll bring the donuts.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
The way I jumped on this arc was maybe a little embarrassing but when it comes to Lucy Smoke, I have no cares other than when I can get my hands on her next book. And after that cliffy from The Venom We Bleed, there was no chance of me having any chill and I'm not sorry.
Now as much as I love this author, am I loving her after leaving me on yet another and an even worse cliffhanger? Currently not as much.
That ending.
Someone send help.
I loved it because when I tell you the physical reaction I had when the ending came and I was not fully expecting it? I probably looked like a crazy person just tapping my kindle hoping somehow another page will pop up. Which I really enjoy when a book can make me actually react because I'm that involved in it. But for anyone that knows me through my reviews, you know I am one of the most impatient people when it comes to waiting for the HEA.
As to the actual heart of the story. Amazing. I'm still in love with these characters and I was dying for them to get through some of their misunderstandings but the journey through that with Juliet becoming an even bigger badass? So worth it. And now I have so many theories about what's going to happen to give these characters the ending they deserve and I'm very very impatiently waiting to find out if I'm right about everything. So if anyone wants to start a support group for victims of Lucy Smoke's cliffhangers, I'll bring the donuts.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5 | 5
Book one ended and I was 𝙁𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡. 𝙎𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨. Dramatic sighing into the void.
And book two? BABY. It delivered. 🥵
The Demons We Hide is exactly what I wanted—dark, spicy, and so deliciously messy. Juliet is still that sharp-edged fallen princess with a mouth full of venom and a heart she swears she’s not giving away… but she starts to crack. Just a little. And those boys? They’re waiting. Watching. Wrecked and obsessed and 1000% feral for her.
This isn’t your typical love story—it’s all bruised hearts, dangerous chemistry, and enough tension to make you scream into your pillow. And the Scorpion Kings? I hate them. I love them. I want them all to touch grass and also maybe ruin me.
Lucy Smoke knows how to serve pain, spice, and plot perfectly wrapped in chaos.
And that ending? YUP. Unwell again. Catch me camped outside her inbox until book three.
Tropes you’ll love:
🖤Enemies to Lovers
🦂 Why Choose
💙 Dark Romance
🖤 Fallen Princess
🦂Forced Proximity
💙Obsession & Bad Boys
🦂 Crime + Chaos
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5 | 5
Book one ended and I was 𝙁𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡. 𝙎𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨. Dramatic sighing into the void.
And book two? BABY. It delivered. 🥵
The Demons We Hide is exactly what I wanted—dark, spicy, and so deliciously messy. Juliet is still that sharp-edged fallen princess with a mouth full of venom and a heart she swears she’s not giving away… but she starts to crack. Just a little. And those boys? They’re waiting. Watching. Wrecked and obsessed and 1000% feral for her.
This isn’t your typical love story—it’s all bruised hearts, dangerous chemistry, and enough tension to make you scream into your pillow. And the Scorpion Kings? I hate them. I love them. I want them all to touch grass and also maybe ruin me.
Lucy Smoke knows how to serve pain, spice, and plot perfectly wrapped in chaos.
And that ending? YUP. Unwell again. Catch me camped outside her inbox until book three.
Tropes you’ll love:
🖤Enemies to Lovers
🦂 Why Choose
💙 Dark Romance
🖤 Fallen Princess
🦂Forced Proximity
💙Obsession & Bad Boys
🦂 Crime + Chaos
April 27, 2025
welcome back to the world of the Kings. Scorpion Kings. Book Two of this series, let me see if I can put this into words. Book one leaves you hanging, and typical Lucy style, book two will as well. does that stop me? absolutely NOT. I ate this. I devoured this. I left room for dessert. speaking of desserts... Lex, Nolan and Gio, well IYKTYK! Things get dark. and spicy. and at the end... you are left waiting for the next slice. I am fully sucked into this series and I can't wait for the next installment.
I really wish you didn't open that door.......
I really wish you didn't open that door.......
May 13, 2025
~Arc Review~
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
~The Demons We Hide~Scorpion Kings #2~Lucy Smoke~
"I want a camera on her at all times, I realize. I want to see her at every part of her day. When she's sleeping. When she's naked. When she's clothed. I want to watch her eat and cry and snore. I want all pieces of her— no matter how she might think they're boring or ugly. Nothing about this woman is boring or ugly. Every piece of her is perfect because every piece belongs to me."
♡I can't put into words how badly I needed this book after being left with the cliffhanger of all cliffhangers in book 1! Lucy "Ate & left no crumbs" with this book! Book 2 started off with a bang & days later I am still sitting here processing it! In true Lucy fashion, I was left speechless by the end of this book & I'm patiently waiting for book 3! I'm so thankful that this book is a why choose because there is zero way that I could choose between Nolan, Lex, & Gio!!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
~The Demons We Hide~Scorpion Kings #2~Lucy Smoke~
"I want a camera on her at all times, I realize. I want to see her at every part of her day. When she's sleeping. When she's naked. When she's clothed. I want to watch her eat and cry and snore. I want all pieces of her— no matter how she might think they're boring or ugly. Nothing about this woman is boring or ugly. Every piece of her is perfect because every piece belongs to me."
♡I can't put into words how badly I needed this book after being left with the cliffhanger of all cliffhangers in book 1! Lucy "Ate & left no crumbs" with this book! Book 2 started off with a bang & days later I am still sitting here processing it! In true Lucy fashion, I was left speechless by the end of this book & I'm patiently waiting for book 3! I'm so thankful that this book is a why choose because there is zero way that I could choose between Nolan, Lex, & Gio!!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
May 5, 2025
Come on Lucy Smoke, what are you trying to do to me??? Book one of the Scorpion Kings was pure book candy entertainment. Book two? The Demons We Hide? Oh this book y’all, is just perfection. The story, the characters, the mystery, the SPICE??? All exceptional and I’m am simply addicted to this series. Juliet is so strong, and her journey is heartbreaking. Nolan, Gio and Lex, do they want to love her or just possess her? Will they be able to conquer each other’s demons and escape the future that seems inevitable for all of them? I am currently staring at the wall, wondering what I will do until book three, but I’d do it all over again, no question. If you love
💙 Dark Romance
🖤 Why Choose
💙 Badass FMC
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
💙 Toe Curling Spice
🖤 Secrets and mystery
💙 Posessive filthy MMC’s
This book has it ALL. The Demons We Hide will be out 5/9. Read The Venom We Bleed Now and get ready to fall in love with Juliet and her Kings. I know I have.
💙 Dark Romance
🖤 Why Choose
💙 Badass FMC
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
💙 Toe Curling Spice
🖤 Secrets and mystery
💙 Posessive filthy MMC’s
This book has it ALL. The Demons We Hide will be out 5/9. Read The Venom We Bleed Now and get ready to fall in love with Juliet and her Kings. I know I have.
May 9, 2025
✨𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
📖: The Demons We Hide (Scorpion Kings Book 2)
𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.
Juliet Donovan’s life was in shambles. But the semblance of what was left has literally gone up in flames. In the aftermath of the events of the first book, she’s done being the victim and sets out to exact revenge.
🦂 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔:
💔 Enemies to Lovers
🔥 Reverse Harem / Why Choose
💸 Poor/Rich dynamic
🚪 Forced Proximity
😈 Hate to Love
🔪 Dark Romance
🖤 Fallen Princess x Crime Kings
🌶️: moderate to high
Juliet’s fall from grace was swift and brutal yet she manages to pick up the pieces to move forward. When she finally allows herself to open up, she’s inundated with more setbacks.
The Scorpion Kings endeavor to keep her close while also enacting long-laid plans to secure their futures away from Silverwood. Their draw to her is obsessive but Juliet’s scared to allow herself to fall. Will their secrets tear them apart?
Lucy once again ensnared me in an emotionally-charged and deliciously dark why choose romance. I’m basically in love with Gio, Lex, and Nolan and am glad we don’t need to choose. Book 3 cannot come soon enough!
Huge thanks to the author and torchlitink for the review copy opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review.
📖: The Demons We Hide (Scorpion Kings Book 2)
𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.
Juliet Donovan’s life was in shambles. But the semblance of what was left has literally gone up in flames. In the aftermath of the events of the first book, she’s done being the victim and sets out to exact revenge.
🦂 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔:
💔 Enemies to Lovers
🔥 Reverse Harem / Why Choose
💸 Poor/Rich dynamic
🚪 Forced Proximity
😈 Hate to Love
🔪 Dark Romance
🖤 Fallen Princess x Crime Kings
🌶️: moderate to high
Juliet’s fall from grace was swift and brutal yet she manages to pick up the pieces to move forward. When she finally allows herself to open up, she’s inundated with more setbacks.
The Scorpion Kings endeavor to keep her close while also enacting long-laid plans to secure their futures away from Silverwood. Their draw to her is obsessive but Juliet’s scared to allow herself to fall. Will their secrets tear them apart?
Lucy once again ensnared me in an emotionally-charged and deliciously dark why choose romance. I’m basically in love with Gio, Lex, and Nolan and am glad we don’t need to choose. Book 3 cannot come soon enough!
Huge thanks to the author and torchlitink for the review copy opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review.
May 13, 2025
Book two continues where book one left off.
Juliet, thinking the Scorpion Kings had something to do with her apartment burning down and taking out all the frustration, hurt, loneliness and anger on Lex. But he turns it around and opens up this side of Juliet she wishes she didn't feel.
It was a little frustrating to read. Juliet is "enemy number 1" because of what her father has done to Silverwood, but every turn where she got help from The Scorpion Kings, she ALWAYS thought they had ulterior motives. And I understand the skepticism Juliet has, she didn't have her parents or even the friends she had at Silverwood Prep, but these men - Nolan, Gio, and Lex want nothing more from Juliet than to be theirs. To protect, care, trust and kill.
These men would do anything for Juliet, but when Juliet learns more of what the Scorpion Kings are keeping from her, will they be able to explain. . .
ARC provided from the author and Torch Lit Ink for honest review.
Juliet, thinking the Scorpion Kings had something to do with her apartment burning down and taking out all the frustration, hurt, loneliness and anger on Lex. But he turns it around and opens up this side of Juliet she wishes she didn't feel.
It was a little frustrating to read. Juliet is "enemy number 1" because of what her father has done to Silverwood, but every turn where she got help from The Scorpion Kings, she ALWAYS thought they had ulterior motives. And I understand the skepticism Juliet has, she didn't have her parents or even the friends she had at Silverwood Prep, but these men - Nolan, Gio, and Lex want nothing more from Juliet than to be theirs. To protect, care, trust and kill.
These men would do anything for Juliet, but when Juliet learns more of what the Scorpion Kings are keeping from her, will they be able to explain. . .
ARC provided from the author and Torch Lit Ink for honest review.
May 9, 2025
The Demons We Hide is book two in the Scorpion Kings Series. It is a dark, high school, why choose, enemies to lovers romance with action, intrigue, mystery, steam, and so much more.
Juliet is quite peeved at the Kings for their perceived betrayal, turning her apartment and all her belongings to ash, as well as them trying to control her. She is mad at herself for ever letting them in, letting herself trust them. She is determined to never let it happen again and to get her revenge on them by any means possible.
Nolan, Lex, and Gio fight for their independence from Gio's dad, which is turning out to be harder than they thought. A mystery man showing up, claiming to be connected to one of the guys, could just be the help they need.
I absolutely love Juliet and her Kings together. Their "S" tension and chemistry is palpable and when they come together it is explosive. I love the individual relationships, how they are each progressing at their own pace, as well as their group dynamic.
I honestly did not think that I could have loved this second book as much as the first one, let alone more, but I must say, I was wrong. This book was insanely amazing and unputdownable. The characters, storyline, and storytelling are terrific, as is the writing, pace, flow, plot, character development, relationship development, and world building.
This is definitely a book and series that I would highly recommend and I can't wait to see what happens next.
Juliet is quite peeved at the Kings for their perceived betrayal, turning her apartment and all her belongings to ash, as well as them trying to control her. She is mad at herself for ever letting them in, letting herself trust them. She is determined to never let it happen again and to get her revenge on them by any means possible.
Nolan, Lex, and Gio fight for their independence from Gio's dad, which is turning out to be harder than they thought. A mystery man showing up, claiming to be connected to one of the guys, could just be the help they need.
I absolutely love Juliet and her Kings together. Their "S" tension and chemistry is palpable and when they come together it is explosive. I love the individual relationships, how they are each progressing at their own pace, as well as their group dynamic.
I honestly did not think that I could have loved this second book as much as the first one, let alone more, but I must say, I was wrong. This book was insanely amazing and unputdownable. The characters, storyline, and storytelling are terrific, as is the writing, pace, flow, plot, character development, relationship development, and world building.
This is definitely a book and series that I would highly recommend and I can't wait to see what happens next.
May 10, 2025
I felt like I have been waiting forever for book 2. I ate this book up. I needed to know what was going to happen. Book 2 was just as delicious and captivating as book 1. That ending….Lucy…you like to leave me hanging and begging for more.
Juliet is furious with the Scorpion Kings and she is determined to get her revenge on them. She is still the stubborn, independent, strong, and also vulnerable girl she has been forced to become. She feels like she can’t trust anyone and every time she lets her guard down they disappoint her.
Gio, Lex, and Nolan are fierce, strong, protective, and possessive. They all care for her in their own way and will not let her go. I really fell for Gio in book 2, he just seems so soft under everything. Even though I love them all. But there are secrets and they must just destroy everything.
The connection they all share is intense and strong. It’s all different and similar at the same time. They want to keep each other safe, but not sure they trust each other. Morpheus has always given me the ick…now I know why. Also the suspense and mystery on the money laundering…I need to know!!!!
Lucy is brilliant with her writing. She lures you in, leaves you begging for more, and has you frustrated because you need the next book NOW
5⭐️
4🌶️
Juliet is furious with the Scorpion Kings and she is determined to get her revenge on them. She is still the stubborn, independent, strong, and also vulnerable girl she has been forced to become. She feels like she can’t trust anyone and every time she lets her guard down they disappoint her.
Gio, Lex, and Nolan are fierce, strong, protective, and possessive. They all care for her in their own way and will not let her go. I really fell for Gio in book 2, he just seems so soft under everything. Even though I love them all. But there are secrets and they must just destroy everything.
The connection they all share is intense and strong. It’s all different and similar at the same time. They want to keep each other safe, but not sure they trust each other. Morpheus has always given me the ick…now I know why. Also the suspense and mystery on the money laundering…I need to know!!!!
Lucy is brilliant with her writing. She lures you in, leaves you begging for more, and has you frustrated because you need the next book NOW
5⭐️
4🌶️
May 5, 2025
I am in utter disbelief that I'm already done with this book!! That ENDING I was not prepared for until the last couple of pages. I felt something happening and I wanted to stop it! Just when you get through the hurt, betrayal, lies, and misunderstandings? You get smacked right into absolute chaos, AGAIN!
I absolutely could not stop reading this second installment. From the very first chapter, you get knocked off your feet and the roller coaster leaves the station with your oxygen and you never fully get it back. 😭
I am one hundred percent invested in this series and these characters. The Scorpion Kings? LOVE THEM! These guys mean everything they say and do and Juliet is EVERYTHING TO THEM.
I need more of NOLAN PIERCE!
The last line of this book SHOOK ME!
I am sitting here in utter fear of what happens next!! Read this series! If you love a good Reverse Harem with jaw-dropping Omg moments, possessive MMCS, and a Bada$$ FMC who doesn’t take crap from anyone?
This is THE SERIES FOR YOU! I need the next one asap. Devoured this, thank you, Lucy!
I absolutely could not stop reading this second installment. From the very first chapter, you get knocked off your feet and the roller coaster leaves the station with your oxygen and you never fully get it back. 😭
I am one hundred percent invested in this series and these characters. The Scorpion Kings? LOVE THEM! These guys mean everything they say and do and Juliet is EVERYTHING TO THEM.
I need more of NOLAN PIERCE!
The last line of this book SHOOK ME!
I am sitting here in utter fear of what happens next!! Read this series! If you love a good Reverse Harem with jaw-dropping Omg moments, possessive MMCS, and a Bada$$ FMC who doesn’t take crap from anyone?
This is THE SERIES FOR YOU! I need the next one asap. Devoured this, thank you, Lucy!
May 7, 2025
I don’t know how much more my heart can take with these cliffhangers. I was sure nothing could top the one at the end of book one, but it seems I was wrong.
This book had my anxiety levels through the roof as I wondered what the aftermath of book one would be. Juliet is truly going through it, and things seem even worse off now. But her strength to keep going is beyond admirable, and each obstacle she overcomes solidifies her place on my favorite FMC list.
I’m loving these deeper looks into Nolan, Gio, and Lex. Seeing their brotherhood, created through the things they’ve been through, along with their growing obsession with Juliet—which has led to some fanning yourself moments and some heartfelt and deep ones.
And beyond the developing relationship between Juliet and her guys, the plot has me so intrigued. I have so many questions that are slowly being answered, and I”m excited to see how everything unfolds. Secrets are being revealed, allies and enemies are being marked, and the truth seems to be on the horizon. I can’t wait for book three.
I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
This book had my anxiety levels through the roof as I wondered what the aftermath of book one would be. Juliet is truly going through it, and things seem even worse off now. But her strength to keep going is beyond admirable, and each obstacle she overcomes solidifies her place on my favorite FMC list.
I’m loving these deeper looks into Nolan, Gio, and Lex. Seeing their brotherhood, created through the things they’ve been through, along with their growing obsession with Juliet—which has led to some fanning yourself moments and some heartfelt and deep ones.
And beyond the developing relationship between Juliet and her guys, the plot has me so intrigued. I have so many questions that are slowly being answered, and I”m excited to see how everything unfolds. Secrets are being revealed, allies and enemies are being marked, and the truth seems to be on the horizon. I can’t wait for book three.
I received an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
May 11, 2025
After falling over the cliff on The Venom We Bleed, Lucy has us perched on another Cliff hanger. I'm hanging on by a thread! The emotional turmoil our fmc Juliet goes through and all the miscommunication with the scorpions, has me biting my nails. I gasped when I realized this book crosses over to her Sick Boys series ( I suck at paying attention) Excited to see more of East point in book 3; while I impatiently wait for it.
May 7, 2025
The second book in the Scorpion Kings picks up where we left off in the first book and gah it was just so good. Juliet is such a bad bitch and so multifaceted and angry at the world and I love her. The boys and her complement each other so well, each one gives her something different that she needs. The plot thickened too and has me wondering what the actual fck is going on and the cliffhanger like okay Miss Lucy way to leave it like THAT.
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Thank you to Torch Lit Ink for the arc!
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Thank you to Torch Lit Ink for the arc!
May 9, 2025
A great addition to this series that is full of new traumatic experiences for Juliet, Nolan, Lex and Gio that lead them into more dangerous situations. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Lucy never disappoints with her why choose books including great spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 leading to a surprising cliffhanger theme. So excited to read the next book in this series.
July 23, 2025
I was unwell after The Venom We Bleed. *cough* *cough* *cough*. Yes, this is me coming down with something yet again with The Demons We Hide.
I was screaming with the cliffhanger at the end of Book 1. These series is messy, brutal, infuriating, filled with tension and misunderstandings, dark secrets, trauma, and continuously unraveling mysteries. Am I hooked? Uh, yes. Abso-freakin-lutely.
Did I somewhat see this new cliffy coming? Ahem, yes. Was I hoping what she stumbled upon wouldn't happen? Yes. Was I also kinda hoping it *did* happen? Ha...ha! yes.
LEX. ALEXIO. BABY.
I'm deranged with how obsessed I am with the most obsessive male character out there.
I have already stalked when Book 3 is released - for those wondering, it's August. August 1st.
Lucy Smoke was not kidding when she said if you think you know what's happening or going to happen, you won't. She is no liar and I cannot wait to continue reading into Juliet's chaotic life. Just hoping she and the Scorpion Kings survive the aftermath.
**Thank you so much to the author and Booksprout for an ARC**
I was screaming with the cliffhanger at the end of Book 1. These series is messy, brutal, infuriating, filled with tension and misunderstandings, dark secrets, trauma, and continuously unraveling mysteries. Am I hooked? Uh, yes. Abso-freakin-lutely.
Did I somewhat see this new cliffy coming? Ahem, yes. Was I hoping what she stumbled upon wouldn't happen? Yes. Was I also kinda hoping it *did* happen? Ha...ha! yes.
LEX. ALEXIO. BABY.
I'm deranged with how obsessed I am with the most obsessive male character out there.
I have already stalked when Book 3 is released - for those wondering, it's August. August 1st.
Lucy Smoke was not kidding when she said if you think you know what's happening or going to happen, you won't. She is no liar and I cannot wait to continue reading into Juliet's chaotic life. Just hoping she and the Scorpion Kings survive the aftermath.
**Thank you so much to the author and Booksprout for an ARC**
May 10, 2025
The Demons We Hide
ARC REVIEW
5 stars
Firstly, what a beautiful and FITTING title for this book. The Demons We Hide is the 2nd book in the Scorpion King series. It is a Dark Romance set place in Silverwood High, with Juliet Donovan and the Scorpion Kings (Lex, Nolan, and Gio). We pick up RIGHT where we left off and really hit the ground running. The action, the plot, the twists and turns and THIS BOOK’S CLIFFHANGER…I’m UNWELL. I loved to see the puzzle pieces all come together, with much needed flashbacks (IYKYK), more insight into the guy’s history/motives and new players added to the board. We see so much character development… especially from Juliet because GIRLLLL, I was so frustrated with her until about 1/2 in. NOW, don’t get me wrong! I LOVE fierce BAMF FMCs but, I truly felt like Juliet was SO SO stubborn and because she didn’t have a CLEAR idea on who to blame she took it out on those closest to her… I.e the boys…but also THEY’RE GOOD MEN SAVANNAH (Juliet) GOOD MEN. We are starting to see a change in Juliet and I can’t wait for her to begin strengthening those bonds with her guys.
Thankfully this is a why choose, because YA GIRL CAN’T PICK! I love all of these MMCs and I loved to see each of their dynamics, especially Lex! That sweet gentle man! He is DOWN BAD for her and I am anxious to see how they navigate their relationship in the next book again IYKYK. Now, as for Nolan and Gio… Those men are also just perfection. I loved when Nolan admits to himself that he sees know what Lex sees and just *swoon*
Now for the miscommunication trope… I do have to give some grace because of their age and felt that the miscommunication trope was done so well because of their age (I’m normally not a huge fan of the trope, but given the age/maturity of the characters felt this was well done)
Big thanks to Torch Lit and Lucy Smoke for the opportunity to read this as an ARC!
ARC REVIEW
5 stars
Firstly, what a beautiful and FITTING title for this book. The Demons We Hide is the 2nd book in the Scorpion King series. It is a Dark Romance set place in Silverwood High, with Juliet Donovan and the Scorpion Kings (Lex, Nolan, and Gio). We pick up RIGHT where we left off and really hit the ground running. The action, the plot, the twists and turns and THIS BOOK’S CLIFFHANGER…I’m UNWELL. I loved to see the puzzle pieces all come together, with much needed flashbacks (IYKYK), more insight into the guy’s history/motives and new players added to the board. We see so much character development… especially from Juliet because GIRLLLL, I was so frustrated with her until about 1/2 in. NOW, don’t get me wrong! I LOVE fierce BAMF FMCs but, I truly felt like Juliet was SO SO stubborn and because she didn’t have a CLEAR idea on who to blame she took it out on those closest to her… I.e the boys…but also THEY’RE GOOD MEN SAVANNAH (Juliet) GOOD MEN. We are starting to see a change in Juliet and I can’t wait for her to begin strengthening those bonds with her guys.
Thankfully this is a why choose, because YA GIRL CAN’T PICK! I love all of these MMCs and I loved to see each of their dynamics, especially Lex! That sweet gentle man! He is DOWN BAD for her and I am anxious to see how they navigate their relationship in the next book again IYKYK. Now, as for Nolan and Gio… Those men are also just perfection. I loved when Nolan admits to himself that he sees know what Lex sees and just *swoon*
Now for the miscommunication trope… I do have to give some grace because of their age and felt that the miscommunication trope was done so well because of their age (I’m normally not a huge fan of the trope, but given the age/maturity of the characters felt this was well done)
Big thanks to Torch Lit and Lucy Smoke for the opportunity to read this as an ARC!
May 8, 2025
4.5 rounded up to 5
Juliet has decided to do everything in her power to destroy the Scorpion Kings after she was abandoned on her visit to her father, and her apartment was burned down at the end of the last novel. She's convinced they had a hand in it, despite them showing otherwise, and now they must do everything in their power to convince her she's one of them - for her safety and their own.
*****
This was such a freaking good novel. We had a bit of a slower start with Juliet pushing back against the guys as she struggled with her own insecurities and traumas. She's been abandoned by anyone who's ever cared about her, as well as manipulated and controlled her entire life, so this is an immediate trigger into her pulling back on herself and thrusting her walls up as high as she can.
Despite her fighting her feelings, we get a lot of mental and emotional development from Juliet as the story progresses. She's better able to recognize people for who they are, she's exploring her memories and trusting her gut, and growing into a person that can stand on her own, while accepting support at her back.
The author however is an absolute menace and left us on a killer cliffhanger right after what seemed to be the next step in the four of them forming a bond and coming together. I was stunned, trying to flip to a next page and realizing I'd been thrown yet again, and need to wait for the next book in the series! Now I'm feral for book three, and need other people to yell with this about!
*****
Thank you to Torch Lit Ink for the digitial ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Juliet has decided to do everything in her power to destroy the Scorpion Kings after she was abandoned on her visit to her father, and her apartment was burned down at the end of the last novel. She's convinced they had a hand in it, despite them showing otherwise, and now they must do everything in their power to convince her she's one of them - for her safety and their own.
*****
This was such a freaking good novel. We had a bit of a slower start with Juliet pushing back against the guys as she struggled with her own insecurities and traumas. She's been abandoned by anyone who's ever cared about her, as well as manipulated and controlled her entire life, so this is an immediate trigger into her pulling back on herself and thrusting her walls up as high as she can.
Despite her fighting her feelings, we get a lot of mental and emotional development from Juliet as the story progresses. She's better able to recognize people for who they are, she's exploring her memories and trusting her gut, and growing into a person that can stand on her own, while accepting support at her back.
The author however is an absolute menace and left us on a killer cliffhanger right after what seemed to be the next step in the four of them forming a bond and coming together. I was stunned, trying to flip to a next page and realizing I'd been thrown yet again, and need to wait for the next book in the series! Now I'm feral for book three, and need other people to yell with this about!
*****
Thank you to Torch Lit Ink for the digitial ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 6, 2025
“She has a way of making men lose themselves in her. Stormy seas have nothing on Juliet Donovan’s eyes. They say that to desire something so desperately is a sin. She is temptation incarnate.”
I…. I…. am not okay! That cliffhanger ending had me like 😳😩😭🫣 and clearly Lucy is just out here having a ball pushing me off cliffs with them bc after I finished this book all I could do is stare at the last page and say, “Lucy… wtf?!”. This one kept me on my toes and craving more for sure!
I really like how we get a bit more emotion with the boys (Nolan 👀) in TDWH and hear more about Juliet’s past, especially with the Uncle and her dad. Jules’ friendships also grow stronger and to see her having people to rely on (Mads girl, I’m looking at you boo) and be there for her is just so heartwarming. I also like seeing her grow into a badass woman who knows she can take care of herself 💪🏽.
The spice is also spicing right off the bat 🥵🌶️. Please know that I’m team Lex (tbh, I’m big on all of the boys)… something about him just pulls at my heartstrings. My boy needs to be loved and I’m willing to volunteer as tribute 🙋🏽♀️!
I also have so many questions that I hope will be answered soon. Like Darrio - whatcha got planned my man? Why are you so secretive? Uncle Morph - what’s up with you being a creep my guy? Where is momma and why’d you stop talking to Pops? Pops - why don’t you know more about who might be out to get ya? Did you not feel like someone was watching you? 🕵️♂️
Thank you to Lucy & Torch Lit Ink for letting me receive & review a copy of this ARC. Y’all are some beautiful people and I cannot wait to see what else happens next in this series.
4.5 ⭐️
I…. I…. am not okay! That cliffhanger ending had me like 😳😩😭🫣 and clearly Lucy is just out here having a ball pushing me off cliffs with them bc after I finished this book all I could do is stare at the last page and say, “Lucy… wtf?!”. This one kept me on my toes and craving more for sure!
I really like how we get a bit more emotion with the boys (Nolan 👀) in TDWH and hear more about Juliet’s past, especially with the Uncle and her dad. Jules’ friendships also grow stronger and to see her having people to rely on (Mads girl, I’m looking at you boo) and be there for her is just so heartwarming. I also like seeing her grow into a badass woman who knows she can take care of herself 💪🏽.
The spice is also spicing right off the bat 🥵🌶️. Please know that I’m team Lex (tbh, I’m big on all of the boys)… something about him just pulls at my heartstrings. My boy needs to be loved and I’m willing to volunteer as tribute 🙋🏽♀️!
I also have so many questions that I hope will be answered soon. Like Darrio - whatcha got planned my man? Why are you so secretive? Uncle Morph - what’s up with you being a creep my guy? Where is momma and why’d you stop talking to Pops? Pops - why don’t you know more about who might be out to get ya? Did you not feel like someone was watching you? 🕵️♂️
Thank you to Lucy & Torch Lit Ink for letting me receive & review a copy of this ARC. Y’all are some beautiful people and I cannot wait to see what else happens next in this series.
4.5 ⭐️
Read
August 6, 2025soft dnf :( i LOVED book one so much. like i really thought this might become one of my all time favorite rh series after losers. which is saying a lot. until i found out it’s a 4 book series. there’s just no way this story needs 4 400+ pages books and you could already feel that here. literally almost nothing happened in the first 20% i read. it all described 1 day since the events of the last book. fmc was also very much unbearable and i just know she’s gonna be like that the whole book without letting the guys explain anything so this is going on pause for my mental health because i will genuinely lose it if i have another shit read rn ✋🏼
October 28, 2025
In the “Scorpion Kings” Lucy Smokes takes us to the “wrong side of the tracks” of her criminal underworld. Characters from the “Sick Boys” series make plenty of “cameo” appearances. However the quartet can be read as their own self sustained story arch.
Yup quartet, as in 4 novels. As I draft this review all three books currently published end on cliff hangers with the fourth novel slated for a Nov 2025 release date.
I have consistently given her books 3 star 🌟 ratings. Lucy Smoke falls smack in the middle of current narrative trends. Plots are entertaining however nothing that I was blown away by.
Yup quartet, as in 4 novels. As I draft this review all three books currently published end on cliff hangers with the fourth novel slated for a Nov 2025 release date.
I have consistently given her books 3 star 🌟 ratings. Lucy Smoke falls smack in the middle of current narrative trends. Plots are entertaining however nothing that I was blown away by.
April 28, 2025
Enemies to friends to lovers is how I see this, I loved that the guys wanted to protect Juliet at any and all costs. When Juliet left Lex, Gio, and Nolan they were on a mission to find her and bring her back to protect her but also to protect their owns secrets and demons. Juliet has her own secrets hiding, waiting for the right time to let them out.
May 5, 2025
Have you read the first book in the Scorpion Kings series, The Venom We Bleed? If not, pause your life and make that happen immediately, then come back and let’s talk.
Now, find the edge of your seat and get comfy, it’s going to be a twisty ride!
Book 2 did not disappoint. Juliet was out for revenge and had zero patience for excuses, but when she hears the truth about her apartment burning down she’s no closer to letting go of the resentment or trusting ship, Nolan or Lex. She has a hard effing time trusting these boys and is constantly warring between what she thinks vs what she feels. When she finally chooses to lean into them, life starts to feel a little easier and things get a little spicier. Those boys, I think they might be even hotter this time around 🥵
Book two gives us a lot of answers, but so many new questions too! We finally learn (most of) the story of Juliet’s flashbacks/nightmares. We get ideas on her dad’s legal situation. We meet new threats, and learn more about Dario’s plan for Eastpoint. And oh my god, you guys, the ending?! Lucy’s damn good at edging us with the story! Getting us so close to what we’ve been waiting for and keeping us right on the edge with a promise of what’s to come 😅 And I’m going to be right here waiting on book 3 like the crazy woman she’s made me!
“I really wish you hadn’t ….”
You need to read the book to hear the whole statement and fully appreciate all that it is.
Now, find the edge of your seat and get comfy, it’s going to be a twisty ride!
Book 2 did not disappoint. Juliet was out for revenge and had zero patience for excuses, but when she hears the truth about her apartment burning down she’s no closer to letting go of the resentment or trusting ship, Nolan or Lex. She has a hard effing time trusting these boys and is constantly warring between what she thinks vs what she feels. When she finally chooses to lean into them, life starts to feel a little easier and things get a little spicier. Those boys, I think they might be even hotter this time around 🥵
Book two gives us a lot of answers, but so many new questions too! We finally learn (most of) the story of Juliet’s flashbacks/nightmares. We get ideas on her dad’s legal situation. We meet new threats, and learn more about Dario’s plan for Eastpoint. And oh my god, you guys, the ending?! Lucy’s damn good at edging us with the story! Getting us so close to what we’ve been waiting for and keeping us right on the edge with a promise of what’s to come 😅 And I’m going to be right here waiting on book 3 like the crazy woman she’s made me!
“I really wish you hadn’t ….”
You need to read the book to hear the whole statement and fully appreciate all that it is.
May 14, 2025
Filler book..
Nothing changed from book one. The same unlikable FMC. The ending was a cliffhanger with the heroine again being angry and suspicious of the h at the ending. Can't believed there is another book coming. Disappointed how this series wasn't for me.
Nothing changed from book one. The same unlikable FMC. The ending was a cliffhanger with the heroine again being angry and suspicious of the h at the ending. Can't believed there is another book coming. Disappointed how this series wasn't for me.
August 12, 2025
Gio = adorable
Lex = fantastic
Nolan = p*ssed off me
Nolan was… ok. His motivations and manipulations are clear and not what bother me. However, The “make you bleed” comment p*ssed me off. I feel like he knew what he was saying and still said it.
My only real complaint.
Lex = fantastic
Nolan = p*ssed off me
Nolan was… ok. His motivations and manipulations are clear and not what bother me. However, The “make you bleed” comment p*ssed me off. I feel like he knew what he was saying and still said it.
My only real complaint.
June 15, 2025
I am really enjoying these books. I love Juliet's anger and the guys obsession with her. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book, especially with that ending!
dropped
August 26, 202570% dnf
August 31, 2025
great second book. I am wondering if my suspicion about Morpheus being the one who actually set Juliet father is on point. I already suspected him SA Juliet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2025
OMG...Lucy Smoke...
I was given an ARC copy of The Demons We Hide by Lucy Smoke and Booksprout/Torchlitink for an honest review....
We left off on a cliffhanger from The Venom We Bleed with Gio in the hospital after getting jumped at the gym before he could take Juliet to the prison to visit her father, who is in for embezzlement and awaiting his court date for his trial. She finds her apartment burnt down as she gets off the bus, and she immediately believes the guys, Nolan, Lex, and Gio, burned it down to stop her from leaving them. She makes her way back to the guys on foot, not knowing that Gio is in the hospital along with Nolan, watching guard, and Lex watching through cameras to find out what happened.
But we all know they didn't do it... SO who did....
Lucy brings us back right after this moment. We have a fantastic sex scene between Lex and Jules, and she starts her revenge process.
In this book, we meet Gio's father, we get scenes of what work the guys do for him, and more Madds, Roquel, and Ma're. We get more scenes at her job and school, football games, and practice, and Lucy doesn't disappoint in the sex scenes. We get a scene with each of the guys, and Nolan, Lex, and Gio all get time with her.
I loved all the back-and-forth banter between Jules and the guys. I loved that we got a little scene with the ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend. I loved that the guys had her back even if she still didn't fully trust them.
Who is after Jules? What happened to her mother? Is her father innocent?
Let's hope we find out in the next book, as we were left on a huge cliffhanger again. Shhhh, I can't tell you what it is, but you're going to love it.
Thank you, Lucy Smoke, Booksprout, and Torchlitink, for letting me read this fantastic book, two of The Scorpion Kings Series.
I was given an ARC copy of The Demons We Hide by Lucy Smoke and Booksprout/Torchlitink for an honest review....
We left off on a cliffhanger from The Venom We Bleed with Gio in the hospital after getting jumped at the gym before he could take Juliet to the prison to visit her father, who is in for embezzlement and awaiting his court date for his trial. She finds her apartment burnt down as she gets off the bus, and she immediately believes the guys, Nolan, Lex, and Gio, burned it down to stop her from leaving them. She makes her way back to the guys on foot, not knowing that Gio is in the hospital along with Nolan, watching guard, and Lex watching through cameras to find out what happened.
But we all know they didn't do it... SO who did....
Lucy brings us back right after this moment. We have a fantastic sex scene between Lex and Jules, and she starts her revenge process.
In this book, we meet Gio's father, we get scenes of what work the guys do for him, and more Madds, Roquel, and Ma're. We get more scenes at her job and school, football games, and practice, and Lucy doesn't disappoint in the sex scenes. We get a scene with each of the guys, and Nolan, Lex, and Gio all get time with her.
I loved all the back-and-forth banter between Jules and the guys. I loved that we got a little scene with the ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend. I loved that the guys had her back even if she still didn't fully trust them.
Who is after Jules? What happened to her mother? Is her father innocent?
Let's hope we find out in the next book, as we were left on a huge cliffhanger again. Shhhh, I can't tell you what it is, but you're going to love it.
Thank you, Lucy Smoke, Booksprout, and Torchlitink, for letting me read this fantastic book, two of The Scorpion Kings Series.
July 21, 2025
3.5🌟
“I want all pieces of her—no matter how she might think they're boring or ugly. Nothing about this woman is boring or ugly. Every piece of her is perfect because every piece belongs to me.”
Every highlight on my kindle was for Lex. He is perfect and I shall hear NO criticism.
I liked to relationship progress we had in this book. I loved that the boys didn't let her go and worked to show her that she could trust them. I also loved the sprinkles of plot information and history we got in this installment. This one was very character driven, but I think now the foundation is in place for this story to really take off in book three.
*Many thanks to the author for the ARC opportunity! This review is completely voluntary and all thoughts are my own.
“I want all pieces of her—no matter how she might think they're boring or ugly. Nothing about this woman is boring or ugly. Every piece of her is perfect because every piece belongs to me.”
Every highlight on my kindle was for Lex. He is perfect and I shall hear NO criticism.
I liked to relationship progress we had in this book. I loved that the boys didn't let her go and worked to show her that she could trust them. I also loved the sprinkles of plot information and history we got in this installment. This one was very character driven, but I think now the foundation is in place for this story to really take off in book three.
*Many thanks to the author for the ARC opportunity! This review is completely voluntary and all thoughts are my own.
May 28, 2025
This is the 2ND book in this series Scorpion Kings #2 and is a why choose, dark romance with enemies to lovers and This book picks up right where book 1 ended. Ends on a CLIFFHANGER!!!!!
What to expect:
🔪Enemies to Lovers
♥Why Choose
🔪Bully Romance
♥Psycho Stalker
🔪Hate to Love
♥Dark Romance
🔪Forced Proximity
Juliette is a strong woman. But she is still paying the price for the sins of her father and she's still not sure if she can trust the guys or their is an ulterior motive at play. She is not happy they are trying to control and she is still going through so much, it's so tough for her and she hasn't forgiven them for letting her down.
The guys Lex, Nolan, and Gio are still trying to help Juliette and will do anything for her and want to keep her as close as possible. They have become quite obsessed with her and all they want is to keep her close.
Will their secrets tear these guys apart???
I love how we start to see these characters open up and we learn more about them all individually. The spice in this book is H.O.T and the story will also at times yank on your heart strings completely.
This book is full of action, mystery, tension and suspense and the connection between these characters and the steaming hot chemistry is gripping. Juliette has a deep connection with each of these guys and its different for each of them. The banter that she has with the scorpions is absolutely awesome and I'm right their with her.
I love that they are all alpha males and all are totally obsessive and possessive, too.
This book will have you on the edge of your seat with all the nail-biting tension, and you will not see all the twists and turns and real shockers coming.
I loved the storyline, well this series because you never knew what was about to happen, and I love that you are kept guessing all the way through. And I love this series can cross over a tad with the sick boys too.
This book captivated me straight away and I love how this author writes she never fails to pull you in and hold you until the end, and in this book we do get some of our questions answered.
💙MUST READ BOOK 1 FIRST💙
💙THE VENOM WE BLEED.💙
❌Check trigger warnings before you start❌
What to expect:
🔪Enemies to Lovers
♥Why Choose
🔪Bully Romance
♥Psycho Stalker
🔪Hate to Love
♥Dark Romance
🔪Forced Proximity
Juliette is a strong woman. But she is still paying the price for the sins of her father and she's still not sure if she can trust the guys or their is an ulterior motive at play. She is not happy they are trying to control and she is still going through so much, it's so tough for her and she hasn't forgiven them for letting her down.
The guys Lex, Nolan, and Gio are still trying to help Juliette and will do anything for her and want to keep her as close as possible. They have become quite obsessed with her and all they want is to keep her close.
Will their secrets tear these guys apart???
I love how we start to see these characters open up and we learn more about them all individually. The spice in this book is H.O.T and the story will also at times yank on your heart strings completely.
This book is full of action, mystery, tension and suspense and the connection between these characters and the steaming hot chemistry is gripping. Juliette has a deep connection with each of these guys and its different for each of them. The banter that she has with the scorpions is absolutely awesome and I'm right their with her.
I love that they are all alpha males and all are totally obsessive and possessive, too.
This book will have you on the edge of your seat with all the nail-biting tension, and you will not see all the twists and turns and real shockers coming.
I loved the storyline, well this series because you never knew what was about to happen, and I love that you are kept guessing all the way through. And I love this series can cross over a tad with the sick boys too.
This book captivated me straight away and I love how this author writes she never fails to pull you in and hold you until the end, and in this book we do get some of our questions answered.
💙MUST READ BOOK 1 FIRST💙
💙THE VENOM WE BLEED.💙
❌Check trigger warnings before you start❌
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