Black Heart Painted Gold

The Painted Sinners #2

by Elena Lawson

Atticus is dead to me.

But walking away isn’t an option when Seven and Elijah still need my help.

For them, I’ll do anything.

I’ll put on a mask and become someone else. I’ll slip into Ambrose’s world, play the part of his lost daughter, and dig up the secrets that can finally tip the scales in our favor.

But Ambrose is more ruthless than we ever imagined. Colder. Smarter. A monster who built his empire on blood and lies. And the deeper I go, the more the lines between hunter and prey begin to blur.

Now the only way out is together—even if that means trusting the man who betrayed me.

Atticus swears he’ll burn the world down before he lets their enemy hurt me, and part of me wants to believe him. To believe he’s as sorry as he seems when he grovels.

Because if we can’t put the past behind us, we’ll lose the only thing we have left.

Each other.

Black Heart Painted Gold is a dark, high-heat revenge romance with ruthless, morally gray antiheroes, and an undercover heroine who walks right into the lion’s den.

Genres: Dark Romance, Why Choose

602 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 5, 2026

About the author

Elena lives in Canada with her husband, daughter, and their Siberian cat overlords. She writes dark, why-choose romances full of feisty heroines, unforgettable heroes, and their kindle-melting chemistry.

When she comes out of her writing cave, she can be found binge-watching true-crime shows, obsessively rearranging her bookshelves, or chasing the sun around the globe.

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlealately

Reviews

[Danni Drummond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black Heart Painted Gold
The Painted Sinners Series book 2
By Elena Lawson

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶

🖤 Dark romance
🥀 Why choose
🖤Found Family
🥀 Forced Proximity
🖤 M@sked Men
🥀 Anastasia Vibes
🖤 Revenge

EXCUSE ME!? but what? This second instalment of The Painted Sinners Series (that was originally supposed to be one book may I add) had me feeling all my feels from giggling, to tearing up, to downright mad both at characters and maybe Elena because WHO ENDS A BOOK LIKE THAT?!

We are back to following Aurora and her men 😍 feeling out all our feels even forgiveness in this book which is a BIG thing for Aurora IYKYK because of something that happened in book 1 (White Rose Painted Red). But we also see some truths come out about Aurora's long lost parents 😉 and of course the need for Revenge is still a hot topic in this instalment.
So will they finally see it come into fruition or will father dearest destroy more than the art?

This has to be my favourite in this series so far 😍 I mean Masked men heist? Sign me up for Menage a MaskTok anyway 😉🤤
Black Heart Painted Gold releases today! March 3rd 😘🖤


#darkromance #maskedmen #masktok #bookreview #booktokfyp

[Tiffany ✨️ Bergamot Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Atticus is suffering the consequences of his own actions. After his massive accusations and threats to Aurora, she wants nothing to do with him. Elijah and Seven refuse to be the in-between as he sorts out how to gain her trust, while they enter a mission that is bound to set all of them at risk. With their hearts on the line, and a dangerous man bearing down on them, the scars from their past are bound to surface.

*****

OMFGGGGGGG! This was phenomenal. I was hoping for a book full of Atticus groveling and did this one ever deliver. His perspective of being haunted by his choices, his weaknesses, and his ill temper were absolutely perfect. I loved watching him suffer her closeness, while also her overall indifference to him while he tried to earn back her attention and trust.

I also felt like we got a further evolution into Atticus's personality, as well as the other men as they sorted out their feelings for Aurora while she risked her life for theirs. Their time apart and together gave insight into how the betrayal upset their dynamics, and I loved to see peeks of Aurora's temper, naivety and bravery throughout.

I'm so glad the authors decided to extend this duet into a series, as the twists, turns and absolutely devastating cliffhangers at the end have me dying for the next one!

*****

Thank you to the authors for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Ashley Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

Ratings
Plot: 5⭐️
Spice: 3.5🌶️

The Painted Sinners series is a MFMM dark romance featuring a badass FMC that will do anything for the men she loves and 3 morally gray MMCs that will burn the world down for her.

Black Hearts Painted Gold strongly focuses on the relationship evolution of Aurora and Atticus, while navigating the group’s plan to get revenge against Ambrose De La Rosa for what he did to Elijah and the Ashford family.

This put me through it!
Picking up where we left off in book 1, Atticus does not exist to Aurora but she agrees to the plan of impersonating the missing De La Rosa daughter.

Atticus shows so much emotional growth in this book. We see him work so much on his need to control everything and take accountability for the way he treated Aurora.

The tension between Atty and Ro is intense, and when it finally snaps and she accepts him into her RH, the spicy is HOT.

The twist at the end, finding out more about Aurora’s family is, the nightmares Eli was having about what would happen to Ro and what Ambrose eventually does to her, and finally how this book ended and not knowing what happens to Atticus, all nearly broke me.

[Sina Blaiweiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasnt big on Reverse Harems until I began this series. I was super excited to receive the ARC and dive right into book 2. I love the multiple povs and that each of the MMCs have a different style and personality. I love Aurora, and everything she stands for.
I'm really looking forward to book 3 and see how this series ends. There were a few curveballs in this book I wasn't prepared for but loved. I also really love how the book doesn't drag and use a ton of fillers, instead it just gets right to the plot!

[Lemon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plot: 4/5 • Spice: 3/5 ————-> Aurora keeps her end and still wants to take Ambrose down. Even though she’s currently still on the outs with Atticus, Seven and Eli are still by her side.


It does take almost half the book for Atticus and Aurora to reconcile. She even throws her car off a bridge just to prove how much of an asshole he is. But Atticus only does this because he’s protecting the ones he loves.


Ambrose is one step ahead of them the entire time. After the DNA tests “prove” she’s his daughter he takes her spain to see where he and his wife, auroras mother, lived.


Shit hits the fan. Auroras trackers are gone. her cell isnt working. her laptop is dead. The guys have no way to find her. Ambrose shows his true colors when Aurora thinks it’s time to return to the US. Sadly, Auroras mother makes a 5 second appearance before she’s shot down. Aurora didnt even get a chance. After being knocked out. Aurora wakes up in the same room that Eli was held in for years. Same scratch marks and everything.


The guys aren’t giving up. Sev is still in Spain trying to find a lead and the other two are meeting with Eli’s dad trying to find answers. Ends on a huge cliffy.


Here’s to hoping the guys pull through and the next book isnt some insane “2 years later” bullshit. (cus i would just
die)

[Alisha Pascual · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this sereis. Even if it was only meant to be a duet, I am not at all upset. It doesn’t seem like it’s dragging on, I feel like this is giving Aurora’s, Atticus’s, Seven’s, and Elijah’s story exactly what it needs. I loved the first book, the introduction to the boys and how Aurora came to be part of their lives. Then when things went down and Atticus messed up bad, book 2 is showing Atticus changing and coming to terms with certain things and most of all his groveling. They are still on the same trajectory of vengeance for Eli and Julian, but things go wrong and now the boys have to rescue and get their girl back. The ending of book 1 broke my heart but book 2 is healing it, and I believe that book 3 will complete it. To see the progression of not only the relationship between all four of them but of themselves, I think that was my favorite part, how they are evolving and becoming. This series is so captivating, loving it!!!

[Kendra’s Library · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you don’t like cliffhangers, wait until the next books comes out. I was a little disappointed to find out that the first and second book in this series end on a cliffhanger when they were not portrayed as that. I’m a person who likes the whole story at once, and cliffhangers and I don’t get along because I usually forget what happens by the time the next book comes out.

This book was good, but I skimmed a lot of it because it felt like there was too much context. Aurora being mad and rude to Atticus for the first 50% of the book also put me in a sour mood. She on purpose gloated with Seven and Eli to make him feel like shit. On top of that, the action with Ambrose truly only started at 75%?? It felt like there was a lot happening, but not enough related to the main plot of the story. A bit of a let down, but I’m sure I’ll end up reading the third book where the plot (HOPEFULLY) gets resolved.

[Eliza_lovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

“If I have to be the F^cking Villain, I’m the F ^cking Villain, Aurora.”

Black Heart Painted Gold really put us through it, specifically Daddicus. Atty, learned what it meant to grovel and seek forgiveness while working on himself at the same time…

I loved found family and seriously fell in love with these characters in book one, and book two delivered what we were desperately waiting for… I will say, this book definitely falls under dark romantic suspense and I love it!

You’ll get the same dopamine hit with heists and thievery in this book with added plot around revenge. On, and there might be a primal scene…

[Books, Booze & Bon Voyage (Krista Webster) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Black Heart Painted Gold by Elena Lawson is the second book in The Painted Sinners series. A dark why choose, romantic suspense which continues the story about Aurora, Atticus, Elijah, Seven and the adorable four legged Ellie. It is a long book full of twists and turns as the plot builds and we learn more about all the main characters. It’s a captivating read as the vengeance they seek isn’t just for the guys and Julian anymore, but now also for Aurora as she is faced with the truth about her parents. The multiple POV’s really enhance the story as each character has a different view on their revenge mission and how to deal with all the memories from the past, then add in their feelings for Aurora and how they can keep her safe. Are they finally a few steps ahead of Ambrose or will it all blow up in their faces.

Atticus lost it at the end of the first book and is now struggling with the consequences of his actions. Aurora told him she doesn’t exist for him anymore and he’s forbidden to speak to her. His character has so many layers and slowly the author reveals them which helps to understand this complicated man. He has been though a lot and the other two mean the world to him, which makes him overprotective towards them. He is uncompromising with their safety and will do anything to keep them alive. They trusted Ambrose and he betrayed them so he knows how Ro feels over what he did. Will she forgive him and still help them with their plan because he has put everything in place so they are good to go.

Since the incident Eli and Sev have forgiven him but are still angry with him and are treating him differently. Seven is again the crazy volatile one who often goes off at a tangent but regularly infuses the humour by his actions and conversations. Eli is the quiet one still trying to process all that happened to him especially as Ro is going to have to deal with his nemesis. He is so adorable and my heart goes out to him as he struggles physically and emotionally.

Ro is so angry because his impulsive actions hurt and scared her. She trusted him but he betrayed her so he has lots of grovelling to do. She agrees to still help them but can she pull it off or will she end up risking her life for them. To set the scene she enrols in college and I loved their ingenious way to keep in touch with her. She is faced with some difficult scenarios and a revelation that might change everything with the guys. At times she is so brave and angry for the guys but at others she shows her vulnerability and naivety of the situation. I really liked her relationship with Celine and her blossoming friendship with Maisie.

They are all broken in some way and Ro has fitted in so well with all three. She has helped them all in some way, just like they have done with her. They fulfil all the different sides of her personality. Eli is so sweet and kind with her, they comfort each other. Seven has such an intense chemistry with her and fulfils her naughty side. Atticus works hard for his redemption.

The guys have a fierce bond and desire for their kind of justice but Atticus is worried Ro has underestimated the danger and how conniving Ambrose is. When horrific secrets are revealed, suddenly more is at stake. The author develops these characters so well throughout the story that regardless of what they may do, you will want them to succeed. Ro is faced with the truth about her parents and the guys are all forced to confront their past. It gets very intense as the tension and risks increase as things don’t go to plan. A frightening cliffhanger for the final book.

[Faiza BEGUM · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second installment in Painted Sinners series by Elena Lawson was an automatic add-to-TBR for me. After stumbling into the first book on a recommendation and procrastinating for far too long before starting it, I ended up completely consumed. I hadn’t even realized it was the beginning of a trilogy until that brutal final moment hit—and by then, I was locked in.

Book two wastes no time. It throws you right back into the chaos left behind, immersing you in the aftermath, the danger simmering beneath the surface, and the emotional wreckage the characters are forced to confront. The atmosphere leans heavily into dark romantic suspense—revenge brewing, secrets unraveling, loyalties tested. There’s an underlying tension humming through every chapter that makes it impossible to “just read one more page.”

Aurora, Atticus, Elijah, and Seven remain at the heart of the story, and their dynamic is as complicated as ever. As far as Atticus goes? My sympathy tank is empty. The consequences circling him feel justified, and watching him attempt to reconstruct himself—however imperfectly—is fascinating. Seven continues to be the chaotic spark plug of the group, somehow both unhinged and endearing. Elijah’s quieter journey of healing adds depth, especially as he grapples with everything that shaped him. And Aurora? She truly shines here.

Aurora’s development is one of the strongest elements of this installment. She’s navigating a relationship structure that would overwhelm most people—three men bound by fierce loyalty and shared history, each carrying scars of their own. Rather than being swallowed by their world, she’s carving out her place in it. Her strength doesn’t come from stubborn defiance but from resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. Watching her step fully into her power felt organic and deeply satisfying.

Clocking in at nearly six hundred pages, the book never drags. The plot escalates steadily, layering steam, suspense, and character growth in a way that feels intentional rather than excessive. Just when you think you understand the direction of their revenge-driven mission, the narrative pivots. The stakes climb higher, and there were multiple moments where I had to pause just to process what had unfolded. Humor sneaks in at the perfect times, balancing the darker edges of the story.

This trilogy follows the same central cast throughout, so starting with book one is non-negotiable. It’s a contemporary reverse harem (mfmm, no mm pairing), and the spice level is undeniably high. Each male lead brings a distinct energy to the relationship—the volatile yet oddly affectionate wildcard, the commanding protector type, and the wounded soul still piecing himself back together. Together, they create a dynamic that feels intense, messy, and strangely tender.

Be aware that the story explores heavier themes, and checking the trigger warnings is absolutely recommended. While I’ve read darker romances before, some elements here may not work for every reader.

And yes—the ending leaves you dangling again. With book three slated for release in October, the countdown has officially begun. If you’re a fan of dark RH with emotional depth, escalating tension, and characters you can’t help but root for, this series deserves a spot on your shelf.

[Jenifer Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are so back baby!! Aurora and her men -- yes, even that one -- are here to give us the edge of our seat tension and an all encompassing love that you can just feel leaping off the page. But be warned; you thought that last cliffy was bad? That's child's play compared to this. I need October to huuuuuuury uppppppp!!!

We start right where we left off with Atticus jumping to the wrong conclusion and losing Aurora right when he had her, and the consequences of being shut out and the lengths he will go to get back in her good graces. Honestly, I appreciated how 80% of this book was him groveling and proving he would never hurt her again, while also being her protector-- unbeknownst to her of course. The way she broke down his walls, the way he let her see the real him, just chefs kiss!

Then we have Seven, who just might be my favorite psycho boyfriend ever. Even though he hasn't said the words, he knows he loves her and will do anything to protect her. And he respects her choices, even though being without her terrifies him. They have some of the best scenes in this entire book, and him calling her "my baby"? I SWOON.

Elijah, our beautiful soul, is destined to not to let his angel face the same horrors he did. He wants to respect the decisions she's making, and he realizes that she's doing it for him and the other two men who own her heart, but he's so scared of what could happen if things go wrong, and how empty his life would be without her in it.

Aurora really stole the show here. She's no longer scared or running away, but facing everything head on and is determined to get vengeance on the person who ruined her newfound family. She's also embracing her dark side, and I LOVED that so much. Her relationship with each of the guys are so different, yet they all complete each other in such a beautiful way.

Everything that happens between her and Ambrose is a huge spoiler since there's another book coming out, but just know you will be on the EDGE of your seat! The last few chapters had me gasping and giving me major Boys Of Briar flashbacks-- IYKYK.

I am just in awe of this book and this world our author has created. I just know I am going to be counting down the days until the last book is in my greedy hands!!

**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **



*********************************

Easily one of the best books I have ever read, and that's saying something with how much I loved the first one. But that ending?!?!? CMON, ELENA, DON'T DO ME LIKE THAT. If you've read the Boys Of Briar Hall, and you got to the cliffy of the third book, this is just like that except 1000 times worse. My heart is BROKEN, and I need the last book more than the air in my lungs😭😭😭😭😭😭

**full rtc

[Midnight Tails and Chapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black Heart Painted Gold by Elena Lawson is exactly the kind of sequel that throws you straight back into the fire and then turns up the heat.

Picking up immediately after the chaos of book one, the story dives headfirst into the fallout, the danger still simmering under the surface, and the emotional wreckage the characters are left to sort through. Revenge is brewing, secrets keep peeling back, and every chapter carries that delicious tension that makes it impossible to stop reading.

Aurora, Atticus, Elijah, and Seven remain the chaotic heart of the story. Aurora truly shines in this installment. She is navigating a relationship dynamic that would overwhelm most people, yet instead of being swallowed by their world she steadily carves out her place within it. Her strength shows up through resilience, emotional intelligence, and quiet determination. Watching her step fully into her power felt incredibly satisfying.

Now let us talk about Atticus. My sympathy tank remains completely empty. After the events of the first book he absolutely earned the consequences circling him. That said, watching him unravel under the weight of his own guilt was oddly compelling. His chapters are full of regret, frustration, and a growing awareness of just how badly he messed up. The groveling I was hoping for absolutely delivered. Seeing him forced to exist near Aurora while she treated him with cool indifference was a special kind of emotional torture and honestly very entertaining.
Seven continues to be the lovable menace of the group, bringing chaotic energy and humor at exactly the right moments. Elijah’s quieter journey of healing adds depth to the story as he continues working through the scars of his past while protecting the people he loves.

This book was addictive, I devoured it and lost sleep to do so! The pacing stays tight, the revenge plot keeps evolving, and the story balances steam, suspense, and character growth in a way that never feels bloated. Just when you think you understand where things are heading, the narrative pivots and raises the stakes again.

Dark romance readers will find plenty to love here
🥀 Why choose
🖤 Found family
🥀 Forced proximity
🖤 Masked men
🥀 Anastasia vibes
🖤 Revenge

And yes, it ends with another devastating cliffhanger. Turning what was originally meant to be a duet into a full series was absolutely the right choice, because now I need the next installment immediately - I also can’t wait for the audio!

[Danielle Spellbound Stories · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black Heart Painted Gold sucked me straight back into the chaos, tension, and dark devotion that made me fall for this world in the first place. Elena Lawson and Blake Lawson waste no time throwing readers straight into the fallout of book one. The emotional stakes feel even sharper this time, and the tension between Aurora and her men kept me completely locked in.

Aurora continues to impress me as a heroine. She is fierce, resilient, and far more complicated than she first appeared. Watching her navigate the dangerous world surrounding Atticus, Elijah, and Seven while still finding her own strength made her journey even more compelling. Each of the men brings something different to the dynamic, and the way their relationships evolve adds another layer of intensity to an already gripping story. Also, Ellie continues to steal scenes as the most lovable four-legged member of this chaotic little family.

One thing this series does exceptionally well is balance emotional character work with a plot that never stops moving. Secrets continue to unravel, the danger keeps escalating, and every chapter feels like another piece of a much larger puzzle. The authors know exactly how to keep the tension simmering while deepening the bond between these characters in ways that feel raw and earned.

And yes. That ending. UGH. It’s exquisite torture. Let’s just say Elena and Blake clearly enjoy emotionally tormenting their readers. Just when you think you might finally catch your breath, the rug gets pulled out from under you again. I actually caught myself trying to flip the page, convinced the story couldn’t possibly end there. Surely they wouldn’t be that cruel.

I still love them, of course. But I will absolutely be staring at that final page and wishing desperately for the next book. It could happen. You never know.🤔😉

If White Rose Painted Red pulled me into this twisted, addictive world, Black Heart Painted Gold tightened the grip. I’m fully invested now and counting the days until we see where this chaotic, dangerous found family lands next. I truly cannot wait for the next Painted Sinners book.

Story: 5⭐
Spice: 3.5🌶️

Genre:
🖤 Dark Romance

Tropes/Themes:
🖤 Dark Why Choose
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Revenge
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
🖤 Top Tier Grovel
🖤 Only Soft for Her
🖤 Primal Play
🖤 Murder as a Love Language
🖤 Who Hurt Them
🖤 Psycho Golden Retriever

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in Elena Lawson’s Painted Sinners series, and if you’ve read book one, you already know there was no world in which I wasn’t grabbing this ARC the second I saw it. A friend recommended the first book to me, and it sat on my Kindle for a while....until I finally opened it and got completely hooked. I didn’t even realize it was part of a series until that cliffhanger hit, and by then I was fully invested.

This sequel picks up exactly where book one ends, dropping you straight back into the danger, tension, and emotional fallout. The dark romantic suspense elements are strong here....there’s movement, mystery, revenge, and a constant sense of “what now?” that keeps the pages turning.

We’re still following Aurora, Atticus, Elijah, and Seven, and let me be very clear: I do not feel bad for Atticus. Not even a little.🤷🏾‍♀️🤣 After the events of book one, he earned every consequence that finds him. Seven remains the lovable menace of the group, Elijah is still healing and trying to reconcile with his past, and Atticus is… attempting to be a better man, even if that man barely exists.

Aurora’s growth is one of the highlights of this book. She’s still navigating the complicated dynamic with these three men.....men who love each other deeply, who have their own wounds and loyalties, and who now have to make space for her. She was thrown into their world without warning, but she’s learning, adapting, and finding her footing in ways that feel earned and satisfying.

This book is nearly 600 pages, and I devoured it. The pacing is tight, the emotional beats land, and the twists on their path toward revenge are genuinely gripping. There’s humor, tension, tenderness, and several moments where I had to stop and breathe because the stakes were that high. And yes—it ends on another cliffhanger. Book three arrives in October, and I’m already counting down.

⚠️
This is a dark romance with strong dark romantic suspense elements. Expect emotional intensity, trauma recovery, and moments of primal play. As always, please check your triggers—only you can protect your mental well‑being.

I think if you love dark romance with complicated men grab this!

[Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Atticus' grovel and redemption tour is next level and worthy of reading Black Heart Painted Gold all on its own!

This is the second book for the Painted Sinners series and it picks up right where we left Aurora, Seven, Elijah, and Atticus. This is not a standalone, so please read responsibly.

While the first book dove into who these characters were, individually and then together as Ro began connecting with each guy, one on one, there was an overall plot that continues forward into this book. Ambrose is still the main bad guy and collectively they all have decided to work together to take him down. Within this story there is a deeper uncovering of emotions, a deeper look at each characters feelings, and a larger sense of pending doom that begins to settle as this group gets emotionally closer to Ro and begins to understand one another better as they fit together as a group, especially once old wounds finally begin to mend.

It's not an easy journey, especially for two strong willed individuals like Atticus and Ro, but it's a path they both need to take and one that is worth the hard fought emotional battle to get there. 🥹

Seven, my favorite psycho-golden retriever whom I love more than words. He constantly makes me happier than all of his red flags should. He's the perfect fit for Ro's aggressive side. Matching her crazy with no questions asked. Who wouldn't love that. He's by far one of my all time favorite book boyfriends and that will never change. ❤️

Eli is still uncovering deeper moments and revealing that there is so much more to understand about this quiet, talented man. I also love that he brings out a gentleness in Ro, a side she needs from time to time, especially when her life is constantly in torment.

Each guy brings out a different part of her and it's why she craves them all and they all understand that need in her and respect it. It's beautiful.  The character progression and development was wonderful in this second book as the plot progressed right along with the story. Lots of plot mixed with all the intense chemistry and of course Atticus' redemption tour. I can’t wait to see what happens next.

[Read with J · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review Black heart painted gold

Releasing: March 5th

Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐

""

Tropes:
Book 2 in trilogy
Damaged heros
Badass fmc
Found family
Groveling
Revenge

Woww, that's the first thing in my mind when I finished this book. It had me from the first to the very last page, there was not one dull moment!. And now we are getting even more after this!?, when Elena announced that this was gonna be a trilogy, I was beyond ecited!!.

The book picked up right after were the first one ended, with Atticus in the dog house ;). But let's be honest it was very deserved and THE GROVELING, damnn I was very here for it. In this book we got to know the characters even more, which was very welcome. I felt so much for Aurora and the rollarcoaster she had to go trough in this book, but luckely she has some amazing guys that were always there for her no matter what, even Atticus. The found family trope really shines trough in this story and that is so heartwarming to read, people who find each other when they feel alone and want love.

What I did not expect continued this series was that crazy plot towards the middel/end of the book, that was CRAZY!. Elena outdid herself with this book and I think it was such a amazing decision to make this a trilogy, a duet would not have been enough!.

We really got a book packed with emotion and lots of plottwists, every page I was like, what is gonna happen next?. The book was long but I never had a moment of, "when is this gonna end" it was entertaining from page to page.

I know there will be so much more to this series and for Aurora and her guys, cause damnn ELENA did you really have to end this on SUCH a CLIFFHANGER!!. I need to know what is gonna happen like yesterday, I am so ready!.

Thank you so much Elena for letting me be a part of the masterlist and getting an arc for this book,
it was amazing. If you're looking for you're next dark romance packed with emotion and plottwists, than the painted sinners series is for you!. Black heart painted gold comes out March 5th.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMFGGGG, I am officially gutted! 🤯 If White Rose Painted Red pulled me into this twisted world, Black Heart Painted Gold just tightened the grip and turned up the heat until I was screaming. Picking up immediately after the chaos of book one, we find Atticus suffering the absolute consequences of his own actions. If you were praying for a top-tier redemption tour, this is it. Seeing "Daddicus" unravel under the weight of his guilt while Aurora treats him with stone-cold indifference was the emotional torture I didn't know I needed. He spends the majority of this book groveling and letting his walls crumble just to earn back a shred of her trust—it is pure, unadulterated chef’s kiss. 🤌✨

Aurora completely stole the show in this installment. She’s no longer running; she’s facing the danger head-on and embracing her dark side to get vengeance for her found family. Watching her navigate her unique relationship with each guy was so rewarding. There’s Seven, my favorite "psycho-golden retriever" who matches her crazy with zero questions asked, and then sweet Elijah, whose quiet journey of healing and protection broke my heart. The individual connections are so well-crafted, and the group dynamic is electric. The chemistry is volatile and led to some insane moments—the office and the sauna scenes are burned into my brain! 🔥

Now, let's talk about that ending. I’ll be the first to admit: I absolutely HATE cliffhangers. They usually make me so upset, and this one is the definition of exquisite torture. It’s even more brutal than the first book! But honestly? As much as it's killing me, it’s exactly why I’m so excited for book three. Turning this into a full series was the best decision because there is just too much at stake to end it now. I am officially in "impatient mode" until book 3 returns. But I will patiently wait for the audio to come out lol.

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

It feels like I waited forever for this book and it was certainly worth the wait!! I was thrilled to receive an ARC and I’m already itching to read the next book.

This book is genuinely very well written. The characters suck you in to their stories so quickly and the plot is engaging. It’s dark enough for dark romance enjoyers but also funny, emotional, romantic, and sexy. The pacing and storytelling are genuinely phenomenal- I was never bored and often this can be hard to find in these types of dark romance novels. I also really really appreciate how the MMMF dynamic for these characters is written- special care and attention is paid to individual relationships (Aurora’s individual connections with Elijah, Seven, and Atticus but also the guys’ long term/found family connections with one another) as well as the overall group dynamic which I think is super important.

I said I was looking forward to Atticus groveling and this definitely did not disappoint. The way it was handled makes Aurora’s journey to trusting him again that much more gratifying. Everything the characters do and say is so well crafted, especially how they all responded to the events at the end of book 1. The suspense and cliffhangers are just enough to keep me on the edge of my seat without being too cheesy or over the top. I don’t think I looked up from my kindle for those last 100 pages.

If you are looking for a dark romance/RH with a really strong plot and good writing, pleeeeease do yourself a favor and pick this one up!!! I will be (im)patiently waiting for the third book later this year! Also, I highly recommend the audiobook for book 1 and cannot wait to listen to the audiobook for this one when it comes out!

[Emily Knaus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, book one (White Roses Painted Red) had an ending that gutted me but also thoroughly intrigued me… I was seeing a genius plan and lots of groveling in the next book and didn’t disappoint.

Aurora meets her men: Seven, Elijah, and Atticus. She forms bonds uniquely with each of them. They all reveal their pasts and how she could potentially help and then BAM! Atticus goes and almost freaking ruins it. Because of this I knew that book two had to have a lot of groveling and internal conflict between the two.

When I say I am obsessed with these four characters, oh who am I kidding… six of them including Ellie and Celine would be an understatement.

I love the bond that Aurora has with each of the guys and how she helps them in different ways. Sev is the playful, twisty lover with a primal play kink and I am here for it. Elijah literally worships the ground she walks on and values her compassion so much. And then Daddicus, he grovels hard and in ways that really count. Cooking her meals, taking care of Ellie and *trying* to be patient and listen to her. Their reunion in the sauna…. steamy!! (Pun intended). Atticus is the protector and the fearless defender and will do whatever it takes to keep them all safe.

This book dives so much deeper into Ro’s past. By the end we learn so so much and are so close to obtaining those heirlooms that hold so much sentimental worth but are just out of reach. That cliffhanger created a pit in the bottom of my stomach. Seeing Aurora have the same fate as Elijah… oof. I was not prepared. Literally chomping at the bit for the third and final installment. It cannot come soon enough.

A huge thank you to Elena Lawson and The Author Agency for the early copy

[addictedtodarkromance · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the last book, Atticus made some shocking choices that he is now regretting and trying to figure out how to earn Aurora's trust back. Seven and Elijah still need help with Ambrose and she is willing to do whatever it takes to do that, even if she has to risk herself.

Book 1 introduced us to the storyline and the characters, and Book 2 is about developing them. Each of them have their own personal growth challenge that is deeply emotional which ends up strengthening their relationship as it brings them closer together.

The guys are all-in with Aurora and because they all have unique personalities each of them are able to fulfill the different aspects of her. And even though it's only her, she's able to offer them something similar. The spice is super hot and steamy!!
 
I don't want to give much away but the plot thickens and we're kept on the edge of our seats, trying to figure out what's going to happen and ends with a crazy cliffhanger.
 
Overall: 4.25 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice/Heat: 3 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Main Characters: Atticus, Elijah (Eli), Seven (Sev) & Aurora (Ro)
Darkness: 2 out of 5 🖤🖤
Type of book: MFMM, RH, Multiple 1st Person POV
Reading Order: Trilogy - Books need to be read in order
Title: The Painted Sinners Duet Trilogy- Black Heart Painted Gold: Book 2
Ending Type: Cliffhanger
 
 
*Dominant, and protective MMCs
*Eyes only for her
*Grovel
*Revenge
*No cheating or sharing outside the relationship
 
 
⚠️ This book has descriptive parts that may be offensive or triggering to some. Please check all the authors' TW/CW before reading! 18+
 
*I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily writing this review.

[Kristen (IG: books.n.snakes) · Rating 5 out of 5]

🖤 𝔹𝕝𝕒𝕔𝕜 ℍ𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕥 ℙ𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝔾𝕠𝕝𝕕 𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 🖤

𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙘𝙚. 𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙜𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙙.

𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦: 𝘗𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘚𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴
🥀 ᴡʜɪᴛᴇ ʀᴏꜱᴇ ᴘᴀɪɴᴛᴇᴅ ʀᴇᴅ
🥀 ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛ ᴘᴀɪɴᴛᴇᴅ ɢᴏʟᴅ
🥀 ʀᴇᴅ Qᴜᴇᴇɴ ᴘᴀɪɴᴛᴇᴅ ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ

"𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙨𝙚𝙙, 𝙍𝙤? 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙝?"

𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦
🧺 ᴛᴏᴘ ᴛɪᴇʀ ɢʀᴏᴠᴇʟɪɴɢ
🧺 ʀᴇᴠᴇɴɢᴇ
🧺 ᴡʜʏ ᴄʜᴏᴏꜱᴇ
🧺 ᴡʜᴏ ʜᴜʀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ
🧺 ᴘꜱʏᴄʜᴏ ɢᴏʟᴅᴇɴ ʀᴇᴛʀɪᴇᴠᴇʀ
🧺 ᴅᴀᴍᴀɢᴇᴅ ʜᴇʀᴏ’ꜱ
🧺 ꜰᴏᴜɴᴅ ꜰᴀᴍɪʟʏ
🧺 ʙᴀᴅᴀꜱꜱ ꜰᴍᴄ

"𝙒𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙞𝙧𝙩𝙝𝙙𝙖𝙮?" … "𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙮𝙤𝙪."

📖𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪📖
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗙𝗠𝗖: Aurora/Ro
𝗠𝗠𝗖: Seven/Sev
𝗠𝗠𝗖: Atticus/Atty/Daddicus
𝗠𝗠𝗖: Elijah/Eli

This second installment in the 𝙋𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙎𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮 was slam packed full of action.

What I loved the most was the groveling we see from Atty, I knew he was going to come through with it. I loved his character development the most this go round. You can see him really trying to let go of some of that control for Ro. And the SAUNA. 🥵 🙂‍↕️

We also see Sev a bit more vulnerable in this towards the end, and I enjoyed seeing this side. We all love Sev and his wit and free spirit, but it was nice to see that even he has internal crash outs.

Our sweet Eli, god he’s precious. I loved watching him attempt to overcome his fears, he’s too sweet to be in so much pain. I want to wrap him up and protect his little heart at all costs.

Lastly, our Ro. I wonder if our girl is a Taurus like me because she so bullheaded. She latched on to that grudge and went in full throttle. 🚗 💥

I think she also felt like she had so much to prove to the boys, and just wanted to help them get the revenge their family deserves. But this landed her in a tricky situation.

Elena left us on a cliffy for this one, and I’m on pins and needles waiting for RQPB

[The Millennial Mood Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖?"

"𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈,"

Wow!! I am gutted!! What a cliffhanger!! This book had so many twists and turns! I felt like I’ve been on the craziest rollercoasters and I’m with Aurora - “𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛#𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚.” Not really, I freaking loved it!! This book picked up right after the first with our Daddicus groveling for a good portion of the book! As he should have! This book was a little slower than the first really setting up the plot and allowing the characters to be explored more. I love that Aurora stating no ish from Atty and making him work for it. Sweet Elijah… and what he’s working through and trying to connect with something he had a passion for. Seven being Seven gosh I just love him! He’s a morally grey golden retriever with literally ‘Touch her & 💀’ vibes! The spice wasn’t as prevalent but the scenes that did happened holy sh!t! That office scene 🥵🔥🥵 I had to reread it twice lol! The d!ckfetti had me cackling!!
The plot really went for a ride around 70-75% and I was just holding on for dear life! Felt like I was holding my breath until I hit the last page! And that cliffhanger! Gosh there is just so much to unpack that happened towards the end! Again I am left feeling so many emotions!! I need the next book ASAP!! Thoroughly, enjoyed this one! If you want a spicy, why choose series that will keep you guessing then add this series to your TBR!!
4.5⭐️s
3🌶️
What to Expect:
Dark Romance
Why Choose
Top Tier Grovel
Touch Her & 💀
Found Family
Primal Play
Only Soft For Her
Who Hurt Them
M#rder as a love language
Group Play 👀
Revenge/ Heist

Thank you to Elena Lawson and The Author Agency for allowing me to ARC read! All options are my own!

[Katie Crossley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I hate cliffhangersssss 😂😭 they hurt me so deeply. Gah.

Okay so! This book was good, 4/5 for me. I do have to say that it did feel slightly lacking in the sense of plot up until the end. It felt like a lot of waiting really like nothing really happened at all until the end? Now that is not to say that I didn’t enjoy it because how it kind of was set up was the first half was her and Atticus working on things and then the second half was the revenge plot. So there was stuff going on, it just felt a tad lackluster which is why I can’t give it a 5 star. It also felt like it was really lacking in the spice department. There was like one big scene and then a 1-2 small ones? But lots got brushed over it felt like in this one. I would have liked to have seen more.


Good parts: From like 70-75% onward I was a nervous wreck; I was so locked in to what was happening lmao. Like I genuinely was like “ohhh fuck. Ohhh fuck” every two seconds lmfao. I was freaking out for them hahaha. The cliffhanger fucking murdered me though. I did also like that I didn’t fully guess every plot twist. That was a nice feeling, I did guess some of them but not the big stuff. The spicy scenes that we had were very good, enjoyed that immensely. I enjoyed characters and how they were navigating things. I just really love them all so much. Super excited to read the third and final book!

Spice scale like 2.5/5 just because of the content of the big scene but there really isn’t a lot happening in this one.

I did receive this ebook as an arc from the author for my honest opinion! Thank you Elena Lawson I am honored! 💓

[Mandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wild ride!
First I would like to thank Elena Lawson so much for the advance copy of book 2 the first book definitely had me hooked from the start and I was dying to read this one.

Now let's get into book 2- BHPG
First I would like to say while Atticus wasn't my favorite of our boys and agree he needed to do some groveling but I feel like Aurora could have gave in a little sooner. I felt so bad for him! I did really love the 1 on 1 time she got to have with Sev and Elijah though.
And that group scene.... Yesss Plz 🥵

Watching Ro's relationship develop with our boys together and separately was amazing. The author really made me feel like I was Aurora. And the Character growth for Aurora was so exciting having her become the bada$$ she knows she is!
Atticus I believe starts to heal in this book learning to let go and release some of his control.
Sev omg is my favorite 😍 I love how completely unhinged he is for Ro, and how everything is her decision and him with Eleven 😭
Elijah my poor baby he is still struggling with his past trauma. Trying to work through and heal while also being thrust back into it when events unfold.

I felt like the story in this book was a little slower to get started (its for the plot) and then bam very fast paced lots happening in the end with the twists and turns some I seen coming but will say the main events I did not! I was def on the edge of my seat in the last chapters! I am really excited for the finally book to see how everything comes together for our hearm.

🖤Reverse Harem
🖤Cliffhanger
🖤Group Scene 🌶🌶🌶
🖤Stabby Boyfriends
🖤Masked Men

Must Read Book 1 White Rose Painted Red ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Overall Book 2
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶

[Christen Degner · Rating 5 out of 5]

AHHH!! What do you mean there’s a third book 😫
Another cliffhanger!!
I literally scared the sh!t out of my husband when I got to the end of this book!
I yelled and slid out of my chair saying “no! no! no!”
😂

Sorry had to get that reaction out of the way because ughhhhhh

I am so thankful I was selected to receive a ARC of this book!
I read the first one and was dying for book 2!!

I was not a ARC reader for the 1st book.
But I’m going to do a 2-in-1 review!

From the very start these books had me in a chokehold!
How did this epic love story start?

Well….

She kinda hit one of them with her car..😬
On accident of course!!!
In her defense she was running from a very toxic relationship

Seven (yes like the number), Elijah, and Atticus decided she could repay them for hitting Seven by becoming their live in housekeeper.
To a house was was already spotless..

Tention starts to brew…
First, it was with Seven.. our precious little psycho
Second, Elijah.. our ex-painter with a traumatic past that left scars.. physically and mentally
And finally.. Atticus *aka Daddicus*, who had to have every single morsel of control or… well ill let you find that part out…

Aurora wants to help
Help get their vengeance for what happened to Elijah and his family..

Little does she know, she’s a lot closer to the enemy than any of them realize.. 🤐

You won’t want to put these books down!!

Yes, they both end in cliffhangers.. but isn’t that the thrill of reading?
The anticipation..

I promise! You will not be disappointed!!

Oh! One last thing….
Did I mention this is a Why-Choose??? 🔥🌶️🥵

As always! Check your triggers!!🖤
This is a dark romance!

[TheBookishK9RN · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elena Lawson did exactly what needed to be done here — she made Atticus suffer.

After his massive accusations and threats toward Aurora, she wants nothing to do with him. And honestly? Fair. The fallout isn’t brushed aside. Seven and Elijah refuse to play middleman while Atticus tries to claw his way back into her trust, and at the same time, they’re walking into a mission that could destroy all of them.

The emotional tension in this book is relentless. Atticus is haunted by his choices — his temper, his weaknesses, the damage he caused — and we live inside that regret with him. Watching him ache over Aurora’s indifference, watching him exist in her space while she withholds closeness? Deliciously painful.

And Aurora doesn’t go soft just because he’s sorry. We get to see her temper. Her bravery. Even her naivety at times as she risks her life for the very men who broke her trust. The betrayal didn’t just wound their relationship — it fractured the entire dynamic, and this book really digs into that evolution.

The undercover angle with Ambrose only raises the stakes. Slipping into his world, pretending to be his lost daughter, digging for secrets while a ruthless, calculating monster watches every move? The tension is constant. Ambrose isn’t sloppy evil — he’s cold and strategic, which makes every interaction feel like a trap waiting to snap.

And the grovel? Oh, it delivers. Atticus swears he’ll burn the world down before he lets their enemy touch her again — and the story makes you believe him. His remorse feels raw. Earned. Painful.

[Emilee Perkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: 5 🌟
𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐂𝐄: 3.5/5

🥀𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝟸 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙿𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚂𝚒𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚃𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚘𝚐𝚢 *𝚍𝚞𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚙𝚘𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝙼𝚄𝚂𝚃 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝟷* 𝚆𝚑𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚁𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝙿𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚁𝚎𝚍

🖤First of all, HUGE thank you to Elena Lawson and The Author Agency for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

🖤I read the first one on a whim and it had me hooked from the first chapter!! Even though I’m slowing down on ARCs this year…I simply had to have this one! Holy shit did it deliver!!! I love a why choose but I’m super picky with them. This one is done perfectly! Atticus was quite literally on he’s knees groveling and it was chefs fucking kiss! Of course Elijah and especially Seven were top tier but I needed Daddicus to redeem himself after that shitshow in book 1 and he gave me what I needed and so much more! My girl Aurora, you are a force but yet so vulnerable with what your heart and I have to say at times she frustrated me but I did understand her and connect with her on a deep level. And my fur baby Ellie! You were a joy once again and I would take a bullet for you.

💛The suspense, the edge of your seat, the plot twists, the spice was 🥵 (I mean the laundry mat scene will forever live in my brain), the story itself is just laid out and balanced in all the right ways. I’m so excited that the author has decided to make this a trilogy because it really plays out like a movie and I needed so much more! I’ve already ordered it for my trophy shelf. Loved loved loved it!!!

𝑷𝑺: 𝑱𝒖𝒍𝒊𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒖𝒈 𝒂𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒄𝒓𝒚.

[Amanda Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

🖤 Dark romance
🥀 Why choose
🖤Found Family
🥀 Forced Proximity
🖤 M@sked Men
🥀 Anastasia Vibes
🖤 Revenge

Black Heart Painted Gold by Elena Lawson is the second book in The Painted Sinners series. A dark why choose, romantic suspense which continues the story about Aurora, Atticus, Elijah, Seven and the adorable four legged Ellie. It is a long book full of twists and turns as the plot builds and we learn more about all the main characters. It’s a captivating read as the vengeance they seek isn’t just for the guys and Julian anymore, but now also for Aurora as she is faced with the truth about her parents.

This was phenomenal. I was hoping for a book full of Atticus groveling and did this one ever deliver. His perspective of being haunted by his choices, his weaknesses, and his ill temper were absolutely perfect. I loved watching him suffer her closeness, while also her overall indifference to him while he tried to earn back her attention and trust.

Book two wastes no time. It throws you right back into the chaos left behind, immersing you in the aftermath, the danger simmering beneath the surface, and the emotional wreckage the characters are forced to confront. The atmosphere leans heavily into dark romantic suspense—revenge brewing, secrets unraveling, loyalties tested. There’s an underlying tension humming through every chapter that makes it impossible to “just read one more page.”


If you’re a fan of dark RH with emotional depth, escalating tension, and characters you can’t help but root for, this series deserves a spot on your shelf.

[Michelle VanHuss · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my most anticipated reads for 2026 and it did not disappoint! I've been telling everyone about this series and was so excited to get my hands on this ARC.

Black Heart Painted Gold picks up right where White Rose Painted Red left off so definately needs to be read in order. The reverse harem continues including a sharing scene. The ending felt like when you thought you had a few more fries but you reach in the bag and find them all gone - I didn't want it to end! I need the final book of the series, stat!

Each of the guys have their issues to work through but Aurora/Ro/Angel/Trouble seems to be a catalyst to inspire them. Elijah needs to find himself again. Dadditus has a long road of figuring out how to let someone new in and make ammends for his actions at the end of the last book. And Seven is just Seven but he makes me melt. We get to see how our MCs try to integrate into the world around them while continuing on their mission. A little vigilanty justice anyone?

The spice is spicing but I actually like that we don't just scene after scene and we get to keep the plot moving forward.

You think you know what's going to happen but no you don't. I had a few moments where I had to put the book down and stare at the wall for a minutes while absorbing what just happened.

I can't recommend this book enough! Advanced Reader Copy received from the author is exchange for my honest review.

[kimcollectsbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

For this book, we continue right where we left off in the first book, and I was definitely SAT. The writing continued to keep me drawn in, and the twists and turns kept coming!

First, I am glad we see Atticus struggle!! He deserved it after what he did to Aurora, and it was nice to see him have to fight for her attention. We also get to see him wrestle his feelings for Aurora. However, at a certain point, I did feel myself getting frustrated at Aurora for dragging it on so long and not forgiving him.

We get to learn more about Seven, Elijah and Atticus and their backstories which really helped us understand their actions and present day personalities. Aurora grows closer to them and figures out how to fit as a piece in their puzzle. The way they are also so loving and protective of her? Swoon-worthy. The spice continued to be spicy, probably even more so than the first book. However, some of the moments became so emotional, especially the scene between Aurora and Elijah.

There were some parts that felt a bit long and some lines that felt a little cheesy, but overall, I really enjoyed this book. I should have expected another cliffhanger after the first book, but I am still excited to see where the story goes!

Thank you Elena Lawson and The Author Agency for the gifted e-ARC copy! All opinions are my own.

Story Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Meter: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
✨ Why Choose
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Found Family