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Acquisition #3
Sovereign
The Acquisition has ruled my life, ruled my every waking moment since Sinclair Vinemont first showed up at my house offering an infernal bargain to save my father’s life. Now I know the stakes. The charade is at an end, and Sinclair has far more to lose than I ever did.
But this knowledge hasn’t strengthened me. Instead, each revelation breaks me down until nothing is left but my fight and my rage. As I struggle to survive, only one question remains. How far will I go to save those I love and burn the Acquisition to the ground?
Full disclosure: This book is a DARK romance with elements of BDSM, slavery, violence, and super-hot sex. It is the last of the Acquisition trilogy, no cliffhanger. If you're good with these caveats, enjoy!
But this knowledge hasn’t strengthened me. Instead, each revelation breaks me down until nothing is left but my fight and my rage. As I struggle to survive, only one question remains. How far will I go to save those I love and burn the Acquisition to the ground?
Full disclosure: This book is a DARK romance with elements of BDSM, slavery, violence, and super-hot sex. It is the last of the Acquisition trilogy, no cliffhanger. If you're good with these caveats, enjoy!
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2016
268 people are currently reading
1281 people want to read
About the author
Celia Aaron
62 books4,335 followersCelia Aaron is a recovering attorney and USA Today bestselling author. Upstart crow. Cat person. Thanks for reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 349 reviews
May 6, 2016
The third, and final, book in 'The Acquisition' series, 'Sovereign' brings all of the tension and suspense that we've come to expect from this erotic, dark series. From one page to the next, I held my breath, wondering what horrors awaited Stella. Yet, I couldn't tear myself away until I had finished it!
With the final two trials ahead of her, Stella has committed herself to training at the onset of this book. She's resigned herself to the reality of her situation, knowing that Teddy's fate is in her hands. Day after day, she pushes herself to her physical limits.
Meanwhile, Sinclair is noticeably absent for a large part of this book. When he does reappear, it is with another woman on his arm. It is clear that he's trying to hurt Stella and distance himself from her...and it works.
Despite the predictable pattern of Sinclair's actions and Stella's reactions, I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster. Between the betrayals of her lover and the terrors that were in store for Stella, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. When I was done, I felt like I'd been put through the ringer.
However, it was worth every minute of anxiety. I loved the ending. It was absolutely perfect and just what I needed to set my soul at ease after such a gut-wrenching story. Finally, Stella gets some vengeance. If you've read the other books, you must read this one!
With the final two trials ahead of her, Stella has committed herself to training at the onset of this book. She's resigned herself to the reality of her situation, knowing that Teddy's fate is in her hands. Day after day, she pushes herself to her physical limits.
Meanwhile, Sinclair is noticeably absent for a large part of this book. When he does reappear, it is with another woman on his arm. It is clear that he's trying to hurt Stella and distance himself from her...and it works.
Despite the predictable pattern of Sinclair's actions and Stella's reactions, I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster. Between the betrayals of her lover and the terrors that were in store for Stella, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. When I was done, I felt like I'd been put through the ringer.
However, it was worth every minute of anxiety. I loved the ending. It was absolutely perfect and just what I needed to set my soul at ease after such a gut-wrenching story. Finally, Stella gets some vengeance. If you've read the other books, you must read this one!
August 15, 2017
★★★★★! Sovereign, book 3 of 3. Sinclair & Stella learn about the final pieces in the puzzle with the biggest battle yet to come in a devious game called the Acquisition!
“You were the best choice and also the worst for my Acquisition.”
Books in Acquisition series should be read in order:
Book 0.5: Sinclair
Book 1: Counsellor
Book 2: Magnate
Book 3: Sovereign
In The Acquisition, book 1-2, artist Stella Rousseau’s surrendered her life to the eldest Vinemont brother for one year in order to save her father. Counsellor at law and businessman Sinclair Vinemont, Sin is an heir to a dark legacy, a challenge called The Acquisition that he must participate in with Stella as his plaything. Set amongst the glamorous, old-style Louisiana elite Stella found herself is caught up in a clandestine and sinister game.
Sovereign (book 3) opens up after book 2’s shocking ending. The intense attraction between Sinclair and Stella is shifting into more, but both the game, evil villains and their own insecurities stand in their way.
Stella has come a long way since that fateful day when she became Sinclair’s property. She has learned about the rules, discovered heart-shattering deceptions and the dire consequences for losing. She feels the heavy burden of making choices, sacrifices while overlooking the evil all around.
Ultimately this is not only a fight for survival but a battle between good and evil and a frantic race to outsmart the puppeteers of this centuries’ old devious game and its price of Sovereign, which means dominance but it also stands for independence. Winning is the only option the only way out…
Seven words to describe Sinclair Vinemont: Sinister, conflicted, private, elusive, possessive, depraved and ruthless.
Seven words to describe Stella Rousseau: Dutiful, naïve, caring, reflective, determined, strong and spirited.
Sovereign told from dual POVs offers a mixture of suspense, violence, mystery and erotica in what has been a depraved game for power and survival with ever-changing rules set to break its players while protecting its cause. After many twists and turns it ends on a high and I love that epilogue!
Sinister and complex plot! Swoon-worthy hero! Excellent story-telling!
“Her blood was honey on my tongue, and her pussy heaven on my cock.”
***
Hero rating: 5 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Sexual tension rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4.5 stars
Plot rating: 5 stars
Dialogue rating: 5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: 5 stars
**********************************************
Overall rating: 5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
Thanks Celia!
ARC provided to me by author Celia Aaron in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2017
4 Stars!!
'Sovereign' is the third and final installment in Celia Aaron’s dark series entitled 'Acquisition' and picks up right where the last book ended. This third installment is as thrilling and addictive as the previous ones. Mrs. Aaron delivered a great conclusion to this series filled with suspense, steam and action and from the beginning until the end it kept me at the edge of my seat. Liked its predecessors, this final book in the series is dark, all kind of twisted and even disturbing at times.
Stella has come a long way since she became Sinclair’s property. She accepted to save her father, but now that she knows that Sinclair has far more to lose than she ever did, she’s decided to survive, to burn the Acquisition to the ground, to help herself and at the same time to help Sinclair and his family. Stella has to survive two more trials before the name of the next Sovereign will be known. She’s training trying to prepare herself physically for everything Cal, the current Sovereign has in store for her.
While Stella tries to stay strong, not only physically, but also mentally, Sinclair has another strategy to try to find out more about what will happen in the upcoming trials, but his strategy and also behavior makes Stella question his feelings for her and also his loyalty.
'Sovereign' was without a doubt my favorite book in the series. Intense and fast-paced, this installment was crazy and twisted as f@ck. Celia Aaron is a great storyteller and like I mentioned above the entire time reading this installment I was at the edge of my seat. There were so many heart-pounding moments…oh my…I couldn’t read fast enough.
The cast of characters, the main and supporting ones were vividly portrayed. Both Stella and Sinclair were well developed, engaging and their dynamic one again was complex and fantastically done. Needless to say their connection was palpable and stronger than ever here, well for a good part of the story. Once again, the sex scenes between them were intense and smoking hot. I found Stella’s character to be very endearing. Her strength and determination were admirable and the fact that she was willing to sacrifice everything to save…everyone was heartwarming to say the least. She was genuinely a good woman, caring and loving and so considerate at times. Sinclair was such a complex character. There wasn’t a moment when I questioned his loyalty towards Stella even if his actions said otherwise. I guess, I trust him a little more than our heroine.
The plot was complex and well structured and like the other two installments in the series, this one is told in dual POV.
All in all, 'Sovereign' was a fantastic conclusion to Stella and Sinclair’s story – fast paced, suspenseful and full of twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the end.
'Sovereign' is the third and final installment in Celia Aaron’s dark series entitled 'Acquisition' and picks up right where the last book ended. This third installment is as thrilling and addictive as the previous ones. Mrs. Aaron delivered a great conclusion to this series filled with suspense, steam and action and from the beginning until the end it kept me at the edge of my seat. Liked its predecessors, this final book in the series is dark, all kind of twisted and even disturbing at times.
Stella has come a long way since she became Sinclair’s property. She accepted to save her father, but now that she knows that Sinclair has far more to lose than she ever did, she’s decided to survive, to burn the Acquisition to the ground, to help herself and at the same time to help Sinclair and his family. Stella has to survive two more trials before the name of the next Sovereign will be known. She’s training trying to prepare herself physically for everything Cal, the current Sovereign has in store for her.
While Stella tries to stay strong, not only physically, but also mentally, Sinclair has another strategy to try to find out more about what will happen in the upcoming trials, but his strategy and also behavior makes Stella question his feelings for her and also his loyalty.
'Sovereign' was without a doubt my favorite book in the series. Intense and fast-paced, this installment was crazy and twisted as f@ck. Celia Aaron is a great storyteller and like I mentioned above the entire time reading this installment I was at the edge of my seat. There were so many heart-pounding moments…oh my…I couldn’t read fast enough.
The cast of characters, the main and supporting ones were vividly portrayed. Both Stella and Sinclair were well developed, engaging and their dynamic one again was complex and fantastically done. Needless to say their connection was palpable and stronger than ever here, well for a good part of the story. Once again, the sex scenes between them were intense and smoking hot. I found Stella’s character to be very endearing. Her strength and determination were admirable and the fact that she was willing to sacrifice everything to save…everyone was heartwarming to say the least. She was genuinely a good woman, caring and loving and so considerate at times. Sinclair was such a complex character. There wasn’t a moment when I questioned his loyalty towards Stella even if his actions said otherwise. I guess, I trust him a little more than our heroine.
The plot was complex and well structured and like the other two installments in the series, this one is told in dual POV.
All in all, 'Sovereign' was a fantastic conclusion to Stella and Sinclair’s story – fast paced, suspenseful and full of twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the end.
April 24, 2018
4 Stars
I finished this series, finally! Such a great dark series! Enjoyed it a lot! As always well-written and as dark as I like! This one is about the two last trials and each one is more horrible than the other! Now Stella knows what will happen if she loses at the end. When I found out about the last trial I felt I can breathe finally and I was happy but Stella had another thing in her mind and it worried me a lot, I’m so glad after what she went through, she didn’t break or even felt broken! I liked her from the first book. About Sin, I didn’t like him first, I wanted to feel his love for Stella!!! In this book, he still was a jerk (mostly) and I can’t tell you if I like him or not because I don’t know about it myself but I LOVED its epilogue! It was like all the love that was missing was on that part! I wish Lucius could have had his own book, I want to know he has his own HEA! Hmmm, Maybe one day! Told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s the third and last installment in the "Acquisition" series and it should be read in order. I didn’t want to finish it, it always makes my heart ache when I know I won’t read about them anymore but each story has to end someday, right!? All in all, I enjoyed this series and hope you like it as well!
I finished this series, finally! Such a great dark series! Enjoyed it a lot! As always well-written and as dark as I like! This one is about the two last trials and each one is more horrible than the other! Now Stella knows what will happen if she loses at the end. When I found out about the last trial I felt I can breathe finally and I was happy but Stella had another thing in her mind and it worried me a lot, I’m so glad after what she went through, she didn’t break or even felt broken! I liked her from the first book. About Sin, I didn’t like him first, I wanted to feel his love for Stella!!! In this book, he still was a jerk (mostly) and I can’t tell you if I like him or not because I don’t know about it myself but I LOVED its epilogue! It was like all the love that was missing was on that part! I wish Lucius could have had his own book, I want to know he has his own HEA! Hmmm, Maybe one day! Told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s the third and last installment in the "Acquisition" series and it should be read in order. I didn’t want to finish it, it always makes my heart ache when I know I won’t read about them anymore but each story has to end someday, right!? All in all, I enjoyed this series and hope you like it as well!
June 7, 2017
I think this story crossed the line from dark, to shambolic, to plain sad. I didn't find a SINGLE OUNCE of it ROMANTIC as I often can. If you read my previous reviews, I explain what the Acquisition is. This whole story is implausible. Barbaric for a society of elites and it didn't hold up as a plot line for me. Sorry this is a mini essay, with many many swear words and heavy capitalisation — I was just so mad! 😡
My fantasy ending for this book hovered between three ideas:
1. Stella committed suicide from the pain of her reality and Sin followed wracked from guilt.
2. Sin desperately wanted Stella to love him but he ruined her. He begged on his knees but she leaves without a backward glance, saving Teddy and he's crippled from the pain never again touching another woman. (lol)
3. She wrecks havoc on his life and forces him to live through the trials as Sovereign.
4. Oh here's my bonus idea! She leaves him and he tortures himself for years from the guilt.
Morbid right? Well that's how much I HATE, DESPISE, DETEST, and LOATHE Sin. Every solution was to cripple him in pain.
The last person worthy of punishing Stella was Sinclair. The reason for my lack of enjoyment was Sin for being the biggest coward of a hero. HE SHOULD HAVE CHOSEN STELLA AND HE NEVER DID — it was always the Acquisition, it was always her making sacrifices like some blind twat. He always watched in the audience as she was beaten and broken apart in the trial, so it's hard to believe that he loves her.
This is Sin's position always and forever and it ruined him for me:
"In the end, I was still trapped, still lying here with the woman I’d kill to protect, but harm to save Teddy.”
Her pain and trials always made him: itch, regret, remorse, wish, feel acid in his stomach. I call BULLSHIT because it never changed anything. Even the worst anti hero's PICK THE GIRL and she means everything at some point.
Her pain and dreams haunt her, and his advice was:"Time is the only way to soften memories like that.” He had the AUDACITY to say shit like that. I actually felt violent feelings towards him.
And whilst she was so strong with everyone else, Stella was a right DOORMAT when it came to him. It was like stfu you silly cow: "Every stab of pain inflicted on me would be mirrored in his mind. I wished I could save him from it even more than myself." Doesn't this just make you want to vomit?🤢Her living through physical torment being mirrored in his "mind". LOOL this is a quote which should be buried in a graveyard. Doormat.
Sin should have been begging for Stella's mercy: "He’d put me through a house of horrors, and then left for a vacation with the daughter of its architect."
I don't care how many men touched Stella, or how she toed the line with Lucius, or Dylan, Sin should have put his loyalty at her feet after the sacrifice she was making for his family, but he never once gave her an ounce of trust. When he thinks she's betrayed him, he wants to hurt her. Homie idc what kind of betrayal you think she's committed, she's your guardian angel no matter any sh*t. He disappeared after she was beaten like cattle and then electrocuted and bashed with a baton against another Acquisition only to go away with another woman. It's all part of the "charade." I DON'T CARE. She needed him and he was never there for her. I don't know what this book was trying to present but if it was a woman bleeding time and time again for a man who gave no fucks, it achieved that. After demeaning her and not giving her any trust, he finds out he was wrong and goes to apologise. Stella is stroking his cheeks like everything is fine and dandy after a sub par apology and some fucking cheesy love declarations. She reassures HIM. He admits he never slept with Sophia, but at this point the list of transgressions against him was so long, he was completely irredeemable. Girl he treated you like a dog and watched your human body break apart.
Then he says: "I would do anything for you.” I nearly choked laughing.
Sin wants to save Teddy but it came at Stella's cost. Sin should have found the loophole. We find out the last trial is for the slave to beat the owner, and I was PSYCHED. Like finally! And when she took that final beating Sin's place in the last trial because she couldn't and he let her once again.. She didn't value herself, she never put herself first and in essence it caused her downfall. A scalpel went into her. The scarring was going to be horrid and inflamed and disgusting. She acts like some tattoos and creams will tone it down and doesn't see how strong she is without Sin.
“You don’t understand. I can’t hurt you again.”
“Shh.” I scooted so I sat upright in his lap and pressed my lips to his. “When this is over, I will still love you. Nothing will ever keep me from loving you.”
*
“I wanted to pull him close and tell him he wasn’t bad, that he didn’t suffer from the same evil that infected these people.”
*
“My heart—the one that had been betrayed, broken, and abused—suddenly beat with renewed purpose. I lived for him, for a life together outside the world of the Acquisition."
He was as cowardly as cowards go. And sheeply as there can be sheep. As pussy as pussy can be.
And after everything is fine and dandy, her tattoo artist says:
“Are you kidding? He couldn’t take his eyes off you. I thought he might take me out just for touching you. If that wasn’t love, then…”
Is this a joke? Boy you have no clue how many men touched her in his presence. Relax.
I'm going to be a Kardashian and say: THIS BOOK TOTALLY GAVE ME ANXIETY.
My fantasy ending for this book hovered between three ideas:
1. Stella committed suicide from the pain of her reality and Sin followed wracked from guilt.
2. Sin desperately wanted Stella to love him but he ruined her. He begged on his knees but she leaves without a backward glance, saving Teddy and he's crippled from the pain never again touching another woman. (lol)
3. She wrecks havoc on his life and forces him to live through the trials as Sovereign.
4. Oh here's my bonus idea! She leaves him and he tortures himself for years from the guilt.
Morbid right? Well that's how much I HATE, DESPISE, DETEST, and LOATHE Sin. Every solution was to cripple him in pain.
The last person worthy of punishing Stella was Sinclair. The reason for my lack of enjoyment was Sin for being the biggest coward of a hero. HE SHOULD HAVE CHOSEN STELLA AND HE NEVER DID — it was always the Acquisition, it was always her making sacrifices like some blind twat. He always watched in the audience as she was beaten and broken apart in the trial, so it's hard to believe that he loves her.
This is Sin's position always and forever and it ruined him for me:
"In the end, I was still trapped, still lying here with the woman I’d kill to protect, but harm to save Teddy.”
Her pain and trials always made him: itch, regret, remorse, wish, feel acid in his stomach. I call BULLSHIT because it never changed anything. Even the worst anti hero's PICK THE GIRL and she means everything at some point.
Her pain and dreams haunt her, and his advice was:"Time is the only way to soften memories like that.” He had the AUDACITY to say shit like that. I actually felt violent feelings towards him.
And whilst she was so strong with everyone else, Stella was a right DOORMAT when it came to him. It was like stfu you silly cow: "Every stab of pain inflicted on me would be mirrored in his mind. I wished I could save him from it even more than myself." Doesn't this just make you want to vomit?🤢Her living through physical torment being mirrored in his "mind". LOOL this is a quote which should be buried in a graveyard. Doormat.
Sin should have been begging for Stella's mercy: "He’d put me through a house of horrors, and then left for a vacation with the daughter of its architect."
I don't care how many men touched Stella, or how she toed the line with Lucius, or Dylan, Sin should have put his loyalty at her feet after the sacrifice she was making for his family, but he never once gave her an ounce of trust. When he thinks she's betrayed him, he wants to hurt her. Homie idc what kind of betrayal you think she's committed, she's your guardian angel no matter any sh*t. He disappeared after she was beaten like cattle and then electrocuted and bashed with a baton against another Acquisition only to go away with another woman. It's all part of the "charade." I DON'T CARE. She needed him and he was never there for her. I don't know what this book was trying to present but if it was a woman bleeding time and time again for a man who gave no fucks, it achieved that. After demeaning her and not giving her any trust, he finds out he was wrong and goes to apologise. Stella is stroking his cheeks like everything is fine and dandy after a sub par apology and some fucking cheesy love declarations. She reassures HIM. He admits he never slept with Sophia, but at this point the list of transgressions against him was so long, he was completely irredeemable. Girl he treated you like a dog and watched your human body break apart.
Then he says: "I would do anything for you.” I nearly choked laughing.
Sin wants to save Teddy but it came at Stella's cost. Sin should have found the loophole. We find out the last trial is for the slave to beat the owner, and I was PSYCHED. Like finally! And when she took that final beating Sin's place in the last trial because she couldn't and he let her once again.. She didn't value herself, she never put herself first and in essence it caused her downfall. A scalpel went into her. The scarring was going to be horrid and inflamed and disgusting. She acts like some tattoos and creams will tone it down and doesn't see how strong she is without Sin.
“You don’t understand. I can’t hurt you again.”
“Shh.” I scooted so I sat upright in his lap and pressed my lips to his. “When this is over, I will still love you. Nothing will ever keep me from loving you.”
*
“I wanted to pull him close and tell him he wasn’t bad, that he didn’t suffer from the same evil that infected these people.”
*
“My heart—the one that had been betrayed, broken, and abused—suddenly beat with renewed purpose. I lived for him, for a life together outside the world of the Acquisition."
He was as cowardly as cowards go. And sheeply as there can be sheep. As pussy as pussy can be.
And after everything is fine and dandy, her tattoo artist says:
“Are you kidding? He couldn’t take his eyes off you. I thought he might take me out just for touching you. If that wasn’t love, then…”
Is this a joke? Boy you have no clue how many men touched her in his presence. Relax.
I'm going to be a Kardashian and say: THIS BOOK TOTALLY GAVE ME ANXIETY.
May 5, 2016
✶LIVE Amazon US * Amazon US
The final trials play out. The sovereign is decided..... How will it all end and who will survive? That was my overriding thought going into the third and final installment of the Acquisition series.
The world of the Acquisition story is crazy, ridiculous and violent. My thoughts and feelings have gone back and forth about this story as Celia Aaron continues to push the boundaries and the realms of reality with her outrageous, twisted and downright depraved tale. There are elements that I questioned with friends – How? why? Etc.... I found it difficult to accept some elements of this story. There is a romance at the center of the acquisition but equally it’s tied up in a macabre, cult like society that would not be tolerated in a ‘normal’ law abiding city. The premise is absolutely fascinating and could be compared to a kind of Hunger Games for adults, minus the dystopian theme and with boundaries that are stretched even further. In places the action is so horrific that I felt like I was reading a horror novel, a genre that I don’t particularly relish as I feel it often push the realms of reality maybe a little too far for my personal tastes.
This story is not for the faint of heart and despite my distaste for the horror and fantastical macabre on display I found that I couldn’t stop reading, I needed to know how retribution would be achieved, how all the bad crazy people would pay for their heinous acts and how this author would tie up all the crazy into a sensible plot and make the story plausible to the end and I have to say, I was not disappointed. Celia Aaron played out her story culminating in a gripping climax that was as thrilling, dark and thoughtfully constructed as the main body of the story arc.
Sovereign is fast paced with never a dull moment. The entire series has provided me with a dark, gritty, fantastic read and, for those who relish twisted worlds tied into their romance reading, this story is not to be missed.
✶✶✶✶✶✶
Sovereign is the third book in the Acquisitions Series. The books need to be read in order:
My review thoughts for-->
Book #1 Counsellor
Book #2 Magnate
Full disclosure from the author: This book is a DARK romance with elements of BDSM, slavery, violence, and super-hot sex. It is the last of the Acquisition trilogy, no cliff-hanger. If you're good with these caveats, enjoy!
Advance copy received for my honest review thoughts
★ Graphics created by myself with stock image I purchased from deposit photos ★
The final trials play out. The sovereign is decided..... How will it all end and who will survive? That was my overriding thought going into the third and final installment of the Acquisition series.
The world of the Acquisition story is crazy, ridiculous and violent. My thoughts and feelings have gone back and forth about this story as Celia Aaron continues to push the boundaries and the realms of reality with her outrageous, twisted and downright depraved tale. There are elements that I questioned with friends – How? why? Etc.... I found it difficult to accept some elements of this story. There is a romance at the center of the acquisition but equally it’s tied up in a macabre, cult like society that would not be tolerated in a ‘normal’ law abiding city. The premise is absolutely fascinating and could be compared to a kind of Hunger Games for adults, minus the dystopian theme and with boundaries that are stretched even further. In places the action is so horrific that I felt like I was reading a horror novel, a genre that I don’t particularly relish as I feel it often push the realms of reality maybe a little too far for my personal tastes.
This story is not for the faint of heart and despite my distaste for the horror and fantastical macabre on display I found that I couldn’t stop reading, I needed to know how retribution would be achieved, how all the bad crazy people would pay for their heinous acts and how this author would tie up all the crazy into a sensible plot and make the story plausible to the end and I have to say, I was not disappointed. Celia Aaron played out her story culminating in a gripping climax that was as thrilling, dark and thoughtfully constructed as the main body of the story arc.
Sovereign is fast paced with never a dull moment. The entire series has provided me with a dark, gritty, fantastic read and, for those who relish twisted worlds tied into their romance reading, this story is not to be missed.
✶✶✶✶✶✶
Sovereign is the third book in the Acquisitions Series. The books need to be read in order:
My review thoughts for-->
Book #1 Counsellor
Book #2 Magnate
Full disclosure from the author: This book is a DARK romance with elements of BDSM, slavery, violence, and super-hot sex. It is the last of the Acquisition trilogy, no cliff-hanger. If you're good with these caveats, enjoy!
Advance copy received for my honest review thoughts
★ Graphics created by myself with stock image I purchased from deposit photos ★
January 31, 2017
The ending is epic!
Well, before I can talk more about this series, we need to establish some ground rules:
a) You need to understand that this is not reality! (At least I hope it is not…)
b) You have to accept that all situations are extreme and they do not really approach normality.
c) You need to leave behind all your doubts and your questions about the sanity of the main characters.
QUESTIONS LIKE:
Why is she behaving like this? Is this how he is supposed to talk? Why did he/she tolerate this exactly? I wouldn’t do that, would I? How can they do this to these people? Where is the police? Where is Batman to save them?
CANNOT BE APPLIED IN THIS SERIES.
d) Don’t think of this as a BDSM series. I am sure you will notice that Sinclair likes torturing Stella. He loves hurting her and she loves being hurt by him. The third book of the series is the ultimate proof. But this is not a lovers’ game with safe words and a bit of spanking. This is just twisted. No rules.
“But she likes it when I hurt her.”
On the bright side, there are worse characters than him in the book. Cal Oakman for example is an excellent sadist. Unfortunately for him, Stella has chosen Sinclair.
e) You will not hear many love words by Sinclair. He will mainly humiliate and break apart Stella.
“Get the fuck out of here. You can eat with the dogs where you belong.”
“What is wrong is that I ever thought you were more than the whore daughter of a petty criminal.”
Surely it is part of the game, but deep down he definitely enjoys it and she corresponds accordingly. As a result there is not much groveling. But when the groveling comes, I assure you that you will enjoy it.
f) You need to realize that this is not a Dark Romance. This book is just about dark twisted games and a matter of revenge on book 3. A revenge that is delivered beautifully. Finally there is some fire and some rightful killings!
Okay, now that you know what to expect:
Stella is, at last, part of the inner circle in the third book. She learns all the secrets and it is now her own decision to stay and fight to the end. The Vinemont family has never before been so close together united.
There will be two more trials for her, until the forthcoming victory. The trials will be about family and about the people she cares for. They will be bloody and painful and once more they will test her limits.
The epilogue is dreamy and if I dare to say maybe it belongs to a different book/series.
Still it will make you very happy!
Well, before I can talk more about this series, we need to establish some ground rules:
a) You need to understand that this is not reality! (At least I hope it is not…)
b) You have to accept that all situations are extreme and they do not really approach normality.
c) You need to leave behind all your doubts and your questions about the sanity of the main characters.
QUESTIONS LIKE:
Why is she behaving like this? Is this how he is supposed to talk? Why did he/she tolerate this exactly? I wouldn’t do that, would I? How can they do this to these people? Where is the police? Where is Batman to save them?
CANNOT BE APPLIED IN THIS SERIES.
d) Don’t think of this as a BDSM series. I am sure you will notice that Sinclair likes torturing Stella. He loves hurting her and she loves being hurt by him. The third book of the series is the ultimate proof. But this is not a lovers’ game with safe words and a bit of spanking. This is just twisted. No rules.
“But she likes it when I hurt her.”
On the bright side, there are worse characters than him in the book. Cal Oakman for example is an excellent sadist. Unfortunately for him, Stella has chosen Sinclair.
e) You will not hear many love words by Sinclair. He will mainly humiliate and break apart Stella.
“Get the fuck out of here. You can eat with the dogs where you belong.”
“What is wrong is that I ever thought you were more than the whore daughter of a petty criminal.”
Surely it is part of the game, but deep down he definitely enjoys it and she corresponds accordingly. As a result there is not much groveling. But when the groveling comes, I assure you that you will enjoy it.
f) You need to realize that this is not a Dark Romance. This book is just about dark twisted games and a matter of revenge on book 3. A revenge that is delivered beautifully. Finally there is some fire and some rightful killings!
Okay, now that you know what to expect:
Stella is, at last, part of the inner circle in the third book. She learns all the secrets and it is now her own decision to stay and fight to the end. The Vinemont family has never before been so close together united.
There will be two more trials for her, until the forthcoming victory. The trials will be about family and about the people she cares for. They will be bloody and painful and once more they will test her limits.
The epilogue is dreamy and if I dare to say maybe it belongs to a different book/series.
Still it will make you very happy!
January 29, 2017
You know those dark erotic novels that sucks you right in from the get go and doesn't turn you loose until you hit the climatic finish? Ooooh boy.. oooh boy are you in for a treat because Sovereign kick ass and takes name. The conclusion...yeah baby I'm at the finish line in this five star read!
Knowing all the facts about Sinclair, he's not as much of a douche bag as I first pegged him for. Yes he's still an asshole, thank goodness that's one trait he doesn't lose but he's not the scum sucking douche bag!
Stella, ahhhh be still my beating heart! This woman rocks and will mess your shit up! Hell has no furry like a woman scorned. But I don't want to paint the whole series just about the leading characters, considering they had a lot of help. You'll have to read the series to know who I'm talking about. Happy reading, enjoy!!!!
August 22, 2016
4.5 "KILL. THEM. KILL. THEM." stars!!
This book was the culmination of the story of Sinclair and his Stella. It had EVERYTHING I was hoping for from this series. Love, sex, angst, family, revelations, torture/abuse, and ultimately vengeance.
Stella was kickass in this one. I'm pleased that the author wrote this story in such a way that my opinion of the FMC has done a 180. She was strong, fierce, determined and motivated. And I loved her huge heart and how willing she was to sacrifice herself and also to forgive Sin for all that he's done and still love him in spite of it all.
"Every thought of anger and hatred burned away as he consumed me as surely as fire does black powder."
Sin was just as amazing as ever. In this volume, his humanity was showing. His possessiveness and love for Stella were at the forefront of his POV. I got to witness what he was willing to do and sacrifice for her and his family. His character has evolved in so many ways since he was first introduced. Though still cold and calculating, I got to see his warmth, his caring, his compassion, his passion, and it made him all the more endearing to me.
I loved the story. I adored the characters. And I wish there was more!
XO
This book was the culmination of the story of Sinclair and his Stella. It had EVERYTHING I was hoping for from this series. Love, sex, angst, family, revelations, torture/abuse, and ultimately vengeance.
Stella was kickass in this one. I'm pleased that the author wrote this story in such a way that my opinion of the FMC has done a 180. She was strong, fierce, determined and motivated. And I loved her huge heart and how willing she was to sacrifice herself and also to forgive Sin for all that he's done and still love him in spite of it all.
"Every thought of anger and hatred burned away as he consumed me as surely as fire does black powder."
Sin was just as amazing as ever. In this volume, his humanity was showing. His possessiveness and love for Stella were at the forefront of his POV. I got to witness what he was willing to do and sacrifice for her and his family. His character has evolved in so many ways since he was first introduced. Though still cold and calculating, I got to see his warmth, his caring, his compassion, his passion, and it made him all the more endearing to me.
I loved the story. I adored the characters. And I wish there was more!
XO
April 29, 2016
Two trials remain. Each with a theme that appears to be innocuous on the surface, but with the existing Sovereign at the helm, nothing short of evil is expected to occur. With resolve, Stella Rousseau trains and tries to prepare physically and emotionally for the unknown while knowing all too well what’s at stake if she loses. While Stella is doing her part as a dutiful Acquisition, Sinclair Vinemont is the ever enigmatic and charming Acquirer who will do whatever it takes to be the next Sovereign.
“It didn’t matter. I had to see it, to witness every last disgusting act. It was the only way to keep my fire burning, the same fire that would destroy these animals.”
As Sin is scheming and positioning to win the trials, Stella begins to question his loyalty and love. Sin has always been insular but their looming fate is pushing Sin back into his own darkness and pain, a place where he is comfortable but he doesn't want Stella’s light to be extinguished by his shadows and his family’s ghastly obligation. However, Sin can’t help but to consume her in every ravenous way possible and Stella’s need to absorb all of Sin is sinfully delicious. While Sin and Stella try to ensure a win, they also have a larger vision that would propel Sin’s reign into making history.
“This is a dark path. One I’m well-acquainted with.” He pushed me against the tiles and met my eyes. “Are you sure it’s what you want?”
“Don’t warn me. Fuck me.”
From the first page, the tone is ominous. Knowing how bonded Stella has become with the Vinemont family just adds to the foreboding. The game was never meant for this family and it underscores the need to vanquish this malevolent group whose deviant needs exceed the bounds of human decency. At the trials, Stella’s fortitude withstands the criterion for game play and it effectively solidifies what she and Sin actually share for each other.
“I wanted to be the one who was finally made to pay for my sins. But instead of retribution, she’d granted me love.”
Let me just say that I loved this series and the culmination is absolutely heart-pounding! In starting Sovereign, you know how the foundation has been set and know who is committed to winning but you just don’t know how or if it will happen. The evil surrounding the reigning Sovereign is suffocating. The play-by-by action sequences during the trials are incredibly and intricately crafted in that I couldn’t read fast enough and felt every single moment and consequence. I liked how Celia Aaron pushed the gruesomeness as much as possible while still holding true to the characters. As for the love story between Sin and Stella, they balanced each other’s intensity perfectly.
The Acquisition series is full of masterful storytelling with a richly developed plot and multi-dimensional characters. Each of the Vinemont brothers added to the story and without all three, a void would have existed. Stella was such a strong heroine and was never afraid to show her vulnerabilities. There were a few characters that I absolutely loved to loathe, as they were pure evil incarnate.
This series offers an incredible account of love, family, hate, greed, evil, lust, horror, revenge and redemption. I highly recommend!
*An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2016
Sovereign is LIVE!!! OneClick----> http://amzn.to/1rkCP5z
5 Dark and Wonderful Stars
This book was a much awaited read for me. It is the 3rd and final book of the Acquisition Series. I will warn you that at times this book was dark and twisted and disturbing. It is definitely not for the faint of heart.
What will you do for Love? Can you harm, torture, or kill? Can you put someone else first? Can love survive where evil looms? The Trials, Sin, The Rules.........Stella must dig deep within herself in the name of love. Stella and her convictions to be the Acquisition that wins is fierce and loyal. Failure is not an option, the loss would be castastrohic. But in order to win, Sin must play by the rules and treat Stella like an Acquisition when in fact she is so much more than just an Acquisition. The dynamics of Stella and Sin is complex, challenging and smoldering. No matter the odds, their determination of winning the trials solidifies their intense connection.
I want to say that Sin's brothers, Lucius and Teddy, are important players in this series. While Teddy has always been a constant source of joy, the more I got to know Lucius, he became someone I grew to love. His protection of Stella was endearing in spite of his playful yearning affection for her.
This book has the two remaining trials. They are gruesome and mentally exhausting. I read them and they disturbed me. Cal and Sophia are ruthless and disgusting individuals. The people attending the trials are sick as well as they feed into the depravity of each trial. The imagination of the author takes on a dark tone that truly is quite diabolical during the trials and after the trials.
The ending was also on the OMG side as well. But then I got the epilogue, it was Exactly what I needed, so I must thank the author for putting my sanity back together. While this book had some CRAZY elements, the story kept my attention and the entire plot was fascinating as well as dark and disturbing, a completely win-win for me!!
Note- This book is the last in a trilogy. Counsellor and then Magnate need to be read before Sovereign. I promise you that this series is amazing, dark, disturbing at times, soldering hot and a wickedly wild ride.
Advanced copy received in exchange for an honest review
5 Dark and Wonderful Stars
This book was a much awaited read for me. It is the 3rd and final book of the Acquisition Series. I will warn you that at times this book was dark and twisted and disturbing. It is definitely not for the faint of heart.
What will you do for Love? Can you harm, torture, or kill? Can you put someone else first? Can love survive where evil looms? The Trials, Sin, The Rules.........Stella must dig deep within herself in the name of love. Stella and her convictions to be the Acquisition that wins is fierce and loyal. Failure is not an option, the loss would be castastrohic. But in order to win, Sin must play by the rules and treat Stella like an Acquisition when in fact she is so much more than just an Acquisition. The dynamics of Stella and Sin is complex, challenging and smoldering. No matter the odds, their determination of winning the trials solidifies their intense connection.
I want to say that Sin's brothers, Lucius and Teddy, are important players in this series. While Teddy has always been a constant source of joy, the more I got to know Lucius, he became someone I grew to love. His protection of Stella was endearing in spite of his playful yearning affection for her.
This book has the two remaining trials. They are gruesome and mentally exhausting. I read them and they disturbed me. Cal and Sophia are ruthless and disgusting individuals. The people attending the trials are sick as well as they feed into the depravity of each trial. The imagination of the author takes on a dark tone that truly is quite diabolical during the trials and after the trials.
The ending was also on the OMG side as well. But then I got the epilogue, it was Exactly what I needed, so I must thank the author for putting my sanity back together. While this book had some CRAZY elements, the story kept my attention and the entire plot was fascinating as well as dark and disturbing, a completely win-win for me!!
Note- This book is the last in a trilogy. Counsellor and then Magnate need to be read before Sovereign. I promise you that this series is amazing, dark, disturbing at times, soldering hot and a wickedly wild ride.
Advanced copy received in exchange for an honest review
May 5, 2016
Dear Ms Aaron,
You scare me a little because I think you’re slightly fucked in the head. How else could you have come up with a series such as this?
I hated this book.
OK, I didn’t hate this book as much as I was filled with hate by it. Unadulterated, pure, perfect hate. I nursed my hatred until my righteous indignation burned with the fire of a thousand suns. I raged with it, I cried with it, I laughed with it. I wanted to sew my hate into a beautiful dress and dance barefoot on the graves of the people in this book.
You created such a brilliantly fucked up plot, with such brilliantly fucked up characters that my reaction to it all was visceral. The fear was real. The suspense was real. The love was real. The hate, the beautifully perfect hate, was real. Amongst all the darkness and fucked-up-ness that was Sovereign, you inserted moments of such goodness and purity that it convinced me of everyone’s motivations.
You took all of my emotions and played them like puppets. You stretched me further than I thought I could go. You took me to the end of my tether and then pushed me over the edge. At the very bottom, at the end of this series – you gave me a perfect conclusion that was. So. Fucking. Satisfying. With this book you proved one thing to me: with the right motivation and the right set of circumstance we are all capable of being slightly fucked in the head if it means preserving what is good.
Books are meant to make us feel. They are meant to make is believe the unbelievable. They are meant to make us think. They are meant to make us lose ourselves. Because you succeeded in doing all of this, you are a genius. And in case it isn’t clear – I LOVE THIS BOOK.
So let me say this:
There is a fine line between genius and crazy, and there is a fine line between hate and love. And you, Ms Aaron, have your feet planted firmly on either side of this line in perfect balance. Bravo!!!
(ARC provided in exchange for an honest review)
You scare me a little because I think you’re slightly fucked in the head. How else could you have come up with a series such as this?
I hated this book.
OK, I didn’t hate this book as much as I was filled with hate by it. Unadulterated, pure, perfect hate. I nursed my hatred until my righteous indignation burned with the fire of a thousand suns. I raged with it, I cried with it, I laughed with it. I wanted to sew my hate into a beautiful dress and dance barefoot on the graves of the people in this book.
You created such a brilliantly fucked up plot, with such brilliantly fucked up characters that my reaction to it all was visceral. The fear was real. The suspense was real. The love was real. The hate, the beautifully perfect hate, was real. Amongst all the darkness and fucked-up-ness that was Sovereign, you inserted moments of such goodness and purity that it convinced me of everyone’s motivations.
You took all of my emotions and played them like puppets. You stretched me further than I thought I could go. You took me to the end of my tether and then pushed me over the edge. At the very bottom, at the end of this series – you gave me a perfect conclusion that was. So. Fucking. Satisfying. With this book you proved one thing to me: with the right motivation and the right set of circumstance we are all capable of being slightly fucked in the head if it means preserving what is good.
Books are meant to make us feel. They are meant to make is believe the unbelievable. They are meant to make us think. They are meant to make us lose ourselves. Because you succeeded in doing all of this, you are a genius. And in case it isn’t clear – I LOVE THIS BOOK.
So let me say this:
There is a fine line between genius and crazy, and there is a fine line between hate and love. And you, Ms Aaron, have your feet planted firmly on either side of this line in perfect balance. Bravo!!!
(ARC provided in exchange for an honest review)
September 6, 2016
4.75 stars!
This is the last book of the Acquisition series and Ms. Aaron didn't disappoint at all! The story goes on from where it was stopped and although it has been few months since I've read the previous book in the series, I had no problems to catch up. Ms. Aaron gives enough information to go into the world of the Acquisition without any repetitions!
The writing is still fantastic! I admit I am a big fan of Ms. Aaron! The story is said mainly from Stella's POV with few chapters from Sin's POV. The plot is moving fast and there are enough twists and surprises to keep you on edge! I mean I couldn't put down this book and I was almost ready to start eating my nails! The tension, the mystery, the twisted minds in this story kept me awake!
Stella has changed enormously since the first book of the series! She knows now all the rules of the Acquisition and she knows the risks for herself and the ones she cares about! I really admire her strength all through the trials! Amazing woman!
Sin has changed also since the beginning of this journey! He has feelings for starters and it's beautiful to watch him accepting them! I really like the craziness of this guy but I kind of missed him in this book as he wasn't so present as in the previous ones!
There are no enough words to describe how intense and strong is the connection of Stella and Sin! Ms. Aaron succeeded to show us so many emotions in this book that my words are just not enough!
The end of the book was the death of me! Amazing end full of suspense and twists! I honestly couldn't believe what I was reading! The epilogue was ok. I would have liked to have a bit more information regarding the events after the end of the book took place but I think I am just a bit greedy! I will miss Stella and Sin but I won't miss Ms. Aaron's writing as I cannot wait to start reading her next book!
I definitely recommend this series to everyone who loves a twisted, bit dark erotica book!
This is the last book of the Acquisition series and Ms. Aaron didn't disappoint at all! The story goes on from where it was stopped and although it has been few months since I've read the previous book in the series, I had no problems to catch up. Ms. Aaron gives enough information to go into the world of the Acquisition without any repetitions!
The writing is still fantastic! I admit I am a big fan of Ms. Aaron! The story is said mainly from Stella's POV with few chapters from Sin's POV. The plot is moving fast and there are enough twists and surprises to keep you on edge! I mean I couldn't put down this book and I was almost ready to start eating my nails! The tension, the mystery, the twisted minds in this story kept me awake!
Stella has changed enormously since the first book of the series! She knows now all the rules of the Acquisition and she knows the risks for herself and the ones she cares about! I really admire her strength all through the trials! Amazing woman!
Sin has changed also since the beginning of this journey! He has feelings for starters and it's beautiful to watch him accepting them! I really like the craziness of this guy but I kind of missed him in this book as he wasn't so present as in the previous ones!
There are no enough words to describe how intense and strong is the connection of Stella and Sin! Ms. Aaron succeeded to show us so many emotions in this book that my words are just not enough!
The end of the book was the death of me! Amazing end full of suspense and twists! I honestly couldn't believe what I was reading! The epilogue was ok. I would have liked to have a bit more information regarding the events after the end of the book took place but I think I am just a bit greedy! I will miss Stella and Sin but I won't miss Ms. Aaron's writing as I cannot wait to start reading her next book!
I definitely recommend this series to everyone who loves a twisted, bit dark erotica book!
February 24, 2017
Well, holy shit...
**** 4 Very Fucked Up Seductive Lip Bites ****
I don't really like reviewing serials like this per book, so I'm doing this ONE little review and that's all folks.
This is a series of 3.5 books (Sinclair is where to begin). These books all end in cliffhangers (with the exception of the last book, obvs... duh) and they must be read as one long story. That being said... string them all together, and we're talking some serious reading time.
Some might ask, "That's one long ass story, Angie! Will I be engaged the whole time? Or, will I end up being bored with the story?"
Well, Some (Some... that's your name for right now if you asked this question mentally, or hell, out loud... not judging, I talk to myself out loud on the regular), I can tell you I was not once bored with this story. Holy shit... not once! I read this series straight through with zero... Z-E-R-O time between books. My house be damned, my poor family fending for themselves because
"THIS LADY CANNOT BE BOTHERED! CAN'T YOU SEE THAT STELLA, SIN, AND THE REST OF THE FICTIONAL CHARACTERS IN THIS FICTIONAL FUCKED UP WORLD ARE DEALING WITH SOME SERIOUS SHIT GOING DOWN RIGHT NOW! MORE SERIOUS THAN YOUR NEED FOR FOOD AND CLEAN CLOTHES! DAMN, PRIORITIES PEOPLE... PRIORITIES!"
Okay... it wasn't like that, but it was a few days of headaches from my eyes being glued to a Kindle and not much else.
Now... this story is dark, depraved, super edgy, screwed the freak up and will mostly not work for the masses. So many triggers... so many! If you worry at all about triggers in a book, I can PROMISE you, this book isn't for you. Fully read the disclaimer in the book blurb and understand what you'll be getting into. It's super dark. Like, "Oh shit, I'm stuck in this underground mine by my lonesome and my only flashlight just went out" kind of dark. If you have read and liked Pepper Winters Indebted series, this series might just be for you.
**** 4 Very Fucked Up Seductive Lip Bites ****
I don't really like reviewing serials like this per book, so I'm doing this ONE little review and that's all folks.
This is a series of 3.5 books (Sinclair is where to begin). These books all end in cliffhangers (with the exception of the last book, obvs... duh) and they must be read as one long story. That being said... string them all together, and we're talking some serious reading time.
Some might ask, "That's one long ass story, Angie! Will I be engaged the whole time? Or, will I end up being bored with the story?"
Well, Some (Some... that's your name for right now if you asked this question mentally, or hell, out loud... not judging, I talk to myself out loud on the regular), I can tell you I was not once bored with this story. Holy shit... not once! I read this series straight through with zero... Z-E-R-O time between books. My house be damned, my poor family fending for themselves because
"THIS LADY CANNOT BE BOTHERED! CAN'T YOU SEE THAT STELLA, SIN, AND THE REST OF THE FICTIONAL CHARACTERS IN THIS FICTIONAL FUCKED UP WORLD ARE DEALING WITH SOME SERIOUS SHIT GOING DOWN RIGHT NOW! MORE SERIOUS THAN YOUR NEED FOR FOOD AND CLEAN CLOTHES! DAMN, PRIORITIES PEOPLE... PRIORITIES!"
Okay... it wasn't like that, but it was a few days of headaches from my eyes being glued to a Kindle and not much else.
Now... this story is dark, depraved, super edgy, screwed the freak up and will mostly not work for the masses. So many triggers... so many! If you worry at all about triggers in a book, I can PROMISE you, this book isn't for you. Fully read the disclaimer in the book blurb and understand what you'll be getting into. It's super dark. Like, "Oh shit, I'm stuck in this underground mine by my lonesome and my only flashlight just went out" kind of dark. If you have read and liked Pepper Winters Indebted series, this series might just be for you.
May 14, 2018
2.5 Stars***
WARNING: LOTS OF SPOILERS AHEAD
not gonna lie, i have mixed feelings about this book. 80% was a straight 1 star but the ending lifted it to a 2 star rating. i love dark books, and i don't mind a dose of some BDSM and an evil alpha, but this just took it to a level that even my sick mind had to pull out a STOP sign...
the book
this is the final installment of the Acquisition Trilogy. it starts off with Stella going to her 3rd trial, where she is literally beaten to a pulp and an inch of her life. i'm talking broken ribs and broken nose and all the jazz that comes with a thorough ass-whooping. the H graciously goes on holiday with his make-shift "girlfriend" for all use and purposes for 2 bloody months afterwards. fast forward, the last trial and then there's a HEA. i never read books that don't have a HEA but this was an exception i was willing to make as long as the H suffered in some form...
i honestly had a major issue with this book. the heroine was too selfless.. does she have no pride, no self-worth, no self-love??? she was always giving and giving and giving. and as for the H, Sinclair was the epitome of assholes, this dude takes the crown. Stella is fully committed to the acquisition rituals/trials because she knows whats at stake, Sincalair's youngest brother. she is willing to suffer physically to save his life and also because she loves Sinclair. this elite group of people fondle her in front of him, beat her and treat her like shit. as for Sinclair, he watches throughout, and rewards her by going off on a holiday in the Maldives/Paris or wherever the F he decided to go to with Sophia (the make-shift girlfriend) for 2 bloody months, leaving her to lick her wounds alone. she needed him the most at that point, and he wasn't there. mind you this is the third book so they have both claimed each other and told one another that they love each other.
when he returns he tells her to move into the horses barn because she is too low ..? these are direct quotes:
"...you aren't fit to speak her name, much less stand in her presence (he is talking about Sophia). in fact, get the fuck out of here. you can eat with the dogs where you belong.."
"..what is wrong is that i ever thought you were anything more than the whore daughter of a petty criminal..."
i don't give a hoot what he suspected or his reasons for treating her like this, the book was too advanced, their relationship too developed for him to behave in this manner. this was simple unacceptable to me.
and guess, what, he says "i'm sorry" and its all suddenly alright.
this heroine is a fickle bitch. she lets the hero walk all over him. outside of the open fondling by other random men in his presence, she almost gets raped several times. maybe the point in their minds is that physical pain and wounds, broken bones and broken skin heal...but does it really? does it heal internally?
then comes the final trial and the acquisitions get to physically harm the acquirers and i'm thinking, ok, this is the time to even it out. he claims to love her so much so let him take some of that pain she's been going through for a change. but ooooooh noooooo, this fickle bitch says she can't harm him. and guess what, she takes another bone-breaking whooping for him.. yes, she is beaten to a pulp in front of a live audience while he watches on and is getting sucked on by two red-heads(i think he was getting sucked on or maybe my own anger clouded what was actually happening at that juncture).
at this point i'm ready to fucken DNF this book, but i already invested time and energy reading the first 2 books, and i'm like at 73% so might as well soldier on...
the ending was a soother to me, although still, i really wanted the Hero to experience some pain. he always claimed to love her and told her he would do anything for her (yeh, anything except protect her from the physical pain and torture which he would bring on her with his other elite "friends"). she was just weak and called it love. strong in taking the torture, sure, but weak in her conviction that Sinclair loved her back and it was all okay because it was a means to an end. maybe it was, but Sinclair could have eased the pain by being there and not spending so much time with Sophia, especially after that 3rd trial.
WARNING: LOTS OF SPOILERS AHEAD
not gonna lie, i have mixed feelings about this book. 80% was a straight 1 star but the ending lifted it to a 2 star rating. i love dark books, and i don't mind a dose of some BDSM and an evil alpha, but this just took it to a level that even my sick mind had to pull out a STOP sign...
the book
this is the final installment of the Acquisition Trilogy. it starts off with Stella going to her 3rd trial, where she is literally beaten to a pulp and an inch of her life. i'm talking broken ribs and broken nose and all the jazz that comes with a thorough ass-whooping. the H graciously goes on holiday with his make-shift "girlfriend" for all use and purposes for 2 bloody months afterwards. fast forward, the last trial and then there's a HEA. i never read books that don't have a HEA but this was an exception i was willing to make as long as the H suffered in some form...
i honestly had a major issue with this book. the heroine was too selfless.. does she have no pride, no self-worth, no self-love??? she was always giving and giving and giving. and as for the H, Sinclair was the epitome of assholes, this dude takes the crown. Stella is fully committed to the acquisition rituals/trials because she knows whats at stake, Sincalair's youngest brother. she is willing to suffer physically to save his life and also because she loves Sinclair. this elite group of people fondle her in front of him, beat her and treat her like shit. as for Sinclair, he watches throughout, and rewards her by going off on a holiday in the Maldives/Paris or wherever the F he decided to go to with Sophia (the make-shift girlfriend) for 2 bloody months, leaving her to lick her wounds alone. she needed him the most at that point, and he wasn't there. mind you this is the third book so they have both claimed each other and told one another that they love each other.
when he returns he tells her to move into the horses barn because she is too low ..? these are direct quotes:
"...you aren't fit to speak her name, much less stand in her presence (he is talking about Sophia). in fact, get the fuck out of here. you can eat with the dogs where you belong.."
"..what is wrong is that i ever thought you were anything more than the whore daughter of a petty criminal..."
i don't give a hoot what he suspected or his reasons for treating her like this, the book was too advanced, their relationship too developed for him to behave in this manner. this was simple unacceptable to me.
and guess, what, he says "i'm sorry" and its all suddenly alright.
this heroine is a fickle bitch. she lets the hero walk all over him. outside of the open fondling by other random men in his presence, she almost gets raped several times. maybe the point in their minds is that physical pain and wounds, broken bones and broken skin heal...but does it really? does it heal internally?
then comes the final trial and the acquisitions get to physically harm the acquirers and i'm thinking, ok, this is the time to even it out. he claims to love her so much so let him take some of that pain she's been going through for a change. but ooooooh noooooo, this fickle bitch says she can't harm him. and guess what, she takes another bone-breaking whooping for him.. yes, she is beaten to a pulp in front of a live audience while he watches on and is getting sucked on by two red-heads(i think he was getting sucked on or maybe my own anger clouded what was actually happening at that juncture).
at this point i'm ready to fucken DNF this book, but i already invested time and energy reading the first 2 books, and i'm like at 73% so might as well soldier on...
the ending was a soother to me, although still, i really wanted the Hero to experience some pain. he always claimed to love her and told her he would do anything for her (yeh, anything except protect her from the physical pain and torture which he would bring on her with his other elite "friends"). she was just weak and called it love. strong in taking the torture, sure, but weak in her conviction that Sinclair loved her back and it was all okay because it was a means to an end. maybe it was, but Sinclair could have eased the pain by being there and not spending so much time with Sophia, especially after that 3rd trial.
April 28, 2016
After knowing what’s at stake if she will lose the upcoming last trial event. Stella is more than ever, determined to help Sin become the Sovereign. She went into full training and won’t stop until she’s really physically exhausted. Not helping is the fact that Sin left her after the last trial and went out to be with someone [a character I don’t like from the very beginning]. Now Stella is wondering whether the love she saw and felt from Sin is real or not. But no matter how hurt she felt about Sin’s attitude towards her, she’s going to win this last trial if it’s the last thing she’ll do. To save someone she loves.
“I would do everything in my power to protect him. Endure what I had to do and survive.”
In Sin’s absent, Lucius is there to see how things are progressing with Stella’s training. As usual, Lucius can be a pain in the ass and kept harassing Stella to give in and spend a night with him. Stella tried it, but no, she loves Sin so much and that she can’t betray that trust Sin have asked of her. All Stella wants is someone to cuddle and hold her at night, giving up Lucius agreed just this, somewhat, platonic sleeping together. I do have a love-hate relationship with this character named Lucius in this series, but in this scene, I love him!
After his supposed to be “rendezvous” with Sophia, Sin eager to get home and be with Stella. And that’s when he saw Stella sleeping with Lucius. Consumed by jealousy, Sin went berserk and parade Sophia as if he’s totally in love with her to the dismay of Stella.
Sin is such a complex character, a hot and cold attitude when it comes to Stella. I really don’t like it when he treated Stella as if she’s nothing. But Stella is too forgiving when it comes to Sin and the make-up sex sweltering hot, that will leave you breathless.
Together Sin and Stella will face the final test to become the Sovereign; will they be able to survive it?
From the moment I choose this book to be my next read, I got hooked with the series. Celia Aaron knows how to twist your emotion with characters that you will love and root for; or personalities that are just so bad that it will be listed in your most hated character in a book. It was time well spent reading this fabulous series. Definitely, Celia Aaron is one author I’ll be happy to add in my 1-click addiction. Well done, Ms. Aaron!!!
Note: An advance copy was generously given by the author for my honest review!
“I would do everything in my power to protect him. Endure what I had to do and survive.”
In Sin’s absent, Lucius is there to see how things are progressing with Stella’s training. As usual, Lucius can be a pain in the ass and kept harassing Stella to give in and spend a night with him. Stella tried it, but no, she loves Sin so much and that she can’t betray that trust Sin have asked of her. All Stella wants is someone to cuddle and hold her at night, giving up Lucius agreed just this, somewhat, platonic sleeping together. I do have a love-hate relationship with this character named Lucius in this series, but in this scene, I love him!
After his supposed to be “rendezvous” with Sophia, Sin eager to get home and be with Stella. And that’s when he saw Stella sleeping with Lucius. Consumed by jealousy, Sin went berserk and parade Sophia as if he’s totally in love with her to the dismay of Stella.
Sin is such a complex character, a hot and cold attitude when it comes to Stella. I really don’t like it when he treated Stella as if she’s nothing. But Stella is too forgiving when it comes to Sin and the make-up sex sweltering hot, that will leave you breathless.
Together Sin and Stella will face the final test to become the Sovereign; will they be able to survive it?
From the moment I choose this book to be my next read, I got hooked with the series. Celia Aaron knows how to twist your emotion with characters that you will love and root for; or personalities that are just so bad that it will be listed in your most hated character in a book. It was time well spent reading this fabulous series. Definitely, Celia Aaron is one author I’ll be happy to add in my 1-click addiction. Well done, Ms. Aaron!!!
Note: An advance copy was generously given by the author for my honest review!
April 22, 2016
The EPIC finale to the Acquisition Series is upon us and, my god, it is great! We’ve followed Stella through these gruelling trials, shuddered with her, hurt with her (not literally of course, thank god) and swooned with her. Did I know just how incredibly strong she’d be? No I didn’t. She’s a character who’s strength continues to shock me.
I’m not one to spoil anything, so this will, as always, be a spoiler free review. (I gotchu!)
This book brings you every single conclusion you’ve ever dreamed of and you’ll still be wanting more. The whole series is probably one of the darkest romances I’ve ever read, and I loved it. I was pushed to the edge and brought back, my palms were sweaty, the Gifs were uncontrollable! I was so emotionally gripped by these characters that I wished I could be in there helping them, defending them and fighting in their corner!
Cal is one of the best evil characters I’ve seen. He’s ridiculously cool and calculating whilst managing to appear completely proper, I loved to hate him, I really did, he repulsed me perfectly. He is one major caaaaaahnt.
Sin and Stella’s relationship will have you pleading with your kindle. You will shout and swoon, it’s a rollercoaster. So much happens in this book that when I think back, it’s hard to believe it all happened in one. So many epic scenes, the blood and the trials were darker than ever, you’ll squirm in your seat and grit your teeth wondering just how far Celia will take you. Sovereign is full of fast paced dark action with perfect sexy moments and swoontastic characters hot enough to counteract the evil ones. If you have a fluffy reading preference then you won’t have made it this far anyway, but if you love the nitty gritty, you will not be disappointed by this series at all, or it’s incredible conclusion.
I am incredibly happy with the ending but I am sad there was one, fingers crossed for some spin offs! I’m not ready to say goodbye to the Vinemont’s just yet.
If you haven't got a massive crush on Celia Aaron yet, you need to correct that!
I’m not one to spoil anything, so this will, as always, be a spoiler free review. (I gotchu!)
This book brings you every single conclusion you’ve ever dreamed of and you’ll still be wanting more. The whole series is probably one of the darkest romances I’ve ever read, and I loved it. I was pushed to the edge and brought back, my palms were sweaty, the Gifs were uncontrollable! I was so emotionally gripped by these characters that I wished I could be in there helping them, defending them and fighting in their corner!
Cal is one of the best evil characters I’ve seen. He’s ridiculously cool and calculating whilst managing to appear completely proper, I loved to hate him, I really did, he repulsed me perfectly. He is one major caaaaaahnt.
Sin and Stella’s relationship will have you pleading with your kindle. You will shout and swoon, it’s a rollercoaster. So much happens in this book that when I think back, it’s hard to believe it all happened in one. So many epic scenes, the blood and the trials were darker than ever, you’ll squirm in your seat and grit your teeth wondering just how far Celia will take you. Sovereign is full of fast paced dark action with perfect sexy moments and swoontastic characters hot enough to counteract the evil ones. If you have a fluffy reading preference then you won’t have made it this far anyway, but if you love the nitty gritty, you will not be disappointed by this series at all, or it’s incredible conclusion.
I am incredibly happy with the ending but I am sad there was one, fingers crossed for some spin offs! I’m not ready to say goodbye to the Vinemont’s just yet.
If you haven't got a massive crush on Celia Aaron yet, you need to correct that!
April 24, 2016
All my stars, Celia can just have them all.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
My previous reviews can be found here:
Counsellor
Magnate
Stella has made it through two trials, but is she strong enough to make it through the final two? They've ruled Stella's life, every waking and sleeping moment has been about the trials; her thoughts are either filled with the horrors of memories or with lust for the man who put her in this position. She knows what is at stake now, how much Sin has to lose, and she's determined to win so she can do everything she can to dismantle the Acquisition and the people who make it thrive.
This book is EVERYTHING. I thought I liked Counsellor and I knew I loved Magnate, but I don't know what word to describe the feelings I have for Sovereign. I am not a series girl, I tend to wander off and get lost in another book, forgetting the characters from the series along the way, but this is one series I just want to throw at everyone. I'll be the first to admit that Counsellor wasn't high on my list of TBRs, but when everyone is screaming such good things about a book, I can't deny the pull. Then I met the characters...and I wrapped myself up in the plot like a blanket, I got lost in these books so strongly that nothing has really compared. Sovereign was not only everything good about the previous two novels, but even more. Every loose end was tied up, the drama was at an all time high, the characters developed beyond my wildest dreams, and the chemistry was on fire (per usual). Seriously, this book and series will set a precedence that I do not think can be matched by any other series for me. It was just perfect.
Not only have I been trapped under the spell of the Vinemonts, but I am completely enamored with Stella and her strength and pure determination. The characters in this book are unlike any others I have met in a book, not often do you meet a character more evil than the devil himself and still find yourself saying, I love what they were to this book. From Cal to the acquisitions, every character played such a vital role in how Sovereign played out and I am so impressed with Celia Aaron's incredible use of every single one. The character development in Soveriegn was stellar, I loved watching each character come into their own, whether it was finding the good in themselves or opening their arms to the evil. Then there's the uber dark story line that either scared you off in book one or pulled you into its dark clutches. Sovereign was so dark and the depravity in this book really weighed on me as I read, but I honestly wouldn't have had it any other way. I loved how the trials played out and the future that was built in Sovereign. I know, that's not really giving you enough, but you have to read the conclusion for yourself. The twists and turns leave you guessing and I definitely didn't see what was coming, so high five Celia Aaron, you surprised me!
The Acquisition series, particularly Sovereign, were unlike anything I've read before. This dark, sociological romance is so unique and I truly think every reader of the Acquisition series will be happy with this conclusion. Like the rest of the series, this book was fast paced, full of angst, and so darn sexy.
PS. Three book boyfriends. Yes, three. You can call me Mrs. Lucius Vinemont if you want to.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
My previous reviews can be found here:
Counsellor
Magnate
Stella has made it through two trials, but is she strong enough to make it through the final two? They've ruled Stella's life, every waking and sleeping moment has been about the trials; her thoughts are either filled with the horrors of memories or with lust for the man who put her in this position. She knows what is at stake now, how much Sin has to lose, and she's determined to win so she can do everything she can to dismantle the Acquisition and the people who make it thrive.
This book is EVERYTHING. I thought I liked Counsellor and I knew I loved Magnate, but I don't know what word to describe the feelings I have for Sovereign. I am not a series girl, I tend to wander off and get lost in another book, forgetting the characters from the series along the way, but this is one series I just want to throw at everyone. I'll be the first to admit that Counsellor wasn't high on my list of TBRs, but when everyone is screaming such good things about a book, I can't deny the pull. Then I met the characters...and I wrapped myself up in the plot like a blanket, I got lost in these books so strongly that nothing has really compared. Sovereign was not only everything good about the previous two novels, but even more. Every loose end was tied up, the drama was at an all time high, the characters developed beyond my wildest dreams, and the chemistry was on fire (per usual). Seriously, this book and series will set a precedence that I do not think can be matched by any other series for me. It was just perfect.
Not only have I been trapped under the spell of the Vinemonts, but I am completely enamored with Stella and her strength and pure determination. The characters in this book are unlike any others I have met in a book, not often do you meet a character more evil than the devil himself and still find yourself saying, I love what they were to this book. From Cal to the acquisitions, every character played such a vital role in how Sovereign played out and I am so impressed with Celia Aaron's incredible use of every single one. The character development in Soveriegn was stellar, I loved watching each character come into their own, whether it was finding the good in themselves or opening their arms to the evil. Then there's the uber dark story line that either scared you off in book one or pulled you into its dark clutches. Sovereign was so dark and the depravity in this book really weighed on me as I read, but I honestly wouldn't have had it any other way. I loved how the trials played out and the future that was built in Sovereign. I know, that's not really giving you enough, but you have to read the conclusion for yourself. The twists and turns leave you guessing and I definitely didn't see what was coming, so high five Celia Aaron, you surprised me!
The Acquisition series, particularly Sovereign, were unlike anything I've read before. This dark, sociological romance is so unique and I truly think every reader of the Acquisition series will be happy with this conclusion. Like the rest of the series, this book was fast paced, full of angst, and so darn sexy.
PS. Three book boyfriends. Yes, three. You can call me Mrs. Lucius Vinemont if you want to.
April 28, 2016
The conclusion is here and any expectations I had have been pleasantly surpassed, with Celia Aaron delivering her final piece to the puzzle in Sovereign. As the beginning of each chapter reveals a secret, each ending reminds you there is always more to know. Placing all her ducks in a row Aaron expertly sets up her characters to deliver one of my favourite series conclusions to date. Reminding readers that nothing is off limits, Aaron’s twisted mind pushes boundaries and captivates hearts. Through Stella and Sin, Aaron effortlessly romanticises blood, thirst and revenge.
Sovereign is a book that needs to be felt. The anticipation of what comes next versus the desperation for answers has readers on the edge of their seat filled with an equal amount of fear and amazement. With the rules of The Acquisition finally out in the open, The Vinemont Family takes it’s place on the main stage with Sin and Stella as their leaders. Impressed by Stella and Sin, their unlikely duo, motivated by anger, pain and love, makes their determination to escape the darkness incredible to witness.
Set against the depraved antics of the South, the relationship that blossoms between Sin and Stella is no doubt the heart and soul of the series. Like the Sun and the Moon, their differences are obvious but there is no doubt that one cannot exist without the other. Weaving together vulnerability and strength, Stella and Sin will have you feeling every tear, every smile and every touch.
With each character expertly fulfilling their intended role Celia Aaron brings a whole new meaning to Dark Romance. As all loose ends tie up, Aaron’s talented writing continues to showcase her ability to captivate her readers. Continuing in alternate point of views and remaining true to the pace of the story, Sovereign very much lives up to expectation. Immersed into a world of sin, slavery and sex The Acquisition series is sure to become a fast favourite.
Sovereign is a book that needs to be felt. The anticipation of what comes next versus the desperation for answers has readers on the edge of their seat filled with an equal amount of fear and amazement. With the rules of The Acquisition finally out in the open, The Vinemont Family takes it’s place on the main stage with Sin and Stella as their leaders. Impressed by Stella and Sin, their unlikely duo, motivated by anger, pain and love, makes their determination to escape the darkness incredible to witness.
Set against the depraved antics of the South, the relationship that blossoms between Sin and Stella is no doubt the heart and soul of the series. Like the Sun and the Moon, their differences are obvious but there is no doubt that one cannot exist without the other. Weaving together vulnerability and strength, Stella and Sin will have you feeling every tear, every smile and every touch.
With each character expertly fulfilling their intended role Celia Aaron brings a whole new meaning to Dark Romance. As all loose ends tie up, Aaron’s talented writing continues to showcase her ability to captivate her readers. Continuing in alternate point of views and remaining true to the pace of the story, Sovereign very much lives up to expectation. Immersed into a world of sin, slavery and sex The Acquisition series is sure to become a fast favourite.
April 28, 2016
4.5 stars.
This was easily one of most anticipated books for me this year and I could not get enough of the Vinemonts, Stella, the how the Acquisition would end. The cruelty in this installment for me surpassed the other books and left me with a feeling of anger and disgust. I also felt a bit of anger with Sin and his actions towards Stella at times. You really see characters true colors in this book and some might surprise you while others reaffirm first impressions. Overall this was a good read I’m satisfied with the ending.
***I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
My Acquisition series Reviews
Book 1: Counsellor
Book 2: Magnate
Sovereign is coming April 28, 2016 but if you're like me, you can't wait to get your hands on this book!
This was easily one of most anticipated books for me this year and I could not get enough of the Vinemonts, Stella, the how the Acquisition would end. The cruelty in this installment for me surpassed the other books and left me with a feeling of anger and disgust. I also felt a bit of anger with Sin and his actions towards Stella at times. You really see characters true colors in this book and some might surprise you while others reaffirm first impressions. Overall this was a good read I’m satisfied with the ending.
***I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
My Acquisition series Reviews
Book 1: Counsellor
Book 2: Magnate
Sovereign is coming April 28, 2016 but if you're like me, you can't wait to get your hands on this book!
December 21, 2017
Brilliant Finale.
Wow the best of the three, couldn't put down in sovereign everything consolidates into an explosive finale that was so worth waiting for, no sympathy for the corrupt individuals that make up this society from me. In this installment we see the trials continue and in the most case (except for a few misunderstandings) we see Sinclair, Stella and Lucius putting together a united front to win the acquisition trials, whatever it takes, brilliant ending that wrapped up everything and gave me a sweet satisfaction that the evil monsters got exactly what they deserved, its so nice when the bad guys get outwitted so expertly and with such style bravo Celia Aaron on A job well done.
Wow the best of the three, couldn't put down in sovereign everything consolidates into an explosive finale that was so worth waiting for, no sympathy for the corrupt individuals that make up this society from me. In this installment we see the trials continue and in the most case (except for a few misunderstandings) we see Sinclair, Stella and Lucius putting together a united front to win the acquisition trials, whatever it takes, brilliant ending that wrapped up everything and gave me a sweet satisfaction that the evil monsters got exactly what they deserved, its so nice when the bad guys get outwitted so expertly and with such style bravo Celia Aaron on A job well done.
May 21, 2016
Counsellor by Celia Aaron
Overall Rating: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Character Development: 5 stars
Plot: 5 stars
Originality: 5 stars
Sovereign begins with Stella training for the last two gruelling trials of the Aquisition. She's an amazingly resilient and fierce competitor and determined to destroy the elite society who has her ensnared in their depraved games. "I want to burn it all down."
Though Stella doesn't have a choice, the love she has for her new family compells her to endure and fight to the finish.
What would you do for love?
How far are you willing to go?
Could you kill?
Would you sacrifice yourself?
Stella and Sinclair find out in this dramatic conclusion of The Acquisition series. This book had me completely riveted, on the edge of my seat, pulling out my hair, laughing, swooning, crying, and foot-stomping mad! I absolutely loved it! It was one big twisted roller coaster ride of emotion!
Cal was certifiable. I wanted to stomp him into the ground! He was one of the most vile, sadistic villians I've read in awhile.
I had absolutely no clue how this story would end and was enthralled at the dramatic conclusion Celia created. Plot twists, unpredictable storyline, intense scenes, exceptional character development, vile deeds, this book was thrilling and dark, yet, still a story about love and family at it's heart.
The ending was like a beautiful watery oasis after a long ride in the desert sun. I loved the epilogue, it ended perfectly but I would love to see Lucious-Lucius get his happy ending too!
Overall Rating: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Character Development: 5 stars
Plot: 5 stars
Originality: 5 stars
Sovereign begins with Stella training for the last two gruelling trials of the Aquisition. She's an amazingly resilient and fierce competitor and determined to destroy the elite society who has her ensnared in their depraved games. "I want to burn it all down."
Though Stella doesn't have a choice, the love she has for her new family compells her to endure and fight to the finish.
What would you do for love?
How far are you willing to go?
Could you kill?
Would you sacrifice yourself?
Stella and Sinclair find out in this dramatic conclusion of The Acquisition series. This book had me completely riveted, on the edge of my seat, pulling out my hair, laughing, swooning, crying, and foot-stomping mad! I absolutely loved it! It was one big twisted roller coaster ride of emotion!
Cal was certifiable. I wanted to stomp him into the ground! He was one of the most vile, sadistic villians I've read in awhile.
I had absolutely no clue how this story would end and was enthralled at the dramatic conclusion Celia created. Plot twists, unpredictable storyline, intense scenes, exceptional character development, vile deeds, this book was thrilling and dark, yet, still a story about love and family at it's heart.
The ending was like a beautiful watery oasis after a long ride in the desert sun. I loved the epilogue, it ended perfectly but I would love to see Lucious-Lucius get his happy ending too!
October 7, 2018
'Sovereign' by Celia Aaron is book three in the "Acquisition" series. This continues the story of Sinclair and Stella. I feel you do have read the previous books to understand this one.
This whole series for me has been a bad pleasure I can't stop reading. I enjoy the great writing of Ms. Aaron and how she brings you into this book. What I have to only give it three stars is that I think this book is to harsh for a romance story. This book clearly states is is a dark story so I am really at fault for hold that against it. But I truly am crazy about this series...it like passing an accident. You shouldn't look but I am just so curious as to what is going on. This did end with a happy ending so I am so glad to have read finished this series. This is for sure a book you don't put down!
This whole series for me has been a bad pleasure I can't stop reading. I enjoy the great writing of Ms. Aaron and how she brings you into this book. What I have to only give it three stars is that I think this book is to harsh for a romance story. This book clearly states is is a dark story so I am really at fault for hold that against it. But I truly am crazy about this series...it like passing an accident. You shouldn't look but I am just so curious as to what is going on. This did end with a happy ending so I am so glad to have read finished this series. This is for sure a book you don't put down!
January 9, 2019
Over all rating for all three books in the Acquisition series is 3.75.
In short, I loved the fast pacing, the depravity and the vile action on dark, dubious and kinky BUT on the other hand, that same "fast pacing" made the connection (whatever the dark shade it had between Sinclair and Stella - too fast, too soon and thus making it non-credible, I didn't feel it, it came to fast along with everything and that "important" segment in these kind of darkish storytelling, for me, is crucial and here, it's a bit lacking.
The series had the Indebted series' vibe BUT like I've mentioned it didn't have that emotionally dark strength like Pepper Winters' work.
And I'm not saying that in attempt to berate the two, or one of the two, it's impossible to compare either author and that is not my intention here however, the comparison inflicts itself and I'm just stating it out loud.
All in all, I was intertainted while reading Celia's work, even though I was way over due with reading them and being late for the party as it is, makes me kinda revel in it more :)
In short, I loved the fast pacing, the depravity and the vile action on dark, dubious and kinky BUT on the other hand, that same "fast pacing" made the connection (whatever the dark shade it had between Sinclair and Stella - too fast, too soon and thus making it non-credible, I didn't feel it, it came to fast along with everything and that "important" segment in these kind of darkish storytelling, for me, is crucial and here, it's a bit lacking.
The series had the Indebted series' vibe BUT like I've mentioned it didn't have that emotionally dark strength like Pepper Winters' work.
And I'm not saying that in attempt to berate the two, or one of the two, it's impossible to compare either author and that is not my intention here however, the comparison inflicts itself and I'm just stating it out loud.
All in all, I was intertainted while reading Celia's work, even though I was way over due with reading them and being late for the party as it is, makes me kinda revel in it more :)
March 29, 2017
**Sovereign generously provided in exchange for an honest review.**
5+ "I want to burn it all down." Stars
I feel so privileged to have had the amazing opportunity to read this series and meet these complex characters. So much love for these books has settled in my reading soul. One of my favorite dark erotic love story series ever. If there were ever heroine to completely fall in love with and stay in love with throughout an entire wickedly dark series, Stella Rousseau embodies that heroine. Paired with the devious and tortured Sinclair Vinemont and the girl is literally explosive.
Sovereign eloquently juxtaposes the fierce determination and liquid vulnerabilities of both Stella and Sin. As the conclusion of a dark, sinful experience in reading quite an emotional battle happened during Sovereign as a strange combination of disturbed and elated feelings kept me barreling through the story.
Reading books 1 & 2 are necessary before reading Sovereign. This book is told from the dual points of view of both heroine and hero, Stella and Sinclair. It continues where book two leaves off with the newest information Stella has learned about the trials fueling her desire to be stronger than ever before. With two trials down in the Acquisition and two more to go it's survival of the fittest and in the Vinemont household love is as prevalent as depravity as everyone prepares for the end of this twisted competition.
I'm once again in awe of Celia Aaron's ability to cultivate such conflicting emotions in my reading mind. During the course of this series and this specific book three I've felt physically ill, at times, with the hate I had for some of the villains in this story and the decisions of my beloved characters who are just trying to survive.
I've felt beyond sad the tortured Sin. I've felt regret for what's come of Stella's life. I've felt sick with worry about the state of the Acquisition. Beyond those feelings of despair I've felt hope for both Stella and Sin. I've felt joy in learning what they plan to accomplish together. I felt ecstatic in the knowledge of the trust they finally give to each other. And I felt pride in Stella and Sin's strength, compassion, and steadfast ability to accomplish what they set out to do. All of these feelings in the name of Aaron's incredible talent for storytelling.
Deliciously dark. Daringly depraved. Deviously detailed. Expressively erotic. All of this explains the levels of passion, the depth of emotion, and the well-structured plot of Sovereign and the series as a whole. Celia Aaron's mind is a fascinating place to spend time. Her characters are dark reflections of desire, power, and need. The urgency with which she writes this haunting love story/series pulls you under her twisted spell for the entirety of each story.
I cannot begin to express how much I support and urge readers who love the dark side of romance to read this entire passionate series. This author perfectly structured her books and the arcs of the plot to end fantastically, always keeping readers on the edge of their seats furiously gripping their Kindles all the way through to the end plus provided the most wonderful epilogue. I'm going to miss the Acquisition trials. I'm going to miss Sin and Stella more. And I'll especially miss the darkness Celia Aaron's words coat us with trhough her brilliant storytelling. I can't wait to see where this author takes us next. I'm hoping it's on a ride with Lucius Vinemont....
Thanks to my girl, Deanna PinkLady, for reading this with me and all the hand holding. Watch for her review here. It was a hell of a ride, D!
My 5+ star reviews for the Acquisition series:
Book One: Counsellor
Book Two: Magnate
August 15, 2016
This third and final of the Acquisition series took my rating up to a border 4/5 for the whole series.
The first part Counsellor I was quite shocked with, the revelations of how Stella, the heroine in my eyes, became conned, sold and embroiled with a group of rich, decadent depraved southerners who cared for their own clique at the expense of her life, health and sexuality. I disliked Sinclair & Lucius, loathed their sovereign, Cal, and Red and co. Felt so for the other two acquisitions Brianne and Gavin...nearly, so nearly ended in my DNF pile of, only one book so far has ever fit that shelf. But this goaded my ire like few others. But couldn't give more than three stars for how it affected me personally.
I was encouraged by our groups ruler ;) Sir Charles, and I respect him so completed, and still wasn't sure but moved on to the second part Magnate. By the end of this I was seething, disgusted that a parent could be as hers, and that Teddy and others lives might truly be endangered by this sick depraved controlling secret society, and I wanted justice and vengeance with capital letters. But the story had taken hold and possibility that despite all that love grew, and by now despite my emotive responses, I gave it four stars.
So, angry, I needed time to come to the third part, Sovereign, and I have just finished this, though a short story focussing on Sinclair is still to be read.
All I can say is wow, for the imaginative way this was brought to a climax, though to be honest, one part of me wanted to see slower vengeance wreaked on those deserving good win out over evil. Nothing upset me quite as much as the evil re the occurrence with Brianne's mother. I am shocked the writer could do such, as I know I couldn't. I'm afraid if I had been Stella, I'd have tempted to forfeit her father...but!
The finale never mentioned her arch nemesis Sophia, and I would have liked that to have been explicit as well as the just deserts of such as Cal, Red, the Judge...and Dylan, being long and drawn out. Oops I seem to have veered towards the side of becoming a torturer...what has this series done to me :)
Well done Celia, you deviant minded woman. You won me over. As a series this is a border 4/5 star for me.
The first part Counsellor I was quite shocked with, the revelations of how Stella, the heroine in my eyes, became conned, sold and embroiled with a group of rich, decadent depraved southerners who cared for their own clique at the expense of her life, health and sexuality. I disliked Sinclair & Lucius, loathed their sovereign, Cal, and Red and co. Felt so for the other two acquisitions Brianne and Gavin...nearly, so nearly ended in my DNF pile of, only one book so far has ever fit that shelf. But this goaded my ire like few others. But couldn't give more than three stars for how it affected me personally.
I was encouraged by our groups ruler ;) Sir Charles, and I respect him so completed, and still wasn't sure but moved on to the second part Magnate. By the end of this I was seething, disgusted that a parent could be as hers, and that Teddy and others lives might truly be endangered by this sick depraved controlling secret society, and I wanted justice and vengeance with capital letters. But the story had taken hold and possibility that despite all that love grew, and by now despite my emotive responses, I gave it four stars.
So, angry, I needed time to come to the third part, Sovereign, and I have just finished this, though a short story focussing on Sinclair is still to be read.
All I can say is wow, for the imaginative way this was brought to a climax, though to be honest, one part of me wanted to see slower vengeance wreaked on those deserving good win out over evil. Nothing upset me quite as much as the evil re the occurrence with Brianne's mother. I am shocked the writer could do such, as I know I couldn't. I'm afraid if I had been Stella, I'd have tempted to forfeit her father...but!
The finale never mentioned her arch nemesis Sophia, and I would have liked that to have been explicit as well as the just deserts of such as Cal, Red, the Judge...and Dylan, being long and drawn out. Oops I seem to have veered towards the side of becoming a torturer...what has this series done to me :)
Well done Celia, you deviant minded woman. You won me over. As a series this is a border 4/5 star for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2016
OMG! Perfect way to end a great series!!! I've enjoyed the entire Acquisition series, but Sovereign is definitely my favorite. Sighs... The Vinemont brothers are everything! One minute Sinclair was rooted in my soul. The next, Lucius was ripping those roots out and replacing them with his. And Teddy, my sweet Teddy, his innocence was refreshing. Each brother owning a piece of my heart. Damn Stella for being the center of their world. I loved Stella throughout the entire series but I really loved her character in this book. She's such a temptress. Strong willed, sexy and confident with men falling at her feet. Celia Aaron did an amazing job writing, taking you through the 7 acquisitions. She brought this book to life and I loved every minute of it!
February 6, 2017
3.5 STARS
Conclusion to this dark and weird series. It picks up where previous book left off. We are coming to the end of the "acquisition trials" and they are not for the faint of heart (brutal beatings). We found out why these trials are so important in the previous book.
This series did have a good ending...
I recommend this for lovers of dark books or fans of the debt series by Pepper Winters.
Conclusion to this dark and weird series. It picks up where previous book left off. We are coming to the end of the "acquisition trials" and they are not for the faint of heart (brutal beatings). We found out why these trials are so important in the previous book.
This series did have a good ending...
I recommend this for lovers of dark books or fans of the debt series by Pepper Winters.
November 18, 2022
Hunger games on crack and I’m here for it . Best series I’ve read In a while
April 21, 2016
Rated 4.5 Stars
I'm not ashamed at the rate in which I devoured this book, I read the entire thing in one sitting. I really and truly could not bear to put it down because I needed to know what would happen next and how it would all end.
While I found the ending quite fitting and satisfying there was one question I needed an answer for, it wasn't anything big but I would've liked an explanation all the same.
All in all it was a great read filled with some unexpected moments, some dirty sex and some emotional moments. Kudos to the author for creating a book/series that kept my eyes glued to the page.
This author has become one of my favourites solely off of this series and I cannot wait to see what else she has in store for us readers.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
I'm not ashamed at the rate in which I devoured this book, I read the entire thing in one sitting. I really and truly could not bear to put it down because I needed to know what would happen next and how it would all end.
While I found the ending quite fitting and satisfying there was one question I needed an answer for, it wasn't anything big but I would've liked an explanation all the same.
All in all it was a great read filled with some unexpected moments, some dirty sex and some emotional moments. Kudos to the author for creating a book/series that kept my eyes glued to the page.
This author has become one of my favourites solely off of this series and I cannot wait to see what else she has in store for us readers.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
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