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Shadows in the Dark #2
Love and War: Volume One
They say your childhood paves the way to adulthood, and maybe it does. I know mine was lit up in flames. I walked the roads of Hell until I figured out that the only way to survive was to exist under a cloak of darkness—to deal with the devil himself. It was the only way to escape the pain, the torment. But the nightmares are still very real. They’ll never leave me alone. The shadows of solitude follow me wherever I go.
Weapons—they can be anything I need them to be. Unlike people in my life, they are predictable, dependable. Without any effort they can cause so much destruction, but also so much peace. Through the internal chaos, the anger that won’t cease, and the constant noise, everything is silenced with the pull of the trigger.
Ink—I’ve loved it since I can remember. It defines me. It’s my release. When I feel like I’m about to blow I turn to the needle. It is the one high I need. I brand people. It’s what I do. Kross Brannon is the best there is when it comes to tattoos. The success of my company proves it.
But I never teach. Those that work for me learn from someone else. I’m a solo artist. Always have been and always will be…but then I looked up and saw her, standing in my shop, beautiful, tattooed, and her soul screaming for me to reach out. She was a force of nature I couldn’t turn away.
That’s the moment everything started falling into place…
Note from the author: Dark Romance. Please be advised there may be emotional triggers for some. If you do not like dark themes this book may not be for you. Suitable for ages 18+ due to content.
Weapons—they can be anything I need them to be. Unlike people in my life, they are predictable, dependable. Without any effort they can cause so much destruction, but also so much peace. Through the internal chaos, the anger that won’t cease, and the constant noise, everything is silenced with the pull of the trigger.
Ink—I’ve loved it since I can remember. It defines me. It’s my release. When I feel like I’m about to blow I turn to the needle. It is the one high I need. I brand people. It’s what I do. Kross Brannon is the best there is when it comes to tattoos. The success of my company proves it.
But I never teach. Those that work for me learn from someone else. I’m a solo artist. Always have been and always will be…but then I looked up and saw her, standing in my shop, beautiful, tattooed, and her soul screaming for me to reach out. She was a force of nature I couldn’t turn away.
That’s the moment everything started falling into place…
Note from the author: Dark Romance. Please be advised there may be emotional triggers for some. If you do not like dark themes this book may not be for you. Suitable for ages 18+ due to content.
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2018
670 people are currently reading
3282 people want to read
About the author
Charisse Spiers
59 books650 followersI found books when I was going through a hard time in life. They became my means of escape when things got bad. I realized quickly how much I loved to take a backseat to someone else's life and watch the journey unfold. That began my journey with books in November of 2012. I constantly had a book open on my Kindle app. Never in a million years would I have imagined myself as a writer, because I never thought I was creative enough. I'm living proof that things will fall into place when they're meant to be. People will make their way into our lives when we don't expect it, setting the path for what we are meant to do. Never give up on people. Never stop taking a chance on others. Someone took a chance on trusting me with her work when she didn't know me from a stranger on the street and gave me the opportunity of a lifetime as our relationship progressed, which led me to editing and writing as well. This is my dream I never knew I had. As soon as I sat down and gave writing a shot, it was like the floodgates opened. Now, I am lost in a world of fiction in my head, new characters constantly screaming for their stories to be told. Continue to dream and to go for them. No one ever found happiness by sitting on the sidelines. Sometimes we have to take risks and put ourselves out there. Thank you for all of your support, and may there be many books to come. XOXO- C
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
March 6, 2019
Excerpt:
Kross . . .
I look back through my side mirror as the black suburban pulls in behind me. I glance over at the passenger seat, the taste of her still lingering on my tongue. Her smell clings to my scent palate in a way nothing ever has. Her head is leaning against the window and her feet are folded in the seat.
Don't ask me why I fucking brought her. I don't just bring people into my business. The more people that know increases my chances of getting caught. I don't get caught. Ever. Too much is at stake if I do. I'll kill before I will. Done it before. The only way to keep respect is to have people fear you. To instill fear in someone is to fear nothing and prove you aren't a pushover. Sometimes you have to make an example out of someone to do so. And I haven't feared anything in a long time. I just hope she can keep her mouth shut. It'd be unfortunate to execute someone with such God-given talent. Someone that makes my mouth water simply by existing. The only way to truly know is to test her.
She looks at me when I kill the truck. I grip the back of her neck, having told her basically nothing this entire drive. To ensure she pays attention, I force her head to look up at me. "Don't say a fucking word; don't stare at them, stay by me, and the second this is done never speak of it again, not even to Lux. Do I make myself clear?"
"Okay."
"Let's go."
I open my door and get out, waiting for her to round the front. They stay in the suburban, watching me, as I walk toward the storage unit they pulled next to. I glance around before stopping at the appropriate one. After this deal I'll cancel this unit and move on to another. I never keep anything long-term. Habitual behavior is what gets people locked up. I don't do well in a cage. The demons then come out to play.
They open the doors to the SUV when I shove the key in the lock, pulling it off and lifting the door. "Get inside." She does as I say and I wait for the two men to enter before me, and then I file in behind them, shutting the door and turning on the overhead light.
"They all here?" the one running this operation asks.
"Yes. I got the full order."
"Who's this?" He nods at Delta in the back corner, his hand on his piece under his shirt that's strapped to his waist. "You didn't mention someone else."
"She's with me. You don't have to worry about her."
"I don't like surprises."
"If she runs her mouth I'll kill her myself."
"Let me see her dirty."
I stare at him, his hand still on his gun. He doesn't scare me, but if he gets pissed off she'll be the one he aims for. He knows he can't take me down. "Delta, come here."
She walks toward me and I hold out my hand. The one staying quiet places a small, clear bag in it. "It's already ready to go."
She's looking at me, questioning me without even opening her mouth. I reach into my pocket, pulling out the cheap BIC pen and then disassemble it, keeping only the hollow cylinder. She takes it as soon as I hand it to her, waiting for instruction. I pour two lines, snorting the first one, because there is no way they are leaving without the full bag being gone and I'm not letting her do that much blow. They are the runners for one of my biggest buyers. You don't move that much inventory without being serious about using it if necessary to cover your ass.
I wipe the residue off my nose and pull her to the box in front of me. "Snort it."
I can feel her shaking as she looks at it, but without hesitating she places one side of the narrow pen casing to the end of the line, the other at her nostril, and does it, inhaling it all and leaving nothing behind. Her hand immediately starts wiping at her nose and she keeps sniffing. "You ready to do this?"
"Let me see her chest, bruh. I don't play."
He's pissing me off. I turn us, keeping her back at my front, before gripping the bottom hem of her shirt and lifting it to her neck to show him she's not wearing a wire, then slowly turn her for him to see the back. "Now quit harassing my girl and let's do this before I cancel the order. I'm sure he's made you well aware not to fuck with me. No one else can fill that kind of quota on short notice. I'll tell Hector myself his two goons couldn't do the job and he can come see me if he has a problem with it. Do you want the shipment or not?"
He walks forward, the gold cap on his tooth showing through the smirk he has on his face. He's looking at her in a way that makes me want to rip every tooth from his head one at a time. He grabs her chin in his hand. She tries to turn away, but he's gripping her too tight. His tongue runs along his teeth as he looks at her. I swear to God if he touches her with it I'll cut it off. "We good, Man. Just gotta protect boss-man. You sure do know how to pick 'em. I bet this one is fun to look at while she rides."
My eyes close, my jaw working overtime, the cocaine filtering through every vessel. I open them, ready to shred something from the anger quickly building. "You have about a second to remove your fucking hand from her or I will kill you with the very gun strapped to your body. If you think I'm incapable keep up your shit. I've been doing this a hell of a lot longer than you have."
He drops it. "Open the boxes and we'll pay and be on our way."
I open the one in front of us and grab the 9mm sitting on top, tossing it to him. He inspects it and places it back in, waiting on me to open all of them so he can see inside. After the final one he grabs the small duffel from his partner and tosses it to me. "It's all there."
"I'll check."
He sucks his gold tooth. "Load them, Dwayne."
His partner lifts the unit door and walks toward the truck, taking one box with him. "Delta, get in the truck."
She doesn't even let the last word exit my mouth before taking off in a sprint toward it. Before he can wrap his eighth grade educated mind around what I'm about to do, I close the door and move behind him, grabbing his black hair in my fist, the point of my knife already pressed into the rosary beads between the praying hands over his jugular. His hand goes to his gun. "Try it, motherfucker. I'm much faster than you."
I smell along his neck—fear—watching the blue line become more visible as the blood pumps harder and faster through his vein. I press the tip into the skin, along the edge of his vein and pull downward, purposefully missing it, but hard enough to watch the blood seep through as his skin parts from the cut. "I may be his dealer but I don't work for anyone, especially not someone like you that's easily disposable. Who do you think Hector will get rid of if you fuck up his vendors, huh? Me or you?" He grits his teeth, bucking against me, earning him another slice. "If you ever fuck with something that belongs to me again, specifically that someone, you won't walk away alive. One centimeter over and I can watch the blood drain from your body one beat at a time. I'm not a man of second chances. Next time I'll bury you where no one will find you. Get your shit and lock up. I'll be watching."
I release him and disarm him as I shove him forward, before walking to the door, lifting it once again. Delta has her fingertips in her mouth, staring out the truck window at me when my eyes land on her. "Tell your boss to expect my call."
And I will, because if he sends that stupid-ass motherfucker back his head will return in a box just like the inventory he was sent after.
Kross . . .
I look back through my side mirror as the black suburban pulls in behind me. I glance over at the passenger seat, the taste of her still lingering on my tongue. Her smell clings to my scent palate in a way nothing ever has. Her head is leaning against the window and her feet are folded in the seat.
Don't ask me why I fucking brought her. I don't just bring people into my business. The more people that know increases my chances of getting caught. I don't get caught. Ever. Too much is at stake if I do. I'll kill before I will. Done it before. The only way to keep respect is to have people fear you. To instill fear in someone is to fear nothing and prove you aren't a pushover. Sometimes you have to make an example out of someone to do so. And I haven't feared anything in a long time. I just hope she can keep her mouth shut. It'd be unfortunate to execute someone with such God-given talent. Someone that makes my mouth water simply by existing. The only way to truly know is to test her.
She looks at me when I kill the truck. I grip the back of her neck, having told her basically nothing this entire drive. To ensure she pays attention, I force her head to look up at me. "Don't say a fucking word; don't stare at them, stay by me, and the second this is done never speak of it again, not even to Lux. Do I make myself clear?"
"Okay."
"Let's go."
I open my door and get out, waiting for her to round the front. They stay in the suburban, watching me, as I walk toward the storage unit they pulled next to. I glance around before stopping at the appropriate one. After this deal I'll cancel this unit and move on to another. I never keep anything long-term. Habitual behavior is what gets people locked up. I don't do well in a cage. The demons then come out to play.
They open the doors to the SUV when I shove the key in the lock, pulling it off and lifting the door. "Get inside." She does as I say and I wait for the two men to enter before me, and then I file in behind them, shutting the door and turning on the overhead light.
"They all here?" the one running this operation asks.
"Yes. I got the full order."
"Who's this?" He nods at Delta in the back corner, his hand on his piece under his shirt that's strapped to his waist. "You didn't mention someone else."
"She's with me. You don't have to worry about her."
"I don't like surprises."
"If she runs her mouth I'll kill her myself."
"Let me see her dirty."
I stare at him, his hand still on his gun. He doesn't scare me, but if he gets pissed off she'll be the one he aims for. He knows he can't take me down. "Delta, come here."
She walks toward me and I hold out my hand. The one staying quiet places a small, clear bag in it. "It's already ready to go."
She's looking at me, questioning me without even opening her mouth. I reach into my pocket, pulling out the cheap BIC pen and then disassemble it, keeping only the hollow cylinder. She takes it as soon as I hand it to her, waiting for instruction. I pour two lines, snorting the first one, because there is no way they are leaving without the full bag being gone and I'm not letting her do that much blow. They are the runners for one of my biggest buyers. You don't move that much inventory without being serious about using it if necessary to cover your ass.
I wipe the residue off my nose and pull her to the box in front of me. "Snort it."
I can feel her shaking as she looks at it, but without hesitating she places one side of the narrow pen casing to the end of the line, the other at her nostril, and does it, inhaling it all and leaving nothing behind. Her hand immediately starts wiping at her nose and she keeps sniffing. "You ready to do this?"
"Let me see her chest, bruh. I don't play."
He's pissing me off. I turn us, keeping her back at my front, before gripping the bottom hem of her shirt and lifting it to her neck to show him she's not wearing a wire, then slowly turn her for him to see the back. "Now quit harassing my girl and let's do this before I cancel the order. I'm sure he's made you well aware not to fuck with me. No one else can fill that kind of quota on short notice. I'll tell Hector myself his two goons couldn't do the job and he can come see me if he has a problem with it. Do you want the shipment or not?"
He walks forward, the gold cap on his tooth showing through the smirk he has on his face. He's looking at her in a way that makes me want to rip every tooth from his head one at a time. He grabs her chin in his hand. She tries to turn away, but he's gripping her too tight. His tongue runs along his teeth as he looks at her. I swear to God if he touches her with it I'll cut it off. "We good, Man. Just gotta protect boss-man. You sure do know how to pick 'em. I bet this one is fun to look at while she rides."
My eyes close, my jaw working overtime, the cocaine filtering through every vessel. I open them, ready to shred something from the anger quickly building. "You have about a second to remove your fucking hand from her or I will kill you with the very gun strapped to your body. If you think I'm incapable keep up your shit. I've been doing this a hell of a lot longer than you have."
He drops it. "Open the boxes and we'll pay and be on our way."
I open the one in front of us and grab the 9mm sitting on top, tossing it to him. He inspects it and places it back in, waiting on me to open all of them so he can see inside. After the final one he grabs the small duffel from his partner and tosses it to me. "It's all there."
"I'll check."
He sucks his gold tooth. "Load them, Dwayne."
His partner lifts the unit door and walks toward the truck, taking one box with him. "Delta, get in the truck."
She doesn't even let the last word exit my mouth before taking off in a sprint toward it. Before he can wrap his eighth grade educated mind around what I'm about to do, I close the door and move behind him, grabbing his black hair in my fist, the point of my knife already pressed into the rosary beads between the praying hands over his jugular. His hand goes to his gun. "Try it, motherfucker. I'm much faster than you."
I smell along his neck—fear—watching the blue line become more visible as the blood pumps harder and faster through his vein. I press the tip into the skin, along the edge of his vein and pull downward, purposefully missing it, but hard enough to watch the blood seep through as his skin parts from the cut. "I may be his dealer but I don't work for anyone, especially not someone like you that's easily disposable. Who do you think Hector will get rid of if you fuck up his vendors, huh? Me or you?" He grits his teeth, bucking against me, earning him another slice. "If you ever fuck with something that belongs to me again, specifically that someone, you won't walk away alive. One centimeter over and I can watch the blood drain from your body one beat at a time. I'm not a man of second chances. Next time I'll bury you where no one will find you. Get your shit and lock up. I'll be watching."
I release him and disarm him as I shove him forward, before walking to the door, lifting it once again. Delta has her fingertips in her mouth, staring out the truck window at me when my eyes land on her. "Tell your boss to expect my call."
And I will, because if he sends that stupid-ass motherfucker back his head will return in a box just like the inventory he was sent after.
October 6, 2023
OMG! What a totally awesome read! I loved the story from cover to cover, and I could not put it down. The story had an amazing cast of characters, both good and bad, and we loved them all.
The story was filled with so much emotion, one minute you were laughing your butt off, and the next you felt like crying. The story kept me on edge the entire time and I felt like Kross almost gave me whiplash as his moods changed so rapidly that one minute he was all dark dangerous and scary as hell, the next trying to be super sweet or as reasonable as Kross can be. OMG! I just loved his character and I have to say he even scared the hell out of me.
Delta was a favorite character of mine as I found her to be sweet, kind, caring, mouthy, had a wicked sense of humor, sexy, bold, strong but, not so strong as not to have her own insecurities. Delta was broken yet determined.
I have to say that I loved her friendship with Lux they were perfect for one another and when they were together they were a hoot!
Kross and Delta were an explosive couple in and out of bed and perfect for one another. The two of them together were hot! Hot! And hotter! This duo took us on one heck of a ride! Holy friggen fanning!
I loved Kross as broken as he was, and you felt the pain this man suffered and understood how all these tragic events in his life shaped him into the man he is today. We saw two sides of Kross the very, very dark and dangerous killer but. Underneath it, all was capable of so much love. I loved his struggles and how he adapted to change as sometimes it had a positive effect sometimes a negative one but, he eventually worked through them in his own Kross way. Kross was very dark, but, loving someone and caring for them changed him for the better. I loved how he let Delta see both sides of him the good along with the bad yet still loved him by knowing some of his deepest darkest secrets she stayed and loved him with all his faults. Delta suffered her own demons and even though they were not as dark as his she understood the man because of her own past being so jaded it made them just perfect for each other.
We loved the tale as well as the setting and all the characters as they added tons of humor to a book that was very intense and very dark, we loved the balance of it all. This is the type of story that had you totally engrossed from the very first pages, and I hated to see it end. I have to say once the book ended I started right on the next one and the remainder of the story did not disappoint.
I love it when you can connect with the characters that you read about, and I was able to do that as the characters were intriguing to read about as they were definitely an eclectic group of individuals working that tattoo parlor. Not only that, but I have to say, their antics had me laughing more than once. So looking forward to reading more of this series as we would love to see more of Delta and Kross as well as the other characters that we have gotten to know.
This author has gained a new fan! Can't wait for my next read...
5 Amazing stars from us
The story was filled with so much emotion, one minute you were laughing your butt off, and the next you felt like crying. The story kept me on edge the entire time and I felt like Kross almost gave me whiplash as his moods changed so rapidly that one minute he was all dark dangerous and scary as hell, the next trying to be super sweet or as reasonable as Kross can be. OMG! I just loved his character and I have to say he even scared the hell out of me.
Delta was a favorite character of mine as I found her to be sweet, kind, caring, mouthy, had a wicked sense of humor, sexy, bold, strong but, not so strong as not to have her own insecurities. Delta was broken yet determined.
I have to say that I loved her friendship with Lux they were perfect for one another and when they were together they were a hoot!
Kross and Delta were an explosive couple in and out of bed and perfect for one another. The two of them together were hot! Hot! And hotter! This duo took us on one heck of a ride! Holy friggen fanning!
I loved Kross as broken as he was, and you felt the pain this man suffered and understood how all these tragic events in his life shaped him into the man he is today. We saw two sides of Kross the very, very dark and dangerous killer but. Underneath it, all was capable of so much love. I loved his struggles and how he adapted to change as sometimes it had a positive effect sometimes a negative one but, he eventually worked through them in his own Kross way. Kross was very dark, but, loving someone and caring for them changed him for the better. I loved how he let Delta see both sides of him the good along with the bad yet still loved him by knowing some of his deepest darkest secrets she stayed and loved him with all his faults. Delta suffered her own demons and even though they were not as dark as his she understood the man because of her own past being so jaded it made them just perfect for each other.
We loved the tale as well as the setting and all the characters as they added tons of humor to a book that was very intense and very dark, we loved the balance of it all. This is the type of story that had you totally engrossed from the very first pages, and I hated to see it end. I have to say once the book ended I started right on the next one and the remainder of the story did not disappoint.
I love it when you can connect with the characters that you read about, and I was able to do that as the characters were intriguing to read about as they were definitely an eclectic group of individuals working that tattoo parlor. Not only that, but I have to say, their antics had me laughing more than once. So looking forward to reading more of this series as we would love to see more of Delta and Kross as well as the other characters that we have gotten to know.
This author has gained a new fan! Can't wait for my next read...
5 Amazing stars from us
April 20, 2018
My first read by this author and what an awesome start. I absolutely loved this story.
This is part one of Kross and Deltas story. Both are broken damaged characters. Delta is a great character. I loved how strong, sexy and feisty she is. Kross is a tattoo artist. He’s a hot alpha. When Delta sits in his chair he realises how much he wants her. The chemistry between these two is off the charts hot.
So glad I’ve got part two waiting on my kindle as this was a brilliant read and after that ending I know I wouldn’t wanna want.
I loved the twists and turns and can’t wait to read more.
This is part one of Kross and Deltas story. Both are broken damaged characters. Delta is a great character. I loved how strong, sexy and feisty she is. Kross is a tattoo artist. He’s a hot alpha. When Delta sits in his chair he realises how much he wants her. The chemistry between these two is off the charts hot.
So glad I’ve got part two waiting on my kindle as this was a brilliant read and after that ending I know I wouldn’t wanna want.
I loved the twists and turns and can’t wait to read more.
Want to read
November 3, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/3/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
The f*cking lights. They are all I can remember. Everywhere I turn I see them. They haunt my dreams, and now my reality. She liked the lights. I do remember that. It was part of her life, and in turn a part of mine, until the day I forgot it all.
They say your childhood paves the way to adulthood, and maybe it does. I know mine was lit up in flames. I walked the roads of Hell until I figured out that the only way to survive was to exist under a cloak of darkness—to deal with the devil himself. It was the only way to escape the pain, the torment. But the nightmares are still very real. They’ll never leave me alone. The shadows of solitude follow me wherever I go.
Weapons—they can be anything I need them to be. Unlike people in my life, they are predictable, dependable. Without any effort they can cause so much destruction, but also so much peace. Through the internal chaos, the anger that won’t cease, and the constant noise, everything is silenced with the pull of the trigger.
Ink—I’ve loved it since I can remember. It defines me. It’s my release. When I feel like I’m about to blow I turn to the needle. It is the one high I need. I brand people. It’s what I do. Kross Brannon is the best there is when it comes to tattoos. The success of my company proves it.
But I never teach. Those that work for me learn from someone else. I’m a solo artist. Always have been and always will be…but then I looked up and saw her, standing in my shop, beautiful, tattooed, and her soul screaming for me to reach out. She was a force of nature I couldn’t turn away.
That’s the moment everything started falling into place…
Blurb:
The f*cking lights. They are all I can remember. Everywhere I turn I see them. They haunt my dreams, and now my reality. She liked the lights. I do remember that. It was part of her life, and in turn a part of mine, until the day I forgot it all.
They say your childhood paves the way to adulthood, and maybe it does. I know mine was lit up in flames. I walked the roads of Hell until I figured out that the only way to survive was to exist under a cloak of darkness—to deal with the devil himself. It was the only way to escape the pain, the torment. But the nightmares are still very real. They’ll never leave me alone. The shadows of solitude follow me wherever I go.
Weapons—they can be anything I need them to be. Unlike people in my life, they are predictable, dependable. Without any effort they can cause so much destruction, but also so much peace. Through the internal chaos, the anger that won’t cease, and the constant noise, everything is silenced with the pull of the trigger.
Ink—I’ve loved it since I can remember. It defines me. It’s my release. When I feel like I’m about to blow I turn to the needle. It is the one high I need. I brand people. It’s what I do. Kross Brannon is the best there is when it comes to tattoos. The success of my company proves it.
But I never teach. Those that work for me learn from someone else. I’m a solo artist. Always have been and always will be…but then I looked up and saw her, standing in my shop, beautiful, tattooed, and her soul screaming for me to reach out. She was a force of nature I couldn’t turn away.
That’s the moment everything started falling into place…
January 15, 2023
"There is something about her that piques my interest, and maybe even reminds me of myself starting out, except for the buried shyness. Shy is something that’s never lived within me."
THIS READ WAS WOW.
Honestly, I didn't read the series' first book, though I feel like I was missing something out since its focus was a different character.
Love and War Volumes one and two were focused on Kross and Delta.
While romance was the focus of the plotline, the storytelling of each character's past childhood, trauma and issues they are going through in the present was well told.
It's not easy, nice, but dark and uncomfortable may cause trauma in others. Some people might be able to relate to the characters as their trauma are very real.
It's a journey of Fross and Delta to find trust, love and a sense of home in a safe space.
Your heart breaks for them, seeing their actions, their reactions to things and the way they're healing.
In the beginning, their relationship seems too soon, complicated and toxic, but over time you learn to understand the things they go through.
I cried, laughed, cried more, learned and was addicted to going through the journey with our characters.
I love the little banter they had with the side characters, and I wish those friendships were explored more for Kross.
"He doesn’t have to say it for me to get what’s being said here. Kross is my new beginning, he’s my do-over, he’s my life of peace, and he’s the path to my forever . . .
THIS READ WAS WOW.
Honestly, I didn't read the series' first book, though I feel like I was missing something out since its focus was a different character.
Love and War Volumes one and two were focused on Kross and Delta.
While romance was the focus of the plotline, the storytelling of each character's past childhood, trauma and issues they are going through in the present was well told.
It's not easy, nice, but dark and uncomfortable may cause trauma in others. Some people might be able to relate to the characters as their trauma are very real.
It's a journey of Fross and Delta to find trust, love and a sense of home in a safe space.
Your heart breaks for them, seeing their actions, their reactions to things and the way they're healing.
In the beginning, their relationship seems too soon, complicated and toxic, but over time you learn to understand the things they go through.
I cried, laughed, cried more, learned and was addicted to going through the journey with our characters.
I love the little banter they had with the side characters, and I wish those friendships were explored more for Kross.
"He doesn’t have to say it for me to get what’s being said here. Kross is my new beginning, he’s my do-over, he’s my life of peace, and he’s the path to my forever . . .
April 7, 2018
4.5 stars!
Wow this story blew me away!! I was hooked on this series from book one and honestly could not get enough of Kaston and Lux. I loved their chemistry and emotions. But my boy Kross takes the cake. I felt his chemistry with Delta come right off the page the minute he met her in that tattoo shop in the first book and honestly could not wait for their book. It was sexy, real and engrossing. I could not put it down!!
What happens when two damaged people meet and form a visceral connection? PURE FIREWORKS, folks!! I loved this book! I thought Delta was sexy and sassy and all of the things we love in heroines. She was the exception to Kross' rules and could bring him to his knees. Likewise I loved Mr. Alpha to the core so much. He was so sexy, dominant and protective. I just loved this story and their chemistry and never wanted it to end! Gahh! And that ending?! Jumping into book two right now!!
While I will say that even though I understood Delta and the reason why she had insecurities, her constant need to be reminded of Kross' interest and attraction to her was a bit draining. I felt frustrated at times because I knew Delta was a strong, confident woman but at times she almost seemed needy and weak. All in all this was a really great book and I look forward to jumping into book two momentarily! Bravo!! 4.5 Stars! ~Ratula
Wow this story blew me away!! I was hooked on this series from book one and honestly could not get enough of Kaston and Lux. I loved their chemistry and emotions. But my boy Kross takes the cake. I felt his chemistry with Delta come right off the page the minute he met her in that tattoo shop in the first book and honestly could not wait for their book. It was sexy, real and engrossing. I could not put it down!!
What happens when two damaged people meet and form a visceral connection? PURE FIREWORKS, folks!! I loved this book! I thought Delta was sexy and sassy and all of the things we love in heroines. She was the exception to Kross' rules and could bring him to his knees. Likewise I loved Mr. Alpha to the core so much. He was so sexy, dominant and protective. I just loved this story and their chemistry and never wanted it to end! Gahh! And that ending?! Jumping into book two right now!!
While I will say that even though I understood Delta and the reason why she had insecurities, her constant need to be reminded of Kross' interest and attraction to her was a bit draining. I felt frustrated at times because I knew Delta was a strong, confident woman but at times she almost seemed needy and weak. All in all this was a really great book and I look forward to jumping into book two momentarily! Bravo!! 4.5 Stars! ~Ratula
February 23, 2018
I have wanted to read about Delta and Kross even before I knew they were going to have a book and when I found out that they were, I was so excited! It’s been a long wait and although I don’t have their full story yet, it was definitely worth the wait. I had no idea what to expect going into Love and War: Volume One because when it’s an author I love and a book I’ve been wanting to read, I don’t always read the synopsis, but even if I had an idea beyond knowing I was in for a good read, I still wouldn’t have been prepared and my expectations still would have been crushed in the best way. Love and War: Volume One was incredible and I couldn’t have loved it more if I tried!
Kross definitely is not your typical hero or even your typical anti-hero — he’s in a class all his own, but I still loved him with all of that. He has his issues, his demons, and his own way of doing things. Kross can be a total jerk at times, he can be cold and closed-off, but there’s a lot more to him underneath the surface. He’s full of depth, he’s sweet when he tries things for Delta and absolutely heartbreaking when he’s vulnerable. Kross is far from perfect, but give him a chance because he’s worth it.
I don’t remember much about Delta from Marked, but I’m sure that I liked her because I loved her in her own book — she just really took the cake for me. She’s a hard worker, she’s very independent and doesn’t believe in handouts, taking the easy way out, or complaining. Delta might have her insecurities, but she’s strong and has her fiery moments along with sweet ones. Delta is just a good soul and I absolutely loved her.
Love and War: Volume One was even better than I was hoping for. It was utterly heartbreaking and heart wrenchingly beautiful. It angered me, made my heart ache, brought tears to my eyes, and put a smile on my face. I was just completely invested in Kross and Delta’s story and wholeheartedly rooting for them to get their happily-ever-after. Love and War: Volume One was so amazing and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Love and War: Volume One is the second book in the Shadows in the Dark series, but it can be read as a standalone. It’s told from Kross and Delta’s POV and while it does end in a cliffhanger, the ending didn’t drive me crazy and I cannot wait to read Love and War: Volume Two!
~ Sonja, 5 Stars
Kross definitely is not your typical hero or even your typical anti-hero — he’s in a class all his own, but I still loved him with all of that. He has his issues, his demons, and his own way of doing things. Kross can be a total jerk at times, he can be cold and closed-off, but there’s a lot more to him underneath the surface. He’s full of depth, he’s sweet when he tries things for Delta and absolutely heartbreaking when he’s vulnerable. Kross is far from perfect, but give him a chance because he’s worth it.
I don’t remember much about Delta from Marked, but I’m sure that I liked her because I loved her in her own book — she just really took the cake for me. She’s a hard worker, she’s very independent and doesn’t believe in handouts, taking the easy way out, or complaining. Delta might have her insecurities, but she’s strong and has her fiery moments along with sweet ones. Delta is just a good soul and I absolutely loved her.
Love and War: Volume One was even better than I was hoping for. It was utterly heartbreaking and heart wrenchingly beautiful. It angered me, made my heart ache, brought tears to my eyes, and put a smile on my face. I was just completely invested in Kross and Delta’s story and wholeheartedly rooting for them to get their happily-ever-after. Love and War: Volume One was so amazing and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Love and War: Volume One is the second book in the Shadows in the Dark series, but it can be read as a standalone. It’s told from Kross and Delta’s POV and while it does end in a cliffhanger, the ending didn’t drive me crazy and I cannot wait to read Love and War: Volume Two!
~ Sonja, 5 Stars
February 25, 2018
I've been waiting so long for this, and when expectations are that high, it's a long way down. I never doubted that this would be a great read, and it was! Book 1 was too good for this story to ever falter, and Charisse Spiers delivers book 2 with a powerful full body punch. By Chapter 2 I was choked up, by 3 I was coveting the good Kleenex (you know, the kind with the Aloe?) and by chapter 4 threw in the towel and succumbed to Delta and Kross's unique and heartbreaking love story. this is a read I had to put down on a couple of occasions because my heart was exploding over and over. I wanted more, but didn't want it to ever end. I don't care that Kross is an Ahole! Your heart breaks for him as his story unravels as much as is did for Lux in book one (which you absolutely have to read first!). Delta showed me a depth I was not expecting. Her friendship with Lux is so important to understanding her. Delta's character has a compassion that is usually over shadowed by anger in other reads, but here it is only threatened by insecurity that she fights at every turn. Good for her! I love that she fights it! The bottom line is, this story, and these characters are dark and damaged, the story is dangerous, and the whole thing is just so beautiful that if there wasn't a volume 2 coming in a couple weeks, I'd probably have to track down the author and let out my Kathy Bates! Thank you Charisse Spires for delivering the goods with an over-the-top sequel that will again, be at the top of my list for a long time.
February 21, 2018
(I received an ARC for a honest review) For the LOVE of everything that is HOLY!!! I have been anticipating this book for awhile now and boy let me tell you, you are going to be put on a WILD roller coaster ride!! Charisse Spiers hits you *literally* in the gut with this book! If this book isn't on your TBR list, it needs to be there ASAP!
Im not all sure where I'm supposed to start bc somewhere along the way I need to pick my jaw up off the floor!! You get a "feel" for Kross and Delta in the 1st book (Marked) but your soul is completely wrapped in a different way after reading this book! I was completely amazed at this book... Sometimes I wasn't sure if I wanted to punch Kross in the throat or crawl into bed with him!! I was locked in to this book during the first chapter and couldn't put it down!!
Charisse Spiers has been 1 of my favorite authors in the "dark romance" genre, and let me tell you, she doesn't disappoint AT ALL!! Do not by pass reading this book! Settle in, savor it a little and enjoy the ride!
I can't wait to figure out what happens in Volume 2... BRING IT ON!!
Im not all sure where I'm supposed to start bc somewhere along the way I need to pick my jaw up off the floor!! You get a "feel" for Kross and Delta in the 1st book (Marked) but your soul is completely wrapped in a different way after reading this book! I was completely amazed at this book... Sometimes I wasn't sure if I wanted to punch Kross in the throat or crawl into bed with him!! I was locked in to this book during the first chapter and couldn't put it down!!
Charisse Spiers has been 1 of my favorite authors in the "dark romance" genre, and let me tell you, she doesn't disappoint AT ALL!! Do not by pass reading this book! Settle in, savor it a little and enjoy the ride!
I can't wait to figure out what happens in Volume 2... BRING IT ON!!
February 19, 2018
Wow I could not put this book down. Marked has been one of my favorite books but this one just jumped right up there. I can not wait for volume 3.
This book was told in Delta and Kross’s POV. Delta loved tattoos and she has always wanted to be a tattoo artist. So she took a chance with a hot tattoo artist Kross. When times got hard and she needed to resort to a time in her life that wasn’t good can she find a way out.
Kross is a tattoo artist. He owns a bunch of studios around the world. He’s quiet and keeps to himself. Never interested in just any woman. Until she sat in his chair. He wanted to make her his. But can he open up and help her by teaching her?
Reviewed for Hot Books & Sassy Girls
Received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was told in Delta and Kross’s POV. Delta loved tattoos and she has always wanted to be a tattoo artist. So she took a chance with a hot tattoo artist Kross. When times got hard and she needed to resort to a time in her life that wasn’t good can she find a way out.
Kross is a tattoo artist. He owns a bunch of studios around the world. He’s quiet and keeps to himself. Never interested in just any woman. Until she sat in his chair. He wanted to make her his. But can he open up and help her by teaching her?
Reviewed for Hot Books & Sassy Girls
Received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2018
Love and War is so good . Kross is hot , moody and dark . A man with alot of issues but what I loved most about him is the man that he turns out to be and you will be swooned by him . Delta and Kross are just meant to be . If you’be been waiting for this book to come out , you wont be disappointed .
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In the rare occurrence that you learn to love, or that someone loves you, protect her at all costs. Slaughter those that stand in the way.
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A must read. Dark romance at its best
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In the rare occurrence that you learn to love, or that someone loves you, protect her at all costs. Slaughter those that stand in the way.
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A must read. Dark romance at its best
February 26, 2018
Amazing couldn't put it down
I couldn't put down this book ...It was amazing ... I have been in a book funk ... I forgot I pre-ordered it since I loved Marked so much ... It showed up on my Kindle... I could not put it down I stayed up so late reading it. HOT! HOT! HOT! Charisse did not disapoint ... Can't wait for Volume 2
I couldn't put down this book ...It was amazing ... I have been in a book funk ... I forgot I pre-ordered it since I loved Marked so much ... It showed up on my Kindle... I could not put it down I stayed up so late reading it. HOT! HOT! HOT! Charisse did not disapoint ... Can't wait for Volume 2
December 23, 2018
My love for this book
Omg this book is everything, I love how the author fonts just me give me word she gives them a meaning and so much more! This book has somehow connected to me in a way I never thought possible, the story, the characters and the ending g what a roller coaster my emotions are all over the place, but such an amazing book al along. Thank you for this book.
Omg this book is everything, I love how the author fonts just me give me word she gives them a meaning and so much more! This book has somehow connected to me in a way I never thought possible, the story, the characters and the ending g what a roller coaster my emotions are all over the place, but such an amazing book al along. Thank you for this book.
Read
February 24, 2018Why do we give one decision the power to determine the course of our lives? Does one bad choice as a child mean we don't deserve love and happiness?
Is there more to Kross Brannon than the ability to give mind blowing, amazing tattoos he gives? Of course there is...he's quiet, demanding, controlling, and the alpha to top all alphas. I absolutely love him.
Delta Rohr is fiercely independent. She is strong, or at least pretends to be (not sure which she is yet), she is loyal to a fault, and when she loves she loves hard.
What is it that draws two people together? Can someone over look the bad choices to find the person you truly are? Or is there there really a fine line between love and hate?
There is just something about this book that blew my favorite books out of the water. I'm not sure if it is the story line alone or the absolutely amazing characters. Not just Kross and Delta, Kaston, Lux, Wesson, Remington, and Johnny, they bring such a depth to the story. In my opinion what makes a good writer is the ability to create characters to life that the readers can literally see interacting together. These characters really bring joy to me. I've learned so much from them...even if it is just to laugh. This story resonates with me so much, there is more to it than just the story Mrs. Spiers wrote. I can't wait for part 2 for the rest of the story, I have a feeling this is just the beginning. I would recommend this book for everyone, yes there are dark parts...but that just makes it better. Nowhere in real everyday life is it all unicorns and rainbows. There has to be darkness to make us appreciate the happy even more. Thank you Mrs. Spiers for reminding me of this.......
Is there more to Kross Brannon than the ability to give mind blowing, amazing tattoos he gives? Of course there is...he's quiet, demanding, controlling, and the alpha to top all alphas. I absolutely love him.
Delta Rohr is fiercely independent. She is strong, or at least pretends to be (not sure which she is yet), she is loyal to a fault, and when she loves she loves hard.
What is it that draws two people together? Can someone over look the bad choices to find the person you truly are? Or is there there really a fine line between love and hate?
There is just something about this book that blew my favorite books out of the water. I'm not sure if it is the story line alone or the absolutely amazing characters. Not just Kross and Delta, Kaston, Lux, Wesson, Remington, and Johnny, they bring such a depth to the story. In my opinion what makes a good writer is the ability to create characters to life that the readers can literally see interacting together. These characters really bring joy to me. I've learned so much from them...even if it is just to laugh. This story resonates with me so much, there is more to it than just the story Mrs. Spiers wrote. I can't wait for part 2 for the rest of the story, I have a feeling this is just the beginning. I would recommend this book for everyone, yes there are dark parts...but that just makes it better. Nowhere in real everyday life is it all unicorns and rainbows. There has to be darkness to make us appreciate the happy even more. Thank you Mrs. Spiers for reminding me of this.......
April 19, 2018
I'm not going to go into a description of this amazing story, because one, I don't want to give anything away, and two, I wouldn't do it justice, so you will just have to settle for my emotional ramblings. Charisse Spiers, with her super talented writing style, has penned a highly original & addictive story that I couldn't get enough, so much so, that I sat in one position until I devoured every last word. And thankfully, I already had the next Volume to devour right after. See, the hero Kross, had a horrible childhood, and now battles a crap ton of demons. He's an huge alpha tattoo artist, who is a damaged man with big demons. Delta, the heroine, also has plenty of demons & is equally damaged. They come face to face when she starts to work in his shop, and they have strong chemistry which is off the charts hot! It ultimately leads to sexy times that lights things on fire, but it's the whole relationship thing that is cause for angst & drama all over the place. A colorful cast of secondaries add more depth to this story, with twists that are f-bomb dropping worthy. Finally, an emotional cliffy ending that had me all kinds of jacked up, and if I didn't already have the next Volume, I would be calling the author all kinds of names. Bottom line, this story had all the elements for the perfect story that I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 7, 2018
This is book 2 of the Shadows in the Dark Series...
WOW! was the first thought in my head when I finished this book. I have been a huge fan of this author for awhile. I know when she releases a book that my heart will not belong to me, but to the amazing story-line & characters in her book until the end. I find myself every time after reading her books they stay with me & I am thinking about what will happen next.
I love the story between Kross & Delta. You can tell from the beginning that this story will have lots of push & pull between the characters. They are both head strong & stubborn characters that love to push each other to their breaking points. The twist & turns their relationship encounters is both beautiful & heart wrenching. Their demons & past creates the explosively torrid love between these two characters.
I love this book & highly recommend it. This amazing story will take you on highly charged emotional roller-coaster ride that you can help but love to be a part of it.
Keep a look out for the next book of this series because this is only the beginning for Kross & Delta. I know I will be stalking! I am so ready to find out what happens next in the story after Delta drops a life changing bombshell on Kross!
Complimentary copy for an honest review
WOW! was the first thought in my head when I finished this book. I have been a huge fan of this author for awhile. I know when she releases a book that my heart will not belong to me, but to the amazing story-line & characters in her book until the end. I find myself every time after reading her books they stay with me & I am thinking about what will happen next.
I love the story between Kross & Delta. You can tell from the beginning that this story will have lots of push & pull between the characters. They are both head strong & stubborn characters that love to push each other to their breaking points. The twist & turns their relationship encounters is both beautiful & heart wrenching. Their demons & past creates the explosively torrid love between these two characters.
I love this book & highly recommend it. This amazing story will take you on highly charged emotional roller-coaster ride that you can help but love to be a part of it.
Keep a look out for the next book of this series because this is only the beginning for Kross & Delta. I know I will be stalking! I am so ready to find out what happens next in the story after Delta drops a life changing bombshell on Kross!
Complimentary copy for an honest review
February 22, 2018
I started reading Love and War with an unknown preconceived expectation that the writing style would be similar to that of the Camera Tale Series…
Ms. Spiers exceeded that expectation and left me mind blown, heart broken, angry, and hating her because I need Volume 2 NOW.
Kross and Delta are two dark souls whose demons resurface from time to time. Their demons do not play well together. One doesn't like to share. One will share. Who will lose?
I cannot wait to get Volume 2 on my Kindle…until then, I am off to read Marked. If you have not yet read it, read it before you read Volume 1.
A few of my favorite lines:
"It may be more dramatic of a story, but happiness lies nowhere in the pages."
"…-I'm just a traveler down a dark road. Those roads are meant to be traveled alone."
"My nerves spark like two wires being touched together with opposite charges."
"Never forget my kiss."
Ms. Spiers exceeded that expectation and left me mind blown, heart broken, angry, and hating her because I need Volume 2 NOW.
Kross and Delta are two dark souls whose demons resurface from time to time. Their demons do not play well together. One doesn't like to share. One will share. Who will lose?
I cannot wait to get Volume 2 on my Kindle…until then, I am off to read Marked. If you have not yet read it, read it before you read Volume 1.
A few of my favorite lines:
"It may be more dramatic of a story, but happiness lies nowhere in the pages."
"…-I'm just a traveler down a dark road. Those roads are meant to be traveled alone."
"My nerves spark like two wires being touched together with opposite charges."
"Never forget my kiss."
July 1, 2018
Kross.... What more can i say?! Holy hell, i hate that it ended! If i did t already have the next book, i probably would have lost my mind!! Kross and Debra’s relationship is hot! Sizzling hot! I couldn’t put this down, but i can never stop reading any of Charisse’s books! The love these two have is out of this world! And the stuff kross does and takes her along with him and she never flinched! She loves him! The end though... It got me! Definitely one you need to buy the next one as well or you’ll go crazy!!! 🖤🖤
March 7, 2018
Hold on!! Wait!! What just happened here!!
This is definitely one of the darker stories I have read this year and I absolutely love it! I couldn't put it down! I couldn't get enough of it! I need book two in my life ASAP! Kross is the very definition of hot, broody, and alpha! Delta and Kross are perfect for one another! There couldn't be a better written hero and heroine in my opinion that mesh so well together!
This is definitely one of the darker stories I have read this year and I absolutely love it! I couldn't put it down! I couldn't get enough of it! I need book two in my life ASAP! Kross is the very definition of hot, broody, and alpha! Delta and Kross are perfect for one another! There couldn't be a better written hero and heroine in my opinion that mesh so well together!
April 18, 2018
I thought Lux and Kaston’s story / relationship was epic but Delta and Kross, OMG there are no words…this story blew my mind! The chemistry between Delta and Kross is off-the-charts and they couldn’t be more perfect for each other. Delta who never felt loved and Kross who never felt wanted, fill a void in one another and help to heal past hurts. Kross who is the epitome of an alpha male takes protectiveness and overbearing to the next level and let me say that it’s hot hot hot! This story is an emotional roller coaster, has just the right amount of darkness, suspense, sexy scenes, great storyline and awesome characters. Ends in a major cliffy!
February 15, 2018
This is her best book yet!! I can’t tell you how much I heart Kross Brannon. He may be the ultimate Book boyfriend for me—if he doesn’t destroy my heart first.
Love and War is so good. Marked has been my favorite of Charisse’s until now. I knew several years ago, when she first started this book he was going to win my heart. And she did not disappoint.
I NEED part 2 with a drug addict needs their next fix. This book is crack. And I’m dying to know how Kross and Delta get to the end. I already know most—I got the inside on that shit—but I need to read it. I need to feel it.
Love and War is so good. Marked has been my favorite of Charisse’s until now. I knew several years ago, when she first started this book he was going to win my heart. And she did not disappoint.
I NEED part 2 with a drug addict needs their next fix. This book is crack. And I’m dying to know how Kross and Delta get to the end. I already know most—I got the inside on that shit—but I need to read it. I need to feel it.
March 7, 2018
*An ARC was provided in exchange of an honest review*
Holy wow!! We get Delta & Kross’s Story in this book and can I just say HOOKED! Be prepared for a read that gives you angst and all the fees because that exactly what you will be getting with this one and trust when I say that you will love every second of it!! Looking forward to the next book!!!
A total MUST-READ!!!
Holy wow!! We get Delta & Kross’s Story in this book and can I just say HOOKED! Be prepared for a read that gives you angst and all the fees because that exactly what you will be getting with this one and trust when I say that you will love every second of it!! Looking forward to the next book!!!
A total MUST-READ!!!
April 18, 2018
Wow, I have been blown away by this story! Delta is a sassy and feisty female, and Kross is a dominant and protective alpha. Kross lives by his own set of rules, and Delta is the exception to the rule when she slips underneath his radar. These two are both broken souls, who have explosive chemistry between them. This is a well written storyline, which flows seamlessly, and is a dark, gritty, and crazy rollercoaster ride which had me captivated and intrigued throughout. I cannot wait to read the next book in this phenomenal series, and I recommend this authors work for all readers.
April 9, 2018
Delta Rohr is my favorite person
Reading Marked which is Kaston Cox & Lux Larson’s story, we are introduced to Delta Rohr, Lux’s best friend. Love & War continues with Delta & Kross Brannon and where Marked left off. Knowing how Delta & Kross meet provides imperative knowledge on how these two characters interact. My heart bleeds for the abusive history regarding both characters as we find out the reason these two are the way they are. But I find myself loving Delta more. Her craving for love and acceptance toward Kross (her main crush and love), knowing full well the demons he fights, it seems her patience and sensitivity are only making her hurt even more. Especially when it comes to his hurtful words. But is he worth a life of someone else.
I must admit I was weepy toward the end. Being a mother myself, I felt very passionate about the health, welfare & safety of a child. How those sick & disturbed would abuse in any form a child biological or not is obscene and not worthy to be called a parent and should not be able to breed. I have no tolerance.
Reading Marked which is Kaston Cox & Lux Larson’s story, we are introduced to Delta Rohr, Lux’s best friend. Love & War continues with Delta & Kross Brannon and where Marked left off. Knowing how Delta & Kross meet provides imperative knowledge on how these two characters interact. My heart bleeds for the abusive history regarding both characters as we find out the reason these two are the way they are. But I find myself loving Delta more. Her craving for love and acceptance toward Kross (her main crush and love), knowing full well the demons he fights, it seems her patience and sensitivity are only making her hurt even more. Especially when it comes to his hurtful words. But is he worth a life of someone else.
I must admit I was weepy toward the end. Being a mother myself, I felt very passionate about the health, welfare & safety of a child. How those sick & disturbed would abuse in any form a child biological or not is obscene and not worthy to be called a parent and should not be able to breed. I have no tolerance.
February 23, 2018
Omg I didn’t know it was a cliffhanger! Thank god the next book is out in a couple of weeks. Anxious to see what happens. Loved this book
March 2, 2018
Amazing!!
What!!!!! You did not leave me hanging like that 😭
Kross is definitely a dark alpha male that gets what he wants, everyone is scared of and he keeps to himself.
Delta is just as dark as Kross but is looking for the love to fill the void she has from growing up.
Can’t wait for book two!!
What!!!!! You did not leave me hanging like that 😭
Kross is definitely a dark alpha male that gets what he wants, everyone is scared of and he keeps to himself.
Delta is just as dark as Kross but is looking for the love to fill the void she has from growing up.
Can’t wait for book two!!
April 7, 2018
4.5 Stars! Full Blog Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 21, 2021
Oh man. I don't even know where to start. This book was all over the place. I'm not actually sure I can write a proper review. I skimmed over half the book, lol. Oh well, I'll note my main issues with the book.
Problem #1: Almost the entire book was telling and not showing. That's it. No further explanation.
Problem #2: The h and H had no chemistry, whatsoever. There was an insta-lust dynamic right from the get-go. They wanted each other in the prologue. The prologue! Readers don't even know who they are as individuals at that point (keep this thought in your head for a moment)! No mystery. No build-up. No tension. I was done with the two by chapter one. Totally over hearing the h pine over someone I didn't know. If someone were to ask me why they liked each other, the best answer I could give would be a shrug. Back to that thought: was I supposed to read book 1? was there some amazing interaction I missed in it? To be fair, I was under the impression book 2 and 3 could be read apart from book 1.
Problem #3: Related to #2, the h and H had a toxic relationship. Let me say it louder, figuratively speaking, for those in the back. THEY HAD A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP. It wasn't a "you are the other half of my soul" type of relationship. It was a "you are my property so I will do with you as I please." Chapter 21: throw that whole chapter away, lol.
Here were some of my favorite lines from the H:
“You want to live like a whore you get treated like one. Respect is earned, and not just in my shop.”
“I’ll fucking kill you before I let someone else have you.”
“Oh, I don’t know, maybe that any girl who can ride me like a damn whore, make me come more than once in a two-hour period, and suck my cock like I’ve never experienced usually is one."
“Well I assumed if you were whoring around at a strip club you were protecting yourself from a bastard like me.”
Problem #4: Again, related to #2 and #3, the h and H were toxic and juvenile characters. I should have highlighted more interactions to solidify my point. Oops. They couldn't communicate or solve their problems like normal people. Granted, they weren't normal people, but come on there has to be a limit to petulant behaviors at some point. And everyone was a whore in this book. Even the dust pile in the corner of the tattoo parlor. Lol...
Problem #5: THE CONSTANT, POINTLESS INNER MONOLOGUE THAT ADDED NOTHING TO THE STORY. Yep, that's it.
I think I had another point to make, but I've lost my momentum. I didn't care about their pasts. Whatever. I've read their history a million times in other books. I won't be reading their second book. I actually liked where it ended, with the h at the end of the book. It was the only smart decision she ever made and the only time I liked her.
The only bit of the h's redundant inner monologue that made me root for her: "One day I woke up and realized life is too short for misery. That I was worth more. I am more. We all just want to love someone in the end. And even more, we want to be loved. I’m tired of giving love and not getting it in return. This is me believing that I’m more. I made a choice."
P.S. The note I made on page 6: "All I've read is the prologue and already I'm feeling like this will either end in a DNF or 1-star read. Like, what is going on. Insta-lust 🤦🏻♀"
Problem #1: Almost the entire book was telling and not showing. That's it. No further explanation.
Problem #2: The h and H had no chemistry, whatsoever. There was an insta-lust dynamic right from the get-go. They wanted each other in the prologue. The prologue! Readers don't even know who they are as individuals at that point (keep this thought in your head for a moment)! No mystery. No build-up. No tension. I was done with the two by chapter one. Totally over hearing the h pine over someone I didn't know. If someone were to ask me why they liked each other, the best answer I could give would be a shrug. Back to that thought: was I supposed to read book 1? was there some amazing interaction I missed in it? To be fair, I was under the impression book 2 and 3 could be read apart from book 1.
Problem #3: Related to #2, the h and H had a toxic relationship. Let me say it louder, figuratively speaking, for those in the back. THEY HAD A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP. It wasn't a "you are the other half of my soul" type of relationship. It was a "you are my property so I will do with you as I please." Chapter 21: throw that whole chapter away, lol.
Here were some of my favorite lines from the H:
“You want to live like a whore you get treated like one. Respect is earned, and not just in my shop.”
“I’ll fucking kill you before I let someone else have you.”
“Oh, I don’t know, maybe that any girl who can ride me like a damn whore, make me come more than once in a two-hour period, and suck my cock like I’ve never experienced usually is one."
“Well I assumed if you were whoring around at a strip club you were protecting yourself from a bastard like me.”
Problem #4: Again, related to #2 and #3, the h and H were toxic and juvenile characters. I should have highlighted more interactions to solidify my point. Oops. They couldn't communicate or solve their problems like normal people. Granted, they weren't normal people, but come on there has to be a limit to petulant behaviors at some point. And everyone was a whore in this book. Even the dust pile in the corner of the tattoo parlor. Lol...
Problem #5: THE CONSTANT, POINTLESS INNER MONOLOGUE THAT ADDED NOTHING TO THE STORY. Yep, that's it.
I think I had another point to make, but I've lost my momentum. I didn't care about their pasts. Whatever. I've read their history a million times in other books. I won't be reading their second book. I actually liked where it ended, with the h at the end of the book. It was the only smart decision she ever made and the only time I liked her.
The only bit of the h's redundant inner monologue that made me root for her: "One day I woke up and realized life is too short for misery. That I was worth more. I am more. We all just want to love someone in the end. And even more, we want to be loved. I’m tired of giving love and not getting it in return. This is me believing that I’m more. I made a choice."
P.S. The note I made on page 6: "All I've read is the prologue and already I'm feeling like this will either end in a DNF or 1-star read. Like, what is going on. Insta-lust 🤦🏻♀"
August 16, 2018
Wow, I haven’t got words to describe how this book made me feel. Talk about a mean messed up a***hole that you can’t help but want to heal and love.
I had no expectations for this book and I was still surprised at every turn, talk about two damaged souls dealing with their abuse in such different ways. Charisse describes Delta and Kross so closely that not only do you feel you know them personally but on some level you can empathise and relate to what they are going through. Charisse talks about topics most people want to avoid, but there is a truth to her writing that makes you sit up and realise that at one point in time you know someone who’s gone through something similar or you yourself have experienced, if not all, at an aspect of what this book encompasses. Such a stark reality, written clear as day makes this book more emotional than others, the way Charisse writes such realness in her books makes this story unique and memorable.
Delta and Kross navigate a new world with each other and with newness comes struggles, sometimes you want to throttle them and at others you want to squeal from the rooftops. This book is all about baby steps and seeing each stage for what it is, as progress, working through the demons they hold.
There are a lot of questions still left unanswered some of which make you bite your nails in fear for the ending, one that isn’t set in stone, that is unpredictable but in the end is inevitable. Only time will tell, can Kross and Delta work through their insecurities to find happiness with one another.
"Read on Behalf of Books After Fifty"
I had no expectations for this book and I was still surprised at every turn, talk about two damaged souls dealing with their abuse in such different ways. Charisse describes Delta and Kross so closely that not only do you feel you know them personally but on some level you can empathise and relate to what they are going through. Charisse talks about topics most people want to avoid, but there is a truth to her writing that makes you sit up and realise that at one point in time you know someone who’s gone through something similar or you yourself have experienced, if not all, at an aspect of what this book encompasses. Such a stark reality, written clear as day makes this book more emotional than others, the way Charisse writes such realness in her books makes this story unique and memorable.
Delta and Kross navigate a new world with each other and with newness comes struggles, sometimes you want to throttle them and at others you want to squeal from the rooftops. This book is all about baby steps and seeing each stage for what it is, as progress, working through the demons they hold.
There are a lot of questions still left unanswered some of which make you bite your nails in fear for the ending, one that isn’t set in stone, that is unpredictable but in the end is inevitable. Only time will tell, can Kross and Delta work through their insecurities to find happiness with one another.
"Read on Behalf of Books After Fifty"
February 14, 2019
I was really hoping I'd like Delta & Kross' story more than Lux & Kaston but I really didn't care for it. Their story just isn't doing much for me.
He's mentally and emotionally fucked up. And she's an immature, needy, insecure mess. I know that this series deals with a lot of trigger issues and darker issues, which normally I can deal with. But when consent isn't given, I don't care what the situation is, it's called rape! And that's exactly what Kross does when he finds Delta stripping, he pretty much rapes her in the dressing room. And without protection. Ironic, considering he explains to her later on that what Chuck did to her when she was younger is considered rape. The relationship between these 2 is toxic and kind of gross. He's a heartless, brute and she has no self respect so they take advantage of eachother that way. And wtf is the deal with taking her with him to do his illegal side deals? Are you kidding me with that?
And I need to add that I cannot stand careless, stupid grown ass females having unprotected sex with someone they barely know. WTF do you think is gonna happen?! And of course that shit does. This is just an abusive fuckfest of a story.
And because it ends on a fucking cliffhanger, I have to read the next one. FML!
He's mentally and emotionally fucked up. And she's an immature, needy, insecure mess. I know that this series deals with a lot of trigger issues and darker issues, which normally I can deal with. But when consent isn't given, I don't care what the situation is, it's called rape! And that's exactly what Kross does when he finds Delta stripping, he pretty much rapes her in the dressing room. And without protection. Ironic, considering he explains to her later on that what Chuck did to her when she was younger is considered rape. The relationship between these 2 is toxic and kind of gross. He's a heartless, brute and she has no self respect so they take advantage of eachother that way. And wtf is the deal with taking her with him to do his illegal side deals? Are you kidding me with that?
And I need to add that I cannot stand careless, stupid grown ass females having unprotected sex with someone they barely know. WTF do you think is gonna happen?! And of course that shit does. This is just an abusive fuckfest of a story.
And because it ends on a fucking cliffhanger, I have to read the next one. FML!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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