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Steel Demons MC #8
Ruthless
We're stronger together. But are we strong enough?
The war is here, and it’s taking a toll on everyone I love. Now that my family is back together, we’re relying on each other more than ever. As a whole, we’re unstoppable. But Reaper and I continue to struggle. This war only adds stress to our already fragile relationship, and I’m not sure we’ll survive it.
A victory comes hard-earned when a crucial ally gets captured by the enemy. His life is on the line, and rescuing him is an impossible task. My husbands want blood, but the leaders of Four Corners must play a deadly game of politics to get this man back alive and maintain the upper hand in this war.
The time for negotiating peace has long passed. Our enemies tried to turn us against each other. Now, they kidnap our friends and mock us. They want a reaction? We’ll give them one, but it’ll be on our terms.
It’s time to be ruthless.
Sons of Anarchy meets The Handmaid's Tale in this dystopian reverse harem adventure! Ruthless is the eighth book in the Steel Demons MC saga. This series is full of kindle-melting steam and dangerous men who take what they want. Proceed with caution if easily offended.
The war is here, and it’s taking a toll on everyone I love. Now that my family is back together, we’re relying on each other more than ever. As a whole, we’re unstoppable. But Reaper and I continue to struggle. This war only adds stress to our already fragile relationship, and I’m not sure we’ll survive it.
A victory comes hard-earned when a crucial ally gets captured by the enemy. His life is on the line, and rescuing him is an impossible task. My husbands want blood, but the leaders of Four Corners must play a deadly game of politics to get this man back alive and maintain the upper hand in this war.
The time for negotiating peace has long passed. Our enemies tried to turn us against each other. Now, they kidnap our friends and mock us. They want a reaction? We’ll give them one, but it’ll be on our terms.
It’s time to be ruthless.
Sons of Anarchy meets The Handmaid's Tale in this dystopian reverse harem adventure! Ruthless is the eighth book in the Steel Demons MC saga. This series is full of kindle-melting steam and dangerous men who take what they want. Proceed with caution if easily offended.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2021
764 people are currently reading
1056 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
June 4, 2021
My heart hurts right now. I just finished and I'm just a little freaked out because it's almost over. There is literally only one more book until they are done.
I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers. I love them when they are done a certain way... This is good. Nothing too crazy, yet. Right?!
Okay, so I finished Ruthless an hour ago. I read it as soon as I got it. I didn't take too many breaks. I literally was hanging onto every darn word. It's amazing. It's crazy. It's WAR. Bad stuff is happening all over the place. We had some near misses. Then more bad stuff.
But we had some sexy times too. And Reaper's still in the dog house. I get why he's there, but damn Mari! Let him out. Please. You gotta after this. I mean, ya know, well, assuming... okay. I'm gonna stop right there because my anxiety can't handle where my brain is trying to go.
We saw our little Freyja going around healing folks. We had Hades have Reaper reap someone. Horus was being Horus.
And Shadow... I just love Shadow. He's adorable sometimes for a big, burly, sexy as sin biker. I REALLY WANT TO SEE THE TATTOOS HE DOES FOR MARI.
I really miss what Reaper and Mari had. I need that back. I know it's going to happen. Eventually, but I hate waiting, even though I totally get why. He has to understand so he doesn't repeat same mistakes. But he's being so good! I did kinda wanna smack Mari for flinching after he reaped. I wanted to smack Reaper for thinking he could really kill Shadow back when that happened. I just can't deal with more drama though. Too much bad and not enough good is killing me.
I love these characters and their story. I've been addicted since the first book. It comes out in a week, ya'll.
Get started on your rereads or your first reads because this series is SERIOUSLY one of the best RH series out there.
Especially if you like the MC angle. Especially if you like a good old dystopian setting. If you like gods and goddesses and relationships with well developed characters and storylines and plots. If you like all that is PERFECT about RH, without the darkness... okay maybe a little darkness, but this is light and happy compared to what I usually read. You know what I'm saying here. I'm not even joking. I definitely highly recommend this series.
READ THIS SERIES. There's only one book left after this. I'm going to go cry now.
I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers. I love them when they are done a certain way... This is good. Nothing too crazy, yet. Right?!
Okay, so I finished Ruthless an hour ago. I read it as soon as I got it. I didn't take too many breaks. I literally was hanging onto every darn word. It's amazing. It's crazy. It's WAR. Bad stuff is happening all over the place. We had some near misses. Then more bad stuff.
But we had some sexy times too. And Reaper's still in the dog house. I get why he's there, but damn Mari! Let him out. Please. You gotta after this. I mean, ya know, well, assuming... okay. I'm gonna stop right there because my anxiety can't handle where my brain is trying to go.
We saw our little Freyja going around healing folks. We had Hades have Reaper reap someone. Horus was being Horus.
And Shadow... I just love Shadow. He's adorable sometimes for a big, burly, sexy as sin biker. I REALLY WANT TO SEE THE TATTOOS HE DOES FOR MARI.
I really miss what Reaper and Mari had. I need that back. I know it's going to happen. Eventually, but I hate waiting, even though I totally get why. He has to understand so he doesn't repeat same mistakes. But he's being so good! I did kinda wanna smack Mari for flinching after he reaped. I wanted to smack Reaper for thinking he could really kill Shadow back when that happened. I just can't deal with more drama though. Too much bad and not enough good is killing me.
I love these characters and their story. I've been addicted since the first book. It comes out in a week, ya'll.
Get started on your rereads or your first reads because this series is SERIOUSLY one of the best RH series out there.
Especially if you like the MC angle. Especially if you like a good old dystopian setting. If you like gods and goddesses and relationships with well developed characters and storylines and plots. If you like all that is PERFECT about RH, without the darkness... okay maybe a little darkness, but this is light and happy compared to what I usually read. You know what I'm saying here. I'm not even joking. I definitely highly recommend this series.
READ THIS SERIES. There's only one book left after this. I'm going to go cry now.
March 4, 2022
Mariposa's stupid attitude with Reaper spoiled my reading of this book. She already pissed me off in the previous one, but in this one I would have wanted to punch her.
December 19, 2021
3.5 Meh, this is not the last book of the series...
Ok, I admit, the -0.5 stars is out of frustration on myself for not paying attention and reading a series before it was out completely.
Oh well, anyway. It's still a series worth reading. It's fun and fast-paced. No idea how long the books were, but they flew by really fast. I enjoyed the characters, overall, and the plot was interesting. Even the world-builder was decent.
So, it's a series that's worth a try.
Ok, I admit, the -0.5 stars is out of frustration on myself for not paying attention and reading a series before it was out completely.
Oh well, anyway. It's still a series worth reading. It's fun and fast-paced. No idea how long the books were, but they flew by really fast. I enjoyed the characters, overall, and the plot was interesting. Even the world-builder was decent.
So, it's a series that's worth a try.
June 9, 2022
4.7 stars.
Fuuuuck.
This thing with Reaper and Mari is really sad and I’m over it. I just want them to make up already dammit.
And unfortunately, with an ending like that, they can’t.
This was a fucking rollercoaster of emotions.
I’ve been crying off and on for the last couple books and I just want them to be safe and happy goddamnit.
But, miracle of all miracles, I’m still excited to see how they get to that. After 8 fucking harrowing books, no less.
I am gonna take a tiny break to read something else before finishing the last two books though. I just need something different after so many days of reading this series non stop. I Will be finishing it though, unlike many other series I’ve said that about.
I have to.
Things are too intense to just leave them where they are.
Fuuuuck.
This thing with Reaper and Mari is really sad and I’m over it. I just want them to make up already dammit.
And unfortunately, with an ending like that, they can’t.
This was a fucking rollercoaster of emotions.
I’ve been crying off and on for the last couple books and I just want them to be safe and happy goddamnit.
But, miracle of all miracles, I’m still excited to see how they get to that. After 8 fucking harrowing books, no less.
I am gonna take a tiny break to read something else before finishing the last two books though. I just need something different after so many days of reading this series non stop. I Will be finishing it though, unlike many other series I’ve said that about.
I have to.
Things are too intense to just leave them where they are.
July 28, 2021
At the end of the day, we’re a pack of outlaws who found ourselves a queen.I have loved this series, watching the characters grow and develop over time has been so fun...but I’m getting tired of the constant war and drama. I’m tired of Mariposa fighting with Reaper. I want them to all go on vacation. Find a beach somewhere and rub oil all over each other and be happy.
Is that too much to ask for in a biker, dystopian, post-apocalyptic, reverse harem, gods-battling-it-out-war, fantasy romance?
December 16, 2022
Mary ruined this book for me. I’ve come this far so I’m vested but this girl went from someone I enjoyed learning about her journey/story to someone I want to throttle 🙄🤦🏽♀️… pray for me going into this last book. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
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June 1, 2021I really, really enjoy this series. I started it back in February and binged 1-6 in a few day and was HORRIFIED that 7-9 weren’t out yet (I rarely read incomplete series). To me, this book is best read as a binge of the series. The storylines run together though multiple books so looking back on books 1-6 I’m not sure what plotlines happened when.
If you enjoy Sons of Anarchy, Handmaids Tale, American Gods, or dystopian books - you should definitely give this series a try. The premise and set up is so unique and the slow reveal of Hades, Freya, Horace as more than “just pets” is so good.
I think before the final book comes out, I’m going to do a full binge of the series to refresh my memory because a lot has changed since book 1, when I thought we were just going to follow Mari and the guys in life on their compound. A lot of this book, Ruthless, had to do with battles, which isn’t something I love reading about (the last book in the Throne of Glass series had some passages I felt “meh” about because it was so heavily focused on war).
To me, this book works with the SERIES as a whole. Does it stand up on its own? I’m not sure, just because it’s SO ENGRAINED in what came before it, if that makes sense. Unlike the RH Their Vampire Queen by Joely Sue Burkhart where the plot concludes at the end of each book, most of these books end in cliffhangers or have overlapping plots. You can’t just pick up this book unless you commit to reading 1-7 first. So I’m going to hide the rest of my review for spoilers for people who haven’t started the series.
If you enjoy Sons of Anarchy, Handmaids Tale, American Gods, or dystopian books - you should definitely give this series a try. The premise and set up is so unique and the slow reveal of Hades, Freya, Horace as more than “just pets” is so good.
I think before the final book comes out, I’m going to do a full binge of the series to refresh my memory because a lot has changed since book 1, when I thought we were just going to follow Mari and the guys in life on their compound. A lot of this book, Ruthless, had to do with battles, which isn’t something I love reading about (the last book in the Throne of Glass series had some passages I felt “meh” about because it was so heavily focused on war).
To me, this book works with the SERIES as a whole. Does it stand up on its own? I’m not sure, just because it’s SO ENGRAINED in what came before it, if that makes sense. Unlike the RH Their Vampire Queen by Joely Sue Burkhart where the plot concludes at the end of each book, most of these books end in cliffhangers or have overlapping plots. You can’t just pick up this book unless you commit to reading 1-7 first. So I’m going to hide the rest of my review for spoilers for people who haven’t started the series.
June 27, 2021
Arghh
Arghh way to long to wait for the next book !!! Loved this one !! ❤❤❤❤🔥🔥 I will wait patiently....who am I kidding I need this book now !
Arghh way to long to wait for the next book !!! Loved this one !! ❤❤❤❤🔥🔥 I will wait patiently....who am I kidding I need this book now !
June 3, 2021
Why, Crustal? Whhhhhy? Why must you rip out our hearts and stomp them on them? There. I’m better now. This was so flipping good, but that cliffy? Whoa. Watch that last step. It’s a doozy. Shadow is home where he belongs. Gunner has been forgiven. And Jandro is always a good boy. There’s still so much tension between Reaper and Mari... which I get... but... man! My heart aches for them. Lots of action and battles in this one. Some good... some not so good... and then all Hell broke lose and the last battle took us straight to Fuckedville. It’s not good, kids. Bring on the finale!!! 💜
June 5, 2021
Wow, this was such a disappointment from the rest of the series. The flow was super slow, I wanted to quit reading & DNF at least 6-8 times (probably more than that) thru the book. I kept checking how far I was & groaning at how much was left. I thought I’d never get past the 1/2 way point. I really had to force myself to continue reading, & the only reason I would even do that is because this is the 8th book into the series, with supposedly one book left. I was torn that I’ve read so much of the series that I should finish out the series. I’ve never quit series so far in before! But at this point, I’m not sure I want to read the last book, there’s no longer appeal for me to do so. This left me frustrated & angry that I wasted so much time reading this series in the first place.
A lot of “nothing” happens in this book. It felt very stagnant, with a lot of rehash of the Reaper/Mari relationship issues without a resolution only on Mari’s part, with the earlier warfare that seems to not be all that exciting, too many details or stuff that doesn’t help the plot move forward, until the last 20%. Then another Cliff-hanger. Three of the 5 main characters (Mari, Shadow, & Reaper) don’t even feel like the same characters that were in the first 6 books. They started changing in a wonky sort of evolution in book 7, to being unrecognizable in this book (8). It wasn’t an natural feeling to the change like they were evolving in the RH relationship or due to the wars, but a writer’s forced change trying to create something different to the plot that essentially mucked up things -IMO. And to top it off, Mari is such a b!tch to Reaper in this book (not that Reaper wasn’t in the wrong, just her reactions were too extreme), that really lost my interest in the story. She hadn’t been so shallow in the previous 7 books. Not sure I will read book 9 at this point.
A lot of “nothing” happens in this book. It felt very stagnant, with a lot of rehash of the Reaper/Mari relationship issues without a resolution only on Mari’s part, with the earlier warfare that seems to not be all that exciting, too many details or stuff that doesn’t help the plot move forward, until the last 20%. Then another Cliff-hanger. Three of the 5 main characters (Mari, Shadow, & Reaper) don’t even feel like the same characters that were in the first 6 books. They started changing in a wonky sort of evolution in book 7, to being unrecognizable in this book (8). It wasn’t an natural feeling to the change like they were evolving in the RH relationship or due to the wars, but a writer’s forced change trying to create something different to the plot that essentially mucked up things -IMO. And to top it off, Mari is such a b!tch to Reaper in this book (not that Reaper wasn’t in the wrong, just her reactions were too extreme), that really lost my interest in the story. She hadn’t been so shallow in the previous 7 books. Not sure I will read book 9 at this point.
July 9, 2021
So tired of Mari being a witch to Reaper
From book one I was hooked on this series. I believe at first it was supposed to be 5 books?... Then somewhere it went to 8 but the final count is 9. The story has tons of action, twists and turns along with the supernatural aspect of the Gods talking to them through their animals. Definitely a great mix to keep you interested and entertained but gosh darn it..... I am so sick of Mari treating Reaper like crap. *** Wee Spoiler in the next sentence.... When Reaper had her in the tub and Mari got off but the left Reaper hanging... Omg. I wanted to smack her. Living in a world that has no promise of tomorrow, she is going to continuously make Reaper suffer? Sorry but I hope he finds a women that will love him as fiercely as he deserves. I had to thrown my phone on the couch after that tub scene because she was such a little tease and a jerk.
Ok. Yes....this was an extra long review with a rant but this aspect is just killing these stories for me. Mari's character has drug this out way too long and now has taken it to a deeper despicable level. Yep. I am sick of Mari. I really hope Reaper finds someone better - someone that knows forgiveness is part of loving someone, especially in a world where the day your living may be your last. ( Mari's character is the only reason I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5)
From book one I was hooked on this series. I believe at first it was supposed to be 5 books?... Then somewhere it went to 8 but the final count is 9. The story has tons of action, twists and turns along with the supernatural aspect of the Gods talking to them through their animals. Definitely a great mix to keep you interested and entertained but gosh darn it..... I am so sick of Mari treating Reaper like crap. *** Wee Spoiler in the next sentence.... When Reaper had her in the tub and Mari got off but the left Reaper hanging... Omg. I wanted to smack her. Living in a world that has no promise of tomorrow, she is going to continuously make Reaper suffer? Sorry but I hope he finds a women that will love him as fiercely as he deserves. I had to thrown my phone on the couch after that tub scene because she was such a little tease and a jerk.
Ok. Yes....this was an extra long review with a rant but this aspect is just killing these stories for me. Mari's character has drug this out way too long and now has taken it to a deeper despicable level. Yep. I am sick of Mari. I really hope Reaper finds someone better - someone that knows forgiveness is part of loving someone, especially in a world where the day your living may be your last. ( Mari's character is the only reason I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5)
July 16, 2023
DNF - I just can’t…
I loved the first books! I just started this one, and I can’t keep reading. The spice scenes are all the same + they feel endless. I feel like Mari and Jandro just have sex - there’s been no deepening to their relationship since the incident with Shadow. And omg the drama STILL with Reaper.
I just looked at reviews for the final book, and that told me all I needed to know.
The first 6 books - great! But I’m over it now. I’ll read the final novella, maybe, and I’ll definitely read the one about Sons of Odin.
I’m just sad. I was loving this series, but like others, it felt like Reaper changed but Mari couldn’t. It was almost spiteful how she acted towards him. Her character started to become too much “main character syndrome” for me 😕
I loved the first books! I just started this one, and I can’t keep reading. The spice scenes are all the same + they feel endless. I feel like Mari and Jandro just have sex - there’s been no deepening to their relationship since the incident with Shadow. And omg the drama STILL with Reaper.
I just looked at reviews for the final book, and that told me all I needed to know.
The first 6 books - great! But I’m over it now. I’ll read the final novella, maybe, and I’ll definitely read the one about Sons of Odin.
I’m just sad. I was loving this series, but like others, it felt like Reaper changed but Mari couldn’t. It was almost spiteful how she acted towards him. Her character started to become too much “main character syndrome” for me 😕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2022
3 stars. Considering this is the second to last book in the series, there should have been more development on the war front in this book. There's still too much mystery surrounding the primary antagonist and the gods. To try to uncover all of this and more in the next book ... I can only imagine how it'll turn out pacing-wise. Aside from that it was an ok read compared to the previous books. I enjoyed the side stories, though one of those did drag on too much for me towards the end.
June 4, 2021
✳️✳️ONE EXTRAORDINARY CONTINUATION✳️✳️
Holy hotsauce homer! Crystal unleashes this bad boy chocked-full of all the thrilling chills, spills and extreme feels, serving up one heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, nerve-racking, rock-my-world tsunami, blasting this hot little treat into a tailspin with mind-blowing revelations, propelling this baby to unbelievable heights. Rushing head-long into a horrifying nightmare of epic proportions, noting the overwhelming odds brimming with gripping drama, nailbiting intrigue, underlying currents, brutal tactics, callous attrocities, spinning danger, spine tingling suspense and gut-clenching encounters, cognizant of the perilous twists and shocking turns unfolding, swapping hats and busting down walls, launching this baby to life spectacularly. The characters interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming into amazing personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Fabulous job Crystal, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
Holy hotsauce homer! Crystal unleashes this bad boy chocked-full of all the thrilling chills, spills and extreme feels, serving up one heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, nerve-racking, rock-my-world tsunami, blasting this hot little treat into a tailspin with mind-blowing revelations, propelling this baby to unbelievable heights. Rushing head-long into a horrifying nightmare of epic proportions, noting the overwhelming odds brimming with gripping drama, nailbiting intrigue, underlying currents, brutal tactics, callous attrocities, spinning danger, spine tingling suspense and gut-clenching encounters, cognizant of the perilous twists and shocking turns unfolding, swapping hats and busting down walls, launching this baby to life spectacularly. The characters interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming into amazing personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Fabulous job Crystal, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
June 4, 2021
Oh that ending..... stayed up all night reading this one. Wow what a story. This is book 8 of the steel Demon MC series. Yes read in order. Crystal Ash really has a way of drawing you into a story. Like I’m hooked on this series. I won’t give away any spoilers. Love the characters. Like love love. I seriously need the next book. Like badly. Definitely recommend.
September 11, 2021
It just keeps getting worse.
Unfortunately I’m one of those people who has to know how a book/series turns out once I get to a certain point…. And I hate myself so much for it 😒😒😒
I’ve been struggling through this series since book 4, the last two books were the worst… like it’s actually putting me in a bad mood because of how bad they are.
I know you’re saying
*well it’s your fault for continuing to read them* and you’re absolutely right. I have no one to blame but myself….
And well Mari because she’s the WORST FMC IVE EVER READ IN MY LIFE‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
I read over 350 books last year….
I’m at 224 this year and I’m not exaggerating when I say Mari is the WORST character I’ve ever read in my life. I’m genuinely confused as to how this series has such good ratings. I honestly want to contact these 5 star ratings so they can convince me I’m wrong because I’m mindblown how horrible Mari is for this series.
Everything I’ve ever heard about these books was about this bada** fmc and hot biker dudes…
Could not be more wrong… well the biker dudes are actually hot and the only thing helping this painful situation.
Mari thinks she’s so valuable and she’s NOT. Yeah cool… we get it… you’re a medic.. that’s admirable… but it doesn’t compensate for how weak she is and EVERY OTHER aspect!!!
She walks around beating her chest (metaphorically) about how she knows so much about everything medical and then turns around and does something that’s (medically) hazardous to her health….
This scene for example.. a medical tent is attacked and here’s how she reacts 👇🏼👇🏼
*no spoilers other than knowing a tent gets attacked 😒*
“The doctor’s arms banded around me, pulling me back once he realized I fully intended to run into that tent, which had now collapsed into a wide circle of flames. The blaze didn’t reach very high, but the fire was spread out. I could see some of the metal frames of the hospital beds and shelving we used. Flames just engulfed everything, covering shapes of every size. I couldn’t even tell what was equipment or a person, and that made me scream a heart full of rage and pain at the carnage right in front of me.
“Mari? Mari!”
Someone was shouting my name, growing louder by the second. Dr. Brooks loosened his hold on me just a fraction and I tried to seize the chance to run into the fire, but he held on tighter when he sensed me pulling away.”
So she’s a super important medical personnel….. extremely valuable because of her skills… yet she’s fighting to run into burning flames even as she recognizes the tent is beyond saving and there’s nothing she can do??? 🤔🤔
Yeah that makes TOTAL sense…
Which brings me to my next point… the author uses the characters to TELL us how we’re supposed to be feeling instead of laying the scene out for us and leading us to the correct feeling in an organic way.
I assume the above scene was supposed to demonstrate Mari being in shock to a point she was willing to run into the flames instead of just standing there to watch… but she yells at EVERYONE for doing anything half as dangerous if it can harm them…..
The author advertises Mari as being SO smart… until it suits the story for Mari to be dumb… and she’s dumb A LOTTTTT.
Nothing, and I do mean nothing, feels natural. It’s a lot of *oh man that’s probably really important. I should definitely tell someone. But wait… I really need to deal with this totally unimportant thing right now. I’ll just tuck the really important thing away for later*
🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄
And the amount of contradiction is PAINFUL!
Scene:
One of Mari’s men tells her she needs to stay back or with one of the guys to stay safe.
Mari scoffs, offended at the implication she needs one of her men to guard and protect her…
Then THE VERY NEXT SCENE…
*oh no!! Mari is being taken!! No she can’t be taken or die! I can’t live in a world without her in it!* and needs to be saved by one of her men 🙄🙄
It’s forced drama and happens MULTIPLE times.
Give me a freaking break. I have NEVER… I mean NEVER hated a FMC as much as I hate Mari.
Thankfully I only have one more book to suffer through 😒
Unfortunately I’m one of those people who has to know how a book/series turns out once I get to a certain point…. And I hate myself so much for it 😒😒😒
I’ve been struggling through this series since book 4, the last two books were the worst… like it’s actually putting me in a bad mood because of how bad they are.
I know you’re saying
*well it’s your fault for continuing to read them* and you’re absolutely right. I have no one to blame but myself….
And well Mari because she’s the WORST FMC IVE EVER READ IN MY LIFE‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
I read over 350 books last year….
I’m at 224 this year and I’m not exaggerating when I say Mari is the WORST character I’ve ever read in my life. I’m genuinely confused as to how this series has such good ratings. I honestly want to contact these 5 star ratings so they can convince me I’m wrong because I’m mindblown how horrible Mari is for this series.
Everything I’ve ever heard about these books was about this bada** fmc and hot biker dudes…
Could not be more wrong… well the biker dudes are actually hot and the only thing helping this painful situation.
Mari thinks she’s so valuable and she’s NOT. Yeah cool… we get it… you’re a medic.. that’s admirable… but it doesn’t compensate for how weak she is and EVERY OTHER aspect!!!
She walks around beating her chest (metaphorically) about how she knows so much about everything medical and then turns around and does something that’s (medically) hazardous to her health….
This scene for example.. a medical tent is attacked and here’s how she reacts 👇🏼👇🏼
*no spoilers other than knowing a tent gets attacked 😒*
“The doctor’s arms banded around me, pulling me back once he realized I fully intended to run into that tent, which had now collapsed into a wide circle of flames. The blaze didn’t reach very high, but the fire was spread out. I could see some of the metal frames of the hospital beds and shelving we used. Flames just engulfed everything, covering shapes of every size. I couldn’t even tell what was equipment or a person, and that made me scream a heart full of rage and pain at the carnage right in front of me.
“Mari? Mari!”
Someone was shouting my name, growing louder by the second. Dr. Brooks loosened his hold on me just a fraction and I tried to seize the chance to run into the fire, but he held on tighter when he sensed me pulling away.”
So she’s a super important medical personnel….. extremely valuable because of her skills… yet she’s fighting to run into burning flames even as she recognizes the tent is beyond saving and there’s nothing she can do??? 🤔🤔
Yeah that makes TOTAL sense…
Which brings me to my next point… the author uses the characters to TELL us how we’re supposed to be feeling instead of laying the scene out for us and leading us to the correct feeling in an organic way.
I assume the above scene was supposed to demonstrate Mari being in shock to a point she was willing to run into the flames instead of just standing there to watch… but she yells at EVERYONE for doing anything half as dangerous if it can harm them…..
The author advertises Mari as being SO smart… until it suits the story for Mari to be dumb… and she’s dumb A LOTTTTT.
Nothing, and I do mean nothing, feels natural. It’s a lot of *oh man that’s probably really important. I should definitely tell someone. But wait… I really need to deal with this totally unimportant thing right now. I’ll just tuck the really important thing away for later*
🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄
And the amount of contradiction is PAINFUL!
Scene:
One of Mari’s men tells her she needs to stay back or with one of the guys to stay safe.
Mari scoffs, offended at the implication she needs one of her men to guard and protect her…
Then THE VERY NEXT SCENE…
*oh no!! Mari is being taken!! No she can’t be taken or die! I can’t live in a world without her in it!* and needs to be saved by one of her men 🙄🙄
It’s forced drama and happens MULTIPLE times.
Give me a freaking break. I have NEVER… I mean NEVER hated a FMC as much as I hate Mari.
Thankfully I only have one more book to suffer through 😒
January 27, 2023
DNF at 61% or so.
I lost interest. I guess I am done with this series now.
I lost interest. I guess I am done with this series now.
June 4, 2021
First off! WTHeck with that ending!? My heart was racing.
This book played right where book seven left off. The battle was over and now Mari, Reaper, Shadow, Gunner and Jandro were ready for some quality time with each other.
Psyche....Just kidding. Four Corners is still being over run with Trash's Army on the move as well as the other territory. They really didn't have time to reconcile or relax with each other. It was go, go go, the entire time - but in a good way! lol
Mari still is having issues with forgiving Reaper. I understand why, but come on girl. I miss what they had so much. Shadow, whom I also love has come such a long way. He is completely different from where we saw him in Book 1. I'm LOVING it, however I feel like Shadow has had his book, he's had his moment and this book still focused A LOT on him. Mari was constantly telling him that she didn't want him to be left out, but I felt like that was exactly what she was doing to Gun and Jandro.
This book took a crazy turn that still had you on the edge of your seat. After 8 books, I'm in awe of how Crystal Ash still keeps us so intrigued. The "zombie-like" bodies that General Tash's army consists of was C R A Z Y! Like wowww. It definitely changed the course for how Four Corners was going to have to change their plan of attack.
The ending was everything we needed. Mari finds herself in a position she has never wanted for her husbands and the Chaos God AKA the Sha are to blame. I honestly don't see how their can only be one more book left. I feel like I need answers to sooo many questions.
This was an amazing book and continues to be an amazing series. I cannot wait to see what happens next. My heart cannot take anything bad and I need the Mari and Reaper reunion we are all craving.....Also - Maybe some group "fun" times in the next book. ;-)
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 5/5
*First person POV - all 5 of them
*Non stop craziness
*MFM action in this book. Yes!
*HEA? OMG - im dyying, no. Crazy cliffhanger
This book played right where book seven left off. The battle was over and now Mari, Reaper, Shadow, Gunner and Jandro were ready for some quality time with each other.
Psyche....Just kidding. Four Corners is still being over run with Trash's Army on the move as well as the other territory. They really didn't have time to reconcile or relax with each other. It was go, go go, the entire time - but in a good way! lol
Mari still is having issues with forgiving Reaper. I understand why, but come on girl. I miss what they had so much. Shadow, whom I also love has come such a long way. He is completely different from where we saw him in Book 1. I'm LOVING it, however I feel like Shadow has had his book, he's had his moment and this book still focused A LOT on him. Mari was constantly telling him that she didn't want him to be left out, but I felt like that was exactly what she was doing to Gun and Jandro.
This book took a crazy turn that still had you on the edge of your seat. After 8 books, I'm in awe of how Crystal Ash still keeps us so intrigued. The "zombie-like" bodies that General Tash's army consists of was C R A Z Y! Like wowww. It definitely changed the course for how Four Corners was going to have to change their plan of attack.
The ending was everything we needed. Mari finds herself in a position she has never wanted for her husbands and the Chaos God AKA the Sha are to blame. I honestly don't see how their can only be one more book left. I feel like I need answers to sooo many questions.
This was an amazing book and continues to be an amazing series. I cannot wait to see what happens next. My heart cannot take anything bad and I need the Mari and Reaper reunion we are all craving.....Also - Maybe some group "fun" times in the next book. ;-)
*Overall 5/5
*Heat? 5/5
*First person POV - all 5 of them
*Non stop craziness
*MFM action in this book. Yes!
*HEA? OMG - im dyying, no. Crazy cliffhanger
January 28, 2023
It was going so well
Even I'm amazed I made to book 8, the writing has been so good but for some reason Mari has turned annoying. Reaper and Gunner should both have been in the dog house yet for some reason all her anger is on Reaper. Yes yes she's angry I was too with book 7 but Mari is being vengeful and mean, if she doesn't want him why keep playing the backwards forwards thing with him and constantly testing him. If it's one thing this war needs it's him being the Pres not following her around like a lost puppy begging for scraps.
This one read like a filler to me, which would have been fine if I hadn't started skipping pages because Mari was getting annoying, so much so even seeing her name in italics was getting to me. Shadow has been my favourite from the get go but I enjoy RH because of the different dynamics, him being the focus for two book in a row is a bit much.
Even I'm amazed I made to book 8, the writing has been so good but for some reason Mari has turned annoying. Reaper and Gunner should both have been in the dog house yet for some reason all her anger is on Reaper. Yes yes she's angry I was too with book 7 but Mari is being vengeful and mean, if she doesn't want him why keep playing the backwards forwards thing with him and constantly testing him. If it's one thing this war needs it's him being the Pres not following her around like a lost puppy begging for scraps.
This one read like a filler to me, which would have been fine if I hadn't started skipping pages because Mari was getting annoying, so much so even seeing her name in italics was getting to me. Shadow has been my favourite from the get go but I enjoy RH because of the different dynamics, him being the focus for two book in a row is a bit much.
November 5, 2023
Mari was very selfish and petty with Reaper in this one. Like at first I got it she had a right to be upset but now she’s just being petty and mean to hurt him. She’s forgiven everyone except him and that just doesn’t sit well with me. I mean Shadow actually hurt her physically and while I get that he did it without being in a right of mind. Mari understood and forgave him cause it was not his intention to hurt her. Reaper made a choice and it hurt her but he also thought he was protecting her. Like doesn’t that count for something. Ugh she just frustrated me with her logic on what constitutes forgiveness from her. I don’t think she’s fair and it makes me think she’s being mean on purpose to the point where it’s making Reaper question his place with them and that’s sad.
Also another thing I’d like to mention is the fact that I don’t like how little the author mentions anyone else from the MC club in these last two books. I think they should have been more involved.
Also another thing I’d like to mention is the fact that I don’t like how little the author mentions anyone else from the MC club in these last two books. I think they should have been more involved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2024
Mari sucked in this one. Girl we get it, you’re hurt, either forgive or MOVE ON
June 2, 2021
I’m still reeling from this book and what makes it harder to grasp is that the next book will be the last one in the series. I’m not ready to give these people up. The author is still on a roll with this book. For an author to hold my interests with a series this long is an accomplishment.
Mari and her guys are once again in an epic battle that will take them surprise in ways many won’t see coming.
The interactions between Mari and the men are just emotional and hot. My favorites are Reaper and Shadow and though glad Shadow has opened up and become the man we know he would be, I was slightly mad at the slownroad to redemption Reaper is on to regain Mari’s trust. Don’t worry there are scenes between the two that will satisfy the reader.
Be prepared for some serious twists as well as plenty of action and steamy scenes.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
Mari and her guys are once again in an epic battle that will take them surprise in ways many won’t see coming.
The interactions between Mari and the men are just emotional and hot. My favorites are Reaper and Shadow and though glad Shadow has opened up and become the man we know he would be, I was slightly mad at the slownroad to redemption Reaper is on to regain Mari’s trust. Don’t worry there are scenes between the two that will satisfy the reader.
Be prepared for some serious twists as well as plenty of action and steamy scenes.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
June 6, 2021
We have action, suspense, heartache, and more. We do have longer sex scenes, even though written really well and bring in meaning to it, I would have liked more action. Mari is still struggling to except Reaper back completely. Her and Shadow have come very far as being husband and wife. Gunnar and Jandro are still her backbone. They have enemies coming from both sides. They have to fight, but what will happen when some of them get caught? Can they help get them back or are they gone for good. These armies don't seem real? What is going on with them? Can they figure out why? Why are the gods not saying anything to help them? Who is really behind this fight? Who will win? It seems like a lot cause. I received a free copy for my honest review.
June 5, 2021
Omg, just omg! Why? This book was not put down, I just couldn’t get it out of my hands. Crystal of course has done it again. Mari and her guys are back again and even though the tension is high you can still feel the chemistry. My heart breaks for Reaper as Mari’s feelings are still on the fence after her heart wrenching experience with Shadow. The war has begun and as the Steel Demons fight things get complicated. This book with keep you in suspense and that ending!!!! It will make you scream out loud!! Why crystal, just why??!!!
June 19, 2021
I gotta wait until the end of August for book 9?!
What to say? I love this series. I don't want it to end with the next book. Post apocalyptic meets mythology with 1% MC and all the heat to go with it. Not to mention when it's reverse harem/menege and the woman is worshipped like a queen by her men. I do have to say Mari annoyed me to no end. Forgive Reaper. You forgave Gunner and he was right there with Reap so get over it already. The man is dying inside.
Enough, don't want to spoil anything. Read this series. Love it!
What to say? I love this series. I don't want it to end with the next book. Post apocalyptic meets mythology with 1% MC and all the heat to go with it. Not to mention when it's reverse harem/menege and the woman is worshipped like a queen by her men. I do have to say Mari annoyed me to no end. Forgive Reaper. You forgave Gunner and he was right there with Reap so get over it already. The man is dying inside.
Enough, don't want to spoil anything. Read this series. Love it!
November 26, 2023
Kinda sick of Mari in this one. I get it, she has trust issues with Reaper now, but she didn't need to be so cruel. After the stuff after the bath tub bit, that was cruel and selfish. After that, I wouldn't even blame Reaper for giving up on her. She's punished him way too much.
Sounds horrible, but I kind of wish she was the one that got taken, she's had it pretty easy so far and it nightie changed her perspective on things 🙄 like why drag forgiveness out when everyone could die at any second?
Sounds horrible, but I kind of wish she was the one that got taken, she's had it pretty easy so far and it nightie changed her perspective on things 🙄 like why drag forgiveness out when everyone could die at any second?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2021
This is one hell of a series and with each book Ive gotten more and more hooked. It’s action packed and it’s intense and emotional and by gosh is it steamy! Phew!! But it’s addictive and the storyline just grabs you and it’s so well written that you feel as if you are actually there fighting the good fight along side our fantastic characters. I am anxious to read the next book but so sad cause it’s the last one and I’ve come to love the Steel demons.
June 5, 2021
Another heart pounding, breathtaking addition to the most incredible series! I have mixed emotions about only having one book left. I’m excited to finally have all my questions answers and for Mari and her men to finally get their HEA, yet I’m also sad because I don’t want to say goodbye to these characters.
Mari is back home in Four Corners with all of her guys, but things are still strained between she and Reaper. On top of that, the threat from Tash is mounting and our Steel Demons must continue to fight before they can get their happy ending. The paranormal element to this series has always taken a bit of a backseat in my opinion but I’m loving that we are seeing more about the impact of the gods and the role they play in the overall storyline.
Once again, Mari and Shadow’s scenes in this book stole the show for me. I just love Shadow more and more each book and swoon over the two of them together. In Ruthless, we see a more confident Shadow which is totally H-O-T! I also really felt for Reaper in this book. I do feel like he’s changed and learned from his mistakes and was rooting for him throughout this book!
In addition to the incredible character development, the action in this book is intense and we are left on a brutal cliffhanger! I’m chomping at the bit for the next book and am so excited to see how Crystal closes out this remarkable series.
Mari is back home in Four Corners with all of her guys, but things are still strained between she and Reaper. On top of that, the threat from Tash is mounting and our Steel Demons must continue to fight before they can get their happy ending. The paranormal element to this series has always taken a bit of a backseat in my opinion but I’m loving that we are seeing more about the impact of the gods and the role they play in the overall storyline.
Once again, Mari and Shadow’s scenes in this book stole the show for me. I just love Shadow more and more each book and swoon over the two of them together. In Ruthless, we see a more confident Shadow which is totally H-O-T! I also really felt for Reaper in this book. I do feel like he’s changed and learned from his mistakes and was rooting for him throughout this book!
In addition to the incredible character development, the action in this book is intense and we are left on a brutal cliffhanger! I’m chomping at the bit for the next book and am so excited to see how Crystal closes out this remarkable series.
June 4, 2021
Crystal is in timeout
Another fantastic installment in the Steel Demons series, but Crustal nope, not accepting this ending. Why did you do this 😭 August can't come quick enough. I love this series and I will be sad when it's over.
Another fantastic installment in the Steel Demons series, but Crustal nope, not accepting this ending. Why did you do this 😭 August can't come quick enough. I love this series and I will be sad when it's over.
June 4, 2021
Wholly intense Batman!!! The intimate scenes had me like whoa and then that ending had me like WHOA and now I’m all like, I NEED THE NEXT BOOK NOW!!!!!!
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