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The Villain's Duet #1-2
The Villain
● The Villain is the box set of The Villain's Duet and contains both novels:
➖ The Villain's Captive
➖ The Villain's Beloved
You can now read the entire duet as a complete standalone.
✤ Elijah ✤
I'm the one they all fear.
The one they whisper about.
A faceless ghost.
My hands are coated in crimson from souls I've sent to hell - at a price.
I've never missed a target, and I always deliver.
I'm the Grim Reaper of the Cosa Nostra.
Then there's her. The cellist whose music soothes the malignance of my existence.
For years I've lurked in the shadows watching her play.
Waiting. Anticipating the day I'll come for her.
Her innocence tempts me.
My blackened heart craves to ruin it, to smother her light with my darkness.
She's the nucleus of my obsession... and my next victim.
✤ Charlotte ✤
The day Elijah took me, he vowed to tame me.
I tried to fight him. Tried to survive without losing my heart.
But in the end, he did what he said he’d do… tame me.
He claimed me so unapologetically, and I surrendered willingly.
Together we found our place within the darkness.
We succumbed to wicked desires and tainted intentions.
And with every kiss, every touch, I allowed myself to fall deeper. Drowning within
the seduction of a killer’s obsession.
I was reckless. Blinded by the promises of a man who wanted nothing but me.
I should have known better. Guarded my heart more fiercely.
After all—nothing good can come from falling for the villain.
➖ The Villain's Captive
➖ The Villain's Beloved
You can now read the entire duet as a complete standalone.
✤ Elijah ✤
I'm the one they all fear.
The one they whisper about.
A faceless ghost.
My hands are coated in crimson from souls I've sent to hell - at a price.
I've never missed a target, and I always deliver.
I'm the Grim Reaper of the Cosa Nostra.
Then there's her. The cellist whose music soothes the malignance of my existence.
For years I've lurked in the shadows watching her play.
Waiting. Anticipating the day I'll come for her.
Her innocence tempts me.
My blackened heart craves to ruin it, to smother her light with my darkness.
She's the nucleus of my obsession... and my next victim.
✤ Charlotte ✤
The day Elijah took me, he vowed to tame me.
I tried to fight him. Tried to survive without losing my heart.
But in the end, he did what he said he’d do… tame me.
He claimed me so unapologetically, and I surrendered willingly.
Together we found our place within the darkness.
We succumbed to wicked desires and tainted intentions.
And with every kiss, every touch, I allowed myself to fall deeper. Drowning within
the seduction of a killer’s obsession.
I was reckless. Blinded by the promises of a man who wanted nothing but me.
I should have known better. Guarded my heart more fiercely.
After all—nothing good can come from falling for the villain.
Unknown Binding
First published September 21, 2021
45 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Bella J.
57 books2,057 followersBella J. is an International and Amazon top 100 bestselling author.
Writing DARK ROMANCE with twists, Bella has an affinity for the ruthless men of the MAFIA world and weaves tales that will leave you breathless and questioning your own moral compass.
When she's not busy creating worlds where danger and romance dance a tango, you can find Bella soaking up the sun in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa. Her writing lair is occasionally invaded by her husband, two kids, and a basset hound who reigns supreme.
A firm believer that laughter is the best medicine, Bella infuses her fictional dark worlds with some wit and humor that peppers her novels.
So buckle up for a thrilling ride through the shadows of romance where happily ever afters have a dark side.
Writing DARK ROMANCE with twists, Bella has an affinity for the ruthless men of the MAFIA world and weaves tales that will leave you breathless and questioning your own moral compass.
When she's not busy creating worlds where danger and romance dance a tango, you can find Bella soaking up the sun in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa. Her writing lair is occasionally invaded by her husband, two kids, and a basset hound who reigns supreme.
A firm believer that laughter is the best medicine, Bella infuses her fictional dark worlds with some wit and humor that peppers her novels.
So buckle up for a thrilling ride through the shadows of romance where happily ever afters have a dark side.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 11, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
Finally!! I got around to finishing this book!! Took awhile because I didn't know the author changed the covers and title so I thought it was gone. So I finished book 2 today.
Elijah poor baby his poor mind I wanted to hug this man even when he was a major jerk for the first half of the story. He was stalking Charlotte for many years as a debt but secretly he fell in love with her music when she played the chello, time is running out so he moves up his plan to kidnap her. The sexual tension between the two are hot even if he's a jerk and uses fear with Charlotte they learn more about eachother when they go on the run.
More secerts and betrayal happens but that doesnt stop these two from opening up to eachother. I was sadden about Elijah memories.. my poor baby is broken.. its wired I care more for him 🤣🤣🤣
The ending made me sad because I felt like it was a HFN but with a Epilogue. I wanted more.
No ow/om drama, no cheating, Drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-yes/maybe
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Prologue
Slowburnish
Pinning
Push away from h
Drugged
No condom
Past abuse
Truma
Tiny Dub-conish
Tiny Humiliation/degradation
Violence
Hea
Epilogue
Finally!! I got around to finishing this book!! Took awhile because I didn't know the author changed the covers and title so I thought it was gone. So I finished book 2 today.
Elijah poor baby his poor mind I wanted to hug this man even when he was a major jerk for the first half of the story. He was stalking Charlotte for many years as a debt but secretly he fell in love with her music when she played the chello, time is running out so he moves up his plan to kidnap her. The sexual tension between the two are hot even if he's a jerk and uses fear with Charlotte they learn more about eachother when they go on the run.
More secerts and betrayal happens but that doesnt stop these two from opening up to eachother. I was sadden about Elijah memories.. my poor baby is broken.. its wired I care more for him 🤣🤣🤣
The ending made me sad because I felt like it was a HFN but with a Epilogue. I wanted more.
No ow/om drama, no cheating, Drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-yes/maybe
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶🌶
Prologue
Slowburnish
Pinning
Push away from h
Drugged
No condom
Past abuse
Truma
Tiny Dub-conish
Tiny Humiliation/degradation
Violence
Hea
Epilogue
September 2, 2021
This first book in the Villain Duet grabs you from the first chapter. Elijah is a hitman nicknamed The Musician who has been observing Charlotte Moore as a repayment for a debt he owed his mentor. Charlotte Moore has never known her father, lost her mother to cancer three years before, and is an exceptional cellist, but due to an illness, she doesn’t play professionally. One of Charlotte’s jobs is to clean a theatre when it closes and there, after hours, she plays her cello. Unbeknownst to her, Elijah has been watching and listening. Soon Charlotte has become Elijah’s obsession as her music soothes the beast inside him. To keep her safe, he kidnaps her. But is that the truth?
Elijah and Charlotte’s relationship continues to grow and develop and with enemies closing in, Elijah tries to keep her safe. We soon find out that all is not as it seems. With the help of one of Elijah’s friends, Charlotte finds out the truth of the situation, and everything changes.
Wow.. did not see that coming.
Bravo Bella J, you got me. That twist was surprising and heartbreaking! I did not expect to feel so much with this book. This second installment does not disappoint and is as passionate as the first. Elijah will stick with me for a long time.
Elijah and Charlotte’s relationship continues to grow and develop and with enemies closing in, Elijah tries to keep her safe. We soon find out that all is not as it seems. With the help of one of Elijah’s friends, Charlotte finds out the truth of the situation, and everything changes.
Wow.. did not see that coming.
Bravo Bella J, you got me. That twist was surprising and heartbreaking! I did not expect to feel so much with this book. This second installment does not disappoint and is as passionate as the first. Elijah will stick with me for a long time.
May 22, 2024
This was such an interesting book. On the surface you have the typical assassin "observes" a sweet young woman in her early twenties for 3 years. She is an orphan, her mother has died and her father's not around. Said assassin obsessed and falls in love and takes her. And then this story takes on a whole bunch of different layers that I'm not going to tell you about because it would spoil the rest of the book. The direction the author went was really interesting. The connection between these two was steamy and you could feel it. That's genuine love for her was obvious. Her love and dedication to him, when she's offered the choice to leave is perfect. If you're looking for a story with kidnapping, gray area seduction and marriage, Steam, Mafia elements but with layers of nuance and depth then you should definitely pick this up.
September 5, 2021
THE VILLAIN BOX SET by Bella J is a box set of the Duet series: The Villain's Duet. This is a Dark Stalker Mafia Romance that centers on Charlotte and Elijah. This is a great box set and a must read.
The two books that are in the set:
The Villain's Captive:
Charlotte plays the cello but really only for herself. Unknown to her is that someone else had heard her play which has now became an almost obsession for Elijah. Elijah is your anti-hero who is a hit-man but something about Charlotte's music calms him from all the darkness.
The Villain's Beloved
This book does pick up where we left off in the last one. Their story isn't for the weak of heart as it is dark and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I really enjoyed this Duet and will be looking for more books from this author.
The two books that are in the set:
The Villain's Captive:
Charlotte plays the cello but really only for herself. Unknown to her is that someone else had heard her play which has now became an almost obsession for Elijah. Elijah is your anti-hero who is a hit-man but something about Charlotte's music calms him from all the darkness.
The Villain's Beloved
This book does pick up where we left off in the last one. Their story isn't for the weak of heart as it is dark and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I really enjoyed this Duet and will be looking for more books from this author.
August 29, 2021
The action, the suspense, the intrigue, the twists, the steam and that cliffhanger ending in Book 1. Wow! Thank God this is the complete duet and I was able to jump into Book 2 right away. And don't even get me started on the swoonworthy anti-hero who's obsessed with the heroine. This page turner is a wild ride!
April 24, 2024
“Where have you been all my life?”
“I’ve always been there. You just never saw me.”
I have no clue how to rate this book, or even what to say about it.
I have NO idea how to process this story. The last 10% of the book had me shaking my head and wondering WTF is going on?!?!
And that ENDING!!! I about lost my sh*t and almost chucked my Kindle across the room. I need to figure out I feel about Charlotte and Elijah’s very unconventional romance journey.
“I’ve always been there. You just never saw me.”
I have no clue how to rate this book, or even what to say about it.
I have NO idea how to process this story. The last 10% of the book had me shaking my head and wondering WTF is going on?!?!
And that ENDING!!! I about lost my sh*t and almost chucked my Kindle across the room. I need to figure out I feel about Charlotte and Elijah’s very unconventional romance journey.
September 6, 2021
THE VILLAIN BOX SET by @bellajauthor is NOW AVAILABLE and contains the Duet series: The Villain's Duet. This is a Dark Stalker Mafia Romance that centers on Charlotte and Elijah. This is a great box set and a must read for all mafia Romance addicts out there.
Yami’s Review
My first Bella J book and it will not be my last. Elijah is The Musician, a hitman for hire by the Italian mafia, the Grim Reaper of the Cosa Nostra. His next target is Charlotte Moore, a shy cellist with a debilitating disease who lost her mother and seems like her whole world came crumbling down when her mom died.
She is kidnapped by Elijah but why?
This book will have you guessing from beginning to end and their love scenes will have you begging for more. This was my first book by Bella J and it was a solid 3.5 stars for me.
Why 3.5 stars? I never got to find out what type of disease Charlotte has and that ending was seriously very poorly executed. I would have been happier with a more thorough ending to be quite honest.
I’m still going to pick up other books by Bella J. I am intrigued by Saint and Mila!
Yami’s Review
My first Bella J book and it will not be my last. Elijah is The Musician, a hitman for hire by the Italian mafia, the Grim Reaper of the Cosa Nostra. His next target is Charlotte Moore, a shy cellist with a debilitating disease who lost her mother and seems like her whole world came crumbling down when her mom died.
She is kidnapped by Elijah but why?
This book will have you guessing from beginning to end and their love scenes will have you begging for more. This was my first book by Bella J and it was a solid 3.5 stars for me.
Why 3.5 stars? I never got to find out what type of disease Charlotte has and that ending was seriously very poorly executed. I would have been happier with a more thorough ending to be quite honest.
I’m still going to pick up other books by Bella J. I am intrigued by Saint and Mila!
April 16, 2023
An intriguing, dark and gripping stalker mafia romance!
This book from the beginning to the end is so very INVIGORATING and ENTERTAINING.
Elijah is obsessed with Charlotte. He finds himself strongly drawn to this cellist.when he hears her play her cello the darkness within him calms down and for that moment his mind is at peace.
Elijah and Charlotte’s story is HIGHLY engaging, DEEPLY intense and SENSUALLY passionate.
These characters are ADDICTING and MOVING.
Get lost in this THRILLING, SUSPENSEFUL and ENTICING world where the twist and turn, steamy sex scenes and ALL-CONSUMING love will have you falling for this anti-hero and the women that will give him much needed light.
REMARKABLY written Bella🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 Elijah and Charlotte’s story is very ALLURING and INVITING!!
This book from the beginning to the end is so very INVIGORATING and ENTERTAINING.
Elijah is obsessed with Charlotte. He finds himself strongly drawn to this cellist.when he hears her play her cello the darkness within him calms down and for that moment his mind is at peace.
Elijah and Charlotte’s story is HIGHLY engaging, DEEPLY intense and SENSUALLY passionate.
These characters are ADDICTING and MOVING.
Get lost in this THRILLING, SUSPENSEFUL and ENTICING world where the twist and turn, steamy sex scenes and ALL-CONSUMING love will have you falling for this anti-hero and the women that will give him much needed light.
REMARKABLY written Bella🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 Elijah and Charlotte’s story is very ALLURING and INVITING!!
October 13, 2021
The first book is 5 stars, the second one is 4 and the ending was an HEA but it still broke my heart
September 1, 2021
Elijah is the “Grim Reaper” of the Cosa Nostra. He is VERY skilled at what he does. Honestly, to the point of never messing up, till she comes along. Charlotte is a cellist who has had a rough up bringing and barely scrapes by. Till Elijah comes along and makes her fall in love.
The characters in the book were unique in a way I had never read, of course they had the typical captor characteristics but the things that make them, them were so different. The plot line I think feels a little confusing only because I had never followed along in a story that was told in this way. There are little hints that lead you to the ending along the way but you never know what to believe. The ending was magnificent and totally unexpected. Nothing like I had read before.
The characters in the book were unique in a way I had never read, of course they had the typical captor characteristics but the things that make them, them were so different. The plot line I think feels a little confusing only because I had never followed along in a story that was told in this way. There are little hints that lead you to the ending along the way but you never know what to believe. The ending was magnificent and totally unexpected. Nothing like I had read before.
December 31, 2023
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙑𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙣'𝙨 𝘾𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 #1
A melodic darkness that'll consume you in its obsession. That's what The Musician or Mr. Elijah Mariano is as a man.
This book is just something else with the tone being dark and yet weirdly soothing.
First of though, can I just say HOW FREAKING GORGEOUS THAT COVER IS & AFTER READING THE BOOK SAY THAT THE GUY ON THE COVER GIVES THE PERFECT FEELS FOR ELIJAH.
OH MY. How do you describe a man as mysterious as Mr. Elijah Mariano is.
The prologue itself gave me the chills and a glimpse into the man himself. That he kills with a finesse and has a deep soul connection to music. But it's not until later while reading his flashbacks that we really get to know the real man that's now known as The Musician.
Charlotte on the other hand is a simple girl trying to live her life as day comes. She lives on meagre terms but music or rather playing the cello is her life. Her dreams, her goals, her everything is that cello which she plays quietly on the stage when no one is there.
There's no connection between these two except when Charlotte played she wasn't alone but becoming an obsession of a very dangerous man.
My heart went out for Charlotte. For a girl who's lost so much and being passionate about something and yet being tyed hand is difficult. But yet again life throws her another curveball, the most testing of them all & she has no idea how she's gonna get out of this.
But there's something about Elijah, he's magnetizing even in his darkness and the love for music binds two poles apart souls together.
Especially when you go through the flashbacks of Elijah, one gets to the inner workings of his mind and why he is the way he is.
I loved the flashbacks. They were painful & difficult but open up the heart of the Real Man that is the Musician.
" THE OBSERVER " WAS TURNING INTO THE OBSESSED FOR" HIS LITTLE CELLIST" BUT I AS READER WAS FALLING FOR THE MASTER, THE MUSICIAN.
AND THE FREAKING TWISTS & TURNS. I COULD NEVER HAVE ANTICIPATED HOW IT ALL CONNECTS.
But just like Charlotte I was taking in all the revelations then OHHHHH NOOOOOO.... THAT ENDING HAD ME LIKE... WHATTT?????? 😳😳😳😳.
Wow. What a freaking unexpected, full of surprises this ride was. Can't wait for book 2.
Love Elijah. I can't help it. I'm IN LOVE WITH HIS DARKNESS YET CALM PERSONALITY. Elijah is 🔥🔥💋💋😍😍.
WHAT THE WHAT???!!!!! HOW.... I'M SHOCKED AND SPECCHLESS, UNDOUBTEDLY ALL OVER THE PLACE AFTER READING THIS SPECTACULAR TWISTER OF A RIDE... 😱😱😱😍😍😍.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙑𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙣'𝙨 𝘽𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 #2
This book picks up from right where we were left on that surprising cliffy from book 1. There are demons still haunting Elijah and Charlotte but now there's a friend, Saint, who's there to help and support them. I loved reading about Saint and Mila in this book. I'd absolutely adored them in their books and it was amazing to see them so in love.
But what I loved is how they are perfectly interspersed in Elijah and Charlotte's story. Bringing to light, a life changing and shocking truth that would never have been known about if not for them.
Elijah and Charlotte are still the captive and the prisoner. But now Charlotte is the willing prisoner and in fact is the captive in ownership of Elijah.
Things are going as roughly smooth as they can be for Elijah and Charlotte but one thing has definitely changed. That's their immense feelings and house on fire chemistry for each other.
I loved sneaking a peak in Elijah's past and hence getting to connect all the dots.
BUT THAT FREAKING TWISTER AND THAT ENDING... WOW... I WAS SHOCKED AND AFTER FINISHING THIS ONE, I NEEDED A MINUTE TO MYSELF.
I loved getting pushed and shocked into something that I'd never thought was a part of something that could change it all. Loved this filthy, awesome twister of a ride. I'm still taking it all in. What a ride for sure. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
A melodic darkness that'll consume you in its obsession. That's what The Musician or Mr. Elijah Mariano is as a man.
This book is just something else with the tone being dark and yet weirdly soothing.
First of though, can I just say HOW FREAKING GORGEOUS THAT COVER IS & AFTER READING THE BOOK SAY THAT THE GUY ON THE COVER GIVES THE PERFECT FEELS FOR ELIJAH.
OH MY. How do you describe a man as mysterious as Mr. Elijah Mariano is.
The prologue itself gave me the chills and a glimpse into the man himself. That he kills with a finesse and has a deep soul connection to music. But it's not until later while reading his flashbacks that we really get to know the real man that's now known as The Musician.
Charlotte on the other hand is a simple girl trying to live her life as day comes. She lives on meagre terms but music or rather playing the cello is her life. Her dreams, her goals, her everything is that cello which she plays quietly on the stage when no one is there.
There's no connection between these two except when Charlotte played she wasn't alone but becoming an obsession of a very dangerous man.
My heart went out for Charlotte. For a girl who's lost so much and being passionate about something and yet being tyed hand is difficult. But yet again life throws her another curveball, the most testing of them all & she has no idea how she's gonna get out of this.
But there's something about Elijah, he's magnetizing even in his darkness and the love for music binds two poles apart souls together.
Especially when you go through the flashbacks of Elijah, one gets to the inner workings of his mind and why he is the way he is.
I loved the flashbacks. They were painful & difficult but open up the heart of the Real Man that is the Musician.
" THE OBSERVER " WAS TURNING INTO THE OBSESSED FOR" HIS LITTLE CELLIST" BUT I AS READER WAS FALLING FOR THE MASTER, THE MUSICIAN.
AND THE FREAKING TWISTS & TURNS. I COULD NEVER HAVE ANTICIPATED HOW IT ALL CONNECTS.
But just like Charlotte I was taking in all the revelations then OHHHHH NOOOOOO.... THAT ENDING HAD ME LIKE... WHATTT?????? 😳😳😳😳.
Wow. What a freaking unexpected, full of surprises this ride was. Can't wait for book 2.
Love Elijah. I can't help it. I'm IN LOVE WITH HIS DARKNESS YET CALM PERSONALITY. Elijah is 🔥🔥💋💋😍😍.
WHAT THE WHAT???!!!!! HOW.... I'M SHOCKED AND SPECCHLESS, UNDOUBTEDLY ALL OVER THE PLACE AFTER READING THIS SPECTACULAR TWISTER OF A RIDE... 😱😱😱😍😍😍.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙑𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙣'𝙨 𝘽𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 #2
This book picks up from right where we were left on that surprising cliffy from book 1. There are demons still haunting Elijah and Charlotte but now there's a friend, Saint, who's there to help and support them. I loved reading about Saint and Mila in this book. I'd absolutely adored them in their books and it was amazing to see them so in love.
But what I loved is how they are perfectly interspersed in Elijah and Charlotte's story. Bringing to light, a life changing and shocking truth that would never have been known about if not for them.
Elijah and Charlotte are still the captive and the prisoner. But now Charlotte is the willing prisoner and in fact is the captive in ownership of Elijah.
Things are going as roughly smooth as they can be for Elijah and Charlotte but one thing has definitely changed. That's their immense feelings and house on fire chemistry for each other.
I loved sneaking a peak in Elijah's past and hence getting to connect all the dots.
BUT THAT FREAKING TWISTER AND THAT ENDING... WOW... I WAS SHOCKED AND AFTER FINISHING THIS ONE, I NEEDED A MINUTE TO MYSELF.
I loved getting pushed and shocked into something that I'd never thought was a part of something that could change it all. Loved this filthy, awesome twister of a ride. I'm still taking it all in. What a ride for sure. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
September 9, 2021
4 ⭐'s
This was my first experience reading a Bella J. story and it won't be my last. The Villain contains the duet that was previously published as The Musician/ The Soloist and then The Villain's Captive/The Villain's Beloved. It is a dark, stalker/kidnapping romance with the first book ending on a cliffhanger but that doesn't matter because you get both books in this box set.
The duet tells the story of Elijah "The Musician" and Charlotte Moore. Charlotte never knew her father and her mother passed away. Now she struggles to make ends meet. She plays the cello beautifully but isn't able to play professionally. Every day she cleans the theater and plays her cello in the dark of the theater thinking she is alone, playing to the audience in her imagination. Elijah watches her play every night though she doesn't realize it. He is a professional killer who is a perfectionist in what he does which earns him the moniker of The Musician. Not only does her music sooth something within her soul but his as well. The darkness at his core calms when he hears her play to the point that he has become obsessed. So what does any level-headed assassin do? He kidnaps her.
Their time together is shrouded in the darkness that draws them together until love enters the picture. I loved how their relationship grew even in the midst of secrets and lies. There were so many interesting twists and turns that I didn't know what was for real and what wasn't. I love finding that in a story! They were made for each other.
I love dark romance because there are so many real issues in the world that it's realistic for someone to live with desires that could only be described as having no light. Then they meet the one person that can brighten the darkness. This duet is the epitome of that existence and I loved quite a bit of it. It was definitely time well spent and I recommend it to anyone who loves dark romance. I will definitely be paying more attention when she releases more new books.
This was my first experience reading a Bella J. story and it won't be my last. The Villain contains the duet that was previously published as The Musician/ The Soloist and then The Villain's Captive/The Villain's Beloved. It is a dark, stalker/kidnapping romance with the first book ending on a cliffhanger but that doesn't matter because you get both books in this box set.
The duet tells the story of Elijah "The Musician" and Charlotte Moore. Charlotte never knew her father and her mother passed away. Now she struggles to make ends meet. She plays the cello beautifully but isn't able to play professionally. Every day she cleans the theater and plays her cello in the dark of the theater thinking she is alone, playing to the audience in her imagination. Elijah watches her play every night though she doesn't realize it. He is a professional killer who is a perfectionist in what he does which earns him the moniker of The Musician. Not only does her music sooth something within her soul but his as well. The darkness at his core calms when he hears her play to the point that he has become obsessed. So what does any level-headed assassin do? He kidnaps her.
Their time together is shrouded in the darkness that draws them together until love enters the picture. I loved how their relationship grew even in the midst of secrets and lies. There were so many interesting twists and turns that I didn't know what was for real and what wasn't. I love finding that in a story! They were made for each other.
I love dark romance because there are so many real issues in the world that it's realistic for someone to live with desires that could only be described as having no light. Then they meet the one person that can brighten the darkness. This duet is the epitome of that existence and I loved quite a bit of it. It was definitely time well spent and I recommend it to anyone who loves dark romance. I will definitely be paying more attention when she releases more new books.
September 15, 2021
“I might be a monster in this world, but I want to be a colossus in yours.”
“Charlotte was the personification of classical music- an entire fucking orchestra on her own, able to make me feel things a man like me never should.”
“You are worth a thousand last breaths. A million fucking slit throats. That’s what I’ll do for you, my sweet cellist.”
“Would you worship next to me in Heaven? Or rule alongside me in hell?”
Both Charlotte and Elijah had difficult lives, but the trajectory of where they are now is completely different. Charlotte is alone after the death of her mother, and scrapes by working as a waitress and a cleaner at the Alto Theatre. However, the theatre is a draw for her, since after hours she can play her cello on the stage in the darkness. Her life is lonely and mundane, and though she wants to perform, she faces pain and the fear of the limelight. Elijah also loves music, though if anything, it dulls the pain he feels from his past. Working for whoever pays the most to get rid of their enemies, Elijah’s persona as The Musician leaves behind scarred chests and most often death, rather than the soothing and healing presence of music. Charlotte didn’t mean to fall in love with The Musician, but just like how the cello is a part of her, Elijah eventually becomes a crucial part of her life too. I love that there wasn’t a traditional happy ending to the story. The characters may end up together, but they neither one is perfect. Although their futures would certainly have complications because of Elijah’s past, their devotion and unconditional love is admirable. An enjoyable dark read!
“Charlotte was the personification of classical music- an entire fucking orchestra on her own, able to make me feel things a man like me never should.”
“You are worth a thousand last breaths. A million fucking slit throats. That’s what I’ll do for you, my sweet cellist.”
“Would you worship next to me in Heaven? Or rule alongside me in hell?”
Both Charlotte and Elijah had difficult lives, but the trajectory of where they are now is completely different. Charlotte is alone after the death of her mother, and scrapes by working as a waitress and a cleaner at the Alto Theatre. However, the theatre is a draw for her, since after hours she can play her cello on the stage in the darkness. Her life is lonely and mundane, and though she wants to perform, she faces pain and the fear of the limelight. Elijah also loves music, though if anything, it dulls the pain he feels from his past. Working for whoever pays the most to get rid of their enemies, Elijah’s persona as The Musician leaves behind scarred chests and most often death, rather than the soothing and healing presence of music. Charlotte didn’t mean to fall in love with The Musician, but just like how the cello is a part of her, Elijah eventually becomes a crucial part of her life too. I love that there wasn’t a traditional happy ending to the story. The characters may end up together, but they neither one is perfect. Although their futures would certainly have complications because of Elijah’s past, their devotion and unconditional love is admirable. An enjoyable dark read!
October 15, 2025
A Dark, Addictive Romance You Won’t Forget
The Villain by Bella J completely consumed me from the very first page. It’s the kind of dark romance that grabs hold of your heart and refuses to let go. Bella J delivers a story that’s both brutal and beautiful — filled with passion, vengeance, and redemption in the most unexpected ways.
The characters are unforgettable. The “villain” is exactly what his name promises — cold, commanding, and unapologetically ruthless — yet Bella J masterfully peels back his layers to reveal a complexity that makes you question everything. The heroine’s strength and resilience balance the darkness perfectly, creating a magnetic push-and-pull that makes their chemistry sizzle.
The writing is intense, emotional, and addictive. Every chapter had me on edge, and the twists kept my heart racing until the very end. If you love morally gray heroes, fierce heroines, and stories that explore the darker side of love with depth and raw emotion, this book is a must-read.
Highly recommend for fans of dark, emotional, and dangerously passionate romance!
I received an ARC copy and this is my honest review.
The Villain by Bella J completely consumed me from the very first page. It’s the kind of dark romance that grabs hold of your heart and refuses to let go. Bella J delivers a story that’s both brutal and beautiful — filled with passion, vengeance, and redemption in the most unexpected ways.
The characters are unforgettable. The “villain” is exactly what his name promises — cold, commanding, and unapologetically ruthless — yet Bella J masterfully peels back his layers to reveal a complexity that makes you question everything. The heroine’s strength and resilience balance the darkness perfectly, creating a magnetic push-and-pull that makes their chemistry sizzle.
The writing is intense, emotional, and addictive. Every chapter had me on edge, and the twists kept my heart racing until the very end. If you love morally gray heroes, fierce heroines, and stories that explore the darker side of love with depth and raw emotion, this book is a must-read.
Highly recommend for fans of dark, emotional, and dangerously passionate romance!
I received an ARC copy and this is my honest review.
September 10, 2021
Heartbreaking Love
Boxed set duet, The Villain's Captive and The Villain's Beloved.
The Villain's Captive
Elijah, a ghost, the Grim Reaper of the Costa Nostra. Patiently obsessed. Waiting for and plotting against his next victim, a cellist.
Charlotte, innocent cellist, captive to the man who took her, demanding she play only for him. Playing for him to keep his rage and insanity at bay, to find his calm.
Captive or hidden? To be a mark, a contracted hit, of the assassin, she should not be alive... Capturing her to hide her, awaiting the fallout. A debt to be paid while Charlotte is being hunted down as a bargaining tool for the Costa Nostra.
Fragile and tragic existences brought these two together into a captivatingly dark romance as Charlotte falls into lust/love for her fierce protector. While Elijah wishes nothing more than to live life with her out of the shadows.
Until his trust and love is ripped away...
The Villain's Beloved... Wow, all I can say is the suffering endured and the results of it, truly a heartbreaking story. Wow
Boxed set duet, The Villain's Captive and The Villain's Beloved.
The Villain's Captive
Elijah, a ghost, the Grim Reaper of the Costa Nostra. Patiently obsessed. Waiting for and plotting against his next victim, a cellist.
Charlotte, innocent cellist, captive to the man who took her, demanding she play only for him. Playing for him to keep his rage and insanity at bay, to find his calm.
Captive or hidden? To be a mark, a contracted hit, of the assassin, she should not be alive... Capturing her to hide her, awaiting the fallout. A debt to be paid while Charlotte is being hunted down as a bargaining tool for the Costa Nostra.
Fragile and tragic existences brought these two together into a captivatingly dark romance as Charlotte falls into lust/love for her fierce protector. While Elijah wishes nothing more than to live life with her out of the shadows.
Until his trust and love is ripped away...
The Villain's Beloved... Wow, all I can say is the suffering endured and the results of it, truly a heartbreaking story. Wow
September 26, 2021
The villain
This is a dark captive, mafia romance read from this author. This is the first book in the Villain duet series. This is the story of Elijah and Charlotte, these two have a relationship that grows and develops over the course of the book. This story just grabs you from the first page and keeps you reading long into the night. This book has twists and turns which give you loads of surprises along the way. This story is heartbreaking in places and very passionate. This is an amazing story from this author and I can’t wait to read more in the future.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest review
www.obsessedbookreviews.com
January 6, 2024
Holy Crap.
That was a mind fuck.
Just when you think you are figuring shit out and getting answers - shit switches up and you don't know what to believe and the answers you got are not really answers now are they.
It was heart breaking at that epilogue when we FINALLY get the damn truth.
Their whole love story .... its not even real is it... now that we know the truth, does he even love her or did he make that up!! UGH I wanted to cry at that finding out the truth. I wanted so bad for Elijah to be right and telling the truth. Sigh
I will say, the spice in this was on point. Like damn.
This was just really great writing except for somethings that got repeated - like it talked about her being in Italy and not being able to explore it then saying I hate Murphy. literally 2 separate times in the book.
Spice 3.5/5
Humor 0/5
Emotional 1/5
World Building 5/5
Overall 5/5
That was a mind fuck.
Just when you think you are figuring shit out and getting answers - shit switches up and you don't know what to believe and the answers you got are not really answers now are they.
It was heart breaking at that epilogue when we FINALLY get the damn truth.
Their whole love story .... its not even real is it... now that we know the truth, does he even love her or did he make that up!! UGH I wanted to cry at that finding out the truth. I wanted so bad for Elijah to be right and telling the truth. Sigh
I will say, the spice in this was on point. Like damn.
This was just really great writing except for somethings that got repeated - like it talked about her being in Italy and not being able to explore it then saying I hate Murphy. literally 2 separate times in the book.
Spice 3.5/5
Humor 0/5
Emotional 1/5
World Building 5/5
Overall 5/5
August 31, 2021
Elijah is the “Grim Reaper” of the Cosa Nostra. He is VERY skilled at what he does. Honestly, to the point of never messing up, till she comes along. Charlotte is a cellist who has had a rough up bringing and barely scrapes by. Till Elijah comes along and makes her fall in love.
The characters in the book were unique in a way I had never read, of course they had the typical captor characteristics but the things that make them, them were so different. The plot line I think feels a little confusing only because I had never followed along in a story that was told in this way. There are little hints that lead you to the ending along the way but you never know what to believe. The ending was magnificent and totally unexpected. Nothing like I had read before. Elijah is leading you to believe one thing while the story line is taking you another place.
The characters in the book were unique in a way I had never read, of course they had the typical captor characteristics but the things that make them, them were so different. The plot line I think feels a little confusing only because I had never followed along in a story that was told in this way. There are little hints that lead you to the ending along the way but you never know what to believe. The ending was magnificent and totally unexpected. Nothing like I had read before. Elijah is leading you to believe one thing while the story line is taking you another place.
June 29, 2023
Warning: The ending of this book ruined it for me honestly. So if you want to prevent your own misery by spoiling it for yourself like I wish I did here it goes:
I was really loving this dark romance but towards the end we started getting closer and closer to the end of the book with no resolution on his dead/missing sister and the lies that he had told her. I was hoping there was going to be a good explanation and maybe some groveling where he made up for lying. Instead he gets shot and is hospitalized while Charlotte goes to meet with a doctor about him. Turns out, he's just crazy. He is actually delusional and his sister really never existed and he believes all the things he's told her like his friend being alive and that the mob was after her not him. And the epilogue concludes with her just deciding to go along with his delusions for life because she loves him. (!!!!!!!) I just couldn't believe that the reveal was that he's actually brain damaged/mentally unwell and fully delusional and there was no resolution on any of the lies. Literally so frustrated by the loose ends that were tied up this way. And it seems like way more of a HFN than a HEA because he is not!! well!!! and she is just agreeing with him instead of getting him help???? Wild, absolutely bonkers
I was really loving this dark romance but towards the end we started getting closer and closer to the end of the book with no resolution on his dead/missing sister and the lies that he had told her. I was hoping there was going to be a good explanation and maybe some groveling where he made up for lying. Instead he gets shot and is hospitalized while Charlotte goes to meet with a doctor about him. Turns out, he's just crazy. He is actually delusional and his sister really never existed and he believes all the things he's told her like his friend being alive and that the mob was after her not him. And the epilogue concludes with her just deciding to go along with his delusions for life because she loves him. (!!!!!!!) I just couldn't believe that the reveal was that he's actually brain damaged/mentally unwell and fully delusional and there was no resolution on any of the lies. Literally so frustrated by the loose ends that were tied up this way. And it seems like way more of a HFN than a HEA because he is not!! well!!! and she is just agreeing with him instead of getting him help???? Wild, absolutely bonkers
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2023
Wow ...what a moving story ... a tad confusing as this appears to be 2 stories in one... yet the epilogue says it's the end of Elijah and Charlotte's story ....yet we see the Villain's Captive as another book but appears to be part of the duet ?? I really wished this was not the case, I would really like to know if Elijah was indeed a mentally unbalanced :0 somehow I prefer to believe that he wasn't, that perhaps Ellie was really his actual sister ?? It's really sad this ending for me ...poor Charlotte ...I feel
her pain not knowing for sure yet having to accept, and love him .... a very consuming read, intriguing and was definitely twisted !! a tear jerker, but yes .... very dark indeed !!
her pain not knowing for sure yet having to accept, and love him .... a very consuming read, intriguing and was definitely twisted !! a tear jerker, but yes .... very dark indeed !!
August 19, 2023
Most of the reviews are good for this book so I feel like I should like it more than I did. This is the entire story of Elijah and Charlotte and it is dark and twisted. Often that means in the bedroom, but in this case that consisted of mostly rough sex with dark and twisted being more emotional. Elijah's treatment of Charlotte is inconsistent, sometimes cruel and sometimes kind. After the way he treated her, I think it's unlikely that she would develop feelings for him. Some of the mind games felt unnecessary and unkind and were just a way he wanted to control her. I'm still not sure what Saint's role was in everything and which memories were true and which were false. Regardless, there were definitely lies he told which remain unexplained and were not false memories.
September 10, 2021
The Villain box set is a duet of the dark stalker mafia variety by Bella J. Elijah is a hitman the Musician with a dark history and observing his obsession for years. When Charlotte meets her stalker her life is completely flipped upside down. This is one gritty, action filled book, full of twists, suspense, intrigue and surprisingly heartbreaking moments. The steam level is off the charts with Elijah being very much a dominating character and the chemistry between them is sizzling. I definitely need to read more of Bella J books in future.
June 1, 2023
I would give this book 10 stars if I could!
Elijah and Charlotte’s story is a unique heartbreaking dark romance and suspenseful dark story. It kept me guessing until the end about Elijah and the happenings in his mind. Charlotte lives in confusion of how she can feel scared and love what Elijah does to her. But as they say, love conquers all. This is a story I could not put down once I started it. Bella J., this is a real gem of a story.
Elijah and Charlotte’s story is a unique heartbreaking dark romance and suspenseful dark story. It kept me guessing until the end about Elijah and the happenings in his mind. Charlotte lives in confusion of how she can feel scared and love what Elijah does to her. But as they say, love conquers all. This is a story I could not put down once I started it. Bella J., this is a real gem of a story.
July 16, 2024
This book was amazing. Full of twists and turns.
Elijah is a deadly assassin. Lurking in the shadows stalking his prey. But what happens when the prey becomes more than just a mark? Charlotte plays cello privately wishing her stage fright would allow her to play in front of a crowd. Her music entices Elijah and instead of killing her takes her as his. But when lines are blurred and truths revealed. Will this
taboo relationship remain.
Elijah is a deadly assassin. Lurking in the shadows stalking his prey. But what happens when the prey becomes more than just a mark? Charlotte plays cello privately wishing her stage fright would allow her to play in front of a crowd. Her music entices Elijah and instead of killing her takes her as his. But when lines are blurred and truths revealed. Will this
taboo relationship remain.
September 3, 2024
Phenomenal
It's one of the best books I have ever read. Elijah will stay with me forever. This story kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I could not read it fast enough. And to top it all off, we get to see Saint once more be the amazing and intriguing man that he is. A billion stars for this book. 5 stars is not nearly enough.
It's one of the best books I have ever read. Elijah will stay with me forever. This story kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I could not read it fast enough. And to top it all off, we get to see Saint once more be the amazing and intriguing man that he is. A billion stars for this book. 5 stars is not nearly enough.
September 6, 2021
This box-set is everything you want to have, if you love Mafia-lovestories.
Elijah is a hitman for the Italian Mafia. Charlotte is a cellist with great talent, but can't play as a professional, because of an illness.
Those 2 characters are discribed perfect, so you can imagine them easily. And in my opinion the cover fits like a glove and that's how I would imagine Elijah.
In this story you will be carried in a darker world of drugs, blood and much more.
This book fascinated me from the beginning and I can't stop reading.
Elijah is a hitman for the Italian Mafia. Charlotte is a cellist with great talent, but can't play as a professional, because of an illness.
Those 2 characters are discribed perfect, so you can imagine them easily. And in my opinion the cover fits like a glove and that's how I would imagine Elijah.
In this story you will be carried in a darker world of drugs, blood and much more.
This book fascinated me from the beginning and I can't stop reading.
Read
September 19, 2021Couldn’t get into this book. The writing just didn’t click with me and I couldn’t connect to either character. I liked the premise, I just wish the execution was better. Also, few writers can do I italicized flashbacks right, and this book would’ve been better without them.
September 21, 2022
incredible story
Omg. Bella j is an incredibly talented author. I actually felt like I was going to collapse from the intense storyline. This is an amazing read. It’s so sad and heartbreaking. The musician and the cellist. Do your self a favour and read this book.
Omg. Bella j is an incredibly talented author. I actually felt like I was going to collapse from the intense storyline. This is an amazing read. It’s so sad and heartbreaking. The musician and the cellist. Do your self a favour and read this book.
February 6, 2024
I loved the book right up till the end, I wanted more from him, I hated that he was just crazy and nothing was real I really wanted them to find Ella. Grrr this book had my attention then ticked me off in the last 15 minutes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2024
Mafia romance yes please! The stalking was a bit much but oh my gosh such thriller and the plot twist at the end was not expecting that. Elijah went through so so much trauma that his brain was making up these memories I feel bad for him. But OH the spicy scenes were giving!!! 5/5 spicy chilies
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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