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Shadows and Obsessions Duet #1
Bones Deep
A dark and perverse love story that takes the term ‘energy exchange’ to a whole new level.
HAZY'S life has been a rollercoaster of abuse, debauchery, and razorblades. Preyed upon by her own acerbic shadows, her inner world is one of haunted turmoil. Until a man she crossed paths with over a decade prior sets his sights on her across a waiting room.
BANKS is a man buried deep in underworld crime. With questionable morals and a bottomless supply of whiskey, his illicit dealings and revolving door of women have sated him… until now.
Bones Deep is a psychological thriller that follows the promiscuous Hazy, forced into a sinister and dangerous playground of a fictitious, modern-day Sydney. A world where Banks is boss; his depraved obsessions rapidly become Hazy’s new painful pleasure filled reality. To what lengths will she push herself, as she plunges deeper into oblivion with a sadistic man hell bent on owning her, collar and all.
Readers beware, this dark romance novel is taboo and meant for open minded adults only. The themes could make you feel uncomfortable or trigger emotional distress.
Author's Note: Book One ends on a cliffhanger, but Book Two completes the duet.
HAZY'S life has been a rollercoaster of abuse, debauchery, and razorblades. Preyed upon by her own acerbic shadows, her inner world is one of haunted turmoil. Until a man she crossed paths with over a decade prior sets his sights on her across a waiting room.
BANKS is a man buried deep in underworld crime. With questionable morals and a bottomless supply of whiskey, his illicit dealings and revolving door of women have sated him… until now.
Bones Deep is a psychological thriller that follows the promiscuous Hazy, forced into a sinister and dangerous playground of a fictitious, modern-day Sydney. A world where Banks is boss; his depraved obsessions rapidly become Hazy’s new painful pleasure filled reality. To what lengths will she push herself, as she plunges deeper into oblivion with a sadistic man hell bent on owning her, collar and all.
Readers beware, this dark romance novel is taboo and meant for open minded adults only. The themes could make you feel uncomfortable or trigger emotional distress.
Author's Note: Book One ends on a cliffhanger, but Book Two completes the duet.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 9, 2023
203 people are currently reading
753 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 10, 2023
***Triggers***
There are a lot of triggers in this book. A lot more than I anticipated but I do not have any.
Thank you for the ARC! Loved this book!
Hazy is handed over to pedophiles at a young age and escapes but did not escape the trauma that came with it. When she initially escapes, she runs into this man whilst covered in blood. 13 years later, she sees him again. Hazel is not getting away this time and Banks makes sure of it. She thought she was crazy, Banks will teach her they are made for each other. And boy oh boy do they connect. This is an enemies to lovers, kidnapping, CNC, 🩸 play, talk of r@p3 amongst other things but it truly made the story what it was.
There are a lot of triggers in this book. A lot more than I anticipated but I do not have any.
Thank you for the ARC! Loved this book!
Hazy is handed over to pedophiles at a young age and escapes but did not escape the trauma that came with it. When she initially escapes, she runs into this man whilst covered in blood. 13 years later, she sees him again. Hazel is not getting away this time and Banks makes sure of it. She thought she was crazy, Banks will teach her they are made for each other. And boy oh boy do they connect. This is an enemies to lovers, kidnapping, CNC, 🩸 play, talk of r@p3 amongst other things but it truly made the story what it was.
July 24, 2023
3.5 mainly because I am into dark reading but this is quite dark. definitely check TW. It was a very good story with great characters overall. Just not my cup of tea!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 26, 2023
wow. 5 big stars.
I’m not sure “enjoy” is the word I would use for this book. The plunge in to the female main characters psyche was incredibly rough and overwhelming at times, and yet so epically and beautifully written that I have to give it five stars. The sex was also super kinky.
I’m not sure “enjoy” is the word I would use for this book. The plunge in to the female main characters psyche was incredibly rough and overwhelming at times, and yet so epically and beautifully written that I have to give it five stars. The sex was also super kinky.
March 17, 2023
Had the privilege of Reading this ARC today!
Bones deep is by Australian author @ivygravesart! Check your triggers because there’s a few!!!
Bones Deep is a dark romance/psychological thriller that follows a damaged and promiscuous Hazy. As a teenager Hazy had a brief encounter with random stranger, Banks. 13years later banks Finally finds Hazy again.
BANKS is a man buried deep in underworld crime. With questionable morals and a bottomless supply of whiskey, his illicit dealings and revolving door of women have sated him… until Hazy.
Bones deep is by Australian author @ivygravesart! Check your triggers because there’s a few!!!
Bones Deep is a dark romance/psychological thriller that follows a damaged and promiscuous Hazy. As a teenager Hazy had a brief encounter with random stranger, Banks. 13years later banks Finally finds Hazy again.
BANKS is a man buried deep in underworld crime. With questionable morals and a bottomless supply of whiskey, his illicit dealings and revolving door of women have sated him… until Hazy.
January 19, 2024
5 star - Check trigger warnings
5-stars immediately for the acknowledgement of country and the recognition of indigenous and pasific nation peoples.
Ivy Graves is inclusive of minorities in such a different way. Like, the Māori/islander guy is filthy rich and depraved. The goth girl with an eating disorder is desired.
The writing dragged me through every page and I just could not stop reading. Genuinely disappointed that this book ended, but so happy I get to read the next one!
Could not put this book down!
5-stars immediately for the acknowledgement of country and the recognition of indigenous and pasific nation peoples.
Ivy Graves is inclusive of minorities in such a different way. Like, the Māori/islander guy is filthy rich and depraved. The goth girl with an eating disorder is desired.
The writing dragged me through every page and I just could not stop reading. Genuinely disappointed that this book ended, but so happy I get to read the next one!
Could not put this book down!
June 21, 2024
I can’t even describe how uniquely fantastic this is!!!!
I don’t know how I stumbled across this book but Ivy has made me speechless with how good this is. I feel like my review won’t even begin to do this read justice. ****Please read TWs because this does cover some very sensitive topics****
Hazy is a woman who is just surviving and not living. Her present life being born of her hellish past, she may seem weak at first glance but this heroine is so strong. I adore her sass and fight so much.
Banks is a man who has a unique set of skills and dominates the attention of everyone when he enters a room. I am intrigued with this guy so much, with his twisted past and the way it shaped his future self - it’s a unique puzzle box that I love diving into.
This talented author has created a story with two characters that accidentally meet on an eventful night that caused a major shift in each other’s lives...only for them to meet up again years later on purpose. I love how this has a little of everything - a touch of taboo and forbidden with a dash of gritty and raw topped off with an air of suspense. Ivy covered sensitive issues with a real outlook and atmosphere, not just glazing over them but diving into the nightmarish heart. I adore how she really brought these characters to life, leaving me with a need to see them get their much deserved happy ending. I will definitely be diving into the second book.
I don’t know how I stumbled across this book but Ivy has made me speechless with how good this is. I feel like my review won’t even begin to do this read justice. ****Please read TWs because this does cover some very sensitive topics****
Hazy is a woman who is just surviving and not living. Her present life being born of her hellish past, she may seem weak at first glance but this heroine is so strong. I adore her sass and fight so much.
Banks is a man who has a unique set of skills and dominates the attention of everyone when he enters a room. I am intrigued with this guy so much, with his twisted past and the way it shaped his future self - it’s a unique puzzle box that I love diving into.
This talented author has created a story with two characters that accidentally meet on an eventful night that caused a major shift in each other’s lives...only for them to meet up again years later on purpose. I love how this has a little of everything - a touch of taboo and forbidden with a dash of gritty and raw topped off with an air of suspense. Ivy covered sensitive issues with a real outlook and atmosphere, not just glazing over them but diving into the nightmarish heart. I adore how she really brought these characters to life, leaving me with a need to see them get their much deserved happy ending. I will definitely be diving into the second book.
March 12, 2023
Well where do I begin! The book was like nothing I’ve ever read before! A story of abuse, neglect, self harm, kink, love, wrapped up in one hell of a package.
Hazy had been mistreated most of her young life, used, abused, fed to the worst in society. Finally leaving that world behind her she starts her journey into adulthood self harming, not caring if she lives or dies, treating her body with no care. Sleeping around, drug abuse hating herself to the point she has an eating disorder.
Their love story started when Hazy was sixteen years old, when she was running from the abuse, covered in blood, he tried to help her, but she ran. It wasn’t until years later they are reunited in an eating disorder clinic, Banks has been searching for Hazy since the first moment he met her as isn’t letting go of his obsession again. They have a unique relationship, loving kink, macabre, the dark side of life and fit together so perfectly.
This book is dark having lots of triggers, certainly not for the faint hearted so please don’t ignore the warnings. I cannot wait for book two, as I feel we are only getting to know the surface of the characters, book two will give us more depth, depravities and kink. I’m hoping Hazy gets her revenge on the abusive paedophilic people from her past!
I received this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.
Hazy had been mistreated most of her young life, used, abused, fed to the worst in society. Finally leaving that world behind her she starts her journey into adulthood self harming, not caring if she lives or dies, treating her body with no care. Sleeping around, drug abuse hating herself to the point she has an eating disorder.
Their love story started when Hazy was sixteen years old, when she was running from the abuse, covered in blood, he tried to help her, but she ran. It wasn’t until years later they are reunited in an eating disorder clinic, Banks has been searching for Hazy since the first moment he met her as isn’t letting go of his obsession again. They have a unique relationship, loving kink, macabre, the dark side of life and fit together so perfectly.
This book is dark having lots of triggers, certainly not for the faint hearted so please don’t ignore the warnings. I cannot wait for book two, as I feel we are only getting to know the surface of the characters, book two will give us more depth, depravities and kink. I’m hoping Hazy gets her revenge on the abusive paedophilic people from her past!
I received this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2023
Book: Bones Deep
Read By: Ebook
Author: Ivy Graves
Genre: Romance
Recommend: Yes
Spice:🌶️️🌶️️🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Where can I vote for audio???
Cause if this was audio it would be even hotter than it was. I loved this! There are a lot of triggers in this book, but I like to run head-first towards red flags, so this was amazing for me.
“You’re right about that, my girl. Forever. Not even death will tear you from me because I would follow you into the abyss, haunting you.”
I loved how some of the worst subjects are spoken about and addressed, I know a lot of people say how can you read dark romance, this right here is why. If you have had anything happen to you this is the type of book that soothes the soul and helps you to accept that you can move on.
Her eyes let me know she is flying. This girl, is built to withstand anything I throw at her. I know just how to work her little body when she doesn’t even know what she needs herself.
I highly Recommend.
Read By: Ebook
Author: Ivy Graves
Genre: Romance
Recommend: Yes
Spice:🌶️️🌶️️🌶️️
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Where can I vote for audio???
Cause if this was audio it would be even hotter than it was. I loved this! There are a lot of triggers in this book, but I like to run head-first towards red flags, so this was amazing for me.
“You’re right about that, my girl. Forever. Not even death will tear you from me because I would follow you into the abyss, haunting you.”
I loved how some of the worst subjects are spoken about and addressed, I know a lot of people say how can you read dark romance, this right here is why. If you have had anything happen to you this is the type of book that soothes the soul and helps you to accept that you can move on.
Her eyes let me know she is flying. This girl, is built to withstand anything I throw at her. I know just how to work her little body when she doesn’t even know what she needs herself.
I highly Recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2023
Wow, wow and... wow.
Firstly, ⚠️check the trigger warnings before reading⚠️.
I signed up to arc read this and when the author described this as having "all triggers", she meant it!! I ate this up it was so damn good.
I loved the story, I loved the writing and I loved the characters.
This is the debut book for new author Ivy Graves and she knocked it out of the park! It was dark right from the get go and it had me entranced the whole way through. It was so deliciously disturbing, full of all the twisted dirtiness one comes to love in a dark romance as such.
The story of Hazy and Banks tugged at my emotions. Hazy going through what she has and is still going through breaks your heart for her. Banks' past, although taboo, still made my heart leap for his story.
Being an Aussie myself I highly enjoyed the Australian setting and Aussie slang throughout this book.
I highly recommend this to any dark romance lover who tick off triggers like its their shopping list. Well done Ivy Graves on an amazing first release. I'll be impatiently waiting for book two.
Firstly, ⚠️check the trigger warnings before reading⚠️.
I signed up to arc read this and when the author described this as having "all triggers", she meant it!! I ate this up it was so damn good.
I loved the story, I loved the writing and I loved the characters.
This is the debut book for new author Ivy Graves and she knocked it out of the park! It was dark right from the get go and it had me entranced the whole way through. It was so deliciously disturbing, full of all the twisted dirtiness one comes to love in a dark romance as such.
The story of Hazy and Banks tugged at my emotions. Hazy going through what she has and is still going through breaks your heart for her. Banks' past, although taboo, still made my heart leap for his story.
Being an Aussie myself I highly enjoyed the Australian setting and Aussie slang throughout this book.
I highly recommend this to any dark romance lover who tick off triggers like its their shopping list. Well done Ivy Graves on an amazing first release. I'll be impatiently waiting for book two.
March 26, 2023
High trigger warning.
Appreciate the story, but the message it gives on ED is not overly responsible. To say that some rich guy can help heal a ED better than therapy, then briefly mention he’s brought in therapists, rather than dedicate a chapter on one of her therapy sessions, and the importance on receiving professional support, would of not only built character for both MMC and MFC, it would also reinforce the importance of therapy.
Other than that the read was alright. I didn’t feel invested in the characters, which made it a less easy read. But I finished it, and it certainly does pick up around 75% of the way through
Appreciate the story, but the message it gives on ED is not overly responsible. To say that some rich guy can help heal a ED better than therapy, then briefly mention he’s brought in therapists, rather than dedicate a chapter on one of her therapy sessions, and the importance on receiving professional support, would of not only built character for both MMC and MFC, it would also reinforce the importance of therapy.
Other than that the read was alright. I didn’t feel invested in the characters, which made it a less easy read. But I finished it, and it certainly does pick up around 75% of the way through
Read
July 28, 2024I don’t think I have an opinion. I picked up the book and got interested because the author is Aussie so I thought “oh well that sounds incredible!”. I feel a bit disgusted but I guess that was the idea. I honestly don’t think the author woke up one day and thought “oh I’m gonna write something poetic and romantic and people will love it”, she most probably woke up one day and chose violence and trauma lol. Check TW before starting, I haven’t checked so when I read about the incest past I almost gave up. Then came the GS. And then I started skipping whole paragraphs because at that point I couldn’t care less.
July 29, 2023
It’s hard to say you like or enjoy these types of story when they are very dark, the writing and story is amazing, the characters and their stories so well researched and represented, please do check the trigger’s before starting this, because it may cause upset if you don’t. This is part dark romance and part psychological thriller, but if you are ok with the triggers this is dark, dirty and sexy read and I need the second to see how it ends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 14, 2023
Wow just wow this was intense and so intense heed the warnings it starts full force from page one and there is no stopping. This was written to perfection with very troubled intense chapters that I have fallen in love with. Banks and Hazey are easy to fall in love with. Hazey and Banks are so different they compliment each other in their unique steamy style and banter. I'm hooked in their darkness.
March 17, 2023
At first I was unsure how I felt about this book, but soon I figured out that I enjoyed reading this book. I liked the characters even though they are crazy and the storyline was easy to follow. This book does end with a cliffhanger but it was not one that left me upset. It was still one that made me want to read the next book. I would read this book again and I am excited for the next book to see what happens.
March 25, 2023
Ughhhh. Delightfully twisted and truly satisfying. I fell deeply in love with the characters and love the Australian references. It was hard to put this down and I devoured it promptly. I can't wait to read more from Ivy Graves!
March 9, 2023
***Watch the trigger warnings before reading***
Bones Deep by Ivy Graves
First this book is well written and I love the Australian slang!
The main characters Banks and Hazey are easy to fall in love with. Hazey’s internal fit with her ED and mental health are relatable.
Oh man if you are into dark romance and smut this book is for you! I was hooked from the first page! It is such a fast pace read. At first I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to stomach the first few chapters, but it was so worth it.
I cannot wait for Knuckles Deep!
Bones Deep by Ivy Graves
First this book is well written and I love the Australian slang!
The main characters Banks and Hazey are easy to fall in love with. Hazey’s internal fit with her ED and mental health are relatable.
Oh man if you are into dark romance and smut this book is for you! I was hooked from the first page! It is such a fast pace read. At first I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to stomach the first few chapters, but it was so worth it.
I cannot wait for Knuckles Deep!
March 12, 2023
My first experience with Ivy Graves and I was so intrigued! It took a while for my interest to kick in, but once it did, I was hooked! Written incredibly well and was satisfying to my depraved mind! Looking forward for the next installment! Awesome read!
March 16, 2023
Put it this way I’m still processing this book but I’m dying to start the next one! What a roller coaster I was on while reading this one - I got sucked right in!
March 16, 2023
really good book
No spoilers. I enjoyed reading this it really good can’t wait to read the second part of this book series.
No spoilers. I enjoyed reading this it really good can’t wait to read the second part of this book series.
June 5, 2023
3/5⭐️
‼️READ THE TRIGGERS WARNING‼️
This book isn’t my first dark romance but it’s my first time reading a book with certain triggers. This first experience had highly influenced my rating. I wasn’t really in the book until like the 75-80% of the book. I was close to DNF but decided to push my annoyance away and finish the book. And yet I’m quite confused whether I liked the book or not!
Anyways, let’s move on to the review…
I really liked the awareness about ED’s and self-harm, it’s really informative and true, I hadn’t seen a single misconception and I’m really happy about it.
Hazy is well build character with big efforts put into, I would like to congratulate the author for putting so much effort into making her true and relatable! Hazy is a lonely soul but with such wonderful friends, I hope to see them more in the second book. They may not be the best influence I think but they’re still really cool.
Banks…I’m still parted, a part of me liked him and the other part not much! There’s certain moments where the situation made me dislike him. I won’t spoil anything or what but his past is fucked up and I didn’t really liked some parts. But that’s different for everyone, y’all should definitely read it and make you own opinion.
I think that I should continue with the second book, I’m still curious about lots of things!
❣️I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.❣️
‼️READ THE TRIGGERS WARNING‼️
This book isn’t my first dark romance but it’s my first time reading a book with certain triggers. This first experience had highly influenced my rating. I wasn’t really in the book until like the 75-80% of the book. I was close to DNF but decided to push my annoyance away and finish the book. And yet I’m quite confused whether I liked the book or not!
Anyways, let’s move on to the review…
I really liked the awareness about ED’s and self-harm, it’s really informative and true, I hadn’t seen a single misconception and I’m really happy about it.
Hazy is well build character with big efforts put into, I would like to congratulate the author for putting so much effort into making her true and relatable! Hazy is a lonely soul but with such wonderful friends, I hope to see them more in the second book. They may not be the best influence I think but they’re still really cool.
Banks…I’m still parted, a part of me liked him and the other part not much! There’s certain moments where the situation made me dislike him. I won’t spoil anything or what but his past is fucked up and I didn’t really liked some parts. But that’s different for everyone, y’all should definitely read it and make you own opinion.
I think that I should continue with the second book, I’m still curious about lots of things!
❣️I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.❣️
August 9, 2023
I'm not sure how to feel. The writing flows nicely, the story kept my attention, and the characters had depth. This is not the book for anybody with triggers, that's for sure. And I'm okay with that part. I was okay with most of it actually, until I got to 77%, and then I had a bit of a crisis. I knew Banks was way past the line of moralistic tendencies, but I wasn't expecting the depth of his apathy the way it played out. Having said that, I'm not dinging the author at all. They said it was for those without triggers, and they delivered.
The dynamic between Banks and Hazy switches over time, from straight up enemies upon her "arrival" at his castle to a willing dom/sub relationship, and I do see how his methods improve Hazy's state of being. She needs someone to feel safe with to relinquish control, and he needs to have her in his control. The ending was not a cliffhanger, and if the reader decided to stop at the end of book one, they could, HEA and all. But I'm sure book two will bring its own trials, as we still have to deal with Rosetta and Banks' upcoming trip away from Hazy. It's an intriguing story.
The dynamic between Banks and Hazy switches over time, from straight up enemies upon her "arrival" at his castle to a willing dom/sub relationship, and I do see how his methods improve Hazy's state of being. She needs someone to feel safe with to relinquish control, and he needs to have her in his control. The ending was not a cliffhanger, and if the reader decided to stop at the end of book one, they could, HEA and all. But I'm sure book two will bring its own trials, as we still have to deal with Rosetta and Banks' upcoming trip away from Hazy. It's an intriguing story.
March 26, 2023
*please check your trigger warnings because there are so so many in this book*
I gave this book 3 stars, I enjoyed it in some parts and others it fell a little flat. There were parts that seemed like the information given wasn’t really necessary for the plot, and some pages did seem to feel like it was dragging. It started off very intense and I was captivated as it was intense from the get go, it lost me in the middle and started to pick up in the end. I don’t like books that have book two as a continuation, I’d prefer to have one issue/problem solved with book one then continue into the next book for another storyline. It didn’t finish on a cliffhanger it just, stops? I was a little confused by the choice of ending. Overall, give it a go for sure because why not. I’m still unsure whether I want to continue the story with book 2 though.
I gave this book 3 stars, I enjoyed it in some parts and others it fell a little flat. There were parts that seemed like the information given wasn’t really necessary for the plot, and some pages did seem to feel like it was dragging. It started off very intense and I was captivated as it was intense from the get go, it lost me in the middle and started to pick up in the end. I don’t like books that have book two as a continuation, I’d prefer to have one issue/problem solved with book one then continue into the next book for another storyline. It didn’t finish on a cliffhanger it just, stops? I was a little confused by the choice of ending. Overall, give it a go for sure because why not. I’m still unsure whether I want to continue the story with book 2 though.
June 25, 2025
Amazing! Perfect! Loved every second of this story of abuse, survival, pain, and overcoming all of it! I love a good dark romance and this one has it in spades! The best part though, is that it’s not saturated in every page. The story is a vibrant read of a young woman’s tortured life from an early age and the lengths she goes to in order to “self-medicate” her pain. This I say loosely because my meaning is very obtuse. If you can get past the incredible over the top content warnings you will put this as a top read of 2024!
June 7, 2023
…
Wow, what to say? Please do read the trigger warnings carefully and be prepared to feel like shit at times to the point you start overthinking shit.
Hazy was basically molested and groomed, amongst other things, by two people she considered caring and protective from the age of 5 to 16 years. And she most likely would've continued to be taken advantage of if she didn't get 1 second of bravery and courage and constant determination. It was hard to digest what happened to her, made me scared. This is just a book to me but scariest thing is that it actually happened and maybe currently happening around the globe. And to the adults that take advantage of these YOUNG INNOCENT CHILDREN THAT ONLY WANTS SOMEONE TO LOVE AND PROTECT THEM. WHO ONLY WANTS A RESPONSIBLE ADULT IN THEIR LIFE. Fuck you and I hope you get what's coming to you and you're tortured in the deepest darkest depths of Tartarus. Because that shit just doesn't go away. It scars the kids in ways I can only imagine which wouldn't be 100% accurate and some of them do not have strong support.
Hazy dealt with her trauma by harming herself and the occasional suicidal thoughts. She became anorexic because of the things they said to her.
Now 13 years after she escaped, she met Banks and he wants her. He likes her. He's seen others go through the same things Hazy does to herself to cope and he wants to fix her. So what does he do? He kidnaps her so he can help her heal like a normal person does...at least normal in dark romance. I love that he helps her through everything. And the physical self harm she inflicts upon herself to make the emotional pain less, Banks takes over in a way that wouldn't risk her being admitted to the hospital. And she likes that he cares so much. He wants her to heal, gain some weight (she's 40kg and still trying to lose weight) and start having a good relationship with food. I'll be honest. Her being 40kg and thinking to herself that she's an ugly fat cow triggered me. It made me start back exercising because I actually am fat.
Banks saw his lover starve herself to death so he's very adamant on helping Hazy heal. I love that he waited for her to get better before their spicy time.
He's so obsessed with her and I love it. Hazy does too.
“See you soon, my girl. Hazel. We’ll get married soon, I promise!” he calls after me in a sing-song tone, clasping his heart as though we just had a romantic interlude. And he’s not some creepy borderline stalker hunting me down outside my weigh-in clinic. “Hope you like red roses!”
I feel a little smirk on my lips. I enjoyed that. He got my weak heart pumping.
“Hazy!” I turn around, my body not obeying my last thought, and stare at him. “I’m crazy about you, Hazy!” He’s raising his eyebrows repeatedly at me.
The more I discover about her, the more obsessed I am. It’s as though she was made for me. I sniff at the air with a primal obsession. I like to sniff, and god dammit, I like the way this woman smells.
I'll stop quoting now.
"Hazy could see the real me. I showed her my shrivelled-up heart, and she didn’t bolt. Like the fucking dark goddess she is. My dark goddess."
Okay now.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Plot: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Trauma: 😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 - give me more. All I'm saying is BDSM. Caliente.
Oh and a particularly traumatising scene for me, in spicy time, is the golden shower. No kink/fetish shaming. You do you. Or them 😭.
That being said. I really loved Bones Deep and I love the ending. I'm scared for Knuckles Deep because Hazy has been through enough shit and deserves her happily ever after. But I am excited to see her get her revenge.
“One day, I’ll make you pay for what you’ve done to me. Stupid. Fuckin’. BITCH!”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow, what to say? Please do read the trigger warnings carefully and be prepared to feel like shit at times to the point you start overthinking shit.
Hazy was basically molested and groomed, amongst other things, by two people she considered caring and protective from the age of 5 to 16 years. And she most likely would've continued to be taken advantage of if she didn't get 1 second of bravery and courage and constant determination. It was hard to digest what happened to her, made me scared. This is just a book to me but scariest thing is that it actually happened and maybe currently happening around the globe. And to the adults that take advantage of these YOUNG INNOCENT CHILDREN THAT ONLY WANTS SOMEONE TO LOVE AND PROTECT THEM. WHO ONLY WANTS A RESPONSIBLE ADULT IN THEIR LIFE. Fuck you and I hope you get what's coming to you and you're tortured in the deepest darkest depths of Tartarus. Because that shit just doesn't go away. It scars the kids in ways I can only imagine which wouldn't be 100% accurate and some of them do not have strong support.
Hazy dealt with her trauma by harming herself and the occasional suicidal thoughts. She became anorexic because of the things they said to her.
Now 13 years after she escaped, she met Banks and he wants her. He likes her. He's seen others go through the same things Hazy does to herself to cope and he wants to fix her. So what does he do? He kidnaps her so he can help her heal like a normal person does...at least normal in dark romance. I love that he helps her through everything. And the physical self harm she inflicts upon herself to make the emotional pain less, Banks takes over in a way that wouldn't risk her being admitted to the hospital. And she likes that he cares so much. He wants her to heal, gain some weight (she's 40kg and still trying to lose weight) and start having a good relationship with food. I'll be honest. Her being 40kg and thinking to herself that she's an ugly fat cow triggered me. It made me start back exercising because I actually am fat.
Banks saw his lover starve herself to death so he's very adamant on helping Hazy heal. I love that he waited for her to get better before their spicy time.
He's so obsessed with her and I love it. Hazy does too.
“See you soon, my girl. Hazel. We’ll get married soon, I promise!” he calls after me in a sing-song tone, clasping his heart as though we just had a romantic interlude. And he’s not some creepy borderline stalker hunting me down outside my weigh-in clinic. “Hope you like red roses!”
I feel a little smirk on my lips. I enjoyed that. He got my weak heart pumping.
“Hazy!” I turn around, my body not obeying my last thought, and stare at him. “I’m crazy about you, Hazy!” He’s raising his eyebrows repeatedly at me.
The more I discover about her, the more obsessed I am. It’s as though she was made for me. I sniff at the air with a primal obsession. I like to sniff, and god dammit, I like the way this woman smells.
I'll stop quoting now.
"Hazy could see the real me. I showed her my shrivelled-up heart, and she didn’t bolt. Like the fucking dark goddess she is. My dark goddess."
Okay now.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Plot: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Trauma: 😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 - give me more. All I'm saying is BDSM. Caliente.
Oh and a particularly traumatising scene for me, in spicy time, is the golden shower. No kink/fetish shaming. You do you. Or them 😭.
That being said. I really loved Bones Deep and I love the ending. I'm scared for Knuckles Deep because Hazy has been through enough shit and deserves her happily ever after. But I am excited to see her get her revenge.
“One day, I’ll make you pay for what you’ve done to me. Stupid. Fuckin’. BITCH!”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 1, 2023
Oh wow 👌 this is one of the books that will have you second guessing your morals. I agree with others, 🙏🏾 please ensure that you read the trigger warnings for this book. Not many are discussed in depth, more like brushed over and experienced/talked about once or twice, but again, if easily triggered, please: caution before entering.
At first, the book felt a little chaotic and all over the place, but once getting settled in, I felt like it lent to the atmosphere and especially getting to know the characters. So I embraced it, and it was a fun ride.
I actually really liked to see Hazy's internal monologs. As someone who also struggles with body dysmorphia, however, not to Hazy's extent, it's kind of comforting being able to relate with a character that much and feel for them on a deeper level. I also loved how she handed her ED. It's wasn't a quick fix. It showed you have to work at it daily, there will be slips, and a support system is important (even if it's a crazy stalking kidnapping soulmate!). I like that he was trying to fix her but not for him really, but for her to appreciate everything he saw she could be again.
The story had a good pace, minor repetition (however not to the extent as some of the authors I have been reading lately) so it didn't get annoying in that sense, if you are someone like me that internally says "yeah, yeah I know you said/did like 6 times already".
It states it ends on a cliffhanger, but not really. It just ends in a spot that's like okay, I can wait until the next episode without going crazy.
I do look forward to reading the next one and seeing where we go. Would definitely like to see Hazy indoctrinated into the seedy underworld and truly become queen and bring her friends along because I can definitely see a side story with Zane appearing soon, and I am for this and also a back story on Swallow!!
At first, the book felt a little chaotic and all over the place, but once getting settled in, I felt like it lent to the atmosphere and especially getting to know the characters. So I embraced it, and it was a fun ride.
I actually really liked to see Hazy's internal monologs. As someone who also struggles with body dysmorphia, however, not to Hazy's extent, it's kind of comforting being able to relate with a character that much and feel for them on a deeper level. I also loved how she handed her ED. It's wasn't a quick fix. It showed you have to work at it daily, there will be slips, and a support system is important (even if it's a crazy stalking kidnapping soulmate!). I like that he was trying to fix her but not for him really, but for her to appreciate everything he saw she could be again.
The story had a good pace, minor repetition (however not to the extent as some of the authors I have been reading lately) so it didn't get annoying in that sense, if you are someone like me that internally says "yeah, yeah I know you said/did like 6 times already".
It states it ends on a cliffhanger, but not really. It just ends in a spot that's like okay, I can wait until the next episode without going crazy.
I do look forward to reading the next one and seeing where we go. Would definitely like to see Hazy indoctrinated into the seedy underworld and truly become queen and bring her friends along because I can definitely see a side story with Zane appearing soon, and I am for this and also a back story on Swallow!!
June 10, 2024
First, please make sure to read the TWs. This book can get very dark at times.
I enjoyed this book. It was hard to put down to do every day things, as I kept wanted to know where Hazy and Banks' story would go. There are a lot of ups and downs with their relationship. Nothing comes easy for them, or their relationship, but you do feel that pull and passion when they are together.
There are times when I'm not sure I like Banks' but you can see through his rough and dark demeanor, that he does care for Hazy. The fact that he prioritizes her health over anything else, shows that. Mind you, the way he goes about it, it far from normal, but he's helping her physically and mentally to get past her demons and to help her want to live. And that makes some of his darker attributes, redeemable.
With Hazy, as much as she talks about ending things, she's a fighter. She's stronger than she knows. The voices inside her head are so strong, and you can feel her struggling for so long. Even after Banks' takes her in and tries to help, the voices are still there, telling her she's not enough.
I'm very curious to see where book 2 will go. Book 1 dealt with some of their past and their coming together, but I feel like we need a big moment in book 2. Rosetta hates Hazy and said that if Banks' fell for her, she'd end her. And Banks is getting ready to go on a trip to Africa. I have a feeling something bad will happen with one of them. Can't wait to read!
I enjoyed this book. It was hard to put down to do every day things, as I kept wanted to know where Hazy and Banks' story would go. There are a lot of ups and downs with their relationship. Nothing comes easy for them, or their relationship, but you do feel that pull and passion when they are together.
There are times when I'm not sure I like Banks' but you can see through his rough and dark demeanor, that he does care for Hazy. The fact that he prioritizes her health over anything else, shows that. Mind you, the way he goes about it, it far from normal, but he's helping her physically and mentally to get past her demons and to help her want to live. And that makes some of his darker attributes, redeemable.
With Hazy, as much as she talks about ending things, she's a fighter. She's stronger than she knows. The voices inside her head are so strong, and you can feel her struggling for so long. Even after Banks' takes her in and tries to help, the voices are still there, telling her she's not enough.
I'm very curious to see where book 2 will go. Book 1 dealt with some of their past and their coming together, but I feel like we need a big moment in book 2. Rosetta hates Hazy and said that if Banks' fell for her, she'd end her. And Banks is getting ready to go on a trip to Africa. I have a feeling something bad will happen with one of them. Can't wait to read!
July 25, 2023
“How is it possible for two people to be so f-ed up and meet perfectly somewhere near the middle?” – Hazy
This tale has it all – and I mean ALL! Check the trigger warnings because this is about as dark as a book can get.
Two broken people searching for each other in the darkness. And when they finally find each other after years of searching, their healing begins.
Banks and Hazy couldn’t be more opposite on the surface, but somehow in the craziness of their lives, they find each other. Two broken people who use their version of love to heal their scars – mental, emotional, and physical scars of tortured lives.
I loved the unfiltered relationship Hazy had with her friends – friends whom I might add, do not fit in any stereotypical boxes themselves.
While the story line wasn’t for me (I’m not going to ding the author for this), I can definitely see how it will resonate with others. So, if you lack TW issues and are looking for the darkest romance that is well-written and delivers all the smexy k*nks around, then this one is for you!
Thank you BookSirens for the ARC! I’m so glad our paths crossed. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This tale has it all – and I mean ALL! Check the trigger warnings because this is about as dark as a book can get.
Two broken people searching for each other in the darkness. And when they finally find each other after years of searching, their healing begins.
Banks and Hazy couldn’t be more opposite on the surface, but somehow in the craziness of their lives, they find each other. Two broken people who use their version of love to heal their scars – mental, emotional, and physical scars of tortured lives.
I loved the unfiltered relationship Hazy had with her friends – friends whom I might add, do not fit in any stereotypical boxes themselves.
While the story line wasn’t for me (I’m not going to ding the author for this), I can definitely see how it will resonate with others. So, if you lack TW issues and are looking for the darkest romance that is well-written and delivers all the smexy k*nks around, then this one is for you!
Thank you BookSirens for the ARC! I’m so glad our paths crossed. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 27, 2024
Jesus the TWs weren't joking. This is OTT graphic violence and I have to admit I had to skim over some of it because it was vomit inducing. For me. For you it might be an absolute joy, a breeze, stuff you read every day for fun. Now that said, providing you have the stomach this is an astounding, beautiful, haunting love story, very original and well paced, brimming with unusual characters, and as hot as hell!!
This finely honed story revolves around Hazel and Banks, two deeply disturbed individuals who, after a chance meeting, find each other many years later. Both wear the torture of their past lives differently: Hazy's is visible in her scars and eating disorder (brilliantly depicted I must add), Banks in his love of cruelty and lost causes. And wow, his love for Hazy simply blew me away!!
Yes, it pushed my boundaries and dragged me into places I didn't want to go, but once I was there, once I was rooting for Hazy and understanding Banks, I realised I'd found a world, as macarbre as it was, that I didn't want to leave, a world that had me so hooked I wanted to be part of it. But most of all I wanted to hate that I was loving it… and couldn't.
I received this as a free arc and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
This finely honed story revolves around Hazel and Banks, two deeply disturbed individuals who, after a chance meeting, find each other many years later. Both wear the torture of their past lives differently: Hazy's is visible in her scars and eating disorder (brilliantly depicted I must add), Banks in his love of cruelty and lost causes. And wow, his love for Hazy simply blew me away!!
Yes, it pushed my boundaries and dragged me into places I didn't want to go, but once I was there, once I was rooting for Hazy and understanding Banks, I realised I'd found a world, as macarbre as it was, that I didn't want to leave, a world that had me so hooked I wanted to be part of it. But most of all I wanted to hate that I was loving it… and couldn't.
I received this as a free arc and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Read
June 5, 2023Wow! It is a dark, dark read!
This is such a dark read and you definitely need to have a open mind when reading it. As the author warns, some of the content could make the reader uncomfortable or trigger emotional distress. She warned you!
Hazy, the female character is, for lack of a better word, broken. And that is apparent thru every aspect of her life since she escaped her child abusers as a child. Banks, lacking pretty much any morals, runs an underworld crime syndicate. But if he shines, it is because he really has a thing against child abuse. When he first set eyes on Hazy the day she escaped her abusers. She quickly disappeared and while he thinks of her often, he moves on in his life of crime. But fate and time, soon have Banks finding Hazy – and he will not let her go. He ensures that she will be his. And along that journey they soon go down the rabbit hole of depravity.
This was quite the interesting read. And, as dark as it is, I find myself wanting to read the conclusion of this duet.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is such a dark read and you definitely need to have a open mind when reading it. As the author warns, some of the content could make the reader uncomfortable or trigger emotional distress. She warned you!
Hazy, the female character is, for lack of a better word, broken. And that is apparent thru every aspect of her life since she escaped her child abusers as a child. Banks, lacking pretty much any morals, runs an underworld crime syndicate. But if he shines, it is because he really has a thing against child abuse. When he first set eyes on Hazy the day she escaped her abusers. She quickly disappeared and while he thinks of her often, he moves on in his life of crime. But fate and time, soon have Banks finding Hazy – and he will not let her go. He ensures that she will be his. And along that journey they soon go down the rabbit hole of depravity.
This was quite the interesting read. And, as dark as it is, I find myself wanting to read the conclusion of this duet.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2023
Bones Deep
4 stars
This may just be one of the dirtiest/kinkiest books I’ve read. And yes, I’m totally ok with that! There are some very dark matters addressed also, so check your triggers, apparently I have none 🤷🏼♀️
We meet Hazel “Hazy/Bones”, as a sixteen year old girl, and holy cow did that introduction hit hard. It pulled me so far in that I couldn’t put the book down.
We then meet “Hazy” again as a grown adult. A woman with emotional baggage, severe suicidal tendencies, self harm and an eating disorder. She’s living what she thinks is HER best life, but it’s not a life at all. The voice in her head is always telling her all the negative things she believes about herself. Along comes Banks, who is obsessed with her beyond reason. He kidnaps her and tries to “heal” her. This is their story, mostly Hazy’s story, but Banks is a key component into Hazy’s healing. They are a sadist and masochist dream team and enjoy torturing each other in the best ways.
This book is a super spicy read. Like, SO HOT 🥵
I’m definitely eager for more of their story because I feel like there were a lot of unfinished storylines.
4 stars
This may just be one of the dirtiest/kinkiest books I’ve read. And yes, I’m totally ok with that! There are some very dark matters addressed also, so check your triggers, apparently I have none 🤷🏼♀️
We meet Hazel “Hazy/Bones”, as a sixteen year old girl, and holy cow did that introduction hit hard. It pulled me so far in that I couldn’t put the book down.
We then meet “Hazy” again as a grown adult. A woman with emotional baggage, severe suicidal tendencies, self harm and an eating disorder. She’s living what she thinks is HER best life, but it’s not a life at all. The voice in her head is always telling her all the negative things she believes about herself. Along comes Banks, who is obsessed with her beyond reason. He kidnaps her and tries to “heal” her. This is their story, mostly Hazy’s story, but Banks is a key component into Hazy’s healing. They are a sadist and masochist dream team and enjoy torturing each other in the best ways.
This book is a super spicy read. Like, SO HOT 🥵
I’m definitely eager for more of their story because I feel like there were a lot of unfinished storylines.
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