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emotional
hopeful
inspiring
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Who doesn’t want more Rhage, and his transformation into Daddy makes it even better. Plus great side plots with Assail.
My interest in BDB had been flagging with the last book, but this one renewed it wholeheartedly. I loved having a book that revisited so many of my favorite characters, and for the first time in a while I’m intrigued by some of the new characters Ward has brought in. Also, I really appreciated that this story provided so many different perspectives on both grief and “happily ever afters.” Specifically, I loved that the book acknowledged through Vishous and Jane that having babies isn’t a requisite for a couple’s happiness or a woman’s fulfillment. I loved the brief checkin with Tohr and how he was feeling about Layla’s babies being in distress. And I loved that Rhage and Mary were able to start down the road toward adoption when having biological children didn’t turn out to be in the cards for them.
I do think the resolution with Bitty was too easy—unless perhaps some of the later books will address more issues about her abuse and grief—but ... I badly needed a happy ending right now and this book delivered and then some, so whatever. I was smiling like a goof by the end :)
I do think the resolution with Bitty was too easy—unless perhaps some of the later books will address more issues about her abuse and grief—but ... I badly needed a happy ending right now and this book delivered and then some, so whatever. I was smiling like a goof by the end :)
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
⭐️ 4 stars – The Beast by J.R. Ward
This book gave me all the feels! Seeing Rhage and Mary step into a new chapter of their lives was both heartwarming and powerful. Their journey toward building a family felt so genuine and emotional — I truly rooted for them every step of the way. ❤️
Also… I’m honestly shocked, but I started to like Assail?? The man is slowly but surely earning his place, and his arc is becoming more and more interesting. I loved watching him take small steps toward redemption and begin to connect with the Brotherhood in a real way.
And Z? Zsadist is always intense, but seeing his need for justice for Marcus in this book really hit me.
Such a solid, emotionally rich read — full of character growth, connection, and quiet strength
This book gave me all the feels! Seeing Rhage and Mary step into a new chapter of their lives was both heartwarming and powerful. Their journey toward building a family felt so genuine and emotional — I truly rooted for them every step of the way. ❤️
Also… I’m honestly shocked, but I started to like Assail?? The man is slowly but surely earning his place, and his arc is becoming more and more interesting. I loved watching him take small steps toward redemption and begin to connect with the Brotherhood in a real way.
And Z? Zsadist is always intense, but seeing his need for justice for Marcus in this book really hit me.
Such a solid, emotionally rich read — full of character growth, connection, and quiet strength
The Beast was excellent as have all the books written by J. R. Ward. I preordered the e-book when it was first available and was aghast at the exorbitant price tag of $13.99 for an e-book. . I will be waiting for the next book to become available at the library. This purchase took a big chunk out of my monthly book budget.
J.R. Ward is a talented author and should be reimbursed fairly for the entertainment she provides through her books. I believe here publisher is taking advantage of the reader's in pricing the e-book as such. Equally talented authors including Kristen Ashley, Suzanne Brockmann, Laura Griffin and Karen Rose do not charge this amount for an e-book.
my 2 cents.
J.R. Ward is a talented author and should be reimbursed fairly for the entertainment she provides through her books. I believe here publisher is taking advantage of the reader's in pricing the e-book as such. Equally talented authors including Kristen Ashley, Suzanne Brockmann, Laura Griffin and Karen Rose do not charge this amount for an e-book.
my 2 cents.
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
After Trez had a not-so-happy ending in the last book, this story was a delight. There is a lot of heavy stuff going on, but there is also the camaraderie, found family, teasing, and everyday love that initially drew me into this series. Unfortunately, I can’t say too much about most of it so as not to give anything away, but I’ll do my best.
This book is titled after Rhage, and it’s almost a marriage-in-trouble sort of story in the beginning. No surprise after the thoughts Rhage was having in the previous book. Rhage makes some stupid moves, Mary keeps things to herself, and the distance is felt. It doesn’t last too terribly long because the couple is eventually forced to talk to one another. What blossoms from their discussions is a beautiful reawakening of their romance and a newfound desire to have a family. I’m not going to ruin things by giving too much away, but Rhage and Bitty are adorable together. In fact, once Bitty starts to let her true self come out, Bitty is an amazing treat in this book. I cannot wait to see what is in store for her.
Bitty’s not the only one who caught my interest. There are a couple of other new characters introduced, one in a shocking way, who I think will have prominence in the future. While their stories were brief, I feel they were both important. Jo is in a situation of “curiosity killed the cat”, but I’m enjoying her and audibly gasped when part of her past was revealed. Jo is smart, quick-witted, kind, no-nonsense, and strong-willed. I have no doubt she will hold her own once she arrives on the BDB radar.
Layla also played a prominent part in this book. Again, I cannot say much. Her book is next, so you know things are coming to a head. Not just with her, but also with Xcor, and with the babies.
The last 20% of this book was firing on all cylinders. A lot was happening. Some of it was edge of your seat stuff, and some was the building of bonds. I didn’t want to put it down.
Note: I started the Black Dagger Legacy series, and the reading order shows that the first book, Blood Kiss, comes before this book. While the recruits/training are mentioned in this story, they play no part in the narrative. I’m a completionist so I feel compelled to read them all in order, but if you don’t mind not reading that other series along with this one, there was nothing that you’d be missing out on so far. Although, I will say it was a fantastic book and Butch and Marissa featured prominently if you are a big fan of that couple.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Domestic abuse, Drug abuse, Infertility, Misogyny, Slavery, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, Grief, Medical trauma, Death of parent, Pregnancy
Moderate: Cancer, Homophobia
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Oh my goodness! Everyone HAS to read this book! By far, the BEST book I've ever read. EVER!
“Life didn’t have to be perfect . . . for true love to exist in it.”
That line sums up the entire book. Never in all of my time reading have I ever read a sentence so absolutely…right.
THE BEAST is such an emotionally draining book that you’ll definitely need your tissues and you may need to take a few breaks in between reading. I certainly did. And that’s not a bad thing. Rhage and Mary are going through some very REAL problems that many people face. It was tough watching them go through their ups and downs, some bigger than the others. But their story was all the more beautiful because of them. I won’t give out details but
Spoiler
I do want to reassure everyone that this won’t be like the end of THE SHADOWS.And now on to the other characters in the story. Layla is very pregnant and still struggling with her feelings for Xcor. I hope this poor girl gets her HEA soon! She surely deserves one! There are a few scenes with Luchas, Qhuinn’s brother, as well. He and Layla spend time together while he heals and she is on strict bed rest. We don’t really see much of his character in this one and I’m hoping we will in the next book. But, his story may not be ready to tell yet and I’m totally cool with that. Xcor is in the book, but in the background of many scenes…you’ll have to read the book to find out why :)
And then there’s Assail. Cue the dreamy sighs! He is going through some stuff! Holy cow! He’s sexier than hell and every time he’s in a scene, he commands your attention, whether you want it or not. He’s dealing with some serious issues too, and many things come to a head in his storyline. His twin cousin’s Ehric and Evale get page time and we learn more about them and as well as some insight into the dynamics of their (Assail and the twins’) relationship.
I can’t forget Vishous! He gets lots of page time and always has wicked insight into the Black Dagger Brotherhood warriors…as well as everyone else in the story. Lassiter is in the book as well, maybe a little less annoying this time but vital to the book. Saxton plays a very small role in the book, but he’s in a powerfully shocking scene! And Throe…I didn’t want to mention him but I have to. I hope he is staked and left out for the sun because he’s a lying, conniving, back-stabbing motherf**ker and he NEEDS to be put down! That is all.
And of course, there is the sex. J.R. Ward gets DIRTY! There are a few scenes that are very graphic, but always welcome! There’s also a few Male/Male interactions. It’s not full-on like Blay and Qhuinn’s book but there are a few heated conversations where some boundaries are tested. And no, those scenes aren’t with Blay and Qhuinn. You’ll have to experience that surprise on your own! The only reason I mention it now is because I know some readers are uncomfortable about male/male scenes and I felt I need to mention it so readers are aware. While the scenes are brief, they are not greatly emphasized.
There are SO many things that happen in the book. It’ll start slow but quickly picks up momentum. And then hold on to your socks! I think I say that with every BDB book because it’s true! It was amazing! Take your time and enjoy the book! There may be some things in there that you’ll wonder, “Why the hell is this in here?” Trust me, J.R. Ward ALWAYS has a reason for everything that goes into the story. Just be patient!
I absolutely loved THE BEAST. I can’t say Rhage’s book, because so many other good (and bad) things happen that it’s not just about Rhage and Mary. All characters are involved and affected by several outcomes in the book.
I recommend all J.R. Ward books, especially THE BEAST because it’s an exciting, dangerous, heart-stopping, heart-wrenching, humorous and tearful read that will bring you to your knees!
***My biggest thanks to the publisher for gifting me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
Oh I soooooo loved this book. I think I am more in love with Rhage also. First is Trez and now Rhage damn what can you say about these 2 males who are loveable and full with so much love to share with others. I thought Bitty would never choose a name to call Mary and I was so overjoyed when she decided to call her Mom. Now Rhage, Mary and Bitty have become one big happy family. I guess Bitty will not get to date since she has Rhage as her father now. Poor little thing. Overall a great read for me and I think I could truly read this book from the beginning.
I'm much happier with this book than I expected to be, especially after I realized how little I liked The King. Rhage and Mary are probably my favorite BDB couple, and while this book wasn't as amazing as their first journey, it certainly gave me the warm fuzzies.
I will say that I saw the ending coming from a mile away. It wasn't a surprise, nor was it shocking. Some of the other loose ends...(ahem, conversations between V and Doc Jane!) were much more surprising to me than I expected going into the book. And the book did a great job setting up the tensions for Xcor and Layla (Ward's next pairing!).
I particularly liked the bringing in of a new character. I'm not sure where it's going, but I am excited to see the BDB getting back to its initial roots. For awhile there, I felt like it got lost - but it's good to see things getting back to what made this series great.
I will say that I saw the ending coming from a mile away. It wasn't a surprise, nor was it shocking. Some of the other loose ends...(ahem, conversations between V and Doc Jane!) were much more surprising to me than I expected going into the book. And the book did a great job setting up the tensions for Xcor and Layla (Ward's next pairing!).
I particularly liked the bringing in of a new character. I'm not sure where it's going, but I am excited to see the BDB getting back to its initial roots. For awhile there, I felt like it got lost - but it's good to see things getting back to what made this series great.