Jessica Jude does it again- this time showcasing the age old saying “Never judge a book by its cover” but in this instance, it’s don’t judge a socialite by her instagram and fondness for antique bags.

The true depth of Lux’s character slowly peaking out through the pages of this story makes her a character that is so palatable when originally she seemed nothing more than everything her outwards appearance and demeanor portrayed, both in Ace of Betrayal and now in Queen of Vengeance.

The themes of loyalty, love, and utter persistence from both MC’s were so brilliantly executed in a way that sucks you in, eager to read the next page. From the moment I finished Ace of Betrayal, I anxiously awaited this book, so curious about what was to become of Lux’s character, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the story that was written for her. This series has truly become one of my favorites with how captivating it truly is. I wish I could go back and read this again for the first time.

I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to partake in the ARC of this book ❤️ Thank you Jessica Jude for the opportunity to fall in love with Lux and Slate early.

I was chosen as an ARC reader for Queen of Vengeance. Let me tell you, this book got me hooked! I loved reading about Lux and Slate. Their banter was great and kept me turning the page to find out what happens next!

This book captured my heart.  

At first, I was afraid to like Lux. She didn't seem like a fun FMC but as the novel progressed her ice thawed and my heart ached for. Slate was the perfect combo for her.  This book is spicy, and funny, and heartbreaking. It will make you want to throw it across the room and then immediately pick it up.

Thank you so much for Jessica Jude to include me in ARC group. All reviews are left voluntarily and honestly. 

Slate and Lux!! This is a beautiful opposites attract, other side of the tracks romance.  I adore Briar.  She is such a pure soul. This book had a great twist to it.  I saw it coming, but it was perfect for the storyline.  I think I may have enjoyed this book a bit more than book one.  I can’t wait to see what comes next!!

Dare I say this was even better than the first book in the series 🙊🙊
Queen of Vengeance follows Lux and Slate and damn was it hot!! 
Romantic suspense with opposites attract, great banter, enemies to lovers, and Gossip Girl vibes... say less!!
The first time high society influencer Lux meets bad boy biker Slate... it's hate at first sight (he stole her parking spot!)... or is it? When push comes to shove and Lux is desperate to save her brother, she turns to the one person she never thought she would. Slate has no interest in having anything to do with the silver spoon, Lux Columbia Clarke, but when she offers something for his sister he can't get on his own there's no way he's turning her down! 
Thank you Jessica Jude for sending a copy my way! I can't wait for book three!!
dark emotional fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
ARC Review – Queen of Vengeance by Jessica Jude
Release Date: July 1st

Queen of Vengeance is the second book in the Hand of Revenge series, and while it’s technically a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first book for a better understanding of Lux’s character arc. Trust me—it adds so much more depth to her actions and mindset.

This story is a spicy enemies-to-lovers romance that pits small-town grit against high-society privilege. Lux is a sharp, stylish socialite who thrives on revenge (especially if you steal her parking spot and then flip her off). Slate is a grumpy, tatted mechanic who fixes luxury cars and is used to expecting the worst out of life—but when it comes to his younger sister, there’s nothing he wouldn’t do. Even if it means slingin’ a few pills to make ends meet.

The dynamic between Lux and Slate had me hooked. There’s banter, tension, and genuine emotional pull. At times I wanted to shake Lux and her friends, but I also found myself rooting hard for her. And Slate? The way this man shows up for the people he loves… he’s got serious golden retriever MMC energy and I loved it.

Although the book is marketed as dark romance, I’d say it leans more on the lighter side of the genre. It’s a great gateway read if you're curious about dark romance tropes but don’t want to dive straight into the deep end.

This had all the elements I love—grumpy x snarky, revenge plots, “touch her and die” energy, and high-stakes emotional beats. If you’re into flawed characters, sizzling chemistry, and a touch of chaos, this one’s for you.

Huge thanks to Jessica Jude for the ARC. I’ll definitely be reading whatever she writes next!


I could not connect with the characters. FMC rubbed be as entirely too whiney. She wants revenge over a parking spot. And there’s a revenge plot poker game that just made me side eye. I will likely attempt to pick it up later. But for now, it’s not for me. 

Loved Lux and Slate’s love story! They meet in the most random way are from two very different worlds. She jacks with him for revenge; he just thinks she’s nice to look at…until
she needs something from him, and he needs something from him. Then, the sparks fly! Love the spiciness and how sweet they are to each other despite all the outside influences. Loved it!!!
emotional medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Thank you Jessica for the ARC! I enjoyed the read. I did not like Lux as much in the beginning but slowly I understood her better at least. It’s very much gossip girl vibes with the very wealthy perfect blonde girl and bad boy from the wrong side of town, but sometimes that just hits. 
Slate was also very very into her. And I  love a story where the MMC falls hard. 
I sort of disliked the whole revenge game the friends all play together because it plays too much into the pity wealthy people vibes but It had to be part of the story for Lux and Slate! It was perfect for them. 
dark emotional hopeful lighthearted mysterious sad 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

I'd like to thank author Jessica Jude and her team for the advanced reader copy of this book. I hadn't read the first in the series, either, and was provided that download, as well. Being introduced to this world was fun and exciting, and not without apprehension. Apprehension for the characters and their lives and how they would navigate the ins and outs of being wealthy... or from the wrong side of the tracks and living on a small island in the Atlantic.

Queen of Vengeance is Lux's story and while she was my least favorite in book 1, I absolutely adore her in this book. The reader really gets to know her and learn about what made her into the socialite she is. The introduction of Slate was so well done and so fun. I don't need to imagine the anger Lux had when he stole her parking spot. I'd want revenge, too.

All of the issues between Lux and Slate were well-written and the story wasn't rushed at all. The third act breakup was realistic and I don't blame Lux for it.

I can't wait for the third in the series and have already signed up for an advanced copy of that one! This series is a quick read, a fun escape from reality (and couldn't we all use that, right now?), and I highly enjoyed it.