3.75 AVERAGE


Look I dnfed this book twice before getting to this point. I honestly can’t explain why I went back to this book not once but TWICE, but I’m glad I did.

Look, there was a lot of suspension of disbelief with this book. There were a LOT of people obsessed with this MFC for no real reason. The MMC is super problematic and not in a good dark romance way. More in a wtf is wrong with you way (I grew to love him anyway though. What is wrong with me???). I also feel like this wasn’t an accurate representation of college hockey, but honestly all my college hockey knowledge comes from romance so wtf do I know? Lastly, just fair warning that the spice got a little excessive and vanilla after the first half.

That being said, I actually still really enjoyed this book lol (well I did on the third try). Why? I have no idea but I’m immediately starting the next book. It kept my attention and honestly it was pretty entertaining. Is this a literary masterpiece? No. Does it contain many of the tropes I know and love? Yes, yes it does.

It’s been over a week and I’m still left thinking about this book and how much I enjoyed it. It combined probably my two most read themes - dark and sports romance.
Instead of writing a well thought out review - I’ll leave it with two words:
F*cking Phenomenal.

I knew this was a dark romance but I didn't expect it to go that dark - and I ate it up. I lived this book and can't really fault it, there was just something more I was looking for to make it a 5 star read. I didn't expect Violet to be into all this, especially after what Grey did to her but if a hot hockey stud was obsessing over me I would probably go with it as well!
dark funny mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This was good! It was literally only a bully romance for maybe like 20% because she loves it and he just ends up becoming obsessed with her. It kept me entertained and I liked the mystery that was running through as well. I kind of wish this was RH with Steele, but whatever. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings

Wowww !! This book was sexy , delicious, intense & had a great story !! The twist at the near end had me stunned !! The spice in this book was just YESSS ! Definitely check your triggers before you read !!

3.75⭐️⭐️⭐️
challenging dark emotional funny lighthearted mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes

Why so long?? It was not needed. 

Suspense and Obsession

“Brutal Obsession” by S. Massery is a gripping hockey romance that delivers suspense and tension at every turn. The main character, Greyson Devereux, might be charismatic to everyone else, but he’s a menace to the protagonist. The author’s skillful character development adds layers to the story, providing intriguing perspectives that evolve as the plot unfolds. The relentless suspense keeps readers guessing about the tormentor’s identity, maintaining an edge-of-the-seat experience throughout. The interplay between attraction and resistance between the characters creates a dark and enthralling dynamic. Massery’s writing draws out a riveting darkness within the characters, culminating in a tale that’s both captivating and chilling. As a reader who was consistently engaged, I look forward to exploring more works by the author and in this series.