outnumb3r3d's reviews
14 reviews

The Carver by Penelope Sky

dark hopeful tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Book 2 of 4
Spicy and captivating. Sky develops these characters throughout the book. the way Bastien protects Fleur, especially from her cheating ex-husband Adrian. He eliminates everyone in his path that he can, until he is taken by surprise and he has put Fleur in the position of being seriously hurt because of him. He struggles with the idea of her leaving him, and he can't take that. At the end, when the final twist comes into play, it has you craving the next book in the series,s "The Siant"

The Butcher by Penelope Sky

challenging dark tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Very, Very Spicy!! Book 1 of 3
This book was sitting in my Kindle library to be read, and I kept going over it to something else, and now I wish that I had read this one immediately! Fleur is the MFC in the story that has a cheating husband, and when the mistress tells her about it, Adrian (EX-Husband) denies everything. She thought that she was trapped to be alone forever, maybe taking him back out of bordem. That is until she is working one night, and in walls Bastein aka The Butcher. He is the kingpin of the city and doesn't take it well when women and children are messed with. He holds power and authority when he walks into the room.

I had a push-and-pull with the MFC because of her cowardice towards Bastein. her even thinking about going back to her ex, that is, until she found out that there was more than one cheating scandal. The protectiveness and spice spice spice in this book will have you running to "The Carver" which is part 2 of this book.

Read it. You will not be disappointed!!

Bossy Mogul by Scarlett Avery

adventurous challenging dark emotional tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

"Bossy Mogul" examines the dynamics of power and control within a corporate setting. The novel offers a glimpse into the competitive landscape of individuals constantly vying for dominance. Avery's portrayal of these power struggles is realistic and nuanced, highlighting the ethical dilemmas and moral compromises that can occur in pursuing professional advancement. Furthermore, the romance element of the story catalyzes the protagonist's personal growth. The vulnerability and connection fostered through a meaningful relationship challenge the mogul's hardened exterior, forcing them to confront their own emotional needs and re-evaluate their priorities. The novel suggests that true fulfillment lies not solely in professional achievement but in finding a balance between ambition and personal connection. In conclusion, "Bossy Mogul" is more than just a captivating read. It's a thought-provoking exploration of ambition, power, and the search for meaning in a world obsessed with success. Scarlett Avery crafts a narrative that resonates with readers who grapple with the challenges of balancing personal aspirations with the demands of a demanding career, ultimately suggesting that true fulfillment lies in finding a harmonious blend of both. The novel serves as a reminder that ambition, while a powerful driving force, should not come at the expense of personal well-being and meaningful connections.

Boss From Hell by Georgia Le Carre

dark tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

"Boss from Hell," with its well-defined characters, compelling plot, and expertly crafted tension, exemplifies the compelling allure of this beloved trope, leaving the reader with a warm glow and the satisfaction of witnessing a beautifully hard-won love. Le Carre doesn't just deliver a romance; she delivers a deliciously tormented, and ultimately triumphant, testament to the power of love to conquer all, even the most formidable of enemies. As they begin to see beyond the surface, understanding the motivations and vulnerabilities of their "enemy," they are compelled to re-evaluate their own beliefs and perceptions. This internal growth is mirrored in their external actions, as they slowly begin to trust, support, and ultimately, fall in love with the person they once despised.

Hunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton

adventurous challenging dark hopeful mysterious reflective sad tense 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

5.0

 AFTER reading Haunting Adeline you are left to run and grab Hunting Adeline. The sinister things that this book brings to the front of your mind are seriously gruesome. This book is NOT for the faint of heart. There are several descriptive parts of sex trafficking, child trafficking, and torture. But the way that the author puts the details in there makes you want to carry on and see what is in store for the MC. The way that the author has you staying up until the very night reading this and not wanting to put it down is amazing. Zade is 100% in love with her and will do anything / kill anyone that threatens or harms her which has left me wanting more. There were several relative parts between book 1 and this one. There are trigger warnings for a reason! If you can't handle the triggers, please don't read these books 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Addiction, Adult/minor relationship, Child abuse, Cursing, Death, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Gore, Hate crime, Panic attacks/disorders, Pedophilia, Physical abuse, Rape, Self harm, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Slavery, Torture, Violence, Blood, Trafficking, Kidnapping, Grief, Stalking, Car accident, Murder, Injury/Injury detail

Haunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton

adventurous dark funny mysterious tense 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? It's complicated

5.0

Where do I begin with this book? 
I could not put it down, staying up until 3 a.m., just needing to get to the next chapter, only to find myself carrying on until the next. The way that he stalks her to elicit fear into her just to turn around and turn it into pleasure is exactly what I didn't know I needed. H.D. Carlton does an amazing job at the way the words and images are put together like you are watching a movie as you read this. The way he protects her without her knowledge and consumes her in ways that she did not know that she could handle or want more than anything. When the tragic ending comes leaving you running to the other room for the next book "Hunting Adeline", is mind-blowing. Now to find me a stalker with eyes like these!!

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Child abuse, Child death, Cursing, Suicidal thoughts, Torture, Violence, Trafficking, Stalking

Moderate: Drug use, Gun violence, Panic attacks/disorders, Torture, Kidnapping, Murder, Injury/Injury detail

Out of the Dark: An Age Gap BDSM Romance (Club Caliber) by Lyla Andrews

adventurous challenging dark informative inspiring medium-paced

5.0

(Please be aware that the following essay will address themes of an age gap and BDSM, Reader discretion is advised.) Lyla Andrews's "Out of the Dark: An Age Gap BDSM Romance (Club Caliber)" isn't just a story; it's a defiant roar against societal expectations, a passionate exploration of power dynamics, and a determined excavation of the heart. It's a narrative that dares to embrace the complexities of desire, shattering the delicate façade of conventional romance to reveal something raw, vulnerable, and ultimately, profoundly fulfilling. This isn't a whisper in the shadows; it's a declaration, boldly proclaiming that love, connection, and healing can bloom in the most unexpected and even, seemingly forbidden, landscapes. The age gap at the heart of this romance isn't merely a plot device; it's a catalyst. It throws into stark relief the inherent power imbalances that exist within all relationships, demanding that both characters confront their preconceived notions and insecurities. It forces them to navigate the delicate terrain of experience versus vulnerability, wisdom versus naiveté. Andrews doesn't shy away from the uncomfortable truths, instead diving headfirst into the challenges, allowing the characters to learn, grow, and ultimately, find solace in their shared vulnerability. Furthermore, the BDSM element isn't gratuitous or sensationalized; it's a crucial component of their connection. It's a framework within which they negotiate consent, explore boundaries, and discover the depths of their desires. It's a space where vulnerability is embraced, where power is wielded with responsibility, and where trust is paramount. Through the rituals of submission and dominance, they dismantle the barriers that separate them, forging a bond built on unwavering honesty and profound emotional intimacy. "Out of the Dark" isn't a timid tale; it's a fiercely determined journey toward self-discovery and unconditional love. It’s a testament to the power of embracing our authentic selves, regardless of societal judgment. It's a defiant celebration of the human heart's capacity for connection, healing, and unwavering passion. It's a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned, a potent reminder that love, in its truest form, knows no bounds and fears no darkness. It demands to be read, to be felt, and to be remembered. If you did not know what BDSM is or had any questions, Lyla Andrews practically spells it out for you. She is informative on the BDSM world and leaves no question as to what to expect in this lifestyle. [She might have taught me a thing or two with this book]. Andrews will leave you wanting more after turning the last page! I can't wait to read more of her stories as I have just scratched the surface of her books! You will not be disappointed!

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Sexual content

Moderate: Confinement, Grief

Minor: Cursing, Emotional abuse, Panic attacks/disorders, Toxic relationship

Craven Manor by Darcy Coates

adventurous emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

From the moment the rusted gates of Craven Manor creaked open, a chilling dread seeped into my bones. Darcey Coates, a mistress of the macabre, crafts a labyrinth of suspense in *Craven Manor*, a gothic tale that clutches at your throat and refuses to let go. The crumbling edifice, steeped in whispers of tragedy and shrouded in perpetual twilight, becomes a character itself, breathing with a malevolent presence that permeates every shadowed corner and dust-laden room. Our protagonist, Daniel, a man burdened by his own haunting past, accepts the caretaker position at Craven Manor, seeking solace in its isolation. Instead, he finds himself ensnared in a web of inexplicable occurrences, unsettling noises that dance just beyond the edge of hearing, and the lingering scent of despair that clings to the very air. Coates masterfully layers the suspense, building it brick by brick, with each unsettling detail adding to the mounting tension. The manor's history, revealed in fragmented glimpses through forgotten diaries and ghostly apparitions, unfolds like a macabre puzzle. Each piece only deepens the mystery, leaving the reader desperately turning pages, hungry for answers but dreading what they might find. Coates employs a deft hand at misdirection, leading you down one path only to yank you back with a chilling revelation, leaving you questioning everything you thought you knew. *Craven Manor* is more than just a ghost story; it's a psychological thriller that preys on your deepest fears. The oppressive atmosphere, the unreliable narrator, and the constant sense of unease coalesce into a truly unforgettable reading experience. You'll find yourself checking over your shoulder, jumping at shadows, and questioning the silence in your own home long after you've turned the final page. This is a book that doesn't just tell a story; it crawls under your skin and stays there, a testament to Darcey Coates's skill as a weaver of chilling, page-turning suspense. 

Four Steps to the Perfect Fake Date by Lilian Monroe

emotional funny reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Alright, buckle up, darlings, because I'm about to dive headfirst into Lilian Monroe's "Four Steps to the Perfect Fake Date." Let me tell you, this isn't your run-of-the-mill romance story. Lilian Monroe, in her insightful "Four Steps to the Perfect Fake Date," doesn't just give us a how-to guide; she offers a glimpse into the messy, beautiful, and surprisingly real emotions that can blossom when you're *pretending* to be in love. Fake dating, at its core, is a performance. It's about crafting an illusion, a believable narrative that convinces those around you that sparks are flying. But Monroe, with a heart full of passion, understands that the magic lies in the *evolving* nature of the charade. It's not about rigidly sticking to a script but about allowing personalities and genuine interactions to shape the relationship. The initial awkwardness, forced laughter, and carefully curated public displays of affection are all building blocks. The beauty lies in the transformation. As the fake relationship progresses, something shifts. The actors, consumed by the roles they play, start to see each other in a new light. The carefully constructed facade begins to crack, revealing vulnerabilities, hidden depths, and unexpected connections. It is in these moments of authentic interaction that the fake begins to feel…REAL. Then there's the juiciest trope of them all: the enemy-to-lover dynamic lurking beneath the surface. Monroe implicitly acknowledges the inherent tension of this element. What better foundation for a fake relationship than underlying animosity? The constant bickering, the thinly veiled insults, the simmering resentment – it all provides a fertile ground for explosive chemistry. Because let's face it, the line between love and hate is often thinner than we'd like to admit. And when those two extremes collide, the result is a passionate inferno that burns all pretense to ashes, leaving behind a raw and undeniable truth. Monroe's "Four Steps" isn't just a guide to faking a relationship: it's a guide to discovering oneself and the unexpected depths of human connection. It’s a testament to the power of vulnerability, the allure of forbidden desires, and the undeniable truth that sometimes, the most authentic love stories begin with a lie. And that, my friends, is the heart of a truly captivating fake dating tale.

Once Your Mine by Morgan Bridges

emotional tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 Are you looking for a gripping read that will tug at your heartstrings, "Once You're Mine" by Morgan Bridges is a must-read! This novel beautifully intertwines romance and emotional depth, exploring the complexities of love and loss. Bridges' storytelling is both captivating and relatable, drawing you into the lives of her characters in a way that feels intimate and real. The unexpected twists keep you on your toes, making it impossible to put down! If you're in search of a book that will leave you reflecting on your own relationships long after you've turned the last page, then "Once You're Mine" is for you. Have you read it yet? Share your thoughts below! 📚❤️