outnumb3r3d's reviews
14 reviews

Priest by Sierra Simone

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dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 If you're in the mood for a book that will challenge your perceptions and keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than "Priest" by Sierra Simone! This tantalizing tale weaves together desire, faith, and taboo like no other.

Simone's writing is both provocative and poetic, drawing you into a world where passion conflicts with duty. The characters are incredibly well-developed; you'll find yourself deeply invested in their struggles and triumphs. The chemistry between the leads is electric and adds layers to their complex relationship.

Trust me, this isn't just another romance; it's a thought-provoking journey that questions morality and love in unexpected ways. If you haven't read "Priest" yet, I urge you to pick it up—your next obsession awaits! Have you read it? Share your thoughts below! 
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No One Has To Know by Carin Hart

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dark 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? Yes

5.0

 If you’re looking for a gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than "No One Has to Know" by Carin Hart! This novel masterfully weaves suspense and emotion, drawing you into the lives of its complex characters.

Hart’s storytelling is both captivating and thought-provoking, challenging readers to confront deep-seated truths about relationships and secrets. The plot twists are expertly crafted, ensuring that you’ll be turning pages late into the night.

Don’t miss out on this incredible journey—pick up your copy today! Have you read it yet? Share your thoughts below; I’d love to hear what you think! 
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Dirty Dom by Willow Winters

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  • 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

 The story centers on Dominic Valetti, a mafia bookie, and Rebecca "Becca" Harrison, a recently widowed single mother. When Becca attempts to pay off her deceased husband's gambling debts, she encounters Dom, setting off a chain of events that neither of them anticipated. Despite knowing he should keep his distance, Dom finds himself drawn to Becca in ways that complicate both their lives.

  "Dirty Dom" is an entertaining mafia romance that prioritizes steam and suspense over complex plotting. It's an ideal starting point for readers new to Willow Winters' work, particularly those who enjoy their romance on the spicier side with a dash of danger. While it may not satisfy readers looking for intricate plot development, it succeeds as a steamy, quick-paced romantic escape.

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy:
  • Mafia romance
  • Single parent storylines
  • Steamy contemporary romance
  • Quick-paced plots
  • Standalone stories with series potential

 Content Advisory:
This is a mature romance novel that contains explicit sexual content, mafia-related violence, and adult themes. Readers should be aware that this falls firmly in the adult romance category and contains scenes that may not be suitable for all readers.
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The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

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mysterious 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

At the heart of the story is Alicia Berenson, a talented artist who seemingly had it all until the night she shot her husband Gabriel five times in the face and then never spoke another word. This shocking act of violence launches us into a labyrinthine narrative centered around Theo Faber, a criminal psychotherapist determined to unlock the mystery of Alicia's silence.
The novel's structure is particularly effective, with short, propulsive chapters that keep readers engaged while slowly assembling the pieces of a larger puzzle. Through Theo's first-person narration, we experience both his professional determination and personal obsession with Alicia's case, creating an unreliability that adds another layer of psychological complexity to the story.
Thematically, the book delves deep into several powerful subjects: the lasting effects of childhood trauma, the limitations of mental health care, and the complicated dynamics of truth and deception. Michaelides weaves these themes together with references to Greek mythology, creating a modern tragedy that feels both timeless and contemporary.
The novel's setting in a secure forensic unit called The Grove provides a claustrophobic backdrop that enhances the story's psychological intensity. Through this environment, Michaelides explores the power dynamics between mental health professionals and their patients, though some critics have noted that the portrayal of mental health treatment isn't always entirely accurate.
What sets "The Silent Patient" apart is its ability to function both as a gripping thriller and a rare psychological narrative that constantly inhabits the realm of psychotherapy. The book challenges conventional notions of communication and understanding, suggesting that sometimes the most profound truths lie in what remains unsaid.
The novel's conclusion delivers a twist that has become legendary among readers, one that forces a reevaluation of everything that came before. While some might argue that the ending stretches credibility, it's undeniably effective and satisfying within the psychological framework the author has established.
However, readers should be aware that the book deals with several challenging themes, including abuse, suicide, self-harm, and drug use. These elements are handled with appropriate gravity but may be disturbing for sensitive readers.
Recommended for:
  • Fans of psychological thrillers
  • Readers interested in mental health themes
  • Those who enjoy unreliable narrators
  • Anyone who appreciates a well-crafted mystery
Not recommended for:
  • Readers sensitive to themes of violence and trauma
  • Those seeking lighter thriller fare
  • Readers who prefer straightforward narratives