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The Elite Seven #2
Pride
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist.
But who said the devil was a he?
In my world, she was out to cause havoc on all our lives.
She’ll use the one thing I care most about to control me—force me into her Elite world, filled with sin, deceit, and power. And under her spell, I’ll lead a sinister brotherhood of seven at one of the most prestigious universities in New Orleans.
Seven tasks set forth by the devil herself, promising nothing less than the forbidden fruit of power. What they don’t understand is it will all end in bloodshed and regret.
They call me the alpha. The one in charge. The one with pride bigger than any task I could be given. And my pride won’t let me be anywhere but at the top of the food chain until she gives me what I truly want.
My task is Meghan Benedict.
She’s too pure for me to touch, too good for me to ruin—and the only thing standing in my way to freedom.
Accept your sin wisely, for the tasks given to earn your place are not for the weak...they’re for The Elite.
As they say, pride comes before the fall.
I am Mason Blackwell.
I am Pride.
***
The Elite Seven Series
Lust (The Elite Seven, #1) by Ker Dukey https://amzn.to/2Wm4mnB
Pride (The Elite Seven, #2) by J.D. Hollyfield https://amzn.to/2WEDvDa
Wrath (The Elite Seven, #3) by Claire C. Riley https://amzn.to/2EjJNBg
Envy (The Elite Seven, #4) by M.N. Forgy https://amzn.to/2ECLHvs
Gluttony (The Elite Seven, #5) by K Webster (Coming in April!)
Sloth (The Elite Seven, #6) by Giana Darling (Coming in May!)
Greed (The Elite Seven, #7) by Ker Dukey and K Webster (Coming in May!)
But who said the devil was a he?
In my world, she was out to cause havoc on all our lives.
She’ll use the one thing I care most about to control me—force me into her Elite world, filled with sin, deceit, and power. And under her spell, I’ll lead a sinister brotherhood of seven at one of the most prestigious universities in New Orleans.
Seven tasks set forth by the devil herself, promising nothing less than the forbidden fruit of power. What they don’t understand is it will all end in bloodshed and regret.
They call me the alpha. The one in charge. The one with pride bigger than any task I could be given. And my pride won’t let me be anywhere but at the top of the food chain until she gives me what I truly want.
My task is Meghan Benedict.
She’s too pure for me to touch, too good for me to ruin—and the only thing standing in my way to freedom.
Accept your sin wisely, for the tasks given to earn your place are not for the weak...they’re for The Elite.
As they say, pride comes before the fall.
I am Mason Blackwell.
I am Pride.
***
The Elite Seven Series
Lust (The Elite Seven, #1) by Ker Dukey https://amzn.to/2Wm4mnB
Pride (The Elite Seven, #2) by J.D. Hollyfield https://amzn.to/2WEDvDa
Wrath (The Elite Seven, #3) by Claire C. Riley https://amzn.to/2EjJNBg
Envy (The Elite Seven, #4) by M.N. Forgy https://amzn.to/2ECLHvs
Gluttony (The Elite Seven, #5) by K Webster (Coming in April!)
Sloth (The Elite Seven, #6) by Giana Darling (Coming in May!)
Greed (The Elite Seven, #7) by Ker Dukey and K Webster (Coming in May!)
First published February 25, 2019
About the author
J.D. Hollyfield
48 books1,620 followersCreative designer, mother, wife, writer, part-time superhero...
USA Today Bestselling author J.D. Hollyfield is a creative designer by day and superhero by night. When she is not trying to save the world one happy ending at a time, she enjoys the snuggles of her husband, sons, and doxies. With her love for romance, and a head full of book boyfriends, she was inspired to test her creative abilities and bring her own story to life.
J.D. Hollyfield lives in the Midwest and is currently at work on blowing the minds of readers, with the additions of her new books and series, along with her charm, humor, and Happily Ever After's.
USA Today Bestselling author J.D. Hollyfield is a creative designer by day and superhero by night. When she is not trying to save the world one happy ending at a time, she enjoys the snuggles of her husband, sons, and doxies. With her love for romance, and a head full of book boyfriends, she was inspired to test her creative abilities and bring her own story to life.
J.D. Hollyfield lives in the Midwest and is currently at work on blowing the minds of readers, with the additions of her new books and series, along with her charm, humor, and Happily Ever After's.
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April 9, 2019
February 27, 2019
Hollyfield has created another sinner for me to fall in love with!
I love how intertwined these stories are. The characters stay consistent and the plots are continuing as they become fully developed. This story was about Pride and all the ways that Mason had to swallow his in order to survive.
Mason suffered so much. Those he was supposed to trust, those responsible for his safety, were the very ones to make him unsafe. It was all he could do to protect his little sister, no matter the cost. So being at the beck and call of a she-devil would be the price he'd pay to ensure his sister was okay. Luckily it takes him no time at all to gain the advantage and with the help of an old friend and some new ones, he just might make the most of it.
I loved Mason. So much. I loved his loyalty, his strength, his vulnerability, his ethical code, etc. He was just great. The heroine of this story, Meghan, was an absolute sweetheart with a spicy hidden personality. This girl was HAWT!! And these two together were a kinky, wet dream. Muy caliente 🔥🔥🔥
Wrath is next and I'm so excited to see where this story goes. I love these guys so much already and getting all of these different perspectives on their personalities only fuels my hunger.
Blog | FB | Twitter | IG | Tumblr | Pinterest | BookBub
I love how intertwined these stories are. The characters stay consistent and the plots are continuing as they become fully developed. This story was about Pride and all the ways that Mason had to swallow his in order to survive.
Mason suffered so much. Those he was supposed to trust, those responsible for his safety, were the very ones to make him unsafe. It was all he could do to protect his little sister, no matter the cost. So being at the beck and call of a she-devil would be the price he'd pay to ensure his sister was okay. Luckily it takes him no time at all to gain the advantage and with the help of an old friend and some new ones, he just might make the most of it.
I loved Mason. So much. I loved his loyalty, his strength, his vulnerability, his ethical code, etc. He was just great. The heroine of this story, Meghan, was an absolute sweetheart with a spicy hidden personality. This girl was HAWT!! And these two together were a kinky, wet dream. Muy caliente 🔥🔥🔥
Wrath is next and I'm so excited to see where this story goes. I love these guys so much already and getting all of these different perspectives on their personalities only fuels my hunger.
Blog | FB | Twitter | IG | Tumblr | Pinterest | BookBub
April 21, 2019
This is the second instalment of this series and I ended up enjoying it even more than the first one! There are 7 books in the series, and each book is a different sin that the main character is named after in the Elite group that they are striving to be a part of. Also, each book is written by a different author!
I love it when authors get together and write a series with each other!
This book is “Pride’s” book; and Mason has been given the sin and the responsibility of ruling the other young men’s club. He is the leader of the Elite’s in training, and he has learned that this club is not exactly a good one to be a part of. Unfortunately, he has no choice to drop out. The leader that has him under her thumb is using Mason’s sisters well being to keep him in line .
I felt for Mason and his sister and what they endured growing up in foster homes, and the being under a wicked woman’s thumb. I literally wanted to tear that evil woman apart. This second book has some of the secrets we discovered in the first book come to light, and certain things are starting to make sense about the corruption in the Elite club. We still have a ways to go to find out all of the secrets and players involved in this group. I personally can’t wait to find out more!
There is a romance that develops between Mason and Meghan, and I loved them together! They get their kink on and it made the story that much better!
I am loving this series so far and I’m hopeful the next book will keep me intrigued! Thanks Steph for another awesome Buddy Read and I am pleased we are reading this series together!❤️
I love it when authors get together and write a series with each other!
This book is “Pride’s” book; and Mason has been given the sin and the responsibility of ruling the other young men’s club. He is the leader of the Elite’s in training, and he has learned that this club is not exactly a good one to be a part of. Unfortunately, he has no choice to drop out. The leader that has him under her thumb is using Mason’s sisters well being to keep him in line .
I felt for Mason and his sister and what they endured growing up in foster homes, and the being under a wicked woman’s thumb. I literally wanted to tear that evil woman apart. This second book has some of the secrets we discovered in the first book come to light, and certain things are starting to make sense about the corruption in the Elite club. We still have a ways to go to find out all of the secrets and players involved in this group. I personally can’t wait to find out more!
There is a romance that develops between Mason and Meghan, and I loved them together! They get their kink on and it made the story that much better!
I am loving this series so far and I’m hopeful the next book will keep me intrigued! Thanks Steph for another awesome Buddy Read and I am pleased we are reading this series together!❤️
February 24, 2019
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Type: Book 2 of 7 from The Elite Seven series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Since a young age Mason Blackwell learned the hard way to never rely on others. But his pride took a hit when his whole life was put on the line and pulled on strings in a devious game he couldn’t get out from. A task for him was just a way to earn his leash, until he realized things wouldn’t be as simple as it seemed when it came to Megan Thorne.
From the ending of last book, I was intrigued of how Mason’s story is going to be. I liked how different he was from the rest of the guys in the brotherhood. I could feel his dilemma and anger for being thrown into the situation.
Megan was a pleasant surprise for me. I liked the duality in her personality. The sex scenes between them were exciting and scorching.
I enjoyed the dynamic between the hero and the villain, watching how they tried to outwit each other. However, the romance element was minimal. I felt this book (and I suppose the whole series) focused more on the Sin and the brotherhood which I don’t mind if that was the original intention.
Pride is a story of survival and sacrifice. I’m looking forward to see how the series storyline would evolve next.
Books in the series:
❌ 🦚 ❌ . . . (F)BR With Loyda . . . ❌ 🦚 ❌
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Book 2 of 7 from The Elite Seven series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Since a young age Mason Blackwell learned the hard way to never rely on others. But his pride took a hit when his whole life was put on the line and pulled on strings in a devious game he couldn’t get out from. A task for him was just a way to earn his leash, until he realized things wouldn’t be as simple as it seemed when it came to Megan Thorne.
From the ending of last book, I was intrigued of how Mason’s story is going to be. I liked how different he was from the rest of the guys in the brotherhood. I could feel his dilemma and anger for being thrown into the situation.
My vision begins to blacken as vibrations shoot down to my toes and I bite down on my tongue as my orgasm detonates and sends me over the edge of euphoria.
Megan was a pleasant surprise for me. I liked the duality in her personality. The sex scenes between them were exciting and scorching.
Agreeing to her terms was no different than signing my death warrant. I knew the day I did, it would be the last time I had control over myself.
I enjoyed the dynamic between the hero and the villain, watching how they tried to outwit each other. However, the romance element was minimal. I felt this book (and I suppose the whole series) focused more on the Sin and the brotherhood which I don’t mind if that was the original intention.
The deeper I plummet into the abyss of our forbidden attraction, the heavier my emotions become, and I know it’s no longer just physical between us
Pride is a story of survival and sacrifice. I’m looking forward to see how the series storyline would evolve next.
Books in the series:
❌ 🦚 ❌ . . . (F)BR With Loyda . . . ❌ 🦚 ❌
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
February 19, 2019
Hmmm...this book (like book one) was a little bit of a mixed bag. I felt the romance in this one was a bit more developed but still took a backseat to Mason's background and the whole "Elite Seven" storyline. Which for me is the highlight of these books. I did like the fact that we didn't get too much OW stuff. The hero wasn't a manwhore. I didn't much care for the fact that this was an older woman/younger man story and the first sex scene was a little much. Mainly because it seemed SO over the top for two people that had JUST meet in a bar...but OK I went with it. (lol)
I think going forward I need to lower my expectations a bit regarding the "romances" and just sit back and enjoy the comradery between all the guys and the twists and turns that come from the whole "secret society" angle. That is definitely the best part of these books (so far).
February 27, 2019
4★★★★Stars
Genre:
Romantic Suspense
Type:
Book 2 of 7 from The Elite Seven series
POV:
First Person - Dual
❝My pride would destroy anyone beneath me to reclaim what I'd lost.❞
Mason Blackwell grew up in foster homes always protecting his little sister and making sure they were safe. Little did he know what he had to do to earn his safety and to protect his sister. In a night to escape his messed up life, he meets a one night stand girl that turned his world around. Megan Thorne was a stranger who gave him the escape he needed and a fantasy come true.
❝He was my dirty little secret. He was not supposed to show up in my pure, innocent world.❞
I absolutely devoured this book, read it in one settling and left me wanting more. There were so many questions that are left unanswered and obviously I can't hardly wait for the next book. The author was able to give us all the pain this characters are going through and in their desperation to survive and protect their love ones all boundaries are tested. The sexy scenes on this book were so good and the anticipation of what's to come is unbearable. I felt so many emotions reading this book but I had so much anger towards one character in particular and only hope the authors do some damage in the future books.
❝Her smile is what nightmares are made of. Hidden behind that sweet lie is hate and destruction.❞
Overall, I am enjoyed this second book in the elite seven series. Readers who enjoy survival stories will find this book and series appealing and very addicting.
...This was a F(BR) with War...
Books in the series:
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
February 28, 2019
***4,25 "Dirty little secret!!!" stars***
"Pride is more than the first of the seven deadly sins; it is itself the essence of all sins."
-John Scott
Holy freakin' God!!!! Well played, guys!!!! Well played!!!
And by guys, i mean all these authors that are participating in writing this series!!!!
Well, the second book of the series was even better than the first one... I have to admit that this one was my first book by this author and I wasn't disappointed!!!!
And yes, i finally understood how every book is going to proceed with the result to give us a whole story!!!! And i will say for once again!!!! WELL PLAYED!!!!
"A secret society run by a fucking psychopath. But was Lillian the real mastermind? Or was she just another pawn in The Elite? And what do my new brand of brothers really know? They all seem pumped to be a part of it. Which confirms they don't know shit behind the masquerade."
The first book finished with a cliffy which was about the second book... It was like Rhett was giving the reins to Mason to tell his story and to give some light in the ending of Lust...
The truth is that as i was reading this book, i was wondering why now??? Why Mason's turn had to be the second in the row since he seemed to have a big part with a huge background in the Elite??? But i think that now, i understand!!! There is something bigger than Lilian that all of them has to face!!!! And I'm so curious about the rest of the Brothers!!!
And surprise, surprise!!!! The end was having another one cliffy!!!! Arrrr...
Thank goodness that the third book will be out there in two weeks!!!!
But let's just focus on Mason {Pride!}!!!!
"My plan was to hurt, deceive, kill. Nothing would stand in my way. My pride would destroy anyone beneath me to reclaim what I'd lost. Until her."
God, that kid-man!!!! He had suffered so many shits in his life, especially the last two years!!!! My heart was breaking for him again and again, but his pride was helding his head above the water and he was keep fighting for himself and his sister!!!
Lilliana, that evil bitch, from book one, was having a big part in his nightmare.... She was the devil himself and she made his life a living hell... But she was never satisfied. She wanted more and more all the time... Her games were evil, sneaky and life changing....
"I despise the person she's about to turn me into. But part of me agrees. Pride won't stop me from doing the tasks doted on me. No one is above my sister. No one."
So, after two years in hell, Mason Blackwell was being forced to enroll in St. Augustines and to become the leader of the Elite!!!! He was Pride and he had to play his part and to pay the price....
His task was to destroy a woman's life... A woman that he was very familiar of.... But he has to do it, in order to keep his sister safe from the devil's claws...
But what will happen when his heart will not get the memo???
When he will start to discover more about Lillian and Elite???
When he will start to know his newly added brothers and connect with them???
"PRIDE
Your task is sin of perverse...
Lack of vanity is far from humility
For sinner who is beneath no one.
Expose and ruin at no cost.
Teach her secrets are no fun...
Secrets will ruin someone."
Well, i loved both Mason and Megan...
They were wild and reckless, but they were young and in love...
Unfortunately, the odds weren't with them and they had to fight many demons for them to become something more...
Mason was proud and strong and a really nice guy!!!! His love of his sister was strong and then, his love for his woman was very fierce...
Megan was sweet and kind and proper at days... At nights, she was definitely a wildcat and i liked this side of hers!!!!
Mason and she were so good for each other....
"Don't look at me like that."
"Like what?"
"Like you're disappointed. This, what we're doing... it won't end well."
"He wants me to show him, admit that this, us, together... we're a force."
"I couldn't get enough of her. She was orbiting into my very own addiction. I wanted more. I needed more." {Mason}
"He makes me want so many things, it scares me. He has me plunging deep into the thirsty sea of lust, drowning in everything he's offering me. But the deeper I plummet into the abyss of our forbidden attraction, the heavier my emotions become, and I know it's no longer just physical between us." {Megan}
Also, i liked very much the bonding between the guys!!!! And I'm wondering what kind of shits they are forced to live the other guys too!!!
I like the idea that we are seeing each one's life from the beginning and the time frame in the present is matching really good with the one in the previous book and i love that after the cliffy, we are taking a little more time in each hero's lives...
And of course, I'm dying about the other guys's turns.... And hmmm.... I haven't noticed much Sloth in the previous book, but he definitely has my attention now... And damn, his book is the last one, but I'm conveiced that he is holding the key to all this mystery!!! So, i can not wait!!!!
But for now... I'm ready for you, Wrath!!! So, bring it on!!!!
"My stomach recoils, and a heavy sickness swirls inside me at the way her evil smirk breaks across her face.
It's then I fully understand.
The one thing we've all dreaded: the war had begun."
Oh!!! And i forgot to say that i hate Lillian's guts and not only hers!!!
There are many bad people in here!!! People whom we already had seen and people, whom i'm sure, are lurking in the dark!!!!
Pfff!!! This series are intense and in a way, very exciting!!!!
"They're bad people out there. People who thrive to destroy . But I won't let that happen. I've got you."
"Pride is more than the first of the seven deadly sins; it is itself the essence of all sins."
-John Scott
Holy freakin' God!!!! Well played, guys!!!! Well played!!!
And by guys, i mean all these authors that are participating in writing this series!!!!
Well, the second book of the series was even better than the first one... I have to admit that this one was my first book by this author and I wasn't disappointed!!!!
And yes, i finally understood how every book is going to proceed with the result to give us a whole story!!!! And i will say for once again!!!! WELL PLAYED!!!!
"A secret society run by a fucking psychopath. But was Lillian the real mastermind? Or was she just another pawn in The Elite? And what do my new brand of brothers really know? They all seem pumped to be a part of it. Which confirms they don't know shit behind the masquerade."
The first book finished with a cliffy which was about the second book... It was like Rhett was giving the reins to Mason to tell his story and to give some light in the ending of Lust...
The truth is that as i was reading this book, i was wondering why now??? Why Mason's turn had to be the second in the row since he seemed to have a big part with a huge background in the Elite??? But i think that now, i understand!!! There is something bigger than Lilian that all of them has to face!!!! And I'm so curious about the rest of the Brothers!!!
And surprise, surprise!!!! The end was having another one cliffy!!!! Arrrr...
Thank goodness that the third book will be out there in two weeks!!!!
But let's just focus on Mason {Pride!}!!!!
"My plan was to hurt, deceive, kill. Nothing would stand in my way. My pride would destroy anyone beneath me to reclaim what I'd lost. Until her."
God, that kid-man!!!! He had suffered so many shits in his life, especially the last two years!!!! My heart was breaking for him again and again, but his pride was helding his head above the water and he was keep fighting for himself and his sister!!!
Lilliana, that evil bitch, from book one, was having a big part in his nightmare.... She was the devil himself and she made his life a living hell... But she was never satisfied. She wanted more and more all the time... Her games were evil, sneaky and life changing....
"I despise the person she's about to turn me into. But part of me agrees. Pride won't stop me from doing the tasks doted on me. No one is above my sister. No one."
So, after two years in hell, Mason Blackwell was being forced to enroll in St. Augustines and to become the leader of the Elite!!!! He was Pride and he had to play his part and to pay the price....
His task was to destroy a woman's life... A woman that he was very familiar of.... But he has to do it, in order to keep his sister safe from the devil's claws...
But what will happen when his heart will not get the memo???
When he will start to discover more about Lillian and Elite???
When he will start to know his newly added brothers and connect with them???
"PRIDE
Your task is sin of perverse...
Lack of vanity is far from humility
For sinner who is beneath no one.
Expose and ruin at no cost.
Teach her secrets are no fun...
Secrets will ruin someone."
Well, i loved both Mason and Megan...
They were wild and reckless, but they were young and in love...
Unfortunately, the odds weren't with them and they had to fight many demons for them to become something more...
Mason was proud and strong and a really nice guy!!!! His love of his sister was strong and then, his love for his woman was very fierce...
Megan was sweet and kind and proper at days... At nights, she was definitely a wildcat and i liked this side of hers!!!!
Mason and she were so good for each other....
"Don't look at me like that."
"Like what?"
"Like you're disappointed. This, what we're doing... it won't end well."
"He wants me to show him, admit that this, us, together... we're a force."
"I couldn't get enough of her. She was orbiting into my very own addiction. I wanted more. I needed more." {Mason}
"He makes me want so many things, it scares me. He has me plunging deep into the thirsty sea of lust, drowning in everything he's offering me. But the deeper I plummet into the abyss of our forbidden attraction, the heavier my emotions become, and I know it's no longer just physical between us." {Megan}
Also, i liked very much the bonding between the guys!!!! And I'm wondering what kind of shits they are forced to live the other guys too!!!
I like the idea that we are seeing each one's life from the beginning and the time frame in the present is matching really good with the one in the previous book and i love that after the cliffy, we are taking a little more time in each hero's lives...
And of course, I'm dying about the other guys's turns.... And hmmm.... I haven't noticed much Sloth in the previous book, but he definitely has my attention now... And damn, his book is the last one, but I'm conveiced that he is holding the key to all this mystery!!! So, i can not wait!!!!
But for now... I'm ready for you, Wrath!!! So, bring it on!!!!
"My stomach recoils, and a heavy sickness swirls inside me at the way her evil smirk breaks across her face.
It's then I fully understand.
The one thing we've all dreaded: the war had begun."
Oh!!! And i forgot to say that i hate Lillian's guts and not only hers!!!
There are many bad people in here!!! People whom we already had seen and people, whom i'm sure, are lurking in the dark!!!!
Pfff!!! This series are intense and in a way, very exciting!!!!
"They're bad people out there. People who thrive to destroy . But I won't let that happen. I've got you."
February 20, 2019
Pride by J.D. Hollyfield
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
NARRATION: Dual POV
BOOK DETAILS: Book 2 in the Elite Seven Series
AUDIO AVAILABLE? No
THE STORY – IN A NUTSHELL
Sɪɴᴄᴇ 1942, Tʜᴇ Eʟɪᴛᴇ Sᴇᴠᴇɴ Sᴏᴄɪᴇᴛʏ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ɢᴜɪᴅᴇᴅ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴛɪᴀʟ ʟᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs, ᴍᴏʟᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛʀʏ ɪɴᴛᴏ sᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ʙᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ.
Bᴜᴛ ᴛᴏ ��ᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇsᴛ, ʏᴏᴜ ᴍᴜsᴛ ʙᴇ ʀᴜᴛʜʟᴇss.
Gᴏᴏᴅ ʟᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs ᴍᴀᴋᴇ sᴀᴄʀɪғɪᴄᴇs.
Sᴏᴍᴇᴛɪᴍᴇs ᴛʜᴇ sᴀᴄʀɪғɪᴄᴇs ᴀʀᴇ ʜᴀʀᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴇᴡᴀʀᴅs ᴀʀᴇ ᴘʟᴇɴᴛɪғᴜʟ.
Pʀɪᴅᴇ, Eɴᴠʏ, Wʀᴀᴛʜ, Sʟᴏᴛʜ, Gʀᴇᴇᴅ, Gʟᴜᴛᴛᴏɴʏ, ᴀɴᴅ Lᴜsᴛ.
𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙮, 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙩.
7 𝑩𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆.
7 𝑻𝒂𝒔𝒌𝒔.
7 S𝒊𝒏𝒔.
This is Mason Blackwell ( Pride) story.
MY THOUGHTS
J.D Hollyfield is a new author for me and I will definitely be looking into her other works now after reading this.
This book hooked me in from the first page to the last, this is a hot addition to the Elite Seven series, the story is cleverly intertwined with Lust the first book in the series. The timing is the same but we learn Mason's (Pride) backstory and how he fits into the Elite.
Everything about Mason screams possiveness, protectiveness and pride. He sexy as sin and feircly loyal, I loved everything about him.
Meghan and Mason's chemistry is explosive, you can feel the heat come of the pages. I loved Meghan's character the sweet innocent professor by day turned naughtly little vixen at night.
I am loving this series to date and cannot wait for Wrath (The Elite Seven, #3) by Claire C. Riley.
Teasers used are from the authors Facebook page
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
MY RATINGS: (All ratings are out of 5)
HERO RATING: 5
HEROINE RATING: 5
BLUSH RATING: 4
ROMANCE RATING:4
PLOT RATING: 4
OVERALL: 4.5 Stars
══ PRIDE PRE-ORDER══
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February 26, 2019
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2EuEU8z
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Pride is the second book in The Elite Seven series and brings us back to St. Augustine. This time for Mason Blackwell aka Pride's story. I have to say, I wasn't fully invested into this story as I thought I would be. It starts before the Seven are brought together and eventually leads up to that but it seemed a little slow for me in the beginning and I wanted to get more into the heart of things. I just felt like everything could have moved a little quicker and didn't need to be as detailed in the beginning since in the end it didn't really affect too much of everything else that happened in the book. Once things started to pick up I became more into it though and I started to get excited to be able to see how Mason would handle everything.
Like the first book, I can't really say this is much of a romance but I also wasn't expecting it to be so that was something I was completely fine with. But there is still a good dose of sexiness that's involved once Mason meets Megan Thorne and you get over the very random and maybe just a little too much of a first encounter that they have. I'm all for a one night stand as a first meeting, but this chick was legit carrying around a purse full of sex toys. Again, it just felt like a little much but maybe that's just me since I still did enjoy the sexiness that was brought to the book.
Also as sort of a side note my memory is not good enough for books that have many different characters that go by more than one name. I had moments that I would get confused on who we were seeing since the story would say "Rhett" in one sentence and then the next sentence would call that same character "Lust". Then I would have to stop and realize that it's not a new character, Rhett is Lust. Which I did actually know but reading it like that was a little confusing and I'm not actually sure of all seven sins and what their real names are so I'm going to have to make a list or something before reading the next book.
So yeah, I'm a little on the fence with this book but I did enjoy this book and I'm still anticipating the next one. I really can't wait to see what else will happen with this series.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2EuEU8z
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2SngyRD
Pride is the second book in The Elite Seven series and brings us back to St. Augustine. This time for Mason Blackwell aka Pride's story. I have to say, I wasn't fully invested into this story as I thought I would be. It starts before the Seven are brought together and eventually leads up to that but it seemed a little slow for me in the beginning and I wanted to get more into the heart of things. I just felt like everything could have moved a little quicker and didn't need to be as detailed in the beginning since in the end it didn't really affect too much of everything else that happened in the book. Once things started to pick up I became more into it though and I started to get excited to be able to see how Mason would handle everything.
Like the first book, I can't really say this is much of a romance but I also wasn't expecting it to be so that was something I was completely fine with. But there is still a good dose of sexiness that's involved once Mason meets Megan Thorne and you get over the very random and maybe just a little too much of a first encounter that they have. I'm all for a one night stand as a first meeting, but this chick was legit carrying around a purse full of sex toys. Again, it just felt like a little much but maybe that's just me since I still did enjoy the sexiness that was brought to the book.
Also as sort of a side note my memory is not good enough for books that have many different characters that go by more than one name. I had moments that I would get confused on who we were seeing since the story would say "Rhett" in one sentence and then the next sentence would call that same character "Lust". Then I would have to stop and realize that it's not a new character, Rhett is Lust. Which I did actually know but reading it like that was a little confusing and I'm not actually sure of all seven sins and what their real names are so I'm going to have to make a list or something before reading the next book.
So yeah, I'm a little on the fence with this book but I did enjoy this book and I'm still anticipating the next one. I really can't wait to see what else will happen with this series.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2019
Mason Blackwell had an unstable past, but having his sister to protect kept him grounded until the choice was taken from him. Selected to be the alpha of the pack, Mason oversees his Elite brothers even though it comes with a price. Of course, Mason has his own agenda and isn’t willing forget about certain transgressions against him. Yet, Mason is tested in ways he couldn’t foresee when he meets Meghan Benedict.
“I’m not a fucking monster.” “Aren’t you, though? Agreeing to bow down to the devil herself and do her bidding? What does that truly make you, Mason?”
Broody and angry, Mason doesn’t really fit in with the student body yet he manages to stand out for his strength. Parallel to Mason’s private life, the Society members are indoctrinated and the dynamic amongst the seven brothers continues to develop. As for Meghan, she has doubts about her choices and tries to do what is right until she succumbs.
“I don’t know what I’m pleading for. He makes me want so many things, it scares me. He has me plunging deep into the thirsty sea of lust, drowning in everything he’s offering me.”
From the beginning, I liked how Mason’s struggles made him stronger and how he is not influenced by material wealth. The dynamic between he and Meghan is very steamy and it made me quite happy. Additionally, she balances Mason’s rougher side yet doesn’t want to tame the beast.
Pride is about sacrifice and vengeance. This book will appeal to those seeking a story driven by suspense with romantic elements. I continue to be curious of the other Elite members and look forward to reading their books as well.
The Elite Seven series:
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February 21, 2019
Really loved this one 4.5 Stars!
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
February 23, 2019
Title: Pride (The Elite Seven #2)
Author: J.D. Hollyfield
Publication Date: February 25, 2019
The Elite series captured my attention and just like with the first book in the series, Lust.. I was eagerly waiting to get my hands on Pride.
Now that I've read the book, I admit I am a bit confused about my feelings towards this book. So here's the thing, considering the fact that the 7 people who represent the 7 deathly sins are suppose to be an embodiment of the sins they represent, I found Mason Blackwell lacking in pride.
I don't think that Mason has that much Pride per se. Rather , I think he has a great sense of courage. Why you ask? I think it takes a person of immense strength and courage to suck up one's own ego and pride for the greater good. And I know, having read the book, that Mason is selfless. He would do anything for his loved ones. To be honest, I also felt like this book had more characteristics of Lust and Wrath.
I think the only quality of pride Mason has is the fact that he knows he is hot and that he is over confident with he knowledge that is he good *wink* *wink* ... in bed. lol!
So back to the characters! I liked Lillian and I loved the chemistry between Mason and her.
This book, Pride, made up on a whole new level with all that immense lust and obsession (that comes with an attraction between two people) that was 'lacking' in the first book (Lust) of the series.
The plot twist in Pride was really unexpected so, Bravo J.D. Hollyfield!
I think when it comes to this series, the mystery and intrigue is what captures my interest to the point where I am constantly refreshing my kindle hoping for the next book to arrive.
Next up, WRATH!
April 16, 2019
They say pride comes before the fall.
I am Mason Blackwell.
I am PRIDE
You can't help but you'll be obsessed with this series, I know I am!!! I am getting immersed in the story of the Elite society.
Mason's story is an ugly one but we learn more about the liaison with the new Elite recruits.
But I wonder about the tasks, are they real or just the means to an end?
Part of the The Elite Seven Series and are best enjoyed when read in order.
Ker Dukey:“ The stories are connected. The love stories are complete in each book, but the back story carries on throughout the series.”
“You’ve been chosen as the crème le de crème of St. Augustine, and you will be joining the ranks of the most powerful and influential members of society.
Accept your sin wisely, for the tasks given to earn your place are not for the weak...they're for THE ELITE.”
February 27, 2019
I can’t get over how twisted and deranged this novella is. J.D. Hollyfield pulled this series along, giving us deeper glimpses into The Elite Seven’s corrupt and devious world while skilfully keeping this intertwined with Lust. Sinfully delicious and compellingly manipulative, Pride will captivate your attention in its darker, more erotic entirety. I can’t seem to turn away from this enormous clusterfuck!
With the thirst for revenge and hate flowing inside me, there was no room for anything else. I could barely see passed the retribution I set to viciously achieve. But then she came along.
Having bounced from home to home, Mason Blackwell is used to monsters lurking within the shadows. When the Elite Seven approaches Mason—using his younger sister as incentive and collateral—to complete dishonest tasks and assume his position as Pride, he is pulled further into this darkened secret society of influence, manipulation and unfathomable benefits. Despite his assigned sin, Mason is selfless, swallowing his pride and egotism to protect Evie and his newfound family of brothers.
But the deeper I plummet into the abyss of our forbidden attraction, the heavier my emotions become, and I know it’s no longer just physical between us.
I didn’t know what to expect from Megan Thorne—it wasn’t a seeming innocent teacher hiding intense sultriness and unexplored kinkiness. She’s naive, loyal with fault and wholly inexperienced when dealing with romantic relationships. However, she’s an admirable sexually liberated and intelligent woman with so much goodness within this crazy world.
It is kind of difficult to consider this a romance; I wasn't expecting it to be so though after reading Lust. Mason's relationship with Megan is more defined and despite their initial encounter being unrealistically over the top, everything that happens afterwards between them will ignite your Kindle. It is intense, explosive and downright filthy.
Seeing some teasers for Wrath is making me excited to find out more about Samuel Gunner—Wrath, the next Elite Seven, in this strange albeit fascinating world.
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February 25, 2019
***COMING TOMORROW - FULL REVIEW ****
5 Pride is the Deadliest Sin CROWNS
I absolutely loved this story. From the very beginning, the story of Mason and Evie sucked me in. The anguish and torment these siblings endured was heartbreaking, and I absolutely needed him to get his HEA.
Mason Blackwell is a man who has suffered so much and for his sister, a girl who he was sworn to protect. You see him complete some dishonest tasks, but his motivation behind them creates sympathy for his character. It also results in readers rooting for him to defeat the evil that has held him in their clutches. Intertwined with the ELITE organization is the romance between Mason and Meagan, and it is thoroughly HOT.
These two will light your kindle on fire, and yet, somehow, JD Hollyfield in a short amount of time is able to inject some fun into their intense relationship. She is able to establish an emotional connection that makes their romance seem real as well as add another layer of suspense to the developing plot and conflict of the series .
I’m truly loving this series. Each book reveals a new and unexpected revelation, and I’m dying to see what we learn with Wrath and to see these unexpected brothers take on corruption.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
5 Pride is the Deadliest Sin CROWNS
I absolutely loved this story. From the very beginning, the story of Mason and Evie sucked me in. The anguish and torment these siblings endured was heartbreaking, and I absolutely needed him to get his HEA.
Mason Blackwell is a man who has suffered so much and for his sister, a girl who he was sworn to protect. You see him complete some dishonest tasks, but his motivation behind them creates sympathy for his character. It also results in readers rooting for him to defeat the evil that has held him in their clutches. Intertwined with the ELITE organization is the romance between Mason and Meagan, and it is thoroughly HOT.
These two will light your kindle on fire, and yet, somehow, JD Hollyfield in a short amount of time is able to inject some fun into their intense relationship. She is able to establish an emotional connection that makes their romance seem real as well as add another layer of suspense to the developing plot and conflict of the series .
I’m truly loving this series. Each book reveals a new and unexpected revelation, and I’m dying to see what we learn with Wrath and to see these unexpected brothers take on corruption.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
March 3, 2019
After reading the Four Fathers/Four Sons Series; the idea of these intertwined stories is one of my new favorite things. I love the concept of a team of authors working together, but still telling their own stories. I imagine it must get complicated at times.
JD Hollyfield is up in the second book, Pride. I was intrigued by Mason in the first book, wondering why he was deemed the leader - why did he seem a little closed off and intense and cold?
Well, we learn early what caused Mason to go cold. Survival. And we learn just why his sin was pride.
The chemistry between Mason and Megan was off the charts. It wasn't even the student/teacher trope that had me panting. It was just them - the way he talked to her, the way she responded. Absolute perfection.
This book was intense, it was brutal and it was sexy af. I can't wait for the rest of this series.
JD Hollyfield is up in the second book, Pride. I was intrigued by Mason in the first book, wondering why he was deemed the leader - why did he seem a little closed off and intense and cold?
Well, we learn early what caused Mason to go cold. Survival. And we learn just why his sin was pride.
The chemistry between Mason and Megan was off the charts. It wasn't even the student/teacher trope that had me panting. It was just them - the way he talked to her, the way she responded. Absolute perfection.
This book was intense, it was brutal and it was sexy af. I can't wait for the rest of this series.
February 25, 2019
4.5 rating
I finished this with an "Oh my frickin god, it's heating up and I want to get burned"
Now it's starting to feel like a series and one to get excited about, definitely, if you like suspense and a little dark, hell yes, I can't wait for the next book now.
7 authors, 7 books, 7 sinners, I for one need to confess that I loved the excitement the whole plot delivered.
Pride AKA Mason has been manipulated and blackmailed into being in the Elite. Mason went from foster care with his sister to Prison and then released and free only if he does what is expected of him.
His life has been controlled, his choices have been limited, he has been separated from his sister leaving him one choice for them to stop holding all the cards, making his life hell and that was by agreeing to be in the Elite and be their puppet. Mason went from one hell to another and although free he is still controlled.
Who are pulling the strings? That is a question I am hoping will be revealed as the series continues.
His task is to ruin Meghan Benedict the only problem is he receives his task after meeting Meghan and having a hot encounter, ruining her is the last thing on his mind.
The whole plot is filled with suspense and mystery, there's a lot more of the Elite to discover, who is pulling the strings on these 7 boys who are expected to do their bidding and how can they band together and bring down an organisation that was designed to make them powerful but at the same time is ruining their lives.
I am looking forward to how the whole series unfolds.
Meghan and Mason's relationship was hot and I am hoping to see more of them in the next book, I didn't see much of Rhett and Chastity from the previous book in Mason's story but the timelines do cross so some parts regarding these characters which were in the first book are there but from Mason's point of view.
The plot is continuous so you do need to read Lust first, starting where it all began and how the boys first meet.
Sɪɴᴄᴇ 1942, Tʜᴇ Eʟɪᴛᴇ Sᴇᴠᴇɴ Sᴏᴄɪᴇᴛʏ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ɢᴜɪᴅᴇᴅ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴛɪᴀʟ ʟᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs, ᴍᴏʟᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛʀʏ ɪɴᴛᴏ sᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ʙᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ.
Bᴜᴛ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇsᴛ, ʏᴏᴜ ᴍᴜsᴛ ʙᴇ ʀᴜᴛʜʟᴇss.
Gᴏᴏᴅ ʟᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs ᴍᴀᴋᴇ sᴀᴄʀɪғɪᴄᴇs.
Sᴏᴍᴇᴛɪᴍᴇs ᴛʜᴇ sᴀᴄʀɪғɪᴄᴇs ᴀʀᴇ ʜᴀʀᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴇᴡᴀʀᴅs ᴀʀᴇ ᴘʟᴇɴᴛɪғᴜʟ. 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙮, 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙩.
The Elite Seven Series
Lust (The Elite Seven, #1) by Ker Dukey
Pride (The Elite Seven, #2) by J.D. Hollyfield
Wrath (The Elite Seven, #3) by Claire C. Riley
Envy (The Elite Seven, #4) by M.N. Forgy
Greed (The Elite Seven, #5) by Amo Jones
Gluttony (The Elite Seven, #6) by K Webster
Sloth (The Elite Seven, #7) by Giana Darling
* ARC RECEIVED FOR REVIEW PURPOSES.
First came LUST. Then came PRIDE.
Start reading Lust #free in KU
US https://amzn.to/2Wm4mnB
UK https://amzn.to/2B5K9t3
CA https://amzn.to/2CJb4ei
AU https://amzn.to/2S9ZylT
PRIDE- Feb 25th!
Preorder - https://amzn.to/2WEDvDa
I finished this with an "Oh my frickin god, it's heating up and I want to get burned"
Now it's starting to feel like a series and one to get excited about, definitely, if you like suspense and a little dark, hell yes, I can't wait for the next book now.
7 authors, 7 books, 7 sinners, I for one need to confess that I loved the excitement the whole plot delivered.
Pride AKA Mason has been manipulated and blackmailed into being in the Elite. Mason went from foster care with his sister to Prison and then released and free only if he does what is expected of him.
His life has been controlled, his choices have been limited, he has been separated from his sister leaving him one choice for them to stop holding all the cards, making his life hell and that was by agreeing to be in the Elite and be their puppet. Mason went from one hell to another and although free he is still controlled.
Who are pulling the strings? That is a question I am hoping will be revealed as the series continues.
His task is to ruin Meghan Benedict the only problem is he receives his task after meeting Meghan and having a hot encounter, ruining her is the last thing on his mind.
The whole plot is filled with suspense and mystery, there's a lot more of the Elite to discover, who is pulling the strings on these 7 boys who are expected to do their bidding and how can they band together and bring down an organisation that was designed to make them powerful but at the same time is ruining their lives.
I am looking forward to how the whole series unfolds.
Meghan and Mason's relationship was hot and I am hoping to see more of them in the next book, I didn't see much of Rhett and Chastity from the previous book in Mason's story but the timelines do cross so some parts regarding these characters which were in the first book are there but from Mason's point of view.
The plot is continuous so you do need to read Lust first, starting where it all began and how the boys first meet.
Sɪɴᴄᴇ 1942, Tʜᴇ Eʟɪᴛᴇ Sᴇᴠᴇɴ Sᴏᴄɪᴇᴛʏ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ɢᴜɪᴅᴇᴅ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴛɪᴀʟ ʟᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs, ᴍᴏʟᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛʀʏ ɪɴᴛᴏ sᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ʙᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ.
Bᴜᴛ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇsᴛ, ʏᴏᴜ ᴍᴜsᴛ ʙᴇ ʀᴜᴛʜʟᴇss.
Gᴏᴏᴅ ʟᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs ᴍᴀᴋᴇ sᴀᴄʀɪғɪᴄᴇs.
Sᴏᴍᴇᴛɪᴍᴇs ᴛʜᴇ sᴀᴄʀɪғɪᴄᴇs ᴀʀᴇ ʜᴀʀᴅ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴇᴡᴀʀᴅs ᴀʀᴇ ᴘʟᴇɴᴛɪғᴜʟ. 𝘾𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙞𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙮, 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙪𝙩.
The Elite Seven Series
Lust (The Elite Seven, #1) by Ker Dukey
Pride (The Elite Seven, #2) by J.D. Hollyfield
Wrath (The Elite Seven, #3) by Claire C. Riley
Envy (The Elite Seven, #4) by M.N. Forgy
Greed (The Elite Seven, #5) by Amo Jones
Gluttony (The Elite Seven, #6) by K Webster
Sloth (The Elite Seven, #7) by Giana Darling
* ARC RECEIVED FOR REVIEW PURPOSES.
First came LUST. Then came PRIDE.
Start reading Lust #free in KU
US https://amzn.to/2Wm4mnB
UK https://amzn.to/2B5K9t3
CA https://amzn.to/2CJb4ei
AU https://amzn.to/2S9ZylT
PRIDE- Feb 25th!
Preorder - https://amzn.to/2WEDvDa
Read
March 2, 2019REVIEW: DNF and very paced review....
This was definitely a start to Mason's book, and Pride was definitely his book, his sin. Most definitely. It played very well into his upbringing and the way he handled his business, but it was a rough start. Tumultuous doesn't even begin to describe this book. Having said that, I did have a hard time in the beginning and this hard time weaved itself throughout the entire book. It was so frustrating to see how everything started out and played into Mason's world.
With that frustration came some serious hatred. I struggled so much, and I wish I could pinpoint exactly what it was, other than this one never really picked up for me and the necessary explanations weren't there while the overly described unnecessary parts were overabundant. Why is Lillian so instrumental - who is she - and why was that whole beginning of this story even necessary? It was, like, kindle throwing maddening!! These are only a few of the questions that I hope to find answers to as this series progresses, but I couldn't make it through this one to get some of the important answers. I have been reading this book for a few days now, and I have struggled every day, so I know that I needed to put it down. I got increasingly frustrated the longer it took me and the more sighs I expelled, which is the step right before I start skimming and I count a skim as a DNF because I can't get through it in one piece. I kid you not, this book put me in a terribly bad mood while I read it. It was so grotesque the way Lillian handled every little thing she said and did - with some of it being very unbelievable. It wasn't even a pleasure to read - which I am sure was the exact intention for her character's persona as seen by Hollyfield. I can't lie and say it was easy to read. The hatred for her was coming off me in waves and the anger was literally pissing me off, and again - I'm sure that's the emotional mindset Hollyfield would have loved to have me in for this character. But seriously -- pissed.me.off. I love angst and heavy emotional stories, but when helplessness mixes in with anger, it starts to take a whole new turn. Helpless because of the drama in the first 20% that you cannot even begin to manage, or even how to control the rage of the selfishness and the ludicrousness that surrounds it, and the anger because you want to beat an ass - HARD.
The lack of communication and secret holding in this one was high and quite frustrating - which plays into the meaning of Pride, being too proud to let weakness show, but why, if these are the boys of your brotherhood and supposed best friends, would you hold out the truth and the information from them. Same with your sister/brother. I really had a hard time with that aspect, and it didn't make much sense in the whole scheme of things but Hollyfield's writing conned me into staying a little bit longer. She definitely lured me in with some parts but I have to admit I didn't enjoy this as much as I wanted to.
It was neat to read the story from another perspective, even though there was a lot of overlay. This was not necessarily the same story being retold, but more like seeing the story from another POV being embellished from another side. It's an entirely different perspective and some of the same happenings are there to tie the stories together, but it was interesting to read it this way. With each book being as short as it has been so far, this is a rather interesting way to tell this group's tale. I also liked that they've been told mostly from the Elite Seven POV....the male POV. So far, two very differing and warring and very volatile opinions on the Elite Seven from one book to the next, from one character to the next. Polar opposite desires and yet, the outcome is the same...I still fell like I need more. I want more....but this one just wasn't working for me.
I will say that some parts felt very forced or unnecessary and with Megan trying to explain why she had certain proclivities felt very.....forced, for the lack of a better word. Don't make romance readers feel bad for their love of a good romance book or feel the need to justify their likes and desires, regardless of the content. I guess that didn't sit too well with me, but again - interesting POV change and telling, just the writing felt a little forced.
I don't want this to read as a negative review in general, please understand that. I feel that this book is instrumental in the overall traction for the storyline, but I had a really hard time with it and some of the elements of it left me quite salty over it all. I have now seen the crossover in the stories between Lust and Pride, so I am hoping to gain more knowledge with each additional book. I am enjoying the basic storyline that is unfolding while I read, so this is an easy series to follow so far - but I think the harshness of this one just did me in. I would *not* recommend reading these out of order, though. The buildup and the character growth in each book adds to the background, and in turn giving you better insight as you get deeper into the Seven. I cant wait to check out WRATH next.
~BEE
AMAZON AA LINK: https://amzn.to/2H7pkBg
NO GIVEAWAY SINCE THIS WAS A DNF REVIEW
This was definitely a start to Mason's book, and Pride was definitely his book, his sin. Most definitely. It played very well into his upbringing and the way he handled his business, but it was a rough start. Tumultuous doesn't even begin to describe this book. Having said that, I did have a hard time in the beginning and this hard time weaved itself throughout the entire book. It was so frustrating to see how everything started out and played into Mason's world.
With that frustration came some serious hatred. I struggled so much, and I wish I could pinpoint exactly what it was, other than this one never really picked up for me and the necessary explanations weren't there while the overly described unnecessary parts were overabundant. Why is Lillian so instrumental - who is she - and why was that whole beginning of this story even necessary? It was, like, kindle throwing maddening!! These are only a few of the questions that I hope to find answers to as this series progresses, but I couldn't make it through this one to get some of the important answers. I have been reading this book for a few days now, and I have struggled every day, so I know that I needed to put it down. I got increasingly frustrated the longer it took me and the more sighs I expelled, which is the step right before I start skimming and I count a skim as a DNF because I can't get through it in one piece. I kid you not, this book put me in a terribly bad mood while I read it. It was so grotesque the way Lillian handled every little thing she said and did - with some of it being very unbelievable. It wasn't even a pleasure to read - which I am sure was the exact intention for her character's persona as seen by Hollyfield. I can't lie and say it was easy to read. The hatred for her was coming off me in waves and the anger was literally pissing me off, and again - I'm sure that's the emotional mindset Hollyfield would have loved to have me in for this character. But seriously -- pissed.me.off. I love angst and heavy emotional stories, but when helplessness mixes in with anger, it starts to take a whole new turn. Helpless because of the drama in the first 20% that you cannot even begin to manage, or even how to control the rage of the selfishness and the ludicrousness that surrounds it, and the anger because you want to beat an ass - HARD.
The lack of communication and secret holding in this one was high and quite frustrating - which plays into the meaning of Pride, being too proud to let weakness show, but why, if these are the boys of your brotherhood and supposed best friends, would you hold out the truth and the information from them. Same with your sister/brother. I really had a hard time with that aspect, and it didn't make much sense in the whole scheme of things but Hollyfield's writing conned me into staying a little bit longer. She definitely lured me in with some parts but I have to admit I didn't enjoy this as much as I wanted to.
It was neat to read the story from another perspective, even though there was a lot of overlay. This was not necessarily the same story being retold, but more like seeing the story from another POV being embellished from another side. It's an entirely different perspective and some of the same happenings are there to tie the stories together, but it was interesting to read it this way. With each book being as short as it has been so far, this is a rather interesting way to tell this group's tale. I also liked that they've been told mostly from the Elite Seven POV....the male POV. So far, two very differing and warring and very volatile opinions on the Elite Seven from one book to the next, from one character to the next. Polar opposite desires and yet, the outcome is the same...I still fell like I need more. I want more....but this one just wasn't working for me.
I will say that some parts felt very forced or unnecessary and with Megan trying to explain why she had certain proclivities felt very.....forced, for the lack of a better word. Don't make romance readers feel bad for their love of a good romance book or feel the need to justify their likes and desires, regardless of the content. I guess that didn't sit too well with me, but again - interesting POV change and telling, just the writing felt a little forced.
I don't want this to read as a negative review in general, please understand that. I feel that this book is instrumental in the overall traction for the storyline, but I had a really hard time with it and some of the elements of it left me quite salty over it all. I have now seen the crossover in the stories between Lust and Pride, so I am hoping to gain more knowledge with each additional book. I am enjoying the basic storyline that is unfolding while I read, so this is an easy series to follow so far - but I think the harshness of this one just did me in. I would *not* recommend reading these out of order, though. The buildup and the character growth in each book adds to the background, and in turn giving you better insight as you get deeper into the Seven. I cant wait to check out WRATH next.
~BEE
AMAZON AA LINK: https://amzn.to/2H7pkBg
NO GIVEAWAY SINCE THIS WAS A DNF REVIEW
February 27, 2019
Series is improving
We pick up in part to with the sin of Pride. He is in charge of the other six. This could be a stand alone but some items are better developed in past one. To help show character arcs in some of e the characters.
We pick up in part to with the sin of Pride. He is in charge of the other six. This could be a stand alone but some items are better developed in past one. To help show character arcs in some of e the characters.
August 9, 2019
Whoa
How to effectively write this review without it being refused? Just read it. If you thought the first instalment was great, Pride is even better. I can't get enough of this series and can't wait to get my grubby little hands on the next one!!
How to effectively write this review without it being refused? Just read it. If you thought the first instalment was great, Pride is even better. I can't get enough of this series and can't wait to get my grubby little hands on the next one!!
July 3, 2022
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Excellent - Highly Recommended
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
May 4, 2019
Release Date: February 25, 2019
Genre: New Adult Romance. Forbidden Romance. Dark romance.
Actual Rating: 5 stars
Damn! J.D. Hollyfield did this book JUSTICE. I really enjoyed Lust, but so far this is my favorite! I can tell that this is going to be an EPIC series. For those who are new to these books please note that they are new adult, college romances, with DARK elements. These books, while the romance aspects can stand alone, should be read in ORDER. You will miss out on too much if you read it out of order (i.e. how it all started, how all the stories tie in together). I also want to warn readers that this book could have possible triggers for some. While sexual abuse and things like that aren't openly discussed throughout the novel, the ending of the book does talk about it (something that happens to one of the characters).
In this book readers will hear Pride's story. I'll admit, at first I thought his circumstances were a bit unrealistic. But then I kept reading and realized that while is life went horribly wrong because of a sinister person (who was supposed to protect him), it made sense in terms of the overall story and series. I still have a few unanswered questions, but despite these I can't think of any way in which this book could be better than it already is. It's a twisty book (and series) and one that I can't help but devour page by page.
Now on to the romance... Pride meets a woman in a bar. Having no intention of getting involved with a woman (he literally just came back from hell), he can't help but find himself attracted to the dirty talking woman before him. After a night of passion (and HIGHLY kinky sex) he thinks it'll be the last he sees of her. Until he walks into her classroom... YES! My friends we have a student/teacher romance here and it was DELIGHTFULLY SCANDALOUS. I was blushing the whole way through.
Not only is she is teacher, but she is also unknowingly embroiled in the Elite Seven. And not in a good way... Want to know how? Read it and find out- I promise, it's good!
If you are looking for a new book/series, I HIGHLY recommend this one. These books keep getting better and better and I am so excited to dive into Wrath's story next. Especially after the way this one ended...
Genre: New Adult Romance. Forbidden Romance. Dark romance.
Actual Rating: 5 stars
Damn! J.D. Hollyfield did this book JUSTICE. I really enjoyed Lust, but so far this is my favorite! I can tell that this is going to be an EPIC series. For those who are new to these books please note that they are new adult, college romances, with DARK elements. These books, while the romance aspects can stand alone, should be read in ORDER. You will miss out on too much if you read it out of order (i.e. how it all started, how all the stories tie in together). I also want to warn readers that this book could have possible triggers for some. While sexual abuse and things like that aren't openly discussed throughout the novel, the ending of the book does talk about it (something that happens to one of the characters).
In this book readers will hear Pride's story. I'll admit, at first I thought his circumstances were a bit unrealistic. But then I kept reading and realized that while is life went horribly wrong because of a sinister person (who was supposed to protect him), it made sense in terms of the overall story and series. I still have a few unanswered questions, but despite these I can't think of any way in which this book could be better than it already is. It's a twisty book (and series) and one that I can't help but devour page by page.
Now on to the romance... Pride meets a woman in a bar. Having no intention of getting involved with a woman (he literally just came back from hell), he can't help but find himself attracted to the dirty talking woman before him. After a night of passion (and HIGHLY kinky sex) he thinks it'll be the last he sees of her. Until he walks into her classroom... YES! My friends we have a student/teacher romance here and it was DELIGHTFULLY SCANDALOUS. I was blushing the whole way through.
Not only is she is teacher, but she is also unknowingly embroiled in the Elite Seven. And not in a good way... Want to know how? Read it and find out- I promise, it's good!
If you are looking for a new book/series, I HIGHLY recommend this one. These books keep getting better and better and I am so excited to dive into Wrath's story next. Especially after the way this one ended...
March 5, 2019
Crackalicious! That’s what this series is so far. Once you start, I guarantee you’ll be hooked!! Pride by J.D. Hollyfield is book two in the Elite Seven series, and I’m thrilled to say that it was one heart-stopping novel.
Mason Blackwell, AKA Pride, had me wiping away my tears for him as I read about his horrific childhood. His only concern is the wellbeing of his sister and he’ll go to every length to protect her.
“Pride is more than the first of the seven deadly sins; it is the essence of all sin.”
The devil in disguise has other plans though, and Mason will stop at nothing to destroy the evil around him. When he’s handed his task—bringing down Meghan Benedict, let me just tell you—I was gripping my Kindle so hard! Mason + Meghan together will have you all heated up. Their chemistry is 🔥 and God, I was fanning myself!!
“I have a full bag of goodies over there. If you’re up for it, I say we move on to round two.”
It’s settled.
I’ve fallen in love.
With so many layers to this Elite club and many more secrets waiting to be exposed, I’m literally bursting at the seams to get my hands on the rest of the books!!
This series is addicting and God, I need more!!
Mason Blackwell, AKA Pride, had me wiping away my tears for him as I read about his horrific childhood. His only concern is the wellbeing of his sister and he’ll go to every length to protect her.
“Pride is more than the first of the seven deadly sins; it is the essence of all sin.”
The devil in disguise has other plans though, and Mason will stop at nothing to destroy the evil around him. When he’s handed his task—bringing down Meghan Benedict, let me just tell you—I was gripping my Kindle so hard! Mason + Meghan together will have you all heated up. Their chemistry is 🔥 and God, I was fanning myself!!
“I have a full bag of goodies over there. If you’re up for it, I say we move on to round two.”
It’s settled.
I’ve fallen in love.
With so many layers to this Elite club and many more secrets waiting to be exposed, I’m literally bursting at the seams to get my hands on the rest of the books!!
This series is addicting and God, I need more!!
February 22, 2019
I am OBSESSED!!! The story is going deeper. Secrets are coming out. The truth is ugly. But love always WINS!
This series has quickly become an all-time favorite. And throw in a little taboo romance and I’m totally sold! I do not want to ruin all the the secrets you will discover as you read. Just know that you will get sucked into this story and you will ALWAYS want more!
Mason is PRIDE. He's the alpha of his group of the Elite Seven. That's a big burden to take on and it's not as if he was given a choice. His past forced him to where he is now.
You will be given Mason's story of how he became Elite. He is tough, resilient and willing to make any sacrifice to protect his sister.
Mason's task to achieve and maintain his Elite status is going to test him in every way. No task given ever comes without losing something of yourself. The choice is yours. How much of your soul are you willing to sacrifice for status and wealth?
PRIDE was sexy, suspenseful and a total page-turner!!! I loved it and now I NEED MORE!!!
This series has quickly become an all-time favorite. And throw in a little taboo romance and I’m totally sold! I do not want to ruin all the the secrets you will discover as you read. Just know that you will get sucked into this story and you will ALWAYS want more!
Mason is PRIDE. He's the alpha of his group of the Elite Seven. That's a big burden to take on and it's not as if he was given a choice. His past forced him to where he is now.
You will be given Mason's story of how he became Elite. He is tough, resilient and willing to make any sacrifice to protect his sister.
Mason's task to achieve and maintain his Elite status is going to test him in every way. No task given ever comes without losing something of yourself. The choice is yours. How much of your soul are you willing to sacrifice for status and wealth?
PRIDE was sexy, suspenseful and a total page-turner!!! I loved it and now I NEED MORE!!!
March 15, 2019
I didn't know what to expect, as the start of this book was a struggle. How does "SHE" have so much power, but that seems to be the Elite!! It was amazing to read about Mason fighting back.........
May 2, 2019
Oooohh, this is getting good. Definitely have to read these in order. Can’t wait to start the next in the series.
February 23, 2019
The twists keep coming! Secrets and mystery and suspense all rolled into one pleasurable package! I'm addicted!
The second book in the The Elite Seven Series, you must read these in order, start with Lust by Ker Dukey. This series is more about the secrets that surround the elite, in my opinion, the romance is just a bonus. And I'm ok with that. I want all the answers, peeling back each layer is exciting, every gritty twist leads to another.
Pride isn't cut from the same cloth as the other elite, as far I know, anyway. Forced, manipulated to take part in a devious game. His anger jumps from the pages and grabs you by the throat. Me likes it.
"I’ve gone completely mad with hatred and revenge. I bare my teeth, ready to rip the veins out of her neck and watch her bleed to death."
AND there's taboo, Y'all. A forbidden thing, can't say what. No spoilers from me. Hehehe! I loved every dirty second. I could do without all the abrupt love, because I didn't feel that. But, I sure loved their smoking affair. And a happy for now, would've felt more real to me. I know, this is fiction. Whatever.
Anyway, there's so many more twists and turns and hot elite guys to come! I went back to Lust and searched key words, trying to find Easter eggs. It's a seven story web and I'd be happy to ride in the trunk for the rest of this twisted ride. I want all of them. That little wait between books will fuel my need for answers.
The second book in the The Elite Seven Series, you must read these in order, start with Lust by Ker Dukey. This series is more about the secrets that surround the elite, in my opinion, the romance is just a bonus. And I'm ok with that. I want all the answers, peeling back each layer is exciting, every gritty twist leads to another.
Pride isn't cut from the same cloth as the other elite, as far I know, anyway. Forced, manipulated to take part in a devious game. His anger jumps from the pages and grabs you by the throat. Me likes it.
"I’ve gone completely mad with hatred and revenge. I bare my teeth, ready to rip the veins out of her neck and watch her bleed to death."
AND there's taboo, Y'all. A forbidden thing, can't say what. No spoilers from me. Hehehe! I loved every dirty second. I could do without all the abrupt love, because I didn't feel that. But, I sure loved their smoking affair. And a happy for now, would've felt more real to me. I know, this is fiction. Whatever.
Anyway, there's so many more twists and turns and hot elite guys to come! I went back to Lust and searched key words, trying to find Easter eggs. It's a seven story web and I'd be happy to ride in the trunk for the rest of this twisted ride. I want all of them. That little wait between books will fuel my need for answers.
February 24, 2019
I can't keep this in...I am having a proud "been there from the first word" moment. This book. GIRL...This book was so entertaining. I can't tell you how many times I got lost in the story and had to remind myself, I was late for my job, or my kids have to eat blah blah blah. I was completely overwhelmed by the intrigue, intensity and WTF is going to happen to everyone around that I couldn't stop reading. I have read every word Ms Hollyfield has written and every book I am blown away with the MORE. There is humor, serious shit happening, grief, heartbreak, and so much angsty goodness I was sated in the best of ways. Ms. Hollyfield NAILED it and not only that now she has me so IN I am reading all of these damn books. I HAVE to know what happened, so I had to click book one and now I will be meeting new authors and following all the brothers of the Elite seven. SOLD. I am proud. This story was amazing and I can't wait to read what she has in store for me next.
February 25, 2019
Absolutely freakin amazing
Well J D Hollyfield you just raised the bar then raised it some more!!
Amazingly gripping read that hooks you with the turn of every page.
Book 2 in the elite 7 continues with pride,Mason is the alpha of the brotherhood but not by choice, since being younger every choice has been made by the puppeteer pulling his strings making his life hell and he does it all for the protection of his sister Evie,but his biggest test is the sin he is given,can he forfil his sin to protect her or does his pride faulter?
"You're the alpha.Pride.I didn't choose you so you can tap out,pet.I chose you because you will finish the job,no matter the consequences."
I cannot praise this book enough, I could feel the emotion in every word the anger,love,lust everything you could want in a book ,it left me screaming at my kindle needing more.
Cannot wait for wrath .
Well J D Hollyfield you just raised the bar then raised it some more!!
Amazingly gripping read that hooks you with the turn of every page.
Book 2 in the elite 7 continues with pride,Mason is the alpha of the brotherhood but not by choice, since being younger every choice has been made by the puppeteer pulling his strings making his life hell and he does it all for the protection of his sister Evie,but his biggest test is the sin he is given,can he forfil his sin to protect her or does his pride faulter?
"You're the alpha.Pride.I didn't choose you so you can tap out,pet.I chose you because you will finish the job,no matter the consequences."
I cannot praise this book enough, I could feel the emotion in every word the anger,love,lust everything you could want in a book ,it left me screaming at my kindle needing more.
Cannot wait for wrath .
March 16, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
There isn’t much new to say here, except I really liked Mason and Megan. They’re both multi-dimensional characters. I have a feeling that this series will never churn out a five star for me, but the sex and suspense is good enough to make it never dip below a four. All in all, these books are good reads, even if you don’t remember them forever.
There isn’t much new to say here, except I really liked Mason and Megan. They’re both multi-dimensional characters. I have a feeling that this series will never churn out a five star for me, but the sex and suspense is good enough to make it never dip below a four. All in all, these books are good reads, even if you don’t remember them forever.
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