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Baal's Heart #3
Fated: Blood and Redemption
Novel (117,000+ words)
Genre(s): Historical Fantasy, Erotic Action/Adventure, Polyamory, LGBT+/GSM
With the captain’s mind in shambles, Jon and Tom set out to find the passage home through the black mountain range, hoping to find a cure for Baltsaros’s madness. However, when the men are forced to part ways, darkness takes root in the schism created; fate, lust, and vengeance become obsessions threatening to tear apart the fragile bonds holding the three together.
Following on the heels of Sacrificed, Fated takes the pirates on a quest to find those responsible for the captain’s bloody beginnings. But can they survive what awaits them where past and present meet?
Genre(s): Historical Fantasy, Erotic Action/Adventure, Polyamory, LGBT+/GSM
With the captain’s mind in shambles, Jon and Tom set out to find the passage home through the black mountain range, hoping to find a cure for Baltsaros’s madness. However, when the men are forced to part ways, darkness takes root in the schism created; fate, lust, and vengeance become obsessions threatening to tear apart the fragile bonds holding the three together.
Following on the heels of Sacrificed, Fated takes the pirates on a quest to find those responsible for the captain’s bloody beginnings. But can they survive what awaits them where past and present meet?
315 pages, ebook
First published April 11, 2015
About the author
Bey Deckard
26 books687 followersArtist, dog lover, and writer of very queer, very adult fiction.
Bey Deckard is the author of a number of novels including the Baal’s Heart books, Max, Beauty and His Beast, and Better the Devil You Know.
Bey lives in Montréal, Canada where he spends most of his time writing, doing graphic work, painting portraits, speaking French, cooking tasty vegetarian eats, or watching more movies than is good for him. If you’re the curious type, www.beydeckard.com is where you’ll find art and free stories by Bey as well as information on his published works.
Bey Deckard is the author of a number of novels including the Baal’s Heart books, Max, Beauty and His Beast, and Better the Devil You Know.
Bey lives in Montréal, Canada where he spends most of his time writing, doing graphic work, painting portraits, speaking French, cooking tasty vegetarian eats, or watching more movies than is good for him. If you’re the curious type, www.beydeckard.com is where you’ll find art and free stories by Bey as well as information on his published works.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
January 2, 2024
Yes.
A million times, YES.
Bloggers don't always have the luxury of reading exactly what they want when they want. We've got schedules and deadlines to stick to, and I take that shit seriously... So understand how enthralled I am by this series when I tell you I dropped everything to read this book.
I tried to stick to my schedule, but these characters were tempting me away from prior obligations. I gave in to temptation and I am so very glad that I did.
This book is flawlessly written.
The characters are extraordinary.
The plot line is gripping.
The details are gorgeous.
If you're looking for hackneyed and campy stories of sex and piracy, you won't find them in the world Bey Deckard has created...
What you will find is a brilliant series which bends the genres of Action, Adventure, Historical Romance, and Erotica...
Love,
Lust,
Fate,
Madness,
Redemption...
JON
Miles away - literally & figuratively - from where he started in the first book. In Caged: Love and Treachery on the High Seas, Jon was kidnapped and imprisoned on a pirate ship. He was weak and sickly and oh so innocent...
When we begin our journey in Fated: Blood and Redemption, Jon is Captain of Baal's Heart with Tom as his First Mate and Baltsaros is locked in the infamous cage inside the Captain's quarters. My how times have changed. Jon's struggle to maintain the respect of his crew is second only to his struggle to maintain a sense of morality when it's so easy to rule with fear and death.
Jon worries for Baltsaros and is lucky to have Tom by his side as they sail home...
TOM
Tom's past is told throughout this book in flashbacks which shed light on his relationship with Baltsaros. Those memories from Tom's past (told though both Baltsaros and Tom's POV) were wonderfully enlightening and beautifully incorporated into the narrative - flashbacks are tricky, but Bey Deckard has mastered the art.
BALTSAROS
Jon and Tom managed save his broken body from the Emperor's prison, but Baltsaros the man - the eloquent, predatory, whip-smart sea captain - was completely eclipsed by the murderous animal hidden within his psyche.
It was a tumbling violent fall from grace which was fascinating to read and kept me on the edge of my seat. His fight to regain his own mind was every bit as riveting...
Madness
The former Captain's lucid moments are few and far between - broken both mentally and physically, his violent outbursts put the entire crew in danger.
With Jon at the helm and a weary Tom at his side as Fist Mate, it's a race to get Baal's Heart back to the island of Madierus where Baltsaros might find the time and sanctuary to heal.
Lust
The Heart picked up several new crew members and passengers before leaving Ereme'ia Balor. One such crew member, Saban, has attracted the attention of both Tom and Jon. We fist met the former Balorian slave when Tom broke his arm in a fight at the inn. There's no hard feelings between the two men, in fact, there's a heated attraction growing between them.
Saban becomes the unofficial nursemaid to the ailing Baltsaros as The Heart sets sail, and the big man's proximity lands him in more than a few voyeuristic situations inside the Captain's quarters... As though our favorite pirate threesome needed yet another obstacle wrapped in lust and jealousy to overcome.
Fate
A connection between Jon and the Queen is revealed, one which sheds light on how Baltsaros became aware of the young man's talents in the first place. We learn of the events leading to Jon's kidnapping and the battle which led Baltsaros to his decision to find Jon and bring him aboard The Heart.
The foreboding images in Jon's dreams are increasing in intensity, and he knows better than to ignore his instincts - after all, his metaphor-laced dreams warned him of the dangers in Ereme'ia Balor and we all saw what happened when those warnings were ignored...
As if the poor boy wasn't worried enough, a card reader tells Jon his future and the troubling images of her reading leaves him reeling. Jon is set on edge by her accuracy and becomes obsessed with attempting to decipher her prophesies.
Redemption
As Captain Balsaros works toward returning to sanity, he is forced to confront many long-burried memories. The root cause of his life-long affair with blood-lust is revealed, and the decision is made to return to his origins and set right the wrongs of his past.
It's one more adventure on the high seas for Baal's Heart one which will have lasting effects no matter the outcome.
I'm sure I could go on and on about this lovely book, but I'll leave you here...
I HIGHLY recommend reading this series.
This not the last word we'll hear from this elaborate world of pirates and lust - Bey Deckard will be releasing a book about Saban in the near future. I'm also in the process of bribing him with rum and virgin sacrifices in the hopes that we'll check back in with my three favorite pirates eventually...
Pretty please?
With puppies on top?
A million times, YES.
Their relationship would continue to grow, to change. There would always be pain, and they would be tested... Their triad had the shakiest of foundations, based as it was on mistrust, jealousy, and deception. But ships didn't need pillars pounded into the earth; no, they needed strong, protective hulls that could carry them over the ever-changing waves of an uncaring sea. With trust, hope... love - all things they had built together - they could weather anything.I hereby give this series ALL of the stars. I expected great things from the third book in the Baal's Heart series, and I was not disappointed.
Bloggers don't always have the luxury of reading exactly what they want when they want. We've got schedules and deadlines to stick to, and I take that shit seriously... So understand how enthralled I am by this series when I tell you I dropped everything to read this book.
I tried to stick to my schedule, but these characters were tempting me away from prior obligations. I gave in to temptation and I am so very glad that I did.
This book is flawlessly written.
The characters are extraordinary.
The plot line is gripping.
The details are gorgeous.
If you're looking for hackneyed and campy stories of sex and piracy, you won't find them in the world Bey Deckard has created...
What you will find is a brilliant series which bends the genres of Action, Adventure, Historical Romance, and Erotica...
Love,
Lust,
Fate,
Madness,
Redemption...
JON
Oh, they would probably die, but he'd die knowing Baltsaros's heart, and that warmed him like nothing else.Jon has has grown up so much of the course of this series.
Miles away - literally & figuratively - from where he started in the first book. In Caged: Love and Treachery on the High Seas, Jon was kidnapped and imprisoned on a pirate ship. He was weak and sickly and oh so innocent...
When we begin our journey in Fated: Blood and Redemption, Jon is Captain of Baal's Heart with Tom as his First Mate and Baltsaros is locked in the infamous cage inside the Captain's quarters. My how times have changed. Jon's struggle to maintain the respect of his crew is second only to his struggle to maintain a sense of morality when it's so easy to rule with fear and death.
Jon worries for Baltsaros and is lucky to have Tom by his side as they sail home...
TOM
His rebellious soul, the true pain he rarely let surface, the memories that burned like a prison in his heart - all of it fell away when Baltsaros stripped him of control. It was like losing the fight but winning the battle; it was defeat and love and courage and need... Tom felt himself relax into it.The man we've come to know as eternally affable is slowly slipping away. Tom worries about the darkest parts of Jon exposing themselves as the young man embraces this life of piracy. He worries that Baltsaros may never be the man he once was. The two men he has grown to love are being pulled away from him by violence and madness.
Tom's past is told throughout this book in flashbacks which shed light on his relationship with Baltsaros. Those memories from Tom's past (told though both Baltsaros and Tom's POV) were wonderfully enlightening and beautifully incorporated into the narrative - flashbacks are tricky, but Bey Deckard has mastered the art.
BALTSAROS
A man lost in his own brain, he had to dive into open wounds and strange waters to find his way through the burnt labyrinth.In the previous book in the series, Sacrificed: Heart Beyond the Spires, Baltsaros had a delicate grip on his sanity - He was fighting against his bloodlust and looking for salvation. Unfortunately, his search landed him in a twisted prison which stripped him of his humanity.
Jon and Tom managed save his broken body from the Emperor's prison, but Baltsaros the man - the eloquent, predatory, whip-smart sea captain - was completely eclipsed by the murderous animal hidden within his psyche.
It was a tumbling violent fall from grace which was fascinating to read and kept me on the edge of my seat. His fight to regain his own mind was every bit as riveting...
Madness
The former Captain's lucid moments are few and far between - broken both mentally and physically, his violent outbursts put the entire crew in danger.
With Jon at the helm and a weary Tom at his side as Fist Mate, it's a race to get Baal's Heart back to the island of Madierus where Baltsaros might find the time and sanctuary to heal.
Lust
The Heart picked up several new crew members and passengers before leaving Ereme'ia Balor. One such crew member, Saban, has attracted the attention of both Tom and Jon. We fist met the former Balorian slave when Tom broke his arm in a fight at the inn. There's no hard feelings between the two men, in fact, there's a heated attraction growing between them.
Saban becomes the unofficial nursemaid to the ailing Baltsaros as The Heart sets sail, and the big man's proximity lands him in more than a few voyeuristic situations inside the Captain's quarters... As though our favorite pirate threesome needed yet another obstacle wrapped in lust and jealousy to overcome.
Fate
A connection between Jon and the Queen is revealed, one which sheds light on how Baltsaros became aware of the young man's talents in the first place. We learn of the events leading to Jon's kidnapping and the battle which led Baltsaros to his decision to find Jon and bring him aboard The Heart.
The foreboding images in Jon's dreams are increasing in intensity, and he knows better than to ignore his instincts - after all, his metaphor-laced dreams warned him of the dangers in Ereme'ia Balor and we all saw what happened when those warnings were ignored...
As if the poor boy wasn't worried enough, a card reader tells Jon his future and the troubling images of her reading leaves him reeling. Jon is set on edge by her accuracy and becomes obsessed with attempting to decipher her prophesies.
Redemption
As Captain Balsaros works toward returning to sanity, he is forced to confront many long-burried memories. The root cause of his life-long affair with blood-lust is revealed, and the decision is made to return to his origins and set right the wrongs of his past.
It's one more adventure on the high seas for Baal's Heart one which will have lasting effects no matter the outcome.
I'm sure I could go on and on about this lovely book, but I'll leave you here...
I HIGHLY recommend reading this series.
This not the last word we'll hear from this elaborate world of pirates and lust - Bey Deckard will be releasing a book about Saban in the near future. I'm also in the process of bribing him with rum and virgin sacrifices in the hopes that we'll check back in with my three favorite pirates eventually...
Pretty please?
With puppies on top?
April 12, 2015
Um...I hated it. j/k
It had all the things. Loved it. One of my faves for the year.
GROUP REVIEW with a couple of unicorns:
Nearly a year ago, I got to meet Bey Deckard's pirates, Jon, Tom and Baltsaros. These three men were damaged, cutthroat, vulnerable, sexy and had one hell of a story to tell. The story telling was vivid, the quality was superb. Book #1, Caged cemented itself on my 2014 favorites list. I wouldn't shut up about it. Blabbed to everyone to read this book and if you haven't, seriously read this book. I felt like I got my deepest wish -I'm a bit of a pirate geek. And I never frown upon the kink. Then Book #2, Sacrificed dropped later last year, and I actually read it. (I'm not one for gobbling a series so soon these days unless I'm impressed) I came to care for these men-they were fucked up, fantasy personified, they were gritty and flawed...couldn't help being drawn to them. And now finally, the end of the trilogy..."Fated".
I had high hopes for this one. I listed things that I wanted in this book in my previous reviews: Tom, kink, more adventure and Tom. And I got them all!!
"Their relationship would continue to grow, to change. There would always be pain, and they would be tested... Their triad had the shakiest of foundations, based as it was on mistrust, jealousy, and deception. But ships didn't need pillars pounded into the earth; no, they needed strong, protective hulls that could carry them over the ever-changing waves of an uncaring sea. With trust, hope... love--all things they had built together--they could weather anything."
I didn't think it was more possible to care for these three pirates but I did after reading "Fated". Each book in this series is my favorite but for different reasons. Possible trigger warning: rape, violence.
"Fated" starts where "Sacrificed" left off, Baltsaros damaged and in need of serious TLC, Jon & Tom trying to come to terms with the changes. Their triad formed in "Caged", their foundation was built in "Sacrificed" and in "Fated"? They were tested, by each other and outside forces. But their bond was solid. (Though I'll admit to being nervous about a certain character who'll be getting their own book in the future making the triad a quadrouple!) There was more action of the pirating kind. We got to truly learn the backgrounds of Tom and Baltsaros- what made them tick, what shaped them into the men they became to be. This was Baltsaros' book - we get to travel to his homeland, learn his secrets but Tom and Jon were not forgotten. They provided laughs, heart and sex.
My favorite quote (I laughed so hard and still am):
"I'm gonna ask ye ladies a question, and I bloody expect to be answered," he growled. "Who's the scoundrel been doin' some unwanted rootin' of yer cunts for pay?"
You know what this author delivers really well? The painting a scene...I swear I smelled their smells, I saw what they saw in just a few words. The flashbacks helped provide background and set the tone for the book. Comparing the throuple in Caged to Fated, they evolved. That is key for making a triad work for me, I need a solid bond - don't give me perfect, I don't need to read hearts and flowers and I want each person to maintain their sense of self. And the dark intertwined with story was pretty well done - glad it didn't fluff it up and stayed true to the men.
Know what else I enjoyed? The sex. Holy cock rings, Batman was that hot. ;P DP and rope bondage? Yes please. Oh! Oh! Oh! And I got two scenes besides ropes and toys that I really, really wanted more of. Hint: the not so usual bottom. I am a happy lady pirate!
I don't want to spoil because if you're reading this, you're probably down with the pirates and want to know what happens in the final showdown. There is pirate action: some thievery, battling on the sea. We get to visit favorite places. It ends with HEA (for a minute, I was nervous we weren't going to get that). I'm so honored to have read this series and I am soooooooooooo happy about the new development. I have questions about that. I'm going to make a list. But I definitely recommend this series. This author is dope and worth a peek or three - definitely one of my great finds in 2014.
So now I go through pirate withdrawal because getting over one of my favorites of 2015 is tough.
A copy provided for an honest review.
March 4, 2020
I loved the three main characters, they were very endearing even through their individual trials and tribulations. Each were damaged differently during their youths. However, each share a commonality, they were each abused. So I recommend it’s read from the beginning ( book 1 - 3 ), so they could be understood why they became who and what they are. Why their love works for them. P.S. I loved the Narrator’s voice ( Michael Ferraiuolo ) his reading was great.
January 11, 2016
I've held off reviewing this for a couple days to give it a fair shake. Y'see I binge watched all of Black Sails while reading this. I know it's not fair to compare the two but which is why I took some time to digest.
Black Sails is bursting at the seams with pirates being pirate-y. They are unscrupulous pillaging, marauding pirate-y pirates. And they are HOOOOTTTT!!!!!!!
Exhibit A:
Exhibit B:
When they're not stealing gold or backstabbing each other they are fucking. And they're not particularly picky about whom they are fucking. AND there is peen. AND!They're cunningly conniving bastards!
I confess Baby got me started on the pirates. All I really knew was they were morally ambiguous people and that appealed for a multitude of reasons, namely being that I am bad wrong. Ask anyone.
My point being that I was still circling the novice pirate block and what I've realized since is I like my pirates to swash their buckles and shiver me timbers.
Fated: Blood and Redemption was light on swashbuckle and heavy on angst and feels. And even some juicy eyes. I was a little faschizzled by this development. I cannot tell a lie. I understand why the story took this turn, but comparatively speaking it was kind of a let down.
Before anyone gets butt hurt this is why I held off on reviewing this a couple days and in hindsight, I did enjoy the conclusion of the trilogy. I just enjoyed the action packed last 40% the best.
If you like your pirates slightly more self-actualized and loquacious (save Tom who still cusses like a sailor) then Fated: Blood and Redemption should make you twirl like Julie Andrews on a sunny day.
Or like that. Whatevs. Mileage varies for us all.
What I liked best was the theme of holding on the the past and the toxic notion of revenge only serves to distract from your present and/or future happiness. The fact that all three of these men have suffered together and apart for the sake of this vision quest and have chosen each other to reach their ultimate HEA only enriched the experience. For me.
It was pretty kinkalicious too. Had many of the things I like and Tom seemingly played a larger role than either of the previous two. He alone pulls 3 stars but his blatant taunting of Saban, which is bad wrong btdubs, but still hot and part and parcel to why I ❤ him so bumped this sucker up to 4.
All told a very satisfying conclusion to a fantastic series and highly recommended to those who like kinky swashbuckling pirates who have some feels.
Black Sails is bursting at the seams with pirates being pirate-y. They are unscrupulous pillaging, marauding pirate-y pirates. And they are HOOOOTTTT!!!!!!!
Exhibit A:
Exhibit B:
When they're not stealing gold or backstabbing each other they are fucking. And they're not particularly picky about whom they are fucking. AND there is peen. AND!They're cunningly conniving bastards!
I confess Baby got me started on the pirates. All I really knew was they were morally ambiguous people and that appealed for a multitude of reasons, namely being that I am bad wrong. Ask anyone.
My point being that I was still circling the novice pirate block and what I've realized since is I like my pirates to swash their buckles and shiver me timbers.
Fated: Blood and Redemption was light on swashbuckle and heavy on angst and feels. And even some juicy eyes. I was a little faschizzled by this development. I cannot tell a lie. I understand why the story took this turn, but comparatively speaking it was kind of a let down.
Before anyone gets butt hurt this is why I held off on reviewing this a couple days and in hindsight, I did enjoy the conclusion of the trilogy. I just enjoyed the action packed last 40% the best.
If you like your pirates slightly more self-actualized and loquacious (save Tom who still cusses like a sailor) then Fated: Blood and Redemption should make you twirl like Julie Andrews on a sunny day.
Or like that. Whatevs. Mileage varies for us all.
What I liked best was the theme of holding on the the past and the toxic notion of revenge only serves to distract from your present and/or future happiness. The fact that all three of these men have suffered together and apart for the sake of this vision quest and have chosen each other to reach their ultimate HEA only enriched the experience. For me.
He was usually bound in ways that exposed him entirely to Baltsaros's desires and for some reason that always calmed him completely. His rebellious soul, the true pain he rarely let surface, the memories that burned like a poison in his heart-all of it fell away when Baltsaros stripped him of control. It was like losing the fight but winning the battle; it was defeat and love and courage and need... Tom felt himself relax into it.
It was pretty kinkalicious too. Had many of the things I like and Tom seemingly played a larger role than either of the previous two. He alone pulls 3 stars but his blatant taunting of Saban, which is bad wrong btdubs, but still hot and part and parcel to why I ❤ him so bumped this sucker up to 4.
All told a very satisfying conclusion to a fantastic series and highly recommended to those who like kinky swashbuckling pirates who have some feels.
December 22, 2015
Baal's Heart is definitely one of my favorite m/m series! Sexy pirates in dangerous situations having smoky hot sex - YES PLEASE!
Due to Baltsaros' madness Jon became captain of Baal's heart and has to take difficult decisions in order to bring the ship out of the dangers that their travel brought apon them. Fearing for Baltsaros' health, the relationship between all three men turns out to be difficult, but they aren't willing to give up what they had.
Fated: Blood and Redemption is an extremely entertaining read. The balance between romance and suspense was very well done. The pirates of Baal's Heart had to face lots of difficult sitations, Jon, Tom and Baltsaros were all going through a lot of pain and I just wans't able to put this book down.
Once again, Deckard's writing style pulled me right in. I love the way he is integration flashbacks and dreams into his tale and his world building is very interessting. Considering the fact, that Fated is a historical m/m romance about pirates, I wasn't always sure if all the words were chosen correctly in a historical perspective, but it didn't bother me at all.
Just like in the two parts before, the secondary characters were very interesting. I loved reading about old characters, but I really fell in love with Saban, one of the man they saved in the second part. The dynamics between Saba, Jon and Tom were so hot and I saw myself waiting for more. I'm so curious to read more about his story! I CAN'T WAIT.
This third part answeres a lot of questions. We learn about the reason for Baltsaros' madness, about his desire for vengance and about how the beginning of Tom's and Baltsaros' relationship. The character development felt credible and I would love to read more about them - luckily the author mentioned visiting them in the future! ^^
4 stars
Due to Baltsaros' madness Jon became captain of Baal's heart and has to take difficult decisions in order to bring the ship out of the dangers that their travel brought apon them. Fearing for Baltsaros' health, the relationship between all three men turns out to be difficult, but they aren't willing to give up what they had.
Fated: Blood and Redemption is an extremely entertaining read. The balance between romance and suspense was very well done. The pirates of Baal's Heart had to face lots of difficult sitations, Jon, Tom and Baltsaros were all going through a lot of pain and I just wans't able to put this book down.
Once again, Deckard's writing style pulled me right in. I love the way he is integration flashbacks and dreams into his tale and his world building is very interessting. Considering the fact, that Fated is a historical m/m romance about pirates, I wasn't always sure if all the words were chosen correctly in a historical perspective, but it didn't bother me at all.
Just like in the two parts before, the secondary characters were very interesting. I loved reading about old characters, but I really fell in love with Saban, one of the man they saved in the second part. The dynamics between Saba, Jon and Tom were so hot and I saw myself waiting for more. I'm so curious to read more about his story! I CAN'T WAIT.
This third part answeres a lot of questions. We learn about the reason for Baltsaros' madness, about his desire for vengance and about how the beginning of Tom's and Baltsaros' relationship. The character development felt credible and I would love to read more about them - luckily the author mentioned visiting them in the future! ^^
4 stars
Read
February 19, 2016A story about beginnings and ends, about illogical things that seem to make sense, about rational things that don't, about mistakes and their consequences, about trust and hope, about struggle and surrender, about madness that calls to madness...
The last book in the trilogy is dark, violent, tender, and full of heart.
Fate will find a way.
—Virgil
The last book in the trilogy is dark, violent, tender, and full of heart.
Fate will find a way.
—Virgil
October 11, 2017
Oh heck yeah! Fated: Blood and Redemption is everything I was hoping for and more in the final installment of the Baal’s Heart series. Thank you Bey Deckard, for the hottest, dirtiest pirates, for the intrigue and deception, the swashbuckling adventure, and all the love and hot kinky sex, as only you can write it!.
The climactic conclusion to the Baal’s Heart trilogy is a twisted, turning ride.
As with all of Deckard’s stories I am never sure which way things will go, and this one did not disappoint.
Fated: Blood and Redemption, the third book in the Baal’s Heart series by Bey Deckard, continues the journey and brings some closure to issues facing the triad of Jon, Tom, and Captain Baltsaros. Aspects of the men’s personalities are examined in greater detail and this book brings to light a few new facets of each character’s psyche, which are extremely intriguing.
Fated is a must read for fans of this series and I promise it is a heart stopping thrill from cover to cover!
If you haven’t yet ventured into this series you are going to want to catch it from the beginning in order to appreciate the true world of Baal’s Heart.
A longtime fan of Michael Ferraiuolo, I was dying to hear what he could do with a story by Bey Deckard. In the end I waited to read Fated till it was released on audio and I’m incredibly thankful I was able to experience it through the magic of Michael Ferraiuolo’s lyrical, expressive voice.
Ferraiuolo has completely gotten into the heads and hearts of these guys:
He nails Jon’s softness, his subtle domination, and his growing maturity. Tom’s gruff but incredibly tender actions and his irrepressible need to give and receive love, come across loud and clear. And the way Ferraiuolo imbues Baltsaros’ voice with growing terror as he grapples with the variety of ways his mind deceives him actually gave me chills.
An intriguing character from the start, Baltsaros’ actions run the gamut possible of the human psyche.
The amazing life this man has led, what propels him to act and react, and how he interacts with others - well let me just say that Bey Deckard does these completely dark, messed up characters better than any author I’ve ever read. He clearly had a blast with this one!
Jon has grown tremendously through this series. Filling in as captain for the Heart, Jon has come a long way from the timid stable boy Baltsaros sought out and kidnapped at the start of Caged. Plagued by visions, dreams, and images planted by a fortune telling old hag, poor Jon is overwhelmed and preoccupied and finds the Captain’s boots are hard ones to fill indeed.
I’ve had a mad crush on Tom since the start of this series, and I was thrilled with how much of Fated really is Tom’s book. We get the story of how Baltsaros comes to seek Tom out, information about his initial abduction, and details of his enslavement. There is the start to finding some closure with Abetha. And best of all, inspired by his lust and the desire to throw a wrench into his mother’s marriage, the flashback to the story of how Tom seduces Baltsaros! Blimey, that is a scene I’ll never forget. Tom’s inner confidence is so charming, and the growing realization of his needs and the depths of his desires - what a thrill to see him work through it all. Best of all, the flashback to the first time Baltsaros binds him and he willingly submits…hell he begs for it. Hottest scene in the book.
Between all the flashback scenes and the opportunities the guys have to be just couples, Baal’s Heart III really explores the intimacies and contrasts between the relationships.
There is so much beauty in this book, and the desperate love the men have for each other is reiterated throughout the story.
While Mr. Deckard has stated Fated: Blood and Redemption is the final installment of the trilogy, the ending he thoughtfully provides allows the possibility of many more stories in the future (hint, hint). Thankfully book 3.5 awaits and, lucky me, it is also narrated by Michael Ferraiuolo.
The climactic conclusion to the Baal’s Heart trilogy is a twisted, turning ride.
As with all of Deckard’s stories I am never sure which way things will go, and this one did not disappoint.
Fated: Blood and Redemption, the third book in the Baal’s Heart series by Bey Deckard, continues the journey and brings some closure to issues facing the triad of Jon, Tom, and Captain Baltsaros. Aspects of the men’s personalities are examined in greater detail and this book brings to light a few new facets of each character’s psyche, which are extremely intriguing.
Fated is a must read for fans of this series and I promise it is a heart stopping thrill from cover to cover!
If you haven’t yet ventured into this series you are going to want to catch it from the beginning in order to appreciate the true world of Baal’s Heart.
A longtime fan of Michael Ferraiuolo, I was dying to hear what he could do with a story by Bey Deckard. In the end I waited to read Fated till it was released on audio and I’m incredibly thankful I was able to experience it through the magic of Michael Ferraiuolo’s lyrical, expressive voice.
Ferraiuolo has completely gotten into the heads and hearts of these guys:
He nails Jon’s softness, his subtle domination, and his growing maturity. Tom’s gruff but incredibly tender actions and his irrepressible need to give and receive love, come across loud and clear. And the way Ferraiuolo imbues Baltsaros’ voice with growing terror as he grapples with the variety of ways his mind deceives him actually gave me chills.
An intriguing character from the start, Baltsaros’ actions run the gamut possible of the human psyche.
The amazing life this man has led, what propels him to act and react, and how he interacts with others - well let me just say that Bey Deckard does these completely dark, messed up characters better than any author I’ve ever read. He clearly had a blast with this one!
Jon has grown tremendously through this series. Filling in as captain for the Heart, Jon has come a long way from the timid stable boy Baltsaros sought out and kidnapped at the start of Caged. Plagued by visions, dreams, and images planted by a fortune telling old hag, poor Jon is overwhelmed and preoccupied and finds the Captain’s boots are hard ones to fill indeed.
I’ve had a mad crush on Tom since the start of this series, and I was thrilled with how much of Fated really is Tom’s book. We get the story of how Baltsaros comes to seek Tom out, information about his initial abduction, and details of his enslavement. There is the start to finding some closure with Abetha. And best of all, inspired by his lust and the desire to throw a wrench into his mother’s marriage, the flashback to the story of how Tom seduces Baltsaros! Blimey, that is a scene I’ll never forget. Tom’s inner confidence is so charming, and the growing realization of his needs and the depths of his desires - what a thrill to see him work through it all. Best of all, the flashback to the first time Baltsaros binds him and he willingly submits…hell he begs for it. Hottest scene in the book.
Between all the flashback scenes and the opportunities the guys have to be just couples, Baal’s Heart III really explores the intimacies and contrasts between the relationships.
There is so much beauty in this book, and the desperate love the men have for each other is reiterated throughout the story.
While Mr. Deckard has stated Fated: Blood and Redemption is the final installment of the trilogy, the ending he thoughtfully provides allows the possibility of many more stories in the future (hint, hint). Thankfully book 3.5 awaits and, lucky me, it is also narrated by Michael Ferraiuolo.
August 11, 2016
Fascinating story, complex characters, intense action, sweet and kinky love...this story had it all. My interest was kept the whole way through and I dreaded reaching the end.
Pirate life is not for the faint-hearted, though, and I cringed a few times while reading. Consequences of past mistakes led to unfortunate situations and although I understood the decisions that were made, I hated that any of it happened in the first place.
However, the dark times did move the story forward, and provided opportunities for reflection and growth. They were also nicely balanced by the rest of this intriguing story, especially the sweet loving and steamy times. Scenes that made me smile. And squirm. Omg...the neediness in Tom after days of chastity *fans self* and rope play! *sigh*
Tom was beautiful in his submission.
There were crazy times, but through everything that happened, there was awesome relationship development between all three MCs. Support, patient understanding, and determination kept things on track.
Hah! Patience...that was something I needed while reading this story. I had so many questions, and I often had to wait for the answers. No continuity issues, just a slow reveal of information, sometimes in the form of flashbacks. At times, those flashbacks were abrupt and caused some confusion, but the history revealed added so much to the story. I loved getting that background, it helped me understand the characters that much more, and gave their relationships even more layers of complexity.
I couldn't help but think this would make an amazing movie. An epic pirate adventure and love story, focusing on the redemption of an anti-hero pirate captain.
Side note:
So excited for Saban's story!!!
Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Previously reviewed on
Pirate life is not for the faint-hearted, though, and I cringed a few times while reading. Consequences of past mistakes led to unfortunate situations and although I understood the decisions that were made, I hated that any of it happened in the first place.
However, the dark times did move the story forward, and provided opportunities for reflection and growth. They were also nicely balanced by the rest of this intriguing story, especially the sweet loving and steamy times. Scenes that made me smile. And squirm. Omg...the neediness in Tom after days of chastity *fans self* and rope play! *sigh*
Tom was beautiful in his submission.
There were crazy times, but through everything that happened, there was awesome relationship development between all three MCs. Support, patient understanding, and determination kept things on track.
Hah! Patience...that was something I needed while reading this story. I had so many questions, and I often had to wait for the answers. No continuity issues, just a slow reveal of information, sometimes in the form of flashbacks. At times, those flashbacks were abrupt and caused some confusion, but the history revealed added so much to the story. I loved getting that background, it helped me understand the characters that much more, and gave their relationships even more layers of complexity.
I couldn't help but think this would make an amazing movie. An epic pirate adventure and love story, focusing on the redemption of an anti-hero pirate captain.
Side note:
So excited for Saban's story!!!
Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Previously reviewed on
March 20, 2016
★★★★★ 1-3
I'm going to do one review for all three books because I read them all this week and couldn't put them down to do an individual review but they were 5 ★★★★★ for me as a whole.
From the first book, when Jon watches the pirate ship sail into the harbor, his adventure and new life begins. Handsome pirate, Baltsaros lives with secrets and lies and Jon affects him like no other. Strong, damaged Tom sees Jon alternately as an usurper and is attracted to him.
In between the sexy times, each book is a a grand, suspenseful adventure that builds towards a truly, loving menage relationship with a lot of heartache along the way as all great romances should have.
To show you all just how much I love this series and my faith in a rereadable series, I originally borrowed 1-2 (Thank you, Mercedes!) have bought the series so I can pay it forward by someone else getting the opportunity to borrow and fall in love with our dashing pirates.
I'm going to do one review for all three books because I read them all this week and couldn't put them down to do an individual review but they were 5 ★★★★★ for me as a whole.
From the first book, when Jon watches the pirate ship sail into the harbor, his adventure and new life begins. Handsome pirate, Baltsaros lives with secrets and lies and Jon affects him like no other. Strong, damaged Tom sees Jon alternately as an usurper and is attracted to him.
In between the sexy times, each book is a a grand, suspenseful adventure that builds towards a truly, loving menage relationship with a lot of heartache along the way as all great romances should have.
To show you all just how much I love this series and my faith in a rereadable series, I originally borrowed 1-2 (Thank you, Mercedes!) have bought the series so I can pay it forward by someone else getting the opportunity to borrow and fall in love with our dashing pirates.
January 7, 2016
I was super excited to dig into this story but very sad knowing it was the final from this trio. Fated alternates between past and present times, continuing the plot while closing some gaps. This installment, like the ones before it, is almost impossible to categorize. The main characters are pirates. It feels sort of historical fantasy; yet, with some of the gadgets like the lights, it almost has hints of steampunk. The mysticism, eroticism and BDSM-lite are still present as well. Adventure and action are major themes. Naturally, it has darkish elements and obviously the true and imperfect love between three men. ♂♂♂
We ended with Baltsaros sick in Sacrificed. It's a peculiar illness affecting body and especially mind. He's basically nutso. Of course Jon and Tom are on a mission to save him, but his being somewhat out of commission, does allow for growth between Tom and Jon. Also the previously untold beginning between Tom and Baltsaros is filled in. I didn't even realize how badly I wanted their history until I was reading it. As if I could love Tom anymore, seeing how playful and strong he is after all he's endured in life gave me a case of the feels. ♡
Fated has lots of characters besides the three leads. There are several men, and one thing I've noticed in this author's writing is that he's great with female characters too. It's not just in the world of M/M fiction that novels are sometimes lacking good female roles. So it's kind of extra special since this is a gay story to have likable feminine personalities. Instead of boring and whiny, they're fun and bold.
It wouldn't be a Baal's Heart tale without loads of conflict, warfare and pain. The crew has to battle the elements, each other's attitudes, inner demons, sins from their pasts and plenty of unfriendlies. ☠
I knew given the previous books that the sex would be hot, but this author paints a masterpiece with his words. Each sex scene carries it's own unique lustiness. My reading was extremely intense—like, I was so wound up, I had to take a break during one scene.
The ending was perfect. I don't want to discuss, but I just want to say that anything different would not have fit.
My final conclusion is that I want a spot on Baal's Heart. I don't actually want to do any manual labor or endure any hardships—I just want to hang out in the captain's quarters and watch the show. ;)
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
September 28, 2017
Reread - September 2017 - Audiobook review - I enjoyed this much more the second time round, you know, being prepared for what happened at the end? I also completely agree with my original thoughts, this book is probably one of the lighter ones, despite the ending. This series has definitely become my favourite audiobook series ever!!!!!. Michael Ferraiuolo is a master of voices and I wanted to drown in Baltsaros, Tom and Jon!
Review
Holy shit, just let me recover for a moment... That ending was intense, don't worry there's enough of a HEA, but holy shit I didn't see that coming.
ok... moving on...
It was nice seeing them all together again and I loved seeing into the past for both Tom and Baltsaros, the emotions are no less intense than the first two books and there was still a level of uncertainty in the relationship.
There were lots of fun and sexy moments, in fact the majority of the book felt rather light-hearted, especially Tom and Jon's relationship once Baltsaros was back in the picture.
A special shout out to DP :D
As an ending for these three, It rounded up all their individual stories nicely and we were left feeling like, hopefully the worst is behind them.
Review
Holy shit, just let me recover for a moment... That ending was intense, don't worry there's enough of a HEA, but holy shit I didn't see that coming.
ok... moving on...
It was nice seeing them all together again and I loved seeing into the past for both Tom and Baltsaros, the emotions are no less intense than the first two books and there was still a level of uncertainty in the relationship.
There were lots of fun and sexy moments, in fact the majority of the book felt rather light-hearted, especially Tom and Jon's relationship once Baltsaros was back in the picture.
A special shout out to DP :D
As an ending for these three, It rounded up all their individual stories nicely and we were left feeling like, hopefully the worst is behind them.
July 20, 2020
Fated is when we finally get a full incite into the elusive mind of the Captain.
Joining him on his journey to be whole.
Vengeance, redemption, submission.
I have to say it was seriously exhilarating to get inside his mind and to finally understand why he does what he does and how he truly feels about Jon and Tom.
"My past is unimportant. It is what the future holds for me that will be my salvation—and that is the love of two broken creatures that I cherish more than life itself.
HFN ? But not quite, it's like this constant imbalance, always two whole andone broken one more broken then usual.
Baal's Heart # 3.5, is like an epilogue to this epic journey and a must read to really feel complete. Fated doesn't quite feel like an ending.
Joining him on his journey to be whole.
Vengeance, redemption, submission.
I have to say it was seriously exhilarating to get inside his mind and to finally understand why he does what he does and how he truly feels about Jon and Tom.
"My past is unimportant. It is what the future holds for me that will be my salvation—and that is the love of two broken creatures that I cherish more than life itself.
HFN ? But not quite, it's like this constant imbalance, always two whole and
Baal's Heart # 3.5, is like an epilogue to this epic journey and a must read to really feel complete. Fated doesn't quite feel like an ending.
February 19, 2020
4.5 Stars
Review:
This was the final full book in the series, but I didn’t want it to be! I came to love these characters so much over the course of this series. I started thinking they were terrible but interesting and ended wanting to give them all hugs and not even caring about the terrible things they’d done in the past. They grew and changed over the story, not drastically, and in some cases maybe not for the better, but in some ways it was definitely for the better, and all of it was believable and realistic. I also really felt for Tom and Baltsaros as I got to know them better and understand their trauma and why they were the way they were. Not that that excuses something like cold-blooded murder, but, you know, it’s fiction. Jon is the one who maybe didn’t grow in all ways for the better, but he hardened some, as he had to if he was going to make it on a pirate crew, and he found some buried strength and surety in himself, I think.
Then there was their relationship. The further I got into this series, the more I could see just how much these three men fit together, how right they were for each other. No, I still can’t sit here and say their relationship was always perfect and healthy, but neither Baltsaros nor Tom would’ve had a healthy relationship with anyone. It took all three of them being together for them to find themselves and heal their own emotional wounds and bridge the emotional gaps between each other and for things to finally be right. And their relationship did get a lot healthier by the end. Still very BDSM, but in a non-abusive way that they were all extremely happy with, including openness and tenderness and trust rather than the jealousy and pain they started with. And I could feel more and more just how much they all cared for each other and needed each other. Seriously, these three started out with one of the most unhealthy relationships I’ve ever read about and ended with one of the most adorable. Also, in the first book, I couldn’t even keep a straight face and thought it was so weird every time Tom called Baltsaros “da,” but I squealed in cuteness and thought it was the sweetest term of endearment ever when he used it in the final scene of this book.
There was also more pirating as the series went on! This one even had a sea battle with cannons.
I will say though that the story seemed a bit darker and less happy in this one. Baltsaros’s mental struggles. Jon and Tom being separated from Baltsaros for a little while. Some relationship issues. And then the ending wasn’t an unhappy one, but it could’ve been happier, although I can appreciate the author giving things the weight they deserved instead of brushing them off. (Fortunately, the short story Careened that takes place after this book fixes the unhappiness that was still lingering.)
And of course I have to yet again mention the AMAZING narration by Michael Ferraiuolo. Listen, I almost never recommend specifically the audiobook, but I’m telling you, this narrator is incredible and brings this story to life with emotion and voices and accents and a performance in a way that even my imagination could not.
Overall, I loved this series, I loved these terrible/lovable pirates, I loved their angsty relationship, and I’m so glad I decided to give it a try!
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1 and 2 in Bey Deckard's Baal's Heart series. Anyone who likes pirates, complicated polyamorous relationships, BDSM, and characters who are terrible but complex and interesting and who you can't help but love as the series goes on.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
---------------------
Initial Thoughts:
I don't want the series to be over 😭
Review:
This was the final full book in the series, but I didn’t want it to be! I came to love these characters so much over the course of this series. I started thinking they were terrible but interesting and ended wanting to give them all hugs and not even caring about the terrible things they’d done in the past. They grew and changed over the story, not drastically, and in some cases maybe not for the better, but in some ways it was definitely for the better, and all of it was believable and realistic. I also really felt for Tom and Baltsaros as I got to know them better and understand their trauma and why they were the way they were. Not that that excuses something like cold-blooded murder, but, you know, it’s fiction. Jon is the one who maybe didn’t grow in all ways for the better, but he hardened some, as he had to if he was going to make it on a pirate crew, and he found some buried strength and surety in himself, I think.
Then there was their relationship. The further I got into this series, the more I could see just how much these three men fit together, how right they were for each other. No, I still can’t sit here and say their relationship was always perfect and healthy, but neither Baltsaros nor Tom would’ve had a healthy relationship with anyone. It took all three of them being together for them to find themselves and heal their own emotional wounds and bridge the emotional gaps between each other and for things to finally be right. And their relationship did get a lot healthier by the end. Still very BDSM, but in a non-abusive way that they were all extremely happy with, including openness and tenderness and trust rather than the jealousy and pain they started with. And I could feel more and more just how much they all cared for each other and needed each other. Seriously, these three started out with one of the most unhealthy relationships I’ve ever read about and ended with one of the most adorable. Also, in the first book, I couldn’t even keep a straight face and thought it was so weird every time Tom called Baltsaros “da,” but I squealed in cuteness and thought it was the sweetest term of endearment ever when he used it in the final scene of this book.
There was also more pirating as the series went on! This one even had a sea battle with cannons.
I will say though that the story seemed a bit darker and less happy in this one. Baltsaros’s mental struggles. Jon and Tom being separated from Baltsaros for a little while. Some relationship issues. And then the ending wasn’t an unhappy one, but it could’ve been happier, although I can appreciate the author giving things the weight they deserved instead of brushing them off. (Fortunately, the short story Careened that takes place after this book fixes the unhappiness that was still lingering.)
And of course I have to yet again mention the AMAZING narration by Michael Ferraiuolo. Listen, I almost never recommend specifically the audiobook, but I’m telling you, this narrator is incredible and brings this story to life with emotion and voices and accents and a performance in a way that even my imagination could not.
Overall, I loved this series, I loved these terrible/lovable pirates, I loved their angsty relationship, and I’m so glad I decided to give it a try!
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1 and 2 in Bey Deckard's Baal's Heart series. Anyone who likes pirates, complicated polyamorous relationships, BDSM, and characters who are terrible but complex and interesting and who you can't help but love as the series goes on.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
---------------------
Initial Thoughts:
I don't want the series to be over 😭
April 11, 2015
It's all the stars from me on this one. I was so excited to review this ARC, I even put on my #TeamTom T-shirt. I could so have been setting myself up for disappointment, I'm glad to say I enjoyed every word!
We left book two with a broken Baltsaros, Jon acting as Captain and Tom trying to hold it all together. Though there is plenty of action in this story, lots of piratey ploys, I think this really concentrates on the emotional connection between the three MC's.
Baltsaros believes he is inherently bad, that he is bad to be around and that it is not good for Jon, especially, to be around him. He doesn't know why or what is wrong with him, but the madness that he is suffering means he is a danger to everyone, particularly Jon. Where does this leave Tom? Well, frankly, jealous. Even he knows it's crazy, but to his mind Baltsaros feels so deeply for Jon that he is willing to kill him to save him. And that is pretty much the basis of this story. Unravelling, not just Baltsaros' madness and what made him that way, but the true feelings these three have for each other.
I mean it's no secret the three of them are scorching in bed. Oh my god are they scorching. Tom will always have my heart, and how he submits in their sex play is so damn hot. The wildest, fiercest person on the ship and he lets it all go to be dominated sometimes. I can't tell you how hot the sex scenes are in this book - ovary exploding hot is the best I can do. I think the fact that we are seeing the emotional connection forging more - so it is both at it's weakest and it's strongest point, just adds to it.
I like that we learn more about the captain's past, and also Tom's past in this book. It helps bring a better understanding of what makes them tick. The pain and threat of loss is ever present throughout the story and this just helps, both the MC's and the reader, understand all their tics a little more.
The story flits back and forth between present and past, revealing information as necessary. It's a difficult writing choice to pull off, but I think Bey Deckard does it really well. Everything feeds into the story, adding to it, making actions and reactions understandable. It is a beautiful way of writing.
I believe this is the last in the Baal's Heart series - however I also believe there is to be more set in this world. I hope so. I also hope HOPE hope, that we get to see Tom, Baltsaros and Jon again. These characters are going to be hard to let go.
Review previously at BMBR.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
"There was still a long road to recovery ahead, but he felt something he hadn't felt in a long time: hope."
We left book two with a broken Baltsaros, Jon acting as Captain and Tom trying to hold it all together. Though there is plenty of action in this story, lots of piratey ploys, I think this really concentrates on the emotional connection between the three MC's.
Baltsaros believes he is inherently bad, that he is bad to be around and that it is not good for Jon, especially, to be around him. He doesn't know why or what is wrong with him, but the madness that he is suffering means he is a danger to everyone, particularly Jon. Where does this leave Tom? Well, frankly, jealous. Even he knows it's crazy, but to his mind Baltsaros feels so deeply for Jon that he is willing to kill him to save him. And that is pretty much the basis of this story. Unravelling, not just Baltsaros' madness and what made him that way, but the true feelings these three have for each other.
""Yeah, loving you is a real godsdamn hazard," Jon said, grinning."
I mean it's no secret the three of them are scorching in bed. Oh my god are they scorching. Tom will always have my heart, and how he submits in their sex play is so damn hot. The wildest, fiercest person on the ship and he lets it all go to be dominated sometimes. I can't tell you how hot the sex scenes are in this book - ovary exploding hot is the best I can do. I think the fact that we are seeing the emotional connection forging more - so it is both at it's weakest and it's strongest point, just adds to it.
I like that we learn more about the captain's past, and also Tom's past in this book. It helps bring a better understanding of what makes them tick. The pain and threat of loss is ever present throughout the story and this just helps, both the MC's and the reader, understand all their tics a little more.
The story flits back and forth between present and past, revealing information as necessary. It's a difficult writing choice to pull off, but I think Bey Deckard does it really well. Everything feeds into the story, adding to it, making actions and reactions understandable. It is a beautiful way of writing.
I believe this is the last in the Baal's Heart series - however I also believe there is to be more set in this world. I hope so. I also hope HOPE hope, that we get to see Tom, Baltsaros and Jon again. These characters are going to be hard to let go.
Review previously at BMBR.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2015
A review by The Blogger Girls.
Well, Mr. Deckard has managed to do it again with this third installment of the Baal’s Heart adventure. This was every bit as good, if not better in some ways, than the first two. The writing is unbelievably smooth, and the scenes just flow almost seamlessly from one to the next. It actually feels as though you are along for the ride with these guys, and what a ride it is.
This picks up where the previous one left off with the men heading back to Madierus for help in curing the Captain. Jon is the captain now, and it’s taking some adjustments on everyone’s part, including him, though I say he’s stepping up to the plate quite nicely. Of course, he has the every fabulous Tom by his side to help him along. Tom, what a breath of fresh air it is to hear him again. I actually like that they are still kind of struggling with their threesome given the circumstances they’ve encountered. Yet, they are all still on the same page of wanting to make it work. They face many obstacles, question things and each other, but still their desire and love for each other shines through. Even Captain B shows us some of his more emotional caring side every now and then.
One of the things I don’t generally enjoy are flashbacks…unless they are done right, as they most definitely are here. Through them, we gain insight on how things came to pass, learn more intimate details about the characters and how events unfolded, and they all just added a lot of color to this already colorful story. Again, everything flowed very smoothly. It was like doing a dance, taking a few steps forward, then one step back to fill in some details, then a few more steps forward. Very well done.
Another thing I absolutely loved were the chapter titles and chosen quotes at the beginning of the various chapters. Honestly, I often don’t read these, but I looked forward to and loved every one, finding they each fit perfectly with the corresponding chapter.
This story is truly an adventure through an amazing world created with the help of tantalizing words, beautiful imagery, and is just one heck of a good story. I happily savored every word and was not ready for their story to end. Thankfully, it seems Mr. Deckard isn’t quite ready either and has given us a nice teaser at the end of more to come in this fabulous world. This was a perfect end to one of my all-time favorite fantasy series.
Read
August 16, 2017Now available in audiobook -> http://geni.us/FatedAudio
September 5, 2017
Rather abrupt conclusion to the piratical threesome
I enjoyed this one but it felt like it ended rather abruptly with a conclusion that seemed to be missing bits.
This third book is also much more of the adventuring and less of the relationship elements between the three men as they try to recover the Captain's mind and memories.
The villain of the piece also seemed to appear from nowhere and there was odd conflict brought in to create tension between the three men.
Still, it was a riotous ride on the high seas and filled with loads of epic moments.
I enjoyed this one but it felt like it ended rather abruptly with a conclusion that seemed to be missing bits.
This third book is also much more of the adventuring and less of the relationship elements between the three men as they try to recover the Captain's mind and memories.
The villain of the piece also seemed to appear from nowhere and there was odd conflict brought in to create tension between the three men.
Still, it was a riotous ride on the high seas and filled with loads of epic moments.
April 13, 2015
So freaking sad it's over!
I loved this series! The best MMM Pirate Fantasy, don't miss out!
I loved this series! The best MMM Pirate Fantasy, don't miss out!
October 13, 2017
Wish I could give this whole series ten stars
So descriptive
Felt like I was coming home and sailing with the boys and Baltsaros
Ahhh Saban!! You are one intriguing guy... Can't wait to learn more about you
Loved how strong Jon is becoming and loved the tenderness between Tom and Baltsaros
I hope this isn't the end for these guys
One of my favorite thing to read about is pirates and the wonderful sense of adventure they embody
***first read May 2015*** Review to come for audio edition
I am so happy to be back with three of my favorite guys!
Fated: Blood and Redemption, by Bey Deckard, is book three in his Baal’s Heart trilogy. These little gems are best read in order and I assure you if you do you will not be disappointed.
As I’ve mentioned in my previous reviews of Caged: Love and Treachery on the High Seas and Sacrificed: Heart Beyond the Spires, the first two books in the series, these stories are simply brilliant and author Bey Deckard does it yet again.
He manages to hold you hostage with his words and the widely talented Michael Ferraiuolo expertly translates that brilliance with his voice.
Fated: Blood and Redemption begins with a memory from young Tom’s days as a slave. He has killed yet another master and he’s been sorely punished for it. If you have read the first two books I dare you to say a bad word about my “Tomcat”. Tom is such a resilient young man and has overcome so many hardships. I have thoroughly enjoyed his evolution throughout this series. He’s become someone the Captain and Jon can count on and has truly matured.
Tom will always remain my favorite character in this series. He is rough and gruff and he’s got that cocksure attitude that makes you either want to smack him or kiss him. Tom has really come a long way in terms of the way he thinks and acts. His relationship with Jon has flourished and he now can readily say the words “‘I love you’”. He is also fiercely protective of the Captain, whom he calls “Da”. He is Baltsaros’ champion even when he’s mad at him. I love Tom’s loyalty. It wasn’t always easy for Tom to submit and the many flashbacks and scenes in Fated really drive home how deeply scarred Tom was while under the hand of slavery. Rest assured this is not a case of ‘magic penis’ and the reader/listener really sees the progression of Tom and the Captain’s relationship.
Jon has grown as well throughout the series, maturing and coming into his own. He’s still the same Jon in that he over thinks and analyzes things, qualities Tom just chuckles about, and he still has powerful dreams of trying to piece together a fortune he was told of by an old lady.
Captain Baltsaros is slowly trying to piece his mind back together and throughout the tale we see flashbacks from his point of view. The memories provide the audience with a view into his mind and possible origins of his bloodlust. He recounts a story from his childhood that left me breathless.
One of the things I enjoy most about the Baal’s Heart series is the evolution of all the men within the triad and outside of it.
Each man truly compliments the other and it is a thing of beauty to see how they all come together. Although that’s not to say the men have an easy time of it but Bey Deckard expertly navigates all of their strengths and weaknesses.
The inner workings of their triad has come under some strain: There are misunderstandings and hurt feelings but underneath it all there is the love that each man feels for the other.
In this third book we see young Jon take the role as Captain of Baal’s Heart. Captain Baltsaros is still recovering from the various tortures at the hand of the evil Emperor in book two. His mind is still in shambles and he alternates between quiet and madness. Their plan is to head home to Madierus and have Abetha help “cure” their Captain.
Unfortunately the return home for the men isn’t the smoothest of sailings and problems and situations arise. Jon is stressed with the role of Captain on his head and Tom is right by his side to help while Baltsaros is “safely” ensconced in the cage in their bedroom. The Captain’s mental state is a cause for concern for both Tom and Jon and they deal with the stress in different ways.
Fated focuses on the here and now but we also get glimpses into the Captain’s past as well as Tom’s and even young Jon. We see how Baltsaros and Tom first met and we get to see how their relationship came to be.
What I love about Bey Deckard’s writing is that he firmly places the reader/listener right in the thick of the action, and of course the more quiet times as well.
Throughout the narration I felt as if I were a passenger into all of their inner thoughts and dreams.
Michael Ferraiuolo is just simply amazing. I know I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again, with just his voice he truly brings this story to life. He breathes life into each character and simply nails all of the accents and tones. I think the most important thing in being a narrator is emotion and Michael Ferraiuolo’s voice is magic as he portrays the emotions of each character magnificently.
As usual the supporting characters are amazing and Mr. Ferraiuolo does each one so brilliantly. Again Michael is each character but truly shines with the way he tells the story.
Mr. Deckard writes an amazing tale and Michael is along for the ride brilliantly bringing these men and their tale to life.
In the famous words of Oliver Twist, “‘Please Sir, I want some more!’”, this is how I feel about a Bey Deckard story. And if Michael Ferraiuolo is narrating, sign me up!! Fated: Blood and Redemption definitely ends on a HFN and I just know there’s much more to this tale. In fact, I believe the ex-slave from the Emperor’s palace, Saban, has a story to tell, especially because of his ‘friendship’ with Tom. Hint, hint!
So descriptive
Felt like I was coming home and sailing with the boys and Baltsaros
Ahhh Saban!! You are one intriguing guy... Can't wait to learn more about you
Loved how strong Jon is becoming and loved the tenderness between Tom and Baltsaros
I hope this isn't the end for these guys
One of my favorite thing to read about is pirates and the wonderful sense of adventure they embody
***first read May 2015*** Review to come for audio edition
I am so happy to be back with three of my favorite guys!
Fated: Blood and Redemption, by Bey Deckard, is book three in his Baal’s Heart trilogy. These little gems are best read in order and I assure you if you do you will not be disappointed.
As I’ve mentioned in my previous reviews of Caged: Love and Treachery on the High Seas and Sacrificed: Heart Beyond the Spires, the first two books in the series, these stories are simply brilliant and author Bey Deckard does it yet again.
He manages to hold you hostage with his words and the widely talented Michael Ferraiuolo expertly translates that brilliance with his voice.
Fated: Blood and Redemption begins with a memory from young Tom’s days as a slave. He has killed yet another master and he’s been sorely punished for it. If you have read the first two books I dare you to say a bad word about my “Tomcat”. Tom is such a resilient young man and has overcome so many hardships. I have thoroughly enjoyed his evolution throughout this series. He’s become someone the Captain and Jon can count on and has truly matured.
Tom will always remain my favorite character in this series. He is rough and gruff and he’s got that cocksure attitude that makes you either want to smack him or kiss him. Tom has really come a long way in terms of the way he thinks and acts. His relationship with Jon has flourished and he now can readily say the words “‘I love you’”. He is also fiercely protective of the Captain, whom he calls “Da”. He is Baltsaros’ champion even when he’s mad at him. I love Tom’s loyalty. It wasn’t always easy for Tom to submit and the many flashbacks and scenes in Fated really drive home how deeply scarred Tom was while under the hand of slavery. Rest assured this is not a case of ‘magic penis’ and the reader/listener really sees the progression of Tom and the Captain’s relationship.
Jon has grown as well throughout the series, maturing and coming into his own. He’s still the same Jon in that he over thinks and analyzes things, qualities Tom just chuckles about, and he still has powerful dreams of trying to piece together a fortune he was told of by an old lady.
Captain Baltsaros is slowly trying to piece his mind back together and throughout the tale we see flashbacks from his point of view. The memories provide the audience with a view into his mind and possible origins of his bloodlust. He recounts a story from his childhood that left me breathless.
One of the things I enjoy most about the Baal’s Heart series is the evolution of all the men within the triad and outside of it.
Each man truly compliments the other and it is a thing of beauty to see how they all come together. Although that’s not to say the men have an easy time of it but Bey Deckard expertly navigates all of their strengths and weaknesses.
The inner workings of their triad has come under some strain: There are misunderstandings and hurt feelings but underneath it all there is the love that each man feels for the other.
In this third book we see young Jon take the role as Captain of Baal’s Heart. Captain Baltsaros is still recovering from the various tortures at the hand of the evil Emperor in book two. His mind is still in shambles and he alternates between quiet and madness. Their plan is to head home to Madierus and have Abetha help “cure” their Captain.
Unfortunately the return home for the men isn’t the smoothest of sailings and problems and situations arise. Jon is stressed with the role of Captain on his head and Tom is right by his side to help while Baltsaros is “safely” ensconced in the cage in their bedroom. The Captain’s mental state is a cause for concern for both Tom and Jon and they deal with the stress in different ways.
Fated focuses on the here and now but we also get glimpses into the Captain’s past as well as Tom’s and even young Jon. We see how Baltsaros and Tom first met and we get to see how their relationship came to be.
What I love about Bey Deckard’s writing is that he firmly places the reader/listener right in the thick of the action, and of course the more quiet times as well.
Throughout the narration I felt as if I were a passenger into all of their inner thoughts and dreams.
Michael Ferraiuolo is just simply amazing. I know I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again, with just his voice he truly brings this story to life. He breathes life into each character and simply nails all of the accents and tones. I think the most important thing in being a narrator is emotion and Michael Ferraiuolo’s voice is magic as he portrays the emotions of each character magnificently.
As usual the supporting characters are amazing and Mr. Ferraiuolo does each one so brilliantly. Again Michael is each character but truly shines with the way he tells the story.
Mr. Deckard writes an amazing tale and Michael is along for the ride brilliantly bringing these men and their tale to life.
In the famous words of Oliver Twist, “‘Please Sir, I want some more!’”, this is how I feel about a Bey Deckard story. And if Michael Ferraiuolo is narrating, sign me up!! Fated: Blood and Redemption definitely ends on a HFN and I just know there’s much more to this tale. In fact, I believe the ex-slave from the Emperor’s palace, Saban, has a story to tell, especially because of his ‘friendship’ with Tom. Hint, hint!
April 26, 2015
I kinda hated this book. Knowing it is the end of the series made me dilly dally and avoid progress in the reading. I don't want it to be done! I love this triad of Jon, Tom, and Baltsaros. I'm going to miss them. That said, this book kind of felt like the end.
What a great and fitting end to this series. Fated has a lot of heart. It is filled with self reflection, growth of character, and in many ways growing up. It's a time for cracking open ill healed wounds and resetting them correctly for all characters. A few ship battles, a journey to redemption, and some very sexy kink with our trio, and you have Fated
I love it for being so thoughtful. I hate it for being over.
What a great and fitting end to this series. Fated has a lot of heart. It is filled with self reflection, growth of character, and in many ways growing up. It's a time for cracking open ill healed wounds and resetting them correctly for all characters. A few ship battles, a journey to redemption, and some very sexy kink with our trio, and you have Fated
I love it for being so thoughtful. I hate it for being over.
March 13, 2015
oof. I cannot even. exceptional.
April 27, 2015
Holy shitcake, cock and bloody fuckin' balls, this was remarkable!
Mr. Deckard, your mind is a beautiful, brilliant thing.
I thoroughly enjoyed those boys's journey! Gods, what an emotional roller coaster.
While there was a lot of action in all three books, I feel as if it was heavily focused on them guys difficult relationship, which was perfect. I came to love and adore these men and truly loved seeing them growing close while still drifting apart at times. It was truly an amazing journey.
And Tom, dearest Tom, my sugarplum, can I let you in on a secret?
I think you're the most incredible, extraordinary, lovely little thing.
You take my breath away.
---
I've heard people say that this is "no fluffy love story" and maybe it's not "fluffy", but honestly those boys are tender and loving and I've felt more love with these men than in 80% of the last four hundred books I've read.
Personally, I feel like this is one of the most beautiful love stories ever.
Just. Beautiful.
Mr. Deckard, your mind is a beautiful, brilliant thing.
I thoroughly enjoyed those boys's journey! Gods, what an emotional roller coaster.
While there was a lot of action in all three books, I feel as if it was heavily focused on them guys difficult relationship, which was perfect. I came to love and adore these men and truly loved seeing them growing close while still drifting apart at times. It was truly an amazing journey.
And Tom, dearest Tom, my sugarplum, can I let you in on a secret?
I think you're the most incredible, extraordinary, lovely little thing.
You take my breath away.
---
I've heard people say that this is "no fluffy love story" and maybe it's not "fluffy", but honestly those boys are tender and loving and I've felt more love with these men than in 80% of the last four hundred books I've read.
Personally, I feel like this is one of the most beautiful love stories ever.
Just. Beautiful.
April 11, 2015
So, is there such a thing as an author who can't write a book review to save his life? Let me assure you good folks, there is - and you're looking at him! *hangs head in shame*
Indeed, the thought alone of putting pen to paper in an effort to convey my thoughts about any particular piece of brilliant writing scares the livin' crap outta me! I honestly don't know how reviewers do what they do. I'm in total awe of them!
Today's brilliant piece of writing? Bey Deckard's Fated. So, despite my inability to do any sort of justice to a proper review, please take my word for it and pickup book 3 of the Baal's Heart series! You'll be so damn glad you did!
Peace,
JLT =)
#pleasurethroughdenial
Indeed, the thought alone of putting pen to paper in an effort to convey my thoughts about any particular piece of brilliant writing scares the livin' crap outta me! I honestly don't know how reviewers do what they do. I'm in total awe of them!
Today's brilliant piece of writing? Bey Deckard's Fated. So, despite my inability to do any sort of justice to a proper review, please take my word for it and pickup book 3 of the Baal's Heart series! You'll be so damn glad you did!
Peace,
JLT =)
#pleasurethroughdenial
October 11, 2019
Every trip with this crew I enjoy more and more 🚤🤗!! FYI, I'm not talking about any pleasure trip either... ☠😂
October 24, 2018
I found this installment by far the best of this series so far I also maybe biased as i loved Tom's character throughout out these books the more i read of him in books 1-2 and finally it was nice to read form his P.O.V and as always Tom's character didn't disappoint :-)
December 5, 2015
I'm leaving for vacation so I'll write the review when I come back.
Meanwhile...
Enjoy!
Meanwhile...
Enjoy!
April 11, 2015
4.5 stars! A trilogy that is a must read for the genre.
December 17, 2018
4.5 stars .... wow another great book - I have really loved this pirate adventure. Great plot, characters and unique storyline. Well worth the read if you enjoy a little darkness with your pirates !
April 1, 2024
Baltsaros needs to return to the place he once called home. How much can vengeance feel like freedom?
Jon has an encounter with fate, in the shape of an old woman, a wolf, a cat and a lion.
Tom is out of balance with himself and his partners. Jon goes on and on about fate and Baltsaros is just seeking revenge. Where does that leave him? In the end, what will be left of them for him to cherish?
TW: rape on page.
God this was difficult. It took a turn I was not expecting. This is probably too dark for me, but it still hooked me until the end.
Not a fan of the whole vengeance is useless. I do like when revenge/vengeance is served. You may not get whatever you lost back, but you will make sure the person knows there’s nothing they can do to distract you from your goal.
Jon has an encounter with fate, in the shape of an old woman, a wolf, a cat and a lion.
Tom is out of balance with himself and his partners. Jon goes on and on about fate and Baltsaros is just seeking revenge. Where does that leave him? In the end, what will be left of them for him to cherish?
TW: rape on page.
God this was difficult. It took a turn I was not expecting. This is probably too dark for me, but it still hooked me until the end.
Not a fan of the whole vengeance is useless. I do like when revenge/vengeance is served. You may not get whatever you lost back, but you will make sure the person knows there’s nothing they can do to distract you from your goal.
April 15, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Fated: Blood and Redemption is the highly anticipated third book in the Baal’s Heart Trilogy. Where the second book, Sacrificed: Heart Beyond the Spires, had a lot of strategic action at almost every turn, Fated alternates between movement and increased character development. We are offered more: more of Tom’s shattered childhood, more of what is at the heart of the darkness that lives within Baltsaros, and more of Jon changing and trying to adapt. It’s pirates in a historical fantasy setting, yet it’s intimate and it’s personal. There is also humor in unexpected places as Tom frets over his jealousy that Baltsaros has only tried to kill Jon and not Tom. There is also no better place for characters to offer up moral ambiguity than in this world where they can let loose without thought to consequence. But, there is always a consequence. It’s not all about trying to find the light, but for some characters, it’s about the struggle to find a balance between the lightness and the darkness. With three distinct main characters, the author is able to give each of them exactly what they need to evolve in a way that stays true to the character. The story offers some focus on what you have instead of what you don’t and the family you make instead of the one you lost. It may sound poetic and easy, but it’s not. This author absolutely does not make anything easy for these already broken men and keeps at them right until the last dark and violent moment and the very last word.
The writing once again takes center stage and once again it absolutely has to be recognized. The author has a respect for the art of story telling and a command of language, or several languages as the case may be here. There are flashbacks throughout the story that move the adventure along with a history that has been well layered and presented throughout the trilogy. We know these characters so well that the flashbacks transition as seamlessly and effortlessly as a recalled memory. It is also effortless to step back into this universe as the world here is once again richly detailed and the words assemble themselves in perfect alignment, creating a series of perfect moments with a striking visual intensity. The characters all have distinct voices that remain true with every word and the characters thrive on the conflict that is forced upon them time and again. I can offer a five-star rating and can say Deckard’s writing is impressive and that he is wickedly and wildly talented, and while it’s all true, it somehow sounds ordinary when in fact it is extraordinary.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Fated: Blood and Redemption is the highly anticipated third book in the Baal’s Heart Trilogy. Where the second book, Sacrificed: Heart Beyond the Spires, had a lot of strategic action at almost every turn, Fated alternates between movement and increased character development. We are offered more: more of Tom’s shattered childhood, more of what is at the heart of the darkness that lives within Baltsaros, and more of Jon changing and trying to adapt. It’s pirates in a historical fantasy setting, yet it’s intimate and it’s personal. There is also humor in unexpected places as Tom frets over his jealousy that Baltsaros has only tried to kill Jon and not Tom. There is also no better place for characters to offer up moral ambiguity than in this world where they can let loose without thought to consequence. But, there is always a consequence. It’s not all about trying to find the light, but for some characters, it’s about the struggle to find a balance between the lightness and the darkness. With three distinct main characters, the author is able to give each of them exactly what they need to evolve in a way that stays true to the character. The story offers some focus on what you have instead of what you don’t and the family you make instead of the one you lost. It may sound poetic and easy, but it’s not. This author absolutely does not make anything easy for these already broken men and keeps at them right until the last dark and violent moment and the very last word.
The writing once again takes center stage and once again it absolutely has to be recognized. The author has a respect for the art of story telling and a command of language, or several languages as the case may be here. There are flashbacks throughout the story that move the adventure along with a history that has been well layered and presented throughout the trilogy. We know these characters so well that the flashbacks transition as seamlessly and effortlessly as a recalled memory. It is also effortless to step back into this universe as the world here is once again richly detailed and the words assemble themselves in perfect alignment, creating a series of perfect moments with a striking visual intensity. The characters all have distinct voices that remain true with every word and the characters thrive on the conflict that is forced upon them time and again. I can offer a five-star rating and can say Deckard’s writing is impressive and that he is wickedly and wildly talented, and while it’s all true, it somehow sounds ordinary when in fact it is extraordinary.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
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