Cruel Dynasty

Oooh the plot thickens... Sometimes a second book in a trilogy can feel like a bit of a filler, but not with this author. We are treated to more depth, more intrigue, more answers, but even more questions. Oh, and lots and lots more schmexy times. Sign me up, please. This book immediately follows London Dynasty. Kate, pretending to be Kerrigan – let's just call her K, is shaking by Holden's revelation. She's also increasingly worried about the situation surrounding the real Kerrigan, especially when things are being decided for her that she has little control over. She and Spencer are growing closer and building their relationship. It may have been arranged, but they are both hoping for and working towards a marriage of love. But then there's Holden. Not only does he appear to know her secret, he also keeps antagonizing them both with his relentless flirting. It doesn't help that the brothers have a history of sharing women, and, while K knows it’s not a good idea to entertain the thought, she can't help but be intrigued by the fantasy. Amidst wedding dress shopping and a trip to the countryside, she is also dealing with recurring panic attacks. Not having all the information she needs when being thrust in new social situations only exacerbates the issue. She doesn't know who she can trust, so finds herself increasingly lonely. I'm still rooting for K and Spencer, but as Holden reveals more of himself, he's building a strong case in his favor. I very much enjoy the way this story develops. It leaves you guessing at what is going on behind the scenes while giving you enough to keep you going. I also love how the author weaves her other series into these books; there are references to the Royals Saga as well as The Rivals. K even makes a new friend while being subjected to a frenemy from Kerrigan's past. The cliffhanger at the end is a massive bomb shell that left me eagerly anticipating the next book.

I am not sure how I feel about this story becoming a love triangle.The first book had elements of some sharing( with consent and it was steamy) and hints of their mutual attraction. I was feeling that Holden will play some negative part further but it has become a very complicated situation that is causing me anxiety and heartache. The author did end the story with a bomb that explains partially why Kate and Holden shares this connection. There are skeletons in everyone's closet. And none are pretty. It was erotic. Complex. It had an undertone of political and aristocratic dramas. I love both the men. Spencer with his calm confidence, bossy arrogance and magical charisma. Holden has all of those but he is the storm. Reckless. Impulsive. Not so proper. And Kate is properly and severely divided between two. She has been thrust into a world she doesn't know anything about and her emotions are wreaking havoc. I will finish the story because I have to know what happens next. ( ARC review)

Holy Crispy Crackers 😳 No flipping way! First I'm really not liking Spencer at the moment Holden is more than the playboy everyone thinks he is - We get to see a whole new side to him as well as some of his secrets and the why's behind his behavior I might be a bit broken when it comes to him This is the second book so if you have not read the first STOP This is one trilogy you do not want to miss I can't say anything more cause I'm afraid I'll spoil something Just Holy cow Strap in tight for this ride ... This ends on a screaming cliffy!!