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Man of Carnage
The hunter becomes the hunted… or does he?
Family, loyalty, brotherhood, and respect are the codes Ziare “Ze” Esai lives by and why the Lords of Chaos Motorcycle Club is the perfect fit for him. A ruthless killer with morals is almost unheard of, but that's what keeps Ze grounded. As an enforcer, he can satiate the darkness within him and deliver justice to those who deserve it. All is going well for Ze until one day, the father of a man he “eliminated” sends someone after him to even the score.
Colton Bridger is a seasoned assassin who never misses his mark. He enjoys his job because the money is good, but the thrill of the kill is better. When he’s commissioned to take out a target who murdered a wealthy man’s son three years ago, he gladly takes the job, expecting it to be business as usual. What he doesn’t expect is to meet his match in the man who is the cub to his Tiger.
In a game of cat and mouse, neither man knows who is the predator and who is the prey. Tensions are high, but libidos are higher. The chemistry between the two men reaches nuclear levels, leaving them confused and wanting. Will they be able to ignore their thirst for blood in order to quench their desires for each other?
Warning: This is a dark MM romance featuring alpha males with aggressive and possessive tendencies. Plenty of action and chaos. This story is also a prequel to the Road to Carnage series.
Virtuous Sinners is a collection of gay romance stories that center on killers who are guided by a virtuous code. These dark novels are connected only by theme and can be read as a standalone.
The killer's virtue in Man of Carnage: Honor
Family, loyalty, brotherhood, and respect are the codes Ziare “Ze” Esai lives by and why the Lords of Chaos Motorcycle Club is the perfect fit for him. A ruthless killer with morals is almost unheard of, but that's what keeps Ze grounded. As an enforcer, he can satiate the darkness within him and deliver justice to those who deserve it. All is going well for Ze until one day, the father of a man he “eliminated” sends someone after him to even the score.
Colton Bridger is a seasoned assassin who never misses his mark. He enjoys his job because the money is good, but the thrill of the kill is better. When he’s commissioned to take out a target who murdered a wealthy man’s son three years ago, he gladly takes the job, expecting it to be business as usual. What he doesn’t expect is to meet his match in the man who is the cub to his Tiger.
In a game of cat and mouse, neither man knows who is the predator and who is the prey. Tensions are high, but libidos are higher. The chemistry between the two men reaches nuclear levels, leaving them confused and wanting. Will they be able to ignore their thirst for blood in order to quench their desires for each other?
Warning: This is a dark MM romance featuring alpha males with aggressive and possessive tendencies. Plenty of action and chaos. This story is also a prequel to the Road to Carnage series.
Virtuous Sinners is a collection of gay romance stories that center on killers who are guided by a virtuous code. These dark novels are connected only by theme and can be read as a standalone.
The killer's virtue in Man of Carnage: Honor
223 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2022
About the author
Nicholas Bella
85 books1,038 followersI'm the author of deliciously dark, sexy, and thrilling MM fiction. I've written paranormal, erotic urban fantasy, dark romance, and contemporary stories with characters who are rude, sassy, charming, arrogant, and hotter than sinners in hell. They tell me what they want and I just follow orders.
When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (even have my own review blog!) I'm a bad influence on readers because I corrupt them with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on people who make their blood rise in certain places. I know...I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped.
Check out my literary wares to find your next addiction.
Join my VIPs if you're the type who enjoys spoiling yourself with exclusive content and rewards.
I love interacting with my readers, so hit me up and follow me on my Social Media.
When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (even have my own review blog!) I'm a bad influence on readers because I corrupt them with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on people who make their blood rise in certain places. I know...I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped.
Check out my literary wares to find your next addiction.
Join my VIPs if you're the type who enjoys spoiling yourself with exclusive content and rewards.
I love interacting with my readers, so hit me up and follow me on my Social Media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
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April 6, 2023
“I may be a monster, but I’m the monster other monsters fear. I am a Man of Carnage”
I started Outlawed: Lords of Chaos MC book one of the Road to Carnage series but I learned that there’s a prequel that was also part of the multi-author series Virtuous Sinners titled Man of Carnage.
Man of Carnage is the story of Ziare “Ze”, an enforcer for his motorcycle club. Despite being a ruthless killer, he has a moral code. While on a mission to dispatch a target, he’s also being hunted by Colton, a 50-year-old assassin from a dangerous and influential family. Both men are instantly drawn to one another despite trying to take the other out in their initial meeting. They have an intense and bloody connection.
I liked their relationship dynamic. There’s a bit of D/s kink, and I liked seeing Ze submit to Colton. Tiger and cub.
This story is pretty fast pace with a lot of action and violence. It definitely starts out with a bang and is intense for the first 50% of the story. A lot is going especially in the second half. There are many characters introduced in the story, which I assume will have their own stories in the series. I am especially curious about Ze’s younger brother Zindel.
Overall it was a quick read and I did enjoy it~ I will definitely be continuing the series!
I started Outlawed: Lords of Chaos MC book one of the Road to Carnage series but I learned that there’s a prequel that was also part of the multi-author series Virtuous Sinners titled Man of Carnage.
Man of Carnage is the story of Ziare “Ze”, an enforcer for his motorcycle club. Despite being a ruthless killer, he has a moral code. While on a mission to dispatch a target, he’s also being hunted by Colton, a 50-year-old assassin from a dangerous and influential family. Both men are instantly drawn to one another despite trying to take the other out in their initial meeting. They have an intense and bloody connection.
I liked their relationship dynamic. There’s a bit of D/s kink, and I liked seeing Ze submit to Colton. Tiger and cub.
“Yeah, that’s it, little cub, I know you want it… you need it.” He grabbed a handful of Zaire’s hair and yanked his head back, then kissed him again, roughly, because he knew this cub needed a tiger to tame him.
This story is pretty fast pace with a lot of action and violence. It definitely starts out with a bang and is intense for the first 50% of the story. A lot is going especially in the second half. There are many characters introduced in the story, which I assume will have their own stories in the series. I am especially curious about Ze’s younger brother Zindel.
Overall it was a quick read and I did enjoy it~ I will definitely be continuing the series!
September 30, 2022
Ze (Zaïre) is Enforcer, Man of Carnage, 5th Chapter, and First Generation, of MC Lords of Chaos.
Ze’s on a job, kill the senator.
Colton is fifty years old and the assassin in this story, he comes from money. His new target is a twenty year somewhat biker. Easy peasy? No! Because desire blocks both their vision, it’s instant.
‘His cub’ and ‘mine’, yep that’s how Colton sees Zaire.
One scorching violent night isn’t enough. There is something both can’t deny.
Only, it’s getting complicated when the assassins got assassins on their back.
If you can’t handle bloody acts, don’t read this story, because it’s mean and vicious. The biker club and everything around it brings a lot of tension to this story, especially when Ze’s brother got caught.
It was a raw, tough, bloody violent read, even the romantic and sexy moments were rough, just how they like it.
Overall a wonderfully written prequel to the Road to Carnage with the prospect of a continuation.
Ze’s on a job, kill the senator.
Colton is fifty years old and the assassin in this story, he comes from money. His new target is a twenty year somewhat biker. Easy peasy? No! Because desire blocks both their vision, it’s instant.
‘His cub’ and ‘mine’, yep that’s how Colton sees Zaire.
One scorching violent night isn’t enough. There is something both can’t deny.
Only, it’s getting complicated when the assassins got assassins on their back.
If you can’t handle bloody acts, don’t read this story, because it’s mean and vicious. The biker club and everything around it brings a lot of tension to this story, especially when Ze’s brother got caught.
It was a raw, tough, bloody violent read, even the romantic and sexy moments were rough, just how they like it.
Overall a wonderfully written prequel to the Road to Carnage with the prospect of a continuation.
November 13, 2022
So, I have to be honest, I almost didn't finish this. Not because of violence or blood shed, I actually love books like that, but because I got completely bogged down in details! Like, so many details! The author goes into great detail to describe the setting (world building) and the characters but it was total overkill in my opinion. So many adjectives and so much excess explaining that I felt the storyline got completely lost. I didn't feel any connection to any of the characters and didn't have any desire to see what happens next. It felt as if I was coming into a story that was already ongoing, and although the author states that you don't have to have read anything before this, I still felt as if I was missing something. Technically there was nothing wrong with this book, I just couldn't get as involved in it as I would have liked. That's just my opinion!
December 21, 2022
It was okay, insta-obsessed, fast pacing.
I did like the dirty talk it was different.
Steam-2.8/5, it was good but some scenes weren’t that detailed and rushed through. Surprising breeding kink(which I loved), degradation, sadist & masochist.
I did like the dirty talk it was different.
Steam-2.8/5, it was good but some scenes weren’t that detailed and rushed through. Surprising breeding kink(which I loved), degradation, sadist & masochist.
October 13, 2022
There is no doubt in my mind that this author can write some of the most sexiest characters ever with stories that are not easily forgotten so it came as a real surprise to me to find this one slightly lacking.
Don't get me wrong, the characters here are just as sexy as ever, I just found the writing a little bland.
Definitely not one of my favourites by this author – or maybe it was just that my expectations were way too high considering how much I love the New Haven series.
However, it was still done well enough that I found myself curious about the continuation.
Don't get me wrong, the characters here are just as sexy as ever, I just found the writing a little bland.
Definitely not one of my favourites by this author – or maybe it was just that my expectations were way too high considering how much I love the New Haven series.
However, it was still done well enough that I found myself curious about the continuation.
November 20, 2022
20.11.22
edit: 1.5 to 2 stars
while talking about this story with my friend there were so many things I had to rethink about that I can't give more than 1.5 to 2 stars
Previous review:
2.5-3
I’m ambivalent with this one had to re-rate
I enjoyed the first main plot with all the carnage, the gore, mrdr, the hunt, the fight-fcking, but it all was rather short; the plot changed/evolved into another (?)
the relationship and the spice fell a bit flat.
It’s rather insta-obsession (nothing wrong with that)
We (all my different personalities and I) love a good obsession at first sight trope
Ze started as a really strong character and Colton had to show him how to submit (what I really liked)
Ioved the Age Gap and that Colton is a hot dominant silver fox!
The relationship is build on a lot of fcking (also nothing wrong with that) but it were rather short/quick situations the kinks were rather mentioned than really woven into the spice and I would’ve loved to read rather a bit less but more elaborate sensual scenes.
This was a prequel story for a new series so there were a few introductions of interesting characters
All in all:
It was a lot going on for one book and it leaves me a bit confused
—
+arc for honest review @gayromancereview
+t2s
+kinktober
edit: 1.5 to 2 stars
while talking about this story with my friend there were so many things I had to rethink about that I can't give more than 1.5 to 2 stars
Previous review:
2.5-3
I’m ambivalent with this one had to re-rate
I enjoyed the first main plot with all the carnage, the gore, mrdr, the hunt, the fight-fcking, but it all was rather short; the plot changed/evolved into another (?)
the relationship and the spice fell a bit flat.
It’s rather insta-obsession (nothing wrong with that)
We (all my different personalities and I) love a good obsession at first sight trope
Ze started as a really strong character and Colton had to show him how to submit (what I really liked)
Ioved the Age Gap and that Colton is a hot dominant silver fox!
The relationship is build on a lot of fcking (also nothing wrong with that) but it were rather short/quick situations the kinks were rather mentioned than really woven into the spice and I would’ve loved to read rather a bit less but more elaborate sensual scenes.
This was a prequel story for a new series so there were a few introductions of interesting characters
All in all:
It was a lot going on for one book and it leaves me a bit confused
—
+arc for honest review @gayromancereview
+t2s
+kinktober
October 16, 2022
Ze and Colton ❤️🔥🩸
What In the sick and twisted hell did I just read???? Something dark and so freaking delicious....that's what!!!
Holy Hell! this one blew me away!!! I knew going into the book that this author can write one hell of a story, but this....this was incredible!!!
I can not even begin to describe how I feel about this book, so I'm not even going to try. I will say that this book is gripping, gritty, and heart stopping at times. It is filled with action, emotion, lust and violence! Both Ze and Colton are twisted AF, however in the MC and assassin world that they live, to find a true love that accepts you whole...the good, the bad and the twisted is rare and these two grab onto it with both hands and don't let go! I am literally still reeling from the greatness of this book and I have to say, it's one of the best books that I've read this year...it's just that good! I 1000% recommend but be warned it's not for the faint of heart and it isn't a fluffy love story...but a love story nonetheless and it was sexy as hell. I cannot wait to see what's next in this series!!!
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
What In the sick and twisted hell did I just read???? Something dark and so freaking delicious....that's what!!!
Holy Hell! this one blew me away!!! I knew going into the book that this author can write one hell of a story, but this....this was incredible!!!
I can not even begin to describe how I feel about this book, so I'm not even going to try. I will say that this book is gripping, gritty, and heart stopping at times. It is filled with action, emotion, lust and violence! Both Ze and Colton are twisted AF, however in the MC and assassin world that they live, to find a true love that accepts you whole...the good, the bad and the twisted is rare and these two grab onto it with both hands and don't let go! I am literally still reeling from the greatness of this book and I have to say, it's one of the best books that I've read this year...it's just that good! I 1000% recommend but be warned it's not for the faint of heart and it isn't a fluffy love story...but a love story nonetheless and it was sexy as hell. I cannot wait to see what's next in this series!!!
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
October 15, 2022
“The killer's virtue in Man of Carnage: Honor”
Ze is an assassin with morals. He lives his life by a strict code. He is also an enforcer for a outlaw motorcycle club, his family. Which gives him an outlet for his baser needs. He kills a rich, serial killer. Colton, also an assassin, is hired to kill Ze. Their cat and mouse brings them together. Both men knowing without a doubt they belong together. Now if they can just get the rest of their scary families to agree.
Two hardened assassins who go soft for each other while still being incredibly scary with the rest of their combined worlds. Insta love to the nth degree.
Dark, filthy, violent, bloody, sexy and just a luscious story. Gritty characters who aren’t afraid to get bloodied up and stake their claim on their corner of the world.
One of Ze’s brothers makes a comment that has Ze asking, “About what’s going on between us.” Colton frowned. “What do you mean?” and Ze asks Colton, “When he said that we found love amongst the carnage?” “Because whatever this was with Tiger felt right in all the wrong ways and wrong in all the right ways.”
I received an arc of this book.
Ze is an assassin with morals. He lives his life by a strict code. He is also an enforcer for a outlaw motorcycle club, his family. Which gives him an outlet for his baser needs. He kills a rich, serial killer. Colton, also an assassin, is hired to kill Ze. Their cat and mouse brings them together. Both men knowing without a doubt they belong together. Now if they can just get the rest of their scary families to agree.
Two hardened assassins who go soft for each other while still being incredibly scary with the rest of their combined worlds. Insta love to the nth degree.
Dark, filthy, violent, bloody, sexy and just a luscious story. Gritty characters who aren’t afraid to get bloodied up and stake their claim on their corner of the world.
One of Ze’s brothers makes a comment that has Ze asking, “About what’s going on between us.” Colton frowned. “What do you mean?” and Ze asks Colton, “When he said that we found love amongst the carnage?” “Because whatever this was with Tiger felt right in all the wrong ways and wrong in all the right ways.”
I received an arc of this book.
December 17, 2022
➡ 3.6⭐'s
💙 Colton "Tiger" + Zaire "Ze" 💚
( -_•)╦̵̵̿╤─ ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ （ ．.）
💙 Colton "Tiger" + Zaire "Ze" 💚
( -_•)╦̵̵̿╤─ ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ （ ．.）
October 3, 2022
Ze and Colton are a very interesting pair. This is a very fast paced and very much insta love story. A little too quick for me but I overall enjoyed it.
It’s violent and passionate from the first page. Ze is very intense but his daddy Colton seems to bring him to his knees 😉
It’s violent and passionate from the first page. Ze is very intense but his daddy Colton seems to bring him to his knees 😉
November 30, 2022
A very strong beginning 😍 I was immediately pulled into the story. However... the further I got into the book, the more 'oddities' and 'incredulities' I began to notice. 🤔
I don't mind conveniences and coincidences to make a story flow, 😉 but this story had way too many 'unbelievabilities' for my taste.
Although sizzzling🔥hawt, the instant lust, obsession & love was totally unbelievable.
When Ze finally told his club what was happening, they accepted things way, way too easy; highly unlikely and unbelievable.
The name 'Ze' was really confusing for me. 😬 In Dutch 'ze' means 'she'.... and somehow every time I read 'Ze'... my brain switched to Dutch. 🤣
Colton was very convincing as a Dominant; Ze however never convinced me as a sub.
Was it really necessary to introduce so so many secondary characters? 😵💫
And then a baby?? 😨 I don't even want to think of what will become of this child, lol!
Despite my issues with this book, I somehow still enjoyed it.... until right before the end when things really started to get out of hand (and rushed!) 🥴 and I was glad it was over!
I liked this book enough to want to try another book written by this autor. Maybe The Road to Carnage Series? 😀 (https://www.goodreads.com/series/3280...)
My rating: too good for 3 stars, so 4 GR stars it is. 😏
➡️ Man of Carnage is part of the Virtuous Sinners Collection.
Virtuous Sinners is a collection of gay romance stories that center on killers who are guided by a virtuous code. These dark novels are connected only by theme and can be read standalone.
1. I Am God's Dagger by K.A. Merikan {ARC} ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. Dark Valor by Helena Novak
3. Day of Judgment by Aurora Crane & Briar Kearney
4. Speak & Obey by Ki Brightly & M.D. Gregory
5. Moment of Truth by C.J. Vincent
6. Nightingale by Laura Lascarso
7. Man of Carnage by Nicholas Bella ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
8. Pure Silence by K.L. Hiers
9. The Right Way to Wrong by Ashlynn Mills
★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
I don't mind conveniences and coincidences to make a story flow, 😉 but this story had way too many 'unbelievabilities' for my taste.
Although sizzzling🔥hawt, the instant lust, obsession & love was totally unbelievable.
When Ze finally told his club what was happening, they accepted things way, way too easy; highly unlikely and unbelievable.
The name 'Ze' was really confusing for me. 😬 In Dutch 'ze' means 'she'.... and somehow every time I read 'Ze'... my brain switched to Dutch. 🤣
Colton was very convincing as a Dominant; Ze however never convinced me as a sub.
Was it really necessary to introduce so so many secondary characters? 😵💫
And then a baby?? 😨 I don't even want to think of what will become of this child, lol!
Despite my issues with this book, I somehow still enjoyed it.... until right before the end when things really started to get out of hand (and rushed!) 🥴 and I was glad it was over!
I liked this book enough to want to try another book written by this autor. Maybe The Road to Carnage Series? 😀 (https://www.goodreads.com/series/3280...)
My rating: too good for 3 stars, so 4 GR stars it is. 😏
➡️ Man of Carnage is part of the Virtuous Sinners Collection.
Virtuous Sinners is a collection of gay romance stories that center on killers who are guided by a virtuous code. These dark novels are connected only by theme and can be read standalone. 1. I Am God's Dagger by K.A. Merikan {ARC} ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. Dark Valor by Helena Novak
3. Day of Judgment by Aurora Crane & Briar Kearney
4. Speak & Obey by Ki Brightly & M.D. Gregory
5. Moment of Truth by C.J. Vincent
6. Nightingale by Laura Lascarso
7. Man of Carnage by Nicholas Bella ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
8. Pure Silence by K.L. Hiers
9. The Right Way to Wrong by Ashlynn Mills
★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★ ▬ ★
October 3, 2022
MAN Of Carnage was my first book by Nicholas Bella. I was so excited to dive into this book as all of the Virtuous Sinners series has been such a hit with me. Nicholas Bella seriously pulled out the big guns for this gore fest and it made for another brilliant edition to this already awesome series. What to expect from Man Of Carnage? A Hella lot of heat, serial killers, Mafia, Assassins and a feisty AF! younger brother and an overbearing Mother who is as ruthless as she is cold.
This story really went off with a bang! With “Ze” our main character going to town on somebody's ass and a domino effect follows from there. With a whole load of wreckage and carnage to enjoy to your heart's content. If you're of the faint hearted this book probably won't be for you but you can check out Nicholas's dark content warning because that too is a treat! I certainly enjoyed reading it. The characters within this brotherhood that made up the Lord's of Chaos are the real strength of this book along with “Tigers” brother Nathan. They are such an entertaining bunch of misfits. I can't wait to hopefully see some of them in Road To Carnage because I have that series to dive into now and I can't begin to express how excited I am to start that free-for-all. If it's anything like Carnage I can expect the unexpected.
Ze and Tigers first encounter was hot and they made for a seriously sweet couple if not a little unconventional, but aren't they the best types? The unconventional lot! They certainly aren't boring. I totally recommend this book if you aren't apposed to violence, bloodshed and some mistreatment of appendages!
This story really went off with a bang! With “Ze” our main character going to town on somebody's ass and a domino effect follows from there. With a whole load of wreckage and carnage to enjoy to your heart's content. If you're of the faint hearted this book probably won't be for you but you can check out Nicholas's dark content warning because that too is a treat! I certainly enjoyed reading it. The characters within this brotherhood that made up the Lord's of Chaos are the real strength of this book along with “Tigers” brother Nathan. They are such an entertaining bunch of misfits. I can't wait to hopefully see some of them in Road To Carnage because I have that series to dive into now and I can't begin to express how excited I am to start that free-for-all. If it's anything like Carnage I can expect the unexpected.
Ze and Tigers first encounter was hot and they made for a seriously sweet couple if not a little unconventional, but aren't they the best types? The unconventional lot! They certainly aren't boring. I totally recommend this book if you aren't apposed to violence, bloodshed and some mistreatment of appendages!
September 29, 2022
Wow I loved reading this book,,,,,I think this one is the first I read by this author Ze is an Enforcer,for his motorcycle club but he is also there assassin, but only kills bad people while on assignment he gets shot and f**** up by another assassin but sparks light up & Colton wants to keep Ze because he is his cub for his tiger,,,there is alot to this story that has it"s up and downs but this author makes you want to keep reading because you want to know what happens next and you will want to know what will happen to Zindel, Ze's brother,,,,I read this book for this author for my honest opinion
October 16, 2022
This is the story of Ze(Zaire) and Colston. This book is part of the Virtuous Sinners series and the prequel to Road of Carnage series. Wow - this book is AMAZING!!! Please read the trigger warnings as this book is not a light romance, it is far, raw and gritty. There is an honesty to this story that hooked me and will stay with me for a long time. The action, suspense and danger keeps you riveted. Never thought I would find two assassins falling in love addictive. Can't wait to see what's next and read this one again. Very definitely recommended.
I received this book as an Arc and I am happily reviewing it voluntarily.
I received this book as an Arc and I am happily reviewing it voluntarily.
October 11, 2022
Nicholas Bella does it again bringing the dark characters and heat. Colton and Ze are both assassins from different organizations and they are the best of the best. Now they are pitted against each other with one the Hunter and the other the hunted. I couldn’t put the story down at all. It had me on the edge of my seat and I just kept needing to know what would happen next. The chemistry was intense and the interactions were spicy. There is a lot of darkness and some violent moments along with the emotionally intense moments. I loved this MC story and the characters in it.
February 8, 2023
Forget about setting the sheets on fire, Ze and Colton show everyone how it’s really done. Their first tumble was messy and I’m not even sure when things got heated but it did and it was one crazy mess.
Nicholas Bella delivers another mind blowing book that left me wanting more.
My first time listening to Matt Williams and I really enjoyed his performance.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Nicholas Bella delivers another mind blowing book that left me wanting more.
My first time listening to Matt Williams and I really enjoyed his performance.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
October 16, 2022
I loved this book! It was intense, exciting, suspenseful, dangerous, and scorching. Two skilled assassins- one sent to kill the other, but with that kind of chemistry and connection, they wind up in bed instead. Colton and Ze are such wonderful characters. This isn't the type of romance I usually read, but the premise was so unique I had to check it out. I was not disappointed! Action-packed and exciting, I couldn't put it down. 5 stars.
January 24, 2023
I wanted to love it and it really started with a bang and lots of really great fighting and assassinations and assassination attempts but then it fizzled out and the ending felt so rushed.
This is the prequel to the Lords of Chaos MC/Road to Carnage series. We met Zaire “Ze” Esai the first time in Enforced. He is a member of the Chicago chapter of the LoC MC and one of their enforcers. So this is his story and how he and Tiger met. Colton Bridger comes from a line of assassins, has been in the business since he was a child, trained and handled by his mother alongside his siblings.
What I liked: I love the violence and torture in the epilogue. I enjoyed the chase between Ze and Tiger. I was greatly entertained by their encounters and fight and I adored the hate sex, that explored their relationship between the sheets, even though they tried to kill each other. I am totally happy about the age gap between Colton and Zaire. I loved the supporting characters of the Chicago chapter and the skills each of them brings to the club. I am on board with the solution of initiating Colton into the MC.
What I didn't like: Colton's mother annoyed me immensely. The ending felt rushed and I could have done without the family addition at that time. Later in the relationship would have been fine.
I put details in spoilers
Overall it was entertaining until it wasn't. As a standalone it's very much connected to the road of carnage series. 3.5 stars rounded up, because I hope that we will get back to exciting story telling and away from sappy romance.
This is the prequel to the Lords of Chaos MC/Road to Carnage series. We met Zaire “Ze” Esai the first time in Enforced. He is a member of the Chicago chapter of the LoC MC and one of their enforcers. So this is his story and how he and Tiger met. Colton Bridger comes from a line of assassins, has been in the business since he was a child, trained and handled by his mother alongside his siblings.
What I liked: I love the violence and torture in the epilogue. I enjoyed the chase between Ze and Tiger. I was greatly entertained by their encounters and fight and I adored the hate sex, that explored their relationship between the sheets, even though they tried to kill each other. I am totally happy about the age gap between Colton and Zaire. I loved the supporting characters of the Chicago chapter and the skills each of them brings to the club. I am on board with the solution of initiating Colton into the MC.
What I didn't like: Colton's mother annoyed me immensely. The ending felt rushed and I could have done without the family addition at that time. Later in the relationship would have been fine.
I put details in spoilers
Overall it was entertaining until it wasn't. As a standalone it's very much connected to the road of carnage series. 3.5 stars rounded up, because I hope that we will get back to exciting story telling and away from sappy romance.
September 30, 2022
Dnf at 87%
I admit I mixed up the author. This one was by Nicolas Bella. For no reason at all I thought it was by Gianni Holmes.
I wondered the whole time reading since when the author has such a bad writing style. You cannot imagine how much I hated this book. The serial killer thing was not believable at all. MC1 -the killer dude- was sexually aroused by killing. This could be good. Spoiler: it wasn’t. It was absolutely not portrayed why and how and what was about MC 1
Also MC 1 is in a motorcycle Club, because of course he his. Every member of the club has a nickname. Every time someone new came on page the sentence would be like this: Jack „pirate“ sparrow mixed himself a drink. Donald „spade“ duck got his cock sucked in the couch. And so on.
This is the prequel of a new motorcycle series (guess who will definitely not read it). At the end we are forced to read the backstory to probably book one. The brother steals from a mafia dude and to pay his debt has to be a whore (very original plot). At 87% I couldn’t anymore. It was that awful.
The sex scenes were okay, the constant breeding thing was a bit annoying
MC 2 was just bland. An assassin from an assassin family (of course). His mother is his handler (could you be more ridiculous?)
It was insta love and not of the good kind. I hated all characters. And I mean everyone. I hated everyone. To get his mother off his back MC 2 promises her a grandchild without any conversation whatsoever about this topic with MC 1.
This book was a mess and I would not recommend it.
I admit I mixed up the author. This one was by Nicolas Bella. For no reason at all I thought it was by Gianni Holmes.
I wondered the whole time reading since when the author has such a bad writing style. You cannot imagine how much I hated this book. The serial killer thing was not believable at all. MC1 -the killer dude- was sexually aroused by killing. This could be good. Spoiler: it wasn’t. It was absolutely not portrayed why and how and what was about MC 1
Also MC 1 is in a motorcycle Club, because of course he his. Every member of the club has a nickname. Every time someone new came on page the sentence would be like this: Jack „pirate“ sparrow mixed himself a drink. Donald „spade“ duck got his cock sucked in the couch. And so on.
This is the prequel of a new motorcycle series (guess who will definitely not read it). At the end we are forced to read the backstory to probably book one. The brother steals from a mafia dude and to pay his debt has to be a whore (very original plot). At 87% I couldn’t anymore. It was that awful.
The sex scenes were okay, the constant breeding thing was a bit annoying
MC 2 was just bland. An assassin from an assassin family (of course). His mother is his handler (could you be more ridiculous?)
It was insta love and not of the good kind. I hated all characters. And I mean everyone. I hated everyone. To get his mother off his back MC 2 promises her a grandchild without any conversation whatsoever about this topic with MC 1.
This book was a mess and I would not recommend it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2022
You know there is killing cuz it's a job, then there's killing because you like it. Oh M G, Nicholas' newest release. Whew, the multitalented writer brings to you what he does best. Dark, edgy, and sexy.
Colton and (Zaire-love the name) no does it better, until they are pitted against each other and things get tricky and a bit sticky. Ze's past job comes to haunt him. Not that he'd ever back off or back down from doing what he does. The cool attitude, the sexy tones and the job he delivers make him one of if not the best of assassins. Enters Colton, assassin personified. His iciness has made his job top tier, he's never failed to bring it.
The Lords of Chaos is the backdrop for this amazing dark sexy and intense ride. Not your average story by the campfire by no means. But a chance to get to the MC just a bit better.
The game is afoot to say, dippin in the dark laying a trap until the trap is sprung the chemistry hard to deny between two of the most lethal assassins know. How will he get the job done? how will he deny the feelings? Plunge right on in immerse yourself in the Killing Chaos. The killers, primal males one-hundred percent. Enjoy Ze and Colton.
Colton and (Zaire-love the name) no does it better, until they are pitted against each other and things get tricky and a bit sticky. Ze's past job comes to haunt him. Not that he'd ever back off or back down from doing what he does. The cool attitude, the sexy tones and the job he delivers make him one of if not the best of assassins. Enters Colton, assassin personified. His iciness has made his job top tier, he's never failed to bring it.
The Lords of Chaos is the backdrop for this amazing dark sexy and intense ride. Not your average story by the campfire by no means. But a chance to get to the MC just a bit better.
The game is afoot to say, dippin in the dark laying a trap until the trap is sprung the chemistry hard to deny between two of the most lethal assassins know. How will he get the job done? how will he deny the feelings? Plunge right on in immerse yourself in the Killing Chaos. The killers, primal males one-hundred percent. Enjoy Ze and Colton.
October 14, 2022
2.5*
The actual straight-up plot isn't bad. Ze and Colton are interesting characters, and if it was just the two of them, I think I'd have been much more interested in the story.
But there are a few issues.
There are wayyyy too many characters, introduced in quick succession with all their names. It was pretty easy to grasp the main ones (and I particularly like Raven and Wolf!) but there was no time to connect with anyone, which left some of what were clearly supposed to be key emotional moments feeling flat.
The other is pacing. The pacing is all over the place - our MCs don't meet until about 20% into the book and then are in love, and then when it feels like the story should have ended, there are increasing complications that just feel shoehorned in.
I also think there are some writing issues (mainly run-on sentences and POV changes) that can be confusing. Honestly, with a good edit this book would be much stronger.
If you like a really dark (read the TWs!) romance, then it's a decent middling read and not too long, either. Hopefully some of the other issues will be improved upon in later books.
The actual straight-up plot isn't bad. Ze and Colton are interesting characters, and if it was just the two of them, I think I'd have been much more interested in the story.
But there are a few issues.
There are wayyyy too many characters, introduced in quick succession with all their names. It was pretty easy to grasp the main ones (and I particularly like Raven and Wolf!) but there was no time to connect with anyone, which left some of what were clearly supposed to be key emotional moments feeling flat.
The other is pacing. The pacing is all over the place - our MCs don't meet until about 20% into the book and then are in love, and then when it feels like the story should have ended, there are increasing complications that just feel shoehorned in.
I also think there are some writing issues (mainly run-on sentences and POV changes) that can be confusing. Honestly, with a good edit this book would be much stronger.
If you like a really dark (read the TWs!) romance, then it's a decent middling read and not too long, either. Hopefully some of the other issues will be improved upon in later books.
September 29, 2022
Thank you for arc read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Two blood thirsty killers, from opposites sides of Chicago. Is it blood play or goreplay..either why both Cloton and Zaire are totally on board with it. Those that deserve.. Ze is the hand welding the fate dealt from the his club. If Ze really is the skilled man he thinks, when his past to leads to his own life now placed as a target? Ze on a mission to eliminate a target. Dodging one assassination because of a rat, maybe luck was on his side can he dodge another or multiple.
Colton is assigned a target but the biker proves to be more challenge then worthless flesh, the real fun is underway. Watching Zaire inspect his surroundings proved his was a hunt. Ze and Colton was worth the effort, but would the club see it that way, after the trouble Colton pushed on Ze? That is if they don't un-alive either of them first. The end to the threat was prefect, after all the man was a snake, only fair the image fit the package. Also the Prez reaction was.. priceless.
The build up of bloodlust turned foreplay, making both all the more tantalizing a prey. The *Behave* was just hilarious to me, was Ze just to roll over and die happily for Colton! Well we see just why the club had to step in on the whole Zindel fumble.
Colton is assigned a target but the biker proves to be more challenge then worthless flesh, the real fun is underway. Watching Zaire inspect his surroundings proved his was a hunt. Ze and Colton was worth the effort, but would the club see it that way, after the trouble Colton pushed on Ze? That is if they don't un-alive either of them first. The end to the threat was prefect, after all the man was a snake, only fair the image fit the package. Also the Prez reaction was.. priceless.
The build up of bloodlust turned foreplay, making both all the more tantalizing a prey. The *Behave* was just hilarious to me, was Ze just to roll over and die happily for Colton! Well we see just why the club had to step in on the whole Zindel fumble.
October 14, 2022
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I wanted to love this, I really did. And I did love the first half of the book, violence and bloodshed included. The level of these is high, and it pushes right to the edges of my boundaries on that but I liked that it does here, so that wasn't the issue.
The issue for me was, midway through, something changed in the story. It went from really good, to kinda meh and I struggled. I very nearly dumped it, to be honest, but I wanted to see how it would all pan out.
I think, once Ze and Colton come out as a couple, and they do what they need to do to keep Ze safe, it all gets a bit . . .light . . .and fluffy . . .maybe?? It just didn't FEEL right after that, that's what I'm trying to say. It did not work, FOR ME.
But, up to that point, I really enjoyed it, violence and all. And both Ze and Colton have a say, so that was good. I did finish it, so . . .
3 good, but not for me stars
* same worded review will appear elsewhere
I wanted to love this, I really did. And I did love the first half of the book, violence and bloodshed included. The level of these is high, and it pushes right to the edges of my boundaries on that but I liked that it does here, so that wasn't the issue.
The issue for me was, midway through, something changed in the story. It went from really good, to kinda meh and I struggled. I very nearly dumped it, to be honest, but I wanted to see how it would all pan out.
I think, once Ze and Colton come out as a couple, and they do what they need to do to keep Ze safe, it all gets a bit . . .light . . .and fluffy . . .maybe?? It just didn't FEEL right after that, that's what I'm trying to say. It did not work, FOR ME.
But, up to that point, I really enjoyed it, violence and all. And both Ze and Colton have a say, so that was good. I did finish it, so . . .
3 good, but not for me stars
* same worded review will appear elsewhere
October 7, 2022
It’s been a long time since I’ve read Nicholas Bella and at first I had to get used to his writing style again. But once I did I was completely captivated by the story.
The Prologue already lets us know what we’re in for with this book. Blood. Violence. Depravity. And Carnage.
Seriously, if you can’t handle blood and gore, don’t read this.
The story follows Zaire, enforcer of a motorcycle club who has to take out a prominent person. But then one moment he goes from being the hunter, to being the hunted, because he’s now in the crosshairs of a world class assassin.
I liked all the characters, the main ones and the side characters. I loved that Ze and Colton weren’t ashamed of how depraved they are and they except each other just the way they are. Although their love felt a bit insta at times I loved their attraction, their connection and their development.
This is a fast paced, dark, depraved and delicious story and I can’t wait to read more in this series!
The Prologue already lets us know what we’re in for with this book. Blood. Violence. Depravity. And Carnage.
Seriously, if you can’t handle blood and gore, don’t read this.
The story follows Zaire, enforcer of a motorcycle club who has to take out a prominent person. But then one moment he goes from being the hunter, to being the hunted, because he’s now in the crosshairs of a world class assassin.
I liked all the characters, the main ones and the side characters. I loved that Ze and Colton weren’t ashamed of how depraved they are and they except each other just the way they are. Although their love felt a bit insta at times I loved their attraction, their connection and their development.
This is a fast paced, dark, depraved and delicious story and I can’t wait to read more in this series!
October 14, 2022
3.5-4⭐️
This was a pretty fun read, a good option if you are looking for a darker read with great action, bloody violence, and two murder-y MCs with explosive chemistry. I liked seeing some of the inner workings of the Lords of Chaos motorcycle club and all the interesting personalities of the members. Colton is the Tiger, the older and more experienced assassin for his family’s business. Ze is the Cub, the young enforcer for the Lords of Chaos with a propensity for violence and an innate need to kill. It should be hard to like these characters, but I did - and I definitely liked them together! I also enjoyed that Colton’s handler was his mother. This was a creative idea, which added an interesting layer to the plot and even some humor as she assigns his kills while nagging about grandchildren. I enjoyed this addition to the Virtuous Sinners series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This was a pretty fun read, a good option if you are looking for a darker read with great action, bloody violence, and two murder-y MCs with explosive chemistry. I liked seeing some of the inner workings of the Lords of Chaos motorcycle club and all the interesting personalities of the members. Colton is the Tiger, the older and more experienced assassin for his family’s business. Ze is the Cub, the young enforcer for the Lords of Chaos with a propensity for violence and an innate need to kill. It should be hard to like these characters, but I did - and I definitely liked them together! I also enjoyed that Colton’s handler was his mother. This was a creative idea, which added an interesting layer to the plot and even some humor as she assigns his kills while nagging about grandchildren. I enjoyed this addition to the Virtuous Sinners series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 17, 2023
This one started out so good and was so dang hot but I felt like there was maybe too much crammed into a shorter story, this could have easily been a duet on it’s in and gotten a lot more details and story. Plus we had only a couple good steamy scenes and then it stopped. And the killing (what they both have in common) took a big backseat. I get this was a prequel and the author used this book to setup the rest of the series but it felt like a disservice to Ze and Colt. It was like instant connect and everything moved fast without giving a lot for these two. It had potential that fizzled for me at about 60% in. But I still thoroughly enjoyed the story. I really loved Ze and Colt. And I will continue to read the series. I felt it had the potential to be a 5 star tho if it hadn’t been rushed and we got more steam. Again, thoroughly enjoyed it. The first sex scene between Ze and Tigar was hot!
October 3, 2022
Ze is an enforcer for the Lords of Chaos Motorcycle Club and Tiger is an assassin. Both try to kill each other and that turns into passion and sex. This dark book had a lot of violence and Ze loves to torture people. I did find their insta love turned relationship unrealistic but maybe I can't comprehend this level of gruesomeness being attractive. Tiger is very smooth and sophisticated but rough in sexual matters. Ze is good at his job and loves to kill in a bloodthirsty way but submissive in his relationship and seems unstable emotionally like a child. I didn't find much to like in this pair or few redeeming qualities in any of this group. Not my favorite Bella book. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
October 7, 2022
Man of Carnage seemed like a book that would be perfect for me, offering many things that I enjoy. While I can see lots of people enjoying this one, the stylistic choices meant I had a lot of trouble finishing it.
I am a huge hater of head hopping, which is something that this book did a lot of. Whenever new characters were introduced, we seemed to suddenly hop into their thoughts, and it kept pulling me out of the story. When combined with the information dumps, this was one that did not flow in a way that I found easy to enjoy. As I said, however, it’s largely a stylistic choice issue, something that will not be the case for everyone.
All in all, while this that potential, I was not the right reader for it.
I am a huge hater of head hopping, which is something that this book did a lot of. Whenever new characters were introduced, we seemed to suddenly hop into their thoughts, and it kept pulling me out of the story. When combined with the information dumps, this was one that did not flow in a way that I found easy to enjoy. As I said, however, it’s largely a stylistic choice issue, something that will not be the case for everyone.
All in all, while this that potential, I was not the right reader for it.
September 29, 2022
Show no mercy
“‘I may be a monster, but I’m the monster other monsters fear. I am a Man of Carnage.’” Eeek!! I love this hard-hitting series full of morally dangerous men, especially because Ze has met the most perfect match in the equally dangerous—I’d argue, more so—Colton. They’re amazing and pure fire together. From the way they don’t hide anything to their smoking hot fight scenes, it’s so combustible, your kindle may need an ice bath. Plus it’s exciting getting a glimpse into the history of the MC and how things came to be. I love the violence, the gritty undertones, and these lethal men who I’m happy to say are a true danger to my heart. I’m a goner for them all.
“‘I may be a monster, but I’m the monster other monsters fear. I am a Man of Carnage.’” Eeek!! I love this hard-hitting series full of morally dangerous men, especially because Ze has met the most perfect match in the equally dangerous—I’d argue, more so—Colton. They’re amazing and pure fire together. From the way they don’t hide anything to their smoking hot fight scenes, it’s so combustible, your kindle may need an ice bath. Plus it’s exciting getting a glimpse into the history of the MC and how things came to be. I love the violence, the gritty undertones, and these lethal men who I’m happy to say are a true danger to my heart. I’m a goner for them all.
December 6, 2022
I liked the idea : an assassin chasing an other assassin. I liked the first chapters, and then everything went down hill after the first face-to-face encounter.
This book is a prequel of an existing serie. It looks like the author cramed everything that happened before the series into this prequel. But it was not always relevant for our MCs.
The parts about Ke's brother were too detailed while the feelings between the MCs were not. The story jumped from one sex scene (which I definitely liked) to "I can't live without u", and nothing in between.
The story should have stopped after the first "eleven months later". It would have been a great epilogue for Ke and Colton.
This book is a prequel of an existing serie. It looks like the author cramed everything that happened before the series into this prequel. But it was not always relevant for our MCs.
The parts about Ke's brother were too detailed while the feelings between the MCs were not. The story jumped from one sex scene (which I definitely liked) to "I can't live without u", and nothing in between.
The story should have stopped after the first "eleven months later". It would have been a great epilogue for Ke and Colton.
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