Type of read: Commuter Read.

What made me pick it up: I stumbled across the Black Dagger Brotherhood in early 2024 with Darius (Book 0) and I got sucked into this crazy, cracked-out world of sexy, throwback feeling, world of vampires fighting something more evil than themselves.

Overall rating: Why do I find myself sucked into this absolutely ridiculous series!?!?!?!?! First, I have to start by saying that I didn't know what I needed in my life was more Rhage, but I'm not complaining. Second, for as cheesy and ridiculous as this series is in certain moments, you can tell that Ward is a true craftsperson with writing. The interconnectedness of each book so far, the backstories, the world-building, it's all honestly incredible. Am I saying that there are not some cringe moments? No. There are most definitely cringe moments. But, in a world of BookTok, quick/self-published romantasy, it's amazing to pick up a series (even if it feels like a dated series) and have fully thought-out storylines, worlds, and characters. And don't even get me started on the proper grammar and spelling. That alone is enough to get a girl going. 😜 I do wish we learned more about John and his journey,

especially since he's somewhat of a catalyst for the majority of the plot in 'Lover Eternal,'

but I know that his time (and book) is coming. I also really enjoyed that we get a sneak peek into the next book in the series with the Zsadist/Bella entanglement. Ward knew what they were doing. Bring on the vampires, I'm officially sucked in.

Reader's Note: 'Lover Eternal' includes themes of death, dying, sexual assault including rape, physical assault, stalking, and consensual sex.