SQUUUEEEE! I literally thanked sweet baby Jesus when I received the email saying I'd been approved for an early read of Consent! After finishing Dubious, I lied back, let out the biggest sigh.. then growled. What the hell was I going to do whilst waiting for the second part!? Well, jokes on me cuz apparently someone out there loves me; I was sent a copy!
Right, so Consent literally picks up straight where Dubious left off, like to the actual minute. I love that! There's no annoying time gap where you're left thinking you stepped into a freaking time machine & now you're in another universe, questioning whether the book you thought was a follow on actually is!? Well, with this one you definitely didn't just start reading a whole different series!
Dubious gives you a sneak peak at the first chapter of Consent. I read it before, but I obviously swallowed it whole again! Gabriel is trying desperately to find Valentina. She has grabbed her brother, Charlie & they've done a runner! See, I told you it picks up straight after Dubious! :D Don't panic though, it does not take long for the story to move on at a calm, respectable pace.
There's one thing that's just niggling at me.. it really bothers me that Valentina in one breath says she hates Gabriel. It's clear she doesn't mean it & she's putting on a front. Understandable. Here's what bugs me though.. stick to your guns, girl! In one scene, five seconds after the 'I hate you' speech, Gabriel carries her upstairs. She's already wet for him & they get it on. No. Just no. I mean, she could at least pretend that she actually does hate the guy & maybe try to fight him off or something? I've never been pregnant & fallen in love with the dude that's keeping me against my will, so I obviously don't have a very objective view on this. I just wish Valentina would grow a back bone & stick up for herself, instead of just rolling over & being all, 'yes, Sir.' all the time! It's like they were both pretending to hate each other, just cuz Gabriel couldn't get his head out of his ass long enough to tell Valentina how he really felt.
The plot of this entire story is so complex. In fact, at one point I stopped & realised I hadn't taken any notes on the last 10 chapters I'd read! Good job I still have my memory & I think this book is going to stick with me for a long while! There are unexpected deaths & near deaths! There's changes of heart, changes of plans, raw romance, unanswered questions finally answered, twists & turns & so much more! I think I've given away far too much already, though!
The epilogue, although quite short, I felt covered everything that it needed to. I'm glad it wasn't just pointless rambling. Short, sharp & hella sweet!
Everyone seriously needs to read these books. They are ahhmazing!
Thank you so much for this early copy!

The exciting conclusion of Gabriel and Valentina! I simply devoured this book late into the night desperate for any details on what happened and how their love survived. Valentina is a strong woman who cares for those around her and does what she can to protect Charlie and her unborn child. Questions are finally answered that will throw your emotions through a roller coaster. Gabriel will do anything to protect his family and ensure her safety due to his numerous enemies. All that matters is that Valentina is never touched by the violence that had consumed his everyday life. Loved Consent and how Charmaine Pauls draws you in a page at a time!

an okay story for the most part. Good plot. interesting

This was a exciting Duet! The first book hooked me. The second was just as great if not better. Val is the girl who has though every wrong that can go on in her young life. Parents die, big brother in car accident with had brain damage, and more that goes on to make these two books so addicting.

As the this book comes along Gabriel finely figured out how his greed, selfishness, and mother ruined his life. He puts all his wants and need aside for Valentina. At the end of this book become not so dark of a romance. Not what ending I would have in mind for this couple, but I'm not the writer. I still loved the story anyway.

Wow, wow, wow
Totally loved this second instalment. You just need to read it & make sure you read book one. This second book was amazing. I'm in love with these characters.

I felt bereft as I finished Dubious as I loved the book and also loved the characters of Gabriel and Valentina. I have been lucky enough to have an advanced copy and Im at that stage where you cannot speak to anyone because you just want to revel in the story once you have finished it.
The interplay between Gabriel and Valentina and the complexity of a relationship built on lies and power is challenged much more by so many revelations within this book.
There are so many twists and turns in this book that the history of both main characters explains so much of what occurred in the first book.
Magda is as big a witch as you expect.
There is sadness and laughter in this book and quite often with Quincy and Rhett i had a big smile on my face.
You will need a fan for the more intimate scenes.
These two books are my first introduction to Charmaine Pauls and I am hooked.
Thanks to NetGalley,the publisher and the author for the opportunity to review and devour early.
5 stars

excellent read

Wow did I love these two books! What a great love story. I couldn't stop reading this book! Loved the ending!

I still find the premise of the story very slightly disturbing with its kind of stockholm syndrome, but at the same time the characters were already attracted to each other and Gabriels upbringing wouldn't exactly have had him mentally sound. It was a great summer read. Thanks

A roller coaster of emotions...

I honestly feel very sad to see the series come to an end, I found it really hard to "extract" myself from Gabriel's and Valentina's world cause I adored both characters and especially the plot.

One thing for sure is that all your questions are going to be answered in this part...

The author has outdone herself (as always) with the finale.. so many things are happening, blow-minding twists, explosive secrets will be revealed, emotions are all over the place... sadness, happiness then sadness again and after that, you feel angry and then again happy... as I said a roller-coaster of emotions!

Besides Gabriel and Valentina, I adored, even more, Charlie and of course in this part, I fell in love with both Rhett and Quincy.. never thought that these well trained/deadly guards will become such sweet and supported guys!!!

In this review, I have to be even more careful than the first one cause the whole book contains many spoilers and many wow facts and scenes than the first one. The characters developed steadily throughout the story and you can definitely see the differences from the first part. I want to thank Mrs. Pauls for providing me the ARCs and I can't wait to read the next great story she is going to create!

Be sure to have a box of Kleenex handy if you're reading this one - it was one emotional ride, but I loved every minute of it (mostly). If you're on the fence about this 2-part series, don't be. Read it already! It's dark and mysterious, but the love and warmth you feel in the end is so worth it.

This one picks up where the first book ended and hopefully you've read that one since the next line is a spoiler from the first book. Valentina has left Gabriel and is on the run. Once she found out that she was pregnant, she was afraid for her and her baby's life, thinking that Gabriel would be upset and think she intentionally got pregnant. Of course, we know the truth behind it all, but she doesn't. He spends months looking for her before finally finding her in a desperate situation. I appreciated the strength Val had through all this and Gabriel's never-ending dedication to finding her, but it took way too long to make that happen in my opinion. Of course, that only made things more suspenseful.

Once they're reunited, things move very quickly for the couple. But it's what Gabriel must do to protect her. Amidst all this, tragedy strikes Gabriel's family and I was honestly stunned and heartbroken. This part of the book was just tough to take. Because of this tragedy, Gabriel withdraws and at this point I really hate him. He's neglecting his baby and Val and it goes on for way too long. I was heartbroken for Valentina and understood that Gabriel was just suffering from grief, but he took it too far.

When he finally does come to his senses, it's nearly too late. He ends up making a big sacrifice to help make his new family happy and I wasn't quite expecting that twist. But of course it all works out in the end. I loved Gabriel in the end and respected his decisions. It only made them both stronger and helped them build an honest living.

The last 10% of the book was sweet and I loved how his relationship with Valentina grew into an honest and loving relationship. The epilogue was awesome and made the angst we suffered through most of the book worth the wait.

This was a fantastic conclusion to this duet series. There were more twists and turns in this story and shocking parts I never say coming. Valentina took a lot of blow back from everything that happened and even though none of it was her fault Magda and Sylvia had it out for her. However, Magda isn't as strong when dealing with pressure; she couldn't handle it. Gabriel made the ultimate sacrifice but in the end Valentina got what she deserved and I was completely satisfied with the ending and this series. I look forward to my next read from this author and I recommend this book to all readers but beware that there are dark subject matters within these books.

4 "I didn't say I love you" stars
Consent is not a standalone and I feel like I should have been asked for consent before I jumped into this wild book.
consent takes back up the second Dubious ends.

" the embrace is what he offers. this is his answer. he wont set me free. what I get in return for love is a consolation hug "
"He covers my clit with his lips and sucks me through the orgasm until I'm trembling with aftershocks. "

"Touch yourself he commands. I find my clit and rub while he fucks me with his fingers and cock. I'm not cognizant of time or place, only of him and our bodies as he pushes me to the darkest of pleasures, to a point no one should go. he fucks me into floating bliss, always pushing the boundary to physical highs. I'm frightened I wont survive but somehow always do. And he is right there with me as he curses and cries out his climax. coming inside me while driving me past my limits and beyond, he makes me lose myself in the best and worst way possible. "

This story continues with what Valentina does after finding out (view spoiler) You can start feeling the pain Gabriel is experiencing with the loss of Valentina, you hurt for Valentina and somehow you hurt for yourself. You can taste the desperation, the will to live and the poverty hanging in the air. You start getting answers to all of book 1's puzzle pieces with an intense shock in chapter 15 that boils my blood and makes you want to punch a wall.


after two books I am glad I get to say good bye Magda because boy is she a bitch

no one in book 2 stays the same person book 1 made them out to be.. this book is filled with wrenches that change the course of every characters fate and really makes you realize that love is an ugly beautiful thing.

this book can and may bring you to tears easily with the potential triggers of : [attempted suicide, suicide, murder, BSDM elements and pregnancy.

All I can say is Thank God I was given the opportunity to read both the first book in this story and this sequel at the same time because I don't think I could have survived the waiting. The first book in this story was hot and this follow up was pure fire. The brokeness of Gabriel and Valentina runs so deep that they are both drowning and can only cling to each other for survival while at the same time running as far as they can get from the love they so obviously crave and need. If you are looking for a different kind of love story with great sex and a twist of sadism then this is for you. The lines become very blurred on who is the villain of the story and who is the knight in shining Armour that we girls so often dream about. The same people who you detested in the first book began to sneak into your heart and sucker puck you when you least expect it. This is definitely worth the time to read.

Consent
The Loan Shark Duet #2
Charmaine Pauls
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is the conclusion to Valentina and Gabriel's story. This has been a pretty dark romance including some bdsm. This has been a crazy story from beginning to end. I became super involved in this story and couldn't stop reading. I had to find out how it was gonna end.

Thanks NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.

Loved how the heroine stayed strong to the end. The story was wrapped up and the author gave it attention it needed and did not rush it. Loved it!

WoW!! It was a book filled with surprising events in the continuation of Gabriel and Valentina. A real roller coaster of emotion.

This part shows the strength that I did not expect to find in Valentina. This girl survived so much. And another blows inflicted by fate, do not break her.

I really like such heroines. I am all for girl power and all this stuff.

So, for me this book was Valentina's book. I couldn't wait to see her reactions, I wanted to know what she will do next, what she will feel.

Charmaine Pauls definitely did not disappoint me. The entire series was interesting, surprising and addictive, with strong main characters entangled in a web of unforeseen affairs.

Amazing!! Great finish to the story. I am truly hooked and looking forward to more!!

Amazing read! Loved every bit of it from start to finish

Wow, I loved the conclusion of this duet. Again, it's not for everyone. But I loved it. There were so many twists and turns and shocks to my system. None of which I can say here without spoiling!

This is the conclusion and second part of Valentina and Gabriel's story. If you haven't read book 1, you must read that before reading this story.

(view spoiler)You get resolution to all the mysteries from book 1 and Pauls intense, can't-put-down, engrossing writing. Did I mention shocks to my system? Revelations I did not see coming! This book was a rollercoaster! And I loved every minute of it.

If you read Book 1, this is a MUST unless you're very masochistic!

Fair warning: This book is filled with intense sex scenes, BDSM, including sadomasochism, plays with and focuses on the concept of consent.

This book book was generously provided to me by NetGalley and the Publisher for an honest review.

A great steamy smoking hot romance book that will leave you breathless and wanting more from this author. Gab and Val will make you feel their pain and their love. Twisted bug in a great way. Need more

A book with unexpected twists. And a very fine ending, that feels like it concludes the story, without "closing" Valentinas and Gabriels lives. I would absolutely recommend this for any romance and erotica fan out there! Just remember to read Dubious first.
The two books are wellwritten, giving a good look into the main characters motivation and thoughts, without that pesky feeling of trying to explain every little detail.
For me, both the locale and the forced seduction was a first, but Dubious and Consent certainly made me want to read more of both.

4.5*

This is part two Dubious has to be read first and the same goes for this review.

So Consent picks up exactly where Dubious left off. Valentina is scared and running but her fear overruled her common sense, she grabbed Charlie and ran not giving a single thought to money. Now it's too late, if she withdraws any money she'll give away their location and so she finds herself alone with Charlie, no money, no where to live and no job.

Gabriel is beside himself and desperate to find Valentina but he's not the only one searching for her Magda now has the excuse she needs to kill her.

We know it's only a matter of time before they're reunited but the question is what will happen then?

I only really had two small issues (and they are very small) with this book the first was Valentina not considering how she'd live once she ran (yes I know there's extenuating circumstances) and the second was the tragedy, Gabriel gets lost in himself and while I understood and sympathised I felt it went on just a little too long for me but it's difficult to imagine how someone would deal with that so...

This book has a load of stuff going on and I'm not even going to attempt to touch any of it (so no spoilers here) you need to find out for yourself as you're reading. It twists and turns some of which I saw coming some I didn't and it certainly kept me glued the whole way through.

It's a fabulous book (well two books) and the author has created characters I'll never forget, it's clever and interesting and I'm still a little surprised by how much I actually enjoyed it.

I'm all about the HEA and so I loved the ending for me it was perfect, the icing on the cake and I'll be looking out for other books from this author but....

I'm mentioning this only because I have friends who don't feel the same way. Dubious started as a dark read, Gabriel was a powerful and dominating man (although we always knew Valentina was his weakness) but in Consent he changes, the tragedy he suffers affects him greatly and he becomes a different man. I liked this change, I liked him and just about everything about this book but if, like my friends you like a man to stay dark and true throughout then this maybe isn't the book for you.

For the rest of us who love a great HEA then start reading now.

I very rarely give 5* but again this came very very close.

I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley and Charmaine Pauls.

I really enjoyed this Duet of books. The characters were well developed. They were flawed, yet each changed. I really really loved it and cannot wait to read more by this author. I devoured these books!

A fantastic conclusion to the 1st part of the story (Dubious). I was still glued to every page. You could tell where the story was heading and certain things happened in the story to help the story along. Still very enjoyable.

5 stars. This was such an emotional ending to the duology and I loved every heart stopping moment of it. While the first book was a lot darker and heavier in subject matter, this one was really damn sad. Beautiful ending, but sad nonetheless. I can’t decide which book I loved more, they were both so fantastic!

This picks up exactly where <i>Dubious</i> leaves off and the beginning half of this novel had me on edge because I was terrified of how everything would turn out. Just when I thought the author was going to take the story one way, she threw a curve ball and took it in a completely different direction and I couldn’t keep up. The ending was nothing how I thought it was going to be and I loved it. It could’ve easily came off as cheesy but I think she handled it really well.

The character development in this series was so on point. Valentina from book one to the end was such an amazing transformation. I’m proud of the person she became and how life ended up for her. She’s incredibly strong but yet still so beautifully flawed.

Gabriel’s character made my heart ache. The things he went through were just devastating and seeing how much everything changed him was great. I felt for him and just wanted to hug him the entire time. The things he did were never justified but his redemption was worth it.

I think both characters got the most perfect ending for them. I really couldn’t imagine it ending any other way than what it did.

I also really like that we got to see a lot more of the side characters such as Rhett, Quincy, Kris and Charlie. They were a great and lovable cast of characters and I loved getting to know them more.

Overall, this was a beautifully dark series and I look forward to reading more from this author.

After reading the first instalment in this ‘The Loan Shark Duet’ I was eager to read what happened next and I wasn’t disappointed. ‘Consent’ by Charmaine Pauls was a brilliant end to the series and a four star read.

Gabriel and Valentina’s story literally continues on from where things left off in book one. Thinking that Gabriel would be angry with her Valentina is on the run but having giving little thought to how she will survive Valentina finds herself quite desperate. After searching for her Gabriel finds her and brings her home.

The characters in this definitely evolve from the characters they were when we first met them in the first book and it was great to see. Full of twists and turns, some expected but some not this book keeps you engaged and enthralled right up to the last word. This was a great duet by Charmaine Pauls and she gave a brilliant conclusion to Gabriel and Valentina’s story. For me it cemented how much I enjoy the writing of Charmaine Pauls.

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This author shines writing erotic romance especially with the backdrop of the mob lifestyle, which I love!
-----
I had to add to this review after I thought about this book for a few days. Charmaine needs to write erotic suspense exclusively. Her other books are wonderful but I was BLOWN away by 'Consent'. I loved that regardless of how emotionally stunted Gabriel was he always had some show of tenderness towards Valentina. There was nothing overdone or eye roll worthy which I find happens a lot when I'm reading other authors. So best part - once I finish reading 'Consent' I rush to amazon to see when book 2 is released and to my dismay THIS one doesn't come out until October! So I go to netgalley to see if there's a release date for book 2 and Christmas came early this year!!!!! I looked up the books penned by Ms.Paul and found book 2!(Dubious) . Seriously made my day, I could've never waited, not even until October. Ok I'm done rambling.

Bottom line: there needs to be more erotic suspense authors like Charmaine. I ate this up, I haven't been this giddy over a book in a long time.

Kindly provided with an ARC via the Author and Netgalley in Exchange for an Honest Review.......

Oooh I sooo wanted the next part of this read and I was VERY happy with the outcome !!!
Consent continues Gabriel and Valentina's story. Valentina's taken off and Gabriel's HOT on her heels and NO is NOT in his vocabulary !!!. I loved reading about Charlie, Quincy and Rhett as back characters as I think of them but who are all integral to the plot. Valentina is such a strong, feisty character who wants to show the world she can survive and stand on her own two feet. Then the next breath she is putty in Gabriel's hands *sighs and swoons*.

This was such a edgy, dark, emotional but beautiful read. I just LOVE Charmaine's work and this finale to The Loan Shark Duet did not disappoint me as a reader and a fan !!. I would recommend Charmaine's books to any and all !

Massive Thumbs Up Charmaine ! If only if only Gabriel was real !!!!!!

Many thanks for the opportunity xx

Later peeps xxx

Arc provided in exchange for honest review from Netgalley

I absolutely loved both books! Consent, the second book of Loan Shark Duet was an emotional roller coaster ride! This book was just as good if not better than the first in the set. The ups and downs kept me reading and not wanting to put the book down or for it to End!! I adored both Valentina and Gabriel and how their twisted beginning turned into something they both could not live without. Despite the sad parts, Consent was an exceptional ending to this fantastic story.

I didn't like this second book as much as the first one,but Charmaine Paul clearly got a new fan I can't wait to see what she's going to do next

Well Charmaine has done it again! You have once again sucked me into the world of Val and Gabriel and I couldn't get enough. The plot twist in this story kept you guessing what was going to happen next and at one point and you know where I wanted to throw the book down and scream NOOO this is not happening! I can't wait for your next book to come out!!

This book was just as good as part 1 and only builds on the developing story. I would definitely read more books by this author.

Get out the tissues. You will need them for this conclusion to Gabriel and Valentina’s story. This story runs the gamut of emotions. I was furious, excited, sad, hopeful and happy. I wanted to throw the book at the wall a couple of times with Gabriel and whole attitude. Valentina lives through more in a year than anyone should have to live through. Can this woman catch a break? I love how she never gives up and it pays off in the end. Yeah, still crying…..but tears of joy.

I really liked this read. There are plots and twists that you know are coming, but don't see THAT happening!! I mean what gives??!!?? Sooo worth the read. The plot twisting itself is worth it! Great job and great read!! Gabriel and Magda with their relationship! I knew Magda was mean, but that woman I really really really despised! There is so much that happens. Must read series!!

I received this E-ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest opinion. Thank you Net Galley!!

The end to Gabriel and Valentina's story has so many twists, turns, deaths and mystery that it is completely unexpected. Surviving isn't enough anymore. Valentina is in love with her domineering, controlling, tormenting, protective, doting husband. Caught up in an expected pregnancy, she runs from Gabriel and the darkness that he promises. She is certain he doesn't want their baby. He impregnated her in order to save her life. He is completely captured by her. She is in love with him. She knows he won't believe her until she is free and can repeat the words willingly. Then the unexpected happens. The truth about her attack finally comes out. The villains and the length of their betrayal turn everything inside Gabriel dark. He wants revenge. She wants to start over. There is nothing Gabriel won't do for her... Consent is intense, unexpected, heartbreaking, filled with sadness and hope. She knows the truth in her heart and she won't stop until she gets back everything she lost. A new woman arises from the ashes. She is determined to provide for her family, to keep them safe, and to find Gabriel. I loved consent and the HEA that they both deserved.

I loved the first book, Dubious, and was very excited to read this one. It did not disappoint!
These characters attached to my heart and did not let go. I loved them from the first book, and they kept their character and opinions through the series.
I highly recommend this book if you like erotic and alpha men!

Consent is the second half of Charmaine Pauls’ Johannesburg underworld The Loan Shark Duology, which focuses on the complex relationship between Gabriel Louw, a powerful mafioso, and Valentina Haynes, the young woman who sells herself to him to pay off her brother’s debt. By the end of the first book Dubious it’s clear that both parties feel more than lust, but when you’ve been brought together by violence and obligation how can you transform your bond to something pure and worthy of protecting?

It’s very hard for me to talk about the events in Consent without spoiling almost everything from the end of Dubious, which is a major plot point to the cliffhanger. I can only say that Gabriel and Valentina are together in book two (it wouldn’t be much of an erotic romance if the main couple became permanently separated now would it), but the plot buys a ticket to Hardcore Crazy Town. If you love the type of twists that crop up in daytime soaps or can at least appreciate them Consent is totally your catnip. I, on the other hand, rolled my eyes so hard they clacked in the back of my head when a presumed faked death occurred, and I was holding my head in my hands by the final pages.

While it’s a minor spoiler Pauls delivers a HEA; it’s just not quite how you’d expect it (Valentina also manages to turn into Too Perfect to Be Real TM, which she bordered on in Dubious but had enough slight faults to avoid). Somehow I plowed through book two despite my disbelief in the sheer amount of crazy sauce delivered (to borrow a term from Smart Bitches, Trashy Books), and I enjoyed the ending even though it left me a little underwhelmed. I wanted a dark, gritty ending for a pair of flawed, damaged people; that isn’t where Charmaine Pauls wanted her characters to end up. If you like fairy tale finales I think you’ll find it sweet and touching, and Consent will be a much easier read that book one.

3 Fire Damaged Wedding Rings out of 5

Valentina ends up pregnant and is afraid Gabriel will make her have an abortion. She runs away with her brother. Gabriel finds her before his mother's goons find her. The journey is a difficult one.

I love me a wild read that’s an emotional roller coaster with some kinky sex. This is that kind of book. I didn’t want to read it and have been holding onto it for a while not wanting this to be the end, but isn’t that always the case with the books you love and obsess about they end too soon.

I was given an ARC for my honest review.

Received an ARC of Consent by Charmaine Pauls in exchange for an honest review

This book is the second in a duet so you do need to read the first Dubious before diving into this AMAZING story !!!!!

Let me begin by saying how talented Charmaine Pauls is as a writer. This book not only touched my heart but my soul as well - there are several places where I found myself thinking how does this author know how to convey exactly what it feels like for example to be devastated by a loved ones suicide or to be a character that should be so broken by all that has happened & yet always maintain a positive attitude & outlook ....

A few spoilers ahead but they do not give the story away .... Consent starts with Valentina on the run however after exhausting almost all his resources Gabriel does find her bringing her back to live with him where he discovers she is still pregnant with his child. Their story has a number of plot twists & some very unexpected events occur not only for the 2 main characters but also for the secondary characters as well ...

If I rate both book together they are easily 10+ Stars !!! All the details and loose ends are tied up very well in this book with the very important - significance of finding a wedding band ( I won't tell you who's )

This book is captivating - romantic - sexy & you just can't put it down !!! There is an amazing HEA that stays with you ... for me am amazing book is one I would definitely re-read again & again & again keeping with my favorites of all time ! Consent is easily both ✅ It serves as a reminder that true love is always meant to be ❤️❤️

Wooooooooooo! What a wild ride of emotions. I literally could not put it down. I read the whole thing in 24 hours I was so taken by this story and the characters. I have to say this book has given me all of the emotions. Every single one. I have so thoroughly enjoyed these books. Such an amazing story. These books were the first read from this author and they will FOR SURE not be my last. BEST BEST BEST possible end to the story in my opinion. It is going to be hard for me to find another book the way I have enjoyed this one.

I very highly recommend this book to EVERYONE!

So You Must Read the First Book Dubious BEFORE reading this as it is the second part of a Duet and the first book is a Cliffhanger! So Two full Novels, please read in order, or else you are going to be out in left field! Also this is def for 18 yrs and older so be advised, Hot Sex is involved, Nothing that should trigger problems as nothing is ever forced!

Oh Goodness very good storytelling by Charmaine Paul's! She brings you to the brink of thinking you might know something is about to happen and well she spins the corkscrew round and round some more and bam then she lets the string bounce your backwards...I truly loved Valentina, Charlie and Kris and yes even Gabriel and SOME of the side characters grow on ya! Oh something that happens with Charlie and then Valentina is just a wowzer, I was so damn mad....

It is a great love story though and it has a lot of very sad parts to it, and it has people intertwined more than you would have Ever Imagined! The things that happen just make you shake your head and wonder what the hell is wrong with people, regardless of were they live in the country, a gross perverted darkness can grow and fester inside of some people, people you know can be bad but you just never think they can truly be so Dark inside and it makes you wonder what happened in their young lives or yet if it is/was always about Money! Some people show true colors and some like to blend and live into the Grey and to me the worst are those lying blenders....

Gabriel who I do not even think of as The Breaker now, he has been so hurt in life that it just made him Hard as Hell! He truly does try to be as decent a sort of a man to Valentina that he can be in his mothers home. He figures out some secrets she has but not all of them as does Val, but she gets to be so trusting because her body betrays her, she does learn that a woman's body can be trained to Want and want it does! She learns that she got one mighty fine teacher and it is Hot, as in 18 yrs and older advised hot

Gabriel has been led through life to dovery terribly bad and scrupulous things in life and well he is not just Hard as a Shell and he is deeply scarred from it as well. As big a man as he is he has had many things happen to him physically. I am not spoiling those because they belong to this wonderful storyteller to tell you, how he gets them, about an ex wife and their daughter Carly who is well spoiled as she is the only thing not tainted in Gabriels life and her mother, well lets just say her and Magda are two pees in a pod...they are they type of women that get what they want and they want money and that is exactly how they are trying to raise Carly and as a teenager that's lived with her dad she comes to not appreciate her dads rules anymore and well you will learn all about Carly and her momma and well everyone!

And I will be looking forward to other books by Charmaine Pauls as this was my first time reading this authors wonderful work. I thank the author for giving me a chance to read BOTH ebook Advance Copies of this Duet for my honest review I truly enjoyed every minute and I went from one book right into the other the anticipation was Oh so worth it! I know the release of these two will be close so do not fear the cliffhanger it's so worth it, I promise!!! At least it isn't months in between, I have never been given a completes Duet to review and I love that they were finished, she had this thought out well!!! I also thank NetGalley! And I am telling ya folks if you love a Dark Suspenseful Romance, well you Need to read this book, it is Great, Bravo Charmaine Pauls I Loved it!
This book had me so very twisted and torn up and times, you will probably need tissues and might want to throw your Kindle a few times!

This is an author that I am going to follow! I loved this book. I am a huge fan of dark erotica and this was perfect. The characters were well developed and believable. If I were going to make any criticism it would be that the introduction needed to include a bit more background and context of the setting. Other than that, I really enjoyed this book!

I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. I did not think I would like the book but the story caught my attention from the beginning and held it until the very end. Gabriel is Mafia and he has possession of Valentina as payment for a debt. He becomes obsessed with her and then comes to love her. She loves him but he can't believe she could love him after what he has done to her. The sexual content is explicit but a good read. There is a HEA but a lot happens before this comes about. I definitely will read some of Pauls other books because if they are like this one, they will keep your attention and entertained. I would recommend this book.

The finale is magnifisent.A lot of secrets were revealed.I had dreams and a future and now all I have fears, scars, and insatiable needs. I’m damaged beyond repair. I can’t allow him to break me.The author has out done her self.The book is amazing.When I started reading I couldn't put it down.When I started reading I couldn't put it down. I didn't think I could fall more in love with Gabriel, but I did. This was the perfect conclusion to Valentina and Gabriel's story.
I received a copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Wow the second in the series and did not disappoint! I look forward to more! It was hot and sexy ! Terrific read !!

“Every living being fights for one thing. Freedom. I claimed a woman and took that away from her. Instead of putting her in a cage, I clipped her wings to prevent her from flying away. In time, some caged creatures are tamed. Some remain wild forever.”

Gah, after the cliffy in Dubious I wasn’t sure which way this book was going to go. Without giving too much away, I will say that I’m glad the beginning of this book didn’t drag it out. The book was well paced and had loads going on, but well proportioned. I didn’t feel like there was too much going on and not once did I find my mind wandering. This author has kept my hooked throughout both books in the duet and I will definitely be going to download some more of her books when I’ve finished writing this.

It’s hard to write a review on a second book without giving anything away, so I’m not going to go into any of the book content.

I will say Gabriel for the win! Yum! New fave!

“I set my kitten free, and she came back to me.”

*copy received via netgalley*

This was a fun, unpredictable and sexy read. I enjoyed it, and am really in love with the whole series. Can't wait for more!

The journey of Gabriel and Valentina was one i have never read before. Their story was so emotional, sexy,and nail biting. I couldn't stop reading and wanting more of it. I wish everyone could experience the love and connection these characters had for each other, it was heartbreaking. I truly loved Valentina's character of being so strong through everything in her life. Her caring nature and bond with her brother was just amazing. Even though Gabriel was darkness he became so much more in the story and I really enjoyed reading how his character developed. I do have to say the banter between the bodyguards was so funny at times, their adoration for Valentina was so sweet. I would love to read this book all over again for the first time it was definitely a more than 5 star rating for me.

Consent, Part 2 of The Loan Shark Duet, must be read after its twin, Dubious. It picks up where the Dubious cliffhanger leaves off.

Valentina Haynes is unexpectedly pregnant and terrified of what’s going to happen to her and her baby. She and her brother, Charlie, are on the run from the devil, with no money, no hope, and nowhere to turn.

She doesn’t know what Gabriel Louws did to her. She doesn’t know the lengths to which he would go to keep her alive. She also doesn’t know how deep-seated Magda Louws’ hatred for her goes.

In this fast-paced, exciting, thrilling, and emotional conclusion to Valentina and Gabriel’s story we are gifted with a display of Charmaine Pauls magnificent range. There were mundane moments brought to vibrancy by the description of street food that makes your mouth water along with the characters’. There were quiet scenes that solidify in your memory with the visual beauty of a moonlit night. There is laughter hidden inside circumstances where grief is unbearably pressing down on your shoulders. There were moments when I experienced suspense so intense that I was stumbling over the words that I was reading too fast.

I can’t tell you too much because the surprises and the ups and downs are what make Consent such a masterpiece. Suffice it to say, Valentina and Gabriel suffer much more torment before redemption is possible. But watching their transformation into the beautiful creatures they are meant to be is sublime!

*This is my sincere review of a NetGalley ARC.*

I was given an ARC for a honest review. I loved the first book and the 2nd book is just as good. It continues right where Dubious left off. The first part of the book was so tense.....where Valentina and Charlie are in dire straits. I felt the danger in their situation. There was a lot of drama in this book. At one point I was like "what now!" Valentina's past is finally explained and what a doozy! I have to admit the reason for her rape seemed slightly far-fetched. Also near the end, I felt Gabriel should have been more prepared regarding the financial situation when he "left". After all he handled the finances in the loan shark business. Also Gabriel's time in the hospital didn't make sense....why didn't he do that before? The ending was happy but slightly bittersweet because I felt both his loyal bodyguards, Rhett and Quincy deserved the truth. In the end, I loved the conclusion to the duet!

This is the second of a two part series. It's a bit of a dark romance as the alpha male takes the girl as a sort of prize, so she is prisoner as the story starts in the first book. The second is worth the wait and the ending is everything you'd want. This is a good author and I will look for her next books.

If you enjoyed "Dubious", the first book in the Loan Sharks series, then you are absolutely going to love "Consent". This series truly has it all. Where the first book was dark and intense, the second book gives us more inside into Valentina and Gabriel's history. Don't get me wrong, there is still a lot of angst, not to mention some dominance/submission, but it is also very emotional and deep. Reading this book, you feel like you are watching an epic romance movie. The kind of movie that has it all. A physically scarred hero and an emotionally scarred heroine. A heroine, who in time grows from a timid yet determined young woman into a woman who is fiercely independent and able to take on the world. And a fierce and cold hero, who turns into a passionate and loving man.

"Consent" answers all the questions that rose with the first book of the series. The man/men behind Valentina's attack and the reason for Charlie's brain damage. Why Magda is so interested in the Haynes siblings and whether she will finally give up her quest to get rid of them. What will become of Valentina's pregnancy and how it will effect her and Gabriel's relationship? With a whole lot of twists on the way, all our questions will finally be answered!

I have read hundreds of romance novels and I must admit that although I have many that I have loved and enjoyed, there aren't many that are truly memorable. This series, however, is one that I won't be able to forget. The hero and heroine are remarkable. There are many fictional couples who claim to be destined or even soulmates, but Gabriel and Valentina give a whole new meaning to the word. They may have started their relationship in less than ideal circumstances, but what they experience and what they feel for one another is so intense and passionate that you literally feel the heat. This is one series that you never want to finish and hope that it is turned into a movie so that you can witness this story over and over again. A stunning read!!!

3.75 stars
So, this whole package delivered by Miss Charmaine Pauls was astounding at best. I mean I did not see that ending coming at all. This book started where the previous one ended on a cliffhanger and Thank God for that. Also, I didn’t have to wait for reading this one, which was a bonus. Otherwise I sure had scratched my eyes out in anticipation.
All the characters remained same along with few minor additions or subtractions as well (May those souls rest in peace!). The little suspense element got solved with yet other problems rising. The writing remains fluid and easy to read. According to me, the ending was little over the top but then, dramatics won’t hurt. The plus point was that I didn’t saw this duet getting this much of my interest. In the future, I’ll definitely like to read other works of Ms. Pauls.

Great continuation of Dubious, this story picks up right where Dubious left off. Very well written dark romance.

4.5*

Consent picks up where Dubious left off, with Valentina facing more challenges in her life than she ever thought possible. This is a difficult review to write without giving away spoilers, so parts will be deliberately vague. I will say, however, that this book is not as dark as Dubious but this author is extremely talented and so it is just as wonderful, but definitely heavier emotionally. It will keep you on your toes as secrets are revealed and questions are answered.

There are twists and turns and several 'didn't see that coming' moments, some of which had me gasping out loud and others which brought tears to my eyes. Several bad decisions are made for the right reasons and I love the way these characters grow, change and evolve as a relationship built from deceit turns to love and affection. Dual POV gives us an insight into their true thoughts and feelings, despite the lies they tell each other. Quincy and Rhett also really come into their own in this book and there are many lighter moments from them which had me chuckling to myself.

Ms Pauls is a new author to me and I thoroughly enjoyed my first introduction to her writing, which won't be my last. I will definitely be looking out for her books in the future. The only reason I dropped half a star is I felt one decision Gabriel made was badly thought out by him and not in keeping with his character. Having said that, it did eventually lead to a whole new world and opportunity opening up for Valentina, so all ended well.

A fantastic dark, sexy, action packed read, I highly recommend this book, together with its partner Dubious, which must be read first.

I love these duet books series! I could feel the raw emotion in his book between Daphne and Gabriel. As well as the other charcters. "If you love something set it free. If it comes back its meant to be" perfectly fits this book! It shows true love can be found anywhere and is never hidden.

Wow! I absolutely loved not only this book but this duet!

I’m hesitant to say too much about the storyline so I’ll try to keep this as spoiler free as possible.

Valentina is such a strong woman who has suffered through so much and yet it never beat her down. There were times that my gut clinched due to her circumstances and despite her fear and despair she held tight to the hope that she could get through to the next day for herself and her brother Charlie.

While what she experienced in the first book was dark and dangerous it also stirred her as nothing else could because it came at the hand of a man she shouldn’t care for. Now she is facing a life she never anticipated and her emotions are indefinable. She knows what she wants, but she fears what she will receive instead.

Gabriel’s character goes through a huge evolution as so many secrets are brought into the light and as he faces his own sins brought on by his obsession with Valentina. For a man who is known as The Breaker, I would have never thought him capable of the love he held for the heroine. The torment he suffered through much of this book was heartbreaking and I wanted something, anything to ease his burden but this goes deeper than the need for conversation.

Charmaine Pauls writes an intense story of two souls struggling with the roles they’ve been cast and then layer by layer she builds those roles until the reader cannot ever see a way for these characters to find freedom. I consumed every wonderful, angst filled word of it.

I’m sad to say I had never even heard of this author prior to Dubious and now knowing she has a long backlist of books to her credit I’m giving evil eyes to all my GR friends who didn’t point me in her direction sooner. So consider this me pointing you to first Dubious and then Consent. (I want to avoid future evil eyes glared at me.)

This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and Charmaine Pauls

Dual POV
Safe – no ow/om drama
Possible Triggers – rape

Oh this book is the perfect completion to the two book series. Gabriel is a perfect blend of hard and calculating. Mean and controlling. Tender and loving. Impassioned and giving.

The author gave it her all and crafted a wonderful, absorbing read that took you on a roller coaster of highs and lows. She told you what would happen, but the process still made your heart crack open. I just couldn't wait until the truth came out and my heart could be happy again too. The loss and pain was real and the HEA was so sweet. Sigh.

Fab read! A bit dark along the way but ending with lots of light and a new appreciate for this superb writer!

Charmaine Pauls delivered an extraordinarily plotted and emotionally compelling story with Consent. Gabriel and Valentina's story had twists and turns, ups and downs, and a completely engaging love story. The angst and emotion in this story were off the charts. I wasn't sure where the author was planning on taking things after the way things left off in book 1, but she definitely upped the game in this story. I loved how all the components of the story flowed together so well. The big tragedy that occurred left me reeling emotionally, and was so well done. I really enjoyed this duet and the way things played out with the characters. This was my first reading experience with this author but it definitely wont be my last.

This is part 2 of a duet so you really need to read book 1 to fully appreciate this story.
This is my first set of books by this author and I enjoyed them.
Gabrielle and Valentina.
Their story continues right from where book 1 ended, Valentina is on the run and Gabrielle wants her back.
The couple are reunited quite quickly and secrets and history are revealed so we can understand the reasons why Magna hates Val so much.
I liked the fact it is set in South Africa, this gives it an original feel and the dangers seem so real.
We see another side to Gab here as he walks his path of redemption.
It had dark parts, there may be some triggers for some as some of Val's history involved rape.

One of the best duets I've read in a long time! Always interesting, great story line and very well written. Start with book 1 and see for yourself!

This is the 2nd book in the series and I really loved it! I had mixed opinions about the beginning of Gabrielle and Valentina's relationship. Being forced to pay off a doubt incurred by her brother, Valentina must submit to Gabrielle's desires and dominance. The first book deals with their on going relationship. This book is a continuation of their story. It starts out with Valentina on the run and in hiding from Gabrielle. When they finally get together again, Gabrielle needs to protect her from his enemies, including his own mother. There is a terrible tragedy that pulls them apart. Then a very surprising revelation by Gabrielle's mother. A true shocker that I didn't see coming! In order to protect Valentina, Gabrielle must do something drastic. This is the one part I had a hard time dealing with. I think someone in their circle would figure it out. I did love the ending, and hope the author is busy writing her next series! Can't wait!

A dark romance lovers’ dream.

Charmaine Pauls’ Loan Shark Duet was pretty much everything. It was decadently dark, perfectly twisted, and all kinds of sexy. I held my breath through both of these books, and Consent ended the duet with a sizzling bang.

Consent picks right back up from where we left off in Dubious--with a HUGE jaw-dropping reveal, one that left me biting my nails in anticipation of this installment. Book two didn’t disappoint! It was one surprise after another, and a beautiful mess that just kept my attention.

I think my heart clogged my throat through most of it. I battled tears multiple times. Then there was the tension that just left me fanning my face because dang… does Gabriel bring intensity and heat.

There are so many different layers to both Gabriel and Valentina. Just when I thought I had one or the other pegged they’d do or say something that opened another facet to them. Gabriel’s not the only one who can play hard, and Valentina stole the show here.

Then there was the drama. Not over the top, by any means, but enough that everything fell together and bowled me over. A few times I had to stop to take a breather. I'm being deliberately vague because this is a book you just have to experience.

Dark romance enthusiasts have found a delicious duet in Charmaine Pauls. I can’t wait to experience this one over and over again.

4.5 stars!

The minute I read the blurbs for Dubious and Consent I knew I needed to read it. I have been consumed with this story from the get go and seriously could not put it down. I was obsessed with Valentina and Gabriel's story and could not wait to see how it would end after the cliffhanger in book one. I thought this story was fantastic and could not get enough!

Consent begins immediately after the cliffhanger in Book one, Dubious, and can not be read as a standalone. I was absolutely sucked into this story. On the run after what she discovered after book one, will Valentina be able to escape Gabriel and his far reaching reach or will she continue to be his prisoner?

Gah I absolutely loved this book. I thought the author did a fantastic job having Gabriel maintain his ruthless edge while seeing the evolution of his deep feelings for Valentina. There was a priority shift and it was so well done without having him look weak. I thought Valentina was also fantastic as she was strong throughout and determined to look out for her family. I loved that the evolving story between them was just as engaging and thrilling and their chemistry between Gabriel just as fiery and sexy.

All in all this was a great story and I look forward to more from this author in the future! I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula

4.5 "I'm more than a vendetta or a debt, and he's more than The Breaker" stars.

"He's my darkness and my love, and he has no idea how truly I am his."

I have been obsessed with this story ever since I devoured Dubious–one of my favorite books of this year. With Consent, Charmaine Pauls delivers an intense, nail-biting story with a lot of twisting and turnings that will keep you on the edge of your comfy seat until you hit the end.

Consent is the the conclusion of The Loan Shark Duet, the perfect ending for Valentina and Gabriel. I'm going to love Charmaine Pauls forever for giving me this story, these characters. Valentina & Gabriel's journey is one I felt in my gut, in my heart. A story that just like the author will stay with me forever.

While decidedly dark, the author skillfully adds sweetness to the story, creating an intriguing, steamy romance. And, to top it all off, an engaging writing style that will test your boundaries and draw you into a world full of violence and an endless love.

Of course, not everything was perfect. I had two big complaints. One of them was just so sad to witness, and the other one... even though, I know it was necessary for the story to run its curse, I hated it.

The side characters. Rhett & Quincy made me laugh my ass off. And the thing is that I wasn't expecting these two to add fun to the story, but they did it and I LOVED it. Loved them. I hope the author considers them for a novella.

Overall, if you love dark romances with a sweet side, then you'll devour this book, and will feel sad to finish when you do.

"Gabriel and I have never been the norm. Perhaps we weren't meant to be the norm. We're us, and I love us."

🌟🌟🌟🌟1/2 STARS
Wow!!!, What a read this was, I was engrossed until the bitter end.
"Consent" starts where "Dubious" left off and right from the get-go we are plunged right back into the raw and gritty world of Gabriel Louw AKA The Breaker.
So Gabriel is now on the hunt, his very delectable prey Valentina Haynes has bolted along with her brother Charlie to whereabouts unknown.
Valentina and Gabriel Both with very crossed wires over this now very real pregnancy and a new baby on the near horizon.
Gabriel himself is counting down the minutes until he has Valentina back in her cage. This time around things are going to be different and he has plans for Valentina once he catches up with her that is.
Right, so the last book "Dubious" I didn't find at all angsty, not that I was complaining.
"Consent" more than makes up for this in buckets.
There is so much going on here in regards to angst and all characters involved take steps out of there very own cliches to evolve brilliantly throughout.
I'm also Loving the new roles for Gabriel’s bodyguards, they make fantastically funny baby-sitters and they had me chuckling along with them.
So where do I start with this, well I found this such an enjoyable read and I was glued to the pages throughout.
The story flowed easily and it was great to catch back up with everyone from "Consent"
so sorry for being vague here, but I'm trying to keep this as spoiler free as possible as I don't want to give away anything.
I only have three small nitpicks that in hindsight made me deduct half a star, but really these are just little things overall.
So number one, I like my dark heroes to stay mostly dark and in this instant, Gabriel becomes a whole lot whiter, I didn't find him that dark initially so I really didn't want him to get even lighter in nature.
And yes I do get it, why he wants to change so dramatically, it's very understandable and also extremely commendable.
It doesn't mean I have to like it though.
That brings me to number two "The Events" themselves, they were dragged out a bit too much for me and I wanted to move on from them, I cried, and then I tried to heal and I wanted poor Gabriel to heal also, then to pull himself back together.
I really don't mean that to sound harsh, it's just I thought poor Valentina was given a bit of a raw deal and could have done with a bit more TLC. instead, she was mainly ignored and pushed to the sidelines by Gabriel, dealing with a pregnancy that had been largely thrust upon her young shoulders.
On a further side note and without giving anything away I was also decidedly disappointed in The makeover, that is all I’m contributing on that matter, but so not a happy bunny here, just saying.
So despite these small grievances I loved all the rest of this and couldn't put it down "Consent" was full of Angst and drama and unforgettable characters and I would highly recommend this as an unforgettable read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing an ARC of Consent this is my own unbiased honest opinion.

Holy mother of god was this book INTENSE. I think this may be one of the best duets I have read all year. WOWZA...so good. The writing remained fantastic. The pace (up until 75%) was great. The plot was engaging. The setting unique. There were twists and turns. The sex scenes were hot. The secondary characters were fantastic. And I LOVED both main characters (up until 75%). Valentina, what can I say? This poor girl was like a puppy that just kept getting kicked over and over and over again. And Gabriel, I wanted to smack him, then hug him, then smack him again.

That said, at 75% this book fell apart a bit for me. At that point, a particular event took place, and I was NOT a fan of the direction the author choose to go in. It was dragged out FAR too long. I was not a fan of the change an individual character(s) made. Especially considering it was one of the things that made me LOVE that character(s), to begin with. It didn't feel authentic to the characters or their actions up until that point. I honestly can't say more about it without spoiling things, so I am going to have to leave it and just say the last 25%ish disappointed me and cost this book a star.

Not much else to say. I'm a bit sad at the way the duet ended but for the most part, I loved the story and the characters and will be keeping my eye on this author to see what else she has up her sleeve. This gets two thumbs up from yours truly.

Consent by Charmaine Pauls is Book Two in "The Loan Shark Duet". This continues the story of Valentina and Gabriel. You do have to read the previous book "Dubious" before reading this one to fully enjoy their story.
Consent picks up where Dubious left off. Gabriel is trying to locate Valentian who has up and left with her brother and not thinking to take any money with her. Gabriel plans on things going different than how he was working it before when he get a hold of Valentina again. Valentina is a strong women and has been through a lot to keep herself and her brother Charlie going. But even the strongest women still falls in love and can't stay away from that man.
This book continues the transformation from Gabriel being totally a dark character to a totally different one after finding love with Valentina. The sex scene where hot and loved the secondary characters a little more in this book.
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Consent picks up right where Dubious leaves off and thank goodness for that because it was a huge cliffhanger that had me on edge to see what was gonna happen next. In fact, this whole series has kept me on the edge of my seat.

I don’t think I’ve been more surprised by a series than I have by this one. Not only was it so much more than I expected, it also had elements to it that just blew my mind. This has one of the most anti Hero’s I’ve read to date and I never felt a person deserved the heroine more than I did this guy.

If you have gotten to this book, you already know what this story is about and why I’m raving about it, so I won’t give any spoilers. Just know that you will not be disappointed in the second and final book.

This author is one to watch out for. If she can create a masterpiece like this, I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us. Brilliant! ARC provided by NetGalley.

*****ARC NETGALLEY***** continuation of Dubious. I loved how the author did not make the Valentina fall apart or become stupid because she had obstacles in her way. The fast paced story has her on the run, pregnant and her brother in tow, trying to start over without any money or technology to survive. With a little help from new friends she survives a pregnancy mishap. Gabriel deceptions causes family issues not just for Valentina but the other females in his life. Love the bodyguards who are always there to help pick the pieces of Valentine, Charlie and Gabriel.
****Recommending this series to friends and colleagues***

FUCKING CRAZY, SEXY, MIND-BLOWING, AND HEART STOPPING. I can't express how much I love this duology.

"What lies in front of me is a broken creature, an angel with torn wings and pieces of her soul and body missing. Despite the injuries, she still fights to fly."

SPOILER FREE REVIEW

P L O T

THE PLOT IS MESSED UP AND CRAZY!
When I thought Consent couldn't get any better compared to Dubious and the drama couldn't get any worse, it just did. Compared to Dubious, this is more fast paced. We no longer take it a day at a time because Valentina is pregnant and she's bound to give birth before the book ends. We stay in the important events.

C H A R A C T E R S

The character development is hard to miss. Everyone has their own problems and their own struggles and they are so human for it. My most favorite ones in this sequel is their bodyguards Quincy and Rhett. They have really fallen under Valentina's spell; not in a sexual way but their more loyal to her than to Gabriel now and they adore her so much. Gabriel keeps repeating that she has that effect on people, heck she even worked her magic on someone else in the Louw family.

Valentina is no longer powered by her anger but she's become so much stronger, mentally and physically. While Gabriel is on his own path to walk on.

W R I T I N G

(Spoiler) There has been a lot of deaths in this book and I understand why they had to be killed of because it'd be too complicated and the story could not progress well if they still breathe. (End of spoiler)

What an education to sexual activities and tricks this is. There was an 'orgasm oil' I don't know if it's a real thing but it's in the book. Once again I repeat, my respect for erotic authors is still great.

O V E R A L L

I thought this book was about Valentina and her struggles, but in the end I realize it was about Gabriel. He's more broken than Valentina with wounds that run too deep which causes for him to have a hared time accepting himself and forgiving himself for the lives he has taken and the life he was forced into by his mother.

This will surely be one of my best reads of the year. Charmaine Pauls has pierced my heart, this book made me cry a couple of times. My heart hurts during those heart-pounding events. 5 stars is not enough to rate this book, it should get 10!

Consent thankfully starts with the end of Dubious in case, like me, you need a refresher. (Too bad I went back and re-read the last few chapters before I realized that. Yeah, not sorry.) I loved getting reacquainted with Valentina and Gabriel.

Consent continues the tangled web of lies, deceit, and destruction that began long before Dubious. But all lies have a way of coming out...

Not only lies but truths seem to have unavoidable consequences. If you thought Dubious had some life changing actions for the characters, wait until Consent breaks you in a whole new way.

Twisted emotions, endless hope, and heartbreak aren't the only things willingness pages. Before long consent will be a given and no longer will you question it...

I knew where this book was going. Valentina's strength was incredible and her never faltering made me sure. She is truly an incredible person. Her "Men" are absolutely adorable and it was a pleasure enjoying their new joy. I am happy to say my Consent was given. Gabriel will always be mine.

Ugh, this story tore me apart and put me back together. This is one of those reads where you want to skip to the end to make sure there's a happily ever after. Just like Valentina, I fell in love with Gabriel too. Being able to get inside this head, you can see what a broken man he is and that he really craves love even though for so long he doesn't recognize that need in himself. I love Valentina and her strength. That strength is what ultimately saves Gabriel. I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give anything away but this story is so gripping and real. Pauls doesn't hold anything back! It's gritty, sexy, dirty, and will give you all the feels.

Consent is a fitting conclusion to the Loan Shark duet. When it starts, Valentina is on the run with Charlie, having decided she can't live with a man she thinks will force her to terminate her pregnancy. The pregnancy Gabriel forced on her. I wanted to shake her because really?! On the run with no money with her disabled brother and she's pregnant? So stupid...but understandable, considering the circumstances she was in. Of course Gabriel is not about to let his property go, though. You have to know that was never a permanent option.

I liked Valentina's character growth here in Consent. She grew a little and developed a little bit of a backbone. I don't think she was ever weak, she's certainly a survivor and strong, it's just that she was always a little meek. I wanted a little more fire from her, and in Consent she finally shows some. Bravo!

Lots of crazy stuff happens, though, and of course Valentina and Gabriel's road to an HEA couldn't possibly be easy. Not with his family and not with their history. Some really big secrets are revealed, betrayals are exposed and some unfortunate things happen. I don't want to call them tragedies, because really they were kind of a relief, but they were kind of unfortunate, if only because certain people suffer because of them. I won't give spoilers, I'll just say that some were kind of predictable, but the big one was a complete surprise to me, and to everyone else with the exception of the one person who knew the big secret.

I've really enjoyed this duet. Gabriel and Valentina make for an exciting, passionate couple. I can't say that I ever fell in love with either of them, but their story is so readable and engaging that I couldn't put either book down. I really hope more is coming from Charmaine Pauls and this world she's created. Perhaps Rhett and Quincy could get their own stories? Hint hint 😘.

I absolutely loved this duet! I couldn't put it down! At the 70% mark, I think the book would have ended, but I still have 30% to go! There were some things I predicted because what happened towards the end of this book also happened in another book I just finished. It worked out well in this story. I'm sad to see these characters go, but I'm glad I took a chance on this author, because I will probably check out her other works.

loved reading the outstanding and enthralling second book in the Loan Shark Duet series. I voluntarily reviewed the story through NetGalley.
Gabriel finds Valentina with her brother, Charlie, and brings them back home. He never wants to go through the anguish again of Valentina slipping through his fingers. Even though Valentina is pregnant and has fallen in love with him, she is still his possession, toy, and wife in name only.
Read the highly recommended, captivating and intriguing full of passion, heartbreak, and romance, and a wonderfully written, must read romance hooking the reader from the beginning and riveting the reader until the end.

Gabriel and Valentina's story is explosive. There are secrets, lies, passion, and love. Their ride is so emotional and fabulous I could not put the book down. I loved this duet so much I can't say enough. There's creative writing and an intriguing story line. If you are looking for suspense, angst, steamy scenes, look no further. This book has it all.

This is the second book in the series and I do recommend reading them in order. Val has run away and Gabriel won’t stop until he finds her. Once he does, he doesn’t plan on letter her go. In this read we learn more about both characters. This read is fast-paced and the chemistry between the characters is intense. The sex is off the charts hot and the story is entertaining and drama filled. I was hooked from beginning to end.

Rip out my heart why don't you! For once, the sequel is just as good as the first. Oh Valentina, she has had such a hard life trying to survive and take care of her brother Charlie. This is the first book in a long time that I've cried more than once while reading. She maybe a fictitious character, but my heart broke for her soo many times throughout both novels. Although I didn't want this series to end, I'm glad it ended on a sweet, life changing note. A true happy ever after!

The first book in the series was great. The second was phenomenal. Extremely fast paced, the story went exactly where I was hoping it would. The two main characters grow individually and together as a couple. There were a few light moments and some that were sad and tense. Of course there's the sizzling sexual element that is handled well by the author. The description of the seedy underbelly of South Africa is raw and evocative. The description of the beauty and savagery even more so. An extremely good read. Highly recommended.

What an amazing conclusion to this mind-blowing Duet!! I seriously could not put my kindle down!!! I loved everything about it!!! Quite the emotional rollercoaster that had me enjoying every part of it!!!! Valentina makes stuff happen in this one and in the best way possible. Rhett & Quincy are my all time favorite friends & protectors for her and I love their banter. Gabriel...man, I have no words! He is def one of a kind!

Another homer in Read! Be sure to check out this duet!! You will love it!