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Broken Crown Trilogy #2
Sound of Madness
He is my ruin.
My complete and utter devastation.
Loyalty or death.
I make my choice in a palace of flames, and wake to total darkness . . .
And at his mercy.
Calloused hands bring hell to my door and his velvet voice spews only poison.
“A traitor to the queen,” he calls me, and though I don’t know his name, it’s clear that he’s no Prince Charming.
Monster.
Villain.
A man who demands that I take it all—and submit.
But no one will ever mistake me for a damsel in distress.
He wants me on my knees, but it won’t be me who breaks.
Only, falling for the most hated man in England was not the plan.
If war is hell, then love is carnage, and the blood that’s spilled belongs to us both.
My complete and utter devastation.
Loyalty or death.
I make my choice in a palace of flames, and wake to total darkness . . .
And at his mercy.
Calloused hands bring hell to my door and his velvet voice spews only poison.
“A traitor to the queen,” he calls me, and though I don’t know his name, it’s clear that he’s no Prince Charming.
Monster.
Villain.
A man who demands that I take it all—and submit.
But no one will ever mistake me for a damsel in distress.
He wants me on my knees, but it won’t be me who breaks.
Only, falling for the most hated man in England was not the plan.
If war is hell, then love is carnage, and the blood that’s spilled belongs to us both.
527 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 4, 2020
About the author
Maria Luis
33 books2,974 followersMaria Luis is an Amazon Top 25 Bestselling Author.
Historian by day and romance novelist by night, Maria lives in New Orleans, and loves bringing the city's cultural flair into her books. When Maria isn't frantically typing with hot chocolate in hand, she can be found binging on reality TV, going on adventures with her other half and two pups, or plotting her next flirty romance.
★ Looking for something quick, fun and sexy to read? Check out these freebies on Maria's website! (Available: Breathless, Undeniable, and The First Fix): https://www.marialuis.org/free-books
Stalk Maria in the wild at:
★ Facebook: facebook.com/marialuisauthor
★ Book Boyfriends Anonymous: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisBBA
★ Instagram: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisIG
★ TikTok: tiktok.com/@marialuisauthor
★ Website: www.marialuis.org
★ Bookbub: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisBB
Maria loves to hear from readers!
Historian by day and romance novelist by night, Maria lives in New Orleans, and loves bringing the city's cultural flair into her books. When Maria isn't frantically typing with hot chocolate in hand, she can be found binging on reality TV, going on adventures with her other half and two pups, or plotting her next flirty romance.
★ Looking for something quick, fun and sexy to read? Check out these freebies on Maria's website! (Available: Breathless, Undeniable, and The First Fix): https://www.marialuis.org/free-books
Stalk Maria in the wild at:
★ Facebook: facebook.com/marialuisauthor
★ Book Boyfriends Anonymous: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisBBA
★ Instagram: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisIG
★ TikTok: tiktok.com/@marialuisauthor
★ Website: www.marialuis.org
★ Bookbub: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisBB
Maria loves to hear from readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
December 4, 2020
★ Sound of Madness is Now Live & Free with Kindle Unlimited! ★
Oh my goodness, y'all! I can't believe that the day is finally HERE. I am so thrilled to share Damien & Rowena's story with you. It's an addicting ride from beginning to end, and I hope that you love them as much as I do. Thank you for taking a chance on this series of mine - it has my heart.
★ The Links ★
Read Sound of Madness Now: https://geni.us/SoundofMadness
Read Road To Fire (Book 1): https://geni.us/RoadToFire
A New King (Book 3) will be coming Spring 2021! Be sure to add it to your TBR.
Oh my goodness, y'all! I can't believe that the day is finally HERE. I am so thrilled to share Damien & Rowena's story with you. It's an addicting ride from beginning to end, and I hope that you love them as much as I do. Thank you for taking a chance on this series of mine - it has my heart.
★ The Links ★
Read Sound of Madness Now: https://geni.us/SoundofMadness
Read Road To Fire (Book 1): https://geni.us/RoadToFire
A New King (Book 3) will be coming Spring 2021! Be sure to add it to your TBR.
December 6, 2020
4.25 Stars!
“Love is carnage.” The words are rasped against her lips but felt to the depth of my marrow. “Love is ruin. And I’m yours through the wreckage.”
Gahhh why does Maria keep doing this to me?! That ending killed me and I swear she's making it harder and harder for me to wait for Guy's book, especially since I'm already pretty obsessed with him😍
And all the plot twists! I couldn't get enough of them, and im loving how everything is so intricately woven and I'm excited to see how everything will come to fruition in the next book. It really kept me on my toes the whole time just waiting for the next ball to drop.
“I come as your prisoner. Cuff my wrists , if you want. Make me the villain of your nightmares. But let me stay.”
I absolutely love Rowen and Damien, and I loved them even more together. They both have been through hard times but they were also the light in each other's lives. They started out rough, emphasis on "enemies", and I loved watching them slowly fall for each other. I also really liked seeing them support each other and wanting the other to strive. Why can't I have a Damien? Then again, I also want a Saxon and Priest🤷🔥
*Insert random quotes that I loved*
“Escape into the sunshine with me, Damien. Just for a little bit.”
"If war is hell, then love is carnage, and the blood that’s spilled belongs to us both."
There were a couple hiccups I had that took my 5 star down to a 4 unfortunately, because I normally am legit obsessed with anything Maria writes. One was at times it did drag, just a bit, I think because this book is so long. Though I think all the scenes were necessary, some just went on a little too long for me and others I wish had been expanded on more, such as the heroine adapting to or having troubles with her temporary blindness, or maybe even insecurity, or just feeling something about her looks after the fire (such as her hair). She was just a bit emotionless on those aspects for me and I needed something more.
At times I was also confused, maybe it's because of all the name drops, but I couldn't figure out at times who was who and who was supposed to be bad or good. Also the actions or their past was just a bit confusing, such as what exactly happened with Damien's mom and him. Despite all of the problems I had though, I still loved this book, and the writing and the amount of work that went in the plot alone, is amazing, and I'm so glad Maria is giving us this masterpiece of a series and I cannot wait for my boo Guy's book (I've already claimed him)🙌
“Own the darkness or it’ll own you. Revel in it. Consume it and bend it to your will. But never, ever let it drown you.”
Safety:
No OW/OM drama
No virgins or manhos
Heroine was willingly celibate for 10 years due to her past with men and hero was willingly celibate for 3 years
Completely committed to each other the whole book
*ARC Provided In Exchange For A Honest Review*
“Love is carnage.” The words are rasped against her lips but felt to the depth of my marrow. “Love is ruin. And I’m yours through the wreckage.”
Gahhh why does Maria keep doing this to me?! That ending killed me and I swear she's making it harder and harder for me to wait for Guy's book, especially since I'm already pretty obsessed with him😍
And all the plot twists! I couldn't get enough of them, and im loving how everything is so intricately woven and I'm excited to see how everything will come to fruition in the next book. It really kept me on my toes the whole time just waiting for the next ball to drop.
“I come as your prisoner. Cuff my wrists , if you want. Make me the villain of your nightmares. But let me stay.”
I absolutely love Rowen and Damien, and I loved them even more together. They both have been through hard times but they were also the light in each other's lives. They started out rough, emphasis on "enemies", and I loved watching them slowly fall for each other. I also really liked seeing them support each other and wanting the other to strive. Why can't I have a Damien? Then again, I also want a Saxon and Priest🤷🔥
*Insert random quotes that I loved*
“Escape into the sunshine with me, Damien. Just for a little bit.”
"If war is hell, then love is carnage, and the blood that’s spilled belongs to us both."
There were a couple hiccups I had that took my 5 star down to a 4 unfortunately, because I normally am legit obsessed with anything Maria writes. One was at times it did drag, just a bit, I think because this book is so long. Though I think all the scenes were necessary, some just went on a little too long for me and others I wish had been expanded on more, such as the heroine adapting to or having troubles with her temporary blindness, or maybe even insecurity, or just feeling something about her looks after the fire (such as her hair). She was just a bit emotionless on those aspects for me and I needed something more.
At times I was also confused, maybe it's because of all the name drops, but I couldn't figure out at times who was who and who was supposed to be bad or good. Also the actions or their past was just a bit confusing, such as what exactly happened with Damien's mom and him. Despite all of the problems I had though, I still loved this book, and the writing and the amount of work that went in the plot alone, is amazing, and I'm so glad Maria is giving us this masterpiece of a series and I cannot wait for my boo Guy's book (I've already claimed him)🙌
“Own the darkness or it’ll own you. Revel in it. Consume it and bend it to your will. But never, ever let it drown you.”
Safety:
No OW/OM drama
No virgins or manhos
Heroine was willingly celibate for 10 years due to her past with men and hero was willingly celibate for 3 years
Completely committed to each other the whole book
*ARC Provided In Exchange For A Honest Review*
December 15, 2020
4 Stars 🌟
Sound of Madness is book 2 in the Broken Crown Trilogy and even though these books all follow different couples they still need to be read in order to take in the full picture and boy what a picture Maria creates.
Sound of Madness picks up right where the cliffhanger/teaser ended in Road to Fire and follows Damien Priest & Rowena and like book one it was straight up fire.
This part of the story added in so much more background and atmosphere to what was/has already been happening and it was just as intense, intriguing, captivating and adventurous as book one with a slight suspense/what the f*** is happening vibe. This entire (alternative) universe and plot surrounding the monarchy and government has me so beyond hooked, so many twists and turns on this beautifully crafted journey. This book did however take me a little longer to focus on in the beginning (I probably should've reread RTF as a refresher) but once I got immersed into this world again I did not want it to end, and that ending gosh WHY?! but it sure does set up what I'm sure will be an amazing final book.
This review is a little vague I know but honestly this is one of those series best experienced by jumping in blindly and I have no other way to describe it other than saying its simply amazing and is fast becoming one of my all time favourite series.
《my reviewing system is in my bio for those interested on how I choose to rate books》
Sound of Madness is book 2 in the Broken Crown Trilogy and even though these books all follow different couples they still need to be read in order to take in the full picture and boy what a picture Maria creates.
Sound of Madness picks up right where the cliffhanger/teaser ended in Road to Fire and follows Damien Priest & Rowena and like book one it was straight up fire.
This part of the story added in so much more background and atmosphere to what was/has already been happening and it was just as intense, intriguing, captivating and adventurous as book one with a slight suspense/what the f*** is happening vibe. This entire (alternative) universe and plot surrounding the monarchy and government has me so beyond hooked, so many twists and turns on this beautifully crafted journey. This book did however take me a little longer to focus on in the beginning (I probably should've reread RTF as a refresher) but once I got immersed into this world again I did not want it to end, and that ending gosh WHY?! but it sure does set up what I'm sure will be an amazing final book.
This review is a little vague I know but honestly this is one of those series best experienced by jumping in blindly and I have no other way to describe it other than saying its simply amazing and is fast becoming one of my all time favourite series.
《my reviewing system is in my bio for those interested on how I choose to rate books》
December 3, 2020
Get ready to hand the keys over to Maria because she's going to get you all twisted up.
We are in the middle of more twists and jaw-dropping moments and scenes that prove Rowena and Damien are the bosses who own their power over the reader.
Get ready for the mother of all cliffs because it's going to have you convinced that Maria can write no wrong. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntary review.
We are in the middle of more twists and jaw-dropping moments and scenes that prove Rowena and Damien are the bosses who own their power over the reader.
Get ready for the mother of all cliffs because it's going to have you convinced that Maria can write no wrong. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntary review.
December 4, 2020
Amazon
Rowena, the Queen's best friend. Damien, the Mad Priest. One wouldn't think they'd make a good match, and they don't, at first. There's so much animosity between them, but we all know what that kind of passion can lead to, what it can be concealing...
"If war is hell, then love is carnage, and the blood that's spilled belongs to us both."
So much happens here, action, suspense, intrigue. More shady politics, more spy craft, and more betrayal and of course, love and passion.
"My heart beats only for you, Damien. And without you, I'm in hell."Damien and Rowena's tory is probably even more enticing and addicting reading than Damien's brother Saxon and his love, Isla's. Damien is so broken, so set in the idea that he's not worthy of love, that it takes an even fiercer woman to get through to him, to get past his walls. And that woman is Rowena. She is quite honestly, amazing. I think she's my favorite part of Sound of Madness, perhaps even more so than Damien, whom I loved from the first page of his story. But, as much as I love this story, I have to warn you, the cliffhanger is even more upsetting and bigger than the one in Road to Fire. So be prepared!
ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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December 4, 2020
A TOP READ OF 2020!
I can't remember the last time I anticipated a book more, and Maria has absolutely outdone herself! The writing, the suspense, the romance...everything about this book is next level! I was holding by breath, on the edge of my seat and in tears during this book, and I wouldn't change any of it! I devoured this book in less than a day, and am in MAJOR book hangover!
The action picks up right where Road to Fire ends, and IT DOES NOT STOP! Rowena is the heroine we all want to be in our own lives. She is a badass (as you learn in the first few pages) and she does not let anyone take over her life. I had chills reading parts of this book because she is so incredible, and the most EPIC of heroines.
And her hero (she doesn't need one, she's the hero in her own story!), Damien? He's epic as well. Our unlikely hero in this story, he is all kinds of dark and twisty, and to see his journey unfold is incredible. With the way Damien and Rowena meet, you don't see redemption for the Mad Priest. But Maria spins this beautiful story that we just have to hold onto dear life for, and it had me floored. The chemistry and pull between these two had me swooning and crying in the same breath. Damien and Rowena are now one of my favorite couples!
And the way Maria portrays London? Gah! It's not the London we know and love, and it sets the perfect backdrop for this dark, royal romance. London is her own character, and I love the dark, underbelly of her we get to see.
Being able to follow along with Maria's writing journey, you know this book took her longer than she expected, but I would have waited YEARS for this book! It was utter perfection! I don't say that about a lot of books, but there is nothing I would change in this book! The love Maria poured into this book doesn't go unnoticed, and her words are so incredibly powerful. I could keep gushing about my love for this book, but all I can say is, you need to go read this book now! You will not regret it!
I can't remember the last time I anticipated a book more, and Maria has absolutely outdone herself! The writing, the suspense, the romance...everything about this book is next level! I was holding by breath, on the edge of my seat and in tears during this book, and I wouldn't change any of it! I devoured this book in less than a day, and am in MAJOR book hangover!
The action picks up right where Road to Fire ends, and IT DOES NOT STOP! Rowena is the heroine we all want to be in our own lives. She is a badass (as you learn in the first few pages) and she does not let anyone take over her life. I had chills reading parts of this book because she is so incredible, and the most EPIC of heroines.
And her hero (she doesn't need one, she's the hero in her own story!), Damien? He's epic as well. Our unlikely hero in this story, he is all kinds of dark and twisty, and to see his journey unfold is incredible. With the way Damien and Rowena meet, you don't see redemption for the Mad Priest. But Maria spins this beautiful story that we just have to hold onto dear life for, and it had me floored. The chemistry and pull between these two had me swooning and crying in the same breath. Damien and Rowena are now one of my favorite couples!
And the way Maria portrays London? Gah! It's not the London we know and love, and it sets the perfect backdrop for this dark, royal romance. London is her own character, and I love the dark, underbelly of her we get to see.
Being able to follow along with Maria's writing journey, you know this book took her longer than she expected, but I would have waited YEARS for this book! It was utter perfection! I don't say that about a lot of books, but there is nothing I would change in this book! The love Maria poured into this book doesn't go unnoticed, and her words are so incredibly powerful. I could keep gushing about my love for this book, but all I can say is, you need to go read this book now! You will not regret it!
December 2, 2020
When your sworn enemy delivers herself into your open, vengeful arms …
You. Are. Not. Prepared. For. This. Book. I've read dark and twisty, and I've read enemies to lovers. All of them seem like rom-coms compared to this heart-wrenching story.
The first book, Road to Fire, is exactly that. It was the road that led to this blazing inferno as it picks up right where the first book left off, only this time we're experiencing the fire at the Palace through Rowena's all-guts-and-no-glory rescue of the Queen. Who knew getting her to safety was going to tear her entire life apart? This author knew. But she did it anyway.
There is NOTHING predictable about this book. Damien may be attracted to Rowena, but he has a long history and an even longer memory, and he's not going to let his attraction to her get in the way of his quest for his own freedom.
And then we find out exactly WHO Rowena is! And the role she played in the events of the first book nearly knocked my heart to the floor. How could these two EVER find even the smallest sliver of common ground on which to build their HEA?
This author pulled out all the stops in this story. She doesn’t just plumb the depths of her characters’ emotions, she drags them all up and lays them out on the beach, one by one, in full sunlight, for all to see.
Bleeding hearts are just the first step, though. There's plenty of action and suspense, surprise betrayals and even more surprising loyalties, tragically high costs paid by both the good guys and the villains, and you'll need a score card to keep track of who fits in which category (but use a pencil, because you'll be changing your mind more than a few times).
As expected, this book resolves the romance for Rowena and Damien but leaves us hanging off a cliff by one fingernail as we await the final book in the Broken Crown trilogy. Utterly mesmerizing, this book will hang your heart out to dry while you pour yourself a stiff drink (or two) as you try to regain your grasp of reality. Forget your sanity. It's gone. Maria Luis is going to hang on to it until she finishes her final assault on our preconceived notions of romantic suspense.
If you've read the first, you already know you have to read this one. If you haven't yet, then run your one-clicker right on over and get these books. Then you'll be ready to join the rest of her fans in praying for her soul and begging her to complete this masterpiece adventure.
If you like your romance to tear your guts out and stomp them into the ground before rewarding you with the sweetest of HEAs, then look no further. You've found your people.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
You. Are. Not. Prepared. For. This. Book. I've read dark and twisty, and I've read enemies to lovers. All of them seem like rom-coms compared to this heart-wrenching story.
The first book, Road to Fire, is exactly that. It was the road that led to this blazing inferno as it picks up right where the first book left off, only this time we're experiencing the fire at the Palace through Rowena's all-guts-and-no-glory rescue of the Queen. Who knew getting her to safety was going to tear her entire life apart? This author knew. But she did it anyway.
There is NOTHING predictable about this book. Damien may be attracted to Rowena, but he has a long history and an even longer memory, and he's not going to let his attraction to her get in the way of his quest for his own freedom.
And then we find out exactly WHO Rowena is! And the role she played in the events of the first book nearly knocked my heart to the floor. How could these two EVER find even the smallest sliver of common ground on which to build their HEA?
This author pulled out all the stops in this story. She doesn’t just plumb the depths of her characters’ emotions, she drags them all up and lays them out on the beach, one by one, in full sunlight, for all to see.
Bleeding hearts are just the first step, though. There's plenty of action and suspense, surprise betrayals and even more surprising loyalties, tragically high costs paid by both the good guys and the villains, and you'll need a score card to keep track of who fits in which category (but use a pencil, because you'll be changing your mind more than a few times).
As expected, this book resolves the romance for Rowena and Damien but leaves us hanging off a cliff by one fingernail as we await the final book in the Broken Crown trilogy. Utterly mesmerizing, this book will hang your heart out to dry while you pour yourself a stiff drink (or two) as you try to regain your grasp of reality. Forget your sanity. It's gone. Maria Luis is going to hang on to it until she finishes her final assault on our preconceived notions of romantic suspense.
If you've read the first, you already know you have to read this one. If you haven't yet, then run your one-clicker right on over and get these books. Then you'll be ready to join the rest of her fans in praying for her soul and begging her to complete this masterpiece adventure.
If you like your romance to tear your guts out and stomp them into the ground before rewarding you with the sweetest of HEAs, then look no further. You've found your people.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
December 3, 2020
Sound of Madness has been my most anticipated book ever since I finished Road to Fire earlier this year. I just finished SOM and I'm trying to get my brain to quit scrambling long enough to form a cohesive review. I will start this off by saying IT'S EVERYTHING WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR AND MORE!
I want to leave a review without any spoilers and this feels an almost impossible task but I will try!
We pick up immediately where we left off in RTF. We are introduced to our heroine, Rowena and what a BAD ASS! Her and Damien are fire from their very first meeting and their intensity and passion bleed through the pages.
We are given some answers and left with so many more! The political games that are played are as much a character as the rest. Loyalties are constantly questioned and tested and it's proved over and over what you will do to save someone you love.
While reading RTF I felt like my heart was in my throat the whole time, while reading SOM, the angsty knots in my stomach NEVER let up! Maria kept us in the same world with totally different tones and feelings between brothers. I'm seriously amazed at what her brain has come up with and how she has done it! The Broken Crown world is now forever one of my favorites and I need Guy's book NOW!
"Long live the Queen"
I want to leave a review without any spoilers and this feels an almost impossible task but I will try!
We pick up immediately where we left off in RTF. We are introduced to our heroine, Rowena and what a BAD ASS! Her and Damien are fire from their very first meeting and their intensity and passion bleed through the pages.
We are given some answers and left with so many more! The political games that are played are as much a character as the rest. Loyalties are constantly questioned and tested and it's proved over and over what you will do to save someone you love.
While reading RTF I felt like my heart was in my throat the whole time, while reading SOM, the angsty knots in my stomach NEVER let up! Maria kept us in the same world with totally different tones and feelings between brothers. I'm seriously amazed at what her brain has come up with and how she has done it! The Broken Crown world is now forever one of my favorites and I need Guy's book NOW!
"Long live the Queen"
September 11, 2022
I didn't think I could love this one more than I loved Saxon. Damien Priest proved me wrong.
I just realized the last book isn't out yet, so I'm going to keep refreshing the author's page until there's news.
That ending was so unexpected but I'm even more excited for the final book now.
I found this series through booktok and I am so happy I gave it a chance. It has everything I've been craving. A gripping plot, interesting characters, wonderful character development, twists, revenge, violence, and the perfect amount of spice!🌶🌶🌶
Damien's story broke my heart and I am now SO invested in what happens to him in A New King.
*For both of the books I've read in this series, the author made a curated playlist before the contents page. It fits SO well with the book and coincidentally it's music I already love. I thought that was such a nice touch and I wish it was in more books. Utilize it on your read! I promise it's great.*
I just realized the last book isn't out yet, so I'm going to keep refreshing the author's page until there's news.
That ending was so unexpected but I'm even more excited for the final book now.
I found this series through booktok and I am so happy I gave it a chance. It has everything I've been craving. A gripping plot, interesting characters, wonderful character development, twists, revenge, violence, and the perfect amount of spice!🌶🌶🌶
Damien's story broke my heart and I am now SO invested in what happens to him in A New King.
*For both of the books I've read in this series, the author made a curated playlist before the contents page. It fits SO well with the book and coincidentally it's music I already love. I thought that was such a nice touch and I wish it was in more books. Utilize it on your read! I promise it's great.*
December 4, 2020
WHAT. THE. HECK!!!!!! I just finished an incredible story that has left my mind spinning, twisting and contemplating!! Sound of Madness has been on my list of my most anticipated book this year, ever since the mind blowing cliffhanger at the end of Road to Fire. I have just finished reading and I’M NOT OKAY! Maria Luis has definitely come out to play with book 2 in the Broken Crown Trilogy. I'm trying to unscramble my brain to formulate a coherent review. So excuse the ramblings below...
My mind is completely blown away by what I’ve just finished reading. It messed with my heart and my head! It was absolutely magnificent. Filled to the brim with political intrigue and a riveting storyline, I was glued to my seat the entire time! The secrets, lies and the intrigue were mind boggling. Damien and Rowena’s story gutted me, it rocked me to my very core, and it tortured me. I must be a glutton for punishment because I loved Every. Single. Word. They are both so freaking compelling and memorable I couldn’t help but love them. And together, they’re electric. Explosive. Incendiary. They were pure perfection!
From the beginning until the end, this story had me on the edge of my seat with feelings of nervousness and unease with not knowing what was going to happen next, yet I absolutely loved single every minute. Sound of Madness is phenomenal. It’s thrilling. It’s insanely sexy and suspenseful. A complete package. I was enamoured with these amazing and layered characters and blown away with the premise of the story. Maria has left me guessing and questioning while I fall deeper and deeper down the rabbit hole. It’s twisted and so damn addictive. She’s laid the perfect foundation for the final part of this trilogy and I seriously can’t wait to see what she has in store. I had such a hard time putting this one down and I’m dying to pick up the third and final book after being smacked in the face with the craziest of cliffhanger endings!! And I’m obsessed with this evil genius, wicked, brilliant mind of hers. I bow down to this gifted author!
My mind is completely blown away by what I’ve just finished reading. It messed with my heart and my head! It was absolutely magnificent. Filled to the brim with political intrigue and a riveting storyline, I was glued to my seat the entire time! The secrets, lies and the intrigue were mind boggling. Damien and Rowena’s story gutted me, it rocked me to my very core, and it tortured me. I must be a glutton for punishment because I loved Every. Single. Word. They are both so freaking compelling and memorable I couldn’t help but love them. And together, they’re electric. Explosive. Incendiary. They were pure perfection!
From the beginning until the end, this story had me on the edge of my seat with feelings of nervousness and unease with not knowing what was going to happen next, yet I absolutely loved single every minute. Sound of Madness is phenomenal. It’s thrilling. It’s insanely sexy and suspenseful. A complete package. I was enamoured with these amazing and layered characters and blown away with the premise of the story. Maria has left me guessing and questioning while I fall deeper and deeper down the rabbit hole. It’s twisted and so damn addictive. She’s laid the perfect foundation for the final part of this trilogy and I seriously can’t wait to see what she has in store. I had such a hard time putting this one down and I’m dying to pick up the third and final book after being smacked in the face with the craziest of cliffhanger endings!! And I’m obsessed with this evil genius, wicked, brilliant mind of hers. I bow down to this gifted author!
December 10, 2020
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
"Sound of Madness" is the second book of "Broken Crown" Trilogy by the best selling author Maria Luis. Told in dual perspectives , get ready to meet Damien Priest and Rowena!
Rowena is on a mission. Her job is everything to her and when she nearly dies saving the queen , she knows nothing will ever be the same. Robbed of her eyesight and with burns all over her body she was not sure she would survive again. That is until the enemy saves her.
Damien Pries is one of the Priest brothers who is known as the Mad Priest. He knows that Rowena is hiding something and there is no way he is not making her confess those things. If he has to use manipulation , then so be it. But he soon learns that his little captive is not someone to be underestimated. She has her own strengths and There is something huge at work here. Not to mention the fact that even in her disfigured state , she calls to something primal in him. There was no way he was ever letting her go now , mission be damned.
The twists and turns of this story absolutely threw me in for a loop.!! The plotline was amazing and the ending was something that I definitely did not see coming. The book ended on an HEA but still left a lot of questions about the oldest priest brother. I just know that his book is going to be the best of them all!! And I can barely wait for that one. A definite recommendation to all the dark Romance lovers out there!
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December 8, 2020
Holy macros of WOW, full review on my BLOG but Maria you really outdid yourself..wow! CLICK HERE FOR REVIEW
December 6, 2020
This was one of my most anticipated read for months and I'm kinda disappointed that I didn't like it as much as the first book. I think my problem was that the story felt dragged at one point and I got bored. I think it was a little too long so a lot of the story just repeated and the real action happened in the last 90%. I liked Damien but I couldn't connect with Rowena, there was something about her characher that really irked me.
But I'm excited about Guy and the queen👀
But I'm excited about Guy and the queen👀
December 10, 2020
Mind. Freaking. Blown. This is just unbelievable level of writing from Maria Luis. Sound of Madness was an epic, larger than life, all consuming and all over perfect romantic suspense.
The storyline twisted me inside and I felt like I am going crazy from the constant shocking revelations. They just don't stop coming! The characters are complex and flawed and with so many layers that I thought I will never stop finding more. And all the feels! Angsty, heartbreaking, breathtaking, sensational feels with nuclear hot chemistry. I couldn't breathe. I couldn't blink. My heart is a mess and I love it so much. The writing is exceptional. Just too brilliant.
Set in the dark, powerful, legendary and corrupt world of politics and royal drama of England, this is the story of Damien aka the Mad Priest and Rowena Carrington, the PM's daughter. Damien took oath to serve the royal family like his whole family but the conspiracy has branded him as the number one fugitive of the country. Rowena owes everything to the queen, her childhood best friend and she saved the queen endangering own life. But Damien wants to destroy her and she wants to ruin him. Why? That's a big question. Damien is such a broken, unhinged and destructive man. But Rowan got inside his madness. She was abused and torn down way too many times but this fierce woman didn't concede defeat. They have an explosive soul shattering connection that is dangerous but necessary like air. She accepted the dark deviant in Damien. And Damien saw the real Rowena beyond the scars and deceptions.You need to read it to feel the powerful impact of the brilliant writing.
I have so much to say about the beauty of Sound of Madness by Maria Luis and words are falling short. This story made me lose my mind in the best way possible. I didn't come up for air once I started this story. Unique. Adrenaline rush. One of my top romantic suspense read ever.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
The storyline twisted me inside and I felt like I am going crazy from the constant shocking revelations. They just don't stop coming! The characters are complex and flawed and with so many layers that I thought I will never stop finding more. And all the feels! Angsty, heartbreaking, breathtaking, sensational feels with nuclear hot chemistry. I couldn't breathe. I couldn't blink. My heart is a mess and I love it so much. The writing is exceptional. Just too brilliant.
Set in the dark, powerful, legendary and corrupt world of politics and royal drama of England, this is the story of Damien aka the Mad Priest and Rowena Carrington, the PM's daughter. Damien took oath to serve the royal family like his whole family but the conspiracy has branded him as the number one fugitive of the country. Rowena owes everything to the queen, her childhood best friend and she saved the queen endangering own life. But Damien wants to destroy her and she wants to ruin him. Why? That's a big question. Damien is such a broken, unhinged and destructive man. But Rowan got inside his madness. She was abused and torn down way too many times but this fierce woman didn't concede defeat. They have an explosive soul shattering connection that is dangerous but necessary like air. She accepted the dark deviant in Damien. And Damien saw the real Rowena beyond the scars and deceptions.You need to read it to feel the powerful impact of the brilliant writing.
I have so much to say about the beauty of Sound of Madness by Maria Luis and words are falling short. This story made me lose my mind in the best way possible. I didn't come up for air once I started this story. Unique. Adrenaline rush. One of my top romantic suspense read ever.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
December 5, 2020
Be watchful, be vigilant...something wicked this way comes
Maria Luis has tapped into the political conspiracy theory realm and I don't have any idea if I want her to come back! This series is darker, drearier, and so much more edgy than her other works but she definitely knows what she's doing.
If Road to Fire was a wake up call/call to arms, then Sound of Madness is being kidnapped, blindfolded, and deprived of sound. Sedated and then unknowingly finding yourself in a pitch black tunnel of unknown origin, unknown destination, with only your fear of the unknown propelling you to an end- yours or the tunnels you do not know. The anger, frustration, and fear are all fed by the lack of sound- a silence so profound it's as though even your heartbeats and breaths are muffled. Your fear ratchets up, your pulse skyrockets but that unknown darkness eats at your mind, fuels your panic, and twists your rational thoughts. You only know up and down and even that seems shaky.
Sound of Madness is that fear, that paranoia, that confusion. You have an assumption of up and down but in this true darkness...you really don't know. My brain stopped, paused, and tried to reset while coasting through all the options, motives, and theories is was sprouting. Luis keeps a steady stream of possibilities around to toy, tease, and torture an inquisitive mind. So watch your back, trust no one, and always write a review (tip your waitress didn't make sense here!).
Oh and Rowena, you go girl! Talk about a heroine with a backbone that makes Wolverine look wussy. I can honestly say I am proud of all she is.
Damien, Damien, Damien...boy are you a suprise! I can honestly say that your tormented bad boy vibe totally works for me. Your need to avenge- also not a problem. What can I say...this boy is poison! (You don't want me to sing it!)
Just remember, something wicked this way comes...
Maria Luis has tapped into the political conspiracy theory realm and I don't have any idea if I want her to come back! This series is darker, drearier, and so much more edgy than her other works but she definitely knows what she's doing.
If Road to Fire was a wake up call/call to arms, then Sound of Madness is being kidnapped, blindfolded, and deprived of sound. Sedated and then unknowingly finding yourself in a pitch black tunnel of unknown origin, unknown destination, with only your fear of the unknown propelling you to an end- yours or the tunnels you do not know. The anger, frustration, and fear are all fed by the lack of sound- a silence so profound it's as though even your heartbeats and breaths are muffled. Your fear ratchets up, your pulse skyrockets but that unknown darkness eats at your mind, fuels your panic, and twists your rational thoughts. You only know up and down and even that seems shaky.
Sound of Madness is that fear, that paranoia, that confusion. You have an assumption of up and down but in this true darkness...you really don't know. My brain stopped, paused, and tried to reset while coasting through all the options, motives, and theories is was sprouting. Luis keeps a steady stream of possibilities around to toy, tease, and torture an inquisitive mind. So watch your back, trust no one, and always write a review (tip your waitress didn't make sense here!).
Oh and Rowena, you go girl! Talk about a heroine with a backbone that makes Wolverine look wussy. I can honestly say I am proud of all she is.
Damien, Damien, Damien...boy are you a suprise! I can honestly say that your tormented bad boy vibe totally works for me. Your need to avenge- also not a problem. What can I say...this boy is poison! (You don't want me to sing it!)
Just remember, something wicked this way comes...
December 4, 2020
"If war is hell, then love is carnage, and the blood that’s spilled belongs to us both."
Hold on tight and prepare yourself for the ride of your life! Sound of Madness is nothing you've ever read or expected. It is jampacked with one twist after the other. You turn one corner and BAM another turn you never saw coming. It isn't called Sound of Madness for fun! It literally makes you mad! You're trying to figure out everything but you can't. It's impossible! But let me go back a few steps...
Sound of Madness picks up right after Road to Fire. It is the story of "the Mad Priest" Damien Godwin and Rowena Carrigan the daughter of the british Prime Minister. Like RTF it plays in many different locations in London which I loved alot since I couldn't travel there this year.
Damien is one hell of a guy! He is portrayed as this mad guy who tried to kill the king and he's out for revenge on those people who made his life a living hell. But there is more to the story then we think. Rowena and Damien meet after a fire in Buckingham Palace. Rowena and the queen flee the palace and end up in Holyrood - not the one in Scotland.
Rowan our heroine is seriously badass! She's 100% not a damsel who needs saving. She saves herself and those she loves. She has her own deamons she battles but she puts it all aside for the greater good. She's also best friends with the queen who she saved during the fire.
I can not tell you anymore about this book because in my opinion you need to read it for yourself and experience it with an open mind and without spoilers. SOM is brilliant! It grips you from the first page until the last one and you won't be able to put it down for only a second without thinking about what will happen next.
Definitely a highlight this year for me!
5 ⭐️
ARC kindly provided by the author and PR agency in exchange for an honest review!
Hold on tight and prepare yourself for the ride of your life! Sound of Madness is nothing you've ever read or expected. It is jampacked with one twist after the other. You turn one corner and BAM another turn you never saw coming. It isn't called Sound of Madness for fun! It literally makes you mad! You're trying to figure out everything but you can't. It's impossible! But let me go back a few steps...
Sound of Madness picks up right after Road to Fire. It is the story of "the Mad Priest" Damien Godwin and Rowena Carrigan the daughter of the british Prime Minister. Like RTF it plays in many different locations in London which I loved alot since I couldn't travel there this year.
Damien is one hell of a guy! He is portrayed as this mad guy who tried to kill the king and he's out for revenge on those people who made his life a living hell. But there is more to the story then we think. Rowena and Damien meet after a fire in Buckingham Palace. Rowena and the queen flee the palace and end up in Holyrood - not the one in Scotland.
Rowan our heroine is seriously badass! She's 100% not a damsel who needs saving. She saves herself and those she loves. She has her own deamons she battles but she puts it all aside for the greater good. She's also best friends with the queen who she saved during the fire.
I can not tell you anymore about this book because in my opinion you need to read it for yourself and experience it with an open mind and without spoilers. SOM is brilliant! It grips you from the first page until the last one and you won't be able to put it down for only a second without thinking about what will happen next.
Definitely a highlight this year for me!
5 ⭐️
ARC kindly provided by the author and PR agency in exchange for an honest review!
December 6, 2020
Holy Madness! This book SLAYED me. After Road To Fire, I really didn't think Maria Luis could reach into my chest and squeeze my heart any more than she already had, yet she proved me wrong with the epic story of Damien Priest. Damn, woman. This book... it will stay with me for a very long time.
The plot unfolded with all the precision of a scalpel and all the surprise of a hot summer's day in the middle of winter. I couldn't read fast enough, yet wanted to savor every single word on the page, so beautifully were they crafted. Damien and Rowena's love story is epically flawed. So wonderfully broken. This is no ordinary enemies to lovers. Then again, Ms. Luis is no ordinary writer.
Seriously, read this book. Oh no, wait. Read Road To Fire and THEN come read this book. Immediately. No waiting. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.
The plot unfolded with all the precision of a scalpel and all the surprise of a hot summer's day in the middle of winter. I couldn't read fast enough, yet wanted to savor every single word on the page, so beautifully were they crafted. Damien and Rowena's love story is epically flawed. So wonderfully broken. This is no ordinary enemies to lovers. Then again, Ms. Luis is no ordinary writer.
Seriously, read this book. Oh no, wait. Read Road To Fire and THEN come read this book. Immediately. No waiting. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.
December 6, 2020
Amazing!
I'm going to be honest I rarely ever review books I've read (it's a struggle for me) but this book ruined me. I knew after reading RTF that SOM would be nothing short of amazing. The love story between Rowena and Damien is powerful. This book made me laugh, cry, and throw my kindle. The character back stories, the way all of the characters are intertwined, the sex scenes (the alter), and the plot twist I didn't see come equaled my ruin. Now I anxiously await ANK so I can dive right back into the Broken Crown universe wholly. It appears this trilogy is off the beaten path for Maria but in case she reads this - While I've read 90 % of your work this is by far my favorite and you had to write this, there is no one else who could bring this world to life the way you did!
I'm going to be honest I rarely ever review books I've read (it's a struggle for me) but this book ruined me. I knew after reading RTF that SOM would be nothing short of amazing. The love story between Rowena and Damien is powerful. This book made me laugh, cry, and throw my kindle. The character back stories, the way all of the characters are intertwined, the sex scenes (the alter), and the plot twist I didn't see come equaled my ruin. Now I anxiously await ANK so I can dive right back into the Broken Crown universe wholly. It appears this trilogy is off the beaten path for Maria but in case she reads this - While I've read 90 % of your work this is by far my favorite and you had to write this, there is no one else who could bring this world to life the way you did!
![Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1572307419i/47676940._UY200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
December 7, 2020
I have no words for this story. I absolutely loved Road to Fire and didn’t think that anything could surpass that, but Sound of Madness did. It exceeded everything and took me on a ride that I wasn’t ready to end.
There were twists and turns right off the bat and continued throughout the story. I didn’t think it was possible to love Damien as much as I did. I mean, who doesn’t love an amazing anti-hero? I loved Rowena. She is broken, she is a fighter, and she is strong. You can’t help but fall in love with her and root for her from the very beginning. Together her and Damien are perfect. They are the missing pieces to each other’s puzzle.
I didn’t want their story to end and when it did, I was dying for more! The pictures Maria paints in your mind with her words it magical and transport you directly into the scene as if you’re watching a movie.
If you haven’t started the Broken Crown Trilogy, I HIGHLY recommend it because it will take you on a wild ride through betrayal, mystery, suspense, fire and madness. It is addicting and will captivate you from the very first page and never let go.
There were twists and turns right off the bat and continued throughout the story. I didn’t think it was possible to love Damien as much as I did. I mean, who doesn’t love an amazing anti-hero? I loved Rowena. She is broken, she is a fighter, and she is strong. You can’t help but fall in love with her and root for her from the very beginning. Together her and Damien are perfect. They are the missing pieces to each other’s puzzle.
I didn’t want their story to end and when it did, I was dying for more! The pictures Maria paints in your mind with her words it magical and transport you directly into the scene as if you’re watching a movie.
If you haven’t started the Broken Crown Trilogy, I HIGHLY recommend it because it will take you on a wild ride through betrayal, mystery, suspense, fire and madness. It is addicting and will captivate you from the very first page and never let go.
December 12, 2020
Holy smokes! Maria Luis has done it again! This was action packed, had me sitting on the edge of my seat with twists and turns GALORE! Damien and Rowena were amazing. Both strong, broken people who lived in darkness and didn't think they deserved anything good because of what they had done and been through. Kindred souls describes them perfectly. Damien was bada**. But you know what? Rowena was just as tough. Maria Luis has shown me with this and the previous book in the series that she can write a tough female lead who shows just enough vulnerability. The ending had me literally screaming!
My only complaint is that it took me a minute to reorient with this world since it was a bit between books and this picks up almost immediately after the first one. You can not read it as a stand alone. I'm anxiously waiting for the next one!
My only complaint is that it took me a minute to reorient with this world since it was a bit between books and this picks up almost immediately after the first one. You can not read it as a stand alone. I'm anxiously waiting for the next one!
December 15, 2020
Rowena is the Prime Minister’s daughter and the Queen’s best friend who finds herself in an impossible situation. She is strong, resilient and hasn’t let the turmoil of what she has endured changed the fierce and loyal woman that she is.
Damien considers it not only a duty and a honor to be part of Holyrood as they protect the royal family. He may be a warrior however it is only those closest to him that are allowed to see the man he is and how special he truly is.
Both Damien and Rowena find themselves facing one of the most challenging times of their lives who find themselves facing difficult choices both when it comes to those around them and when it comes to each other. Their journey is filled with intrigue, surprises you don’t see coming, emotions that will tear at your heart and characters who will captivate you.
Damien considers it not only a duty and a honor to be part of Holyrood as they protect the royal family. He may be a warrior however it is only those closest to him that are allowed to see the man he is and how special he truly is.
Both Damien and Rowena find themselves facing one of the most challenging times of their lives who find themselves facing difficult choices both when it comes to those around them and when it comes to each other. Their journey is filled with intrigue, surprises you don’t see coming, emotions that will tear at your heart and characters who will captivate you.
December 10, 2020
This was a book I have been waiting for so bad and I wasn’t disappointed at all! Damien and Rowena literally brought out any and every emotion I had and put my head into a tailspin. I knew I’d enjoy this book but it surpassed anything I originally thought.
Read
December 15, 2020Dnf.
(chap21)
(chap21)
December 17, 2020
A stunning addition to the series with heartstopping, heart-throbbing, and heart-filling moments. I cannot wait for book three
December 8, 2020
Better than the first - a seemingly impossible feat!!!!
Let’s face the facts… many trilogies have a middle book slump. The book is needed to move the story forward, but they tend to miss the excitement of the first or epicness of the final books. Kudos to Luis because she managed not only to beat this trend but also smashed it and sent the crumbs flying.
I was a conspiracy theorist and wanted Damien with Margaret. Now I know how silly I really am. I’m fully team Rowien (what I’m calling them - unless I have I missed the naming?)
This book is FIERCE. And yes, the capitals are needed. I’m going against my norm with Maria Luis’ books and won’t wax poetic for days. Wait, I will, just not in this particular review. All that needs to be said is you need this book in your life. Without this perfectly written masterpiece of dynamic, mind-blowing, and steamy ball of all the yeses in your life, you are not whole. Dramatic - yes. But true - heck, yes!!!!
Do yourself a favor: click the button, settle in, and read. Just be prepared — you absolutely will have a book hangover in a significant way.
Let’s face the facts… many trilogies have a middle book slump. The book is needed to move the story forward, but they tend to miss the excitement of the first or epicness of the final books. Kudos to Luis because she managed not only to beat this trend but also smashed it and sent the crumbs flying.
I was a conspiracy theorist and wanted Damien with Margaret. Now I know how silly I really am. I’m fully team Rowien (what I’m calling them - unless I have I missed the naming?)
This book is FIERCE. And yes, the capitals are needed. I’m going against my norm with Maria Luis’ books and won’t wax poetic for days. Wait, I will, just not in this particular review. All that needs to be said is you need this book in your life. Without this perfectly written masterpiece of dynamic, mind-blowing, and steamy ball of all the yeses in your life, you are not whole. Dramatic - yes. But true - heck, yes!!!!
Do yourself a favor: click the button, settle in, and read. Just be prepared — you absolutely will have a book hangover in a significant way.
April 4, 2023
This is the first book that I couldn’t finish this year, my first DNF.
Is wasn’t a bad book and definitely not the worst I have read but something really pissed me off : the guy is mean and all with her and suddenly, really out of nowhere he is in love with her and starts saying romantic stuff.
Honestly it was so weird, you turn one page and they’re mad in love and fitting it wtf ? So there was no built up, no transition or suspens.
Obviously this is a romance book we know they are going to end up together and all but this was so out of the blue that really there was no use in reading this anymore.
Maybe I can come back to it later and finish as I think it can still be enjoyable to read it this side apart but so far I’m dreading it.
Is wasn’t a bad book and definitely not the worst I have read but something really pissed me off : the guy is mean and all with her and suddenly, really out of nowhere he is in love with her and starts saying romantic stuff.
Honestly it was so weird, you turn one page and they’re mad in love and fitting it wtf ? So there was no built up, no transition or suspens.
Obviously this is a romance book we know they are going to end up together and all but this was so out of the blue that really there was no use in reading this anymore.
Maybe I can come back to it later and finish as I think it can still be enjoyable to read it this side apart but so far I’m dreading it.
August 6, 2021
Sound of Madness has been my most anticipated read for 2020.
It is incredibly so much more than I have ever expected from Ms. Luis.
She has mentioned that this is the book of her heart. This novel gives her readers EVERYTHING. It is an extremely rich, well written, deviously plotted, entrenching read. It is one that a reader picks up, and struggles to put down.
Ms. Luis starts her novel off in high gear and never, ever lets off the gas.
Sound of Madness is the story of Damien (Godwin) Priest and Rowena Carrigan.
Damien is the youngest of the Priest brothers, and the third in charge of Holyrood - a secret black ops group that has been around for centuries and whose only mission is to keep the monarchy alive.
Rowena is the daughter of the sitting Prime Minister. A man who supported the assassinated king, and wants the king’s daughter off the throne. A decades old friendship with the Queen has Rowena on a razor thin blade between saving the monarchy or throwing in with her father.
Sound of Madness can not be read as a stand alone novel. It is the middle book of the Broken Crown trilogy. Road to Fire does need to be read prior to starting this leg of the Crown journey.
As with Road to Fire, Damien and Rowena reach an ending of sorts within these pages, however be warned that this book closes with an unforeseen cliff hanger.
The characters within this book are beautifully broken and staunchly loyal to their causes. The suspense base of the plot line is strongly and perfectly written. While this series is indeed a dark/suspense romance, Ms. Luis’ book is so strongly written that I would recommend lovers of the Bourne books, Brad Thor and Jack Higgins consider picking up these novels. Ms. Luis’ espionage plot with multiple levels of government, power plays, and secret missions underfoot are on level with masters of this genre. Do not underestimate this book.
Based on the absolute density of the plot and the stunning twists Ms. Luis weaves into this particular story, writing a spoiler free review is a struggle. There were so many times I had to put my reader down and just ask “What has she done?!”
I apologize in advance for keeping to a high level of review, but it is for the better good. I promise.
As hinted at in Road to Fire, Damien is currently under house arrest due to an alleged crime against the crown.
Bounty for his capture is highly publicized and he is listed as a top wanted domestic terrorist.
Damien is also an electronics genius who can make any sort of computer or gadget bend to his will.
His house arrest is mainly the result of his oldest brother, Guy, handing down a mandate that Damien remain hidden on one property. In Guy’s thoughts this is for the safety of his brother. In Damien’s thoughts this is his oldest brother stripping him of what little life he was living to begin with.
Damien IS the Mad Priest. Both Mad in the Evil Genius way and Mad in the unhealthy mental state way. This is a delicate war that Damien wages within himself. A war that bleeds its pain in his pages. The language and imagery are visceral in places.
Rowena is a new character to the Broken Crown world, being introduced to readers in this book.
She’s been best mates with the Queen since they were teens, yet she’s NEVER been listed on any of the Queen’s “safe persons” lists which are provided to the Priest brothers for security reasons.
Her noted absence on these lists is just one of the myriad of reasons that Rowena’s very existence within the Queen’s inner life both puzzles and worries the gentlemen.
Rowena is also the daughter of the Prime Minister. Via the plot we learn that this role comes with an almost insurmountable amount of strings and quite a lack of love or care. Rowena, it seems, is just a puppet and pawn in her father’s layered political chess match. Only to a point however. Rowena’s side of Ms. Luis story is one of immense pain, loss, destruction, and rebirth.
Our story begins with Rowena extracting the Queen from a burning and crumbling Buckingham Palace. While the ladies survive physically, much is lost to them in other ways.
The story is told via shifting points of views with Rowena and Damien both taking us through the events following the destruction of the palace and the arrival of the women at the Priest’s safe house. The characters also share critical pieces of their past and events in those pasts which have molded them to their current day selves.
Both Damien and Rowena can be heartless on the surface. Both are portrayed as driven, broken, unapologetic survivors. These two are a match in mental fortitude, stubbornness to survive even the most damaging blows, and the heart wrenching ability to turn off their needs and emotions to work towards one more day for something outside of themselves.
These traits will bring you tears. Ms. Luis is not kind to her darlings. You will want to tell her that they need a break. Something to go their way. Breathing room. Time. Healing.
Throughout the story we see these two souls stretched and also broken. Many times over. Both are forced to ashes of their former selves through actions they must take to keep Queen and Crown safe.
Both have lost the ability to hope. Both struggle with the concept of faith. Faith in oneself. Faith in another. Faith that there can be change.
The themes in this book run heavy and deep. For all that we watch a tentative relationship and love grow between two fierce operatives, we are also given an amazingly through military suspense story.
There are counter intelligence officers that no one realizes are in play. There are schemes that have been in the making for decades which are revealed layer by layer. For every level of destruction, betrayal, and desecration that the main characters suffer to their own personal stories, the same is given to the over arching story line of secret loyalty and protection to the Crown.
Every time our humans find a moment of breathing space, the Crown is struck a staggering blow. For every fix to the monarchy, our characters kill off more of their souls. Neither of which either had much left to give going into this story.
As with Road to Fire, the reader will finally start to relax, noticing that the pages are growing shorter towards the back cover. They may think “we’re over the worst” and you may be. Or it may be that the worst for NOW has been crossed but there is yet to be a deeper worse yet to come. The devil we know in this trilogy is NOT the devil we appear to be fighting.
There is a quote from Rowena in chapter 33. It reads -
“I’m stronger than you know, stronger than anyone ever realizes. Stronger, even, than I realize.”
This is a quote that struck me while reading. It is now one that I feel in my bones after reading Damien and Rowena’s story.
A good quote to close my rambling review would be from Damien in chapter 27
“Ash rises from the destruction. It hangs like death in the air, drying my throat and stinging my eyes.”
This quote can be used to sum up the large themes of this book.
The image of the Phoenix is used heavily in this novel. The Phoenix is incredible fitting. For what Ms. Luis takes down to ash in her story, she rebirths in a stronger manner. A surprising manner. An unforeseen manner.
I can not stress enough how well written, beautifully illustrative and emotionally driven this trilogy is.
I can not recommend enough that this trilogy be read. It is absolutely a stunning trio of work from a multi faceted talented author.
It is incredibly so much more than I have ever expected from Ms. Luis.
She has mentioned that this is the book of her heart. This novel gives her readers EVERYTHING. It is an extremely rich, well written, deviously plotted, entrenching read. It is one that a reader picks up, and struggles to put down.
Ms. Luis starts her novel off in high gear and never, ever lets off the gas.
Sound of Madness is the story of Damien (Godwin) Priest and Rowena Carrigan.
Damien is the youngest of the Priest brothers, and the third in charge of Holyrood - a secret black ops group that has been around for centuries and whose only mission is to keep the monarchy alive.
Rowena is the daughter of the sitting Prime Minister. A man who supported the assassinated king, and wants the king’s daughter off the throne. A decades old friendship with the Queen has Rowena on a razor thin blade between saving the monarchy or throwing in with her father.
Sound of Madness can not be read as a stand alone novel. It is the middle book of the Broken Crown trilogy. Road to Fire does need to be read prior to starting this leg of the Crown journey.
As with Road to Fire, Damien and Rowena reach an ending of sorts within these pages, however be warned that this book closes with an unforeseen cliff hanger.
The characters within this book are beautifully broken and staunchly loyal to their causes. The suspense base of the plot line is strongly and perfectly written. While this series is indeed a dark/suspense romance, Ms. Luis’ book is so strongly written that I would recommend lovers of the Bourne books, Brad Thor and Jack Higgins consider picking up these novels. Ms. Luis’ espionage plot with multiple levels of government, power plays, and secret missions underfoot are on level with masters of this genre. Do not underestimate this book.
Based on the absolute density of the plot and the stunning twists Ms. Luis weaves into this particular story, writing a spoiler free review is a struggle. There were so many times I had to put my reader down and just ask “What has she done?!”
I apologize in advance for keeping to a high level of review, but it is for the better good. I promise.
As hinted at in Road to Fire, Damien is currently under house arrest due to an alleged crime against the crown.
Bounty for his capture is highly publicized and he is listed as a top wanted domestic terrorist.
Damien is also an electronics genius who can make any sort of computer or gadget bend to his will.
His house arrest is mainly the result of his oldest brother, Guy, handing down a mandate that Damien remain hidden on one property. In Guy’s thoughts this is for the safety of his brother. In Damien’s thoughts this is his oldest brother stripping him of what little life he was living to begin with.
Damien IS the Mad Priest. Both Mad in the Evil Genius way and Mad in the unhealthy mental state way. This is a delicate war that Damien wages within himself. A war that bleeds its pain in his pages. The language and imagery are visceral in places.
Rowena is a new character to the Broken Crown world, being introduced to readers in this book.
She’s been best mates with the Queen since they were teens, yet she’s NEVER been listed on any of the Queen’s “safe persons” lists which are provided to the Priest brothers for security reasons.
Her noted absence on these lists is just one of the myriad of reasons that Rowena’s very existence within the Queen’s inner life both puzzles and worries the gentlemen.
Rowena is also the daughter of the Prime Minister. Via the plot we learn that this role comes with an almost insurmountable amount of strings and quite a lack of love or care. Rowena, it seems, is just a puppet and pawn in her father’s layered political chess match. Only to a point however. Rowena’s side of Ms. Luis story is one of immense pain, loss, destruction, and rebirth.
Our story begins with Rowena extracting the Queen from a burning and crumbling Buckingham Palace. While the ladies survive physically, much is lost to them in other ways.
The story is told via shifting points of views with Rowena and Damien both taking us through the events following the destruction of the palace and the arrival of the women at the Priest’s safe house. The characters also share critical pieces of their past and events in those pasts which have molded them to their current day selves.
Both Damien and Rowena can be heartless on the surface. Both are portrayed as driven, broken, unapologetic survivors. These two are a match in mental fortitude, stubbornness to survive even the most damaging blows, and the heart wrenching ability to turn off their needs and emotions to work towards one more day for something outside of themselves.
These traits will bring you tears. Ms. Luis is not kind to her darlings. You will want to tell her that they need a break. Something to go their way. Breathing room. Time. Healing.
Throughout the story we see these two souls stretched and also broken. Many times over. Both are forced to ashes of their former selves through actions they must take to keep Queen and Crown safe.
Both have lost the ability to hope. Both struggle with the concept of faith. Faith in oneself. Faith in another. Faith that there can be change.
The themes in this book run heavy and deep. For all that we watch a tentative relationship and love grow between two fierce operatives, we are also given an amazingly through military suspense story.
There are counter intelligence officers that no one realizes are in play. There are schemes that have been in the making for decades which are revealed layer by layer. For every level of destruction, betrayal, and desecration that the main characters suffer to their own personal stories, the same is given to the over arching story line of secret loyalty and protection to the Crown.
Every time our humans find a moment of breathing space, the Crown is struck a staggering blow. For every fix to the monarchy, our characters kill off more of their souls. Neither of which either had much left to give going into this story.
As with Road to Fire, the reader will finally start to relax, noticing that the pages are growing shorter towards the back cover. They may think “we’re over the worst” and you may be. Or it may be that the worst for NOW has been crossed but there is yet to be a deeper worse yet to come. The devil we know in this trilogy is NOT the devil we appear to be fighting.
There is a quote from Rowena in chapter 33. It reads -
“I’m stronger than you know, stronger than anyone ever realizes. Stronger, even, than I realize.”
This is a quote that struck me while reading. It is now one that I feel in my bones after reading Damien and Rowena’s story.
A good quote to close my rambling review would be from Damien in chapter 27
“Ash rises from the destruction. It hangs like death in the air, drying my throat and stinging my eyes.”
This quote can be used to sum up the large themes of this book.
The image of the Phoenix is used heavily in this novel. The Phoenix is incredible fitting. For what Ms. Luis takes down to ash in her story, she rebirths in a stronger manner. A surprising manner. An unforeseen manner.
I can not stress enough how well written, beautifully illustrative and emotionally driven this trilogy is.
I can not recommend enough that this trilogy be read. It is absolutely a stunning trio of work from a multi faceted talented author.
December 8, 2020
I feel like this book should come with a warning: be prepared for heartache, utter devastation, betrayal, twists, turns, and a MASSIVE book hangover! May the odds forever be in your favor.
But to be real with you, this book is utter & complete genius. It is beautiful broken madness that will demand your full attention, captivate you, and set your soul ablaze.
Damien is the epitome of an anti-hero. He is tortured, despised, haunted. And he will both rip your heart out & set your veins on fire. Damien, all the ways I want you. Wow. Just wow. He is madness. And I've never craved insanity so completely.
Rowena, she is no shrinking violet. She isn't a damsel in distress, nor is she a princess awaiting rescue. She rescues herself. She holds her own. She is who her men look to for answers, for orders, and the final say. She DEMANDS respect, and is all the more beautiful because of it. Broken. Ruined. But beautiful. She is everything Damien never knew he needed, never even hoped to want.
This book y'all. I thought I was prepared. I thought I was ready to accept & embrace the twists and turns and surprises I knew were coming. But I was so wrong. And I have never been so delighted to be wrong!
You're a bloody genius Maria. Absolutely bloody brilliant. Saxon was amazing, Damien has been my absolute ruin, and I cannot wait to see what Guy has in store for me! Gah!
But to be real with you, this book is utter & complete genius. It is beautiful broken madness that will demand your full attention, captivate you, and set your soul ablaze.
Damien is the epitome of an anti-hero. He is tortured, despised, haunted. And he will both rip your heart out & set your veins on fire. Damien, all the ways I want you. Wow. Just wow. He is madness. And I've never craved insanity so completely.
Rowena, she is no shrinking violet. She isn't a damsel in distress, nor is she a princess awaiting rescue. She rescues herself. She holds her own. She is who her men look to for answers, for orders, and the final say. She DEMANDS respect, and is all the more beautiful because of it. Broken. Ruined. But beautiful. She is everything Damien never knew he needed, never even hoped to want.
This book y'all. I thought I was prepared. I thought I was ready to accept & embrace the twists and turns and surprises I knew were coming. But I was so wrong. And I have never been so delighted to be wrong!
You're a bloody genius Maria. Absolutely bloody brilliant. Saxon was amazing, Damien has been my absolute ruin, and I cannot wait to see what Guy has in store for me! Gah!
December 8, 2020
My words will never be able to do this book justice. Sound Of Madness feels like written art. Every word is another stroke of color, purposely chosen to add depth and life to this masterpiece. Damien Priest is a beautiful, tortured soul and not what I expected him to be at all. He’s not mad, he’s just a man with a broken little boy inside of him. Rowena Carrigan takes badass heroine to a whole other level. She has done things and survives traumatic events that would break even the strongest person, but not her. Rowena and Damien certainly don’t belong together but that makes their union even more dangerously delicious. They are both desperate for the connection and you can feel the yearning and heat coming off the page. This story is dark and bloody, intriguing and twisty. There’s a lot going on and a lot of information to digest but I never felt lost. But, you have to read book one, Road To Fire, to get the full story. This book ends with a bit of a cliffhanger and I’m already dying to know how Maria is going to wrap up this epic trilogy! I can’t wait! All the stars for Sound Of Madness ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“If war is hell, then love is carnage, and the blood that’s spilled belongs to us both.”
I was provided an arc to read and review.
“If war is hell, then love is carnage, and the blood that’s spilled belongs to us both.”
I was provided an arc to read and review.
December 9, 2020
Where RTF had a slow build, Sound of Madness jumped right into the fire, all pun intended.
Things were popping off on the first page.
Maria Luis kept that intensity throughout the story. I never could guess what was coming next. She had me literally on the edge with anticipation. She also tore my heart out at times because Rowena and Damien’s story had some strong emotional feels. Speaking of...Rowena had fire and spunk and I couldn’t stop cheering in my head for her. She gave as good as she got and refused to be bested. Her fierceness was everything that tested Damien but at the same time perfect for him.
Oh my and Damien...that man...it’s hard to find the words because he was like an onion. Soo many layers to him...hidden beneath the man known as The Mad Priest was a man full of heart. So much heart and hidden truths and passion and love. But, what I can’t get past is that freaking ending!! Maria Luis that is just cruel!
Things were popping off on the first page.
Maria Luis kept that intensity throughout the story. I never could guess what was coming next. She had me literally on the edge with anticipation. She also tore my heart out at times because Rowena and Damien’s story had some strong emotional feels. Speaking of...Rowena had fire and spunk and I couldn’t stop cheering in my head for her. She gave as good as she got and refused to be bested. Her fierceness was everything that tested Damien but at the same time perfect for him.
Oh my and Damien...that man...it’s hard to find the words because he was like an onion. Soo many layers to him...hidden beneath the man known as The Mad Priest was a man full of heart. So much heart and hidden truths and passion and love. But, what I can’t get past is that freaking ending!! Maria Luis that is just cruel!
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