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Sabre Security #2

Skeletal Hearts

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It’s time to pray.
Repeat after me.

Lord Almighty, have mercy on me.
Free me from my sins.

Freedom.
That’s the first lie I swallowed.

Haunted by ghosts and the secrets they carry, I’m being eaten alive by guilt. Pastor Michaels’ reign of terror will continue until I surrender myself to him.

We’re fighting an invisible enemy that speaks the language of violence. Allies have become enemies, and new faces are threatening to derail my life.

Someone’s keeping secrets.
My control is fraying.

With Sabre Security under fire, I have to find the truth before it’s too late. If not for my sake, then for the men that stole my heart and refuse to give it back.

They say that family is forever.
Ours is about to be put to the test.

Author’s Note: Skeletal Hearts (Sabre Security #2) is book two in a slow burn, contemporary reverse harem romance series set in the same universe as Blackwood Institute.

538 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2023

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About the author

J. Rose

22 books1,227 followers
J Rose is an independent dark romance author from the United Kingdom. She writes challenging, plot-driven stories packed full of angst, heartbreak and broken characters fighting for their happily ever afters.

She’s an introverted bookworm at heart with a caffeine addiction, penchant for cursing and an unhealthy attachment to fictional characters.

Feel free to reach out on social media, J Rose loves talking to her readers!

Enquiries: j_roseauthor@yahoo.com

Stalk J Rose here:
www.jroseauthor.com/socials

Newsletter sign up:
www.jroseauthor.com/socials

Buy J Rose's books:
www.jroseauthor.com/books

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Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,340 reviews9,356 followers
September 1, 2023
thumbnail-IMG-0079-2-copy-2-1 MY REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on my blog:
╰┈➤KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS

📚 𝐒𝐊𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐒 📚 Is the second full length RH romance novel in the (Sabre Security) series by J. Rose. Spoken in 'multiple perspectives. This needs to be read in order to better understand the storyline and characters.

After that crappy cliffy in the previous book with her father turning up on the guys doorstep I needed answers!! So without pausing I dived straight into this one.

This picked up right where the previous book left off. Both parents at odds, one discrediting the other, which one do you believe?

I had my theories. I’d kind of guessed what had transpired with Harlow’s kidnapping and who was responsible, but it still came with a few twists I didn’t see coming.

Twists and turns which left me gasping in there wake.

And so their journey continues, Harlow, Leighton, Hunter, Enzo, & Theo slowly coming into the fold at his own pace.

Harlow is still irrevocably broken, pulled in every direction, self harming to block out the terrors, the guys are her saviour, each at their own pace claiming her, loving her.

Hunter has a few obstacles he has to overcome in this one as he pushes those he loves away, barely communicating, barely holding on by a thread.

But still even after all this time with them trying to chase down the serial killer pastor Michaels is still free, but we have more background info about this guy and where it all started. Now it's just a case of putting all the pieces together.

Hurrying off to one click the next book to see how it all unravels.

 
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Profile Image for Debbie Webb.
227 reviews11 followers
February 23, 2023
“You can’t fight all my battles for me.” “But I can hold your hand while you fight for yourself. I’ll do everything in my power to make this easier for you.” ~ Skeletal Hearts 🖤📖💀

Holy sh*t! This book was a freaking masterpiece! Check TWs!

Skeletal Hearts is the second book in the Sabre Security series and is not a standalone. Gah, this freaking series has me in a chokehold.

I loved seeing everyone open up more in this book. Especially Theo, he has been through so much sadness and heartbreak. I love how he has started to lower his walls around Harlow. He’s such a sweet guy and I can’t wait to see how their relationship progresses in the third and final book.

Leighton is like the glue that keeps this group going. He always brings a smile to everyone’s face and he may seem like he’s all jokes, but deep down he brings the best out in everyone. Harlow of course really keeps the group together but, as I said without Leighton there wouldn’t be that bright light in their group.

Enzo is just a big teddy bear. He’s protective and very possessive of Harlow, but he’s also so freaking sweet. I just love how supportive he is of everyone. His love for his family is so nice to see.

Hunter. My poor guy Hunter has been through pure hell. He has this tough guy exterior, but he’s really just someone who cares and loves so deeply. He’s afraid to let anyone in after losing so much in his life. He finally starts to realize that it’s okay let everyone love Harlow as much as he does.

Harlow has been through so much crap in her life. There’s still a lot of things she doesn’t remember and with that comes unwelcome memories that hit her in random waves. She definitely has a rough time with her mental health in this book and understandably so. I loved her character development in the second half of the story.

As always, J. Rose never disappoints and is such a fantastic writer. This book has so many twists and turns in it that I really didn’t expect. I felt so many different things while reading Skeletal Hearts. I laughed, cried, and wanted to throw my kindle at least twice… *I wouldn’t actually* 🤣 This book broke my heart and slowly stitched it back together. The plot was fantastic and I can’t wait to see how this series ends! The character development was so great in this one. I loved seeing everyone start to really except their feelings for Harlow and start to open up more.

As I always say, I could go on and on about this series. I won’t though. NO SPOILERS. Just. Go. And. Read. This. Series. NOW. 💀

Definitely a five star read for me!
Thank you so much for providing me with an ARC!
Profile Image for Kade Gulluscio.
956 reviews55 followers
March 10, 2023
Where do I even start?
J Rose is absolutely brilliant in all the best ways. Her Twisted Heathens series is one of my alltime favorites, and I didn't think she could truly top that series in my heart. But this definitely comes close. The plot is SO unique.
The world-building in the entire series is just so good. The character development? I can't even put into words how good. I feel like I KNOW every character personally now. haha.
None of the relationships felt forced or weird. The main characters dynamics and relationships all progressed at different paces that was true to their personalities, which is something I love about this series.
Harlow is still.. fairly broken in this book, but she's continuing to grow, become more independent and confident, but still fairy needy. The boys all have their own damage and issues, but Harlow helps them see their worth and continue on, just like they help her.
I truly cannot wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Alskha.
139 reviews1 follower
July 2, 2023
Oh, man what was that? I love story but the relationship between them is even worse than in the first book. Enzo and Hunter are patronizing and controlling assholes. The other two are just standing by and letting them take advantage of her wtf.
Profile Image for Kates.
79 reviews22 followers
March 1, 2023
ahhhh so many emotions, so much love for these characters

this book was a lot. a lot of twists, yes, my jaw did drop. a lot of banter, yes, I did giggle. a lot of tragedy, but also a lot of heart. the immersive world and characters envelop you into the story and transport you to be a part of a complicated, but heartwarming found family.

admittedly, the romance does slow down in this one as the characters come to terms with their relationship dynamics and their feelings, but it was no less satisfying, hot and cute. This book had me giggling and almost crying all in one swoop. and all the hurt/comfort scenes made my heart melt.

also, small note, the Blackwood Institute harem features a lot in this book, as if I couldn't love them any more, but I wanted to highlight Eli. He shone so bright in this book, my good baby, I adored him here. (you don't have to have read BI before this series, but I highly recommend it, I love them)

I've adored everything that J Rose has written so far, and this book solidifies her status as one of my most trusted authors. itching for the next book already, totally not impatiently

- reverse harem (x4)
- criminal investigation setting
- healing from trauma
- found family
- hurt/comfort
- complicated relationships
- twisty plot, a serial killer case unfolding
- book 2 in a trilogy
Profile Image for Laura Fabian.
468 reviews42 followers
March 5, 2023
I received this copy as part of J. Rose Street Team and am writing this review voluntarily & honestly

⚠️This review may contain spoilers from the previous book in Sabre Security⚠️


J. Rose never ceases to amaze and made me fall in love with each book! And although I didn't know what to expect from Skeletal Hearts, I LOVED the direction the plot took, the growth that all the characters had throughout the book, but especially Hunter, Leighton & Theo, the great revelations behind Harlow's story and everything the author made me feel with her characters.

I think Hunter surprised me the most in this book, particularly since I read him at Blackwood Institute it wasn't my favorite, BUT in Skeletal Hearts his character's story takes a 360° turn that is totally unexpected, it broke my heart so much and also helped me see his vulnerable, fearful side and that he doesn't have to be strong for everyone all the time. Also, I really liked the dynamics of his relationship with Harlow in this book and how it progressed little by little.

Continuing with the Rodriguez brothers, Leigh was another character who grew a lot in this book: J. Rose gave us more of his relationship with his parents, his feelings about them after he got out of prison, and the events that led to him losing his freedom in the first place, but I think what I loved most was learning more about the dynamics of his relationship with Hunter, how Leighton is forced to grow up when his older brother needs him, and Leigh confronts everything he has felt towards his brother throughout his life, something that made me suffer for both of them, but that I also really liked getting to know, and what can I say about how cute he is with Harlow, and the fun fights he has with Enzo & Theo! I love it.

One of the things I LOVED most about Skeletal Hearts was reading so much more from Theo, who is a bit of my favourite: it was painful to read him totally immersed in his mourning for Alyssa since Corpse Roads and quite liberating to see him gradually coming out of that dark place, gradually returning to her family and allowing himself to feel things for Harlow, even though there is a risk of hurting again. And I have to say, I loved the twist that J. Rose gave the story with Theodore about what he enjoys in sex 👌😍 and now I can't wait to read more of his scenes with Harlow.

Who also has a GREAT journey through this book: something that I always really enjoyed about this author's books is the way she shows the hard process of recovery & healing of her characters, and Harlow is no exception, she goes through ups and downs all the time, her mind sets traps for her that sometimes she can't identify, her fight to discover the truth behind her kidnapping, how exhausting is for her, but how she always shows the strength she has inside, her desire to be happy with the boys and her ability to find the answers she needs.

Finally, I think that Enzo is the most stable character of these five, with that I do not mean that he is a flat or boring character, he is a strong, dominant, loyal man, who loves & protects his family and is not ashamed to show his most tender and loving side to them. Also, I believe that in Skeletal Hearts the responsibility and protection of his family rests with him, and he does the job in the best possible way: guiding Leigh and helping him grow, pulling Harlow & Hunter out of the dark hole they find themselves in again and again, and making Theo feel comfortable rejoining the family, he was the best!

🩸Hunter: 5/5
🩸Enzo: 5/5
🩸Harlow: 5/5
🩸Theo: 5/5
🩸Leigh: 5/5
🩸Plot: 5/5
🩸Love story: 5/5
🩸Secondary characters: 5/5
🩸Cover: 5/5
🩸Universe: 5/5
🌶️: 4/5

🇪🇸
Recibí esta copia como parte del Street Team de J. Rose y estoy escribiendo esta reseña de forma voluntaria & honesta

⚠️Esta reseña puede contener spoilers del libro anterior de Sabre Security⚠️


J. Rose no deja de sorprenderme y enamorarme con cada libro! Y aunque no sabía que esperar de Skeletal Hearts, AMÉ la dirección que tomo la trama, el crecimiento que tuvieron todos los personajes a lo largo del libro, pero especialmente Hunter, Leighton & Theo, las grandes revelaciones detrás de la historia de Harlow y todo lo que la autora me hizo sentir junto a sus personajes.

Creo que Hunter fue quien más me sorprendió en este libro, particularmente porque, desde que lo leí en Blackwood Institute no fue mi favorito, PERO en Skeletal Hearts la historia de su personaje da un giro de 360° que es totalmente inesperado, rompió muchísimo mi corazón y también me ayudó a ver su lado vulnerable, temeroso y que no tiene que ser fuerte para todos todo el tiempo. Además, me gustó mucho la dinámica de su relación con Harlow en este libro y como ésta fue progresando poco a poco.

Siguiendo con los hermanos Rodriguez, Leigh fue otro personaje que creció muchísimo en este libro: J. Rose nos mostro más de su relación con sus padres, sus sentimientos sobre ellos después de salir de prisión y los hechos que lo llevaron a perder su libertad en primer lugar, pero creo que lo que más amé fue saber más de la dinámica de su relación con Hunter, como Leighton se ve obligado a crecer cuando su hermano mayor lo necesita y Leigh afronta todo lo que ha sentido hacia él a lo largo de toda su vida, algo que me hizo sufrir por los dos, pero que también me gustó mucho conocer, y que decir de lo lindo que es con Harlow, y las peleas tan divertidas que tiene con Enzo & Theo!

Una de las cosas que más AMÉ de Skeletal Hearts fue leer mucho más de Theo, que es un poco mi favorito: fue doloroso leerlo totalmente sumergido en su duelo por Alyssa desde Corpse Roads y bastante liberador ver como sale poco a poco de ese lugar oscuro, como regresa gradualmente con su familia y se permite sentir cosas por Harlow, aun cuando existe el riesgo de lastimarse de nuevo. Y tengo que decir que me encantó el giro que J. Rose le dio a la historia con Theodore respecto a lo que él disfruta en el sexo 👌😍 y ahora no puedo esperar a leer más de sus escenas con Harlow.

Quien también tiene un GRAN viaje a lo largo de este libro: algo que siempre disfrutó mucho de los libros de ésta autora es la forma en la que muestra el duro proceso de recuperación & sanación de sus personajes, y con Harlow no es la excepción, pasa por altos y bajos todo el tiempo, su mente le pone trampas que a veces no puede identificar y su lucha por descubrir la verdad detrás de su secuestro es agotadora para ella, pero siempre demuestra la fortaleza que tiene dentro, sus ganas de ser feliz al lado de los chicos y su capacidad de encontrar las respuestas que necesita.

Finalmente, creo que Enzo es el personaje con el carácter más estable de estos cinco, con eso no quiero decir que sea un personaje plano o aburrido, es un hombre fuerte, dominante, leal, que ama & protege a su familia y que no se avergüenza de mostrar su lado más tierno y amoroso con ellos. Además, creo que en Skeletal Hearts la responsabilidad y protección de su familia recae en él, y hace el trabajo de la mejor manera posible, guiando a Leigh y ayudándolo a crecer, sacando a Harlow & Hunter del hoyo oscuro en el que se encuentran una y otra vez, y haciendo a Theo sentirse cómodo uniéndose de nuevo a la familia.

🩸Hunter: 5/5
🩸Enzo: 5/5
🩸Harlow: 5/5
🩸Theo: 5/5
🩸Leigh: 5/5
🩸Trama: 5/5
🩸Historia de amor: 5/5
🩸Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🩸Portada: 5/5
🩸Universo: 5/5
🌶️: 4/5
Profile Image for Lee.
467 reviews59 followers
July 27, 2023
I’m choosing to stop after this one, knowing the truth of Harlow’s abduction is enough for me. I assume there will be closure when they catch him, and I don’t want to put up with another book of cat and mouse before it’s resolved.

My biggest issues with this story is still the romantic relationship(s). While I personally enjoy reading about domineering men, it’s really unsettling within this context and I have a hard time believing that she wouldn’t be triggered by the way they treat her (in and out of bed). I don’t like how obsessed they are with her “innocence” knowing why she’s like that, and I don’t like that she and Hunter actively used kink as a means of self harming.

Overall I feel that I have enough closure with the plot to leave it here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Christie.
621 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2023
Meh. This is now officially dragging. Book is too wordy and too long. I skimmed pages just to get on with the story. Not sure I even want to read the next as I’m annoyed at how long it takes to catch one bad guy. For a bunch of badass dudes with badass skills, they don’t have a ton to show for it.
Profile Image for Demi.
104 reviews14 followers
February 27, 2023
“𝐖𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐬. 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧, 𝐰𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞.”

Sabre Security Book II

What to expect:
🩸Serial killer investigation
🩸Why choose
🩸Slow burn
🩸Found family
🩸Overcoming trauma
🩸 Protective harem

Firstly if you haven’t read corpse roads book one refer back to my review. https://www.instagram.com/p/ClJwVt0rAZ0/

Following on from book one Skeletal Hearts picks right back up where it was left off.
Harlow trying to figure out everything, her past, her trauma, her feelings. HER.

𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐤.

Whilst the men at Sabre Security are trying to solve the most challenging case they’ve had & protecting the woman that’s fast becoming their world. A lot goes to shit.

Everyone is trying to just stay a float.

𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐞’𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨𝐨 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭. 𝐍𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐰𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐲.

My heart for this world, the characters. 🥺 The character development individually & relationships wise is just perfect. The most perfect angst slow burn all happening organically. There was so many scenes in this I got so attached to. J done it again. Loved loved loved.

The last quote I’m going to use is actually from J’s acknowledgements and it’s perfect:

𝐖𝐞’𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬, 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐧𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 (𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬, 𝐧𝐨 𝐣𝐮𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭) 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐠𝐨.

Rating: 4.25 Stars
Profile Image for Laura (lady_h_reads).
536 reviews167 followers
March 1, 2023
The guys are determined to protect me from the world. I love and appreciate their care, but they don’t seem to realise I also need protection from them.

I loved book one in this series, and book two, Skeletal Hearts, does not disappoint! What J Rose does so well is write characters with emotional damage without trying to sugarcoat them to make them more palatable to readers. She leaves them raw, forgoing a glossy patina, to entice greater feelings of compassion toward them. And I love how real each character’s pain feels. This book puts your heart through its paces.

Harlow is such a unique character—a shattered soul trying to hold herself together. Love-starved and broken, battling her ghosts and severe survivor’s guilt, she copes with her traumas the best way she knows how. It is heartbreaking to see her falter, but she still grabs hold of bits of joy. The men who love her want to keep her safe but end up smothering her in the process.

This book is highly plot-driven, but there is no lack of steam. It is slow/medium-burn with loads of tension, insane amounts of dirty talk, and some first times. MF and MFM scenes only, no sword crossing.

We get to spend some quality time with our favorites from the Blackwood Institute series, which only elevates the reading experience—one favorite series merging with another. I can see Harlow and Brooklyn getting matching BFF tattoos while the gang watches with varying degrees of dismay (or joy).

We aren’t left at the cliff���s edge with this one, which might relieve some of you. We stop a little before, peeking over. I cannot wait for the next book!

This is a DARK romance with potentially triggering content. Please view the TW/CW before reading.
Profile Image for _charreads.
458 reviews51 followers
February 20, 2023
“None of us are going anywhere. We have a lot of shit to sort out between us, but that fact won’t ever change.” “Do you promise?” “Want me to cross my fucking heart?” “If you’re offering.”

I fell in love with J Rose’ blackwood institute world instantly, the characters, the story line, the world building and I didn’t think anything could top that/ I didn’t think I’d be able to feel similar about another series, until this one.
The world and characters that have been created within these stories will always and forever have a special place in my heart.

This is the second book within this series and I can hand on my heart say, it was even better than the first book. This is book 2/3 of the series so please be aware, it does end on a cliff hanger but it was so worth it.

Similar to the first book, the second made me realise how much of an emotional wreck I can become. I probably should have started to tally chart how many times I cried but it could have also done a tally chart of how much I fell in love with everything about this book.

The character building from book one to two is absolutely perfect, every character has grown and changed in some way due to situations the group face within this story and no matter what they come face to face with time and time again, their bond and love for each other grows each time and no matter what happens, they will do absolutely anything to help one another, especially Harlow.

Some of the situations within this story and what happens after are hard to read but I also feel as though they have been written thoroughly and realistically. I personally think this is very important when tackling sensitive issues and it is obvious research and thought has gone into this which I can do nothing short of applaud the effort which J Rose has put into her writing.

Normally with a Reverse Harem book, I have an obvious heart throb who steals me away from the rest (Shout out to my little Eli🖤) but I am shocked to say, I can’t pick between these guys. They come as a pair/unit. I don’t have a favourite.

I was so sad for this story to end but I’m so excited for their final story to begin - I am ready to be Leighton’s Clark Kent.

Profile Image for Zoe_isreading.
542 reviews37 followers
February 28, 2023
As with everything J Rose writes, this didn't disappoint at all. I stayed up late reading it, and again like with all of her books - I'll be thinking about this one for ages.

Harlow and her men go through a lot within this book, you'll be turning those pages faster than you would of expected you could to get to the revelations in this. A fantastic read.
Profile Image for Christine G..
139 reviews3 followers
March 4, 2023
I'm blown away.... I can't say enough wonderful things about this series. The subject matter is dark, twisted and effed up. Check your trigger warnings. I appreciate that this book deals with the trauma, the PTSD and the constant battle to get better. Most series just glaze over the healing process and find our main characters suddenly moving on with their lives very unrealistically. This author does her characters and their stories justice by giving us a front row seat to the brutal obstacles still in their way. It is real, edgy and not for the feint of heart. I shed several tears during this book because these characters have me rooting for them. I want them so desperately to have their HEA, but they have a lot of healing to do before they get there. Not to mention a religious fanatic to chase down and bring to justice.

P.s. the only thing that irked me was a character called Rosetta Stone.... cause all I kept fixating on was the super famous online language teaching program of the same name...
July 18, 2023
Suspend belief- small spoilers

This book was pretty slow compared to book 1, and I had some real issues with the relationships here. Firstly, her trauma is so severe that she completely disassociates and loses time, has severe panic attacks, was subject to watching grotesque sexual assault and murder, not to mention her own physical and psychological assault. Yet I'm expected to believe that sex with domineering alpha males is her thing? No! These men (aside from Theo) are awful for her. They're locking her in another cage and she is aware and railing against it.

The FMC does some incredibly stupid things here but it's somewhat understandable. What isn't understandable is the fact she isn't at an inpatient facility. She's constantly self harming, she disassociates frequently, has severe panic attacks, physically attacks multiple people, and has severe bouts of rage. She definitely should've been institutionalized for her own safety and no therapist worth their salt, would've allowed her to remain in this situation for any length of time.

I want to know how the story ends, but I just don't think I can continue onto book 3.
Profile Image for Kricketland.
601 reviews10 followers
February 20, 2023
TITLE: Skeletal Hearts
GENRE: Dark Romance
AUTHOR: J Rose
TROPE: Why-Choose, Suspense, Serial K!ller
TYPE: Series (Sabre Security Book 2)
POV: Multiple POV
MY RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5

⚠️ Check the trigger warning if you are sensitive to any topics; +18 Readers ⚠️

Wow, Skeletal Hearts is quite the angst-filled ride. The Sabre Security Series is everything dark romance lovers are looking for. I enjoy so many things about this cast of characters, and I also love Harlow's blooming friendship with Brooklyn and her men from the Blackwood Institute series. The hunt is still on for Pastor Michaels while Hunter, Theo, Enzo and Leighton all struggle with their pasts while trying to break down Harlow's walls. I love the dynamic between Harlow, Hunter, Theo, Enzo & Leighton and the emotions the storyline brings out of me. I found myself once again gripped by this storyline and can't wait for the next installment in the series. Skeletal Hearts is easily a 5 / 5 Star read, in my opinion.
Profile Image for Chey.
260 reviews6 followers
February 25, 2023
And we return to this wonderful series… I need to say: loved this book, even frustrated with Harlow sometimes.
Continuing in the first book, Harlow finds herself battling with her inner thoughts and demons, at the same time she finds her place between the guys. In this book we have a few explanations about Theo's past and why he was the most isolated of them. Also, I loved (or better saying- loved more than the first book) Leighton and the whole personality of his and the relationship that he built with Harlow. Enzo surprised me with his whole dominance (against the careful way he treated Harlow in the past). Hunter… Well, I didn't manage to empathize with him yet, but the little glimpses of him in the final was great. Harlow frustrated me sometimes, but I understood why some stupids decisions were made. The book is amazing, and I can’t wait to see how the final would be.
Profile Image for queen_of_the_books_18.
851 reviews225 followers
March 13, 2023
I will not let you give up, not in a million years.
You can’t fight all my battles for me.
But I can hold your hand while you fight for yourself. I’ll do everything in my power to make it easier for you.

Skeletal Hearts is book two in the Sabre security series and they must be read in order. As per usual with J Rose’s books please search up trigger warnings. J Rose puts her characters through the ringer and then some!

Some triggers include rape, graphic abuse and assault, serial killer on the loose, religious abuse and self harm to just name a few.

This book just cemented my love for Leighton and Theo! I wanted to smack Enzo and Hunter up the side of the head SO many times.

I can’t wait to see how J Rose concludes things with book three. Such an action packed, why choose romance.
Profile Image for Felicia.
1,800 reviews95 followers
March 6, 2023
Skeletal Hearts by J Rose is a dark reverse harem romance. This is the second book in the Sabre Security series.

I absolutely love J Rose's books! I was pulled in from the first chapter and couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. I am loving the relationship that is being built between Harlow, Leighton, Hunter, Enzo, and Theo. I really enjoyed getting all of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.

I can’t wait for the next book in the series Hollow Veins to be released on July 21, 2023, so I can get the rest of their story.

I would highly recommend this book if you like dark romances, contemporary romances, reverse harem romances, or romantic suspense.
Profile Image for booklover1816.
347 reviews46 followers
February 19, 2023
Skeletal Hearts is book #2 in the Sabre Security series. Definitely make sure to read the trigger warning as there’s some really heavy topics discussed and dealt with. It also must be read after Corpse Roads.

Theo has finally come around to the idea of Harlow. I love how he’s lowering his walls and opening up. I cannot wait to see more of these two together as the tease in this book made me gasp and crave more.

Enzo is the protective and possessive teddy bear. Although in the bedroom, just call him sir 🥵

Hunter. My poor man Hunt. The leader and protector just can’t seem to catch a break. Even though he goes through some really tough obstacles, he has his brothers and Harlow, so I know he’ll be alright in the end.

Leighton is the light of the group, there’s no doubt about it. Harlow might be keeping the group together, but Leigh sure is helping. With his jokes and laughter he puts a smile on everyone’s face and I absolutely adore that!

I love all of the characters and I’ve been super excited seeing each of their relationships with Harlow progress. Some not as fast as others but that's what makes it so enticing, to watch everyone evolve and grow. We also finally, get some steam and although most of the scenes are MF, there is a smattering of MFM thrown in the mix.

Like in her previous books, J Rose leaves us at a cliffy. This one isn’t as bad as book one’s, but it is enough that I need book three now because I need to see how it all ends!
Profile Image for Victoria Weston.
820 reviews46 followers
July 19, 2023
This is the second book in this series Sabre Security and it's a dark reverse harem romance book and it carries on from where the last book finished.

Harlow is still really struggling with her new way of life and the guilt is very real. The guys are trying like her to find the pastor before he can hurt anyone else but there finding this very difficult. Harlow and the guys are are healing each other in the own different ways
Harlow has made an impact on the guys in more ways than one and they are not willing to ever let her go. Harlow is starting to remember small snippets of her abduction and more secrets are about to be revealed.

This is book 2 and these books must be read in order to follow Harlows story and all that she is going through. I just love how this author makes her characters so real and I loved the relationship between them all. I love that we also get to see more of the guys and all there own struggles and they are together with her.

Hunter, Enzo, Theo and Leighton are all different and I loved the characters development with each of these guys too.
This book is full of suspense, twists and turns and nail biting moments and tons of angst and I couldn't put it down. The story line is amazing and I love how this author writes and her style of writing grips me. This book does end on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Ines.
896 reviews22 followers
February 21, 2023
*6 star review

"Skeletal Hearts" is the second book in the Sabre Security series and I can't find the words to describe how much I loved this book. I fell in love with the characters in book one, and now I felt a ton of emotions alongside them. There is so much heartbreak, loss and mourning within this book that I felt completely heartbroken at times. But there is also love, healing and laughter; just enough to see that tiny sliver of hope these characters desperately need to keep going. For me, a five star rating isn't enough to show how brilliant I believe this book is, and how much I am desperate for the final book in this trilogy.

While this book is filled with emotions, there is also plenty of action and some of the twists and turns truly caught me by surprise. Even though I can't imagine anyone going through these events in real life, there is a truth involved that you can't deny these kind of things happen in real life. And I'm not just talking about one man who does unspeakable things, but I'm especially talking about how the people respond to it.

Honestly: I am blown away by this book and while I can't wait for book three, I also pre-ordered the boxset of the previous book this author wrote to help me deal with the waiting.
Profile Image for Sara.
177 reviews58 followers
February 23, 2024
This is my review for all 3 books in this series.

I have been so nervous about starting this series because I love as in loooove Blackwood Institute. But of course I should have known there was nothing to worry about because J Rose absolutely smashed it.

I don't think anything will beat Blackwood Institute, I mean it's no. 2 on my all time favorites list and I don't see anything knocking it off the podium anytime soon.

But this was so good. I was so happy to be semi back in this world. I enjoyed seeing old characters again. More importantly I enjoyed this new world of J Rose's.

Usually in books I like the male character more than the girl, but here I loved Harlow so much. I loved seeing her grow. She went from quiet and scared to strong, resilient and brave. She was damn brave, she didn't think twice about sacrificing herself to save those she loved and I was so here for it.

I loved the guys too of course. I think Leighton was my favorite. He was so sweet and funny. I felt like each of the guys gave something to Harlow that she needed in order to grow into herself.

I'm sad this whole world is over but man have I enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Brandi-Lynn Weiser.
1,473 reviews47 followers
March 1, 2023
Skeletal Hearts, book 2 in the Sabre Security series is pure fire!! This book sucks you in immediately & you’re not gonna want to put it down. You’ll want to laugh, cry & maybe throw your phone at some point, but you’ll definitely love it all! It picks right up f/book 1 & the action doesn’t stop! And the freaking cliffhanger?! I am so addicted to this series.
Harlow has been through hell, & she’s still struggling w/her memories. But I loved seeing her grow in this book. And the guys! Where do I start… they’re all so different. It was good to get a little backstory w/Theo. But each guy has such a different personality, but together they all fit perfectly. They each being something to their group, but they all have one common purpose- they want to protect Harlow.
Each guy has a different relationship w/Harlow, & it was great watching each one evolve & grow.
I’m hoping maybe we get some group scenes in book 3! I can’t wait for the final book in this series! And I definitely can’t recommend this series enough!!
Profile Image for mia.
557 reviews262 followers
March 4, 2023
(Thank you Peachy Keen and the author J. Rose for the eARC in exchange for a spoiler free review)

Please check trigger warnings before reading.

Another 4 star read! This series has been absolutely rocking so far, J never lets us down.

This book was plot heavy, a lot of the spaces left behind in Book 1 were filled up with the reveals and it was so good to read. There was some context about the past and it wasn’t just world building, the characters also grew and there was more development to them individually and as a harem.

It was a slow burn which was frustrating at times but the cameos from Blackwood Institute’s characters somehow made the series more charming. When I first met Hunter in BWI it wasn’t exactly impactful enough but I know understand him better and my heart is all for his bravery.

A little sad that this series is ending but I am so pumped for the next book!

Sabre Security ratings
Corpse Roads
Skeletal Hearts - 4 ⭐

Blackwood Institute ratings
Twisted Heathens
Sacrificial Sinners
Profile Image for Ms Cat's World.
991 reviews10 followers
March 3, 2023
Merging Revelations

Harlow (Leticia) imprisoned by the deranged and mentally diseased Pastor and his wife, her life caged and in fear. Prologue gives the backstory of the horrific day that started it all.

From her father struggling to live, to the psychopathic Pastor taunting Harlow and the nation with deaths, to her four saviors pushing and pulling her emotions, mind and body... driving her to the brink.

Hunter, leader of Sabre Security 🙄 alpha-hole
Enzo, second in command and the enforcer❤️‍🔥
Leighton, Hunter's criminal brother 💯
Theo team techie 💋

Wanting, hoping, wishing for another chance at love, another chance to feel complete. Unable to put their past behind them and let Harlow live freely 💔

Emotions run rampant in this highly plot driven series 😬. Quite a bit of merging with the author's Blackwood Institute characters 🤩 Answers are definitely given, not all, but revelations are made ❣️❣️❣️
Profile Image for aida.
445 reviews36 followers
March 9, 2023
I did like this book, and I enjoyed seeing the relationships grow and the mystery continue to unfold.
I was pleasantly surprised that the author decided to go in the direction that she did with our FMC's parents - I felt the vibes immediately in the first book and was glad my instincts were right.

I don't really have too much to say here - it's a good book and if you're into dark romances, especially ones where we've got a serial killer on the loose, then I think you'll like this.

I also am fond of our FMC and her struggling to work through her trauma. I think it's realistic and reasonable given the time frame, and I appreciate that the author didn't try to make her just 'get over it' quickly like you sometimes see in books where our FMC is severely traumatized.

My main complaint is that I feel like we jump around a bit too much time-wise between scenes, and it can make it a little difficult to follow.
Profile Image for My_book_obsession24.
508 reviews24 followers
August 14, 2023
The second book started where the first one finished, and im ever more consumed by J Rose,Sabre security series!!

I just can't stop myself reading non stop, without pause, that's how much I'm obsessed and blown away.
J Rose multiple time already left me with my heart in my mouth, literally absorbed in Harlow world,and her men.
Enzo,Hunter, Leighton and Theo are totally smitten by Harlow and will do anything for her.
Each of them have different personality, but together they will do anything to protect they're women, no matter what.
Harlow in this book reveal secrets andd twist, that her lost memory was hiding from her,and when in the end I was thinking that finally the goddam devil himself is captured, this mothurfucking sadist escape.
Now I excited, to read the last book and to find out what is going to happen next, but in the same time I'm so sad that is going to be my last book of them🤧🤧.
Profile Image for Kristen.
474 reviews7 followers
February 18, 2023
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘢 𝘩𝘢𝘪𝘳'𝘴 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘵𝘩 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘢𝘥 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘶𝘱𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘸 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘶𝘴.

The tides are turning in Skeletal Hearts. There is sooo much to unpack in this book. The eludious killer Pastor Michaels is ramping up his actions where Harlow is concerned. He wants her back and is willing to risk it all. The revelations in the case are shocking, to put it mildly.

Harlow's growth from the beginning of Corpse Roads to the end of Skeletal Hearts is huge. I'm talking Grand Canyon size strides, both physically and mentally, but not without their share of setbacks. The guys are also tested with just how much they can handle, getting hit in every single direction where it hurts. Will the five be able to handle the weight of everything, or will it crush them with no hope left of surviving?
Profile Image for Erica Rogers.
524 reviews17 followers
February 28, 2023
We pick off where we left off from Corpse Roads, where Harlow now is just in a constant mental battle. The guys are all treating her like she is something fragile and she just wants to live and be included.

We really explore her different relationships with each of the guys in this one. I love how unique her connection is with each of them. And we learned last book, that sharing a girl is not something new to them, so they already know how to handle it in oh so many ways. We also just explore the depths of all the characters in general. I feel like missing pieces to who they are were answered or heading in that direction.

This story is absolutely gripping and engaging and immersive. The second I realized there was going to be a book three I squealed and immediately messaged the author in excitement because I am not ready to let this story or these characters go.

If you are not easily triggered start at the first book and go in blind. But please note there are some very dark themed triggers for this series so if you need to, check before reading. It’s the perfect break in all the sunny small town I have been reading and needed.
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