Conscience

Bellator Saga #2

by Cecilia London

An escape plan foiled…

A determined woman…

One last tiny sliver of hope...

Jack will find me.

The Fed wants answers. And Caroline is determined not to provide them. They pull out all the stops, testing her sanity, testing her strength, testing her humanity.

Jack will find me.

Subject to cruel and merciless treatment at the hands of a government she once trusted, Caroline clings to her sole lifeline, her only chance at maintaining her tenuous hold on reality: her memories of her husband, Jack, her children, Marguerite and Sophie, and the friends who mean the world to her.

Jack will find me.

But what happens when hope starts to fade? How long until her interrogators cross over into the unspeakable sadism she fears ? How long before she finally breaks apart?

Conscience is not a standalone and must be read after the first book in The Bellator Saga, Dissident. Trigger Warning: This book contains graphic violence and psychological and physical trauma, along with an oftentimes raw, dark, and gritty plot.

For readers 18+. Ends in a cliffhanger.

Genres: Romance, Adult, Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Drama, Contemporary

421 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 15, 2015

About the author

Cecilia London is the pen name of a native Illinoisan currently living in San Antonio, Texas. She's filled several roles over the course of her adult life - licensed attorney, wrangler of small children, and obsessed baseball fan, among others. An extroverted introvert with a serious social media addiction, she is the author of The Bellator Saga, an epic, genre-crossing romance series. You can catch all of her quirky updates on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, or at her website.

Reviews

[S.M. West · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 DARK and AGONIZING STARS

The second book of this saga picks up right where it left off. Caroline, first lady of Pennsylvania,

CAROLINE GERARD McINTYRE


has been captured and is facing an uncertain fate but, we know it won’t be pretty.



If you like a great political thriller with loads of action and suspense, highly witty banter/dialogue and a seriously kick ass heroine, you will LOVE this series.


I’m not very knowledgeable about US politics; I don’t understand all the nuances and it doesn’t necessarily turn my crank but this series works for me. Why? It works because I’m fascinated with the human psyche and the struggle for power vs. altruism and the never ending strategizing that is rampant in politics. Underlying the political world of this series are the machinations and struggles between the power hungry and those who are truly there for the betterment of the country and the people.

I’ve read some seriously dark mindfucks and twisted stories but…I’ll be blunt, this was pure torture on all levels.


What Caroline endures cannot be sugar coated.


If you can’t handle a brutal punch of reality mixed in with your fiction or if physical, mental and emotional torture make you sick, this is not for you.


Don’t get me wrong, this book/series is so worth the read. It's dark, clever, vicious and psychotic, and let me tell you, it’s brilliantly done!!

The story is told, like the first book, in flashbacks. Interweaving past and present, in my mind, was deliberate on a few fronts. First, the past sequences divulged enough information to perfectly line up with the present day action. Also, the flashbacks slowly moved forward to the present day and put the pieces together as to the how and why Caroline is where she is. Finally, these flashbacks were also used as a coping mechanism for Caroline as she relived family, friends and their love as well as the freakin’ HOT smexy times with her silver fox, Jack McIntyre. Let me tell you, these hot interludes of sex, lust..



...and pure unadulterated love


were an oasis in the desert and also a fucking fantastic escape from it all. For both Caroline and myself.


Just when I thought my heart couldn’t be shredded any further, Ms. London would whisk us away to the past and give me a much needed reprieve.

There are some truly evil characters in this story that I hungrily await their day...



It was only at the very end of the book that I realized that I’d gone through the emotional stages with Caroline of rage, hope, guilt, anguish and finally despair. I truly was a wreck at the end of this book. I finished it late at night, just before bed and as I read the last line, I couldn’t help but burst into tears.


I was like a damn bursting at the seams and this surprised me. Not because the story didn’t warrant that reaction but because I didn’t know how overwhelmed I’d been and that I’d been holding a lot of the pain, anger and sadness of this story in.

I’m seriously looking forward to the next book. Ms. London does leave us hanging in what I’d like to say is a hopeful way. But I’m not fooled, we’re not out of the darkness yet.

**An ARC generously provided by Cecilia London in exchange for an honest review.**

For more reviews and blog posts.

[Jx PinkLady Reviews ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Amazon US**



The Bellator Saga has taken me on a slow seduction, teasing me with the beautiful past and luring me with the dark and disturbing present. As the series progresses its gaining incredible momentum of feeling and context becoming more and more intense, dramatic and emotive. The exploration of how things could potentially be if power was placed in the wrong hands makes this political thriller even more heart stopping.



The story once again toggles back and forth between the past and present using the third person narrative. It's steeped in political drama, the present witnesses Caroline held captive and all the gruesome things the antagonists make her experience. The heady mix of the romantic contemporary past juxtaposed against the suspense and gritty darkness of the present gives this story a thriller-style quality and helps to make the present the most engaging aspect for myself. The scenes from the past, however, compound the happenings of the present and I must confess although the past, at times, felt too detailed for my tastes I found that it slowly evolved to the forefront of my mind, it made my heart beat fast, I knew parts of their destiny and the impact of knowing these facts was incredibly emotive at certain moments.



I love the fluid movement of prose moving the story forward, the comfortable relationship of the hero and heroine, Jack and Caroline, their easy banter and deep connection. Caroline's personality emerges from the narrative with conviction. At times parts of the text in the present made me wince but the more Caroline suffered the more her strength shone for me.

This Contemporary Romance meets Suspenseful Thriller was not instant book love for me but this author has comprehensively seduced me with her characters, her writing and a story that's political with deep and meaningful relationships. If you enjoy complex, intelligently written stories with layers, depth and suspense then I highly recommend this series. The first three books of the intended six book series are now available and although not all elements are tied up, the first three books mark the end of the first part of the story making it a natural place to pause ready for the next in the series, just as you would do with your favourite TV show.

AVAILABLE NOW-->
DISSIDENT (Book 1) http://amzn.to/1XQ5QV2
SOJOURN (Book 3) http://amzn.to/1HR8jHH

My review thoughts for Dissident & Sojourn

Note: The first three books mark the end of the first section of a six book series!

Advanced copy provided for my honest review thoughts
*Teasers made with stock image purchased from deposit photos*

[Bibi · Rating 5 out of 5]

My word, I am wrecked. Review to come.

[Katy Loves Romance ❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5++ Brutally beautiful Stars
Super quick review as I have sooo many ARC's but I need to write some of my thoughts down..


Where to start? When you read books like this you want to go back a re-star all your past books as nothing quite adds up to a book that effects you like this.. That's how I feel here, this series is a magnitude of emotions for me. Trying to express my feelings is a tad tough I'm going to try though so here goes.

This book begins where Dissident finished, where Caroline is running for her life and getting caught by the Feds for the things she knows of, for the government that is evil and wants to do what they want to the public. Caroline is not scared and keeps going though to the bitter end.

Gah this book is freaking brutal and broke me in two.. I don't think I've ever read anything like this before, even though I have read some hardcore story's this one had me stitches alllll the way through. Worrying, fretting, sobbing and also laughing. Caroline is kept in the Federation prison, she's torchured where they play games with her mind. Giving her hope and then taking it away. Showing her that they have her by the skin of her nose. Starving her, she's not looked after AT ALL. They mess with her and try to break her. But you know Caroline is one HARD TOUGH COOKIE and if there's any woman I would love then Caroline is it. She's a true heroic-powerful-beautiful soul that is stronger than a freaking Ox!!



Although those times that pulled at my heart hurt like a motherF***er you again get flashbacks into her memory, that frankly were refreshing and I truly needed the break Cecilia gave us. Moments of sensuality and love between Caroline and Jack.



moments of love and conversations between their friends, family and kids. Giving you a perfect picture of the life they had.

I'm going to now take a breather read some arcs and come back to this in a week.. But know this. This is an EPIC LOVE READ it's brutal, it's sensual, it beautiful and it will make you smile even if you end up sobbing at the end. Because it's a relief for both you and Caroline..

The question is
WHERE THE FUCK IS JACK??



That is all..

ARC generously gifted in exchange for an honest review

For more reviews and blog posts

[Dee Montoya · Rating 5 out of 5]

*****5++++++ STARS******

(ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review)

I'm clutching onto my kindle. My heart is pounding and tears are pouring down my face. I relish on the feelings brought on by this highly emotional and thrilling story. If I loved book one of The Bellator Saga, this second book I absolutely adored. The story keeps getting better and better...



The book starts as Caroline wakes up cuffed to a hospital bed after two weeks of being in intensive care. With the help of her doctor she tries to escape but her mission is short lived. Our heroine gets captured and taken to a horrible government prison, where traitors are tortured for information about the group of rebels forming against the corrupted government.

This book is told from past to present. The past scenes are about Jack and Caroline's beautiful life, as he runs and wins the election for Governor of Pennsylvania and Caroline becomes the first lady. These two characters are so in love and it's a real treat to read about them settling so beautifully into married life. Their funny banters, their sexual games and family life are simply amazing and a safe haven inside this very emotional book.




The scenes that are narrated in the present time are very dark. Caroline never knew how strong she could really be, until she had to fight so hard for her life. Her current situation is very critical, she finds herself in a cruel world, where there's nothing but pain, darkness, and monsters who hurt her.

My heart broke over and over. The angst was at an all time high. The brilliance of this author though, was how she combined the beauty of the past and the horror of Caroline's present in a way that not only made sense but left me in awe with the story and made me feel so connected to the characters.



I always look for inspiration for my own life in the books I read and Caroline's character was so fierce, so smart, I totally wanna be like her when I grow up. Her passion for her family, her friends, her country, had no limits and she fights with blood and tears to protect them.

Jack's character too is amazing. There's so many sides to him and I must admit I liked every single one of them. Jack is smart, rough, loving and sometimes insecure and vulnerable but as the story goes on he made me fall deeper for him.

Another thing I must share in this review is how much I enjoyed the sex scenes between these characters. They both love to experience different things and were barely able to keep their hands off each other. It was so interesting to read about such a powerful and elegant couple who behind close doors got really kinky. As they learned more about each other's bodies and limits, the sex got much more adventurous and this made for some of the hottest scenes I have ever read in a book.

I'm enjoying these books tremendously, the more I read, the more I cry and the more I love...

Please, do yourself a favor and pick up these books today!!. Don't let another day go by without you experiencing the magic that is inside the pages of this story.

[Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 "Deep, Emotional, Riveting" Stars



WOW.......This second book in The Bellator Saga Series hooked me and never let me go. It was Gripping, Mesmerizing, Sensual, Brutal, Exasperating and Wonderful. It managed to bring out every emotion under the sun- some that compelled me to happiness and others that drove me to despair and sadness. The author told the story in past and present narratives and IT WAS BRILLIANTLY EXECUTED is all I can say. The flow was effortlessly and driving.

Caroline was captured and sent to The Feds prison. This is her story. It's not a pleasant journey- like I said, it was brutal and honest. But it evoked the deepest of emotions. Her remembrance of the past mixed with the reality of the present kept you at odds. Her memories were the only things you had in the entire story that compelled you to read and move on. Then there were times when you thought......I cannot go on, it's too much, but then the author brought in a past memory and you were swept away in the banter, the romance and the sensuality of Jack and Caroline. Caroline’s memories of their intimate moments were erotic and moving but heartbreakingly sad when Caroline woke.



The past memories also embedded you into the lives of Caroline and Jack. The dynamics between Caroline’s daughters, Caroline’s best friends, Christine and Tom, and Caroline’s staff, Jen and Katie, were beautifully exposed during Caroline’s incarceration. Caroline dreamt of the past, the past that kept her alive with hope but also brought her despair as being the one that lead them down this journey of doom.

I will say the entire read is harrowing and exasperating. But I loved, loved, loved every minute. The ending will leave you ........I'm sure you can guess.......I'M NOT GONNA TELL YOU!! It's amazing and wonderful and breathtaking- in both good and bad scenarios. But it's one that you will not want to miss out on- I Promise You this is a series you must pick up!! It’s an epic story of epic proportions.

ARC graciously given in exchange for an honest review

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

~5 Mind Blowing Stars~

"You and me. You're my heart Caroline. Nothing else matters."

Conscience is the second book in the Bellator Saga. You must read Dissident to fully enjoy this read. Told again through flashbacks and the horrors of the present, Conscience turns up the passion, increases the pain, and the mystery of the corrupt government begins to unfold.

"One day you'll pay for everything you've done."

As Conscience begins, Caroline wakes up in the Fed's Prison where the stakes are high. She is subjected to continuous interrogation and is forced to maintain control over her body and mind. As the physical pain increases, the emotional pain engulfs her like a virus.

"They were going to tear her apart, smash her and break her bit by bit, bone by bone and day by day until there was nothing left."

"Any harmless gnat can turn into a monster when granted access to power he doesn't need or deserve."

It is only the reprieve of her memories that bring her comfort and a sliver peace to grasp onto.

"I would do anything for you."

The memories of Jack and Caroline together left me breathless. Their relationship has matured and strengthened into an unbreakable force. The intimacy shared between the two is explosive, and the tenderness of their love had me swooning at every turn. Jack is quite the dominant in the bedroom (my kinky reading friends need to experience JACK!), and Caroline is happy to submit to any and all of his demands.

"When we get back to our room I'm going to fuck you so hard you're going to feel me with every move you make tomorrow."

Told in mostly Caroline's POV, Conscience most definitely brought more. More love for Caroline and Jack (and their sweet girls), more fear of the twisted government, more passion for exploring, and more intrigue. To state it plainly, this writing is smart! The plot is complex, and every piece of the puzzle is important. The relationship between the characters remains at the forefront as the backdrop of torture continues to develop. I simply could not put it down.



Conscience is a must read. If you are a fan of suspense, romance, and action, you must check out this series. Ms. London took me places in my head that I have never been before. The anticipation of what is to come is the driving force and will keep you engaged the entire time!

***The Bellator Saga***


*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!*

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't even know what to say here!!



I needed some liquid courage to keep reading this book! It tore me in freaking half!!



I've been bawling my eyes out for most of this book. Cecilia London has propelled herself into a spot on my favourites list. The writing? Phenomenal. Oh my gosh, this author can write her ass off! The plot? Twisty-turny, heart pounding, heart breaking, sensual, loving, torturous, etc.

Again... again I got complacent. I got so caught up in the back story. How Jack and Caroline worked things out from book 1. How they got married. How they became a family. I fell in love with them and their children. I fell in love with their friends. I was so freaking happy for them. I somehow convinced myself that all would be well. How did I do this to myself???



I really don't. Cuz if I did, I would have better prepared myself. Gah!

I was beyond ecstatic that the author chose to explore more eroticism and gave this couple some descriptive scenes. Call me a perv, but these scenes only served to strengthen their bond and further convince me of their intimacy, love, commitment, and devotion.

But like the first book, it was a freaking setup. The author kept switching it up. The political turmoil, the deception and betrayal, and each 'present' or 'the Fed' scene slowly whittled away at my heart and soul. People that I had fallen in love with were DYING!! And poor Caroline had to watch it all happen in silence.



Caroline is a fierce lioness. She's been put through more than the wringer. She's living in hell and has not once faltered. She pissed me off a bit in the first book, but she has completely redeemed herself here. I love her so much. I'm rooting for her and Jack all the way. Shoot, I want to join the rebellion my damn self!

I have no idea what book 3 will have in store for me. I wonder who's even still alive out there. I really hope the book will cover some kind of revolt because my heart just can't take this!

XO

[Mo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why not Five Stars? I gave the first one 4.5, rounded up to 5. Honestly, I think the storyline is great, the plot is great, the characters are great ... the author didn't need to go down the road of "kink" ... or whatever you want to call it. Spanking, etc. Not a prude by any means but I though the storyline was fine without the "extra"!

“Oh, Punky. You should afford to have a bit more humility. But the first goal is for you to stop cursing so much."
"Fuck that," Caroline said.
"You're failing miserably."
"I haven't even started yet.”

We are again told the tale through the past and present. Caroline is in captivity ... and that is putting it mildly.


Some of the torture scenes are a tad brutal.

Was it possible to die of a broken heart?

Where the fuck is Jack?

This had to be a nightmare. A dream.

It didn't seem to be as heavy on the politics this time. Maybe that was one reason that it did not make it to 5 stars!

It was going to be a long night ...

Overall, a good read.

[Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book – Conscience (Bellator Saga #2)
Author – Cecilia London
Publication Date – August 17, 2015
Genre – Romance/Suspense
Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger – Oh Yeah
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.


My Thoughts - Story
Ok…so I can’t get over that cliffhanger and wondering what the hell is going to happen next! I have so many different scenarios running through my mind…especially one that I hope and pray isn’t what is going to happen.



This book has it ALL and I mean it when I say that it has steamy sex, the cries, love, romance, thrills, and so much more.

Ms. London does a kick ass job unfolding this story of Jack and Caroline…I can’t say enough about this series and please…don’t pass this one up!

Re-Cap
Too much is going on for me to give you a recap and I don’t want to spoil the first book if you haven’t read it or accidentally reveal something from this one…



Just note that this book starts where the first one ended and we learn more and more about what is going on in America and how the political parties are starting to unravel. It bounces back and forth from the past to the present and we get a deeper understanding of the love between Jack and Caroline.

The present catches up and it’s heart stopping, emotional and suspenseful ---- I found myself constantly tearing up at the end of this…nope…can’t go there without giving the story away.



Reason for Reading – Author Request/Blog Tour
Story – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
HEA (Spoiler) – Still on a cliffhanger
Would Read More from Author? Definitely
Recommend To – I think everyone should read this…just look past all the politics from the first book and give it a go!

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[~IreneOust~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are very few authors that make me pull an all-nighter and/or make me read a book in one sitting. I am talking 'walking through the house with my Kindle, bumping into things as in not wanting to put the book down because I want to know what's coming next' ... that kind of 'one sitting'! So yeah ... Cecilia London did that. With BOTH of her Bellator Saga books. If I thought I was addicted to Dissident then Conscience became my crack.

This wasn't an easy book to get through though. It was as hot as it was brutal! What Cecilia did brilliantly is mix past with present so that the brutality of the present was broken up by the scorching memories of the past.

This series is so well written that it simply flows. You don't realize the pages you are eating up because you are so consumed by the story. There isn't anything I DON'T like about this series. The writing, the plot, the characters, the banter, the heat factor .... I could go on and on singing it's praises.

Don't be 'discouraged' when you see this series being described as 'dystopian' and/or 'political'. Even if neither genre is your thing, I still encourage you to pick this up. Yes, both aspects are present in the book but neither take away from it falling into [intelligent] erotica/romance/suspense genres.

I call this series/author 'my favorite discovery of 2015'. If/when you read this, I hope you love it as much I did!

Cheers!

CONSCIENCE on AMAZON



ARC received from an author in exchange for an honest review.

[TeriLyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Conscience generously provided by the author & Give Me Books Blog in exchange for an honest review.**

LIVE! Get Conscience here!


5+ "You make all of this worthwhile." Stars

I don't know where to start so please forgive me if this review is all over the place. It's important to me for anyone reading this review to know that I do not normally read dystopian, politically thrilling romances, in fact I've never read one. I'm not into futuristic all that much. I abhor politics. But for some reason this series caught my eye with the first book Dissident, which I loved. Why am I telling you this? Because it FEELS SO GOOD to have went outside my normal reading box. And it feels so good because Conscience is a phenomenal, dark, gritty, beautiful, empowering read. I think if you are reading this review, then you should read this book too.

Told in third person, Conscience continues the story of Jack McIntyre and Caroline Gerard, two political figures from opposite parties who fell hard for each other. Just as in book one, Dissident, the story is told from Caroline's dire present situation interlaced with vivid flashbacks from the time in her life post-meeting Jack. This author perfectly converges the past with the present in a variety of ways. The past sets the tone allowing for the hurt of the present to be much more acute to the reader. In contrast, the past reads as much sweeter because the flashbacks provide solace to not only Caroline but to the reader as well. However, these beautiful memories heighten the distress in the reader because of the danger Caroline currently faces. To me, this was a brilliant way Cecilia London chose to drive this story forward. The past and present being both painful and beautiful all at once creates a maelstrom of emotion the reader can't even fully process until it's over because of how invested we become in the story.

Jack McIntyre and Caroline Gerard are vibrant characters who light up the pages of Conscience. Their evolving love story hails as one for the ages in it's honesty, vulnerability and passion. Their friends first before anything else. The trust these two exhibit for each other knows no bounds and that trust shines on every aspect of their relationship. The hero and heroine alike are sharp, witty, strong, vulnerable, and passionate in every aspect of their lives. Many moments of pure, unadulterated pleasure solidifies the trust and passion in their relationship. London writes epic passionate scenes without being overly graphic and giving so much excellent banter and vocal reassurance the reader viscerally feels their connection.

As well the main love story the author builds meaningful relationships between Caroline and the secondary characters; extraordinary friendships built upon the same passion and trust shared between her and Jack. There was one particular chapter showcasing the beauty of Caroline and Christine's friendship where Irene messaged me and said "I want to be best friends like this!" and all I could say was a resounding - "YES!".

This book is as dark as it is light. As beautiful as it as brutal. It's the story of Caroline Gerard and the life she's led, leads, and will fight to preserve. It's her dignity as a human being. It's a reminder that there still are people in the world who stand up for exactly what they believe against all odds. The whole story completely captivating and engrossing. I felt exhausted in the best way once I was through. I cried for all the joy and triumph. I cried for the utter devastation. I felt the desperate hope Caroline instilled in me, I shook with the fear I know in my heart Caroline feels, and I triple checked the locks on my doors in order to keep the bad guys who are torturing this woman away. Another reading friend, Suzanne, put it perfectly in her review when she said at the end she felt like a whole pile of emotions landed in her lap that she was holding in while reading.

Obviously, I could go on and on. Bottom line, Cecilia London created a captivating, dark, intense, beautiful love story in The Bellator Saga. As a new author, she's completely blown me away. Conscience was a brilliantly written book, London's prose utterly engaging, intelligent, sexy, and witty.

There's a scene in the book where Caroline relays to Jack that she'll follow him anywhere. Well Cecilia London, I pass that sentiment on to you and your upcoming stories. Can't wait for more!



Fabulous BR with my girl, Irene!

My review for Book One:
Dissident

[Elfina Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cecilia London brings realism and darkness as she delves into the sick, twisted mindset of the Fed's interrogation practices against a captured political figure. Caroline Gerard. An endearing tale of survival, bravery when everything seems lost and bleak. This amazing author captivated me from the start. Shocked and wow me to where I couldn't put the book down. Every time Caroline suffered, so did I. I'm amazed by the character's strength, the will to live when everything was lost. With each stuttering heartbeat, I chanted for her defiance and rebellion. Conscience is not for the feint of heart or those with triggers of abuse. A five star recommended read!

[SueBee★bring me an alpha!★]

Book 2 of 6.

Books in The Bellator Saga should be read in order:
Book 1: Dissident
Book 2: Conscience
Book 3: Sojourn
Book 1-3: The Bellator Saga I-III
Book 4: Phoenix
Book 5: Rhapsody
Book 6: Triumph

ARC provided to me by author Cecilia London in exchange for an honest review.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so fucking distraught right now. Don’t even get me started on how fucking sick (positive) and how emotionally I want to ball my fucking eyes out. What a book and well I’m just going to post my review. It might be ranting but I can’t help it.





Be prepared to be dazzled by wonderful review. So this is the second book in the Bellator Saga and it was fantastic. Holy shit. But it won’t be rainbows and unicorns my friends. I can see why it gets high reviews as the plot of this story as well as the writing style is really well done. Now for me and this is just my personal opinion there is nothing worse than a lawyer in a romance novel, no wait there is and that is a politician. But this wasn’t too political although there were times I swayed in my concentration but that is just me. So overall I give it 5 “Mr. Governor and his First Lady” Stars.

Personally from me it only gets 4 “Mr. Governor and his First Lady” Stars.

It picks up just where the first one finished. Caroline wakes up in a hospital and can’t remember what happened at first. There is a foiled escape plan where the doctor Maureen tried to help but couldn’t even open the handcuffs. Caroline never loses her humor.

Prosecutors pick up a lot of disturbingly useful borderline criminal skills.”

An attempted murder and cold blooded murder. Caroline is removed and escorted to a high maximum security prison where she is kept prisoner and questioned with her own personal number 1479. I’m impressed with the torture methods and I felt for Caroline every step of the way. She is so strong and does the right thing. How gut wrenching it is when she wakes up in her cell of the memories that she is dreaming about.

Although it doesn’t take a lot to push her over to the brink of insanity.

Ms. London fascinates me with a depiction of human behavior, the lack of morals and ethics as well as seeing people’s views on right and wrong and the fifty other grey shades out there.

There were times between the past and present where I was always dying to know what was happening and what was going to happen next I always felt as if I was left hanging, once again me and not the author. There was suspense, heart breaking moments were I was rooting for Caroline.
We saw the relationship between Jack and Caroline develop and it was a strong development. They have evolved as characters singularly and together.

After they split up in the past, Caroline is shot and it doesn’t look good for her. Sometimes horrible things have to happen to realize that one has something fantastic. She survives but has the scars to show but Jack and Caroline get back together and they get married. They talk and are open about their feelings and what to expect for the future. Clearly Jack shouldn’t have lied. But he is so sweet.

”I thought if I told you the truth, I’d ruin what we had. That you’d pull away and never be willing to see if we could make a relationship work. I know it was selfish.”

We see how the regime has changed. Former players who were monsters get to live their secret desires. Good people are shot dead there are no more constitutional rights.

I loved the relationship she had with her daughters and Mo, the ultimate smartarse for a ten year old.

She turned to her older daughter. You didn’t get me anything Mo?” ”My undying love isn’t enough?”

I think he more than likes her, Soph.” Caroline gave Marguerite a hard look. “Quiet, Mo. We’ll talk about that later.” Her eldest daughter didn’t bother hiding her smirk. “I’m just glad you took my advice.”

You can’t NOT like Caroline. She is the political sweetheart. I loved the intellectual and sexual banter between Jack and Caroline. Chrissy was a gem as well and the banter was great as well.

“Oh, Punky. You should afford to have a bit more humility. But the first goal is for you to stop cursing so much."
"Fuck that," Caroline said.
"You're failing miserably."
"I haven't even started yet.”

I had difficulties with the jargon as I’m not American and not really into politics but that is my problem really and not the authors.
If I hadn’t been asked to review the book by the author then I most likely well 98 % would have skipped them and would have been missing out.

No system is perfect and if you look really close and as it was mentioned in the book as well there are similarities to what has happened in the past it isn’t the nationality which is a problem it is the type of person that you are and that you choose to be.

The tattooing of numbers, the fine veneer on the surface that everything is okay. The use of propaganda and lies to benefit your own beliefs. I’m shocked of the honesty and reality of the scenario here. And all of the good people that don’t survive but should. Society can be brought to reckless violence, homicidal tendencies and totalitarian behavior. You only need one fanatic the rest is like playing domino.

Any harmless gnat can turn into a monster when granted access and power he doesn’t need or deserve.”

I really want to see more of Jack and what is going on what are his struggles? Does he still believe that Caroline is alive? What is happening? HE better not be a dick and move on from her.
That ending I mean really woman what were you thinking? I need more now! Only 4 days!

Book supplied by author via Jeri’s Book Attic in exchange for an honest review.

They better not be dead. I can take some but not that.









Book supplied by author in exchange for a honest review.

[Terri ♥ (aka Mrs. Christian Grey) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick review:

Cover: nice
Rating: NC-17
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: I really enjoyed
Characters: Well done
Plot: Suffering in silence
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Jack

SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This installment of the series is grittier and sexier at the same time. We learn more and we are horrified at the events taking place all at the same time. It’s not the darkest thing I’ve read, but there are dark moments so be prepared.

For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:

http://www.mybookboyfriend.net/2015/0...

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cecilia London’s Conscience is more darkness, more erotic heat-more horrific-more intense and brutal-more love story…simply put MORE. A new America has been torn from the womb of the old, twisted and misshapen, vile and dark. It’s blight is growing like a fungus and every political maggot in the country is growing fat while those who dare to speak against them are slowly being ferreted out, tortured, murdered or have gone missing. What has happened to the Land of the Free?

Caroline is held prisoner, tortured, beaten, bones broken, sliced with knives and starved, all for information that her greatest enemy is determined she knows and must tell. The emotional torture is even worse as she is held in darkness, forced to watch those she cares about die and having no contact with or knowledge of Jack’s whereabouts or even if he is alive. The only things keeping her near sanity are the flashbacks to happier times, to her life with her friends, political allies and enemies alike. Her memories of making passionate and free-spirited love with Jack, of living a life of privilege and power, and the responsibilities it entailed.

Cecilia London has continued her Bellator series with an even bolder stroke of her pen. Unafraid of the sadistic darkness, she has created a tale with no holds barred, not for the timid or the shy. Her characters are far from perfect, they have appetites that can be carnal, but very human and are used as an expression of release from tension and particularly love, deep and trusting. The jagged edges of the present and the shards of a lost past will scrape across your nerves, slice at your heart and ignite an angry disgust in your belly. This is strong writing, harsh with no sugar coating, but destined to draw readers in with a vise-like grip. What if America truly was taken over by evil? Who would remain standing?

Series: The Bellator Saga - Book 2
Publication Date: August 17, 2015
Publisher: Cecilia London
ISBN-13: 2940151926119
Print Length: 392 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For More Reviews, Promotions and all things Books visit: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Carol***BeautyandtheBeastlyBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

**ARC received in exchange of an honest review***


Complete post with excerpts and giveaway here:

https://beautyandthebeastlybooks.word...


I’ve read Conscience twice already and I can say this book kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end, not once but, twice! Even already knowing what would happen, the second time I read it I was still as eager as the first time!



The first time, I was up until almost 3 am reading it and I just couldn’t believe it!! Cecilia London has got to be my BEST FIND of 2015! Writing a series like the Bellator Saga must not be easy at all! The story is a web of deception, love, intrigue and everything a good book should have! I had (twice) the biggest book hangover in the history of book hangovers and even right now and words fail me.



THIS BOOK! It’s completely amazing! Jack and Caroline’s story, started in Dissident, continued (and still does) to amaze me. Their love is so real and the story is so RAW! Conscience is a story so GRITTY, unebelievably impossible to forget that will keep you alert for days. The story will pop into your head and you will remember it at random times and it will just make you want to read it all again, no matter how hard it may be at times!



As I said before, Dissident is my TOP book of the year and it’s ahead of Conscience just because it’s the first book, it was with it I fell in love with the characters and Cecilia’s story and writing! Both of them are in my TOP books of the year (I have quite a few favorites, but this year there are some that made the top)! Conscience is a book that GRIPS you in a way that it’s even hard to describe. The characters are perfectly constructed and they never fail to amaze us, either they are the good guys or the bad guys. There is a consistency in this sequel that makes it even more real. It doesn’t dodge from the first book, it justs adds to the enjoyment.



I loved to see how both Jack and Caroline grew up. Not only as individuals, but also as a couple. And differently from Dissident, this book has as many scenes in the present/future (the present in the book is about 5 years into our present or so) as it has in the past. The story in Dissident was mainly told in flashbacks from the past. In Conscience we have a LOT going on in the present and even though I dreaded the moments the present would arrive, I also couldn’t get enough of it. Don’t get me wrong, Conscience was hard to read at sometimes, not because it was bad, but because the writing was so good, it got TOO real. I mean, it’s the most tense book I’ve ever read in my life. And I’m known for loving my angst and tension. I don’t back down easily, and Conscience didn’t make me back down, but it made me suffer at certain points. I suffered every minute with every character. And that, to me, is a sign of a good book.



This book has a darkness to it without being a dark book. It’s not a “dark romance” at all, it’s not a mind f***k. But the story has a concept that is quite evil. I mean, a dictator taking over the Land of the Free? That in itself is dark enough to think about. And the craziest thing is that it’s not only believeable in the story, but it’s something that if we think about, could actually happen the way Cecilia described it.



America is not the same anymore. The people are not the same anymore. But our favorite characters? They don’t back down from this kind of challenge. I mean, Caroline is FIERCE. I’m in awe of her and her strenght. And Jack is Jack. Swoon-worthy, Knight in shining armor, loving (and kinky) Jack! Cecilia managed to make me love an older hero. Jack is a Silver Fox, he’s 50, although he doesn’t look or feel like it. But it’s great to find a character that is mature enough to know what he wants and get it without sounding like a p***sy doing it. Caroline is no teenager also and that’s part of the allure of these two. They have had lives before they’ve met and that made them ready to meet each other when they did. I also love how they never abandoned their ideals, and it’s great to see that two people with such different backgrounds and such different political views can love each other and support each other as much as those two!



The side characters are just as amazing. I mean, in this book the main characters, as in the hero and the heroine, are not the only ones that make the story, as in so many books we read. The side characters not only have helped making them into who they are now, but they also help to make the story. They are not there to fill gaps and to distract us. No, no. They are as important to the story as Jack and Caroline. I can say even the bad, evil ones are kind of important (I mean, I hate it, but it’s the truth LOL).



And despite it being the most tense book I’ve ever read, I wouldn’t trade reading it for anything!!!! A story of this level, that mixes contemporary romance, erotica, intrigue, a bit of a political thriller, and one of the most swoon-worthy heroes I’ve ever read? It’s not something I would pass. Ever! Imagine the movie “V for Vengeance” mixed with a poweful love story, a web of intrigue around the USA that could actually happen (and now I’m singing Muse’s Uprising in my head!!)?? Imagined that? That’s just the tip of the iceberg that is the Bellator Saga! There’s SO MUCH in this story!



I could talk about it for days and days and still have a lot to talk about it. It’s truly a “saga” kind of story! And I can’t wait to unravel more layers of this story. In Conscience we have plenty of Jack (not enough for myself, though, there’s never enough Jack and Caroline in this story), I still want to see what he’s been up to these days. And I get CHILLS just thinking of what can come next. I’m so anxious and happy to have more to read!



These Cecilia London books are the kind that, even though, the story isn’t over with these books, you won’t mind waiting for the next ones. I mean, of course you want them NOW, but from these two books we kind of already know a lot that has happened, because it gives flashbacks into the past. And even though we want more, they don’t leave us hanging, it’s hard to explain.



I said that when I read Dissident, the prologue made me want to cry and made the hairs on my arms stood up! Well, my reaction to Conscience was pretty much like that. The difference is that it was even more intense and through most of the book! And I LOVED it!!!!



I have a feeling, and this is speculation on my part, that the next books will progressively be told more from the present, although there will be flashbacks into their past. I know Caroline, Jack and their friends and family still have a long way to go. But this is a journey you won’t mind waiting, specially because it’s so well-written. Cecilia has such an attention to details, but without making the story boring or pedantic. Even though the descriptions and the story are detailed, it’s not one of those stories that have an air entitlement to it. It’s a story that is smart, it deals with politics, but in a way that is simple for us to get, specially because the love story is so powerful and enjoyable, so you just want to know more about the characters.



Conscience is a POWERHOUSE of a book! But the most powerful thing about this story though, isn’t what Caroline and her friends and loved ones have to deal with (I mean, poor Caroline has had to deal with more than half the characters I’ve read in my life had), nor the love story between her and Jack, or how incredibly FIERCE she is! The most powerful thing here has to do with Cecilia’s writing and how REAL the story feels.. The characters and the story are so ALIVE, it’s like they are breathing through each page. And that is just AMAZING. No words can describe the feeling of reading a book of this kind!!

[dreamerinexile · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the book I had NO words. I was busy glaring at the author. Now after a week. Here's my review.

Chained by monsters waiting to be torn apart 5 gold stars

*An ARC kindly provided for an honest review for Wicket Women Book Blog*

Holy Batman in Heaven! I think I prefer Joker’s sadistic sense of humor to this insanity that was Conscience. And the ride isn’t over yet. My heart literally felt like it would be ripped out of my chest, the way it was pounding. This nail-biter series is truly epic. It has heart, it has heat and it sure as hell have vicious brutality. I smiled, I swooned, I laughed, I winced, I cringed and I cried.

The story starts off where we left off in Dissident, Caroline has absolutely no idea where she is, but she remembers everything that had transpired up until the moment she woke up. Just when she is sure that this is the end, a ray of light shines down on her. But sadly the rescue attempt is foiled. She tried desperately to escape but only manages to get the crap beaten out of her.

What happens next is just as beautiful as it is horrific. Like in Dissident, Conscience is told in flashes of the past entwined with the good, old, sadistic brutality of the present. Cecilia London weaves the flashback and the present in such a way that it merges seamlessly into one fast-paced race to THE END. In the present, we sit down with Caroline as she is being dragged to interrogation. To say her captors are the evil spawns of Satan is like saying the sky is green. Complete and utter understatement. I hated the present with a passion that has never seen the light of day, until now. I knew that this book would be harder to read considering she is captured and the powers that be are going to do everything possible to get the truth out of her. But the way they went about it, these soulless so called humans, the extent they stooped to, to get the information. It was by far the hardest most gut-wrenching story ever. But I had to read on because I have been under a spell cast by the author. I am unable to not read and find out what happens. Like a junkie who craves for a fix, like a soul lost in the desert wishes for water, I yearned for the past but was equality scared of leaving Caroline behind in her present. Yes, that is how much Cecilia London makes you believe in the scenes and the characters.

The present then bleeds into the past, a sigh of relief from the pain or so it seemed. The past, oh the beauty of it made my heart flutter and clench, my palms sweat and my soul dance in the sweet magnolia smelling breeze. My heart smiled not only because the past showed me the love that binds Caroline and my current BBF, Jack together but also because it took me on a journey of learning more about Caro’s life. I got to get deeper into the woman who has an incredible zest for what she believes in, she is charming, witty and without a doubt a smart-ass sarcastic. She has a big heart and we get to see that in every way. She is a complete and utter kickass heroine. And to make the past sigh & swoon-worthy, we have Jack, the millionaire silver fox playboy ex-douche who has pledged his love to Caroline and I do believe he would absolutely sell his soul to keep her safe. The past was where her heart beat fast and sighed with content. The past was all that was keeping her sane, giving her hope that HE will come for her.

In the course of the story, I rediscovered what it means to have family and friends in a world that is full of fake and power hungry people. My heart clenched with agony at the parades of people from Caro’s life coming and going, to say it was hard to watch her suffer through the atrocities was again an understatement. At one point I had to stop, I wondered what I would do if I was in Caro’s place, how would I endure all that was being done to her. It is simply unimaginable to even consider, yet she was enduring, day in and day out. The past was gave a semblance of hope, of things that might be, again. But it was without a doubt heart-breakingly hard to read because of the sweetness and the love. When Jack was in it and he was so incredibly sweet and charming and swoony. He introduced color to the already beautiful yet lonely life that Caro had. He brought the steamy and the honey sweet back to her. The hot and steamy quotient is off the charts in this book, I don’t normally do BDSM, but the kinkiness in it is just what I wanted. It wasn’t demeaning, it wasn’t sick, it was beautifully sexy, fascinatingly kinky with a heavy dose of unadulterated love blended in. And that is one reason it was hard to let go of the past and get catapulted into the present.



By the end of the book, my heart was shred to pieces, yet the journey was not over. I had watched Caro suffer through disbelieve, rage, guilt, hope and now I had to sit and watch her lose all faith. As the darkness descends and the light leaves her eyes, will Caro wake up to freedom or more atrocities than her heart or body can endure. I leave you to wonder whether Caroline. Will Jack come for her? Or will she suffer more indignities that will leave her to rot in her dark prison surrounded by her soulless captors.

[kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'all. THIS BOOK. THIS SERIES. Get. Now.

I'm a writer as well as a reader, so I know how annoying and borderline offensive it is to authors to have someone scream at them to write faster. I do. I promise.

That being said.

WRITE FASTER, LONDON. FAAAASSSSTTEERRRRRRRR.

Holy hell, this book series. I've started ordering my friends to read this, sending text messages and emails all over the globe with links to purchase. It has been years since I read something like this and I am so grateful to London for it.

If you haven't read the first one, then stop right now and go there. This is absolutely not a stand alone situation and you owe it to yourself to start from the beginning. All you need to know is this: Adult dystopian America with incredible characters, a first class love story and sex so hot it may actually have melted my Kindle.

But on to Conscience. I'll stick to my policy of not really talking about the plot because everyone deserves to know nothing about it. You deserve to discover as I did and have the moments with Caroline that I got to have. As the Fed parades her beloveds in front of her, I hope you feel her despair and her strength in your gut. I hope this book sucker punches you in the best ways. I hope you loose sleep because the story trapped you. Because all of those things are true for me.

Conscience develops the plot - we learn exactly who Santos is and how the seeds of this new America were planted. We hear about the process that led Caroline and Jack to where they were in the prologue to the series - running through the woods to save their lives. We also learn more about them - we get to read about his election campaign and Caroline's transition into First Lady of Pennsylvania. We spend more time with her family and her friends, and watch the bonds between them all grow.

As the narrative ratcheted up, I kept muttering "where the hell is this going? there are four books left! what do we do now!?" and when I hit the last chapter of this book, I both gasped and cheered. Six months is a long time to wait for the third installment but I know she'll make it worth our while.

Get this series and thank me later.

(Full text of this review and others found at Rakes of Romance or at Beverages and Books. See link in profile or have a wee Google)

[Myla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues as Caroline Gerald slowly gains consciousness of where she is and how desperately she wants to escape from the clutches of her captors. Caroline is a tenacious character that can endure any kind of hardship, with only the memory of the past to keep her going, her relationship with Jack, unconditional love for her daughters and friends that she considered family. Hoping against hope that…



What a spine-tingling continuation of book one from start to finish! Brace yourself for this one is much darker with scenes that will make you squirm in your seat. Love scene that will make you hot and bothered. Quick-witted conversation among friends that will surely make you smile if not laugh.

Cecilia London really knows how to keep her readers immersed with her writings. Again, it ends with a cliffhanger, so you have been warned. But it's so good and can't wait to start book 3.

[Heather / Obsessed With Myshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh good lord, wow. This is not your typical romance novel. If you’re looking for fluff, go pet a dog – Conscience contains serious substance, intense emotion and a lot of violence. The second in the series, this installment is pretty raw…it rips your guts out and proudly places them on display after parading them around the room. If you thought that Dissident was gritty, you better hold on to your seat because things are about to get a whole lot bleaker before they get better.

I swear, this is also a romance. No really, it is!

Conscience messes with both your heart and your head: sucking you into a psychologically thrilling story full of government takeovers, violence, treasonous acts, and undying love. If you love series’ like Outlander, you’ll love this – without the thousand page per book commitment. Like Outlander, this series is also a genre mashup that is hard to define (even though I try to do it here) – regardless, just trust me when I tell you it’s in the genre of ‘Good Shit’.

When we pick back up with Conscience you’re re-inserted into an America whose government has gone rogue…and frankly is not as far fetched as one may wish it to be. Caroline’s been taken captive and while she’s pretty sure that whatever is coming next is going to physically hurt – she doesn’t fully grasp the emotional pain that she’s about to endure. Without getting spoilery, I’ll just say…uhhh, don’t get too attached to anyone. Ok? Ok.

While the present day scenes are pretty dark, emotionally charged, and painful – this book, like Dissident, is also told in flashback. For those of you who were dying for more information as to how America took a left into crazy-town, you get some of those answers here. You also get…dundunDUN….LOTS MORE SEX. eeeek! And coincidentally, we watch the development of Caroline’s relationship and marriage to Jack, which is endearing, sweet and swoontastic.

Jack. JACK. He’s one silver fox I’d like to trap and keep. mmmhmmm…Jack is sexy, dominant, and even better than I remembered. We learn that Jack is running for Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and I am totally in support of every misuse of his government office *winks*. Caroline joins him on the campaign trail and uhhh gives Jack plenty of personal attention while on the road. A bit more explicit than Dissident, we’re treated to a lot of sexy scenes that will make your heart race and your thighs slick. PHEW.

The banter between Caroline and Jack is funny, light and definitely needed to break up the heaviness of the plot. You can actually feel the love between these two. They have a real relationship that just also happens to be charged with sexual tension and full of witty dialogue.

Of course, every time you’re in a place where you feel warm and safe, Cecilia then tears your soul apart – bringing you back to the present to join Caroline in prison. Conscience isn’t a light read, but it is smart, witty and incredibly well written. There is definitely a cliffhanger – this a six part series afterall – but we’re left with a little bit of hope and sliver of light that will keep you hooked on this series. This isn’t just a great romance, it’s a great book. Five Stars!

[I beta read a copy of this book and also received an ARC. Regardless, this is my honest review]
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/0...

[Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog)]

DNF - Chapter 16 of 40

I made it through the first book in the trilogy, Dissident, giving it three stars (See my review). I really struggled to connect with the second book. The pacing is incredibly slow and the story feels drawn out. The amount graphic violence depicted in virtually every chapter made it even more difficult to get through. I thought I was almost done, but when I realized I was only on chapter 16 of 40, I had to throw in the towel. Keep in mind that this is a six book series following the same storyline. I can't imagine why you'd need six books to tell this story.

I know this series is a winner for many readers, so it could just be me.

**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

***5 STARS!!!!***
**I received an advanced copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All quotes taken from a pre-published copy may be altered or omitted from the final version.**

OPENING LINES

The Hospital

Caroline Gerard hated hospitals. In a seriously paranoid, irrational way. The labor and delivery section, generally a sage haven even when surrounded by sickness and death, was no exception."

40 chapters later and I'm a freaking mess!!
How is it possible that this women can write yet another AMAZING book!?! In all honest, I'm not sure if my heart is going to be able to handle 4 more books!! I gave Dissident 4.5 stars (click here to see my review) and I'm not really surprised but Cecilia London managed to write another amazing book, this was way better than Dissident!!

This was me from the minute Conscience showed up on kindle. Conscience starts right where Dissident left off, I was so excited to continue you on to the next book and hopefully get some answers from Cecilia! What I wasn't expecting was to be left a complete utter mess once I finished this book. I was so lost and so invested in Conscience that when I finished the last chapter I kept trying to scroll for me. I may or may not have screamed at my phone because I wasn't ready for the cliffhanger of an ending. And yes, there was the little fact that all the emotions I was feeling from the start just couldn't be held in any longer.

Conscience flips back and forth between past and present just like it did in Dissident. Cecilia's writing continues to grip you. I don't think I have ever come across an author who really understands her readers and knows the right moment to switch to the past to give us a little breaking for the heartbreakingly dark present. The moments we get to experience with Jack are so good, and hot, and steamy, and...okay you get the point.



I had a mini chat with Cecilia London through email, she warned me about Conscience and how I would have to wait for the next book in the series. I thought about it, and pondered on wither or not to join the blog tour for Conscience. I kept thinking "how bad could the ending really be?"...silly little rabbit. I mean this is Part 2 in a 6 part Saga!!! I hate waiting, yet I subjected myself to the torture of waiting for the release of book 3.

So don't mind me, I'll just be over here having a break down and impatiently waiting for book 3.

[Ang~Dirty Laundry Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our favorite protagonists are back and stronger than ever. The heat was seriously turned up in this installment. Cecilia London brought Caroline and Jack to new heights. The sex scenes are still seriously hot but the intimacy has been turned up a notch. The stakes are much higher in Conscience.

By now we know that Jack and Caroline are involved in some sort of underground movement to bring down the current administration. Caroline has been dragged to the Fed where she is being kept prisoner. She’s separated from Jack and is being tortured and abused by the guards. We have no idea what is happening to Caroline’s daughters or loved ones. Where is Jack? Did he escape? Is he a prisoner? Is he dead? The few encounters at the Fed where Caroline is reconnected with loved ones end terribly. This book was so difficult to read. The psychological and physical torture that Caroline is subjected to made me cringe and wince. My heart broke for her a million times. I kept asking myself how someone could survive what she endured. The human spirit and desire to survive is almost mythical.

A saving grace in this installment is the flashbacks. Thank god for those flashbacks! They served as a source of hope and light amidst the dark days at the Fed. We get to see Caroline’s memories and dreams of Jack, her kids, her friends, and loved ones. We get even more insight into her relationship with those closest to her. I grew to love her close confidantes and thought of them as my own. I felt the loss as she must have from the Sullivans to the Allens to Mo and Feef, and Jen and Katie, and, of course, Jack. Always Jack. These flashbacks included seriously hot sex scenes. I’m talking erotic and carnal and goddamn it’s warm in here!

I was zipping through these pages trying to figure out the mystery and the culmination of events that brought on these dire circumstances. You really must read this series! You’ll get to read about grown-ups with real emotions, passion, and struggles. Go give this book a 1-click! I promise you won’t regret it.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another Bellator novel starts off with an intense, page-turning beginning! A darker and more sensual step in this series made this a enjoyable read. The suspense throughout the entire book had my heart fluttering.

Reading Conscience, I could see a full-out television show in my head. Part government drama, part erotic romance, part Survivor! The action was intense. The sex? Delicious.

Jack, Jack, Jack. He was his usual self. Maybe even sweeter...

"I was hoping, if you weren't too busy during the next few decades, if maybe you'd like to spend them with me."

Flipping back and forth between the past and the present, "Americas Political Sweetheart," Caroline, is being dragged through the depths of hell. Being held and questioned while being beat along the way. And then, we jump with her to her cuddly life with Jack. Both entertaining and well written. I don't know which I liked reading more!

Again, Caroline and her daughter's relationship shined through for me. Their love poured off the pages. In fact, all relationships Caroline had were witty and loving. She and Chrissy were as adorable and feisty as sisters.

I enjoyed this installment even more than than the first and am impatiently waiting for the next! ~ Krissy, 4 stars

[Cecilia London]

This is a hard book for me to review, and I wrote it! It's got a little bit of everything - loads of hot sex, plenty of romance, friendship, angst, love...and yes, it gets dark. There is violence in this book. There is suffering in this book. This is not a dark romance. It is an erotic love story containing dark elements that are completely separate from the relationship between Caroline and Jack. Totalitarian regimes do not play well with others, and I do not gloss over that fact.

This may be my favorite book in the series, at least until I polish up the other ones. I fell in love with Jack during the flashbacks, and enjoyed seeing his relationship with Caroline continue to evolve.

Conscience is a harder read than Dissident. The subject matter can get heavy at times. It may not be for everyone. Some of the scenes may be difficult to process. I promise that it's worth it...you may not get all the answers you want, but there is plenty of story left to tell. :)

[♡ Jeri's Book Attic ♡ Jeri the Romance Bibiliophile ♡]

[J-ME · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Full Review - Check out my blog!
www.curiouskindlereader.com
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I received an ARC from the author... (more like begged) after I finished her first book in the Bellator Saga, Dissident. Because Ms. London loooooves a cliff hanger ending, but honestly, I do to.

This book though, Conscience was far more darker, gritty, suspenseful and down right hot-as-fuck. As the blurb describes.... we pick up right where Dissident ended with Caroline awake and already plotting her next move - an escape - anything to get her to safety. After the brutal attack and abuse she's already suffered you are rooting for everything to fall in to place.

What Cecilia London gave us in Conscience is a HIGHLY anticipated sequel that did not disappoint from beginning to end. With a duel narration between past and present she meticulously illustrates a story of both suspense, cruelty, passion and pain .... giving us hope that there's a light at the end of this tunnel for Caroline and her family.

Conscience is out August 17th and up for pre-order everywhere!

***FULL REVIEW TO COME AFTER RELEASE***

Happy Release Day!!!!

My god! Conscience, the 2nd installment in Cecilia London’s Bellator Saga took me on a roller coaster ride of fear – emotions and lust. If you haven’t read Book 1: Dissident yet (and why the hell haven’t you?) there may be spoilers ahead – just beware.

Cecilia London, she loves a cliffhanger ending – and honestly, so do I. But she warns you in the synopsis of her novels that this is the case of her Bellator Saga – six installments, and all six books will end in a cliffhanger. In Dissident, we left off with our heroine Caroline in the hospital, plotting an escape? Hoping there’s an out and wondering all along where the hell is JACK!? There was an underlining darkness, a story slowly unfolding – but Conscience? It takes you there, throws you in the dark and laughs at your fear (maybe that was Cecilia?) It was a non-stop, action packed and I devoured it nearly in one sitting.

As we’re witness to the never-ending struggle of Caroline, her thoughts take us to the past and allows the story to unfold – all the while leaving us reeling from what is happening in the present. She and Jack, their relationship taking the next step – and good god, these scenes will leave your toes curled and looking for a cigarette.

Things are falling apart in Washington – people are disappearing, and Caroline & Jack take it upon themselves to start collecting evidence – release it as secretly as they can trying to right the wrongs, and stay afloat – all the while frantically trying to protect their loved ones. As Texas is seceding from the USA Caroline and Jack scramble to set things in motion – sending the girls away for their safety, hiding friend and co-workers, getting everyone prepared for everyone’s worst fears. We learn all this as the narrations weave through time as Caroline in the present is facing her worst nightmares – over and over and over.

Chapter after chapter – past and present – I was left on the edge at every turn. Between what happened in the past, to what is happening to Caroline in the present my questions were slowly answered and then BAM! London throws you into left field wondering what in the hell could happen next!

Throughout all the horrible things Caroline endures – she keeps telling herself to have hope – to keep thinking everything will work out – Jack will find her, they’ll be reunited with the girls and hopefully make it somewhere safe to life out the rest of their lives and hold those accountable for their actions. But as things start taking a darker turn….. and more and more secrets are revealed, her hope is dwindling and I still don’t know where the hell Jack is!

But with all the chaos and suspense, we dive deeper into Caroline & Jack’s relationship – as Caroline finally trusts him – loves him – allows herself to be happy once again ….. things heat up….. and then some.

But above all else, some of the best things about this story is the banter – good lord, Cecilia London is gifted in the banter. The humor, the conversations Caroline has with her employee’s, friends and Jack is some of the funniest stuff I’ve ever read and really brings the characters to life.

Cecilia London’s Bellator Saga is dark- suspenseful and without a doubt, hot-as-fuck. You will absolutely laugh – cry and bit your fingernails all through this book and it’ll leave you as desperate as I was at the end for the third installment – emailing the author and begging, BEGGING for an idea of a release date.

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

How do I put into words this masterpiece of a book? Cecilia. You slay me with your words. This story? I cried, I laughed, I cried some more. I simply lived.

We are immediately thrown into the story the moment it begins. The Fed wants answers. And Caroline refuses to give it to them.They stop at nothing to get her to talk. She is physically and emotionally broken down. A shell of what she is, all she has left are her memories. But deep down she will always remain Caroline Gerard. Conscience truly attests to the resiliency of the human spirit. Caroline is a fighter. Whether she realizes or not, she is fighting for her love, Jack. Her girls. And her friends. Despite not knowing their fate.

As in the first book, Conscience is also told in a series of flashbacks between past and present. The present is brutal. It hurts. It’s gritty, raw. Violent even. But the author portrays it in a way that you feel like you are in that dark and dreadful room with Caroline. The writing is so raw and honest. Consuming. Your heart will race. But the past? It’s beautiful. Gut wrenching, and left me breathless. I am in such awe that the author brilliantly balances the past and present. As things progress within the government , we are given the feeling that something is about to go down. But what we always felt, past or present, is the love between Caroline and Jack. Unyielding. Relentless. Their love is incomparable and transcending. Their love runs deep.

There is so much that happens in this book. Some things are revealed and come to light. And in true Ms. London fashion, we still have questions at this point. However, the way the story slowly unravels will have you on edge the entire time. As long as this book was, I never felt it. I craved the next page. Even when forced to put down the book, I often found myself thinking about reading it. The author’s seductive and alluring prose is what makes this saga addicting. If this is what every political thriller, romantic suspense book is like, then sign me up!

My heart pounded through every page. Every single one. Through the declarations of love between Jack and Caroline. To the raw and grittiness that occurs. I was absolutely invested in the story from the moment it began. The writing is truly superb as the author perfectly orchestrates a story of love and hope even in the face of danger and evil. As in the first story, the romance and suspense are perfectly balanced as there are twists and turns we never see coming.

Conscience holds you captive. It was powerful and all consuming. While I absolutely loved and enjoyed the first in the series, she certainly DELIVERED on this one! I ended this in tears. So overwhelmed with every emotion. If I could give it 100 stars I could. Why aren’t we talking more about this book and series? Isn’t this what reading is about? To challenge us? Push us out of our element? To make us believe, to hope, to dream. To love? Fiercely and whole heartedly? What a thought provoking, profound and brilliant story. This is a story pushes you, feeds your soul, and satisfies your inner romantic. To the author. You left me in pieces. Shattered. But I’m trusting the process. Knowing that some day. Somehow my heart will be made whole again.