Member Reviews

As always, Ward is the best at what she does. This 18th book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series brings together the sexy and the action seamlessly.

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I am sad to say that I am one of those that have not read every book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I am however a fan of the series. I have read several of them. I seem to jump around prior to a year or so ago. Now, as they come out, I have made it my mission to read them. With that said. I was able to keep up and feel like I was right there for all of the past book with no misses at all. I also found more of a reason to go back and start the series over again. With this time being from beginning to end with no missing books. I want to follow along as the brotherhood is tested, tried, consumed, and bonded with love, friendship, and family.

I laughed, cried, rejoiced, clapped, and more. This one had me in may emotional states. Yes, this is a long book. Well a duhhhh. This is a Black Dagger Brotherhood from J. R. Ward. You will not be disappointed. There was something here for everyone. Wonderful characters. Some confusing, some confused, some with dark past, lost past, blurred past, and then there were those that were helping you along your journey through the read. You will meet many of the supporting characters and want more of them. There was just so much here. If you haven't started pick this one up. If you are one for the whole picture go back tot he blind king in Dark Lover. Book one of the Black Dagger Brotherhood had much for you to consume. Now, if you are a connoisseur of the series dive right in and enjoy each tap of you reading device, turn of the page, or intonation of the narration.

Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Entertaining Great world building Wonderful characters

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I can still remember when I received my copy of Dark Lover. I was lucky enough to receive it from the author and I was thrilled to try this new paranormal author. When her books started coming out paranormal was so hot it seemed like that's all I read.

Paranormal for me isn't as popular but Ward has kept going strong. A testament to her writing.

I might have been bad at keeping up and unfortunately need to go back and pick up a few books I've not read but the ones I have I've really enjoyed including this one.

I can always count on feeling something when reading a book by Ward. There is something about her writing that draws me to her books even when she doesn't hit the mark for me. I'm glad to say that this one did. I really enjoyed it and it's the last book I read or should I say able to read since being locked away inside my home.

I am so glad that we got back to the Dhestroyer storyline. So much happened in this book and I really loved most of it. At times I wanted to know more about Syn and his past. At times I wondered about their romance but the times I felt it made up for what I felt I was missing.

I really enjoy both Syn and Jo and thought they were great characters. What I always love about Ward's books is the fact that you get a taste of past/present characters in her books. I need the visit from the past to keep feeling the story. So much happens that I'd love to talk about but I hate giving to much away. All I can say is that I enjoyed reading the story and where it went in the series.

As a whole, this was the perfect addition to the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I think you will really enjoy this story and want more. I'm looking forward to more from this series. Any of you read her?

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~ Maria’s Review ~

3.5 Stars! Love being back in Caldwell with the BDB!

The Sinner by JR Ward is book 19 in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I absolutely LOVE this series. Technically, the novels can be read as standalones because they focus on a central hero and heroine. But there is an overall storyline that continues in each book. So, while, you don’t have to read all the books in order, I feel the storyline would be best appreciated if all books are read in order. But that’s me.

Although not my favorite in the series, I did like The Sinner. The characters of Jo and Syn are connected to the Brotherhood in a different way than my beloved OG Brotherhood characters. They add a different perspective. Syn is part of the Band of Bastards led by XCor and Jo, who we’ve seen in the series before, is a nice addition and ties up some questions that were introduced in earlier books. I must admit my favorite parts of this story are those involving Butch and Vishous.

I feel the pacing of the book was a little slow for me. I usually get lost in the story. That didn’t really happen for me this time. There were definitely parts and times that I got consumed in while reading. I loved the last 20% of the book. Author JR Ward ties up many loose ends and answers the questions raised in this installment.

There were moments where I laughed out loud and I got emotional at some parts. There were a few plot twists that I did not see coming and left me like What?! But they fit seamlessly in the storyline. Author JR Ward sets up the future of the Brotherhood saga perfectly. I look forward to reading what comes next. Love The BDB!!!

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THE SINNER is the nineteenth instalment in JR Ward’s contemporary, adult BLACK DAGGER BROTHERHOOD paranormal, romance series. This is Band of Bastards mercenary and vampire Syn, and journalist Jo Early’s story line. THE SINNER can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and history as THE SINNER ends this particular arc of the series.

Told from several third person perspectives including but not limited to Syn, Jo, Butch and Devina, THE SINNER follows several paths -the building relationship between Syn and Jo; Butch’s destiny as The Dhestroyer; the reappearance of Devina and the revelation of her true identiy, and the inevitable end of the war with the Omega but the beginning of another.

Journalist Jo Early has been investigating the paranormal including the possibility of dragons and vampires but our heroine never expected to come face to face with a man who may or may not have been sent to kill her. As well as investigating the supernatural, Jo begins looking into a series of brutal killings that are linked to the mob, an investigation that places Jo in the direct line of fire. Syn considers himself a mercenary for hire. Working with the Brotherhood, as well as taking side jobs in an effort to quell his need to kill, Syn finds himself facing his future when a half-breed vampire, just entering her transition, is Syn’s fated mate. What ensues is the building but heart breaking relationship between Jo and Syn, and the potential fall-out when secrets and lies are revealed.

Meanwhile, Brian ‘Butch’ O’Neal aka the Dhestroyer knows his destiny to take down the Omega is about to come to fruition. Believing he will meet his maker, Butch struggles knowing he may not survive the upcoming battle, a battle meant to end the war.

The relationship between Jo and Syn struggles in the face of preconceived notions and Syn’s battle with the demons from his past. Jo suspects Syn is one of the mythical vampires but has no idea that her fate is in the hands of the BDB.

THE SINNER is a detailed and complex story line that ends this particular arc of the series, and sets the stage for the next. As the Band of Bastards begin to find their own happily ever afters, a promise of war is on the horizon, a promise that comes with a surprising revelation. The reader learns about Jo Early’s heritage and her connections to the BDB. We are witness to the Dhestroyer’s purpose, and the end of the Omega. The premise is entertaining and edgy; the characters are broken but spirited; the romance is tense and not without some issues including secrets and lies.



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I love diving into a new Black Dagger Brotherhood book, it's always like coming home. Paranormal romance is one of my favorite genres, but it's hard to find a good solid series from it lately. I love that J.R. Ward is a consistent one for me.

I really enjoy these books no matter what the story line is, main characters are, side characters, etc. I love reading, and these books here, they are always worth the time. Would I enjoy seeing some of the other brothers featured besides Butch, V, Rhage? Sure, I can't deny that. That doesn't take any ratings away for me just because of this. The reason I did mark it down was because I miss the work, the angst, the CHASE of the romance. I miss gasping when they bond with their mate. We all know it's coming, but the way that it does or the when is the surprise. I miss the surprise. The bonding is coming to easy, and a bit to insta love for me. I can not stand insta love. It takes away from my favorite part of romance books - the chase. I love reading about them falling, there is no falling when it is insta love. Do we all remember how long Blay and Quinn's story arc took? That was perfection. That was everything. I'm not saying each couple needs their story to take several books, but it could take longer than the insta love aspect does.

Besides all of that, I enjoy these books. I'll be anticipating the next one as much as I always do. This series is still something that I enjoy, even all these books later.

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Ok, I was excited to dive into this beaut! I loooooooooooove getting lost in J.R. Ward's BDB world and this book definitely did not disappoint! I was trying to not read it too fast but I was lost in Syn and Jo's lives. The lessers were building up in this book and Butch's prophesy was a big theme here, too. There was so much going on and I wanted to wrap myself up in J.R.'s words! While Syn was the major focus, I liked how we saw other brothers as well. This book reminds me of why I love this world of hers. I don't want to ruin this story for you, so I'm just going to say if you've loved her other books, I'm certain you won't be disappointed with what's happening here. And to say I was shook is an understatement. I'm already eagerly awaiting what's to come! J.R. Ward is a dang genius!

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4.5 stars
Like the other books in this series, this one has multiple stories going on at once, so it took me a bit to get acclimated to all the points of view. But then I started getting invested not only in Syn and Jo's story, but also the symbiotic relationship of Butch and V.

Jo Early is a reporter with a special interest in vampires so she seems to be ending up in the right place and then having to have her memory wiped. She is adopted and unaware of her own nature as a half breed or what may be in store for her, but the brothers can tell. And there may be more of a connection than anyone realizes. She is bold, inquisitive, and determined to get answers which puts her at risk.

Syn is one of the Band of Bastards. He has lived a long, hard life and deals with an inner demon who thrives on violence. He also does side work as a mercenary, and it leads him into Jo's life. He does not get attached to people and he has a lot of personal issues. But they develop a connection and he realizes that he wants to be a protector for her. And she unexpectedly finds herself relying on him. But he knows she deserves more than he can give and he cannot change who he is. And she has no idea what she is really getting mixed up in.

And Butch and V seem to be a near end of taking out the lessers and they are both necessary to complete that goal. But no one is sure if the prophecy is true. And desperate evil can be even more unpredictable.

The layered story all pieces itself together to lead to a much-awaited climax. I really came to like Syn and his relationship with Jo. He unexpectedly found himself with opportunities for growth and change. I like when even the character himself is not sure if they are redeemable. It illustrates the importance of finding purpose, connections, and a sense of belonging.

There are some other notable points of view with a couple of characters weaved in, but they felt like more side stories to me. I was most interested in Jo and Syn, Butch and V, and the battle fans have been waiting a long time for....and it did not disappoint. There are some twists and surprises. And it set up a possible match made in hell (or heaven) for the next story.

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In The Sinner (Black Dagger Brotherhood #19) by J.R. Ward, As part of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, Syn is a vampire who lives on the edge, fighting and slaying lessers alongside his Brothers on a nightly basis. But what most of them don't know is that he also takes on local jobs as a hit man--although he does use discretion in which targets he'll pursue. It's when Syn is researching another job that he meets Jo Early. And it sets in motion not only a change in him as he realizes their bond together, but it also puts both of them directly in the path of the evil that is closing in on the Brothers and their family.

Jo's novice investigating skills bring her far more results--scarier results--than she ever dreamed when she started working for the Caldwell Courier Journal. And when Syn enters the picture, she has no idea what to believe. Her head is telling her one thing, her heart a whole other story. What's clear, though, is that Syn is wrapped up in something dark. And it seems he could use her help in any way Jo's willing to give it. Even as he's trying to protect her. But when Syn, Butch and the other Brothers begin to fight the lessers, hoping the prophecy will come true and bring an end to the war, everything changes. And their lives will never again be the same.

Mind. Blown. The Sinner was a high octane novel that answered a *lot* of questions and saw some things finally come full circle. Romance, deceit, power games, and friendship, J.R. Ward pulled out all the stops in this thrilling installment.

Oh my goodness, what an incredible story! I loved that The Sinner read like an old school Black Dagger Brotherhood book, with everything coming down to the friendships and alliances the Brothers have formed over the years. I can't divulge too much about what happened as it would ruin the epic plot twists and events that took place. I should probably mention two things, though. First, you can actually read The Sinner even if you haven't kept up with the series where Ward gave just enough background on the characters and previous happenings for it to all make sense. Well, as much as her intricately woven, ever-evolving plotlines can. (lol) And second, this book is around 500+ pages so it is a bit lengthy, although it didn't feel too wordy to me. There was just a huge amount of ground to cover, so it was well worth the time.

Syn and Jo Early were the main characters, but Butch was a huge part of the story as well. I was happy to get to learn more about Syn, even if his background gutted me emotionally. It was nice to finally understand what made the Mohawk'd dude tick and he was...everything you could want in an antihero. Sigh. To see Syn brought to his knees by his feelings for Jo was such fun. And Jo, by the way, was a terrific heroine. She was strong and independent but still had a touch of vulnerability--and a lot of love to give to those worthy of it. Her journey went in a direction I didn't see coming, particularly about her heritage. But I think fans will be happy with Jo and Syn's rough and tumble path. *And* with how Butch and the other Brothers all had their important parts to play.

The Sinner was an amazing game changer that fans will want to savor over and over. Filled with tough choices, lovely romantic connections, badass fight scenes, tender moments that will make you misty-eyed, and funny scenes that will have you roaring with laughter (Jolly Ranchers! And Lassiter, of course!) J.R. Ward continues to impress me with each new story she carefully crafts.

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Amazing book and story!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is the story of Syn and Jo. It’s also a story of war and despair. And a story of hope and love.

It’s hard to dive into the review and only tell you bits and pieces of the story. So let me just say that this is yet one more piece of the entire series that makes it so freaking addictive!

Syn is a soft hearted guy deep down. He has not always been a good person and he recognizes his faults. But when he and Jo meet he recognizes some thing inside. Some thing pure and wholesome that makes him look at the world differently. Yearning for something more he doesn’t believe he deserves.

I don’t want to spoil this awesome read for you. What I will say is that Ward has an amazing imagination and a talent beyond anyone in this genre.

The Sinner is gruesome but very bad ass at the same time. Full of love and appreciation for each other, these characters are just a perfect example of true friendship. They truly are brothers and a wonderful blend of family.

An amazing story of caring, compassion, and a deep connected love. An explosive story you simply cannot miss!!

5 Fabulous Hot Stars!

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