Captive: Beautiful Monsters Vol. 1

**Disclaimer: Allow me to start with, I read the first three books in this series within days. I apologize if my reviews blend together, but the flow of the Beautiful Monsters Series was so immensely smooth it felt like I was watching a television series or anime. To stop reading after the first volume was completed required more will power than I could muster. With this preface out of the way, here is what I thought about the books: To be honest, I started reading this book for a few reasons (Vampires, four-plus star rating by 200+people, AND M/M subject matter), but continued reading because Jex Lane made it utterly impossible to not turn to that next page and read that next chapter. Her characters are dynamic and unique, making it easy to separate the multitude of colorful personalities you will meet throughout the books. Lane has a magical, and sometimes infuriating, talent to paint a world filled with shades of GREY. Nothing, about her realistic settings or rippling effect of plot twists are simple black and white. You will find yourself loving the "bad-guys" and hating "allies". The main character Mathew will enjoy the highest of highs and suffer the lowest of lows, and with him your emotions will back-flip, front-flip, and even lie completely still in anticipation for what will happen next. Beautiful Monsters Vol. 1: The story starts off with a bang, introducing you to Mathew (the main character) and Tarrick (could be considered most secondary main character). Lane immediately immerses you into her supernatural world. Peeking your interest with a creative twist on some species (vampires and incubi) that you thought you had already known. The, clearly unhealthy and still hot as hell, relationship between Mathew and Tarrick is so intriguing you often switch from rooting for Mathew to make a move to mentally willing him to get as far away as he can. This complex hurricane of character alliances and hidden agendas was unlike any other I've ever read (and I've read plenty). To top the dramatic sway of emotions, Lane, created a perfect protagonist. I found myself loving, feeling, and siding with Mathew throughout the entire book. For the most part, his decisions and actions were on par with what I would've have done/felt; and even when he did something I slightly disagreed with I could still understand why he did it (it's just not what I would have done). Of course let's not forget the erotic scenes, which I felt were nicely paced, sexy as all get out and on point with the plot line. (Side note: Just for the record, this book consists of M/M and M/F erotic situations. All scenes will certainly satisfy any reader) And finally, Lane leaves us with a never boring ending and one final plot twist to ensnare you into NEEDING MORE! Ultimately I give Captive: Beautiful Monsters Vol.1 a five stars out of five because it checks off most, if not all, of my boxes. It was action packed, creative, complex, INSANELY interesting and erotic to the bone. If Mathew was a real person and I happened to be stuck in his world, I'd like to believe we'd get along. Lord knows I already feel for him and his past tragedies. Give volume one a try and I can almost guarantee you will be seeking out volume 2. Thank you Jex Lane for filling a few hours of my life with adventure, drama, and romance. Can't wait to read more.

Firstly, I have to say that this is not a romance. I say that because most of what I read is, and some of my followers may assume this one is as well. It's not. The main character is Matthew, who was turned into a vampire when he was 32. He was left to not only fend for himself, but to figure out vampirism on his own. He's struggled, but he has survived for seven years. It's been a dark existence though, and he has killed a number of humans because he hasn't been able to figure out how to survive without killing his blood donors. Then he meets Tarrick, who is an incubus. Matthew had no idea that incubi even existed, let alone that they were mortal enemies with vampires. Matthew is captured, and his education begins. There are many things about the supernatural world that Matthew didn't know and starts to learn, and also things about himself that he learns. The relationship between Matthew and Tarrick is complicated. They are master and slave, sometimes lovers (but both sleep with other people in the book, which is not cheating because they're not a couple), sometimes friends, sometimes enemies. Sometimes Tarrick treats Matthew well and sometimes Tarrick tortures Matthew. Sometimes Matthew seems to love Tarrick, sometimes Matthew resents Tarrick. It's a complicated story, and there are a number of other characters who come into play too. The world that the author has created is quite fascinating. Matthew is fascinating and especially because the reader knows there are more secrets about him to be uncovered, least of all whom his father is. There's the matter of Matthew's daughter too, and how she will factor into future stories. And, of course, the relationship between Tarrick and Matthew. Will anything come of it? Having finished this first book in the series, I honestly can't say. Perhaps. Perhaps not. It's not like a romance where you know in advance that despite all the issues, the two main characters will end up together with their happily ever after. That might not be the eventual outcome here. And there's something a bit thrilling about that uncertainty. There are currently three primary books in the series and three novellas. I intend to continue reading the series and find out what becomes of Matthew. He is a compelling character. Certainly not all sweetness and light, but complex and ironically human despite his situation. Five stars.

Let me start by saying I am so happy I ran into this series. The writing is beautiful it captured a world. I couldn't stop reading it. There is just so much world building and passion and character development I was almost mad I had never read this book before. I also happened to go through books like tissue paper so the fact that it was a series had me even more excited. Until I read through the synopsis of the next book and realize that book 4 has been on hold for over 4 years. I don't know what to say. This is a 5 star book hands down But no knowing that once I get through the next 2 I may never know how the story ends is breaking my heart. You'll understand if you've read book 1 because the story Is just all encompassing of your emotional and mental capacity. I don't wanna give any spoilers this is an amazing book but it doesn't end in a cliffhanger as I am assuming book 2 and 3 will as well. I'm debating weather moving into book Is worth it. Struggling because I am so in love with these characters and After just 1 book I am invested

This was a monstrous story with tons of powerful characters, which all seem to revolve around Matthew Callahan. Matthew is a newish vampire that has no idea what being made prisoner to the High Lord General Tarrick will bring him. He is forced to fight in a war between the vampires and incubi that has been raging for centuries. Matthew was forcibly brought to heel and trained to fight. At times, I was left wondering how he got out of situations he was put in, and I realized, like Tarrick, I had underestimated him. Matthew has a way with adapting to any situation. He is wicked smart, charming, and tremendously talented. He is also extremely deadly. We were just scratching the surface of the story surrounding Matthew at the end of Captive. Unfortunately for us, and him, the only people that could provide details about his life were keeping a very tight lip. It was beyond frustrating. Jex Lane created a world that is dark, bloody, erotic and it sucked me in. It is heavy and disturbing, yet at times light with a smidge of sarcasm. The story flows brilliantly and the battle scenes are totally epic. I was completely enthralled and wanted more. Normally, I am not one who enjoys books involving capture and torture. But this book, won me over. It is completely different than any other vampire book I have read. At times, the subject matter is disturbing, but the characters and storyline had me hooked. I could not put it down and the ending had me logging into my Amazon account and buying the next book, Sire: Beautiful Monsters Volume II. This book, like its title, held me Captive until the end.

Wow, it's been so long that I came by a good book about vampires. This series so far is great. It's captivating, very well written there are hardly any typos and just everything is right, for me at least. The way it is written just gets to you. There is lots of emotions who get to you (yes I even cried) and it never lets you go. It's never boring, it has a great speed at which things are developing and not some confusing jumps from present into past and back. Sure, there are flashbacks that explain feelings and situations but you stay present. I really like how the characters are developing and the depth given to them. We learn new things about over time which explain behavior and actions. The main characters are very "alive" and I could relate to them at certain points even though they are from a fantasy world. I got so into this world and Matthews way I couldn't put down my reader to go to bed knowing I had work in the morning. So very short nights for me during this book. Great story, I honestly can't wait for the next one and read how Matthew's fate is turning out. Also, hopefully, it's not going over to many books because I truly hope this "tearing" him up in every way possible is one day coming to an end. Even if it has to be his death should he not get a happy end but I hope (even though they are great) not to have to read to many more books in this series. I can only suggest this book to you. Well written. Fantasy, love, emotions, family, heartbreak, win and loss and so many things more.

So like my headline states. I do Not see this as a romance (even if by book 3 our two MCs are together) because honestly the focus of the story isn’t so much about romance as about self discovery of our hybrid half incubus half vampire super soldier. The politics are good, the intrigue is better. I would also not bill this as strictly MM since most of the pairing even with our Mc is with other women. It’s more of a Bi man who is living his best second life discovering his incubus side with as many partners as possible. The spice is spicy, as one might expect from a supe caught up in an incubus world. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, once I stopped looking at it as a romance it was even better. This story can veer pretty dark. The brutalizing in the name of “training” is not fun to read and boy do you want someone to be on our main character’s side. TW there is active on page assault of female characters and a ton of brutalizing of our MC.

The writing is good, but the editing was off due to its redundant sentences. The story is intriguing - sometimes... Ugh, allow me to explain so I don't come off like a picky A-hole. There were scenes I enjoyed but they were short lived and sporadic, basically, the story had a slow moving plot. The majority of the book consisted of torture, fights and fictional "military training." With that said, the sex scenes were steamy, detailed and intense (which is why most people are reading this, I'm sure) and the relationship between the characters were somewhat developed. Matthew (the main character) is annoying since he doesn't ever seem to know what he wants for himself - Ever! Tarrick was cool, though, the truth about him was mind blowing - now, I want him dead - he was so cruel to Matthew with his words alone. Sadly, the writing style is not for me, so I will not be reading the next two books. That doesn't mean someone else may not like it - including you! My advice? I'd say if you like hot, demonic, vampire M/M and M/F sex then give this book a try! If you're looking for true romance or a smooth read and "to the point" chapters (for those who read on the go) then this may not be for you.

This turned out to be a tasty little morsel. Captive is an urban fantasy that's a little bit enemies to lovers and a whole lot bad wrong. Matthew is a vampire/incubus hybrid without a sire out hunting one night when he feels a "thump". Said "thump" is not Thumper but Tarrick, general baddie, sex king and ancient incubus general. Drawn like a tractor beam to him, his first sexual attraction to a man in case you were wondering and WHOOPSIE! Matthew finds himself in a pickle. However, for one so young he is exceedingly powerful which is precisely what gets him out of said pickle with Tarrick and his hunter/incubi entourage. Well, sort of gets him out of a pickle. It gets him not dead so that's a win, but then the bad wrong begins. Suffice to say, these two paranormal superpowers do not see eye to eye and have been at war for centuries so... what's a little torture of a young vamp? To be clear, Captive is not torture porn but it is certainly violent and dark. Yet, despite, or maybe because of, all the bad wrong there is definitely something between Matthew and Tarrick. I'm just not sure what that something is at this point which is part of what intrigues me about this series. The other selling point is the action. What can I say? I'm feeling a little bloodthirsty. There is action galore! It was glorious: fighting, decapitation, slaughter, destruction, bludgeoning and general savagery abound. There are some unusual paranormal beings and a fair amount of sexy times happening too. WARNING: all of these characters are bisexual thus there is m/f sex on page. All of the above in and of itself would be persuasive enough reasons to read this story but what takes it next level is Lane's crafting of these characters as not just morally grey but complex and layered, not just the main characters either. There are many, many characters all of which are pulling their weight in this story. That's rare imo. Many of them oftentimes make unexpected and/or infuriating decisions but that is precisely what makes this story so riveting and difficult to put down. So, apologies to my review books. I'll get to you. One day. If any of the above looks like your kind of thing, you will likely lose a few days to this series. I know I'm about to.

Absolutely adored this book, couldn't stop reading it until i finsihed it (made the mistake of starting it before going to bed.... ofc didn't sleep) It keeps you on the edge form start to finish! It has everything i was looking for: MM, fantasy, battles, great s3gs scenes. Totally helped me with my reader's block lol

Ich liebe diese Serie! Ich zwinge mich gerade dazu, jedes Buch einzeln zu rezensieren und hoffe, ich bekomme es hin, denn ich habe gerade alle drei Bücher hintereinander gelesen. Einige der anderen Rezensenten haben es schon gesagt: auch wenn man schon einige Vampirbücher gelesen hat, findet man hier diverse faszinierende Details. Aber ganz wichtig: die Hauptakteure sind Vampire und Incubi. Menschen spielen quasi keine Rolle. Was auch immer an Schlachten stattfindet, wird vor Menschenaugen verborgen. Matthew ist ein sehr junger Vampir, der von seinem Sire (quasi Erschaffer) verlassen wurde und sich mehr recht als schlecht durchschlägt. Ohne Unterweisung in Vampir-Techniken tappt er in eine Fall des erfahrenen Incubus Tarrick. Wow, was für ein Typ! Sexy as hell, selbstbewusst und charismatisch und dabei auch noch intelligent... Wenn der Krieg zwischen den Vampiren und Incubi sie nicht zu Feinden machen würden, wären sie ein tolles Paar. So endet Matthew leider in Tarricks Kerker. Und was dort passiert ist... teilweise nicht nett (tatsächlich geht es ziemlich zur Sache - nichts für empfindliche Gemüter). Aber ein Vampire ist ja ziemlich unkaputtbar, d.h. der Körper kann sich immer wieder reparieren. Das kann man von der Seele leider nicht sagen. Und so leidet man mit Matthew kann aber auch die Attraktion von Tarrick zu jedem Zeitpunkt verstehen. Insgesamt sind die Charaktere gut ausgearbeitet. Es sind auch tatsächlich ziemlich viele, die man im Blick behalten muss aber es wird dabei nie unübersichtlich. Die Brutalität an einigen Stellen ist beträchtlich aber auch immer recht kurz, d.h. das Leiden der beteiligten Personen wird nicht ausgewalzt. Was soll ich sagen: ich konnte es quasi nicht weglegen. Ich habe eben so lange gelesen bis ich durch war (zum Glück hatte ich die Woche Urlaub und konnte die Nacht zum Tag machen - quasi wie ein Vampir :-)) Die Geschichte geht weiter...

I think it's important to note, this book is a Captive/Slave book. It's not a "BDSM, Master/Slave" book. That was clear to me picking this up. Some of the reviews have been written as to compare the themes in this book to the latter and that's like comparing a stone and feather. In BDSM, there's consent plus a whole lotta other stuff because it's two people deciding what they want in their relationship. That is not this book. This book is not trying to be that. When someone takes you captive, there is NO consent. They are abducting you. This is not a safe, sane, or consensual relationship. If that's not your thing, if you're looking for BDSM, this ain't it so back out now. I can give you some good recs. The "falling for your captor," that's the taboo here people. That's the "wicked fantasy," and why I showed up. Yeah, I'm one of those. So I freaking LOVED this book. That doesn't mean I took pleasure in the abuse (my heart bled for Matthew), but I sure as HELL loved reading it. I loved reading how he got through it. How he fought the odds. It made me feel so many things. I enjoyed suffering with him. I loved that no character in this book was 100% pure. I loved diving into a dark world to see how creatures lived that and under the rules and laws of their kind. It was fascinating. I do think there is a good story here and a stellar plot that's extraordinarily written. We've got a century's old war (that's part of the plot) and we've got Matthew who doesn't know anything about himself (this is his story). I loved the layers of each character. They are all in situations. No one is truly free. They are all making lives for themselves and the people they care about within some horrible limitations. We think we'd do "better" when under a vice but ask any mother, when your child is in danger you'll do anything *anything*. Heck. You'll do anything just to see them have a good life. The characters had to make hard choices. There were no easy answers. I was enthralled. I loved the book. I loved Tarrick's hold on Matthew. I loved how Matthew bowed to him. I loved Matthew falling for him (again, falling for your captor taboo -- so here for it!). I got some of the best shivers. My only peeve, I don't require anything beyond, "Mathew was attracted to Tarrick." I didn't need all the justifications for his attraction to men. I twisted my lips every time Matthew reminded us of his "former straightness." That being said, it did not ruin the book for me. I'm assuming this will fade away as we move forward. My heart was broken at the end of the book but I've got to read the other two books. And I don't believe you Tarrick. Let that be said. The author says she sees 6-9 books for Matthew's story. I hope we get them. I'm in for the long haul. I highly recommend this book.

Had a lot of fun with this book. It's not great litterature but it's very entertaining and enjoyable, just as it's supposed to be really. I will be heading out to book 2!

Una historia interesante que te atrapa, con personajes entrañable e intrigantes conn muchas vueltas y conspiraciones en un mundo fantasioso increíble.