Amazing!! loved this series. love zade and adeline and sibby!!! ( )

"Hunting Adeline," the second book in the Cat and Mouse Duet, has earned a solid 4 out of 5 stars from me. This installment takes a much darker turn compared to the first, and I must say, it's a gripping experience.

I've never been more drawn into a story. Yes, it gets graphic, but it serves a purpose by making you realize that the intense themes depicted actually happen in our world and shouldn't be taken lightly. The novel's willingness to confront these harsh realities adds a layer of depth that I appreciate.

One of the standout elements is the character Zade and the profound love and determination portrayed in the story. Despite the dark undertones, Zade's unwavering commitment to Adeline is truly admirable. The evolution of their relationship, starting from a challenging beginning, brings out the beauty of someone wanting to love you so deeply and take your pain as their own.

Zade's character adds emotional depth to the narrative, making it a poignant and beautiful reading experience. Despite the intensity of the darkness portrayed, the novel skillfully addresses real-world issues within the realm of fiction. ( )

Loved it ( )

I really enjoyed the first 2/3 of this book. The last 3rd could have been streamlined a lot.

Dark, gritty, intense. So many things to love and hate.

I appreciate how the author tackled the dark topics in this duet. The situations were often hard to read, but worked out in the context of the world and characters the author built.

I appreciated the character development in the first 2/3 of this book, and it felt spot-on for the characters.

Steam-wise, this one was a bit over the top. I don't have triggers and I don't mind a good deal of steam. Even knife play and breath play are ok for me. But toward the end, it felt like a rhythm of plot-sex-plot-sex-plot-sex. And, it may be an unpopular opinion, but some of the sex at the end seemed unnecessary. Because of this, it dropped the rating for me. The sex seemed to take away from the resolution of the rest of the story.

All in all, worth the read, but definitely heed the TWs.
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"Hunting Adeline" by H.D. Carlton is a dark romance novel that delves into intense and triggering themes, exploring the boundaries of love, desire, and the human psyche. From the outset, it is important to note that this book contains graphic and disturbing scenes, including explicit depictions of rape, violence, torture, and various forms of abuse. Readers should exercise caution and approach this book with a full understanding of its content.

The story revolves around Adeline, a complex and resilient character who finds herself caught in a web of darkness and manipulation. The narrative explores the darker aspects of human relationships, delving into the depths of psychological trauma, power dynamics, and the limits of desire. Adeline's journey is not for the faint of heart, as she confronts the horrors of human trafficking, slave trade, and the consequences of severe PTSD.

H.D. Carlton has crafted a narrative that unapologetically dives into the darkest corners of the human experience. The author's writing style is raw and visceral, expertly capturing the emotional turmoil and the harrowing situations the characters find themselves in. The story's pacing is relentless, driving the reader forward with a sense of urgency and a constant feeling of unease.

The relationship between Adeline and Zade, the central characters, is complicated and filled with tension. The author navigates a fine line between exploring the complexities of power dynamics and consent while venturing into uncomfortable territory. The inclusion of explicit sexual situations, including particular kinks such as blood play, knife play, degradation, and somnophilia, adds an additional layer of darkness to the story. Readers should be prepared for these explicit scenes and be aware of their own personal boundaries.

While "Hunting Adeline" excels in its ability to evoke strong emotions and create a sense of suspense, it is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the graphic depictions of violence and abuse excessive and uncomfortable. Additionally, the exploration of these dark themes may overshadow the development of secondary characters and the broader narrative arc.

It is an unflinching exploration of trauma, power, and desire, and it demands a resilient and open-minded reader. If you are comfortable with explicit content and are intrigued by stories that delve into the depths of the human psyche, this book may provide a thought-provoking and intense reading experience. However, if you are sensitive to graphic and triggering material, it is advisable to approach this book with caution or consider alternative reading options. ( )