Red Thorns

Rina Kent

Book 1 in the series:Thorns Duet

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you're a fan of dark, twisty romance with taboo edge and deep psychological tension, Red Thorns delivers the goods. Rina Kent crafts chemistry that's electrifying, complex, and impossible to look away from - perfect for readers who love emotionally layered antiheroes and heroines with grit and sass. The dual perspectives offer a front-row seat to both characters' inner battles, and the story isn't afraid to get spicy, kinky, or push boundaries. If you appreciate high-stakes drama, mind-bending plot twists, and deliciously messy relationships, this book will keep you up way past your bedtime.

Who May Not Like This Book:

This one won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. Some readers found the darker themes and dub-con elements troubling, especially where consent is ambiguous at times. If you're sensitive to morally gray characters, emotional volatility, or explicit kink that walks a fine line, tread carefully. The representation of Asian American identity in the book has also drawn criticism for leaning on stereotypes rather than authenticity. And if you prefer your romance tidy and wholesome, you might find the dynamic between Sebastian and Naomi a little too intense or uncomfortable.

A wild, daring dark romance packed with sizzling tension and jaw-dropping twists. Not for the faint of heart, but totally addictive if you love your romance on the edge.

About:

'Red Thorns' in the series 'Thorns Duet' by author Rina Kent is a dark and twisted tale of Naomi and Sebastian, whose relationship is built on a lie that leads to a tumultuous journey of self-discovery and intense emotional connection. The book delves into themes of psychological complexity, passion, and intense relationships, with a plot that is full of unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The writing style is described as emotionally consuming, with well-developed characters and a storyline that explores darker themes with a touch of suspense.

Characters:

Characters are deeply flawed, with complex identities and emotional struggles, enriching the story's depth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style features dual perspectives with raw emotional language and vivid descriptions.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a complicated romance with psychological depth and unexpected twists, exploring themes of power and control.

Setting:

The setting is contemporary and collegiate, enhancing the characters' social dynamics.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally intense, with rapid developments and cliffhangers, though some found it rushed.

Blackwood College is one gigantic building with an ancient feel to it. A few towers stand proudly at every corner as if they’re the watchdogs of this place—or that’s what I’ve thought ever since I enr...

Notes:

The chemistry between the main characters is described as complicated and intense.

Their romance is described as addictive and consuming, pushing boundaries.

The characters have a psychological connection that develops through their erotic needs.

Naomi is a second-generation Japanese immigrant and a cheerleader, while Sebastian is a popular quarterback.

The book is written in dual perspectives, providing deeper insight into each character's thoughts and feelings.

Naomi has a sarcastic sense of humor, contrasting with the darker aspects of the story.

The author explores various types of sexual and sensual expression, making it a unique reading experience.

The plot features twists and turns and ends with a significant cliffhanger.

The story deals with themes of consent, particularly in a dark romance context.

Sebastian is portrayed as both charming and psychopathic, with emotional detachment.

The relationship has an interracial dynamic, which is appreciated by some readers.

The author includes cultural references, but some readers feel poorly researched or stereotypical elements are present.

Readers are divided on how the themes of consent are handled in the story, with some finding it problematic.

The book explores the characters' emotional baggage and their need for control within their relationship.

Overall, it presents a mix of dark romance, intense relationships, and thought-provoking psychological elements.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains high levels of triggers, including themes of consensual non-consent and emotional trauma.

Has Romance?

Romance is a central and intense aspect of the story.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

A bet turned into a disaster.

Sebastian Weaver is the star quarterback and the college's heartthrob.

Rich. Handsome. Bastard.

Everyone's attention flocked toward him and all the girls dreamed to be with him.

Not me.

At least, not until he made a move on me.

See, I thought I was stronger than Sebastian's charms.

I thought I could survive being his target.

I thought wrong.

Little did I know that he will make my most twisted fantasies come true.

Fantasies I didn't know existed...

Red Thorns is a dark new adult book that contains dubious situations some readers might find offensive and/or triggering.

This is part of a duet and is not standalone.

June 2021

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305 pages

Ratings (20)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (8)
Liked It (6)
It Was OK (3)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (47):

Read It (25)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (14)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (6)

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