Book Review: The Beast (Black Dagger Brotherhood #14) by J. R. Ward

More Rhage and Mary? Yes, please! I loved The Beast and getting more of these two and this world. This story in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series consumed me!

The Beast (Black Dagger Brotherhood #14) by J. R. Ward

Nothing is as it used to be for the Black Dagger Brotherhood. After avoiding war with the Shadows, alliances have shifted and lines have been drawn. The slayers of the Lessening Society are stronger than ever, preying on human weakness to acquire more money, more weapons, more power. But as the Brotherhood readies for an all-out attack on them, one of their own fights a battle within himself…

For Rhage, the Brother with the biggest appetites, but also the biggest heart, life was supposed to be perfect—or at the very least, perfectly enjoyable. Mary, his beloved shellan, is by his side and his King and his brothers are thriving. But Rhage can’t understand—or control—the panic and insecurity that plague him…

And that terrifies him—as well as distances him from his mate. After suffering mortal injury in battle, Rhage must reassess his priorities—and the answer, when it comes to him, rocks his world...and Mary’s. But Mary is on a journey of her own, one that will either bring them closer together or cause a split that neither will recover from...

5 out of 5 stars

I loved The Beast, it was fantastic! I turned the pages like a madwoman, excited for what was to come next. Rhage and Mary are the best!

Mary and Rhage are one of my all-time favorite couples so I loved getting more of them. I enjoyed seeing how their world was changing and growing. The struggles they were going through were so emotional, I loved how they came together and how they were stronger in the end. I adored the changes that were happening with them as a family and I loved the interactions taking place. Rhage had so many moments that made my heart melt, I couldn’t get enough.

There were lots of stories expanded on and some new things introduced. The more I read, the more I got excited about it. I loved getting more on Assail and seeing his storyline evolve. I felt like he had some really poignant things happen in this book. I love what's happening with Layla as well as with Qhuinn and Blay. All of it was so touching and I love the family they've formed and the bonds they have. I'm super excited to get to Layla and Xcor’s stories. I liked a new character introduced as well who will be in The Sinner, and I already have a ton of questions about it. It just keeps the series exciting and fresh. There were also some things that I didn’t see coming, I was so thrilled about the connections revealed.

I feel like I'm on repeat when talking about the Black Dagger Brotherhood series but I think it’s truly excellent. There is such a great build as the story moved along and I was consumed by everything. I love the Brothers and their good-natured ribbing, the bonds the women have, and what Lassiter brings. I love the family that Mary and Rhage have formed and new connections that have been made. It was an amazing story.