Wicked Games (Dark Obsession #1)
by Zoe Blake
The heroine is kidnapped by a billionaire who gaslights her into believing she's living in the Victorian era—everything is a twisted ruse that blurs her reality as he forces dominance over her mind and body. The abuse, mind games, and non-consent are at the heart of this psychological and emotional torment.
Tropes & Themes
About This Book
In "Wicked Games," Elizabeth Larkin, a 22-year-old college student and theater actress in London, becomes the target of Richard Payne, a powerful and domineering billionaire. After a performance in a Victorian-era play, Elizabeth is abducted and finds herself trapped in a world that blurs the lines between reality and illusion. Richard manipulates her perception, convincing her that she is his obedient ward in the Victorian era, subjecting her to psychological and physical torment.
As Elizabeth's grasp on reality begins to fade, she becomes entangled in a twisted game of dominance and submission. Richard's wealth and influence shield him from consequences, allowing his dark desires to unfold unchecked. Elizabeth's attempts to escape are met with increasing resistance, and each submission to Richard's demands tightens his control over her. The story delves into themes of gaslighting, non-consent, and the psychological manipulation inherent in abusive relationships.
The narrative is dark, intense, and suspenseful, immersing readers in a slow-burn psychological thriller that explores the depths of obsession and control. The atmosphere is oppressive, reflecting the heroine's internal struggle and the external forces that seek to dominate her. The tension escalates as Elizabeth's reality becomes increasingly distorted, leading to a harrowing confrontation with her captor.
What Readers Say
Many readers praise the immersive writing that vividly transports them to the Victorian era. Fans note the intense psychological depth, offering a gripping exploration of mind games and manipulation. Some readers find the dark themes and non-consensual elements deeply unsettling and challenging to digest. Critics highlight the abrupt ending, which may leave readers seeking a more conclusive resolution. This book is recommended for those interested in dark romance with complex psychological dynamics.
Reader Reviews
7 curated reviewsKim
May 20, 2014
Love these characters!
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews by Kim First of all, Wicked Games is a standalone but it contains some spoilers relating to the first book, Lover Undercover. For that reason, I strongly recommend you read Lover Undercover first. Stacy Roberts is finally able to tell all the naysayers in her small hometown of Two Trout, Tennessee that she has finally made something of herself. She is the star of a new hit tv show and everyone is in love with her. Everyone includes her hot Detective boyfriend Ian Ford and his family. When Ian asks Stacy to take their relationship to another level,
Ginny Rose
Nov 2, 2015
Wicked Hot
Why I waited so long to read this novella, I don't know. But it was the right dose of a sexy. Short, sweet and to the point. Ian and Stacey are introduced in Lover Undercover where we get a glimpse of how their relationships starts. In Wicked Games, we get the grovel aspect of their relationship. They're great together. The sex and chemistry is off the charts hot. But when Stacey's past clashes with her present and clouds her future, her feelings for Ian take a back seat. I read some reviews where it was stated the story felt rushed. I disagree. It was well developed and easily underst
Kindle Customer
Apr 1, 2014
Short but good
Getting to know Ian and Stacey was interesting. They had chemistry like crazy but Stacey didn't feel good enough for Ian so they broke up. Circumstances brought them back together and learned as long as she had Ian she could overcome her past. Read on.
Nicola_1202
Mar 31, 2014
Short, sexy & some suspense
If you have read Lover Undercover, then this novella is an absolute must read as it focusses on Stacy & Ian, whilst treating us to a little more of Trevor and Kylie. Short it may be, but this Halloween turns into a true nightmare and Samanthe Beck delivers everything from suspense to sexiness. I originally read this as part of the Lovers Unmasked Anthology
Justjane
Apr 29, 2014
Pleasant enough but felt rushed
This was a pleasant enough read, but in the novella format, everything felt rushed. I also felt the story line was not believable in stretches, which distracted me from losing myself as I read. Would have preferred a more well thought out longer novel with these characters. Mild recommendation, if you can get it at a deep discount.
Clyde J.
Apr 21, 2014
Less Enthusiastic
Wicked Games was alright, but not a 5 star read for me. It just didn't grab my attention and keep it. However, Ian did.
