This new romance series by Karina Halle is exciting and unputdownable. Once I began reading this book I could not stop until the very end

3.5 stars

Even though I read the first book in this series, "Discretion", which featured the two main characters of this novel as side characters, I didn't necessarily predict a story for these two.

I am not new to the 'forbidden romance' trope but for me, this novel took my experience of that trope to a different level. I don't want to give anything away but I will say that I think the author executed this specific relationship and trope perfectly because typically, I don't think I would have been on a board with a similar relationship--no matter the circumstance. Yet with this novel, there was an explanation and eventually I was rooting for the couple once I got over some hesitation.

This novel featured somewhat of a slow burn romance which was tension filled making some of the scenes even more HOT (more like sweltering).

Overall, this was a good and thrilling read. It actually felt sort of like reading a James Bond movie because it was so action packed. I can't wait to read the next book in this Dumont series.

***Thank you to the publisher for supplying me with an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***

Do you like your romance with a side of piping hot murder/mystery? Straight out of the Hallmark Mystery Channel but ramped with a lot of erotic chemistry between the two characters. Hot off the heels of the first novel (even though it can be read as a standalone) these two characters are fighting familial tensions and murderous intentions. Seraphine feels orphaned all over again now that her father has died. We delve into her emotions and Halle does an amazing job of navigating the turbulent waters while also dealing with stalkers, vipers in her nest and a romance that has finally reach volcanic temperature. From car chases, to midnight meetings, this novel will keep you on your feet. I cannot wait for the next book because I need to know what happens next!

Having read Discretion, this was definitely different! It was very good slow burn between cousins. So you can expect some forbidden and taboo romance. And I would say this is a lot more suspenseful than Discretion.

I wasn't a fan of the first book in this series so I was hesitant to start the second. But I figured I'd give it a shot anyway because I'm such a big fan of this author's work. Unfortunately, I think this series just isn't my cuppa tea. The drama and soap opera antics are exactly what the author was going for, I just prefer stories that are a bit more down to earth. I couldn't connect with the story the way I would've like and decided to shelve it at this time.

4.5 Suspenseful CROWNS
I am absolutely loving this world, the rivalry between the sides of the Dumont family and the suspense that stems from it. I’m absolutely captivated by it all.

Blaise and Serpahine might not be everyone’s cup of tea, because they are cousins, but not by blood. Seraphine was adopted into the Dumont family, so she has zero blood relation to them, but this still might be a hard pass for some as they call themselves cousins throughout the book. It didn’t, however bother me. I enjoyed seeing them develop through the years. And while Blaise is from the bad side of the Dumonts, he wants to be good. He tries to protect her and do what is right in a family of wrong. Serpahine is responsible for the suspense of the story and the evolving mystery from book one.

I absolutely loved the pacing of this book and the overarching plot line. There are times where the romance takes a back seat to the romance, but I dint mind that overall. And if you love audibles, definitely check this one out.

Karina Halle has crafted one of my favorite worlds from her. I am enjoying every single page.

Disarm by Karina Halle is book 2 in the Dumont series and it centers around Seraphine and Blaise. Since reading Discretion I've wanted their book. You could say it's enemies-to-lovers with a forbidden aspect #justhowilikeit.

Seraphine and Blaise are cousins but not related by blood. Seraphine was adopted by the Dumont family when she was nine-years old. She always felt like she never belonged. She's the Indian girl with the brown skin and her uncle's side of the family never fails to remind her that she is not a Dumont. Yet there's always been this spark, instant connection and attraction between Seraphine and Blaise. One night while they were both in Mallorca for a family vacation, one thing leads to another and they no longer fight the temptation. But things do not end well. Soon they grow to hate each other, acting as if the other does not exist.

Power, greed, betrayal, and deceit rule this world Karina has created with an iron fist...

Seraphine will stop at nothing until she discovers the truth behind her father's death. She knows it in her heart that he was murdered and she suspects Gautier (her uncle) is behind it. Now Blaise is asked by his brother, Pascal to follow her and put an end to her snooping. Blaise has never shown any loyalty towards his family and now he's asked to show it.

Will Blaise turn his back on his family and help the girl he's always loved or will he convince her to stop playing with fire?

Disarm was a suspenseful, action-packed story that will have you biting your nails in anticipation! The romance was slow but equally sweet at the same time. I'm intrigued for the next book, which just so happens to be Pascal's story 💜 Let's go!


*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Montlake Romance through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*

It wasn't far into Disarm that I had a strong feeling this was going to be a 5 star kind of book! I was practically addicted to the drama and the romance! I love the elements of a forbidden love between Seraphine and Blaise. They have this undeniable pull towards each other, but nothing was stacked in their favor. The build up throughout the book was fantastic, they have so much sparks it a wonder they didn't combust. I absolutely loved their relationship, and I really loved the drama and suspense. There is no shortage of story at all! I loved every element of Disarm to pieces! Such a fantastic story!!

3.5

This was the second book in a series. It can be read as a stand alone but reading the first one would definitely help. While there were parts that I loved there were times that I was missing something. Maybe once the series is done and comes full circle I’ll be able to understand it more. Loved the enemies to lovers and how they cared for each other deeply even if they felt they couldn’t be together. Overall it was ok, I am actually really excited about the next book.

I really enjoyed this story. I enjoyed it even more than the first one in this series. I was fully invested in these characters and on the edge of my seat wanting to know what would happen next throughout the story. I loved the chemistry between the characters and I am definitely looking forward to more.

Wow.

End of review.

No, for real though. Disarm by Karina Hall is book 2 in The Dumonts series. It’s meant to read as a standalone book, but I’d highly recommend reading Discretion (book 1) first. We get a lot of groundwork story in book 1 that really set the scene for what was happening in book 2. I don’t think I would’ve understood the magnitude of what was happening without book one.

This book was SOOOOOOOO different than the first book. The format was different because it switched back and forth from past to present. The dynamic between the characters was totally different. And talk about a slow burn!

Blaise and Seraphine are cousins by law, but not by blood. Neither has ever felt like they’ve really fit in with their families. But they come from opposing sides of the family and have grown up in a family where they were taught to hate each other. But, do they? Their relationship has been complicated since they were kids, and Disarm explores the idea of what happens when you break all the rules.

I usually feel super connected to the hero in a story. I’m a sucker for charm and easily find the lead guys swoonworthy in most of the books I read in this genre. But, Blaise was not that. He didn’t charm the pants off of the world around him. He’s admittedly untrustworthy and dark and borderline slimy. But yet, I really wanted a happy ending for him even though I knew what that would mean.

Seraphine was really something. I could really feel her pain sometimes. It was heartbreaking to watch someone’s world fall apart around her while some of her biggest fears came true. But she’s strong, won’t back down from a fight, and absolutely determined to defend the honor of her father’s legacy.

This story was so captivating! The sexual tension between these two could cut my kindle in half with a knife. I found myself rooting for the villain. I found myself questioning my morals. I felt myself feeling the roller coaster of emotions the characters were feeling. And, I was 1000% invested in this story. GREAT writing. Deep, dark story. Amazing book!

5 Stars
Title: Disarm
Author: Karina Halle
Series: Dumonts #2

First things first- While I really enjoyed the first book in this series, I truly LOVED this one!!! I don’t know if I’m going to be able to explain what it was that made it so different, but I’m going to try.

I loved Ms. Halle’s writing in Disarm. She was able to take a character [Blaise], that I did not like in the first book, and made me fall head over heels for him in this story. There were so many layers with this character and watching them all unfold-it was incredible. Plus the way he was with Seraphine-gahhh! I seriously had the biggest smile on my face. Seraphine was a complex character as well. She had been through so much in her life and was so lost. Once Blaise shows her his true colors, everything she thought she knew changes.

Disarm was a fantastic story that kept me engaged from the first page to the last. The suspense, the characters, and the storyline was pure perfection. I am so looking forward to book 3!

Disarm by Karina Halle is the second book in her The Dumonts Series. Every book can easily be read as a standalone. For best reading experience I recommend to read the books in order. The previous book is Discretion.
Disarm is nothing like Discretion, Olivier and Sadie's story.
Disarm is Seraphine and Blaise's story. Seraphine is Olivier's little sister. But she grew up different than her adoptive brothers. Her early years were bad, real bad. Now she works in her late father's empire, but something is amiss, seems not right. She's grieving the loss of her beloved father, but under the surface there's more.
Blaise Dumont is her cousin and he never really fit in with his family. He's the odd man out of his sheming family. Ordered to have a look at Seraphine, it's no wonder he develops feelings for the exotic beauty.
Disarm is a fast paced, breathtaking romance with thriller elements. Disarm had me captivated from chapter one and had me on the edge of my seat from start til the end. I read the book, cover to cover, in one sitting. A story full of suspense, danger and drama. I give 4,5 Stars and can't wait to read Pascal's story.

Life as Seraphine knew it changed when she was adopted into the Dumont family when she was nine years old. No longer alone she was accepted as an equal by her immediate family and enjoyed a happy childhood. She has proven herself to be a worthy part of the family business but not everyone is happy that she is there.

After the death of her father her adopted cousin Blaise’s family are determined to regain control of the business and don’t care if she becomes collateral damage. When she starts investigating her father’s death it brings Blaise back into her life and the chemistry and connection they have always had between them is stronger than ever. As the chemistry between them ignites will Blaise have to choose between loyalty to his family and his love for Seraphine?

Seraphine is strong and determined while Blaise is determined to protect her. Filled with suspense, lies and betrayal they soon realize that the only ones they can trust is each other and that is what makes their romance so special.

I really enjoy this authors darker / anti hero reads and whilst this is nowhere near as dark as The Artist Trilogy or The Sins Duer, I loved the mystery and the hero’s transformation.

This is the 2nd book in the series and we were introduced to Seraphine and Blaise ( love the name btw 😍) and the premise of the story in Discretion.

Told in dual POV, I liked the unravelling of all the family secrets and seeing what misunderstandings and circumstances led Seraphine and Blaise to find themselves in their present situation.

I loved Seraphine strength of character but I can’t say I was really a fan. Blaise on the other hand I really enjoyed seeing him through the decisions he made and finally standing up for himself and his happiness. His dark and broody nature also made him a very appealing character to read.

Disavow is next and I’m looking forward to see if Pascal can redeem himself in my eyes!

Thank you again to Netgalley, Montlake Romance, Social Butterfly PR and Ms Halle for an early copy of this book.

I love it when a book keeps me at the edge of my seat, and the danger, excitement and romance tick all the right boxes for me. Blaise and Seraphine were very much alike. They both were strong, determined, loyal and stubborn. Despite their antagonism, the romance between them was evident from the beginning.

A dark past has molded Blaise Dumont into the man he is today. It determines his actions and behavior. He is complex and manipulative, which is just a mask to hide his true feelings for his cousin, Seraphine Dumont, the adopted daughter of Ludovic and Eloise Dumont. I liked the way he became protective of her, and loved seeing him stand up to his father and brother for her. Despite the family wealth and power, he has not led the happiest of life and is lonely and disillusioned. His family is totally dysfunctional, with relationships based on greed and power play. There is a strong rivalry between him and his brother.

Seraphine is no damsel in distress, she is focused and smart. I really loved her character, she was strong yet vulnerable. She doesn’t trust Blaise and won’t give him the power to hurt her. I loved the banter between them as they dealt with old memories. They both want to clear the air but nothing is simple between them.

The thrill and suspense really drew me, I liked that the book kept me guessing. The mystery surrounding Seraphine’s father death was well done, the pacing was perfect and the ending was not rushed. The author took the time to develop the storyline, with some flashbacks, and the characters.

Disarm is the continuation of the Dumont family and this book focuses on Seraphine, the adopted sister of Oliver from book 1. We learn more about the Dumonts and it just keeps getting more intriguing. The mystery deepens and getting to find out what happens is fascinating. There is also the romance between Seraphine and her adopted cousin Blaise. The push-and-pull between the two is angsty and it changes frequently. Along with the secrets and twists and turns it makes for an interesting story. Overall an alright read.

When I first read the blurb for this book I was hesitant. I have cousin's who are related to me by adoption. Then I sat back and thought, well this isn't really any different than the "stepbrother" romance books. I never really got into those, but I was never really against them. In the case of Seraphine & Blaise, they were related by adoption, but they never grew up around each other. I don't know if that makes it better in your eyes, but there it is. 

This series has a very "Dynasty" feel to it, I loved that show (both reboots). There is secrets, lots of scandal, and a whole bunch of betrayal to keep you warm at night. The soap opera feel to this makes getting consumed in the story all the better. The slow burn romance with a side of romantic suspense is my favorite part of the book. 

I thoroughly enjoyed Blaise is this story. He was the thee part of the story that I loved the most. He is dedicated, and solid, and so protective. I swooned hard over him. Seraphine is exactly who she says she is. She's so strong and determined. These two together are perfect. 

While I get this make make you a bit uncomfortable if you are not into "taboo" romance, you should try it. It's a great story with so many layers. I'm glad I moved past my initial hesitancy and read it anyways.

Disarm by Karina Halle is action-packed romantic suspense. I loved the flashbacks to the past that build the tension between Seraphine and Blaise. This story is filled with angst, danger, and scandalous, steamy attraction between the main characters who are cousins (don't worry -- she was adopted so they're cousins in name only). I really enjoyed being transported to the streets of Paris in this thrilling read!⁣

🔥🔥/5 steam rating for some description, sexual tension, & a couple of sex scenes⁣

Disarm is the second book in the Dumonts series and is a complete standalone. It’s a romance with some added suspense throughout. Seraphine was adopted as a young girl by the Dumonts. Blaise is a Dumont, and her cousin, although not related by blood. Seraphine believes her adopted father was murdered, and she is trying to find out the truth. The two were in a lot of dangerous situations, and Blaise protected and saved her a lot. The book goes back and forth between past and present, with the past mostly being about their developing relationship.

Honestly, I’m pretty on the fence about this one. While it was a page turner, I really struggled with the romance. I know they aren’t technically related, but the word cousin kept coming up right when they’d get together, and it just felt weird. I never fully got on board with their relationship because of this. I did like the characters each separately, just the romance part of it didn’t work for me. On the other hand, the suspense kept me very interested and I was flipping pages quickly to get answers. it was a quick, entertaining read and for this reason, I would recommend it.

* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.