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Hell Night #2

Bitter Sweet Hell

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The Hell Night Series continues with JW's story!

As the Sheriff of Malus, Texas, JW takes his oath to protect its citizens very seriously. Born from an ugly past, he swears no child, woman, or man will ever endure what he and his brothers have. As he seeks retribution of the ones who have wronged him, his past and his present finally collide. Secrets are laid open. Ones that are so heinous, they'll rock the very foundation of JW's life.

When Eden blazes into town, hot with her own threatening troubles baring down on her, JW steps in as her protector. It's not only his duty, but a need he can't ignore. The chemistry between the two is instant and all too tempting.

Giving in was easy, but the consequences were high.

JW never knew the disturbing destruction that would rain down on Malus by getting involved with the red-headed gypsy.

Danger lurks just around the corner--it's dark, terrifying, and malicious.

JW is bitter because of his gruesome past. Eden is sweet despite hers. Together, will they create a beautiful future, or will it all end in bitter sweet hell?

DISCLAIMER: Intended for readers 18 years and older due to mature content, abusive situations, and harsh language. May contain triggers for some readers. Please read with caution.

300 pages, ebook

First published January 10, 2019

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About the author

Alex Grayson

47 books2,428 followers
Alex Grayson is the bestselling author of heart pounding, emotionally gripping contemporary romance including the Jaded Series, the Consumed Series, and two standalone novels. Her passion for books was reignited by a gift from her sister-in-law. After spending several years as a devoted reader and blogger, Alex decided to write and independently publish her first novel in 2014 (an endeavor that took a little longer than expected). The rest, as they say, is history.

Originally a southern girl, Alex now lives in Ohio with her husband, two children, two cats and dog. She loves the color blue, homemade lasagna, casually browsing real estate, and interacting with her readers. Visit her website, www.alexgraysonbooks.com, or find her on social media!

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Website – www.alexgraysonbooks.com
Email – [email protected]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,462 reviews10.2k followers
January 3, 2019
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‘BITTER SWEET HELL’ Is the second book in Alex Greyson’s ‘Hell Night' series. It can be read as a standalone but I suggest you read ‘Trouble in Hell’ first. Dual Perspectives.

This is JW’s Story, it’s not a pretty story, but it’s his story to tell. Nothing is all that it seems in the township of Malus, Texas, run by four non blood brothers, ( Trouble, Emo, Judge and JW) they rule the town with an iron fist. A township that doesn’t welcome outsiders.

A new township has arisen like a phenix rising from the ashes from the darkest history is now shrouded in safety.

But what if that safety is put under jeopardy. When a routine car chase turns into anything but when JW pulls over a car going over the speed limit because she's literally running for her life, before he knows it he’s offering Eden protection from an ex that is out for blood, in a town that is wary of strangers which could put the inhabitants in severe danger themselves.

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Eden and JW straight off the bat are attracted to each other, it's dangerous for JW to get close to an outsider due to what goes on within the town could very well destroy them all.

The woman is temptation who I'm learning really quickly is bordering on obsession. Anytime she's near, my eyes are glued to her. I smell her intoxicating scent, and I want to lick every delectable inch of her body.

This author unleashed everything she could on us, it went darker, grittier, uglier than the first book, nothing prepared me for what unfolded within these pages, my heart broke for the broken souls, their heart wrenching story cut me to the core as you root for justice to be served to ones who needed to be doubt with accordingly. This series isn’t for the faint of heart, it goes where very few authors will step, this author ran towards the darkness with us the readers following by devouring her words.

If you like to take a step into the dark side I highly recommend this series, it’s unique, it’s raw, it’s gritty, and it makes for damn good reading.

* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *

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Profile Image for The Sassy Bookworm.
3,843 reviews2,835 followers
January 5, 2019
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description I feel a little weird saying I enjoyed this book immensely when there is nothing remotely enjoyable about children being raped (and be warned there are graphic scenes of that in this book). Nevertheless, I completely love this series (so far). The writing is fantastic. The pace was well done. It is told in a dual POV format with flashbacks to the past. The plot is engaging, with some twists and turns and a thread of mystery concerning the events that changed things for these men (boys). Last, it was all wrapped up in a super sweet ending.

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Both JW and Eden were very likable characters. I adore this group of guys SO much. JW wasn't a manwhore and has been celibate for a bit. He was alpha. He was sweet. He was sexy. Who doesn't love a strong protective man in a uniform?! Eden wasn't a virgin (thank god), in fact, she had a healthy sex life before meeting JW. She was also sweet. Loving. A great friend. Of course, we also have a fantastic cast of secondary characters as well. There wasn't any OW or OM drama per se. Just the heroine's crazy ex that is the baddie. That is pretty much all there is to say...I LOVED it and can't wait to get my hands on Judge's book! I am curious to see if he keeps all his mistresses or chooses one, or gets a whole new heroine. I have a theory about what will happen with him. I also have a theory on who Emo's heroine is going to be. Yup, I am full of theories (lol).

SIDE NOTE: I was completely gutted by one of the things that happened in this book. Like, I can't believe you went there, Miz Grayson. I am not sure I will ever forgive you for doing that...sniff. description

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Profile Image for AJ.
3,134 reviews1,046 followers
January 7, 2019
4.5 stars

The second book in the Hell Night series, this book is everything I was hoping it to be! Dark, gritty and violent with a suspenseful edge and a sexy and intense love story, I was glued to my kindle from start to finish. The first book in this series floored me with its dark intensity and its raw, gritty subject matter, and this book is no different we are taken back to the town of Malus, and the four badass boys hellbent on vengeance who run it.

The four main characters of this series are a group of men who, along with all of the other children in their small Texas town, were the victims of ‘Hell Night’ – a night once a month where they were subjected to unthinkable sexual abuse and assault. It’s incredibly disturbing, and scenes are revisited in flashback on the page so beware this massive potential trigger. The ‘tradition’ ended in a night of destruction and murder, and after making their escape, the boys returned to their home town as adults to turn it into a place of peace and safety – and they do that by meting out their own form of justice to those who inflict abuse on others.

JW is the Sheriff of Malus. He takes pride in his work, protecting the people who live in his town, and working with his ‘brothers’ to continue their mission of vengeance as they hunt down those who hurt them so badly. The town isn’t at all welcoming to strangers, but when JW pulls over a woman for speeding outside of town, he can see that she has been assaulted and he feels an instant protectiveness over her and brings her into the fold.

Eden is a woman on the run after discovering the man that she was seeing is an abusive, psychopathic killer. His family’s criminal connections keep him protected and she has no option other than to run and hide, knowing that he is tracking her down in the belief that she has something of his. Getting pulled over by a cop is the last thing she needs, but it turns out that meeting JW is the best thing that could have happened to her as she is brought into his town, given a place to stay and seemingly has the gorgeous Sheriff at her beck and call as he learns her story and goes all out to protect and defend her.

There’s no slow and steady with these two. Their attraction is strong from the moment they meet, and though neither of them have any intention of diving into a relationship, they can’t resist their pull to each other and the chemistry sizzles with every glance, every meaningful stare and every seemingly innocent touch. They flirt and banter, and there are moments of sweetness as they open up to each other, and JW holds nothing back as he goes all possessive and protective alpha.

“He had his hand on you.”
“It was just a simple handshake,” I scoff.
“He had his hand on you and looked like he wanted to do a fuck of a lot more than shake your hand. No man touches what’s mine or looks at you the way he did.”
“I’m not yours,” I retort irritably.
“Like fuck, you aren’t. Every single Goddamn inch of you is mine. Deny it all you want, Gypsy. It won’t change that fact.”

They don’t mess around or play games, they just follow their hearts – and their libidos – into a hot, emotionally intense relationship, holding nothing back as they dive in, and I loved that! JW is a fantastic alpha hero, and though he is damaged, he doesn’t let his past stand in his way of fighting for the woman he wants. And Eden is so accepting of him. They’re a great match, and I loved watching everything progress between them.

But Eden’s ex is still determined to find her. He has followed her to Malus, making his presence, and his intentions, known. He will stop at nothing to have her, bringing fear and violence to the small town once again, and before it’s over, nothing will ever be the same again.

Life can be ugly and it can be downright nasty at times. It’s left to the good people to fix those parts that the assholes of the world have destroyed. Murder is wrong, no matter why it’s doled out or who it’s against, but I recognize in dire circumstances, it may be a necessary evil.

I loved this book. It’s creepy and dark, and there are moments of sheer horror as the story unfolds, but I couldn’t put it down! The subject matter is really intense, and it’s not glossed over. It’s revisited over and over again, as is its lasting impact on the four men who suffered so badly. It’s definitely not an easy read, but it’s balanced by the emotional, and sometimes light-hearted, bond between the ‘brothers’, and the beauty of the unfolding love story, which completely captured my heart. It’s swoony and emotional (and yes, it’s steamy), and the twists, turns and surprises all build to an ending that left me completely satisfied and with a big smile on my face.

After the events of this book, I can’t wait to see what will happen in Judge’s book up next, and the intensity continues to build for Emo, whose tragic story will finish off the series. Bring it on!

4.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Joelle.
1,739 reviews17 followers
October 20, 2022

I am a big fan of this author's books the more of them I read the more I fall in love with this author's books and each and every book we have read so far has been fantastic! Bitter Sweet Hell Was an awesome story that shook me to the core until the very end.

I have really read some very Dark Romance books in my time, but, this story is the darkest to date.I have to say that the story had me on edge the entire time, and it also made me uncomfortable ,make me shake, made me grieve, brought tears to my eyes time and time again.

The story effected you emotionally, it was impossible not to. This story was one of those stories that had you engrossed and enmeshed in this suspenseful story. This story gripped my heart and was so heart-wrenching at times that I thought if I was not going to be able to finish the book out.

I always pick a favorite character and this time around mine is going to be JW. I loved his character from the onset of the story as I loved his protectiveness, his bossy attitude and his sexy smile but, most of all, loved that he was able to move beyond his past, although it will never be forgotten and how much he suffered.

We loved Eden as well, she fit JW perfectly, she was the Light to his Dark. I loved the nickname he gave her of Gypsy because that was my first impression of her also as well as fit her personality.

We have to say that well-loved all the other characters as well, especially those hardened broken men who think they are so broken that they deserve to be alone. My heart went out to each and every of those men for the all suffered from.

This story had us on one heck of an emotional roller coaster ride with all that suspense both present and past, and also for the tragedies both past and present. I can't even talk about Hell Night because it makes me sick and brings me pain.

The romance between JW and Eden was super hot! Playful as well as sweet. What I loved most about the connection these two forged is that she was the perfect balm to his tortured soul.

Overall a superb suspense Dark Romance read that took you on one heck of a ride and it was so emotional, touching, gripping and heart-wrenching that you could not help be engrossed in this tragic story to the very end. I will say that the story stayed with me hours after finish reading it and even effected by dreams that night and not in a good way.

We loved the thrilling ride!

I need to go back and read book one with troubles story because I need to see how all these broken men find their happily ever afters now....

Personal note-This story is not for the faint of heart and not for individuals that have triggers when it comes to excessive violence and rape victims. This story was tragic and effected men, women and children.I do not recommend reading this story at nighttime.
Profile Image for Patricia G..
112 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2022
{ARC Generously Provied by Author}

Five Dark, intense, raw stars

Welcome back to Malus, TX. Bitter Sweet Hell by Alex Grayson is book two in her Hell Night series.

Wow, so this book was quite the mind fuck, but I enjoyed every minute of it. This book was well worth the wait. This book was EXTRAORDINARY! Ms. Grayson you have a talent that supersedes anything I've read to date! You have the talent to literally take over my heart with your writing.. What a story! I stayed up all night long reading this, because I just couldn't put it down

Bitter Sweet Hell is unlike any other book I’ve read and is completely amazing. In fact, it’s the BEST OF THE BEST! I was utterly enchanted from the very first page. The story of JW'S and Eden is different, unique, captivating, heartbreaking and passionate.

This is a dark romance.. No words can describe my emotions, the raw, riveting, at the edge of your seat unfolding of events that captured my heart and tore it to pieces.

Alex Grayson knows how to bring the craziest twists and turns to her stories. They are always dark, wild, and hell entertaining!

I never expected the dark intensity and brutal passionate moments. I underestimated everything when it came to this story and I’m smacking myself for not being as prepared as I should’ve been.

The chemistry between JW's and Eden was so hot!

So much happens in this book, but one thing that stands above it all is the darkness you get thrown into, go into this being aware of that aspect because this author does not hold back... Romance, love, murder, it was gritty and dark enough to spike up my heart rate. Even times where I was sitting anxiously reading at a record speed to see what was going to happen in the next scene.

The story is dark, perturbing and intense with a good dose of eroticism.
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 10, 2019
Dnfed @ 14%

Triggers

I can’t continue. It’s way too dark for me.
Kids being raped by their own parents, brothers being forced to rape their own little sister, it’s semi detailed flashbacks but It’s very Sick, dogs brutally killed. I just can’t.
I can’t separate fiction and reality when this is happening RIGHT NOW all around the world.
Call me a pathetic bitch or anything you want. And I’m sure I’ll be the talk around here because I dnfed this book. But what I just said is not misleading info. So shove it if you say it was. And notice how there’s no rating. So don’t come at me because I tried to read this even though I’m a SGG.
Profile Image for Tee loves Kyle Jacobson.
2,494 reviews176 followers
January 7, 2019
Okay where to start with this review...... first I have to say that this is the first book I have read in the series and I have to say HOLY EFF this book was so much more than what I thought it was going to be. I started reading and was like WOW WTF OMG is this book for real. Some of the things that were in there are definite triggers and had me wondering if I missed something in the blurb because I thought I was getting this romance story with some suspense but then as I kept reading I was like HOLY HELL this book is BRILLIANT!

JW is the man he is all alpha bad arse and no holds bar attitude that I love in a man. Being the sheriff is no easy job especially when you have all that badness going on there but he makes it work because he is determined to rid his town of the trash and get it to be a safe place. SO when he is in hot pursuit of a car and finds out that she needs help because she is running from her ex who is a bad man JW is willing to help her.

With helping Eden JW starts to feel something he has not felt in a long time and that is feelings for this girl. But JW's past has not been a good one so he is treading lightly because he does not want to get hurt. This story is such a wild ride that you have to read this to believe it. So go on out and get book one and then read this one and enjoy the crazy ride this series will take you on!
Profile Image for Debbie Dumke.
74 reviews5 followers
December 23, 2018
Bitter Sweet Hell is the 2nd book in The Hell Night Series, as much as it can be read as a Standalone, I strongly suggest Reading Trouble in Hell 1st to get a full understating of the town of Malus TX, and the four brothers, Trouble, JW, Judge & Emo. It is a Dark Read and may not be for all readers.

Bitter Sweet Hell picks up a few months after TIH ends. And just like TIH, the story goes back in forth between the present and the past when JW was a child in the town of Sweet Haven TX. The transitions are smooth & seamless. As much as you think you know what JW’s childhood was like, Alex gives more details that make the reader’s heart break a bit more with each flashback.

We were introduced to JW as the town of Malus’ sheriff, who like his ‘brothers’, he takes the safety of their town to a new level. Their desire to keep Malus a tight-knit community and not welcoming of strangers hasn’t diminished.

Eden is literally running for her life when she’s pulled over for speeding by JW. When she removes her sunglasses, and he sees she’s been beaten, his protective nature takes over. And he insists she follow him into town making arrangements for her to stay with Judge’s woman Jenny.

JW has had his share of beautiful women, but no one has ever looked as stunning as Eden, in her long flowing skirts, her brightly colored shirts, and loads of bangle bracelets … she looks like an exotic Gypsy. “Gypsy” is what JW begins to call her. Beyond her beauty and her sarcastic whit, there’s something about her that makes him feel things he’s never felt before. The need to protect her is stronger than he can articulate, so much so, he’s willing to go head to head with any of his brothers who try to get her out of town as fast as possible. He doesn’t care if this is the way they need to do things, Gypsy is different, he needs her close to him.

Eden isn’t a virgin by any means, but just being near JW makes her body tingle, makes her lose all rational thought, so she agrees to stay in town for a few days. She can’t figure out why JW, Jenny or anyone else in town is willing to put their lives on the line to help her. She sees the looks of unsaid things passing between them that she doesn’t understand. And as much as she is mentally aware, she knows nothing about any of them, her instincts tell her she can trust them. As time goes on, and danger gets too close for comfort she contemplates leaving town to keep her new-found friends safe, but she knows that JW will keep her safe.

And let’s be honest, the chemistry between them is off the charts, she doesn’t want to leave him.

When Eden’s trouble finally catches up with her, can JW save her or will she die at the hands of a sadistic monster?


This story is jam-packed with: Emotional Upheaval, Anxiety Evoking Danger, Passion, Steamy Sex, Unconditional Love, and Most of all Acceptance.

One of the things that I love about Alex’s writing style is that even though it’s a series and each book highlights a couple, she doesn’t just have the previous couple or other characters around in a “decorative” fashion. She continues to not only have them involved in the story-line, but gives a bit more of a glimpse into their inner workings. I cannot wait to read both Judge & Emo’s stories.
Profile Image for Tracey.
1,443 reviews69 followers
December 25, 2018
I love Alex Grayson's books and I love a dark read, but this one pushed my boundaries a little.

Malus is a town that has a dark past, very dark, twisted and disgusting but that's all changed now the ones that were hurt are running the place.

JW meets the lovely red headed Eden when she enters town, newbies are not welcome in town. This rule is scrubbed when JW found out why she was there.

JW becomes very protective of Eden quickly, she is gorgeous and he is sexually attracted to her and that feeling is returned.

The story has some dark parts which are difficult and trigger warnings need to be mentioned! But beyond the darkness there is a love story that is sexy and deep.

3.5 stars
Profile Image for April.
Author 9 books66 followers
December 22, 2018
This is another hard review to write. Not because it’s a bad book, but because it’s sooooo good and I shouldn’t like it. The writing and the storyline is just wonderful. The characters are people you can visualize. But the despicable treatment described by one human being (is he?) to another is unthinkable. (Can cause triggers) As dark a read as Bitter Sweet Hell is, I actually laughed out loud a couple of times! Author Grayson definitely has a way with words! And the chemistry between JW and Eden is off the charts! I’m so excited for the 3rd book! Four brothers, four stories! Hell Night Series is a must read for me!
PSA – Bitter Sweet Hell is book two of the Hell Night Series. For better understanding of the characters and the city of Malus, Trouble In Hell must be read first.
Profile Image for Manoela.
1,177 reviews25 followers
January 10, 2019
4 Stars

I knew the writing of this author last year, this series captivated me so much in the first book that I was eager to see what she would reserve in her next book. Like the first book in this series, she gives her readers a very good, well written and unique story.A book that has a dark vibe and full of suspense, but also that brings a beautiful love story between two characters.

In Bitter Sweet Heel we have the story of JW and Éden. JW is one of the four boys who survived the torture he was subjected to as a child in his hometown and nowadays is the sheriff of Malus, the city that once was his torment and so many children, but that today everyone takes care to become a safe city for all. And Eden arrives at Malus fleeing his dangerous ex and ends up finding JW a protector.

The story has interesting and intriguing characters, and very well built, from the protagonists to the secondary characters all of them have a weight and importance in this story being impossible not to get involved with all of them.

JW and Eden are great characters, from the ones you like from start to finish. With great chemistry, a solid story, both are great people and their relationship was compelling to me.The secondary characters also catch my eye and I can not wait for what the author has in store for Emmo and Judge.The latter is the next to have his story told and I think that April will not come so soon.

Bitter Sweet Hell brings a very well written story, with very interesting characters, full of suspense and revelations along the way and a very well-developed plot.One of those books that holds my attention from start to finish and leaves me wanting more.

I Received an unreleased copy of this book
Profile Image for Hopelessly Addicted To Books .
3,549 reviews147 followers
December 30, 2018
Book two In the series and I'm crushing hard on all these characters. It is essential that you read the first book as more background is given to ' Hell Night'.

This time we get JW's story, his past is every bit as dark as you would expect. He's the sheriff of the town and man who keeps the peace in the town. Eden is a woman trying to escape an ex and finds herself stuck in Malus.

There is no denying the book has dark themes and will challenge your morality. At it's heart is a man overcoming his past and falling in love. The chemistry between them is off the charts hot, there are some seriously steamy scenes.

This series just keeps getting better with each book. Now I'm off to stalk the author to get details on book three.


reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Profile Image for Robyn.
422 reviews106 followers
June 11, 2019
Bitter Sweet Hell by Alex Grayson is the second book in the Hell Night series and like the first book in the series, Grayson brings her signature brand of darkness and weaves a riveting story that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the final conclusion.

JW, Malus’ sheriff, pulls over a speeding car on the side of the road. Eden is running for her life trying to get as far as she can from an ex-boyfriend out to do her harm. JW takes one look at Eden and knows he has to help her. This is what JW and his brothers do. They help women and children from the evils of the world. The attraction between them is instantaneous and JW will do anything to ensure that Eden stays alive, but with a dangerous predator hot on her heels, neither JW or Eden are prepared for the devastation that will ensue.

Wow! I have to say I thought the first book in the series was rather dark, but Grayson took it to another level in Bitter Sweet Hell. It is gritty, sinister, and quite chilling. The story gets really dark and there are a couple of times where I was completely in utter shock. This is no easy read by any means and there are a lot of flashbacks regarding Hell Night where children were sexually abused including JW and his brothers. There is a particularly violent scene that happens off the pages that is very very disturbing and really left me shocked. No one is safe in Malus this time around.

JW and Eden have this instant connection, but JW knows outsiders are not welcomed in Malus, especially not with how JW and his brothers rule the town. No one can ever find out the secrets of Malus and having an outsider in their ranks put all of the residents in jeopardy. JW knows nothing can really ever happen in the long term between him and Eden, but Eden slowly creeps into his heart and mind which is dangerous enough in itself. I really loved watching Eden and JW growing closer, their passion just burned through the pages. What I really enjoyed the most was how easy it was for them to talk to one another and open up to each other so easily.

We also learn a little more about Emo and what he goes through and how he tortures himself because of the past. I have to say I am REALLY looking forward to his story the most. But, next up we have Judge’s story. Judge is definitely the ladies man of the brothers so it will be interesting to see who will be the one to capture his heart and turn him into a one woman man (I hope!).

Although Bitter Sweet Hell can be read as a standalone, I would highly suggest starting out with the first book in the series, Trouble in Hell as all of the characters are back in the second installment and you might be a little confused with some of the backstory if you start with the second book. I highly recommend both books as Alex Grayson is a fantastic writer and really spins some of the darkest books I have ever read.
Profile Image for Becky Rendon.
3,769 reviews78 followers
January 9, 2019
Sweet Haven, or Hell, is not the kind of place you can wash off. It's seeps into your skin, leeches calcium from your bones, and creates holes in your heart. It's a poison for the soul and a terminal blight on your psyche.

Bitter Sweet Hell is a journey that both fills those holes and unknowingly creates new ones. You absolutely must read Trouble in Hell before venturing on to this new "chapter." I'm saying that as a selfish, needy bookworm. I need you to fully experience Trouble before you move into JW. You needy to understand and feel the terror, pain, and utter despair of the Hell Night to know what motivates these men. You need to know and experience the vile things to fuel you e hatred and disgust. You will be wearing your righteous indignation like an armor before you finish. But don't hang up your armor just yet, we have so much more to go.

JW is considered one of the "softer" brothers. As the sheriff and lawman of the town, he may have been. But as the man drawn to an outsider, we see the alpha male protector in his true beast mode. What a glorious sight to see.

JW is named after a hero of mine. I almost want to get into a debate about his namesake's greatest work. Though if I'm honest, it wouldn't be the first conversation I'd need to have with him. I would ask to be deputized first and foremost.

As I continue to read these characters, it's impossible not to fall harder and harder for each one. Though I find myself continually straying towards thoughts of a different brother, I found I couldn't avoid falling prey to the charms of JW. While falling for the sheriff, it's completely insane to love his other work but I find yet again- it's a bigger draw than the uniform.

So hold onto your cowboy hats and be ready for the bucking of a lifetime because Alex Grayson isn't going to tell you this story without trying (sucessfully) to knock the wind right out of you.

Waiting may not be a virtue I possess but I will try when it comes to Judge and Emo. I know both are going to be even more heartbreaking and I plan to be right there.

Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
2,861 reviews60 followers
January 7, 2019
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)

I would really suggest reading book one; Trouble in Hell, before diving into this book as this is a series and not standalones. When JW stops a speeder on the outskirts of town, he immediately realizes that something just isn't right. After finding out that she is running from someone that beat her, he doesn't hesitate in bringing her into his small town and proclaiming that he is going to keep her safe and further investigation finds that the guy that is chasing Eden, is just another monster and that is something that JW and his brothers are used to dealing with. Eden ran after the man she was dating beat her, but that's after she saw what kind of man he really was. Now she is in this tiny town, where people are putting themselves at risk to keep her safe. When the danger becomes a reality and stuff starts getting messy, will Eden stay and trust in JW and his family or will she take her chances and run?

I'm just going to say that these books are not for the faint of heart, and if you have any type of trigger warning you should just walk away now. I have no clue how the author was able to write about something so freaking depraved and make it such a good read. Alex Grayson has a gift in story telling and this was amazing. This book has some really hot naughty bits, drama, danger, gore and suspense. I give this 5 stars and am so excited that Judge is next.
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews359 followers
April 16, 2019
description
Disturbingly good read…

If Trouble in Hell made me uncomfortable, I’m not sure how exactly to describe my feelings for Bitter Sweet Hell. Of course, I will try… The story was good, really good. JW, along with his brothers, protected their own and when Eden came to Malus it took him no time to claim her. That meant he stood beside her, and in front of her, as she hid from danger that he was determined to destroy.

JW was the law and he gave no quarter. Even in love, he was tough, ensuring Eden was not going to run from the feelings they shared. Their chemistry was hot and only dampened by the danger that plagued her and now the people JW cared for. JW was all things alpha and showed it in every step he took. Was that attractive? Oh my yes….

There were many twists and turns to this story, some I loved and others I didn’t. It all came together in a story that I couldn’t look away from even if I blinked. A lot.

This story, this series, is not for the faint of heart but promises a dark, dark treat…
Profile Image for Ashley Carr, LSoR.
4,778 reviews62 followers
January 13, 2019
I didn’t read the first book in this series and I’m going to remedy that now but you didn’t need to read that book to understand this one. The things that is done to the kids in town is truly heartbreaking. Now that they are grown up and took over the town it’s a much better place. JW and his 3 other “brothers” are not bound by blood they are bound by the hell they survived in this sinister town. He is now the Sheriff of Malus and he pulls over a speeder just outside of town. He doesn’t expect Eden and the things she stirs within him but she is running scared. The beautiful little red-head has trouble written all over her. JW convinces her to lay low in Malus for a few days until the danger she is in blows over.

Eden is determined to run from the horrors she has witnessed and that’s just what she does but she gets pulled over by the sexy Sheriff that insists she stay in his town. She knows it’s a bad idea but she doesn’t have a plan so she lets herself be waylaid for a while. Unfortunately trouble follows her to Malus leaving chaos in its wake and lives on the line. Will this little town that has experienced so much pain and tragedy already be able to withstand Eden’s trouble? I can’t wait for this rest of this series! I highly recommend this book!!
Profile Image for Melissa Schaub.
1,584 reviews
January 11, 2019
Gah this book...this series is hauntingly beautiful and JW’s book is a perfect example of it. I absolutely love the way this author is able to take an awful, disturbing world and turn it into a safe, close knit community that protect their own and remove the disease from the world!
In this book though we lost some great characters and I am anxiously awaiting the fallout that will surely come in the next book.

JW is the sheriff of Malus and is doling out punishments to those that deserve it. He likes the quiet town that him and his brothers have transformed. So when he pulls over a woman speeding through town, he expected it to be some random passer through. He never expected her to change his entire world.

Eden is on the run from an extremely dangerous man who thinks she has something of his. She is trying to put as much distance between them as possible, so when a sheriff pulls her over and discovers the bruises already on her body and is determined to save her, she is unsure of how to feel.

Now they must fight together while trying to understand the sparks between them in order to keep the town safe.
Profile Image for Lourdes.
972 reviews12 followers
January 11, 2019
What should have been a routine traffic stop in the outskirts of Malus turns out into JW bringing a running battered woman to stay in town while a mad man is on hot on her trail.
Eden Delmont is scared and doesn’t have a place to hide so she accepts to stay in Malus, but when it’s evident the threat has followed her into town, things will get more complicated and JW and his brothers will have to step in and do what they do best.
This installment of the series takes a deeper look into the town, the families and the doings that lead to what it is now. JW’s story is dark and ugly and his family a truly sick one, but meeting Eden will bring light into his dark life.
Bitter Sweet hell is another great story by the author, one you don’t want to put down until you get to the very end, filled with great twists and a really surprising story line.

5 stars
*Received an ARC for which I voluntarily provided an honest review *
Profile Image for Danielle Harris.
797 reviews
January 12, 2019
Love this series so freaking much!

I'm so in love with this series! I can't get enough of it. I love how dark it is. I did have to skip a couple pages, because I'm a wimp when it comes to animals.

Jw can arrest me anytime! He definitely had me swooning, and made my kindle 🔥 Eden runs into trouble with her ex and had to bolt and ended up at Malus. Jw is doing everything he can to protect her.

I can't freaking wait for book 3 I need Judge in my life!
Profile Image for Melissa J (Book Addicts Reviews).
1,142 reviews93 followers
January 2, 2019
5 dark as sin stars! This book was seriously fucked up on quite a few levels but I don’t think it would have been as effective if it wasn’t.

This is book two in the “Hell Night” series. I do not recommend this book as a stand alone. Trust me you need book one. It does not have a cliffhanger and it does spotlight a specific couple, but you need the back story.

First of all, you need to know going into this story that it has so many triggers they are like land mines. I cringed quite a bit. But if you can handle dark and deranged then this is it. My heart is invested into this entire town. The story is so elaborate and perfectly written that I know these crazy SOB’s like they were my own people.

This book is JW & Eden’s. Eden is new to series and her story fits right the fuck in. Now Eden is in Malus and she has brought the devil on her tail. But little did he know Malus don’t play that shit.

JW is the sexy sheriff that I was so curious about from book one. He was a lady killer but shit is about to change. JW is exactly who I thought.. caring, possessive, sexy, loving, funny and did I mention super hot?!?!!! One thing we know from book one is my guy here and his equally bad ass brothers don’t play with POS’s who think they can harm women and children.

I also want to mention that Judge and Emo are like driving me crazy. I can not wait for their story!!! Who else is with me?!?

This book is crazy good. And yes parts were upsetting but I feel like if you didn’t read that part of their story then you wouldn’t feel the connection. Like I’m hard up for these people. I love them all. My heart aches for them. Let me tell you this author puts some twists in there that no way in hell did you see coming. And I love that there is no compassion for the scum of the earth. We always find that little bit of compassion or empathy for the bad guy and think maybe his parents treated him bad but no these are not your normal bad guys these are the worst of the worst. I am just very grateful for this author making that clear.

Many women/men reading this book have been through something similar, and though it is extremely hard to read some of these scenes, The Brothers make you feel safe and comforted. This is how I wished the world worked today.

This book pulled a lot from me and it has been awhile since I was involved. I needed certain outcomes and gladly they came. And the even better thing was it was not predictable at all. This book had me guessing every single minute and every single page. Just a damn good book!!

**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
Profile Image for Reading to Escape.
1,075 reviews
December 22, 2018
This series is so dark and twisted, but so so unbelievably good. I simply cannot get enough of these characters.

Bitter Sweet Hell is the second book in the series and is about JW, the Sheriff in Malus. The book goes back and forth between the hell that was his past, and the present, where he finds himself continuing on in his pursuit of justice for himself, his brothers and now also Eden.

Eden is running from her own version of hell and finds herself in Malus, and lucky for her, JW has taken a liking to her. This book also shares more about Trouble and Remi, Judge and Emo as well. I cannot wait for Judge's story, which will be the third book.

Alex Grayson has a knack for writing these dark and twisted tales with amazing characters. A highly engaging read that I could not put down!!!
December 23, 2018
The dark and twisted depravity is ramped up several notches in Part 2 of the Hell Night series; it’s also very blood thirsty. I feel that I shouldn’t like it as much as I did but this is the type of book I hunt down. Dark, suspenseful, gory that leaves you sucker punched at the end!

I wasn’t sure if I would like JWs character after reading Trouble In Hell! He came across as an arrogant and cocky bastard but here we see the other side of him. The caring and vulnerable side. The side that is still dealing with events endured as a child. The need for vengeance is paramount but he is also levelled headed enough to ensure the right time and place to execute that vengeance.

This author writes such intriguing and deep characters that have you routing for them to find their HEA!
Profile Image for Jaime Reynolds.
1,876 reviews22 followers
December 23, 2018
Emotional, gut wrenching and one bittersweet ride. What a fantastic and well written story. JW and his brothers continue to protect Malus and those from current and prior unfortunate tortures. What he did not anticipate is Eden and what subsequently follows. Alex takes you on a journey that has you gasping for breath while at the same time wanting more of the story. Once you begin you simply cannot put it down. The twists and turns have you on the edge of your seat. If you love a gut wrenching and addictive journey this series is for you. You definitely will not be disappointed and will be left wanting more. Well done!!!
Profile Image for KDRBCK.
6,776 reviews58 followers
January 6, 2019
Welcome back to Malus, TX. Bitter Sweet Hell by Alex Grayson is book two in her Hell Night series. Every book in this series is about another couple and can be read as a standalone. For better understanding I recommend to read the books in order. The previous book is Trouble in Hell and tells Trouble and Remi's story.

Bitter Sweet Hell is JW and Eden's heartwrenching story. JW is one of the four men who rule in Malus. He's the towns Sheriff and enforcer. Together with Emo, Judge and Trouble he's the ultimate law in Malus. All the men are through hell and back.

Eden Delmont is a young woman on the run from a madman. When she gets pulled over by Malus's Sheriff their fate is about to change. Both have a insta connection and their chemistry is through the roof high, but there are twists and turns that threaten their HEA.
Take a rough, gruff law enforcer; a heroine in big trouble, a powerful mad enemy, a dark story full of unexpected twists, danger, drama and more danger mixed with excellent writing and you get a 5 star read, the second book in a great series. A raw and gritty read who deals with sensitive subjects and is not for the faint of heart. I promise Bitter Sweet Hell 'll stay with you. I read the book a few days ago and can't get it out of my head. I recommend the book and the series and can't wait to get my hands on the next book; Judge of Hell.
Profile Image for Elaine.
730 reviews6 followers
December 26, 2018
Alex Greyson gives you a hell of a story that is dark and twisted to the very end!
JW is the sheriff of Malus a town that was rebuilt by him and his brother's from the depths of hell to what it is today until a little fiery redhead walks into his life!
Profile Image for Sheila'S Book Corner.
1,048 reviews79 followers
January 10, 2019
If you are looking for something that is dark, raw, gritty and hits every emotion, this is the book you are looking for. This is the second book in the Bitter Sweet Hell series and let me say this book was just as amazing as the first one.
In this book, we get JW and Eden. Eden like Remi, has stumbled into Malus and into the man who will end up protecting her in more ways then she could ever imagine. Eden is the complete opposite of JW, he refers to her as gypsy which is the perfect description of her. JW is the sheriff of Malus who does everything in his power to protect his town especially from the bitter past of it.
There were so many twists that I did not seem coming and I could not put this book down.
I loved the fact that we got to see more into the lives of the other 3 "brothers". It was great to touch base on Trouble and Remi, but we got to see more into the soul of Emo and I can only imagine what we will get with judge. 5 stars for this amazing story and I cannot wait to see what happens for Judge and Emo!
Profile Image for Deborah.
2,734 reviews22 followers
December 21, 2018
Jaw dropping, page turning and a complete HEA!

I literally couldn’t put this book down. Alex writes so beautifully and she made it so easy to fall in love with the town and it’s community. There’s good and bad in this world and it’s not always pretty, but leave it to Alex to get the job done. I can 100% guarantee that you will love this book just as hard as I do.

Outstanding!
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