The World Doesn’t Give Without Taking …Decades have passed since our world was decimated by the Dredge. Some say it was an act of God. Others believe the devil himself breached the gates of hell and turned the masses into the mindless infected with an appetite for carnage.Those of us who’ve survived the Calico experiments know the only thing more terrifying than the monsters that seek to ravage … the monsters that seek to ravage what’s left of us, are the men who created them. Ones too capable of hiding their true form, and burying their darkest secrets.
Somewhere beneath the facility lies the answers, a cure for our suffering. To reach it, we’ll have to open the haunting tomb, where man’s deadliest mistakes, the most violent mutations, lie trapped within its tunnels, waiting to be set free.
Our only hope in surviving them are the very Alphas who were designed to hunt us down. The titans forged by cruelty and pain.
Kings of carrion.
We taught them to love, and in turn, they vow to protect us. To deliver the cure for humanity’s sake. Except this world doesn’t give without taking, and any chance of saving us will require the greatest sacrifice of all.
Complete Trilogy Now Available:
- Juniper Unraveling (Book 1)
- Calico Descending (Book 2)
- Kings of Carrion (Book 3)
more
Kings of Carrion has utterly wrecked me! I’m still tingling all over thinking about this book! This is in no way your average dystopian read. You’d better get ready to bear down and brace yourself for the battles, the angst, the fear and destruction, but also for the love and loyalty of this cobbled together family. So many times their backs are up against the wall, where there is no magical exit, no easy fix, and things are indeed as bleak as they seem. My heart hurt so badly. I desperately wanted Cali and Valdys to find each other again, but everything comes with a painful price. This has been one huge breathless story of survival at its best! It’s ugly, but it’s also sheer beauty. I loved this so damn hard!
Kings of Carrion picks up after the doors of Calico have been sealed trapping the evils done inside and unfortunately Valdys. Cali, Titus and Cadmus have been searching for the Rebels for help. I have to say when they finally found Wren and Six I was thrilled, they still remain my favorite couple of this series. The first part of this book was supposed to be calm and full of hope but I’m very familiar with this author so I knew it was only a matter of time before it all feel apart. The second half had me on the edge of my seat. Gong back into Calico was a suicide mission but Cali was determined to find her Valdys. So much goes on in this book, there are moments of hope and then despair. If there is one character that stood out to me the most it was Cadmus. The horrors that were done to him and then the female who would never be fully his but in the end what would have been a good man shined through. I loved the two Epilogues and I loved that a piece of Cadmus will always remain. I hope someday we get a story about Titus.
***ARC Provided by Author***
I seriously can’t even…this book, this entire series is something no book lover should pass up.
From the very beginning of Book 1, (Juniper Unraveling) this world is captivating and full of emotion.
Tears and heartbreak, this journey is beautifully tragic, but still full of perseverance, hope and love. I finished Kings of Carrion days ago and still weep when I look at the cover. Book hangover doesn’t even come close to describing the imprint of this story on my heart and soul. These characters will suffer and bleed and you will right along with them.
If you had asked me a year ago if I liked dystopian stories, I would have said no. But this series, it isn’t just a dystopian story, it’s a dark and gritty look into survival, wrapped around the brilliant light of love as it shines through all the cracks and crevices of despair. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re anything like me and you crave more to your story than just the romance I encourage you to take this journey. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
I wish I were a better word smith, this review can’t even begin to express all the feelings I’ve experienced at the hands of this amazingly bold and brave author, and this thought-provoking journey she’s taken us on.
I implore you, please don’t let the word ‘dystopian’ deter you. I won’t lie, there are times it’s hard to read, but those are the times not to look away, I promise you, this story will leave an unforgettable impression.
This story starts with Calico being sealed off with the inhabitants inside the walls. Cali, Valdys, Titus and Cadmus are searching for the rebels to help reopen Calico and the horrors it contains to save them all. They also run into Wren and Six so we get their points of view which makes the story more interesting. Will they be able to save themselves and what will need to be sacrificed? A gory, horror filled romance with all the feels. You won’t forget this book and series.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving a review.
A five-plus-star rating simply doesn’t feel like it’s enough for a tale as exceptional as this. Yes, I know; I usually wait till the end of my reviews to mention how I’ve rated a book, but then there’s nothing usual about Kings of Carrion, so why should I do what’s usual for my review for it? The bar had been set astronomically high by the first two novels, Juniper Unraveling and Calico Descending, and while I knew what Keri Lake was capable of, I’ve borne witness to even the best authors not always hitting the mark. But then, Lake has yet to disappoint (knock on wood!), and with this series in particular, it feels like she not only pushed herself outside of her usual writing confines but she’s prodded her readers and fans to step out of their reading comfort zone and dive heart first into this new world she’s created. Just remember: This series MUST be read in order because of a continuing story line.
My heart broke while reading this third novel, and it had already formed cracks thanks to the second one. This was not an easy read, but God, what a rewarding one it turned out to be. While Cali and Valdys were, indeed, the main characters, this wasn’t “merely” their story to tell. There were outstanding peripheral characters and maybe, possibly, absolutely a couple of familiar characters making their presence more than felt. I’ve cried over more than my fair share of books in my four and a half decades on earth, but this was the first time I shed countless tears while reading a dystopian romance. Kings of Carrion is a cut above the rest in ANY romance sub-genre. I’m not giving this a starred rating; instead, I’m giving it a crowd of stars. It is simply that awe-inspiring. Do yourself a favor and read the Juniper Unraveling series as soon as you possibly can. I promise, you will not regret doing so.
I’m in shock with these stories and with Keri Lake. She has taken me to a whole other world in these books. I’m more of a romance and mystery girl but I have to say I will be reading more of Keri books. What I love about this book is she puts both Wren and Cali together. You also have Cadmus and Titus and the other Hive from Wren and Valdys story.
Kings of Carrion picks up with the doors sealed and Valdys trapped inside. Cali, Camdus and Titus starts out with them looking for the Rebels group so they can find Kenny. Who was the computer guy at Cailco. I was so glad when they finally find them and got Kenny to say that he would help. Also I was happy that Wren and Six are in this story because they are my favorite couple of this series.
This book is what it seems. Keri gives you a warning at the beginning of the book and it best you read it. This book has its up and downs. One minute your calm and enjoying the love and fight between to the couples and the next you’re on the edge of you seat and can’t read fast enough to make sure the couples will survive.
This is so hard to review because there is so much that goes on in this story and I don’t want to spoil it for anyone. So this is how I will put it. I’m so happy with the ending but I also cried at the ending. You want them all to come back and enjoy life and start a new beginning in their new world. If only that is the way this stories works. Like I said you are on the edge of your seat in the middle and end. So much goes on in this book; there are moments of hope and then despair. If there is one character that stood out to me the most it was Cadmus. I loved this his character and how he was there for Cali and only wanted her to love him back and help find Valdys and be happy. I loved that Keri put two epilogues at the end. I can’t wait to keep reading this series. I was giving this book for my honest review. ***ARC Provided by Author***
Kings Of Carrion is a fucked up yet compelling read. It’s brutal, gory and oh so good. I had a hard time putting it down. Even though it had me nervous, scared and anxious to the point where I was tempted to read through the spaces between my fingers I loved it. It’s a tale of epic proportions that I can’t recommend enough. I know this story and characters will stay with me for some time.
Copy provided by author
AHHHH Keri Lake and her stories are always so gripping, raw, edgy and most of all addicting. I am OBSESSED with the Jupiter Unraveling world and could not stop reading Calico Descending until that shocking cliffhanger. But now in Kings Of Carrion, as Cali looks to find Valdys, she is set upon a course with the other Alphas that will forever change her life!
Ahhh! I dieeeeee for this author’s words. They are always so compelling that you can’t help but picture the stories in your mind and the harrowing trials and tribulations her characters go through. I absolutely loved Cali and her determination to rescue Valdys. And Valdys – Sigh. He has my heart. He was fierce and aggressive with a heart and soul that beat for Cali. I loved this story so so much! It was so heartbreaking, pulse-pounding and incredible! 5 stars! ~Ratula
Kings of Carrion was a gripping, nail biting, heart-wrenching page-turner that had me hooked and at the edge of my seat throughout the story. The world building in this series has been excellent, but this author took it to the next level with this novel, the scenes were so descriptive you could easily see it in your mind’s eye and you felt like you were watching a movie. This novel will evoke a range of emotions from you. It was dark, captivating, emotionally nerve wracking and at times totally devastating but it will remain with you long after you’ve finished reading.
The characters will amaze you with their strength and determination and you will be rooting for them as the story progresses. This is a story about survival and sacrifice, about love and the lengths one will go to for those they love. With non-stop action, steamy scenes and and twist and turns around every corner, this novel was without a doubt one of my top read for 2019. I would highly recommend it novel to all lovers of dark dystopian/ post apocalyptic romance.
I love it when an author is bold enough to color outside the lines. Because it’s in those wide open spaces, beyond the confining black lines, that the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Enter Keri Lake and Kings of Carrion.
Kings of Carrion is a devastating, beautiful, and emotional experience that quite literally broke me. Weeks later, I’m still in recovery. I feel a weight on my heart and tears in my eyes whenever I think of it. That’s not to say that it didn’t end beautifully, it did, or that I would have changed a word, I wouldn’t. Keri wrote this story exactly as, I believe, it was meant to be. Had to be. She stayed true to the world, the characters and the story, even when it may have been easier not too, delivering an epic story that will be permanently etched into my heart.
The Juniper world isn’t a fluffy one full of hearts and flowers. It’s harsh and at times, exceedingly cruel. But it demonstrates that through all things, love is possible and the heart can survive. So I suppose, mine will too…eventually.
I highly recommend the entire Juniper Unraveling Series for anyone up for original stories full of heart stopping action, emotion, and passion that ultimately demonstrates the power of love and humanity.
Loved this book. It brings the characters from the first two books all together. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll be hoping there’s more in this series.
“We are broken pieces, stitched together by the pain of our losses. I don’t know if we’ll ever be fixed again. The only thing that’s certain is the uncertainty that awaits us. ” – Cyrus
“Air gives us breath. Food gives us strength. And love gives us hope. In a world of monsters, love makes us human. ” – Cali (never stopped believing)
“Someone has to be the bad guy ” Cadamus
I need a moment to compose my thoughts. Bring my heart-rate down. Release the tension.
I don’t want to leave – I’m not ready to say goodbye.
The series as a whole has been one of the most emotionally trying and all-consuming reads I have had the pleasure of coming across.
Whether you normally read the post-apocalyptic genre or not doesn’t really apply here with the Juniper series. It wasn’t about surviving zombies or traversing miles of empty buildings and barren land. Don’t misunderstand the above is present just not the story.
This was more.
So much more.
It was about two couples – Their families – Both blood and chosen. It was about the darkness that lives in all of us.
It was about loss, greed, hope – It was about living and dying -Hate and love.
It was everything and still not enough.
If you take a chance on one author one series let this be the one.
Will be back to review- wasn’t kidding about being emotional (I came back this is the updated version)
5 STARS
Wow.
WOW.
W O W.
”They didn’t have to put those scars on my body. They were already inside my head.”
Keri Lake, what have you done to me, my mind, my heart, my freakin soul?! I knew this would be amazing but I didn’t know that it would be this fucking exceptional, this heartbreaking, this astonishing. I didn’t know that this book would tear my heart out and place something far more fulfilled in its place.
I’m putting sad gifs in my review simply because I am shredded right now. This book, this whole series, is just so mind-blowing. I will tuck these stories, these characters deep inside me and never let them go. And the best thing about this whole reading experience is that even when this book breaks my heart one minute, in the very next it’s kissing my cheek and slapping me in the face with an avalanche of hope, of love.
”It seems to come down to the same thing every time. The world is designed to take, not give.”
This book – this whole series – is about the importance of love. It’s about showing us that even in the darkest, most fucked-up world, love is the only thing that perishes. It’s the only thing that gives us and our lives a meaning. Love is the essence of life and that without it we are reduced to nothing more than monsters.
”There is no life without you by my side.”
This book broke my heart. It did. I’m not going to lie about that. But you know what? I never, for one second doubted that I would end this book hopeless or defeated. Because from the beginning, Keri wrote this story in a way that made it clear for me that in the end, light always banishes the darkness. And now, having finished this book, this amazing story, I have no doubt that it’s true.
“Open your eyes,” I whisper. “I’m right here.”
**I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
So this is the third book in this series and my god what an emotional journey this turned out to be.
This continues the story after that shocking finale with the whole of calico being locked down and Valdys being trapped inside an impenetrable prison trapped within with all those dangerous mutations and Ragers.
Cali who is not prepared to give up on her lover and Alpha scours the deadlands with Alphas Cadmus and Titus and Former Legion Brandon searching for the Skulls, The Rebels she believes can assist her in opening the gates of Hell itself.
This was not just Cali and Valdys story but also a continuation of Wren and Six’s from book one as here the two timelines collide in a dramatic fashion and all roads lead back to where this all began the nightmare that is Calico.
Raw dark and gritty right from the onset this certainly didn’t pull any punches.
Kings of Carrion is a stark post-apocalyptic dystopian drama and I literally had my heart in my mouth throughout this tense and heart-stopping tale.
Cali here showcases her blind loyalty and steadfast determination prepared to do whatever in the liberation of her mate.
While Cadmus also comes into his own here and I just adored how protective he was of Cali in the absence of Valdys.
This one also had me bawling my eyes out I was an emotional wreck and it’s not often a book reduces me to these levels, I was a bloody mess.
But beneath the tragedy was also a flickering hope for the future and despite the sadness and tears, I shed that epilogue managed to lift my spirits making me smile even with the grief.
I was so glad that we arrived where we did and that Happiness was achieved but also bittersweet at what we lost along the way.
This was an epic masterpiece that I enjoyed immensely.
It’s dark and gritty and an emotional rollercoaster but one I am ever so glad I caught a ride on.
Highly recommend this series it is fantastic.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Kings of Carrion (Juniper Unraveling, #3).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
http://www.beckiebookworm.com
Received ARC from Author for Honest Review
I Give this Book a 4/5 Star Rating
Cover: 1000/5!!, It’s Divine!!
HEA(?): Yes, but man did I bawl my eyes out anyways Lol.
No Spoilers.
Just Keep Kleenex Handy is all I’m sayin.
I Can’t Give an In-depth review for this because it will just give way too much away no matter what lol.
But I thought this book would go one way and it went another route that still made me a satisfied reader, but I wish it went a bit different.
Rather Vague Huh? Lol
This is a great book and filled in many blanks, the books MUST be read in order.
Dark(?): A Bit, Yes. (To Me:) 3-3.5/5
Heat: 3.5/5
Romance: 3.5/5
Suspense: 4/5
Drama: 4/5
Omegaverse(?): I would say this is a slim variation of one, yes. 🙂
It looks like there will be a Book 4, set in this universe! I’m looking forward to reading that!! 😀
After reading Calico Descending I didn’t think Ms. Lake could top it.
But she absolutely did that with Kings of Carrion.
Holy Smokes what a world she created!
This author took me into a world of cruelty and evilness.
Where some hold all of the power while the vast majority fight for their lives.
The scenes and the atmosphere are described with vivid details and precision it felt like I was watching a movie instead of reading a book.
The characters Ms. Lake brings to life stole a piece of my heart.
This book was an emotional read for me.
Parts of it just devastated me.
Other parts brought I smile to my face.
I loved how the power of love and friendship shines throughout the book.
I was in tears with parts of this gripping intense story.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE the main characters of the book.
They are the definition of loyalty,friendship and true love.
Hats off to you Ms. Lake for delivering such a phenomenal story!
Kings of Carrion is the conclusion to the Juniper Unraveling series. First of all, I am so happy that the author decided to include Wren and Six’ POVs (main characters from book#1 Juniper Unraveling). So we have Cali and Valdys’ POV and Wren and Six’ as well. Everything came together in this book. It wasn’t easy to read because I already knew my heart would get destroyed. This book is about survival and sacrifice. This book was dark and brutal, and it hit me even harder because of the bond I created with certain characters. I knew to expect the unexpected and Keri Lake definitely delivered. I loved the twists and turns in the story, and the growth in the characters.
“In a world of monsters, love makes us human.”
I think this book was the perfect ending to this series. Would I want more books set in this world? YES! I love the world Keri has created. It is very intricate and super intriguing. I hate saying goodbye to the characters but I don’t want them to go through even more. This was such an emotional roller coaster, and I was constantly on the edge of my seat. It was so suspenseful and heartbreaking, but also very beautiful and uplifting. Kings of Carrion is one of my favorite books of the year, and I look forward to seeing what the author has in store next. If you love dark, twisted and brutal post-apocalyptic/dystopian romance, then look no further because this series is in my opinion one of the best.
Give me competent writing, a tortured hero, and vividly creative world-building, and I’m your fangirl for life. Before this series, I was already a fan of Keri Lake. But these books–these dark, grisly, spine-tingly, romantic, sexy as hell books–not only gave me all the elements I love in literature, they also solidified my admiration and respect for KL’s diabolical skill.
What a story she wove. It’s smart and unpredictable, thought-provoking and tear-inducing, and at the heart of the savagery lives the kind of crushingly powerful love that every romance reader craves.
The plot plays out like an action movie in the mind–the scents, the visuals, the feels… Oh God, you will feel everything. Truly, a magical experience.
Thank you, Keri Lake, for putting your blood, spit, and sweat into this series. You are a rare and brilliant talent.
I recommend everyone read these books.
Afraid of monsters, you say?
Don’t be a pussy. There are monsters in this dark gritty world you will not want to escape.
Start with Book 1: Juniper Unraveling.