Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Dark Protégés #2

Arson's Captive

Rate this book
Once upon a time she became mine.
Mine to keep.


She was a healer.
He was a serial killer.

She helped people.
He destroyed them.

She was a beautiful angel.
He was a vicious monster.

She wanted to run away.
He captured her instead.

She promised to never surrender.
He guaranteed that she would.

Two lives, the hunter and the prey, forever entwined together. In this battle of wills there would be no winner.

Published January 24, 2020

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

V.F. Mason

33 books2,055 followers
Visit me on Facebook: http://bit.ly/2e1wFpE
Reader group: http://bit.ly/2iXZd0l
Website: vfmason.com
Instagram: authorvfmason
Twitter: @Author_VFMason

V.F.Mason always loved reading books and had quite a few fights with her mama over the genre she liked (romance, duh!) She studied filmmaking and thought that would feed her desire for stories, but that didn't happen.
Finally, when she was tired of all those voices in her head, she sat down and wrote a book. It was a huge decision to make and she thanks her friends and family for supporting her in it.
When she is not writing, she can be found with her friends doing all sorts of crazy things or reading recent romance books that were written by her favorite authors.



Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
311 (49%)
4 stars
202 (32%)
3 stars
83 (13%)
2 stars
22 (3%)
1 star
13 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
Profile Image for Bex (Beckie Bookworm).
2,154 reviews1,434 followers
January 24, 2020
thumbnail_Arson_Teaser7(1)

This is one I have been really looking forward to for quite a while, from the very first encounter I have been fascinated with Arson and just how he ticks and the small teasers we have been given from previous books in this series have only whetted my appetite more.
Impression wise Arson for me is definitely one of the worst serial killers we have been introduced too to-date.
He had an almost cold, empty blankness to him not really surprising considering his background and what we later learn he has had to endure growing up.
It is actually surprising he has any conscience or sense of morality considering his horrific past.

I know Arson is not a good man and never will be, yet he is the bad man who protects me from the likes of Marcello, Pastor and their friends.

This was almost a beauty and the beast scenario, but one where there is no actual redemption or saving more a rescue through Callista's acceptance of the whole, in turn, giving Arson something he has unknowingly craved all his life, someone who is categorically just his heart and soul and acknowledges the good and bad equally, she manages to quiet the noise and soothes his inner beast somewhat.

She is the light in my darkness, the only thing brightening up my world with her smile alone. She is the gasoline to my fire, the angel to my demon reigning inside me and the calm during my life that is nothing but an endless storm.

As this story progresses we get to witness a much warmer Arson start to emerge: well at least in regards to his beautiful captive to all else he is still a cold merciless killer.
So if Callista's story was painful and sad Arsons was much worse and my heart literally broke in two with what child Arson/Artem has had to endure.
Action wise this was definitely more of a slow-burn but when these two finally do connect it was heated and the chemistry output off the charts, definitely worth the wait.
This is one of my favourites to date of this series and I absolutely adored every twisted and dark moment I really didn't want it to end.
Also, can I just say that epilogue was pure magic I adored it and it was the icing for me, seriously is was fantastic.
I bloody devoured this one reading in one sitting and highly recommend this fascinating series especially if you like something a tad different.
This author just manages to deliver every single time and I highly recommend this series.
Warning before I go this story has some series triggers in regards to the childhoods of both Calista and Arson (mostly Arson) which we get to experience in a series of flashbacks which is the usual style for this author), If you have read this author before you will know what I mean and what to expect.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Arson's Captive

thumbnail_Arson_Teaser5(1)



Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews4 followers
July 20, 2021
This is a dark, gritty, electrifying read filled with high-stakes action, well-developed characters and a fully fleshed out plot. Holy Hotness! Callista and Arson's chemistry was on fire🔥...
Overall rating: 4.5 stars!

She is the light in my darkness, the only thing brightening up my world with her smile alone. She is the gasoline to my fire, the angel to my demon reigning inside me and the calm during my life that is nothing but an endless storm.
Profile Image for Julia.
623 reviews599 followers
March 1, 2020
This book did not make any sense at all. THe main characters thoughts are so full of contradictions it makes my head hurt. And then the random time jumps and appearing in places where you thought they were running away from? Just super confusing and had no flow what so ever. Main issue is the hero.
1 minute he wants to protect the h then the next he wants to use her as bait. Then he keeps her captive for 3 months and burns a guy alive in front of her but gets mad of the thought of people in her past that treated her badly.

Like.... pick a direction of how you want this guy to think??? Just piss poor story telling all around.


Also the description of the hero is that his hair is ‘blue like a hot flame’.... because his name is Arson.... and he likes setting things on fire.....

Give me a freaking break. 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,837 reviews1,429 followers
January 27, 2020
I have been a huge fan of V.F. Mason's serial killer series. Her stories are always engaging, addicting and full of heat. I absolutely love antiheroes and her stories have them and then some. I have been OBSESSED with Arson for the longest time. I could not wait to read this enigmatic killer and see the woman who brought him to his knees. I loved him and Callista. It was a storyline that was so different and compelling. 

This story was so so fantastic! I love passion between them and the mystery of their past connection. I will say that this author's stories are very flashback-heavy so if you don't mind them, are addicted today and dangerous men and scorching passion between your hero and heroine that'll singe your fingers on your kindle, read this today! 4 stars! ~Ratula 
Profile Image for BG.
502 reviews128 followers
March 1, 2020

A beautifully written tale of two broken people who fall in love while embracing each other's flaws.
It is an extremely dark book with graphic scenes but those scenes relay the past of Arson and what he suffered and how he became like this. They are exceedingly hard to read and made me bawl my eyes out.
Arson is a person who has many scars and burdens which have made him a completely twisted character but when he meets Callista by chance. She invokes powerful emotions in him which he thought were dead. I loved seeing their chemistry and passion burn and sizzle.

I also love that the author didn't make Arson a full blown bad guy and that even he had morals and knew when to draw the line.

“True madness is born in complete darkness.
Darkness is born in the pain.
Pain is born in the cruelty.
Madness, darkness, pain… they have the power to drive a person insane.
But only if he or she lacks one thing.
Love.
Love that withstands the most difficult times… even death.”


Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
1,958 reviews147 followers
January 20, 2020
Arson's captive a very good story!
Callista/Chloe is a young lady at the start of this book, whose life is difficult to say the least. Her mom decides to take them somewhere safe, away from her abusive husband. And they end up in "heaven".
Arson/Artem has not had a great life either. It was quite horrible in most peoples standards and he was finally helped to channel his anger in a better way.
This story developed slowly and painstakingly, sometimes a little too slow, but the second half of the book picked up immensely and took me for a very bumpy, crazy ride.
Profile Image for Ruth♡.
228 reviews26 followers
April 2, 2023
Esperare tanto por leer este libro, y la verdad me gustó mucho.
Una de las cosas que me encantó es que se menciona a casi todos los personajes de este mundo y salen muchos, amamos eso 🥹
Profile Image for Sheena ☆ Book Sheenanigans .
1,440 reviews429 followers
January 19, 2020

“Arson’s Captive” has all the typical elements V.F Mason is known for: dark and twisted romance with lethal serial killers.

The story starts off with the lead heroine ‘Chloe’, who is making an attempt to escape a cult before running into the savage beast whose eyes only burn for her, and before you know it, a whirlwind tale ensues with many twists, turns, and of course, instant swoon worthy romance. And as much as it pains me to say, I wasn’t a big fan of this read. The killjoy: Chloe. I didn’t like her. Hell, there wasn’t much to like about her and to be honest, whenever her scenes popped up, I cringed and skimmed some parts. She didn’t stand out like the previous heroines in the past installments did that I loved so much and I had found her more annoying than anything.

Nevertheless, still a very enjoyable read that could’ve been better if they just killed off the lead heroine (but maybe that's just me). Now my fingers are crossed that we get Jimena (give me the diversity girl!) story next because she seemed badass and I need to know what’s going on with her and possible Four Dark Horsemen member.
Profile Image for Julie.
2,004 reviews31 followers
January 20, 2020
At last Arson’s story and we have an addictive dark romance with all his sick, twisted action. The story from start to finish just captured me. It’s told in back and forth flashbacks between Arson and Callista explaining their lives, it was especially interesting to learn more about Arson and why he became the person he is.
A terrific read, and extremely dark. I enjoyed it immensely!
July 28, 2020
I recently read my first book from this author and I loved it a lot, so I couldn't wait to read more from her! I checked out her other books and this one sounded intriguing, so I grabbed a copy and made it my next read! After reading this book, I can say that I really enjoyed it! The plot did take me a few chapters to get into, but I then found myself reading a few more chapters every chance I had and then I didn't want to put it down until I had finished it! The plot developed at the perfect pace and I loved what happened in it and how everything progressed! There was some action and suspense in the plot, which I was expecting, and these elements added a lot to the plot and made me enjoy it more! There was plenty of romance in the plot as well and I loved the way it developed! The romance allowed for a few seriously hot scenes as well and they were really, really hot! The characters were also amazing and made this book even better! Callista was the main female character, and I felt so sorry for her in this book because she went from being held in captivity in one place to being held in captivity in another place! Callista was taken from a horrible place though where she suffered a lot and I really liked Callista in this book! She was a strong character and came a long way! I loved that she stood up for herself as well! Arson was the main male character and love interest of Callista! Arson was a dangerous guy in this book and he was a serial killer that didn't have any remorse or cared about what he did! Callista changed things for Arson, but he still killed people and Callista respected that because she knew that Arson needed to do it! I also felt for Arson when his backstory was revealed because it made my heart go out to him and explained a lot! I loved that this book was written from both Callista and Arson's point of views! The synopsis kind of gives you the impression that it's going to be, so I'm really happy that it was! It made this book even better and it helped me connect more with both characters and understand how they were feeling and dealing with everything happening! It allowed for more things to happen in the plot as well, which helped as the plot did have flashbacks to Callista and Arson's childhoods and showed what they went through and then they went through a few situations separately! I can also completely understand why this book is a standalone! The plot was wrapped up and all the questions raised were answered! The ending was also left at the perfect place for the characters and I adored the epilogue! I now can't wait to check out more of this author's other books! I've only read two of them now, so I can't wait to read more of them out and give them a read! The cover for this book is also seriously hot! I loved it as soon as I saw it and it definitely drew me to the book and made me check it out! The cover model is seriously hot as well, but isn't quite how Arson's hair and things is described!
Profile Image for Anna Theurer (Anna's Bookshelf).
728 reviews54 followers
January 23, 2020
4.5 / 5 stars This book is dark. It is twisted. It is gritty. It is also a remarkable, heart stopping read. If you have read this author’s other works, then you are well aware that she has this amazing ability to make you fall for her serial killer characters. If this is your first book by this author, be prepared to walk on the shocking dark side in this standalone romance.

Told from a dual POV, we discover Arson’s past and just how fire became his favorite weapon of torture. Arson is intimidating, deranged, and cruel and he makes no apologies for it. Surprisingly, as I had been really looking forward to his book, I had trouble warming up to him in the beginning as he so unfeeling, but as the story progressed, he grew on me. I knew that whoever stole his heart had to be amazing.

“I am your greatest nightmare. And you are the captive I’ve decided to keep.”

Vengeance is his end game, but he is thrown for a loop when he meets Callista. I liked her immediately off the bat. Being held captive by Arson, she becomes this serial killer’s obsession and possession.

“Your mind, your body, and your soul will be possessed by the devil who craves nothing but your surrender and passion.”

Callista is a survivor who has found herself thrown into impossible situations not of her making. She is resilient and a fighter which is what endeared me to her. I love a strong heroine.

Arson is perhaps this author’s darkest anti-hero yet and at times, I wasn’t sure how the author was going to develop a romance between him and Callista. I wasn’t sure if the guy was capable of love nor was I positive that Callista could truly and honestly fall for her hard-hearted captor.

“She is the light in my darkness, the only thing brightening up my world with her smile alone. She is the gasoline to my fire, the angel to my demon.”

True to this author’s other works, there is a heavy dose of violence and tragic backstories for these characters. Arson’s and Callista’s pasts are revealed through flashbacks interspersed throughout the book and will make your heart hurt for all that they have each endured. The descriptions are graphic in some places so be aware.

Arson’s Captive is sure to keep you on your toes with all of the action, surprising twists, and intricate storyline. The secondary characters, especially the four horsemen, are rather featured prominently in the book which I loved as I now can’t wait to learn more about each of them. If you like your romances on the dark and twisted side with complex characters, a unique plot, and some scorching hot scenes, then you will enjoy Arson’s Captive.

I read an early complimentary version of this book.
Profile Image for Joyffree.
3,154 reviews56 followers
January 23, 2020
"What a beautiful lie. We don't try to protect those we love. We try to protect ourselves from the inevitable pain"

Oh, Arson you blind fool.
Arson is doing what he does best, causing chaos. When what suddenly appears? An angel, and Arson, well, being Arson isn't about to turn his back on such a beautiful gift.

"Once upon a time, an angel fell to hell where a devil found her"
Callista has lived her own version of hell on earth. Even when she was ensconced within "heavens" gates she was not safe from the evils of man. She learned over time how to keep the darkness at bay. Careful to pick her battles.
A bit immature,
A tad stubborn
But filled with all kinds of fire.

Arson's character has always seemed just a touch out of reach. Out of all the protege, IMO, his darkness was different. Not that they all arent a bit on the scary as he ll side. Arson lacked any form of empathy it seemed and he was angrier. I knew his story would be special and Mason did not disappoint.

This was a whole new side to Arson and I liked it. Yeah in previous episodes we were given brief glimpses of the man inside the monster but here - we see the real boy, the one who was betrayed.

Most of the gang and all of the horsemen make cameos in this episode. (*squeals with happiness)
You may want to strap in tight for this ride - because the turn?
Sooooo did not see that one coming.

I do still have a couple of questions that were not answered (* clears throat)

Another fiery addition to the series that you will not want to miss
Profile Image for Wikki Stephens.
15 reviews2 followers
January 24, 2020
Holy hell, how do I start this review? V.F. Mason is truly a talented writer! The way she weaves the story, writing, and twists make this wanna-be writer envious!

I received this book as an ARC and I’m so happy I did. I could NOT stop reading. What is air, water, and food?! This was probably my second favorite book of her dark romance series, my favorite being Lachlan’s Protege. Arson has been a favorite character since that book and I’ve waited patiently for his book and I was rewarded well! Arson is a complicated character with a tragic past and the discovery of it made me cry. I loved Callista and the fact that she didn’t immediately run from Arson. I found her refreshing and honest. She was willing to love the monster WE love for the right reasons (which let’s be honest, I’d sharpen knives for these dark heroes, too!). The Epilogue honestly made me smile and giggle with warm fuzzies.

Well done!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,012 reviews438 followers
January 24, 2020
Arson's Captive by V.F. Mason is totally amazing!! It is complex, dark, raw, heart stopping, heartbreaking, emotional, intense, twisted, totally exciting and full of feels. Arson and Callista aka Chloe have a story that will take you through a deeply complicated rollercoaster ride. Their lives weren't sunshine and roses. They both had pretty horrible young lives. He became a serial killer while she became a healer. Theirs is a gritty, gripping love story. Full of action packed, dark, twists and turns romance that is fascinating and fabulous. There are appearances from previous characters. The story does go from present to past POV. I liked that... it enhances the storytelling. Great read and can't wait for next book in this series.


My Rating: 4. 5 stars ********
Profile Image for Trish.
202 reviews4 followers
July 10, 2021
Woo! This book is on FIRE (see what I did there? Ahahahaa). I have to say, this is my first serial killer book and, well, I loved it! I wasnt expecting to read the graphic rape scene when the H was younger, I had to skip over it. Other than that, i loved this book. I'll definitely have to read more by this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
383 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2020
This book was everything I wanted and needed it to be and more!!!!! I have loved Arson ever since he made an appearance in Lachlan’s book. I was so scared of disappointment 😂 The waiting was totally worth it. I also loved Callista. She was exactly what Arson’s heart needed to heal. She was strong enough to deal with his crazy, while also soft enough to heal it. I loved them together so much!!
Profile Image for Rhonda Ziglar.
3,901 reviews39 followers
January 31, 2020
5 SIZZLING ARSON STARS!! I want to be Arson's captive....I fell in love with this character. Arson and Chloe story is dark and hits on tough subjects, but so worth the read. My heart was pulled in every direction, with lots of twists and turns through this book. V.F. Mason has quickly become one of my favorite authors with her phenomenal writing skills...Give me more. If you love dark....download this book.
Profile Image for Lu  Vargas.
553 reviews85 followers
January 2, 2023
Uno de mis libros favoritos de V.F Mason

La serie de Dark Protégés siempre será una de mis favoritas. Arson es un personaje con un background bien pesado y desolador que hace que se te estruje el cora. Realmente, es uno de mis personajes favoritos por cómo va evolucionando en todo el libro. Y la relación que tiene con Callista es 1000/1000.
Profile Image for Lisbeth .
2,428 reviews
December 22, 2023
Realmente disfruté este libro, incluso con un elemento retorcido e inquietante pero fascinante en la historia. Está hábilmente escrito y atraerá a los lectores que les encanta el suspenso romántico que involucra a asesinos en serie. Hay mucho en lo que profundizar y la complejidad de la trama más la atención a los detalles en la construcción de la misma hicieron de esta una buena lectura para mí.
Profile Image for Yoneidis.
1,891 reviews7 followers
January 25, 2020
“Serial killers. We are dangerous creatures lurking in the night, seeking flesh and pain from those who have the misfortune of meeting us. And among them all, I’m the worst kind, because I don’t have a conscience or a set pattern. I’m just driven by the constant desire to kill.”

Arson’s book finally arrives. We have been able to read a little about this character through the other books in this series and we already knew about his fascination with 🔥, but we didn’t know why, until now.
The book mixes the present with the POV of Arson’s past and Calista’s past.

Arson rescues Calista from a sect called “heaven” and holds her captive in a cell for 3 months, bc he thinks she can be a key piece in a revenge he has been waiting for decades.
“She’ll burn in the fire of my creation as the anger within her grows and grows, because I’m too fascinated watching her orbs fill with fury to stop bringing her pain. An angel the devil found in the dark and decided to keep.”
“Your mind, your body, and your soul will be possessed by the devil who craves nothing but your surrender and passion.”

Calista accepts a deal with Arson and he takes to his 🏡, and when Arson protects her from someone from her past, she ends up giving herself to him.
“You promised to never surrender, and I promised to enjoy every second of it when you did.”
“If someone asks a devil what heaven looks like… he will tell them that heaven is everywhere as long as his angel is with him.”

Arson’s past is a nightmare, suffering abuse since childhood, almost killed in a 🔥, captured and abused again (this time along with Callum and Santiago Cortez, one of the 4 Dark Horsemen) until he escapes and he is found later by Laclan who becomes his mentor.
“If you can’t beat the enemy, survive. Survive until you can beat it.” Lucian Cortez must have been one wise man. Because his advice rang in my ears every single day we spent in hell. Only to discover there is no limit to the cruelty in this world.”
“When a hunter wants to catch his prey, what does he need to do?”“A hunter has to have his focus on the prey all the time in order to trap it. If the hunter worries about someone else, the prey will slip away. There is no hunt without concentration and preparation.”
“A serial killer uses skills and technique to bring maximum pain, yet every move is always calculated. We know what drives us, what inspires us, and what feeds the craving inside us. We are not murderers; the high is not in the killing, but in the method and the emotions it brings. Use your anger to kill those who deserve it; don’t waste your life on the anger that has no purpose except to get you caught. Your past was a nightmare; make the most of your future.”

I really ❤️this book. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Profile Image for Thais S.
239 reviews2 followers
April 3, 2021
4,5

ARTEM E CALLISTA

Em Arson captive temos a história de Arson, um dos homens por assim dizer de Lachlan que tem sua historia contada em Lachlan's Protégé que por sinal é muito boa. A primeira aparição de Arson acontece mais para o final desse livro, onde ele  e outros caras ajudam Lachlan em um plano para encontrar sua mulher Valencia no chamado "céu", e lá Arson se depara com Callista, uma garota que o atraí por sua beleza e áurea de anjo. Neste momento ele a captura e a leva consigo, e o que acontece a seguir é apenas revelado neste livro.

Callista que se apresenta ao seu captor como sendo Chloe é mantida em cativeiro na casa de Lachlan, mas sob a supervisão de Arson na sua sala de tortura por 3 meses, e no fim desses 3 meses ele revela a ela uma pequena parte do motivo dela estar ali,  e quando ela aceita fazer parte disso para se manter viva, ele a leva para a sua própria casa. Ali ambos começam a desenvolver sentimentos um pelo outro. Calista chega até mesmo a pensar que ela pode ter desenvolvido a chamada síndrome de Estocolmo pois nada pode explicar essa atração que ela sente por Arson, que nada mais é que um serial killer que está em busca de vingança, e para essa vingança dar certo ele precisa usar Callista como seu chamariz.

Bom, gostei pra caramba de toda a historia trazida pela autora apesar do começo do livro ter sido um pouco confuso para mim, mas depois que as coisas começam a fazer mais sentido tudo melhora. Teve poucas coisas que não me agradaram no decorrer da leitura, um deles foi esse começo confuso e o outro foi o fato da autora não ter explicado a ligação de Mark com o prostibulo e consequentemente com o Caspin, para mim não ficou claro a forma como o pastor chegou a eles.

Mas uma coisa que eu gostei muito foram os personagens secundários principalmente os quatro cavaleiros das trevas, eles me deixaram curiosa para conhecer suas historias, principalmente o Florian, mas infelizmente não temos nada sobre ele ainda, mas sobre Santiago nós temos, e já estou curiosa para saber mais sobre ele. A autora tbm escreveu um livro sobre o Callum, que "apesar de não ser amigo de Arson" sempre esta presente ali para ajuda-lo.
Profile Image for Renee.
4,188 reviews55 followers
January 23, 2020
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

Once upon a time she became mine. Mine to keep. She was a healer. He was a serial killer. She helped people. He destroyed them. She was a beautiful angel. He was a vicious monster. She wanted to run away. He captured her instead. She promised to never surrender. He guaranteed that she would. Two lives, the hunter and the prey, forever entwined together. In this battle of wills there would be no winner.

ARSON'S BOOK!!!! Oh my gosh we got Arson's book. If you have read any of these other books about the serial killers you have met Arson and he was always such a mystery to me and I am so excited that I got to read his story. This story is dark and probably contains a lot of triggers because a lot of terrible things happen to a lot of people in this book. I was on the edge of my seat, and my heart broke as many times as I was one the edge of my seat. Neither Arson or Callista has a easy story to tell but I so am telling you that his story will tear at your very soul. He was a child without a mother and left with his Aunt. She was the child of an abusive father and when her mother decided to run she ran straight to "heaven" which was anything but. Then her mom marries the leader and things might look better until their not. I don't want to give away to much about either of their stories but this book is in duel points of view and told in the present and past tense. Vengeance is the name of the game for Arson in this book and he has found the perfect angel to do it with. Never mind that he has to use her as bait. It doesn't matter until it really really does. I loved this book. I swear you will not want to put it down. If you have read V.F. Mason, you know how good she is at dark and gritty books. If you have never read on of her books, you can start here and I promise you will want to go back and read all her books. Arson just might be my favorite of the serial killers. Now there is a statement I never thought I would make.
Profile Image for Meghana Sarathy.
Author 10 books199 followers
January 28, 2020
I have always been a huge fan of VF Mason's books and I especially looked forward to reading Arson's story after reading Lachlan's prey. I ahd always found arson intriguing, especially his whole obsession with fire that seemed to gel so well with his personality. And I was super excited when I finally got the ARC of this book. And I must say - It definitely didn't disappoint.
It was everything I thought it would be and though it was definitely satisfactory in that sense, it also made it 'predictable' and along the lines of her other books depicting the same gang. It was definitely intriguing and dark- just the way I loved it, but it was also missing that 'X' factor that made it unique- same pattern but still 'different'.
I was impressed with the backstories - especially the whole 'divine community'. Arson's stunts were definitely intense and intriguing but it was the whole 'pastor' past and the way things ran in that community that was truly 'dark'. Just thinking about it scared me, and having to believe that such communities do exist that brainwash people and so such shit in name of god is unbearable. But the way it has been portrayed in this book through the eyes of Callista is beautifully disturbing. I'm truly in awe of the author for coming up with such realistic and tragic backstories, and thsi one definitely steals the cake. And each and every such backstories introduces us to a new 'female lead' who emerges stronger despite the pain and torture, making for a perfect girl for our 'serial killers' and Callista is no exception. And Arson's chemistry with her and his attraction towards her is also palpable and definitely HOT - Very similar to the embers that Arson so dearly loves and plays with.
Arson was definitely the prime highlight of the book and not so surprisingly, despite his dark nature and torturous ways, I absolutely enjoyed reading about him. It was fun from start to finish.
Overall I would rate it 4 fiery stars.
Profile Image for Lisa Marie ~ Words We Love By.
998 reviews64 followers
January 23, 2020
I started my journey through V.F. Mason's serial killers with Madman, have since gone through all of them (that are written, anyway) and I was really looking forward to Arson's story.  He has been a compelling character to me and I was dying to find out who is "victim" would be and how his downfall into love would play out.  With Arson's Captive, I have my answers and I was not disappointed one bit.

Arson (Artem for those who have read the stories prior to this one) is as diabolical and complicated as he appears in other books.  His childhood nightmare shaping him into a more than dubious hero.  His twisted sense of justice (like his brethren) allows him to wreak chaos and havoc on those he feels deserves it.   Callista, the ballerina that catches Arson's attention, is just as complex.  As a child, she and her mother escaped from an abusive home and landed at "heaven", a place misnamed as it covers for the dark and nefarious abuse of children that runs parallel to Arson's childhood world.   These characters are the perfect foil for each other. Damaged, tormented survivors who have faced the abyss and know the depths of evil.

The story itself is raw, violent, and dark.  Told from alternating POVs (Arson and Callista) and building the past tragedies via flashback scenes, Arson's Captive is a gripping story that will be hard to put down.  Woven throughout is an unconventional love story with a healthy dose of heat,  side characters that have been shown before get some page time building onto what (hopefully) will be their stories, and an action-packed battle of wits ending that had me holding my breath.

Not for the faint of heart, as Mason's psycho's do like their torture methods, but a thrill ride for those who like their romance with a hard edge.
Profile Image for Karen.
1,233 reviews8 followers
January 25, 2020
Some monsters are born, and some are made. Not all monsters are bad though.

Another awesome book by V F Mason that had me wanting so much more. I loved the pace, characters, and story of this book.

Arson is a man who keeps to himself and has a small circle of people in his life. He doesn’t consider them friends or family, but people he knows he can count on if needed. He has very few attachments in his life until he finds a fallen angel that he wants to keep captive and possibly use to his advantage.

Chloe “Callista” lives in “heaven”, but in actuality, it’s hell. She has no freedom to live her life on her terms, she is forced to live by someone else’s rules and any detours from those rules and she is punished. Her escape from her living hell may not be a blessing.

I loved everything about this book. I’ve read a few of the books in Ms. Mason’s Dark Romance series and they are dark, but awesome. The story drew me in and held me captive throughout. Callista is Arson’s light in his dark world. She draws him out in a way that no one else could. While she lived a sheltered life for many years, she is no stranger to darkness. She may think Arson is a monster, but she has no idea of the people who live their lives appearing to be good but are darker than Arson or any of his group.

I give this story a 5-flaming star review. If you like dark, suspenseful, dangerous, deadly men, then you should read Arson’s Captive as well as other books in the Dark Romance series. These men will leave you wanting more all the time. I highly recommend reading V F Mason’s books, she does dark very well.
Profile Image for Melissa J (Book Addicts Reviews).
1,076 reviews90 followers
January 29, 2020
5 flaming hot stars!!

This is a stand alone book from V. F. Mason’s serial killer series but if you are wise you’re hold read them all!! I am super obsessed with all the serial killers!!

Arson has been on my mind since I started this serial killer journey. He always piqued my interest. Now I know why. He is such a tough nut to crack but under it all is exactly what I thought. I am in love!! I read a few reviews and people didn’t seem to care for Chloe but, trust and believe, I am a fan of Chloe!! The pain and hardship these two together faced they are extraordinary!! And together scorching!!

I am really late with my review, a lot happened but what I loved about that was I was able to read multiple chapters a day. In doing that the story sank in and weighed on my mind more. It seemed to enhance the story that much more. Either way this was an amazing book.

Every time I read one of her serial killer books I get pumped. There is so much wrapped up in each of these books. Back stories, current stories, sexy time, love, hate and so much more. I could see this as a Netflix series we love to binge. Please make this happen!!

I do want to add that I don’t think this cover portrays are Arson though, sadly but hey he doesn’t hurt the eyes.

You get stories and characters from other books and it is so exciting. I am invested in all of these guys. Keep writing these kick ass books!! This is a MUST read!!

**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
Profile Image for Camii.
429 reviews2 followers
August 17, 2023
𝙀𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙚𝙨 𝙡𝙖 𝙡𝙪𝙯 𝙚𝙣 𝙢𝙞 𝙤𝙨𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙖𝙙, 𝙡𝙤 𝙪́𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙤 𝙦𝙪𝙚 𝙞𝙡𝙪𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙖 𝙢𝙞 𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙤 𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙣 𝙨𝙪 𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙖. 𝙀𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙚𝙨 𝙡𝙖 𝙜𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙖 𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙞 𝙛𝙪𝙚𝙜𝙤, 𝙚𝙡 𝙖́𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙡 𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙞 𝙙𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙤 𝙦𝙪𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙖 𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤 𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙞́, 𝙮 𝙡𝙖 𝙘𝙖𝙡𝙢𝙖 𝙙𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙞 𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙖 𝙦𝙪𝙚 𝙣𝙤 𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙖́𝙨 𝙦𝙪𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙖 𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖 𝙨𝙞𝙣 𝙛𝙞𝙣.


Estoy bajo el hechizo de VF Mason, leer sus libros son una adicción imparable cada vez que leo una historia aparece un personaje secundario y se que se convertirá en mi siguiente lectura y la autora no decepciona para nada.

Este libro fue un locura, el era un fuego en todos los sentidos, peligroso, hipnotizante, caliente, caótico. Y ella dulce, inocente pero con un gran temperamento y nunca dejo que el la intimidara con su personalidad tan oscura e impotente.

Las protagonistas de los libros me encantan y en este caso ame a 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚 siempre lucho por su libertad y no dejo que la oscuridad le impida querer perseguir sus sueños y la esperanza que tenía le sirvió para no bajar los brazos. (Lloré mucho al ver la emoción que sentía al descubrir cosas que son básicas en el mundo 😭).


𝐀𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 tenía muchas ganas de leerlo y ame su personaje hasta ahora es mi favorito, su locura de el es algo que retorcidamente te atre y se siente placentero leer manera de "limpiar el mundo" de bastardos.
YO LO AMO ♥️

La vida de ambos fue difícil desde niños y Arson dice que no conoce lo que es el amor pero sus acciones demuestra lo mucho que el ama a Calli aunque no lo sepa. Me gusta que al principio quería mostrar indiferencia ante ella pero en el fondo se preocupaba por ella 🥺❤️‍🩹. AME EL LIBRO Y LA TRAMA TODO.
Profile Image for Hanan (Bookstagramer).
1,649 reviews16 followers
January 21, 2020
I have been intrigued by the blue haired man and his love of fire.
So I was thrilled to finally get Arson’s story.
And what a story it is!
Arson is a dark uncompromising man.
He has no mercy for his enemies.
He has a line you better not cross.
If you do well look out you are definitely on his radar.
Arson’s form of doling out justice is neither swift nor painless.
It is however thorough,precise and done with calmness.
Callista is definitely one strong young lady.
She is a fighter.
With a determined will and mind.
Callista’s life hasn’t been easy.
But when she crosses paths with Arson her life is about to become that much more twisted.
Ms. Mason writes stories with antiheroes like no one else.
And Arson is no exception.
Along the way she’ll have you falling in love with this devil of a man.
You will be praying for him and hoping the best for him.
But that’s not before cursing and wanting to strangle him.
This book had me enthralled and gripped from the start.
Once I started Arson’s story I could not put it down.
Yeah no sleep for me that day.
I love how the author blends in the dark but never fully closes the door for some light.
How she gives a very flawed very dangerous Arson some characteristics and some kind of magic that the reader can’t help but embrace him.
He stole a piece of my heart and part of my soul.
Arson’s journey is hard fought and painful.
Even though this is his full story I still hope to see more of him in the future.



Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.