I'm basing my rating on the overall series, not the 1st book specifically, because Buttons and Lace is *extremely* dark, graphic, and hard to read (major TWs for rape). But I was curious enough to finish the series to bring Pearl and Crow's story to a conclusion, and the third book was certainly my favorite of the bunch. DEFINITELY not for everyone, but if dark (and I do mean DARK) romance is your thing, this was a crazy ride with a lot of spice.