Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Red Knight #1

Knight Takes Pawn

Rate this book
AMAZON BESTSELLER

Natalie aka Red:
My world is messed up which means my life is as well. Stollen from my sovereign, I get caught up in Jagger's twisted game of power and control and thrusted into his sex trade. Unlike all women who are taken, I refused to comply and kill the first slimy dacker they lock me in a room with. I'd rather die than let a sleazy male put his hands on me.

When an opportunity presents itself, I must decide if I'll continue to be a pawn or play Jagger at his own game while finding a way to free myself. Will Jagger kill me or will I take the option that no female has ever been given?

Knight:
I'm sent, like everyone else from the One's sovereign, to spy on Jagger. It isn't an easy job despite all my training and how tight Jagger likes to run things. Something happens and I'm brought into his circle, a bunch of males who would kill just for a higher rank because that's all that matters is this dacked up world.

I'm willing to do whatever it takes to bring Jagger down and free my people he as kidnapped until I meet Red. There's something about this woman that gets under my skin in every way. Is she just another thorn in my side to complete my job or is she the piece in this puzzle to changing our world for the better?


WARNING: This series contains sensitive material. Reader discretion is advised.

246 pages, Paperback

First published March 21, 2017

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Martha Sweeney

33 books588 followers
Find access to all of my books on my website: www.marthasweeney.com

Martha Sweeney is an Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books BESTSELLING author who writes in a variety of genres: romance (contemporary, romcom, suspense, paranormal and historical), suspense, fantasy, thriller, coloring books, and soon, science fiction. She strives to push herself as a storyteller with each new tale and hopes to push her readers outside of their comfort zone whether it be genre or the stories themselves.

With a B.S. in Psychology, Martha utilizes her knowledge of human and animal behavior successfully in the business world and in her writing to present realistic characters and situations. She's been creative since she was little, always drawing, coloring or making crafts, so her venture into being an author was a natural transition.

B&N Bestseller: Snowed In With Him
Amazon & Apple Bestseller: Breathe In (Just Breathe #1)
Amazon Bestseller: Knight Takes Pawn (Red Knight #1)

website: www.marthasweeney.com
facebook: facebook.com/authormarthasweeney
Verve Romance: ververomance.com/app/MarthaSweeney
Pinterest: pinterest.com/MSweeneyAuthor
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/marthatswee...

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
34 (56%)
4 stars
17 (28%)
3 stars
5 (8%)
2 stars
2 (3%)
1 star
2 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Mandy Saial.
1,154 reviews
July 27, 2017
I have been waiting to crack open another Martha Sweeney book , because her stories are always Original , Empowering and her characters are Fierce and never give up when the odds are stacked against them.....Knight Takes Pawn was no different .
I went in with a notion on what things would be like and came out after the finale page knowing a whole new galaxy .

She takes us on a journey to a far away planet Jaru, Where Jagger is in Rule.
The pollution and starvation is not the only cruel treatment of his subjects , especially Woman he casts into sex slavery and the ones who slight him, meet the end of Reds blade .
Causing his subjects to plant spies and turn on each other from the inside out .... the Slums to the Elite ....No one is safe .
I loved the characters ,even the Evil ones . They were all strong forces within the story, Especially Natalie , she has gone to hell and back , but she's not gonna let anyone take from her anymore and get away with it. I'm glad she finally found her Knight, but I'm not to sure she can fully trust anyone .
OH MY Lordy Lord , I know the Red Knight Series has just begun , but you are not going to want to miss out on that ending ....DAMN !!!
Profile Image for Kay (❦ ᴗ ❦ ✿) BooksandMe.
470 reviews7 followers
March 27, 2017

Rating:



Sometimes I surprise myself at some spur of the moment. I realized I may have bitten off more than I could chew, but I'm always up for a challenge anyway.

This book, Knight Takes Pawn, made me think long and hard. I think I trying to place the story, but really, I couldn't. The setting is in some planet, and the economy is in depression. The economy is in a severe depression that supply is scarce with demand on high but the resources are just recovering or on the level of just producing enough because facilities were either destroyed or if it survived, it sustained heavy losses and requires maintenance more often in which production is suffering because of the increased downtime. That's how I see it, anyway.

Lol. I know! I think I wanted to discern the state of economy, probably be given more facts about it. Other some changes that are mentioned before diving into the book, there's nothing really weird or anything that stands out for me to feel like I'm in another dimension. Probably the same on how society looks on women in general: weak, dumb and as a sex object.

Natalie, aka Red, was abducted and had become a a sex slave. But on the first night on which she would be used, she did something so different and extraordinary in my perspective that caught Jagger's attention, the tyrant that is ruling the Sovereign different from where she came from.

And then Knight became part of Jagger's inner group and that's where everything started to happen differently, like maybe a shift on what is going to be in the future.

I admit, I didn't like the start of the story. The pacing was just too fast for my liking and I couldn't peg Red's character. I also hate the change of some words because I mean it would be okay if sentences that are exchange are spoken in a language rather than just snippets of words to remind me that the setting is set in a different planet. So I decided to curse on a different language just I could take the edge off. Packing tape. Inamo ya! Yu di putik kag. Yeah, ahd to let that out.

Anyway, Knight did have piqued my interest. He's mysterious and dangerous and there's a secret hidden in every words that leaves his lips. Although he's kind of a fucking pussy, daw putayan kag, because I really did want for him to make through with his words.

I almost gave up. But things have turned differently. I enjoy Jagger's crazy and him being unpredictable. I get snippets of how that world works and what challenges Knight and some of the crew did or was facing.

I would have just rated this book 3 stars but it ended up with me smiling. And feeling that rush that happens when I am being satisfied. Red did totally something unexpected and because of that, she's good in my book.

This book feels like I was playing chess. There's a whole bigger picture than what is happening and what you're reading. I have to think of strategies and when the pawn is moved, it was either to be sacrificed or become someone stronger given the power. This is my first of Martha Sweeney and definitely wouldn't be the last. I admire the intellegence that is put in this book that left me satisfied and wanting for more.



Check out my blog here:

Profile Image for L.A. Cataldo.
Author 2 books112 followers
February 10, 2017
WOW, Again Martha does not disappoint. This book is on the Darker side of things and I love it! Romance, Gore, etc... You have it all right here.

Definitely, recommend reading!
Profile Image for Nicole Strycharz.
Author 28 books406 followers
March 21, 2017
Well...

I now know if the name Sweeney is on a book....

I just need to buy it.

This was literally EVERYTHING.

Thriller
Suspense
Romance
Erotica

It had
Violence
Nudity
Language

Basically it was everything. It was art! A whole new world, with all new rules and it sucks you right into the mayhem!

The characters are bold and edgy! Each person has a face. I could actually see and hear every single soul in this story.

The main character is intriguing! She's bright, sassy, intelligent, and strong. I adored her from page one. Her mind is always working and that's a gift in her situation.

I have too many favorites in this book and warning : YOU WILL HAVE A FONDNESS FOR THE MAIN VILLAIN. Don't fight it!

Martha Sweeney once again delivered and it's well worth the time to sit and fall into a plot that will curl your toes!

I'm dying for book two and I'm a hardcore fan of RED!!!
Profile Image for Cat Imb || The Reading Cat ||.
418 reviews40 followers
February 17, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Martha Sweeney!

I want to start off by saying that I'm a huge psychological thriller / romance fan, and that I have a soft spot for sex slavery books. I liked this book, but there are some things that didn't work for me.

Firstly, the fact that it's on another planet, for me, wasn't a necessary feature of the book. The "aliens" are in fact humans that speak mostly english. It would have made more sense if it was on a futuristic dystopian Earth running out of resources. I hadn't even realized it was a different planet until it was mentioned.

Secondly, the characters of Knight and Red, although I love them, they have a few snags. For example, Knight always threatens Red that he will rape her if she doesn't do as he says. That really bothered me because one, that's terrible, and two, he's supposed to be the good guy and he acts as if its completely in his right to say that. I get that he is trying to protect her, but he could have easily said that if she doesn't behave they will get separated and she will end up with someone like Breaker. Same effect, less offensive. Now with Red, she is a seasoned killer by the time Knight arrives, yet she acts like a complete child; throwing stuff, stomping her feet, not listening, etc. I expected some more finesse from the composed killer.

Lastly, I am confused about the ending. I won't spoil it, but un my opinion, that was the wrong move and completely inefficient in making her point - it may have even worsened the situation. If she had done what she had intended to do in the first place after what she did, I would have been pleased with the ending.

Regardless of the points I brought up above, the book was enticing and captivating (the middle section dragged on a little - could've been more concise), and I look forward to reading the sequel. The author has a great way with words, and am looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next!
Profile Image for Jo.
10 reviews
February 11, 2017
Wow. I've just turned the last page and have to say that Martha Sweeney has delivered again. I have read all of her books and they just get better and better. This is a darker read then her previous books and drew me in from the first 2 pages. Red is a formidable force of a woman that won't take any crap and I can't wait to see how the story continues with what is in store for her and Knight. Absolutely loved the ending - was grinning from ear to ear. Not sure what that says about me, you'll have to read it yourself to come to your own conclusions.
Profile Image for Martha Sweeney.
Author 33 books588 followers
February 10, 2017
I had a blast starting this series! It's very different from my other currently published books and I thoroughly enjoyed pushing myself with a different genre and writing style. I know that it won't be for everyone, but those of you who enjoy thrillers, I hope you enjoy the start of Knight Takes Pawn.
Profile Image for Darlene Avery.
958 reviews4 followers
March 24, 2017
Knight Takes Pawn: A Red Knight Novel by Martha Sweeney is a read that will take you out of this world!

Sweeney explores life in another galaxy and the way women are treated as just pieces to be used and tossed away.

However, Natalie aka Red proves that women are stronger than any man gives them credit for. And maybe just maybe there are men, like Ryan Knight, willing to put all his faith in these women who show they have the inner and outer strength to show what they're made of.

Knight Takes Pawn isn't always pretty, but it shows you that we all have the power to fight for our own selves and to never give up.

4.5 Out of this world stars!!!
Profile Image for Latisha Johnston.
172 reviews27 followers
April 17, 2017
This book was definitely different from what I normally read, but wow!!! What a ride!!!! This book has it all!!!! This book is definitely a MUST READ!!! You have done it again Martha Sweeney and I LOVED IT!!!!👽👽
Profile Image for Seized_.
185 reviews6 followers
February 16, 2017
Holy Sh*t is there anything Martha Sweeney can't dacking write???

Knight Takes Pawn is another example of Martha's ability. This story is dark and suspenseful with a twist of romance. The story takes place on planet Jaru, a desolate planet which is struggling for survival. We meet Red a fierce woman who is kidnapped and sold into the sex slave industry, when Red proves that she can not be broken or taken advantage of she gains the attention of leader Jagger. Jagger enjoys that Red is ruthless and has no problem being a killer and uses it to his advantage. It is not long before Red meets Knight and not by her choice. When a group of men in Jagger's inner circle decide to see just how ruthless Red is they throw Knight into Reds path, hoping she will eliminate him. What follows is a series of events that change the lives of all involved.
Martha draws you in from the first sentence and keeps you biting your nails and on the edge of your seat through the entire book. You immediately root for RED and want her to kick so much ass, her strength and resilience is astounding given the situations she is put in and she survives.
One of the greatest qualities in any of Sweeney's books is her ability to write such strong female characters. No matter what they face they overcome and are stronger and more amazing in the end. I can not wait to read the rest of this amazing series and anything else that follows. Another brilliant book by Mrs. Sweeney !!!!
Profile Image for Rachael Organ.
64 reviews1 follower
February 15, 2017
I have read all of Martha Sweeney's books and have truly enjoyed them all and just when u think another book surely can't get any better Martha not only pulls it out of the bag but takes it to a whole other level!! Yet again another original storyline which is on a darker topic than her other books but follows suit that its main character is a strong willed feisty woman who is using the horrendous situation she has found herself in and making it work the best for her! I was gripped from the start and as the story went on I found myself gasping one minute and holding my breathe the next with wide eyes anticipating what was to come next! My only criticism is the relationship between Red and Ryan took to long to get to the saucy stuff! Just when i thought it was gonna happen it built me up then backed off! Gggrrrrrr. Ha which I guess is another way in which Martha keeps your attention and u guessing. I loved also all the other characters in the book and I can't wait to see how the story develops because I gotta feeling this was only the start to yet another 5 star series
Profile Image for Thomas.
Author 9 books102 followers
March 9, 2017
Martha Sweeney's imagination and talent seem to know no bounds! Knight Takes Pawn is her most recent creation and engages the reader immediately. This story is the best of so many worlds; science fiction, thriller, romance, and action suspense. The reader is thrust into the violent existence of the Jaruian race and all moral and ethical fundamental beliefs are brought into question due to the struggle for survival in a dying race and planet. Right and wrong become blended together until the reader is forced to question their own decisions given the same circumstances. This is just one of many examples of Martha's story-telling prowess and complexity. The action is non-stop, the sexual tension is blistering, and the multiple character agendas keep you constantly guessing. Knight Takes Pawn is by far Martha's strongest attempt to date...and all her books are excellent! Do yourself a favor and dive into the Red Knight Series right this second!
Profile Image for Betty G..
150 reviews11 followers
January 31, 2022
**UPDATE Jan 2022**
Just finished rereading it and was more excited than the first time. Thank God book #2 was FINALLY released!!

~♡~♡~

WHAT?!
I mean... WHAT THE DACK?!

Martha Sweeney, let me tell you this... YOU. ARE. SO. MEAN!
How can I wait for book #2 after reading this one?
I really enjoyed it and need more. Can't wait to know what happens next.


*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.*
Profile Image for Danielle Urban.
Author 12 books157 followers
March 21, 2017
Knight Takes Pawn by Martha Sweeney is her 5th novel. I have read everything published by this talented woman. Unlike her previous fictional worlds, Knight Takes Pawn heads in a new genre direction. This one is a psychological thriller. All previous books were contemporary romance. I can honestly say, that Martha Sweeney has a knack for writing the best reads. Whether they are short or full-length novels. Instantly, I was intrigued wondering how this writer was going to do with her new direction. But I was amazed once again. She totally blew me out of this world and deeeply into her new one. Thrilling, engaging, and dark. Knight Takes Pawn is a must read for all.

Inside this latest book, Knight Takes Pawn, Martha Sweeney take us, readers to a new place. Themes like slavery, cruelty, and trust are incorporated throughout the piece. Trust is greatly lacking due to the spies. Martha Sweeney has created a world that no one can trust someone else. If trust is placed in the wrong person...everything is lost. Gone forever. Death hangs in the air. The suspense of what is to come on every page will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Absolutely, a compelling yet frightening read. One woman is tired of what happens to her and fights back. I love the daring, and boldness of the characters. Evil versus good. I was addicted from beginning to end. Overall, I highly recommend Knight Takes Pawn to readers worldwide.
Profile Image for Diana's (Books And Coffee Cups).
247 reviews12 followers
March 22, 2017
Well no surprise here....this book was just up my alley. It had suspense, thriller, and DARK!! see my kind of book. It took me by surprise that it was happening in a total different planet but once I found the rhythm and vibe of the book I was completely in. I hate that it took me soo long to finish it, but the other flip of the coin i was able to enjoy every bit of the feisty characters and story. Well Mrs Martha I have learned not to question the wait for another book to come out from you, because as you prove it time and time again your stories and characters are completely enjoyable, and amazingly delicious to read....yes I said delicious!!.
Definetly a 5+ Stars!!!
Profile Image for Tamara Harrington.
524 reviews28 followers
March 1, 2017
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. This book is nothing shy of a masterpiece! Once again Martha has written a book that is so original and all about empowering woman. I was so excited to finally start reading this baby that I could not put it down, sleep be damned! Martha always comes up with the most unique stories that keep you wanting more and she has not disappointed. The characters are unique and intriguing and in true Sweeney fashion, we have heroine that we all love and want to be because she is so kickass. There is violence and nudity and sex and mystery, there is absolutely nothing that I did not get from this book. I cannot wait for the next in this series and will be singing Martha's praises from the rooftop until then.
Profile Image for Alice.
124 reviews11 followers
February 20, 2017
Holy guacamole Batman!! I did NOT know what to expect with this book and I enjoyed every chapter of it!! It's a thriller, a dark romance, a science fiction, and an otherworldly dystopia all wrapped into one. Usually, I watch the movies for stories like this but I'm so glad to have read this! This NEEDS to be a movie!!

Red is fierce in so many ways...even when she's not sure of herself and her situation. She pushes boundaries--for herself and those around her. She's your NOT perfect heroine and Knight is your NOT perfect hero and it all works. No one is perfect, but Jagger...he's the perfect VILLIAN!

This story is RAW, UNIQUE, DISTURBING, UNAPOLOGETIC, and MINDBLOWING! It's not for everyone, but I'm sure many will like it!

I NEED book 2 NOW!!!
Profile Image for Heather.
26 reviews4 followers
March 21, 2017
Review To Come .... But Wow ❤

Update : First this Book is not my usual kind of read , So Thank You Mrs Sweeney for broadening my reading world i usually stay away from dark and messy But this book captivated me from the start Her writing style and depth to each character kept me engaged even in parts where normally I would start to cringe and maybe not finish the book
I loved the Story I loved the Strong character base I Loved how I felt through the entire book .... I have fallen in love with the dark side !!! Brilliant Story and Writing I recommend everyone grab this now
Profile Image for Erin.
714 reviews2 followers
March 22, 2017
I give Knight Takes Pawn (Red Knight, book 1) by Martha Sweeney 5 stars.

Red was finally caught. The sex slave trade is huge and it finally caught up to her. She ran for so long, but now she is in this cell and her first client is coming thru the door. But she won’t have it. She must survive. So she does the only thing she can think of. She knows she will be punished more, but she’s not letting these horrible guys touch her. And then the boss comes in and she knows she’s done for.

Jagger runs everything. He is the most powerful man in this world. He runs everything, the sex trade, the drugs, the guns. He takes everything away from those poor people who are too stupid to take care of themselves. He has heard there is trouble with one of the new girls brought in. He goes down to check on it and sees what she did to the client. He likes the way she works. This might be a good investment. They will never see her coming and she seems to enjoy it. He immediately pulls her out and the makes a little deal with her. He will bring her special clients and she will be treated much better than the rest of the girls.

Most of the girls are given to his men to keep them company. No one wants to choose Red. They are afraid of what Jagger will say since she seems to be his pet. Except for one man. And he seems to treat Red nicely, much nicer than any of the other men would treat her. But life has told her to trust no one. He seems kind, but he is just out for himself. Eventually though she starts to question everything. Maybe living like this isn’t so bad. Sure she’s essentially a prisoner, but she has it better than she’s had in a long time. Jagger may be into shady things, but he treats her with respect. And this other man, could she really be developing feeling for him?

This book is wonderful. I could not put it down. It has everything: sex, romance, violence, mystery, surprises. The people are written so well. The atmosphere and events are done in a way that will make you feel like you are there. And the sex! Wow! I really felt for Red and what she is going thru. I feel like I am her when I was reading it. This is the best compliment I could give.
Profile Image for Sunday.
1,024 reviews5 followers
March 22, 2017
Knight Takes Pawn (Red Knight Book 1) by Martha Sweeney
Four Stars

Knight Takes Pawn is the first book in the Red Knight series and the first book I have read by Martha Sweeney. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to continue with the series. Ms. Sweeney has opened up this new world of post apocalyptic war. The characters come to life in this book. This book may not be for everyone, the abuse and portrayal of women is not always positive. This story drew me in from the first chapter. I read the whole book in one setting which leaves me waiting for more.

Jagger rules everything in this worldly Jaru, guns, drugs, sex trade, and even water. Natalie is taken captive by men ruled by Jagger to service in the sex trade. She is locked in a room and expected to service any man that is let in. She know that she can't let that happen no matter the consequences. When Jagger come to the room she thinks she will be killed for not following the rules. What Jagger see instead is an opportunity and Red is born. Red must take care of special client that Jagger sends to her, they will never see it coming. The deal they make is Red will have a better life if she fixes these little problems for Jagger.

Knight is a new problem solver in Jaggers crew. When Jagger lets the men in his crew choose a girl. Knight takes Red. Red trusts no one. She tries to kill Knight a few times and is always trying to run away until she realizes that Knight is not so bad. They become friends and she think she may not be better off on her own in this world.

This book contains action, suspense, violence and romance. It is definitely an 18+ book. Once you start reading you won't want to put it down. Great read.
Profile Image for Amber Eckstein.
485 reviews4 followers
March 22, 2017
Knight Takes Pawn
By Martha Sweeney

Four Stars

This is my very first book by this author so I had no idea what to expect especially when it comes from a new author that I had never heard before. A friend told me to try her out that I would not be disappointed. Still, I was afraid to try another new author (my run was very good lately, bound to come to an end eventually, right?)

Well Martha Sweeney did not disappoint when it came Knight Takes Pawn. It was not at all what I expected when it came to this book. It was everything wrapped up in one. Not only did you get a little bit of violence in it, there was the sexiness that comes with erotica.

I am fond of authors who create worlds. It is one of the things that I love about the most about authors. When they create a world that is their own. And this author did it, she created this world and it’s on slang. This was the one thing that got me. Though some of it was a nice touch some of it I had to keep going back and forth between the glossary hoping to remember it. You pick up on it, but wished the author would have used just regular terms.

Natalie aka Red, has been hurt, beaten and disrespected. She is strong even when she believed she was not. Kidnapped and sold. Everything she had been through had been difficult but she survived. Not only is she fierce, something that Jagger had been looking for.

Jagger is the leader. Who sees something in Natalie, and uses that. Uses her ruthlessness to his advantage. In everything she survives thru and thru.

Martha keeps you hanging out in this world. Seeing everything that is going on in this world. Keep hold of this and follow both Natalie and Jagger through the story. Dystopian lovers will definitely loved this and fall in love with them.
Profile Image for Melissa Schaub.
1,584 reviews
March 27, 2017
4 Stars ****

Knight Takes Pawn by Martha Sweeney is the first book in her Red Knight series and is a great book that will leave you anxious to finish the book, just so that you can see how it ends. The book takes place on another planet but other than a few words that are different, it reads just like on this planet so do not let that discourage you from reading this book.
Natalie (AKA Red) was taken forcefully and brought in under Jagger’s sex trade, but she refuses to just except her new reality. Jagger controls everything and it is in her best interest not to refuse what he offers but she will not allow these men to use her. After she protects herself with her first client, Jagger decides to change up what clients he will allow access to her but he encourages her bad behavior for these clients. When Jagger offers all his girls up to his team, she has no choice by accept Knight.
Ryan Knight is finally part of Jagger’s inner circle and he has been trying for some time to prove his loyalty. When he first hears of the infamous Red, he was not expecting her to look like every man’s fantasy and when he has the chance to “own” her, he doesn’t hesitate.
Will these two be able to be the light in each others darkness or will the destroy each other before it is all over?
I really enjoyed this book and I can not wait to read more of this entire series. I love Ryan, he is the most patient guy and deals with Red beautifully. Red is so headstrong and stubborn but tries to lighten it up for Ryan but struggles with where her life is taking her. They are both great characters and so much fun to read.
40 reviews3 followers
April 6, 2017
Knight takes Pawn by Martha Sweeny is the first in the Red Knight series and is a five star read. This is the first book I have read by this author and it won't be the last.
It takes place on the planet Jaru, and Jagger rules everything basically by violence, the people are terrified of him and his soldiers, women are treated like slaves and if anyone slights him they are killed. Resources are depleted and the people are starving.
Natalie is captured and destined to become a sex slave but on her first night she kills her first ‘client’ and draws Jagger's attention, she refuses to speak to him and he assumes she is mute, he christens her Red. From then on Red is used to dispose of men for Jagger.
Knight becomes part of Jagger's inner group and is the first man to spend a night with Red without being killed. They form a bond despite being flung together in violent circumstances.
I loved the characters in this book, even the ones I hated! No one can trust anyone else, there are spies everywhere and everyone walks on egg shells all the time, the tension and suspense in the book does not let up at all. It is a compelling read and not an easy one at times. It is a dark, scary world but thee is a glimmer of hope.
I won't spoil it but the ending - it is brilliant and leaves you wanting to start the next book immediately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sheri.
856 reviews4 followers
April 8, 2017
Knight Takes Pawn by Martha Sweeney is the first in the Red Knight book series. The story takes place on the Planet Jaru. There Jagger runs one of three sovereigns and the rules change on a whim. Get on Jagger’s bad side and expect a torturous fate. There has been a war going on for many years and the resources are severely limited. Everyone is trying to stay alive and will do anything to protect themselves.
Since things are so bad some are planning a coup against Jagger. Natalie is kidnapped and forced into slavery. She is strong and will do anything to change her situation. There is so much intrigue and twists and turns. I read through this book very quickly. I wanted to know what would happen and was curious of how things would happen. I liked that there were common themes to modern life but that the setting was changed. Sometimes things seem different or give a different perspective when the setting is changed.
This is my first book by this author and I look forward to more in this series. This had good description and strong characters. There are so hard subjects to cover but I think it was handled well by the author. I always enjoy a story that has a bit sci-fi, fantasy, and thriller. Also, enjoy an author who has some words that are just for the world they have created. She was cool enough to put a quick glossary at the beginning to make it easy.
Profile Image for Nadine Bookaholic.
3,660 reviews484 followers
July 3, 2017
This story is unlike anything else author Martha Sweeney has written before and I think she did a wonderful job with it. This book has some likable characters as well as a few that I wanted to knock around and deliver a few good right hooks to. This story takes place on another planet, Jaru, which makes it a science-fiction story, but it reminded me more of a dystopian story.

You can see my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...
Profile Image for Latifa Morrisette.
2,499 reviews61 followers
March 21, 2017
If there​ is one book that you need to read this year it is definitely Martha Sweeney's Knight Takes Pawn. This book is actually my first full length book by her and I was blown away by the storyline and the characters. I'm definitely curious about what's next in this series!

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book!
Profile Image for Julie.
282 reviews
March 21, 2017
Knight Takes Pawn by Martha Sweeney is a four star novel. Reading the introduction pages, I felt like I would be transformed into a whole different world and was pleasantly surprised when that wasn't necessarily the case. In the first several pages, we learn some different, made up words for everything that is normal for us like coffee, tea, making love, etc. this helps us to know what those words stand for when we come to them in the text, but other than that, it is just a normal book. Natalie is taken by Jagger, who is a ruler of this world. There are many poor people and a few elite. The elite though are still just trying to get by after the war because they don't think they have enough either. Most women are working the streets just to make ends meet, so when Natalie gets taken, she is assuming what will happen to her. She has been working as a boy in a factory so that she wouldn't be taken for the sex industry. But then Jagger gets ahold of her and she is scared. She is locked into a room and told to play nice. When the first man comes in to have his way with her, she takes matters into her own hands and saves herself by killing him. Jagger can't believe what he sees. The next night, a second man gets killed by Natalie. Jagger changes her name to Red and knows she can handle herself so now she is doing his dirty work by getting rid of the men he thinks are awful people. That's when she meets Ryan Knight. He somehow makes it out of her room alive after a full night with her. He is the first one. He earns many bonus points with Jagger and becomes one of his higher in command. Will Red ever trust him or will she continue to work alone and trust no one. How will Knight handle his new responsibilities with Jagger? Keep reading to find out!
306 reviews2 followers
March 21, 2017
Knight Takes Pawn by Martha Sweeny
Stars: 4
The world has been engulfed in war. Because of that war, different domains have been formed. Resources are now severely limited and are increasingly precious. One of those domains, Jagger rules everything. This world is very much everyone for themselves. There are those in this new world who would like to see Jagger’s rule end so that they can save the planet and their species. Caught up in all the drama of Jagger’s world is Natalie. She was taken from her domain into Jagger’s sex trade. However, Natalie’s will to live and inner strength is stronger than she even thought possible.
Natalie is nicknamed Red in the story by Jagger. I loved that her character could face such aversity and still have her inner strength. She finds a way to use all the pain and trauma to use as motivation to survive. Natalie changes and grows throughout the story. Some of this change is great that helps her figure out things about herself. Other changes are necessary to survive, but are not positive things.
Ryan is probably my favorite character in the book. He cares for Natalie and helps her overcome so much in her new life. He is sweet to her and understands her probably more than she fully understands herself at times. He gives her the tools to survive her new world.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this story. It is written and flows well. Furthermore, I am excited to see where the author takes this story. The author has put a notice that this story contains sensitive material that reader discretion is advised. I love that she did that, because for some readers, it may not be appropriate. This book does contain sexual material, some violent scenes, and a rape scene.
Profile Image for Sara ✨ Next Book Review Blog ✨.
2,105 reviews5 followers
March 21, 2017
This book is the most original book you will read this year to date… Martha Sweeney is just this magical woman that can create, literally, a whole new world between her covers. Knight Takes Pawn is a work of art… I’m serious; Sweeney does not just write books… she creates art. Besides the absolute beauty that the actual book is, once you crack this bad boy open… well you will be jacking enthralled!

Red is an amazing character. She’s just a normal every day woman that will not just accept her fate. She is one of the most original and empowering characters I have ever read about. I was in her corner from the start! It doesn’t matter that no one was on her side; that she was by herself with only her brains and sneakiness for protection in a world where women are used, abused, and forced into sexual slavery.

This is not life as we know it, this is not a secret life hidden behind closed doors… this is Jaru. It’s a place unlike anything you will ever see. Who can you trust? Who is who? What are their ulterior motives? There are no rules… until there are. There is complete control… or is there. This book crossed all the boundaries… there was suspense, romance, rape, abuse, slavery, sex, same sex, violence, but most of all… you get the bit of hope that is pushed through.

Every book of Martha Sweeney’s that I’ve read has been off the charts. Every time I read a new one from her… I think, this is it… this is her BEST work. Sweeney keeps upping the ante on herself. She’s amazing… a true word artist. You will get pulled into the land that Sweeney creates and after… you may just stumble around wondering how she accomplished something like this… how she wrote something so out of the realm’s of “norm” and blew the jacking shit out of it!! I applaud you Martha! This book… you’ve done something amazing here and I need more… like sooner than 2018.

I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I will leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Profile Image for Missy.
87 reviews6 followers
February 26, 2022
I'm not usually one for dark stuff, but this had me from the first page. That ending...OMG! Thank goodness the second book is already out.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.