Dear Reader,

I always knew I would write Savage’s story. He had been calling to me for a very long time, and my heart broke for him because he was so lost. What I didn’t know was that I would be sharing his story—and ultimately two stories—with you. Most of my longtime readers are aware that Savage is a sexual sadist. I did so much research and spoke with two counselors who helped me try to understand what happens to children who are victimized for extended periods of time by pedophiles or traffickers. I knew there was no changing what Savage was, no miraculous cure for the pain caused during his childhood. For me, that made the heartbreak worse, because it meant he knew it as well. I began to write his story just to get it out of my head and to give him a happy ending, or one I could live with.

I began receiving hundreds of letters asking for Savage’s story, and once that started, it was like a dam had broken or there was a conspiracy. The letters poured in. In my community, I asked why readers, knowing he was a sadist, would want his story. I pointed out it wouldn’t be a fairy tale, because I must share the reality of what the characters’ lives would be like. I appreciated the honest answers and was convinced to share his story.

My solution is to give you Savage’s story in two stand-alone books. The first, Annihilation Road, tells the story of his meeting Seychelle and falling in love. There is very little in it to trigger readers who have read the Torpedo Ink series and know the stories are raw and edgy. The story is complete and will satisfy the reader. The second book, Savage Road, comes immediately following in January 2022: it follows Seychelle and Savage’s journey both physically and, more importantly, emotionally. As always, club business will be shown in both books, but there is no important information a reader will miss if they choose not to read Savage Road. There are elements of Savage Road that some readers may find triggering, as the book deals specifically with Savage’s sexual proclivities. Both books are intense, emotional and the story of two people in love in a heartbreaking situation. I loved the characters and their stories and found them to be courageous in so many ways.

I truly hope you love them too, whether you choose to read one or both of the stories of their journey together.

Best,

Christine Feehan