The Souls We Claim (Iron Outlaws MC 7) by Scarlett Cole-review

Posted on May 16, 2024 by Sandy

🧡The Souls We Claim (Iron Outlaws MC 7) by Scarlett Cole-review🧡

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 16, 2024

Vengeance is the only thing on my mind.
Because nobody comes after my family and lives to talk about it.
But now I have responsibilities I can’t ignore.
And while the arrival of a sweet young woman with a busted face is the answer to my prayers, she’s also on my mind in ways she shouldn’t be.
I’m too old for her, and a relationship wasn’t in my game plan.
Yet, as those who would hurt me close in, I realize there are no lengths I won’t go to to protect the love I’ve claimed.

••••

REVIEW:THE SOULS WE CLAIM is the seventh instalment in Scarlett Cole’s contemporary adult IRON OUTLAWS MC erotic, MC romance series. This is thirty-three year old, Iron Outlaws MC road captain Jackson ‘Halo’ Flynn, and twenty-three year old Arianne ‘Ari’ Osborne’s story line. THE SOULS WE CLAIM can be read as a stand alone but for back story I recommend reading books five and six.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Halo and Ari) THE SOULS WE CLAIM follows after the arrival of our story line heroine. Arianne Osborne arrives battered and bruised, in the hopes of attending her older sister’s funeral but with one look, Jackson ‘Halo’ Flynn is determined to claim Arianne Osborne as his own but Ari needs to recover, and Halo’s past refuses to let go. As Arianne continues to heal, Halo must come to a decision about the woman who has stolen his heart. What ensues is the building relationship between Ari and Halo, and the potential fallout as Ari’s past refuses to walk away, and Halo must face a past he knew nothing about.

The world building focuses on death and loss when the Iron Outlaws MC loose one of their own.Jackson ‘Halo’ Flynn is taking the losses personally, while Ari Osborne refuses to be a further burden to anyone else.

The relationship between Ari and Halo begins as mutual attraction but Ari’s ex Patrick refuses to let go, and in this, Halo is battling between head and heart while Patrick continues to plague our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and impassioned-there is a slight daddy / Dom kink .

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and dynamic secondary and supporting characters including club president Uther ‘King’ Hills, and therapist Rae Miller, Saint and Briar, Iris and Spark, as well as Nico, Switch; Ari’s parents, and her ex Patrick.

THE SOULS WE CLAIM is a story of betrayal, abuse and vengeance; secrets and lies; power and control, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The premise is dark, gritty and dramatic; the romance is fated and furious; the characters are energetic, determined and charismatic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

The Sins We Hide
The Games We Play
The Lies We Tell
The Bonds We Break
The Vows We Keep
The Loves We Lost

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

The tattoo across my right hip says it all really. A Life Less Ordinary. Inked by the amazingly talented Luke Wessman at the Wooster Street Social Club (a.k.a. New York Ink). Why is it important? Well, it sums up my view on life. That we should all aspire to live a life that is less boring, less predictable. Be bold, and do something amazing. I’ve made some crazy choices. I’ve been a car maker, a consultant, and even a senior executive at a large retailer running strategy. Born in England, spent time in the U.S. and Japan, before ending up in Canada where I met my own, personal hero – all six and a half feet of him. Both of us are scorpios! Yeah, I know! Should have checked the astrological signs earlier, but somehow it works for us. We have two amazing kids, who I either could never part with or could easily be convinced to sell on e-bay.

I’ve wanted to be a writer for a really long time. Check through my office cupboards or my computer and you’ll find half written stories and character descriptions everywhere. Now I’m getting the chance to follow that dream.

To find out about S. Cole’s upcoming releases and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter here

Connect with Scarlett Cole:

Website: http://www.scarlettcole.com/
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsscarlettcole/
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarlettcole/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ItsScarlettCole
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Now and Forever (Brutal Vows 1) by Aleatha Romig-review tour

Posted on May 13, 2024 by Sandy

Now and Forever (Brutal Vows 1) by Aleatha Romig-review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 13, 2024

Arranged marriage, age-gap, mafia/cartel romance

Capo to the Luciano Famiglia was my birthright.

The cruelty needed to succeed in this life has been beaten into me since I was a young boy. My father, Vincent Luciano, taught by example and with the slap of his hand. My independent streak took me down paths my father would never have gone. With our enemies gaining strength, it is my idea to attempt an alliance with an unlikely bedfellow.

The Roríguez Cartel and the Luciano Famiglia are improbable partners, yet even Vincent Luciano can’t deny the possible benefits. The only way to solidify the deal is for me to marry Catalina Ruiz, the eldest daughter of Andres Ruiz, a top lieutenant in the Roríguez Cartel.

Catalina is young, beautiful, and thinks she understands the path she is being forced to follow. There is no way for her to know the monster she is about to wed. A man doesn’t become a made man at thirteen if he is capable of love. That emotion is beyond my scope of expertise. Saving the famiglia is my goal. And once this alliance is made, ours will be but the first of the brutal vows exchanged.

•••••

REVIEW:NOW AND FOREVER is the first instalment in Aleatha Romig’s contemporary, adult BRUTAL VOWS dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is soon to be capo of the Luciano Famiglia, thirty-five year old Dario Famiglia, and twenty-four year old, Cartel princess Catalina Ruiz’s story line.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Dario and Catalina) NOW AND FOREVER follows in the aftermath of the arranged marriage between our story line couple. In an effort to secure position, and shore up powers, Andres Ruiz, head of the Mexican Cartel, offered up his daughter to the Italian Mafia, wherein, she would marry soon to be capo Dario Luciano. All was not well with the Luciano Famiglia, of Kansas City, a power struggle for the seat at the top, was about to rain down, targeting our story line heroine, and all the women who came before. Dario Luciano has worked his way to the top of the food chain but a betrayal would threaten the peace, and the relationship with his young wife. What ensues is the building relationship between Dario and Catalina, and the potential fall-out as deception comes at a cost, and Dario must take action before more innocent lives are lost.

The world building reveals some of the back story and history between the members of the Luciano Famiglia: the fight for control, and the betrayal that forces Dario to destroy those who would destroy everyone else. Catalina’s never expected to be ‘sold’ to the highest bidder, and rumors about her intended threatened any sense of normality our heroine had hoped for the future.

The relationship between Dario and Catalina begins as an arranged marriage in which Catalina is a pawn used to bargain her father’s position of power.Raised to know her place in the Cartel society, Catalina was not surprised but expected never expected to find herself married to the Italian Mafia. Dario Luciano’s rise to the top meant choosing a suitable wife ; a woman who is completely aware of the lifestyle of a mobster; a woman whose duty is to stand by his side. From the outset, Dario warns he is a violent man but the women in his life never have to fear his temper or loss of control. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and powerful secondary and supporting characters including Catalina’s sister Camila, brother Em, and their father Andres Ruiz; Dario’s brother Dante, their sister Mia, and their father Vincent, as well as Dario’s brother in law Rocco Moretti, housekeeper Contessa, extended family members, friends, and security. The requisite evil has many faces.

NOW AND FOREVER is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic and impassioned but not as dark as some other Mafia story lines. The characters are strong and committed; the romance is seductive.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Aleatha Romig is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author who lives in Indiana, USA. She grew up in Mishawaka, graduated from Indiana University, and is currently living south of Indianapolis. Aleatha has raised three children with her high school sweetheart and husband of over thirty years. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she’s not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time a with her family and friends. Her other pastimes include reading and creating heroes/anti-heroes who haunt your dreams and bring your imagination to life!

Aleatha released her first novel, CONSEQUENCES, in August of 2011. CONSEQUENCES became a bestselling series with five novels and two companions released from 2011 through 2015. The compelling and epic story of Anthony and Claire Rawlings has graced more than half a million e-readers. Aleatha released the first of her series TALES FROM THE DARK SIDE, INSIDIOUS, in the fall of 2014. These stand alone thrillers continue Aleatha’s twisted style with an increase in heat.

In the fall of 2015, Aleatha moved head first into the world of dark romantic suspense with the release of BETRAYAL, the first of her five novel INFIDELITY series that has taken the reading world by storm. She also began her traditional publishing career with Thomas and Mercer. Her books INTO THE LIGHT and AWAY FROM THE DARK were published through this mystery/thriller publisher in 2016.

In the spring of 2017, Aleatha released her first stand-alone, fun, and sexy romantic comedy with PLUS ONE, followed by the sweet stand-alone, ONE NIGHT.

Aleatha is a “Published Author’s Network” member of the Romance Writers of America and PEN America. She is represented by Kevan Lyon of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.

And if you’re new to ALEATHA, check out her FREE books.

WICKED EMPIRE (The Seven Deadly Sinacores 5) by Aidee Jaimes

Posted on May 9, 2024 by Sandy

WICKED EMPIRE (The Seven Deadly Sinacores 5) by Aidee Jaimes-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 30, 2024

I always knew there’d be a cost to pay for being a thief, but when I cross Gavin Alexander, the wicked price he demands might be more than I can afford.

After living on the streets for years, I managed to get my life together for my son. I have a job as a housekeeper. A car that runs. A tiny apartment.

But when things suddenly become dire, I’m left with no choice but to steal again. I make myself believe it’s chump change for my boss, the billionaire would never notice the few hundred dollars from his dirty laundry.

My mistake isn’t that it’s pennies to a wealthy man. It’s that he’s not just any wealthy man. He’s the king of the Vegas underworld, a dangerous criminal with dangerous enemies. When he catches me red handed and his eyes trail over me, a flicker of desire forms in them and he makes me a deal. Report me to the police and lose my son, or enter his dangerous world and submit to his wicked desires. Fans of Zoe Blake and Cassandra Robbins will devour Wicked Empire, the fifth book in the Seven Deadly Sinacores, a scorching hot mafia romance by Aidee James that takes dark romance to a whole new depth.

••••

REVIEW: WICKED EMPIRE is the fifth instalment in Aidee Jaimes’ contemporary, adult THE SEVEN DEADLY SINACORES dark, erotic, crime world, romance series. This is thirty-eight year old, billionaire hotelier Gavin Alexander, and housecleaner/ single mother Anderson ‘Andie’ Burrows’ story line. WICKED EMPIRE can be read as a stand alone but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order as there is an ongoing premise throughout.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers including knife play.

SOME BACKGROUND: All is not well in the criminal underworld, several of the men in charge of the most powerful families in America have been murdered, and there is a connection for all to a murder from the past. The survivors have formed a group known as the Sinacore Alliance, in an effort to take down the person(s) responsible for the death and destruction of family and friends.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Gavin and Andie) WICKED EMPIRE follows in the wake of a theft by our story line heroine. Andie Burrows is a single mother, and finding miscellaneous amounts of money while doing laundry, tempts our heroine to take what does not belong but Andie will be caught, and in an effort to save herself from doing time, Andie is blackmailed by the man in charge. Enter billionaire Gavin Alexander, the man with whom Andie will fall in love. Gavin Alexander is determined to take back what Andie took from him, and in doing so, demands seven days of her life, a life that is now under Gavin’s control but someone has targeted our story line hero, and Andie and Gavin are about to find themselves on the run, with no one to trust, including those Gavin once considered family and friends. What ensues is the building but acrimonious relationship between Andie and Gavin, and the potential fall-out as Gavin must come to terms with a possible betrayal from more than one person.

The world building focuses on Gavin’s life, his business, his hotels, and his casinos but someone else is determined to take control, and targets Gavin and our story line heroine.

The relationship between Gavin and Andie begins as employer and employee but quickly turns sour when Gavin catches Andie with money she does not own. To keep her from prison, Gavin blackmails our heroine into seven days of servitude, seven days in which Gavin finds himself falling in love with reluctant prisoner. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, powerful and questionable secondary and supporting characters. Gavin struggles to trust those closest to him , and in this, Gavin will have to trust someone who could destroy them all.

WICKED EMPIRE is a story of betrayal and vengeance, greed and opportunity, power and control, trust and uncertainty, friendships and family, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic and raw; the romance is intoxicating and impassioned; the characters are desperate and dynamic.

Previous reviews and Reading Order
Merciless Vows
Ruthless Heir
Cruel Prince
Vicious Captor

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

TAINTED DESIRE (Ruthless Rogues Mafia 2) by Kat Bammer -review

Posted on May 3, 2024 by Sandy

TAINTED DESIRE (Ruthless Rogues Mafia 2) by Kat Bammer

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 3, 2024

I’m the king of bad decisions. One more won’t hurt.

I never asked to be kidnapped…again.
Never asked to be a third-wheel on my best friend’s honeymoon either.
But what I really don’t need is for Alessandro Falcone-bad boy mafia prince–to act as my self-assigned protector.
Malta is vibrant & welcoming.
My host–not so much.
As if barking orders and growling threats would have any effect on me.
Only when he holds me tight and tells me to breathe and keep my eyes on him, when I’m triggered–I see another side of him.
One that I do my darnest to dismiss.
We’re on a collision course to disaster.
Because I will never give up my freedom.
He’s the most dominant man I’ve ever met.
When Alex Falcone wants something, he usually gets it.
This time it’s me.
But I’m not to be had.

••••••

REVIEW: TAINTED DESIRE is the second instalment in Kat Bammer’s contemporary, adult RUTHLESS ROGUES MAFIA dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is Alessandro ‘Alex’ Falcone, and Irish Mafia princess Fiona ‘Fee’ Donnelly’s story line. TAINTED DESIRE can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading book one SINFUL HONOR for back story and cohesion as many of the events in the current timeline are as of a direct result of the events in the previous book.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Alex and Fee) TAINTED DESIRE follows in the wake of the marriage of Fiona’s sister Sophie, to Mafia Don Gabriel Falcone but in an effort to protect and keep an eye on our story line heroine, Sophie and Gabriel all but kidnap Fiona, and take her on their honeymoon to Malta, where Fiona will come face to face with Alessandro Falcone, the bane of our heroine’s existence. Refusing to play their game, believing there is no longer a threat to her life, Fiona continues to act out until she finds herself reliving the past over and over again but there is a war brewing in the criminal underworld, and our heroine is about to get caught in the middle, a pawn to be sold to the highest bidder. What ensues is the building but acrimonious relationship between Fiona and Alex, and the potential fall-out as Alex must come to terms about his birthright, and Fiona discovers the reason for her parent’s hatred.

The world building focuses on dysfunctional families including the revelations about the who, how and why. Fiona has always felt like an outsider, and she will discover the why; and Alex is forced to assume a role he was born to play.

The relationship between Fee and Alex is tempestuous at best. Fiona wants nothing to do with Alessandro Falcone, and struggles with her new brother in law’s attempts to protect and guard. Alessandro is a man who feels betrayals at the darkest regions of his heart but it is the betrayal that is about to place him in the direct line of fire, inciting a war between the controlling families. The $ex scenes are provocative and seductive.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and powerful secondary and supporting characters in several members of the Russian Bratva, Irish Mob and Italian Mafia including the return of Alex’s brother Gabriel and Sophie; Alex’s right hand man Matteo and his brother Vincenzo Salvini; Fiona’s sisters Jemma and Cara as well as their Uncle Craig; Fiona’s friend Frank, and Ivan Zotov. The requisite evil has many faces.

TAINTED DESIRE is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, power and control, dysfunctional family values, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic, dark,and intense; the romance is fated and passionate; the characters are desperate and dynamic. TAINTED DESIRE ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Damaged Kingdom (Gilded Empire 2) by MJ Crouch-review

Posted on May 3, 2024 by Sandy

Damaged Kingdom (Gilded Empire 2) by MJ Crouch-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 3, 2024

I always knew I would die young, so being left to bleed out on a warehouse floor is no shock to me.

But as the blood seeps from my body, my thoughts aren’t of the Marcosa empire I’ve ruled for years, or the city I’ve given everything to protect.

It’s on the three men who’ve stood by my side:

Greyson: my soul, my foundation. So hard and reserved, showing emotion only to me.

Dominic: my heart, my first love. He’s a dreamer but can wreck me in the best ways possible.

Nate: my comfort, my peace. He soothes and calms me even though I’ve only known him a short time.

My enemies have done their best to destroy me, and now it’s up to my men to piece me back together.

They will do anything to make that happen. But they can’t protect me from the threat none of us ever saw coming…

••••

REVIEW: DAMAGED KINGDOM is the second in instalment in MJ Crouch’s contemporary, adult GILDED EMPIRE dark, erotic, reverse harem, organized crime romance series focusing on on Mariana Marcosa, queen of the Marcosa empire, and the three men who will control her heart: Greyson Andrews, Dominic, and Nate Black. DAMAGED KINGDOM should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book one BROKEN CROWN.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including graphic violence, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers

Told from four first person perspectives (Mari, Grey, Dominic, Nate) DAMAGED KINGDOM follows in the wake of an attempt on our heroine’s life. Mari Marcosa is the queen of the criminal underworld but there are some who would prefer a man at the top. Targeted for her position and power, Mari finds herself facing down an enemy she barely knows but along with the three men whom she loves Greyson, Dominic and Nate, Marie is a force unto herself but as the hits against Mari and the men continue, betrayal will come from within, forcing Mari to reconsider the future going forward.

The world building is detailed and gritty. Mari is a woman in charge; a woman on a mission who loves and is loved but one of her father’s former men is taking aim at the top, and Mari refuses to step aside for someone else.

The relationship between Mari and Grey, Dominic and Nate is a reverse harem affair. Mari continues to struggle with a perceived betrayal from Dominic but forgiveness will come easy when the heart wants something more. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative,often in pairs or sometimes all four.

The secondary and supporting characters are numerous and powerful including the heads of several crime organizations and their families. Cassius ‘Cash’ Beckstrom is taking aim at the top but Cash has a secret, one that is about to destroy our story line heroine, and the men whom she loves.

DAMAGED KINGDOM is a story of power and control, secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, greed and jealousy,family and relationships. The premise is dark and dramatic; the romances are seductive and erotic; the characters are desperate, progressive and charismatic. DAMAGED KINGDOM ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Click HERE to read Sandy’s review of book one BROKEN CROWN

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

SCARS OF HIS WRATH (Myth of Omega: Wrath 1) by Zoey Ellis-review

Posted on May 1, 2024 by Sandy

SCARS OF HIS WRATH (Myth of Omega: Wrath 1) by Zoey Ellis-review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 26, 2024

Bound by fate to the man she’s sworn to defy.

Revered for her magical ability, Naya is the most treasured omega in her parents’ empire. Her birth marked the arrival of peace in the land, and her people eagerly await her reign.

But Naya is haunted by a tragedy.

Finding her mate is the key to banishing the shadows plaguing her. Yet no matter how hard she searches, Naya can’t find the one who ignites the profound attraction her mate is destined to arouse.

Then one night, she is stolen.

Akoro, an alpha dominated by vengeance and violence, takes her to a distant land where her powers are useless. A cold-hearted king, he demands she help him conquer her empire.

Naya vows to safeguard her people, but she is horrified when Akoro awakens the primal craving that confirms he is her true mate.

Devastated, she endures his cruelty and growing obsession with her, certain they could never be together.

But Akoro has scars of his own.

His secrets might help her oppose him, but as she digs deeper, the desire between them erupts into an irresistible, heated torment.

••••

REVIEW: SCARS OF HIS WRATH is the first instalment in Zoey Ellis’ adult MYTH OF OMEGA: WRATH dark, erotic, fantasy series focusing on Alpha Akoro, and Omega Naya.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story premise, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Akoro and Naya) SCARS OF HIS WRATH follows Princess Nayara Andaus aka Naya, a twenty five year old Omega, wielder of powerful magic but a woman without a true mate or a will to move on from the past. Abducted by a stranger from the forest she loves, Naya finds herself a prisoner, tortured and abused, a prisoner who is about to face her future in the guise of Alpha Akoro, a man who is determined to destroy her body and soul. Akoro and his army have set their sights on Naya’s lands, seeking vengeance for sins of the past, sins that continue to destroy the people and lands Akora inhabits. What ensues is the acrimonious relationship between Akoro and Naya, and the fall-out as Naya is about to become a pawn in a war between Akoro and the people Naya loves.

The world building is detailed and dark. The reader is pulled into a desolate landscape where nothing is able to survive, as our heroine struggles to remain herself in spite of what is happening around her including the torture meant to break her will.

The relationship between Akora and Naya is tempestuous at best. Naya is Akoro’ s prisoner, treated with disdain by the man who is about to claim Naya as his mate. Naya is nothing more than the key to Agora’s revenge, and in this, Naya is about to sacrifice to save the people she loves. The $ex scenes are intense and not without questionable consent or tenderness.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters most of whom bow down to Alpha Akoro. Magic is a part of both worlds, and in this, each character is imbued with a speciality and gift that can be used including dark and light magic.

SCARS OF HIS WRATH is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, magic and mayhem. The premise is dark and dramatic; the characters are powerful, magical and determined; the romance is non-existent-Akoro takes from Naya whenever he wants.SCARS OF HIS WRATH ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

The Villains We Make by Natasha Knight-review tour

Posted on April 24, 2024 by Sandy

The Villains We Make (Heroes & Villains Duet 2) by Natasha Knight-review tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 23, 2024

You can’t marry him if you’re already married to me.

That was how Silas Cruz proposed to me—more like demanded, really. He didn’t exactly give me a choice.

He’s dark, jealous and incredibly possessive.

And he’s just one of the villains in my story.

I used to think he was my hero.

Still, there’s one thing I know for sure. Whenever I need him, whenever I’m in danger, he comes for me. He’s proven that time and time again.

Now, the game has changed, the stakes life and death.

But loving Silas may be the most dangerous thing for me. Because he’s the man who holds my heart in the palm of his hand.

•••••

REVIEW:THE VILLAINS WE MAKE is the second instalment in Natasha Knight’s contemporary, adult HEROES AND VILLAINS dark, erotic, romance duet focusing on Ophelia ‘Phee’ Hart, and Silas Cruz. THE VILLAINS WE MAKE can not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book one THE HEROES WE BREAK.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers. If you have not read book one, there may be spoilers in my review.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Phee and Silas) using present day and memories from the past THE VILLAINS WE MAKE follows in the wake of a series of surprise reveals, and the attempted abduction of our story line heroine. Years earlier, Ophelia grew up alongside Ethan Fox, and Silas Cruz but years of abuse and rejection at the hands of his father pushed Silas to seek out a new direction. Upon his return he discovered the woman he loved engaged to someone else, someone who was taking aim at our story line hero but beneath the surface, the secrets were dark and dangerous, and Ophelia was about to pay the price for the sins of someone else.What ensues is rebuilding relationship between Ophelia and Silas, as greed and madness threaten our story line couple.

The world building follows several pathways including the lies and secrets that surround our heroine’s life. Everything she once thought was the truth, the who and the how, are now something and something else, and in this, Ophelia Hart struggles to believe or trust the man who has always held her heart.

The relationship between Phee and Silas began as childhood friends but Silas’ life was never easy. His father’s rejections, his brother’s contempt, where but the proverbial tip of the iceberg but his need for vengeance, and his love for Ophelia Hart were the things that kept him alive. Reconnecting with Ophelia, and professing his love, would once again, place our couple in the direct line of fire. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.

The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and dynamic, controversial and questionable. We are up close and personal with family and friends, and family members that consider themselves more worthy than others.

THE VILLAINS WE MAKE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, greed and jealousy, family and friendships, forgiveness and love . The premise is raw, dark and dramatic; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are broken, desperate, and charismatic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one THE HEROES WE BREAK

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance, Natasha Knight specializes in dark, tortured heroes. Happily-Ever-Afters are guaranteed, but she likes to put her characters through hell to get them there. She’s evil like that.

Website: https://natasha-knight.com/
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The Desires That Burn by Kristen Luciani-Review & Excerpt tour

Posted on April 22, 2024 by Sandy

The Desires That Burn (Obsidian Knights Secret Society 2) by Kristen Luciani-review & excerpt tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 18, 2024

I have a weakness for bad boys…and my latest obsession? My father’s best friend.Gorgeous and powerful. Ruthless and deadly. Orion is the threat of death wrapped in a 6’5 tattooed package of filthy intent. He’s my new bodyguard. And my father’s trusted friend and hired gun. Lines quickly blur when he shows up to rescue me from a depraved group called the Collectors. My Internet fame got me caught in their dark and twisted crosshairs. Orion is the only one who can save me. But his method of protection quickly turns into something much more carnal when I call him Daddy.

He demands everything from me. My obedience. My submission. My body. He calls me young and spoiled, swearing he wants nothing to do with me beyond this job. Yet I’m the only one who can make him lose the control he hangs onto so tightly. Each minute we’re together makes him forget why my father sent him. Obligation turns into scorching hot passion that flares out of control. He makes my blood burn hot and passions run wild. Even though we have no future beyond this mission, we can’t stay away from each other. I want him to make me his, to claim me, to own me in every way. But when the Collectors close in to expose my biggest weakness, I have no choice but to go to them. To save my Daddy Orion. The question is, will he be able to save me?

••••

REVIEW:THE DESIRES THAT BURN is the second instalment in Kristen Luciani’s contemporary adult OBSIDIAN KNIGHTS SECRET SOCIETY dark, erotic, romance series focusing on a secret society of billionaires and assassins. This is former US Special Forces/ assassin for hire Jaxson ‘Orion’ Carter, and twenty year old social media influencer Dakota Hunt’s story line. THE DESIRES THAT BURN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary .

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including Daddy-kink, Dom / sub and graphic violence, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers. The author includes a list of TW in the book.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Orion and Dakota) THE DESIRES THAT BURN follows in the wake of the abduction of our story line heroine. Dakota Hunt is a social media influencer but her naivety is about to place her in the direct line of fire. Believing she has been invited to an exclusive party, our heroine’s ongoing naivety is a bitter pill to swallow. Assigned to rescue our story line heroine from a sex trafficking ring, Obsidian Knight Jaxson ‘Orion’ Carter finds himself on the defensive when he discovers Dakota’s connections to the Obsidian Knights, and his unwanted attraction to a much younger woman who is everything our hero needs and more. What ensues is the building but unconventional daddy/baby girl , Dom/sub relationship between Dakota and Orion, and the potential fall-out as Orion believes himself unworthy of love, and their time together comes to a close.

The world building is detailed and complex as the Obsidian Knights including Mercer and Smith push the proverbial buttons of our story line hero .Orion is a bit of a lone wolf, a rogue with a dark past, but a man who is struggling with his place in the Society. Obedience is rare, and his need to protect Dakota is in opposition to the orders from the people at the top.

The relationship between Dakota and Orion begins as a rescue but a rescue that becomes more dangerous with every move. A pretend Dom/sub relationship in an effort to escape becomes the catalyst that catches the eye of the people in charge.The $ex scenes are erotic, provocative and controversial including Daddy kink, Dom/sub, questionable consent

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including fellow Knights Mercer and Smith, Dakota’s friend Harley, as well as a number of deviant billionaires and businessmen. The requisite evil has many faces.

THE DESIRES THAT BURN is a dark, dramatic and intense story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, violence and aggression, acceptance and love. The premise is gritty and raw; the alternative romance is contentious ; the characters are desperate and charismatic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one THE SECRETS THAT KILL

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Keep reading for a look inside The Desires That Burn!

I rise slowly, and then I look up.
It’s him. The man who caught my attention on the deck. Up close, he’s older than I thought… or maybe it’s his eyes that are old, like they’ve lived through different lifetimes and personally visited hell. They’re eyes that have stories most don’t want to know, but for some odd reason, I do.
For the first time I wish my talents lay in paint and brush rather than the ability to turn found objects into art.
“I thought I was alone,” I say, the words tumbling from my lips. “I’m Dakota.”
He doesn’t answer. His intense, hard gaze moves over me like he’s grazing my skin. He’s so tall, and I’m not exactly short at five foot seven, but somehow, I feel like I’m barely a foot off the ground. I swallow hard as he moves closer, reaching over the polished wood of the bar for a bottle of rum.
And though he doesn’t touch me, the whisper of air on my bare arm tingles like he licked my skin.
He opens the bottle and silently, I hand him a glass. The clear liquid fills the glass. Then he nods to the one in my hand.
“Jesus,” he mutters. The voice low, rough like gravel, the kind of voice I didn’t know I liked, the kind of voice that finds its way down deep into my soul. “Are you even old enough to fucking drink?”
“Most men here try to ply with me booze, not talk me out of it.” Another mess of words. I shrug. “Age is just a number.”
He raises a brow. I edge out from behind the bar, aware I’m wearing a skimpy bikini Amelia insisted on giving to me. It came in a cute little lacquered bag with the tags still on it, tags she ripped off before I could see the cost. I’m wearing a white gauze lounge top over the suit, and I suddenly feel completely underdressed, like I’ve just stepped into a boudoir.
The man doesn’t comment on it; he doesn’t have to. The dark light in his eyes pulls me to him, makes me want to ask what I should wear because the expression is one of both desire and disapproval. I’m a little shocked by my reaction to him, by my wanting to please him. That’s new.
I start to down my drink when he grabs my wrist.
It’s like the singe of a wild flame, that touch. His hand is huge, tattooed with something that covers the top completely and disappears up his wrist and into his shirt. From the quick glimpse, I think it’s a snarling, fang-baring snake or dragon or beast.
There are thick silver rings on his fingers. The one on his middle finger has a square black stone in the center, and the one on his thumb is inscribed. It doesn’t look like it should belong, but it does, the way he doesn’t seem to fit the vibe on the yacht, yet somehow… he makes it all his own.
“Do you like that? Men ogling, plying you with drinks?”
I swallow. He’s twisting the meaning of the words into something dirty, and a low throb of want that connects to an innate need to suddenly please undulates through me. Because I want to say I’m not the kind of girl he implies that I am.
“I just meant I can drink if I want.” I glare, my words laced with annoyance.
The slightly sullen note hangs in the air, and the look on his face is stern, almost savage, like a predator who needs to eat.
I’m not sure I like him.
But he’s beyond hot.
“You don’t need a drink,” he says.
“Neither do you.”
That earns a very slight smile. “But, little girl, I’m of age.”
Because I’ve had a couple of drinks on an empty stomach, and the courage of booze races through my veins, heating them, I slide a hand up over his chest and oh my God, it is a wall of solid, ripped muscle. I edge closer and press against him.
“I’m not a little girl, I’m not sixteen. In fact…” I don’t have to like him to flirt or to give in to the need to touch that pulsates through me. Test the boundaries. After all, there’s no one here to judge. Except for him. “I’m old enough.”
“I see.” His eyes glitter and then he moves. Fast.
My drink is pulled from my hand and set down, and then I’m flush against him, sandwiched between him and the wall.
He leans in, his tongue tracing the skin of my throat, and then he lifts his head. I’m boneless, a vortex of need that sucks all attention right to the spot where his tongue grazed.
A throbbing sensation hums between my thighs.
And I can barely breathe.
“Be very careful who you say that to,” he says. “Because a lot of the people on this overgrown boat won’t fucking stop there.”
“And you?” I whisper. “Where will you stop?”
“Playing with fire will get you the fuck burned.” He slides a large roughened palm against my cheek.
The heat of his touch burns deliciously deep.
The man licks me again, stopping at my pulse point. He sucks, making a moan slip from my lips.
He narrows his eyes at me, his lips twisting.
“Go. Now. Before…” He releases me and steps back, fire raging in his heavy gaze. “Something happens.”
I suck in a breath, my shoulders trembling. Then I cross the room, twist the door handle, and run like hell just as he commanded me to.

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Kristen Luciani is a USA Today bestselling author of steamy and suspense-filled romance. She’s addicted to kickboxing, Starburst jelly beans, and swooning over dark, broken anti-heroes. Kristen is happily married to her own real-life hero of over 20 years. In addition to penning spicy stories, she also has a part-time job as her three kids’ personal Uber driver, which she manages to successfully juggle along with her other tasks: laundry, cleaning, laundry, cooking, laundry, and caring for her adorable Boston Terrier puppy.

Mafia romance is her passion…and her poison.

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