Tag Archives: mafia

EMPEROR OF RAGE (Memento Mori 2) by Jagger Cole- review tour

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EMPEROR OF RAGE (Memento Mori 2) by Jagger Cole- review tour

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Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3MrP9wx

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 17, 2024

I’m trapped by a beautiful psychopath.
A devil with a soul as black as his heart.
Mal Ulstäd is seductive brutality wrapped in sinister allure.
And he knows what I did.
He knows my family destroyed his.
Now he won’t stop, no matter how fast or how far I run.
They say fairytales are just pretend.
But monsters?
Those are real.
And they never, ever let go…

•••••

REVIEW: EMPEROR OF RAGE is the second instalment in Jagger Cole’s contemporary, adult MEMENTO MORI dark, erotic, Mafia romance series set in the author’s Venomous Gods world. This is Mal Ulstad, and twenty-six year old IT hacker Freya Holm’s story line. EMPEROR OF RAGE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for cohesion. Most of the events of Emperor of Rage cross over with, and run parallel to the events of book one Emperor of Wrath.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise including ‘consensual non-consent’, and graphic violence, there WILL BE triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Freya and Mal) EMPEROR OF RAGE focuses on the enemies to lovers relationship between Mal Ulstad, and twenty-six year old IT hacker Freya Holm. Freya Holm was looking for some dark web information for Kir Nikolayev but stumbling into what she thought was a vacant building was about to change her life forever. Having witnessed the murder of several men, Freya finds herself at the mercy of the killer, a man with connections to the darkest of the dark. Enter Mal Ulstad who is about to control every aspect of our heroine’s life but the past refuses to go quietly and Mal will discover a connection between Freya, her boss and mentor Kir, and the life he once knew. As Mal holds the power in his relationship with Freya, someone else is taking aim at our story line couple.

The world building is multi-layered and intricate as the events of the previous story line become a significant part of the current timeline. Mal Ulstad is desperate to uncover the truth about our story line heroine, a truth that will set Mal on a journey of revenge and pain.

The relationship between Mal and Freya begins as enemies when Freya witnesses Mal killing several men with ties to the Russian Bratva, killings Mal invokes in vengeance for sins of the past. Controlling Freya, and discovering the truth, sets a plan into motion that will threaten the tentative peace between our story line couple, pushing Freya out of his life and into the world that is attempting to destroy our story line hero. The $ex scenes are aggressive, forceful and not without some scenes of questionable consent. As the series progresses, the heroes’ aggression and anger towards the heroine, is not without some controversy and dubious behavior.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of dynamic, interesting and powerful secondary and supporting characters including Freya’s friends Damian Nikilayev, Annika and Kenzo (Emperor of Wrath); their father-figure and head of the Nikolayev Bratva Kir Nikolayev; Kenzo’s siblings Takeshi and Hana.

EMPEROR OF RAGE is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, power and control, murder and retribution, family and relationships, acceptance and love. Like the first instalment, the character driven premise is dark, dramatic and raw; the romance is provocative but struggles with the early control and behavior of a man bent on revenge; the characters are broken, embattled and charismatic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one EMPEROR OF WRATH

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

A reader first and foremost, Jagger Cole cut his romance writing teeth penning various fan-fiction stories years ago. After deciding to hang up his writing boots, Jagger worked in advertising pretending to be Don Draper. It worked enough to convince a woman way out of his league to marry him, though, which is a total win.

Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.

When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside–rain or shine.

You can find all of his books at www.jaggercolewrites.com

Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8rld1ik3sd

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WHEN KINGS FALL ( O’Sullivan’s brides 3) by Vi Carter-review

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WHEN KINGS FALL ( O’Sullivan’s brides 3) by Vi Carter-review

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 14, 2024

No King can reign forever but I will try.
Finally, as the head of the O’Sullivan Family, the enterprise is once again running like a well-oiled machine. The gears grind and scrape through Ireland and beyond. We are at the height of our power.
But vengeance whispers in my ear.
Two Brides remain: Niamh, docile and loyal, and Selene, clever and reckless.
Amira has slipped through my fingers. Fingers that are itching to close around the throat of our enemies.
As my Brides get closer to the truth of Sophia Hughes’ death, Victor has voiced his warning. That warning has come in the form of a beast just as dangerous as me. He is trained. He is vicious.
The game of chess has reached its final stage.
And I plan on smashing the board.
When Kings Fall is the third and final installment of Diarmuid O’Sullivan’s story in the chaotic world of the Hands of Kings. Reader discretion is advised. There is spice. There is blood. There is retribution.

•••••

REVIEW: WHEN KINGS FALL is the third instalment in Vi Carter’s contemporary, adult THE O’SULLVAN BRIDES dark, erotic, romance series focusing on Irish Mafia Don / King and assassin Diarmuid O’Sullivan, and his three virgin brides Selene, Naimh Connolly, and Amira Reardon. WHEN KINGS FALL should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book two-WHEN KINGS BEND. If you have not read the previous instalments , there may be spoilers in my review.

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

SOME BACKGROUND: The Kings is a cult-like organization with the ability to replace and control CEOs, Presidents and Popes, and Diarmuid is about to rise to the position he has always wanted in the face of the death of his uncle Andrew O’Sullivan but family secrets and demons are threatening from the past. Gifted with three virgin brides by the Kings Organization, Diarmuid is about to come face to face with his future, three women as different as any three woman could be, but three women who could be the downfall of some powerful men.

Told from four first person perspectives (Diarmuid, Selene, Naimh, Amira) WHEN KINGS FALL continues to focus on the tempestuous relationship between Diarmuid and the three woman he was ‘gifted’ for a bride. Amira, having suffered at the hands of Diarmuid’s cousin Wolfe, finds redemption for herself and the women she will rescue; Naimh continues to focus on never quite being enough but a woman who is determined to help Selene uncover the truth. Betrayal from within threatens the sanctity of not only the Kings but Diarmuid’s house, betrayal that will come at a cost. Selene is the woman who has fallen for a man, a man who has fallen in return.

The world building follows the three women in Diarmuid’s life: Naimh is the pawn in her father’s games, a pawn who is desperate to protect her sister Ella: Amira is the target of a psychotic mind, a woman who is fighting for her freedom and the freedom of others; Selene is the heart of the trio, and the heart of the Mafia King Diarmuid O’Sullivan but all three women are searching for the truth, avenging the death of a former bride.

The relationship between Diarmuid and his ‘brides’ is complicated and different for each woman. Amira has chosen to focus elsewhere leaving her ‘sister’ brides to fight for a man who has found himself in a precarious position. Naimh has been relegated to second, number two, and with it come the ability to often come and go as she pleases; Selene has fallen for her monster, a man who will die trying to save the life of the woman he loves.

Once again, the secondary and supporting characters include Diarmuid’s brother Ronan and Lorcan O’Connor; the head of the Hand of Kings Victor Maddigan, fisherman Ben Fleming and Father Isaac. The requisite evil has many faces.

WHEN KINGS FALL is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, power and control, murder and justice, acceptance and love. The premise is dark, gritty and dramatic; the romance is provocative ; the characters are desperate and broken. WHEN KINGS FALL ends on a happily ever after-for now.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
When Kings Rise
When Kings Bend

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

VI CARTER: When Vi Carter isn’t writing contemporary & dark romance books, that feature the mafia, are filled with suspense, and take you on a fast paced ride, you can find her reading her favorite authors, baking, taking photos or watching Netflix.

Married with two children, Vi divides her time between motherhood and all the other hats she wears as an Author.

She has declared herself a coffee & chocolate addict! Do not judge

AUTHOR LINKS

Newsletter and FREE book / Website / Facebook/Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub / Goodreads Pinterest

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VOWS IN VIOLENCE ( Sons of the Mafia 5) by Vi Carter & ER Whyte

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VOWS IN VIOLENCE ( Sons of the Mafia 5) by Vi Carter & ER Whyte-review

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 29, 2024

The Commission has sent Azrael, their deadliest assassins, not knowing that a monster already prowls the streets of New York City.

Ivan Romanov.

After years of waiting patiently in the shadows, I’ve finally come to claim what is mine. And that prize is Viviana Valachi, the youngest daughter of the Valachi Don. She is timid and obedient, everything her father raised her to be. But there is a fire in those Valachi eyes that is matched only by her brother, whom I hold captive.

Azrael is on the move. No place or person is safe, even those I keep in golden cages. We must pay for the sins of our fathers—this is the one lesson we have learned in the Five Families. Angel Valachi has thrown our world into chaos, and I have inherited the duty of restoring order in the only way I know how.

Sin pays for sin. Blood must pay for blood.

I didn’t expect my pet to work herself into my body, mind, and soul. As much as I want to feast on the spoils and carnage of this war, I can feel the leash she is wrapping around my throat.

As much as I want to fight it, I find myself captivated by her guidance.
The hunt is on, and none shall sleep for a monster is on the loose.

•••••••••

REVIEW: VOWS IN VIOLENCE is the fifth and final instalment in the contemporary, adult SONS OF THE MAFIA dark, erotic, Mafia romance series co-authored by Vi Carter and ER Whyte. This is Ivan Romanov, and Viviana Valachi’s story line. VOWS IN VIOLENCE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion.

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

If you have not read the previous instalments, there may be spoilers in my review.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Ivan and Viviana) VOWS IN VIOLENCE follows the forced marriage between our story line couple. Ivan Romanov is currently holding Viviana’s brother Angel Valachi a prisoner in his home, as well as our story line heroine. The Five Families, the ruling Mafia strongholds are in a tenuous state of peace but the Commission is determined to take down everyone at the top, forcing a war for power and control. The entity calling itself Azrael, assassins aka the angel of death, is taking aim at the people in charge including our story line couple. With Ivan on the outside, Vivi’s life is hanging by a precarious and proverbial thread, but with the help of the other Five Families, Ivan begins to target the betrayers including several people on the inside. Her brother now presumed dead, Vivi struggles between head and heard having fallen for the man who could destroy her heart.

The world building is detailed and thorough. Although Vivi’s marriage to Ivan is forced, an arranged marriage by her late father in the hope for more power, Vivi has resigned herself to a life with a man who may not be able to love in return. As the Five Families make plans to rescue our story line heroine, someone else is determined to kill them all.

The secondary and supporting characters are all powerful, brutal and dangerous. We are reintroduced to all of the previous story line couples whose own lives are threatened by the Commission orders and the assassins known as Azrael.

The relationship between Vivi and Ivan is an arranged marriage but Ivan doesn’t do love, and Vivi is determined to play the role of a Mafia wife. In the early stages of their relationship Vivi was a prisoner of the man with whom she would fall in love but a prisoner protected in a gilded cage. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

VOWS IN VIOLENCE is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is fast paced, dramatic, dark and intriguing; the romance is provocative and sensitive; the characters are desperate, flawed, and edgy.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Sins of the Mafia
Vengeance in Blood
Enemies in Ruin
Redemption in Cruelty
Mercy in Betrayal

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Haven’t started the series? The prequel novella-SINS OF THE MAFIA is FREE at these retailers: –>  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

VI CARTER: When Vi Carter isn’t writing contemporary & dark romance books, that feature the mafia, are filled with suspense, and take you on a fast paced ride, you can find her reading her favorite authors, baking, taking photos or watching Netflix.

Married with two children, Vi divides her time between motherhood and all the other hats she wears as an Author.

She has declared herself a coffee & chocolate addict! Do not judge

AUTHOR LINKS

Newsletter and FREE book / Website / Facebook/Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub / Goodreads

ER WHYTE: E.R. Whyte is a multi-genre author, writing contemporary and new adult romance under E.R. Whyte, reverse harem romance under Evie Rae, and sweet romance under Elle Rae Whyte. Although it would no doubt make life easier to simply choose a genre, she loves romance in all its forms too much to ever do that.

She’s a simple girl at heart, living in a teeny-tiny Virginia town and spending her time finding herself, catering to various fur babies, and indulging her reading, writing, and photography habits. She loves being alone, bananas foster, and Pepsi.

Whyte worked as a high school English teacher for around a decade before she decided she really wanted more time to devote to her family and other fun stuff. Now she thinks up new ways to make tacos on Tuesday, explores the Marvel universe with childish enthusiasm, and spends entirely too much time on the computer.
Life is good.

AUTHOR LINKS: Facebook/ TikTok

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THE TATTOO ARTIST (La Petite Mort 1) by Kassandra Marie Lopez

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THE TATTOO ARTIST (La Petite Mort 1) by Kassandra Marie Lopez-review

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 2, 2024

My whole life has been a lie.

I was sheltered and raised in a Catholic household. I was taught to dress a certain way.
Behave a certain way. Never having any free will of my own. But all my Catholic beliefs went out the window when I met him. I was only sixteen at the time.

Deimos…his name sounded so good coming out of my mouth. Rumors were spread that Deimos was just a myth that parents told their daughters to scare them into being obedient or else they would meet Deimos, the GOD of Terror and Dread. I was determined to prove his existence, but I never imagined that the truth would be even more dangerous than lies.

As I dove deeper into the mystery, things got more complicated when I met Alexander, the handsome tattoo artist. My feelings for him became more apparent. I never imagined I could love two people simultaneously. Could I trust my heart? Or would it lead me down a path of destruction? As the stakes increased and the dangers intensified, I had to make a choice: continue my search and risk everything to be with Deimos or lose my chance with Alexander.

•••••

REVIEW: THE TATTOO ARTIST is the first instalment in Kassandra Marie Lopez’ contemporary, adult LA PETITE MORT dark, erotic, Mafia, romance series. This is twenty-four year old, tattoo artist Alexander Hades, Deimos and eighteen year old, artist and student Quinn Connor’s story line.

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

Told from three first person perspectives (Alexander, Deimos, Quinn) using present day and memories from the past, THE TATTOO ARTIST follows the building relationship between Alexander and Quinn. Approximately two years earlier, sixteen year old, Catholic school girl, Quinn Connor witnessed the beat down and murder of man outside of her bedroom window. Believing the perpetrator Is the killer known as Deimos, our heroine begins to fantasize about the ‘God of Terror’, a man she would not see for close to another two years. Bored and struggling with a direction in life, Quinn would accompany her best friend Sophia to a tattoo appointment where she will come face to face with her future in the guise of Alexander Hades but all is not as it appears to be, as Alexander’s slow seduction of Quinn is offset by Quinn’s fantasies involving the myth, the killer, known as Deimos.

The world building is complex and multi-layered. Alexander Hades is an enigma; a tattoo artist, an MMA fighter, a killer and a member of the Greek Mafia controlled by the Hades family. Quinn Connor is a naïve, Catholic school girl; a part time librarian with aspirations to be an artist, a young woman whose entire life is predicated on a series of secrets and lies. Protected by Alexander, lusting after Deimos, Quinn finds herself spiralling as the truth is slowly revealed.

The relationship between Quinn and Alexander is a slow building romance as Alexander tenderly seduces the woman with whom he has fallen in love but Alexander has secrets, deep, dark and dangerous secrets that once revealed may destroy his relationship with our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.

We are introduced to Alexander’s brother: Aristotle and Sebastian: Quinn’s best friend Sophia Sutton; library employee Isaac; as well as Quinn’s ultra religious parents; her friend Owen Walsh, and several members of the Russian, Irish and Greek Mafia. The requisite evil has many familiar faces. There is some history between Sophia and Aristotle.

THE TATTOO ARTIST is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, obsession and madness, forgiveness, acceptance and love. The premise is dark, dramatic, twisty and intriguing; the romance is passionate and intoxicating; the characters are broken, disturbing, desperate and determined.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Social Media Links: Instagram/ Goodreads/ Facebook/ Amazon Author Page/

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Ravenous Kingpin (Kingpins of the Syndicate 4) by Eva Winners

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Ravenous Kingpin (Kingpins of the Syndicate 4) by Eva Winners-review & excerpt tour

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

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Add Ravenous Kingpin to Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/5465vxce

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 30, 2024

I’d traded my hand in marriage for his help so I’d save my seat at the Syndicate’s table.

Now, I had a secret husband.

Cold and calculating Killian Brennan Cullen.

The hottest man I’d ever met.

And the heir to the Irish Cullen mafia

He promised to be a gentleman by day. But it was the nights that worried me. In the dark of the night he was commanding, ruthless, and possessive.

The agreement was two years. He’d protect me and my position in the Syndicate.

But who would protect me from him?

••••

REVIEW:RAVENOUS KINGPIN is the fourth instalment in Eva Winners’ contemporary, adult KINGPINS OF THE SYNDICATE dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is Killian Cullen, and Emory DiLustros’ story line. RAVENOUS KINGPIN 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, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Killian and Emory) RAVENOUS KINGPIN focuses on the forced marriage and relationship between our story line couple. Approximately six years earlier, Killian and Emory had a one-night stand but Emory ghosted Killian, never to be seen again. Fast forward six years, Emory DiLustros, along with her ruthless father, is a founding member of the Syndicate, and as such controls a large portion of Nevada and Las Vegas territories but Emory lost more than her innocence six years earlier, and has been on the hunt to bring it home. Killian demands Emory’s hand in marriage but a life together means Emory must keep her secrets close to her heart. Meanwhile, a human trafficking ring is targeting women and children, and Emory is the latest target.

The world building follows the tumultuous relationship between Emory and Killian; the search for the lost; a human trafficking ring in Emory’s territory, and the culmination of lost and found.

The relationship between Emory and Killian is one of second chances, of a sorts. Six years earlier Killian fell in love with our story line heroine but Emory’s life imploded leaving her a strong and more deadly version of herself. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and powerful secondary and supporting characters many of whom we met in the previous story lines. From the Russian Bratva, Italian Mafia, South American Cartel and the Irish Mob, the power elite are determined to take back control.

RAVENOUS KINGPIN is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, obsession, acceptance and love. Once again, the premise is dark, dramatic and heart breaking; the romance is fated and seductive; the characters are broken, dynamic and powerful.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of SCANDALOUS KINGPIN

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“What the fuck are you doing here, Atticus?”

Killian’s cold voice sent chills down my spine even though it wasn’t directed at me. I’d dealt with my fair share of monsters, but my husband had a ruthless side to him that he hid behind his charming smile.

It probably blindsided people when he attacked; they’d never expect it from someone as beautiful as him.

“Emory and I have business to discuss,” Atticus drawled. I’d been buying time ever since our last encounter, ignoring his messages, hoping to find a solution and the location of the person I’d been looking for without his help.

But the old man was nothing if not persistent.

“Whatever you’ve got to say, now is not the time. And you’re trespassing,” Killian warned. “Tell me why I shouldn’t have my guards shoot you right now.”

“Because this business,” Atticus started, looking at me pointedly, “is the only thing standing between life and death.” He waved his hand nonchalantly. “Besides, they now work for me and the ones who refused are dead.”

Killian obviously thought him full of shit because he wasn’t moved. “My wife’s business is my business, so spit it out and be on your way.”

Dread coursed through me at the knowledge that I brought this dangerous man to our doorstep. I should have never made a deal with him, but desperate times called for desperate measures. And God, I was so fucking desperate.

“Atticus, this isn’t a good time,” I gritted, trying to keep my cool. I couldn’t let Killian learn my secret. Not now.

My heart raced as I watched Killian’s cold gaze lock on the man who held the key to the only thing I cared about.

Atticus’s eyes were on me, his lips lifting into a sick grin as he said, “My beautiful Emory. Time is of the essence if you want your answers.”

I wondered if Atticus was like my father, who had a way of bending the illusion of normality so that it forever stayed out of my grasp.

“What fucking answers?” Killian demanded.

Atticus ignored him. “Let me remind you of our deal: you give me a name, and I’ll give you yours along with the location. Two for one. See? Don’t ever say I’m not generous.”

“What the fuck is he talking about, Em?” Killian repeated.

“I waved my hand nonchalantly while my heart threatened to beat through my rib cage. “This guy’s lost his mind.”

Atticus chuckled as if I’d uttered the funniest joke, but there was little humor in his eyes as they studied me.

“Stop looking at her that way, or I’ll dig your eyeballs out of your skull,” Killian warned, his spine stiff, violence in his posture as he blocked me from the bastard’s view.

“This doesn’t concern you, Irishman,” Atticus stated calmly, batting away Killian’s threat. “Emory DiLustro should be grateful for my patience.”

“Her name is Emory Cullen and you better learn to use it,” Killian hissed, his eyes screaming murder. “My wife owes you nothing, and if you don’t get out of here, I’ll secure you a trip six feet under.”

Atticus’s nostrils flared, his gaze now on Killian. It would seem my husband’s reputation preceded him: Killian Cullen did not make empty threats.

Panic zinged through me as my thoughts whirled with a dozen what-ifs, but it was a moot point. I learned a long time ago that you had little say in the cards you were dealt.

I eyed my surroundings for a weapon before remembering Killian kept a gun hidden underneath the table in my foyer.

I took a small step back at the same time Atticus drew two guns, aiming them at my husband and me.

“Don’t move, Emory,” Atticus stated, his voice lethal. “Or you’ll be planning your husband’s funeral.” My movements halted and I leveled him with a glare. “Good girl,” he purred. “Now get back to your husband.”

“Don’t fucking move,” Killian said, his eyes still locked on the unwelcome visitor. “Stay exactly where you are, Em.”

“I was so fucking sick and tired of men telling me what to do. Yes, Killian had my best interests at heart, but I could protect myself. I survived two decades under one of the cruelest men in the Syndicate, for fuck’s sake. I deserved some credit.

“Let’s make this quick,” Atticus said with a twisted smirk, “so you two lovebirds can get back to professing your love for one another.”

I should never have trusted this asshole. My cousins and brother wouldn’t touch him with a ten-foot pole and would have advised against my dealings with him had I asked.

But I didn’t ask. Atticus was my ticket to get to her, and that was more important than my pride.

“Unless you want to talk about…” Atticus trailed off, and somehow I knew whatever he was about to say would change my world forever. “Do you want to talk about Amara? You could see her by this time tomorrow.”

Amara. Amara. Amara.

The shock rocked me to my core at finally learning her name. All these years of searching and I finally got that little piece of information that I should’ve had all along.

“Who in the fuck is Amara?” Killian’s voice startled me out of my stupor and my mind raced through a thousand answers.

“It’s now or never, Emory,” Atticus stated matter-of-factly. “Who matters more? Who do you love more? Your husband or…”

Eva Winners released her first novel Second Chance At Love in 2020 and has been writing feverishly ever since. She writes about everlasting romance for every century focusing on characters emotional development and always guarantees an HEA.

She loves yoga, wine and her kiddos. In her spare time, she seeks adventures either hiking through trails, yoga or exploring the beaches.

Writing books has always been her passion and she brings real life to the forefront in everything she writes about.

Deeply passionate characters and stories will draw you in and you’ll never want to leave.

Follow her on social media to stay up to date with all her new releases!

CONNECT WITH EVA WINNERS:

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THE SHADOW KING’S KISS (De Luca Empire 1) by Raven Reeves-review

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THE SHADOW KING’S KISS (De Luca Empire 1) by Raven Reeves-review

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 30, 2024

Nica

The De Luca name means power, wealth, and a darkness that chills me to the bone. They’re a viper’s nest, and my father was killed by their fangs. Now, I want revenge.
But then I see him. Elio De Luca. His sharp jawline, effortlessly tousled dark hair, and intense eyes pull me in, even though I know I should hate him. My heart races, and a flush creeps up my neck.
Is this really the same boy who used to build sandcastles with me and sneak me candy? The memory throws me off balance. How can my childhood friend now control an empire built on blood? His eyes meet mine—a flicker of recognition, then a cold mask. Is he playing games, or is there something left of the boy I knew beneath that ruthless facade?
Stepping into Elio’s world, a world I left behind as a child, could cost me more than just my heart—it might cost me my life.

Elio
The scent of cinnamon hits me, a ghost from a past I thought was long gone.
It’s Nica.
My gaze sweeps over her curves, and I can’t help but linger. Her long, dark hair frames a face that draws me in effortlessly. Her lips part, and I wonder how they would taste. Everything about her makes it impossible to look away.
Victoria Galli. My best friend—until she wasn’t. I remember her fiery spirit and that laugh that could chase away shadows. But now her eyes are filled with a fury I can’t decipher, and my heart tightens. She doesn’t belong here. Not in this world. My world.
Part of me wants to reach out, explain the darkness I’ve become. But will Nica only see the monster the rest of the world fears?

••••

REVIEW: THE SHADOW KING’S KISS is the first full-length instalment in Raven Reeves’ contemporary, adult DE LUCA EMPIRE dark, erotic, Mafia romance series. This is the new head of the De Luca empire, Elio De Luca, and twenty-six year old, Victoria ‘Nica’ Galli’s story line. There is a prequel novella available THE SHADOW KING’S TRUTH focusing on some of the background of our story line couple.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Elio and Nica) using present day and memories from the past, THE SHADOW KING’S KISS follows in the aftermath of the discover of Nica’s father. Matteo Galli worked for the De Luca Family but disappeared one year earlier. Believing the De Luca family had killed her father, Victoria Galli puts an ill conceived plan into action but finds herself a virtual prisoner of the man in charge. Enter Elio De Luca, her childhood best friend, and the man with whom Nica will fall in love. Someone is targeting Victoria Galli, and Elio is determined to protect her with his body and his heart but all is not well in the De Luca empire, and betrayal will come at a cost.

The world building is detailed revealing some of the earlier history between Nica and Elio. Best friends who grew up together under the shadow of the De Luca empire, Nica would eventually run from the life, and Elio was left to pick up the pieces of his broken heart.

The relationship between Elio and Nica is one of second chances, of a sorts. Friends to enemies to frenemies to lovers, Elio is determined to protect the woman he loves but when betrayal comes from within, everything begins to spiral out of control. Reconnecting with Victoria forces Elio to look towards a different future, a future on the run to protect them both. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.

The secondary and supporting characters are a mix of good and evil, dark and light. We are introduced to Don De Luca and his wife Maria; Elio’s brother Vinny; Don Mario Falcone and his daughter Sophia; FBI Agent Jackson, as well as an assortment of security and Mafia personnel.

THE SHADOW KING’S KISS is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, madness and murder, power and control, forgiveness and love. The premise is intriguing, dramatic and dark; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are determined, charismatic and animated. THE SHADOW KING’S KISS ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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TWILIGHT MASK by BB Hamel-review

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TWILIGHT MASK by BB Hamel-review

ebook only 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 7, 2024

“Take off your mask, little demon.
Show me everything.”

I first meet the masked man at an art gallery opening where he nearly drops me off a roof.

Now I can’t stop obsessing over his thrill-seeking games, and I fall hard for the way he makes me feel alive.

Except the man behind the mask is Marco Vitale, former Capo of my family’s greatest enemy. He’s back from the dead to get revenge for his fallen Don.

Marco’s gorgeous and brilliant, and we spend our nights hiding who we are and playing twisted games of sin and pleasure together.

Until we can’t stay in the shadows any longer, and all our truths and all our lies come out into the light.

My father ruined his life, and now he wants to ruin mine.

We’ll have to decide between family, revenge, lust, and honor.

And I’m not sure I’ll survive when my masked man takes what he wants.

••••••

REVIEW: TWILIGHT MASK is the first instalment in BB Hamel’s contemporary, adult, dark, erotic, Mafia romance series, a spin off set in the author’s Bianco Crime family world. This is twenty-eight year old, artist/sculptor Laura Bianco, and the former Capo of the Santoro Crime family Marco Vitale’s story line. TWILIGHT MASK can be read as a stand alone but for back story and history regarding Laura Bianco, I recommend reading the Bianco Crime family series.

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

Told from dual first person perspectives (Laura and Marco) TWILIGHT MASK follows the forbidden relationship between our story line couple. the Bianco Crime Family and the Santoro Crime family are at war; enemies in the wake of a fight for power, and the murder of several high ranking family members on both sides. Laura Bianco is a recluse; an talented artist whose family but especially her brother Don Simon Bianco is pushing Laura outside of her comfort zone with a series of of gallery displays and art sales but the push backfires when Laura comes face to face with her future at a masquerade art sale, where she will meet a man she only knows as the Jackal. Enter the former capo of the Santoro Crime family Marco Vitale, the man with whom Laura will fall in love. Marco’s obsession with Laura is dark and dangerous; their relationship hidden in dark rooms and secrets rendezvous, an obsession that will threaten everyone concerned. With revenge at the forefront of the Santoro war with the Bianco Crime family, Laura will be caught in the middle between family and love.

The world building follows the forbidden and highly sexual relationship between our story line couple, and the ongoing war between the Santoro and Bianco Crimes families. The Santoro family is amassing a contingent of supporters , families who have been attacked or targeted by the Bianco family, and in the, Marco must choose sides if he expects to continue his relationship with the woman he loves.

The relationship between Marco and Laura is one of the forbidden. Laura is unaware of Marco’s true identity, and in this, the titillation factor is palpable. For years Laura has locked herself away from the outside world but a little bit of freedom pushes Laura to cross a line of no return with her family’s enemy. Marco is a man on a mission-his need for Laura borders on obsession but blood will be shed, and Marco is caught in the middle. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense but I question Laura’s easy acceptance of Marco/Jackal in life under the circumstances and her over ten years of self-imposed seclusion.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters including the return of Laura’s brother Don Simon Bianco (Stolen Sin 2), Elena Bianco (Brutal Power 3), Davide Bianco (Cruel Tyrant 1), as well as the introduction of several crime lords, and Marco’s best friend Valentina Santoro.

TWILIGHT MASK is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, obsession and relationships, family and love. The character driven premise is dark, dramatic and impassioned; the romance is seductive; the characters are desperate, dynamic and charismatic .

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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MARRIED TO THE MAFIA (DeSalvo Mafia 4) by Rose Wulf -review

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MARRIED TO THE MAFIA (DeSalvo Mafia 4) by Rose Wulf-review

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

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 14, 2024

As far as Brandi Richardson was concerned, ‘family’ was a four-letter word. All hers had ever done was hurt her. So when her father sent her to work for Mikey De Salvo as a mole, she accepted the better-paying job—but not the rest. Her refusal to play his game meant she would be paying the consequence of his disappointment sooner than later.

At first, she was sure that was the explanation behind her new and highly dedicated stalker … but she was wrong.

When her stalker stepped up his game, leaving her bleeding and beaten on her bedroom floor, Brandi realized she had little choice but to run before he came back for round two.

Mikey De Salvo was a busy man. Operating a multi-faceted security company and maintaining the digital backbone of a mafia empire was not for the weak, or the easily overwhelmed. The last thing he needed was one more distraction—even if she was as brilliant as she was beautiful. So he kept his suspicious, yet undeniably gifted employee at arm’s length and under watchful eye.

When she showed up covered in bruises, visibly terrified and planning to run, he knew he couldn’t let her.

So he made her a counter-offer. Marriage, and all the protection and power that came with the De Salvo name.

•••••

REVIEW: MARRIED TO THE MAFIA Is the fourth instalment in Rose Wulf’s contemporary adult, DESALVO MAFIA erotic, Mafia romance series. This is youngest DeSalvo brother Michele ‘MIkey’ De Salvo, and IT specialist Brandi Richardson’ s story line. MARRIED TO THE MAFIA can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

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

Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Brandi and Mikey) MARRIED TO THE MAFIA follows the building relationship between our story line couple. Brandi Richardson is the daughter of Wesley Richardson, a man the DeSalvo brothers dislike and abhor but when Brandi is hired to work as an IT consultant for the DeSalvo Security firm, Mikey DeSalvo moves our heroine up to his floor in an effort to ferret out any possible espionage or spying but when Brandi shows up to work covered in bruises, one too many times, Mikey makes Brandi an effort she cannot refuse-a marriage of convenience to protect our heroine, and get his family off of his back. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Mikey and Brandi, and the fall-out as more than one enemy takes aim at our story line heroine.

The world building focuses on the hunt for the people taking aim at our story line heroine.From Vegas loan sharks to the Ink Spots street gang, no one is safe when Brandi constantly places her self in the directly line of fire, often TSTL, and in this, her need to be independent threatens the security Mikey put into place.

The relationship between Brandi and Mikey begins as boss and employee. Mikey struggles to keep his distance from our story line hero, and to do this, Mikey is reckless in his treatment of our story line heroine, and Brandi believes she may have traded one jailer for another. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.

The secondary and supporting characters are dynamic and daring. We are reintroduced to Romeo and GraceDante De Salvo and his wife Iris: Christiano and Felicity, their mother Eleanora, as well as several other security specialists, and enemies. The requisite evil has many faces.

MARRIED TO THE MAFIA is as story of power and control, secrets s a lies, betrayal and vengeance, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic and heart breaking; the romance is energetic and seductive; the characters are determined and dynamic.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of ASSISTANT TO THE MAFIA

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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