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October 30, 2021 by Tina Williams

RELEASE BLITZ – Blood Bound (Dinero de Sangre #3), by Lana Sky

#DarkRomance #CartelRomance #MafiaRomance

Release Date: October 30^th

BLURB

In this twisted dark cartel romance, revenge and hate collide with the past…

Hunted by a dangerous enemy, Ada Pavalos is forced to place her faith—and her life—in the hands of the man who has been holding her captive in his own twisted bid for revenge.

But the truce they’ve forged between them is fragile, impeded by Ada’s struggle to trust where Domino’s loyalties lie—because what if the deadliest threat isn’t Jaguar after all?

What if it’s Domino who will destroy her in the end?

All Retailers ➜ https://books2read.com/DDS-BloodBound

Read Book One: All Retailers ➜ https://books2read.com/BloodMoney

#NewRelease #DarkCartelRomance #NewSeries #LanaSky #TwistedRomance #RevengeAndHate #NeedToReadItNow #ReadMoreRomance #Bookstagram #RomanceBookAddict #Romancelandia #BookWorm #BookObsessed #RomanceBooks #SteamyReads⁠ #DarkRomance

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lana Sky is a reclusive writer in the United States who spends most of her time daydreaming about complex male characters and parenting her Cockapoo Joey. She writes dark, twisted romance across several genres. Her titles include everything from mafia romance to vampires.

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October 30, 2021 by Tina Williams

REVIEW – Blood Bound, Dinero de Sangre book 3, by Lana Sky

#DarkRomance #CartelRomance #MafiaRomance

Blurb

In this twisted dark cartel romance, revenge and hate collide with the past…

Hunted by a dangerous enemy, Ada Pavalos is forced to place her faith—and her life—in the hands of the man who has been holding her captive in his own twisted bid for revenge.

But the truce they’ve forged between them is fragile, impeded by Ada’s struggle to trust where Domino’s loyalties lie—because what if the deadliest threat isn’t Jaguar after all?

What if it’s Domino who will destroy her in the end?

My Review

Dark and Gripping – 5 DARK stars!

After reeling from events at the end of the previous book Blood Ties, I was so pleased to get my hands on this instalment. Once again, Lana Sky has penned a fast-paced, intensely dark and emotional read full of nail-biting suspense, violence and sizzling sex scenes. It is though, essential to read the series in order to appreciate the complex plot and characters.

In Blood Bound, Ada Maria and Domino are on the run, having escaped Jaguar. Yet has Ada rejected one monster only to be in the clutches of another, Domino, a man who she thought she once knew but has been far from a knight in shining armour? Caught between two dangerous and deadly men, just who can Ada Maria trust? The world she finds herself in is so far removed from the lap of luxury she was used to before she was so cruelly taken from it and she has been reduced to a commodity. The couple are up against enemies at every turn and trust is a moot point.

I enjoyed how secrets from Ada’s past concerning her parents, Domino’s sister and Domino himself are slowly revealed to Ada and the reader. The author’s skills at plotting an addictive read are showcased to full in this novel which is full of unexpected twists and turns. The complex plotline was always at least one step ahead of the reader and I could not guess where the story was going. Also, for much of the book I could not fathom whether Domino would be Ada’s saviour or play a role in her eventual destruction, once his own goals were reached. Only Domino, the master manipulator, seemed to be ahead of the game and even he, at times, was struggling against his many adversaries.

Although Ada Maria is as vulnerable as ever in this book, I loved how she is determined to hold her own with Domino and admired how she held up against all that she endures. Many questions are answered during the read, including the true motivations behind Domino’s actions. I was hugely entertained throughout this thrilling read and am pleased that there are more books to come in the same world.

The book and the series is a perfect fit for lovers of dark romance, particularly those who enjoy reads set in the world of organised crime.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note, a copy of this book was given to me by the author and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

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May 23, 2021 by Tina Williams

ARC REVIEW – Goodnight, Sinners (Sinner’s Empire, book 3)

#MafiaRomance

Blurb

Goodnight, Sinners is the third and final book in International Bestselling Author Nikita Slater’s mafia romance Sinner’s Empire Trilogy.
A mafia war.
A fallen empire.
A family destroyed and scattered.
Jozef and Shaun must pick up the pieces and rise to the top of a criminal empire together. If they fail, they will lose everything.
Shaun must fight for her beliefs and her career if she’s going to be happy as a mob wife.
Jozef is on a precipice. One wrong step could mean the end of his rise to power, his wife and even his life.
Together they will show the world a new Koba empire, built from the ashes of destruction and put back together with the strength of their love.

My Review – 5 stars

Emotional and action-packed

I have loved every instalment in this series and the third and final book in Shaun and Jozef’s story is by far no exception. The journey to their HEA, which takes place within the world of organised crime, is not an easy one as it is full of danger, deception and drama, but it does make for a fantastic emotional and action-packed read.

The couple are clearly very much in love with one another and whilst Jozef will do anything to keep Shaun safe, his actions sometimes go against what she wants and needs, given she is such a strong and independent woman. I enjoyed reading how they learned to open up to each other, working to resolve their differences and growing as a couple, although it was not always an easy ride in the dangerous world they live in. The tension between Shaun, a surgeon dedicated to saving lives, and Jozef for whom violence and killing has been a way of life, was palpable and kudos to the author for sharing their story with us in such a realistic and sensitive manner.

The surprises and plot twists in this instalment just kept coming, events drawing together the many threads woven into earlier books. At times I was only just recovering from one revelation when I was hit with another. I loved how the author developed a number of secondary characters, weaving parts of their stories into Shaun and Jozef’s romance, and I hope that they will feature in future books.

Recommended to lovers of mafia romance and also romantic suspense.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note that a copy of this book was given to me by the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

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March 11, 2021 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ A Silent Reckoning, by Nikita Slater

#MafiaRomance

Blurb

A Silent Reckoning is the second book in International Bestselling Author Nikita Slater’s mafia romance Sinner’s Empire Trilogy.

One year.

Jozef is ready to reclaim the woman who got away from him and start their lives together. He has watched, he has waited and now he will build his empire with his woman at his side.

One year.

Shaun never thought she’d see him again. The man who ripped her life into little pieces and left her to deal with the shambles. Now he’s back and he’s determined to pick up where they left off.

A Silent Reckoning is the second book in the Sinner’s Empire Series. The third book will release on May 18, 2021. NOTE: A Silent Reckoning contains sensitive subject matter, with some scenes containing elements of PTSD and panic attacks, please read with caution.

My Review

Steamy and Action-Packed – 5 Stars

This is the second book in the Sinner’s Empire Trilogy and to fully appreciate the story and the dynamics between the characters it is recommended you read the series in order.

After the shocking ending of the first instalment Sin of Silence, I was so grateful that I didn’t have to wait too long for its release. I enjoyed that this book jumped almost immediately back into the action, uniting the central couple Jozef and Shaun. I just love how the author manages to create two individuals that are so far apart when it comes to their personalities and world view, but at the same time are just so right for each other. It is this tension between them and how it plays out that kept me eagerly turning the pages.

Although the couple’s love for one another is a certainty, it is how Shaun in particular can adapt to life within Jozef’s criminal organisation that is hugely problematic. I loved how he strives to understand Shaun’s point of view and how she is resolute in rebuilding her sense of control as much as possible. Alongside the the development of their complex and often combustible relationship, the danger and brutality of Jozef’s chosen career is never far away. There are also a number of other plot lines involving key figures from their respective families which added to the depth and breadth of the central plot and impacted on it. I was also gripped throughout with the question of Shaun’s safety, now that she has been forced to return to Prague.

The pace of the book accelerates from an already fast start as these plot points play out. The read is not short on emotion and steam as well as action scenes, tear jerking moments and a number of unexpected revelations.

Highly recommended to lovers of Mafia romance.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note a copy of this book was given to me by the author for a fair and honest review.

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February 16, 2021 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Dirty Dealings, A Zeta Cartel novel, Book 3, by A J Adams

#MafiaRomance #Crime

Blurb

Warm-hearted Natalia Truelove will do anything for family, so when her ex-father-in-law is sent to prison, she shelves her restaurant plans and manages the family pub. But when she runs foul of a local gangster, and her niece is targeted, the gloves are off. As the police won’t help, Nats embarks on a lethal game: blackmailing the Zeta Cartel’s top hit man to do her bidding.

Enrique ‘Quique’ Ramas is having a bad time. Back in Mexico his marriage has fallen apart and his wife has made him a laughing stock by cheating on him. Now he’s in London and out of his depth with a complex commercial deal. To make things worse, Natalia Truelove, a chef and pub manager, is blackmailing him. Quique is ready to commit murder and he’s pretty sure who his first victim will be.

Dirty Dealings is an enthralling tale of deceit, murder, cartel violence and finding love in the darkest of times. It is the third Zeta Cartel novel, and can be read as a standalone.

My Review

One crazy cartel read – loved it! 5 stars

I just inhaled this crazy cartel read and I found it impossible to put down. If you are a fan of this genre and alpha heroes who develop a soft spot for strong and feisty heroines with a vulnerable side, than you too will love this enemies to lovers romance. It has oodles of suspense and action, great banter and sexual tension between the main couple and some super sexy scenes. Although it does contain reference to adult themes, it is not as dark as the preceding books in the author’s Zeta cartel series (a series I thoroughly recommend) and can be read as a standalone.

Still reeling after his wife’s antics back home in Mexico, Quique does not need a woman complicating his life, especially one such as Natalia who has the cheek to blackmail him. I really felt for him at what he had been through with his marriage, although he is certainly no pushover and is a man who is not to be messed with when it comes to Cartel business. As for Natalia, I adored her feisty nature and that she is not afraid to stand toe to toe with (or anyone else) to protect her dysfunctional family.

The couple are just so perfect for each other, although Natalia sees her future very much in London and Quique in Mexico. I hugely enjoyed their journey an also getting the chance to meet others from previous books such as Arturo and Kyle. The read is full of British slang and humour which gives it a fantastic sense of place and amidst the ensuing violence and general mayhem there are also some humorous moments.

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February 10, 2021 by Tina Williams

*RELEASE BLITZ plus REVIEW: Queen of Thorns: A Dark Mafia Romance: War of Roses Universe (Mice and Men Book 2), by Lana Sky

#DarkRomance #MafiaRomance

Release Date: February 10, 2021

Cover Design by: https://killastrationz.com

Blurb

With all hope of the peace shattered beyond redemption, Donatello Vanici is waging his most violent, bloody war yet. And caught in the heart of the carnage is Willow Stepanova, the adopted daughter of his dangerous enemy and the girl who once adored him to the depths of her soul. Torn between her loyalty to her family and her volatile connection to Donatello, Willow quickly realizes that it’s not just her life at stake in this vicious battle… But what will be left of her in the end? Mice and Men is a new standalone series in the War of Roses Universe. A new spin-off series in the War of Roses Universe. Mice and Men is a standalone series. Queen of Thorns is book two in Mice and Men. Ruthless King needs to be enjoyed before reading Queen of Thorns. Queen of Thorns ends in a cliffhanger to be continued in book three, Shattered Throne (TBR).

My Review

An Explosive Read ~ 5 stars

This turbulent read follows on from the shocking events in Ruthless King. Donatello Vianci is one of the most crazy characters this author has created to date and it is a wild, white- knuckle ride! We witness Donatello descending ever further into madness, driven by a combination of visceral grief and guilt, and Willow is compelled to tread a fine line to save her own life and that of others. I loved that by the end of the book it is clear to Donatello, the reader and Willow herself that she is far from a willing victim – she truly is the Queen of Thorns as the title suggests and is not a mere pawn. The read is a deeply psychological one and I was swept into a maelstrom of violence and unpredictable emotions of Donatello Vianci, a tragic and mercurial figure. The connection between him and Willow goes way back and she feels inextricably tied to him, whilst fully cognisant of the danger he represents. Their chemistry is a constant throughout the novel and I enjoyed that Willow, despite Donatello’s warnings, cannot resist pressing his buttons, challenging him to his breaking point. I enjoyed meeting Misha again and am dying to find out more about Evgeni, whose voice the author introduces us to. The next instalment cannot come soon enough as I am itching to find out what happens next between Willow and Donatello and whether they will be each other’s destruction or salvation, not to mention the many unanswered questions relating to the wider story arc and the characters within it. If you love dark mafia reads with the most tortured of characters you will love this and other books within the series. Reviewed by Tina Williams Please note, a copy of this book was given to me by the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

Other Books in the Series

Ruthless King: A Dark Mafia Romance: War of Roses Universe: (Mice and Men Book 1). Released: October 27^th, 2020. Shattered Throne: A Dark Mafia Romance: War of Roses Universe: (Mice and Men Book 3). Release Date: TBD.

Author Info: Lana Sky

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January 8, 2021 by Tina Williams

COVER REVEAL ~ Queen of Thorns: A Dark Mafia Romance: War of Roses Universe: (Mice and Men Book 2), by Lana Sky

Queen of Thorns: A Dark Mafia Romance: War of Roses Universe: (Mice and Men Book 2)

Release Date: February 10, 2021

Cover Design by: https://killastrationz.com

Blurb

With all hope of the peace shattered beyond redemption, Donatello Vanici is waging his most violent, bloody war yet.

And caught in the heart of the carnage is Willow Stepanova, the adopted daughter of his dangerous enemy and the girl who once adored him to the depths of her soul.

Torn between her loyalty to her family and her volatile connection to Donatello, Willow quickly realizes that it’s not just her life at stake in this vicious battle…

But what will be left of her in the end?

Series: A new spin-off series in the War of Roses Universe. Mice and Men is a standalone series. Queen of Thorns is book two in Mice and Men. Ruthless King needs to be enjoyed before reading Queen of Thorns. Queen of Thorns ends in a cliffhanger to be continued in book three, Shattered Throne.

Released: October 27^th, 2020

Cover Design by: https://killastrationz.com

Blurb

After a decade spent claiming a throne for himself in the seething violence of the criminal underbelly, all Donatello Vanici craves now is peace.

Only a union forged between his heir and the most powerful mafiya family in existence could ever be strong enough to end the bloodshed for good, but the Stepanov head resists his overtures at every turn…

Until tragedy strikes, and forces Donatello’s hand.

Haunted by a past that dogs her every thought, Willow Stepanov will do anything for the man who adopted her—until a chance encounter with the enemy lands her right in the middle of a dangerous power struggle and a war that grows more violent and vicious each day.

But it’s not just her future her captor holds hostage.

He is a man with nothing left to lose—while she may just lose everything.

Her life, her family, and her heart…

Ruthless King: Teaser

Cold, his eyes rake over me. From my scalp, down to my heaving chest. His jaw twitches, his breathing audibly unsteady. Heavy. Rasping.

“You can’t be her…” To prove it, he brushes the thumb of his free hand down the length of my cheek. Did he ever stop to picture how his little _____ might look seven years after his betrayal? Did he imagine some weak, broken, mournful creature?

Anyone but me. I am not broken, holding his gaze even as tears blur my vision. I am not some sniffling little victim.

Shattered Throne: A Dark Mafia Romance: War of Roses Universe: (Mice and Men Book 3)

Release Date: TBD

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December 30, 2020 by Tina Williams

ARC REVIEW ~ Sin of Silence (Sinner’s Empire Book 1), by Nikita Slater

#MafiaRomance #EnemiestoLovers #RomanticSuspense

Blurb

Immerse yourself in a Sinner’s Empire with International Bestselling Author, Nikita Slater’s, brand new mafia romance trilogy.

Loyalty. Pride. Family.

These are the only values that matter.

Jozef is both nephew and enforcer to the Koba crime family. He is ruthless, brutal and completely loyal to his family. Shaun is a doctor working in the Ukraine with Doctors Without Borders. She’s logical, kind and honest. Shaun has been trained on how to deal with hostage situations, but nothing prepares her for Jozef or the life he’s forcing her into.

From the operating room to an opulent glittering ballroom and a forced engagement, Shaun is wildly out of her depth. Every step she takes is monitored and the man who kidnapped her watches her like a feral dog preparing to strike.

Caught in a deadly plight, Shaun has no choice but to give her heart to a killer or become another victim of organized crime.

Sin of Silence is the first of three books in the Sinner’s Empire Series. The second book will release on February 27th, 2021 and the third book will release in Spring 2021. NOTE: Sin of Silence contains sensitive subject matter, with some scenes containing elements of PTSD and panic attacks, please read with caution.

My Review

Amazing mafia romance ~ 5 stars

I absolutely loved Sin of Silence, the new Romantic Suspense from Nikita Slater. It is a super start to a new series and I was hooked on the premise of the book as soon as I had read the blurb and glued to my Kindle throughout. Mafia romances are amongst my favourite reads and this is a powerful read, containing a strong, principled heroine and a brute of an anti-hero.

After her abduction by mafia enforcer Josef, the heroine Shaun is catapulted into a world of wealth and excess funded by organised crime. The author does an excellent job of describing the brutality of the kidnap and how Shaun and Josef respond to the evolving attraction between them. There is plenty of tension between Shaun and Josef, as well as other members of the Koba family and the lovemaking scenes between the main couple sizzle.

The couple come from two very different worlds: Shaun is dedicated to saving lives and Josef to extinguishing them in his work for his Koba family, to which he owes his loyalty. I loved how despite this they are thrown together in an impossible situation – a forced engagement. I was left in suspense, wondering whether or not their mutual attraction and growing connection could be their salvation or their undoing. In particular can Shaun survive in such a dangerous world and how can she cope with her growing attraction to a killer?

I was glad that he author did not sugar coat the lives lead by those involved in organised crime: the book does contain scenes of violence/threats of violence and elements of PTSD. This addictive and realistic read ends on a cliffhanger – the end just about killed me and I am itching to read the next instalment!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note, an ARC of the book was given to me by the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

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