By: Ashley Elizabeth
Many thanks to Grey’s Promos for the ARC of this book!!
Leo and Scarlett knew each other since they were young. But 7 years ago, Scarlett’s dad took her away from Leo, his family, and the place she called home, the Alaire Estate. Leo got word that Scarlett was kidnapped and he and his family were determined to find her and they did, handcuffed to the floor of a room, in the dark, barely alive. Promising to keep her safe and to find the monster that did this to her, Leo and Scarlett marry in hopes to lure the monster out. The more Leo and his family try to find him, the more it seems like they never will. At the same time, Leo is protective of Scarlett. He tries to make her feel safe, tries to make her feel comfortable, and dotes on her. Will Leo and his family find Scarlett’s kidnapper before the kidnapper takes Scarlett again?
Wow. I was blown away by this book. Ashley Elizabeth is a new to me author, but now I want to make sure to read any past books and any future books, especially in this series. There is just so much to love about this book, so excuse my gushing.
The romance aspect of this book is amazing. Leo is so patient and kind with Scarlett. After her kidnapping and being kept by her monster, she is understandably afraid. Leo showed her such kindness, tenderness, caring, love, and was just the perfect man for Scarlett. Don’t get me wrong, he definitely has a wicked side, but it was never toward Scarlett.
I’m not a big mafia book person – it’s usually not my thing. But the author balanced this book out so well between that aspect, the romance, even the friendships with Scarlett and Maddie, that it wasn’t not “in your face” mafia. So really, it was the perfect balance for me. Also, the fact that all the “mafia” actions were in defense of Scarlett also made it more interesting.
I will say that I figured out the monster pretty early on. I did second guess myself at one point, and I did kind of guess another twist as well, but it did not take away from my enjoyment of the book at all! Dark romance readers, mafia readers.. ya’ll are going to LOVE this book!
Trigger warnings: knife play, kidnapping, off page reference to sexual assault (the author also lists trigger warnings at the beginning of the book)
Publish Date: February 25, 2025
Find the book here.
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