Kai Tyler

Many people think organized crime is a thing of the past. But what might it look like in the future? For Dante Orsino, a mafia underboss, it doesn't look all that different than one might expect--there are traditions and expectations, and they don't leave much space for a gay man. And when he finds himself entangled with Carlos Carmichael, the son of the head of a rival family, he learns just how deep those traditions run...

A very interesting and intriguing read. In a world where I often feel like I'm reading some of the same stories over and over again in m/m romance, it was nice to see what I think is a new take and voice in the genre. Definitely an enjoyable read.

The focus here, to me, was on the characters and the relationships. The dystopian elements aren't very strong, but that's okay because they're not incredibly relevant to the overall plot. I feel like the focus here was in the right place, for sure--just wanted to mention that caveat in case someone was picking this up looking for a story a bit heavier on the dystopian elements.

[Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.]… (mehr)

I've got mixed feelings about this one.

The sex scenes were really well done and I liked how not set in your usual dom/sub limitations the characters were. So 5 stars for those on their own.

Sadly (in this case) there was plot, too. The words weren't really flowing and the story felt kinda rushed - especially towards the end. Everything seemed too easy and... unfinished maybe? Like a draft. Also I was confused why Enzo doesn't recognize Lexan when the meet again.

I expected something a little like In the company of shadows (come on, the parallels are there!), but it is really different. I can't tell you much about the world building in this series, because I have not read the first part. In the second part there isn't much (which is not needed if it's in the first one, so...).

Disclaimer: I received a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.… (mehr)