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London Mafia Bosses #2
Taken by the Kingpin
A previous cover edition for this ASIN can be found here
They call me the lost princess…
But I’m a normal girl, late for my first work evening-do. Sure, a mob boss is watching me. Making my tummy flutter.
Tall, dark, older and dangerous, I shouldn’t want him. When the clock ticks to midnight and I officially turn eighteen, I tell him I’m done with my family’s mafia.
But it’s not done with me.
Snatched away and trapped in Sebastian’s luxurious apartment, I have no choice but to bargain. I won’t try to escape, he’ll teach me how to defend myself.
Then our lessons escalate, and soon I’m aching and needy and… What if I could be his princess…?
Taken by the Kingpin is a short, sweet and steamy instalove story, starring a possessive billionaire who has never been able to resist his starcrossed girl.
They call me the lost princess…
But I’m a normal girl, late for my first work evening-do. Sure, a mob boss is watching me. Making my tummy flutter.
Tall, dark, older and dangerous, I shouldn’t want him. When the clock ticks to midnight and I officially turn eighteen, I tell him I’m done with my family’s mafia.
But it’s not done with me.
Snatched away and trapped in Sebastian’s luxurious apartment, I have no choice but to bargain. I won’t try to escape, he’ll teach me how to defend myself.
Then our lessons escalate, and soon I’m aching and needy and… What if I could be his princess…?
Taken by the Kingpin is a short, sweet and steamy instalove story, starring a possessive billionaire who has never been able to resist his starcrossed girl.
93 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2023
447 people are currently reading
545 people want to read
About the author
Evie Rose
47 books507 followersIf you stop at sane, you miss all the best stuff.
Evie Rose writes gleefully improbable bitesized instalove romances, with heroes who are all-in obsessed for their heroines.
She loves possessive alpha heroes, age gap, tons of spice, forced proximity, pining, and swoony romantic bits. She's the darker alter-ego of bestselling author Eve Pendle.
Evie Rose writes gleefully improbable bitesized instalove romances, with heroes who are all-in obsessed for their heroines.
She loves possessive alpha heroes, age gap, tons of spice, forced proximity, pining, and swoony romantic bits. She's the darker alter-ego of bestselling author Eve Pendle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
February 7, 2023
5/5 🌟 3/5 🔥
"Juliet Carter was born to be my bride."
This was an AMAZING gem to find! Jeanette, formally known as Juliet, is a mafia princess. She was an arranged bride for a man named Sebastian when she was a child. He rejected her family's offer because he had hopes her life would get better... but it didn't. So here he is, on the eve of her 18th birthday, intent on protecting her from harm. He's in for a surprise when he sees his child bride is all grown up.
"Juliet was the child. Jeanette is this perfect young woman. Too young and beautiful for me, with my scarred body and ripped soul."
The chemistry between these two is intense! I could FEEL how much Sebastian adored Jeanette. He protected her from harm, danced with her, and spent quality time with her. He waited for her to make the first move... and then it was on.
"You want me to stay?" Always. Forever. I want her by my side and in my bed. "Just until you're safe." She'd be safer with me.
I love the inner monologue of a man in love <3 Y'all, these characters got KINKY! Primal play, bondage, breeding, rough sex- it's all in there. And man, it's hot baha. Now excuse me while I patiently wait on Evie Rose to write another novella. <3
SAFETY:
Age: 17/18h, 39H
Cheating: None!
OM/OW drama: None!
Sex scene with OM/OW: None!
Virgin/celibate/manwhore: virgin heroine, no history on hero
Triggers: don't read this if you don't like twenty year age differences! <3 but also: death of a parent, death of a side character, dubcon, kidnap, drugging, child brides/forcing into marriage
Kinks: dirty talk, primal, dubcon, bdsm, breeding, rough sex, praise
Tropes: forbidden love, age gap, known since childhood
HEA?: Yes! Epilogue 5 years later.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Juliet Carter was born to be my bride."
This was an AMAZING gem to find! Jeanette, formally known as Juliet, is a mafia princess. She was an arranged bride for a man named Sebastian when she was a child. He rejected her family's offer because he had hopes her life would get better... but it didn't. So here he is, on the eve of her 18th birthday, intent on protecting her from harm. He's in for a surprise when he sees his child bride is all grown up.
"Juliet was the child. Jeanette is this perfect young woman. Too young and beautiful for me, with my scarred body and ripped soul."
The chemistry between these two is intense! I could FEEL how much Sebastian adored Jeanette. He protected her from harm, danced with her, and spent quality time with her. He waited for her to make the first move... and then it was on.
"You want me to stay?" Always. Forever. I want her by my side and in my bed. "Just until you're safe." She'd be safer with me.
I love the inner monologue of a man in love <3 Y'all, these characters got KINKY! Primal play, bondage, breeding, rough sex- it's all in there. And man, it's hot baha. Now excuse me while I patiently wait on Evie Rose to write another novella. <3
SAFETY:
Age: 17/18h, 39H
Cheating: None!
OM/OW drama: None!
Sex scene with OM/OW: None!
Virgin/celibate/manwhore: virgin heroine, no history on hero
Triggers: don't read this if you don't like twenty year age differences! <3 but also: death of a parent, death of a side character, dubcon, kidnap, drugging, child brides/forcing into marriage
Kinks: dirty talk, primal, dubcon, bdsm, breeding, rough sex, praise
Tropes: forbidden love, age gap, known since childhood
HEA?: Yes! Epilogue 5 years later.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2024
Short and entertaining
August 6, 2025
„I’m her captor, her watcher, her guard. Nothing she does will go unnoticed by me. “
This was such a find , a short, mafia romance that still managed to give me history, chemistry, and enough tension to keep me hooked the whole way through. Jeanette (once Juliet) grew up as a mafia princess promised to Sebastian when she was just thirteen. But back then, Sebastian wanted no part of marrying a child , thinking he was doing her a favor, he rejected the arrangement, hoping her life would turn out better without him. It didn’t.
Fast forward to the eve of her 18th birthday, and Sebastian realizes the mistake he made years ago. She’s all grown up now beautiful, strong, but still stuck in a dangerous world that treats her more like property than a person. He shows up determined to protect her and maybe, finally claim her. What he doesn’t expect is just how hard she’s going to hit him right in the chest (and, let’s be real, everywhere else) the second he sees her again.
„If I have you once, I won’t let you go. If you allow me to join our bodies, to thrust into your virgin pussy, I won’t stop there. You’ll be mine. I’ll claim you. That freedom you wanted? Gone. You’d be here, as my queen, by my side.”
Their chemistry is intense. You can feel how much Sebastian adores her ,how every protective instinct he has is dialed up to eleven when she’s near. He doesn’t just swoop in and take over, he waits for her to make the first move, gives her control in ways no one else ever has, and actually listens to her. That alone is enough to make you swoon, but then he goes and teaches her self-defense so she can take back some power in her own life. And let’s just say… those lessons involve a lot of close contact.
„I breathe in her honey and rose scent and try to tell her with my kiss all the words I dare not say aloud.
I love you.
I can’t let you go.
You’re mine. “
Jeanette has spent years being told what to do, where to go, and who she belongs to. Sebastian gives her stability, respect and a safe place to land and she gives him someone worth fighting for. They’re both intelligent, loyal, and quietly stubborn, making them a perfect match.
It’s short, but it hits exactly where it needs to!! We have a protective mafia hero and a heroine finally getting her voice back. And not to forget, a relationship that burns hot but still feels tender. I only wish it had been longer because I could have eaten up a whole novel of these two.
⭐️4,5
trops/kinks/safety
🖤mafia romance
🖤age gap
🖤forbidden love
🖤protective hero
🖤virgin heroine
🖤brat heroine
🖤kidnapping
🖤death of parent (past)
🖤drugging (past)
🖤child bride (past)
🖤dirty talk
🖤primal
🖤breeding
🖤rough sex
🖤praise
This was such a find , a short, mafia romance that still managed to give me history, chemistry, and enough tension to keep me hooked the whole way through. Jeanette (once Juliet) grew up as a mafia princess promised to Sebastian when she was just thirteen. But back then, Sebastian wanted no part of marrying a child , thinking he was doing her a favor, he rejected the arrangement, hoping her life would turn out better without him. It didn’t.
Fast forward to the eve of her 18th birthday, and Sebastian realizes the mistake he made years ago. She’s all grown up now beautiful, strong, but still stuck in a dangerous world that treats her more like property than a person. He shows up determined to protect her and maybe, finally claim her. What he doesn’t expect is just how hard she’s going to hit him right in the chest (and, let’s be real, everywhere else) the second he sees her again.
„If I have you once, I won’t let you go. If you allow me to join our bodies, to thrust into your virgin pussy, I won’t stop there. You’ll be mine. I’ll claim you. That freedom you wanted? Gone. You’d be here, as my queen, by my side.”
Their chemistry is intense. You can feel how much Sebastian adores her ,how every protective instinct he has is dialed up to eleven when she’s near. He doesn’t just swoop in and take over, he waits for her to make the first move, gives her control in ways no one else ever has, and actually listens to her. That alone is enough to make you swoon, but then he goes and teaches her self-defense so she can take back some power in her own life. And let’s just say… those lessons involve a lot of close contact.
„I breathe in her honey and rose scent and try to tell her with my kiss all the words I dare not say aloud.
I love you.
I can’t let you go.
You’re mine. “
Jeanette has spent years being told what to do, where to go, and who she belongs to. Sebastian gives her stability, respect and a safe place to land and she gives him someone worth fighting for. They’re both intelligent, loyal, and quietly stubborn, making them a perfect match.
It’s short, but it hits exactly where it needs to!! We have a protective mafia hero and a heroine finally getting her voice back. And not to forget, a relationship that burns hot but still feels tender. I only wish it had been longer because I could have eaten up a whole novel of these two.
⭐️4,5
trops/kinks/safety
🖤mafia romance
🖤age gap
🖤forbidden love
🖤protective hero
🖤virgin heroine
🖤brat heroine
🖤kidnapping
🖤death of parent (past)
🖤drugging (past)
🖤child bride (past)
🖤dirty talk
🖤primal
🖤breeding
🖤rough sex
🖤praise
June 15, 2024
⭐️ another quick read
⭐️ age gap (39 H, 21 h)
⭐️ she was a mafia princess with an awful family; the entire situation that happened when she was 16 just made me sick; glad the H was there and saved her
⭐️ fast-paced, spicy, but not overdone (V h, it's implied he was a playboy, not having serious relationships, which is fine, considering the age gap; there's no detailed explanation of his past, which again, it's fine and the assumptions fit his character; but I got quite annoyed with the focus on her innocence *rolling eyes*), light 🍞ing
⭐️ he was her savior and protector from the shadow for the past 5 years, and once they reunite, everything falls into place. While he continues protecting her, he teaches her self-defense. Eventually, all the secrets are out, and well, obviously, they become each other's other half
⭐️ HEA, epilogue, and extra epilogue by mail
Since I already have the next one, I'll continue the series but afterwards I might stop or at least take a break since these stories are quite similar, though entertaining, they follow the same formula 🤷♀️ (she's in danger, he saves and protects, he k1lls for her and then bam, HEA).
⭐️ age gap (39 H, 21 h)
⭐️ she was a mafia princess with an awful family; the entire situation that happened when she was 16 just made me sick; glad the H was there and saved her
⭐️ fast-paced, spicy, but not overdone (V h, it's implied he was a playboy, not having serious relationships, which is fine, considering the age gap; there's no detailed explanation of his past, which again, it's fine and the assumptions fit his character; but I got quite annoyed with the focus on her innocence *rolling eyes*), light 🍞ing
⭐️ he was her savior and protector from the shadow for the past 5 years, and once they reunite, everything falls into place. While he continues protecting her, he teaches her self-defense. Eventually, all the secrets are out, and well, obviously, they become each other's other half
⭐️ HEA, epilogue, and extra epilogue by mail
Since I already have the next one, I'll continue the series but afterwards I might stop or at least take a break since these stories are quite similar, though entertaining, they follow the same formula 🤷♀️ (she's in danger, he saves and protects, he k1lls for her and then bam, HEA).
June 7, 2025
3.5 smut-scale stars!
February 2, 2025
Jeanette was so naive, so naive that it hurt to read. Characters should have been a bit more fleshed out, they were hard to relate to like this.
I think the atmosphere could have been more thrilling - she was in danger after all but it didn't feel like it.
There were too many things that felt too unbelievable and towards the end there was thing that felt a bit cringey.
I think the atmosphere could have been more thrilling - she was in danger after all but it didn't feel like it.
There were too many things that felt too unbelievable and towards the end there was thing that felt a bit cringey.
July 8, 2025
“Taken by the Kingpin” is the story of Jeanette/ Juliet and Sebastian.
Juliet Carter was born to be my bride. I must have her. I’ve always known, even when I lied to myself that I could keep away, that I would rearrange the heavens for us to be together. The connection is instant and undeniable. Juliet Carter is mine.
Second Chance romance between a protective hero and a scared heroine, then reuniting, loads of drama and a happy ending.
Safe?? (Hero’s safety during separation unknown)
2.5/5
Juliet Carter was born to be my bride. I must have her. I’ve always known, even when I lied to myself that I could keep away, that I would rearrange the heavens for us to be together. The connection is instant and undeniable. Juliet Carter is mine.
Second Chance romance between a protective hero and a scared heroine, then reuniting, loads of drama and a happy ending.
Safe?? (Hero’s safety during separation unknown)
2.5/5
June 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐
2.5 🌶️
This one wasn't my favorite, it's a me thing, but one of my biggest pet peeves in romance is when the FMC realizes she's in danger and still decides to be difficult. I suppose it makes for a humorous read, but I can't help but roll my eyes. The astrological aspect was confusing to me too.
"And finally—finally—I have a job I’m good at after graduating. I’ll lose it if I don’t turn up for work. So, no.” Can't go to work if you are dead 😅.
Overall the audiobook narrators were better than the book. However I think I need to reread it to fully understand what happened. I enjoyed the spice, but couldn't really summarize what I read.
Favorite Quotes:
"My north star that I couldn’t see because the clouds covered him. But he was always there, shining over me. And now he’s mine."
"I was born a mafia princess; I will live as a queen. My place in the world is by Sebastian’s side."
2.5 🌶️
This one wasn't my favorite, it's a me thing, but one of my biggest pet peeves in romance is when the FMC realizes she's in danger and still decides to be difficult. I suppose it makes for a humorous read, but I can't help but roll my eyes. The astrological aspect was confusing to me too.
"And finally—finally—I have a job I’m good at after graduating. I’ll lose it if I don’t turn up for work. So, no.” Can't go to work if you are dead 😅.
Overall the audiobook narrators were better than the book. However I think I need to reread it to fully understand what happened. I enjoyed the spice, but couldn't really summarize what I read.
Favorite Quotes:
"My north star that I couldn’t see because the clouds covered him. But he was always there, shining over me. And now he’s mine."
"I was born a mafia princess; I will live as a queen. My place in the world is by Sebastian’s side."
March 11, 2025
I listened to the audiobook adaptation. However, Goodreads doesn’t have said adaptation available on their platform.. that’s why I went for the Paperback edition instead.
Absolutely no crumbs were left behind in this one. None. Not a single one.
Like its predecessor, this book does not slow down. It’s rapid-fire, non-stop, and full of heat. And oh my god, the spice! Holy cannoli, I was not prepared.
And that ending? Holy guacamole! Was expected though. But still…
If you want a quick, dirty, no-holds-barred mafia romance, this one delivers.
Absolutely no crumbs were left behind in this one. None. Not a single one.
Like its predecessor, this book does not slow down. It’s rapid-fire, non-stop, and full of heat. And oh my god, the spice! Holy cannoli, I was not prepared.
And that ending? Holy guacamole! Was expected though. But still…
If you want a quick, dirty, no-holds-barred mafia romance, this one delivers.
March 28, 2025
Amazing story loved it.
🔥✨️💞📚🔥✨️📚💞✨️
🔥✨️💞📚🔥✨️📚💞✨️
March 9, 2023
This one, compared to the first book in the series, took a bit for me to ease into. There was a lot of talk about Astrology and I know nothing about it. And pretty much any of the terminology just got lost on me. But once I was able to start overlooking it I got hooked fast and hard on these characters. In fact, I may have loved them more than King and Ophelia. Their energy and connection was powerful and had me falling hard for them.
Another great, quick read with a lot going on. But not too quick a pace you get lost in it all. And don’t get me started on the romance. I will just say that it was beautifully and sensually portrayed throughout. I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series. 5 Stars.
Another great, quick read with a lot going on. But not too quick a pace you get lost in it all. And don’t get me started on the romance. I will just say that it was beautifully and sensually portrayed throughout. I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series. 5 Stars.
July 1, 2023
This was a well written, single-sitting story, with a guaranteed happy ending, and compelling erotic scenes, but there were several aspects of the plot that I found downright disturbing if not highly distracting. The 13-year-old-child-marriage, the literally-just-turned-18-five-minutes-ago, and the curious-but-very-inexperienced-virgin-trope means that age and ‘childishness’ is a constant aspect. (Side note: the first full day is her birthday and they don’t even bring that up!?) None of that is mentioned in the warnings and I don’t know that I would have read this if it were. I am also deeply disturbed by the power dynamic created when the male protagonist reveals that he has been secretly caring for and receiving updates on (including photos) the female protagonist since she was 13. By comparison, Captured by the Mafia Boss successfully includes elements of arranged marriage, age-gap, and virginity without venturing into grooming or pedophilia. I would not re-read and I would not recommend to others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2025
Eeehh this one was even more silly and not in a good way. It was okay.
March 9, 2023
🎭Taken by the Kingpin 🏠
London Mafia Bosses #2
✒️ Evie Rose ( Eve Pendle)
https://www.facebook.com/EvePendleAut...
Release Date 03/09/2023
➪ https://a.co/d/bv4bvmV
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
They call me the lost princess…
But I’m a normal girl, late for my first work evening-do. Sure, a mob boss is watching me. Making my tummy flutter.
Tall, dark, older and dangerous, I shouldn’t want him. When the clock ticks to midnight and I officially turn eighteen, I tell him I’m done with my family’s mafia.
But it’s not done with me.
Snatched away and trapped in Sebastian’s luxurious apartment, I have no choice but to bargain. I won’t try to escape, and he’ll teach me to defend myself.
But our lessons escalate, and soon I’m aching and needy and… What if I could be his princess…?
Taken by the Kingpin is a sweet and steamy instalove romance, starring a possessive billionaire who has never been able to resist his starcrossed girl.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she choose obscurity or take the risk of dangerous love...
Oops, I am late to review this one as I made a mistake when I marked it in my reading schedule.
So time to right it.
Like the first book, it is a tale of a powerful forbidden chemistry due to their age difference.
Jeanette should have stayed invisible, dead to the world but in the time of social media, it has become quite an impossible feat.
Sebastian vowed to protect her the moment he saw her some five years ago when she was just a child. And he did it.
Now that she is reaching her eighteenth birthday, things gonna take a turn for the better or the worst.
A quick read about fated mates despite the age difference and their world’s rules.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 hot
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cpka8c...
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?stor...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2023read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #evependle #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
London Mafia Bosses #2
✒️ Evie Rose ( Eve Pendle)
https://www.facebook.com/EvePendleAut...
Release Date 03/09/2023
➪ https://a.co/d/bv4bvmV
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
They call me the lost princess…
But I’m a normal girl, late for my first work evening-do. Sure, a mob boss is watching me. Making my tummy flutter.
Tall, dark, older and dangerous, I shouldn’t want him. When the clock ticks to midnight and I officially turn eighteen, I tell him I’m done with my family’s mafia.
But it’s not done with me.
Snatched away and trapped in Sebastian’s luxurious apartment, I have no choice but to bargain. I won’t try to escape, and he’ll teach me to defend myself.
But our lessons escalate, and soon I’m aching and needy and… What if I could be his princess…?
Taken by the Kingpin is a sweet and steamy instalove romance, starring a possessive billionaire who has never been able to resist his starcrossed girl.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she choose obscurity or take the risk of dangerous love...
Oops, I am late to review this one as I made a mistake when I marked it in my reading schedule.
So time to right it.
Like the first book, it is a tale of a powerful forbidden chemistry due to their age difference.
Jeanette should have stayed invisible, dead to the world but in the time of social media, it has become quite an impossible feat.
Sebastian vowed to protect her the moment he saw her some five years ago when she was just a child. And he did it.
Now that she is reaching her eighteenth birthday, things gonna take a turn for the better or the worst.
A quick read about fated mates despite the age difference and their world’s rules.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 hot
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cpka8c...
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?stor...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2023read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #evependle #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
September 22, 2025
Taken by the Kingpin by Evie Rose is a short, passionate romance that effortlessly combines the high-stakes world of the mafia with a possessive and intense love story. The plot follows Jeanette, also known as Juliet, who has just turned eighteen and wants nothing more than to escape her family’s mafia legacy. But fate—and Sebastian, a powerful and commanding mob boss—have other plans. When Jeanette is snatched away and trapped in Sebastian’s luxurious apartment, she must negotiate a delicate balance between resistance and surrender.
The mafia elements bring an alluring danger and glamour to the story. Sebastian is the quintessential kingpin: tall, dark, and dangerously possessive. His control is absolute, yet beneath his tough exterior lies a desire to protect and teach Jeanette—both how to defend herself and how to navigate the complexities of their intense relationship. The tension between power and vulnerability is palpable, driving the story forward.
The romance is the heart of the book. What begins as a forced arrangement quickly escalates into a scorching connection full of aching need and unexpected tenderness. Jeanette’s transformation—from wary captive to someone who begins to consider a future as Sebastian’s princess—is both compelling and emotionally charged. Their instalove is steamy and immediate, packed with moments of fierce passion balanced by genuine emotional depth.
Evie Rose crafts a narrative where danger and desire are deeply intertwined, creating a world that’s as intoxicating as it is suspenseful. The story is perfect for readers who enjoy quick, intense romances with strong heroines and alpha heroes who are as protective as they are possessive.
Taken by the Kingpin offers an exciting escape into a world of mafia power and passionate love, where trust is hard-earned, and surrender might just be the ultimate act of strength.
The mafia elements bring an alluring danger and glamour to the story. Sebastian is the quintessential kingpin: tall, dark, and dangerously possessive. His control is absolute, yet beneath his tough exterior lies a desire to protect and teach Jeanette—both how to defend herself and how to navigate the complexities of their intense relationship. The tension between power and vulnerability is palpable, driving the story forward.
The romance is the heart of the book. What begins as a forced arrangement quickly escalates into a scorching connection full of aching need and unexpected tenderness. Jeanette’s transformation—from wary captive to someone who begins to consider a future as Sebastian’s princess—is both compelling and emotionally charged. Their instalove is steamy and immediate, packed with moments of fierce passion balanced by genuine emotional depth.
Evie Rose crafts a narrative where danger and desire are deeply intertwined, creating a world that’s as intoxicating as it is suspenseful. The story is perfect for readers who enjoy quick, intense romances with strong heroines and alpha heroes who are as protective as they are possessive.
Taken by the Kingpin offers an exciting escape into a world of mafia power and passionate love, where trust is hard-earned, and surrender might just be the ultimate act of strength.
February 10, 2023
This was a quicky read. Although short, it did nicely set up both of the MCs and give a decent amount of history about them (sprinkled throughout). Sebastian and Juliette (now known as Jeanette) met when she was onky 13. At that time Sebastian felt she was too young to be getting married, and decided against marriage. When he realized his mistake and tried to fix it, she had been sent off to Ross and it became a rescue/recovery mission instead.
From that point he made it his duty to ensure her safety. That was the intent of his "running" into her at the dinner the 1st evening. Before he could extract her from the environment, however, time got away from him and she ended up having to be brought to his home. Agreeing to teach her self-defense in exchange for her agreeing to stay agreeably was hard on Sebastian as that required physical contact. Turns out it was difficult for Jeanette too!
These two were more alike than they wanted to admit. Both intelligent, kind, loyal and dependable. Jeanette yearned for that stability and dependability in her life, and someone who care about her. She was very accustomed to being an object but not often heard and never listened to. Sebastian actually cared what she thought and gave her some control of her life back. And let's not forget the physical benefits shall we! 😉😉
Given all the things that she gained by being in his presence, what was the benefit again of demanding to leave?
I received an ARC and voluntarily wrote this review.
From that point he made it his duty to ensure her safety. That was the intent of his "running" into her at the dinner the 1st evening. Before he could extract her from the environment, however, time got away from him and she ended up having to be brought to his home. Agreeing to teach her self-defense in exchange for her agreeing to stay agreeably was hard on Sebastian as that required physical contact. Turns out it was difficult for Jeanette too!
These two were more alike than they wanted to admit. Both intelligent, kind, loyal and dependable. Jeanette yearned for that stability and dependability in her life, and someone who care about her. She was very accustomed to being an object but not often heard and never listened to. Sebastian actually cared what she thought and gave her some control of her life back. And let's not forget the physical benefits shall we! 😉😉
Given all the things that she gained by being in his presence, what was the benefit again of demanding to leave?
I received an ARC and voluntarily wrote this review.
August 31, 2025
Sebastian and Jeanette
This is pretty standard Evie Rose fare. I’ve been reading this series completely out of order and enjoying it so I decided to go back to the beginning and go through all the ones I missed in order.
While this book is in no way bad, I can’t wait tell it’s an early book in this series and she hadn’t quite found her stride.
There is a big huge info dump at the very beginning that I found kind of confusing but it eventually becomes clearer. There was also a bit of flowery, unnecessary, metaphors scattered throughout that were just kind of weird and started to get a little boring. It was almost like she was trying to show how well she could write but it just ended up coming off as pretentious. These are very minor issues in the scheme of things.
Sebastian is the kind of hero I love. Totally possessive and obsessed with the heroine. Then you find out he’s been looking after her all these years from afar and my heart just melts. He’s unabashedly in love with Jamie but is willing to to give her her freedom if that’s what will make her happy, even though he admits it will destroy him because he doesn’t know how to live without her.
A nice addition to the series.
This is pretty standard Evie Rose fare. I’ve been reading this series completely out of order and enjoying it so I decided to go back to the beginning and go through all the ones I missed in order.
While this book is in no way bad, I can’t wait tell it’s an early book in this series and she hadn’t quite found her stride.
There is a big huge info dump at the very beginning that I found kind of confusing but it eventually becomes clearer. There was also a bit of flowery, unnecessary, metaphors scattered throughout that were just kind of weird and started to get a little boring. It was almost like she was trying to show how well she could write but it just ended up coming off as pretentious. These are very minor issues in the scheme of things.
Sebastian is the kind of hero I love. Totally possessive and obsessed with the heroine. Then you find out he’s been looking after her all these years from afar and my heart just melts. He’s unabashedly in love with Jamie but is willing to to give her her freedom if that’s what will make her happy, even though he admits it will destroy him because he doesn’t know how to live without her.
A nice addition to the series.
March 9, 2023
3.5 ⭐️’s | Mafia-lite romance
• Story/Plot: 📖📖📖
• Characters: 🫂🫂🫂
• Angst/Drama: 😰😰😰
• Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
• HEA? ✔️
• Re-readable? Probably not
The romance of the story was sweet if I mentally took her age out of the equation. I was a little creeped out that her dad gave her away for marriage at 13 🤢. So it made it a little harder for me to get into their love story at 17 into 18. The positive thing the MMC had going for him was that he learned she was 13 and rejected the union at that time and he stayed away until she was almost 18.
I would have loved some additional context… like a prologue could have really helped me mentally catch up to the story so I didn’t feel like I was mentally fumbling.
I appreciated how protective the MMC was of the FMC and that he wanted her to be successful in life and was willing to let her go if that’s what she wanted. I was also grateful that he wasn’t the aggressor in their physical relationship and let her make the choices.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
• Story/Plot: 📖📖📖
• Characters: 🫂🫂🫂
• Angst/Drama: 😰😰😰
• Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
• HEA? ✔️
• Re-readable? Probably not
The romance of the story was sweet if I mentally took her age out of the equation. I was a little creeped out that her dad gave her away for marriage at 13 🤢. So it made it a little harder for me to get into their love story at 17 into 18. The positive thing the MMC had going for him was that he learned she was 13 and rejected the union at that time and he stayed away until she was almost 18.
I would have loved some additional context… like a prologue could have really helped me mentally catch up to the story so I didn’t feel like I was mentally fumbling.
I appreciated how protective the MMC was of the FMC and that he wanted her to be successful in life and was willing to let her go if that’s what she wanted. I was also grateful that he wasn’t the aggressor in their physical relationship and let her make the choices.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2023
This is the 2nd book in the London Mafia Bosses series featuring Sebastian and Jeanette's sizzling romance full of danger and suspense. Jeanette is a mafia princess who wants to be free from the life so she goes into hiding. Sebastian is a mob boss who was potentially a suitor for Jeanette before she went into hiding since he's captivated by her and vows to protect her even though she's only a young girl. When they meet again on her 18th birthday Sebastian recognizes Jeanette right away much to her dismay and determined to keep her safe Sebastian kidnaps her.I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this cute romance with some danger and suspense thrown in to see what happens. I would recommend reading this book and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2023
This one was cute and a very easy read. I do like when the mafia boss is mushy but only for the female main character however, one day guys she has one day maybe 210 minute lessons, and all the sudden she is like a master at self-defense.
It’s very very laughable, and since her natural instinct is to freeze, it’s funny how she overcomes that instantly
Anyways, besides that one insanely glaring problem, the Insta love worked in the sense that they both had known each other technically before, however, the idea of him being her technical guardian in a way for years and then the second that she turns 17 he was like oh yes, as soon as she’s 18 she’ll be mine
But he wouldn’t have her when she was 13, which is 100% OK in my book and super freaking gross
But 17 is where it all gets turned around I guess
Anyways, it’s fine it’s just gross if you really break it down but anyways, it’s a cute book
It’s very very laughable, and since her natural instinct is to freeze, it’s funny how she overcomes that instantly
Anyways, besides that one insanely glaring problem, the Insta love worked in the sense that they both had known each other technically before, however, the idea of him being her technical guardian in a way for years and then the second that she turns 17 he was like oh yes, as soon as she’s 18 she’ll be mine
But he wouldn’t have her when she was 13, which is 100% OK in my book and super freaking gross
But 17 is where it all gets turned around I guess
Anyways, it’s fine it’s just gross if you really break it down but anyways, it’s a cute book
Read
January 21, 2025hey call me the lost princess…
But I’m a normal girl, late for my first work evening-do. Sure, a mob boss is watching me. Making my tummy flutter.
Tall, dark, older and dangerous, I shouldn’t want him. When the clock ticks to midnight and I officially turn eighteen, I tell him I’m done with my family’s mafia.
But it’s not done with me.
Snatched away and trapped in Sebastian’s luxurious apartment, I have no choice but to bargain. I won’t try to escape, he’ll teach me how to defend myself.
Then our lessons escalate, and soon I’m aching and needy and… What if I could be his princess…?
Taken by the Kingpin is a short, sweet and steamy instalove story, starring a possessive billionaire who has never been able to resist his starcrossed girl.
Heather's Notes
These book are a guilty pleasure. They are like candy, sweet and not much substance. Still they are short and nice between heavier books.
But I’m a normal girl, late for my first work evening-do. Sure, a mob boss is watching me. Making my tummy flutter.
Tall, dark, older and dangerous, I shouldn’t want him. When the clock ticks to midnight and I officially turn eighteen, I tell him I’m done with my family’s mafia.
But it’s not done with me.
Snatched away and trapped in Sebastian’s luxurious apartment, I have no choice but to bargain. I won’t try to escape, he’ll teach me how to defend myself.
Then our lessons escalate, and soon I’m aching and needy and… What if I could be his princess…?
Taken by the Kingpin is a short, sweet and steamy instalove story, starring a possessive billionaire who has never been able to resist his starcrossed girl.
Heather's Notes
These book are a guilty pleasure. They are like candy, sweet and not much substance. Still they are short and nice between heavier books.
November 5, 2025
Jeanette is an administrative assistant to an astrological specialist. She has made her boss Priscilla, famous. The only problem is she exposed herself at the same time. Jeanette use to be Juliet, a mafia princess sold off by her father at sixteen. Her first betrothed rejected her and the second her husband was a tyrant. She has escaped that life…..or has she.
Sebastian Laurent is a powerful mafia boss. He is beautiful, dangerous much older and also the man who rejected her.
What Jeanette doesn’t know is that Sebastian has been secretly keeping tabs on her and keeping her safe. When danger comes for Jeanette he can no longer stay hidden. He kidnaps her…to keep her safe. He teaches herself defense. When the danger passes will she leave him and will he be able to let her go.
I love how OTT Sebastian is. He protects Jeanette and puts his own happiness aside for hers. He is in love with her but will give her the freedom she desires.
Great series.
Sebastian Laurent is a powerful mafia boss. He is beautiful, dangerous much older and also the man who rejected her.
What Jeanette doesn’t know is that Sebastian has been secretly keeping tabs on her and keeping her safe. When danger comes for Jeanette he can no longer stay hidden. He kidnaps her…to keep her safe. He teaches herself defense. When the danger passes will she leave him and will he be able to let her go.
I love how OTT Sebastian is. He protects Jeanette and puts his own happiness aside for hers. He is in love with her but will give her the freedom she desires.
Great series.
February 8, 2023
Okay so I will begin with a complaint! Why oh why isn't this a full length? It has the plot to carry a novel and characters with mad chemistry. Oodles of electricity and steam and enough naughty taboo - a big age gap here - to justify a page turning complete story.
Okay, so rant over. When the insanely handsome silver fox Mafia kingpin rescues the innocent damsel in distress on her 18th Birthday (although she doesn't know it) from an enforced marriage, sparks fly.
Our damsel Juliette (now living undercover as Jeanette) melts whenever she is close to her 'captor' Sebastian but she also longs to be free from the mafia world. He has 24 hours to dissuade her from leaving him.......
This novella is a short, well written steamy read. I just wish it had been longer!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Okay, so rant over. When the insanely handsome silver fox Mafia kingpin rescues the innocent damsel in distress on her 18th Birthday (although she doesn't know it) from an enforced marriage, sparks fly.
Our damsel Juliette (now living undercover as Jeanette) melts whenever she is close to her 'captor' Sebastian but she also longs to be free from the mafia world. He has 24 hours to dissuade her from leaving him.......
This novella is a short, well written steamy read. I just wish it had been longer!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 5, 2023
Jeanette aka Juliet is a normal girl, going to her first work evening-do. When the clock ticks to midnight and she turns eighteen, she'll tell him she’s done with her family’s mafia. But she’s snatched away and trapped in Sebastian Laurent’s luxurious apartment where she bargains for him to teach me how to defend myself. Then our lessons escalate, and soon I’m aching and needy
A short quick read, which I devoured in a sitting. I loved both Sebastian & Juliet, yes there's a large age difference but it doesn't matter, he's the one who’s been devoted for years. She's hoping to continue her new life but soon finds she’s exactly where she wants to be. It’s fast paced, it's steamy & it's a lovely romance. One quibble I wish it had been longer
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A short quick read, which I devoured in a sitting. I loved both Sebastian & Juliet, yes there's a large age difference but it doesn't matter, he's the one who’s been devoted for years. She's hoping to continue her new life but soon finds she’s exactly where she wants to be. It’s fast paced, it's steamy & it's a lovely romance. One quibble I wish it had been longer
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 7, 2024
Jeanette is alone; has always been alone.
And she rigidly keeps her new identity, carefully protecting herself. The 'missing mafia princess' cannot be discovered. Appearance changes, a name change. But she makes one mistake and the chase is on.
On her 21st birthday, Sebastian scoops her up and takes off into the night, shooting a man within arm's reach of grabbing her. Within 24 hours, she learns all about her father 'selling her' to another mafia family in marriage at 16.
Her memories of what happened are missing. Only that when she comes to, she is in police protective custody. Can she trust that Sebastian is telling her the truth, or does she need to run? Mystery and intrigue, fear and disillusionment... But she wants to believe Sebastian. Plenty of danger, and self discovery.
And she rigidly keeps her new identity, carefully protecting herself. The 'missing mafia princess' cannot be discovered. Appearance changes, a name change. But she makes one mistake and the chase is on.
On her 21st birthday, Sebastian scoops her up and takes off into the night, shooting a man within arm's reach of grabbing her. Within 24 hours, she learns all about her father 'selling her' to another mafia family in marriage at 16.
Her memories of what happened are missing. Only that when she comes to, she is in police protective custody. Can she trust that Sebastian is telling her the truth, or does she need to run? Mystery and intrigue, fear and disillusionment... But she wants to believe Sebastian. Plenty of danger, and self discovery.
February 7, 2023
This fast-paced and yummy instalove novella has a great storyline, likable characters, and the perfect amount of steam. Juliette Carter is gone (now she is Jeanette Capelle) but no one truly escapes the mafia. Sebastian Laurent has come from her and he is a possessive mafia boss that is 100% devoted to his innocent girl. He has just 24 hours to convince Jeanette to choose him and their future together. No one else will love or protect her like he can. The steam was *chefs kiss*!
Tropes: Contemporary romance, mafia romance, age gap, instalove, virgin heroine, billionaire, breeding, captive romance, happily-ever-after
Heat: 4/5.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tropes: Contemporary romance, mafia romance, age gap, instalove, virgin heroine, billionaire, breeding, captive romance, happily-ever-after
Heat: 4/5.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2023
Jeanette and Seabastion have a connection when they first meet, but unfortunately he rejects her (for a good reason) then bad things happen and years pass and they don't see each other. When they meet again the sparks fly and not only do they get along well, for the most part, this time there is some added heat and lots of it. There is a gap in their ages, but that doesn't stop them from wanting each other. The two of them have several hot and steamy scenes packed into this shorter story. There is also a good bit of humor, as well as violence and action, both written and referred to "off page." If you're looking for a hot age gap with a mafia theme this is the book for you.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2023
Jeanette got on my nerves a bit. Her preoccupation with astrology didn’t really add anything to the story, and her judgment wasn’t the best when it came to her kidnapping or the danger she was facing. But the book was definitely worth it for the glorious older-man/younger-woman goodness! I absolutely loved Sebastian’s obsession with Jeanette. Their backstory, with the almost-engagement and his later role as her guardian angel, was right up my alley. All the pining and inner struggles with ‘I’m a bad man because I watched you grow up and you’re still a young virgin’ is pretty much what I live for. Yes, please!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2023
Light, age-gap, mafia romance. Jeanette is naïve, very into astrology, and lacks situational awareness. Sebastian is the mafia kingpin who steals her away on her 18th birthday. Of course, you can expect a HEA.
I liked this book more than the first one and found it flowed better, but I will say that I found Jeanette TSTL at several points and that was frustrating. She did end up growing on me, but it took some time.
It was a quick, light, sweet and spicy, insta-love romance with a HEA - if that's you're cup of tea, there's a good chance you'll enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked this book more than the first one and found it flowed better, but I will say that I found Jeanette TSTL at several points and that was frustrating. She did end up growing on me, but it took some time.
It was a quick, light, sweet and spicy, insta-love romance with a HEA - if that's you're cup of tea, there's a good chance you'll enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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