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Devious Deals
He’s Devious
Kieran Van der Zee.
The one man I shouldn’t trust.
He runs the city, dealing in sex, secrets, and pain.
Whatever it takes to get what he wants.
He’s my only hope.
So I make a deal with the devil.
It seems simple.
Just say yes and sign away my life.
But my heart is on the line and I’m not sure I can win this game.
She’s Desperate
Ari Triton can get me what I want.
She’s willing to do anything to escape her fiancé.
She gets on her knees, begging for help.
And I agree.
But I’m a dangerous man.
She doesn’t know how far I’ll go for revenge.
She didn’t want to fall in love with me.
Too bad I don’t care.
Kieran Van der Zee.
The one man I shouldn’t trust.
He runs the city, dealing in sex, secrets, and pain.
Whatever it takes to get what he wants.
He’s my only hope.
So I make a deal with the devil.
It seems simple.
Just say yes and sign away my life.
But my heart is on the line and I’m not sure I can win this game.
She’s Desperate
Ari Triton can get me what I want.
She’s willing to do anything to escape her fiancé.
She gets on her knees, begging for help.
And I agree.
But I’m a dangerous man.
She doesn’t know how far I’ll go for revenge.
She didn’t want to fall in love with me.
Too bad I don’t care.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2023
97 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Bale
67 books376 followersSarah Bale's family always knew she would write romances when they saw the elaborate stories she created for her Barbie dolls. At fifteen she penned her first book, which will never see the light of day if she has any say.
When Sarah isn't writing, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and also planning what she’d do in a zombie apocalypse. One of her favorite pastimes is attending comic cons, where she can nerd out over all things Marvel.
She is a USA Today Bestselling Author living in Oklahoma and doesn't plan on leaving any time soon.
When Sarah isn't writing, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and also planning what she’d do in a zombie apocalypse. One of her favorite pastimes is attending comic cons, where she can nerd out over all things Marvel.
She is a USA Today Bestselling Author living in Oklahoma and doesn't plan on leaving any time soon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
June 13, 2023
m surprised he doesn’t have a pussy
June 16, 2023
Suchhhhh a great series!
I cannot wait for the next book and I just learned she has some Captain Hook smut happening too!
I cannot wait for the next book and I just learned she has some Captain Hook smut happening too!
not-for-me
September 12, 2023Self note:
- MMC dated the FMC's mother and loved her when they were young. She even got impregnated by the MMC but was forced to abort.
- MMC purposely impregnates the FMC by giving her fertility vitamins(?)
- They were sleeping together while he's engaged to someone else. (don't know if this engagement ended)
Not for me. Awful MMC.
- MMC dated the FMC's mother and loved her when they were young. She even got impregnated by the MMC but was forced to abort.
- MMC purposely impregnates the FMC by giving her fertility vitamins(?)
- They were sleeping together while he's engaged to someone else. (don't know if this engagement ended)
Not for me. Awful MMC.
June 18, 2023
I wasn’t a huge fan on mafia romance but let me be the first to tell you, this book has changed the entire game! I literally could not put it down and now I can’t wait for the next book! I was hooked since the prologue and it was everything it was supposed to be! From Ariel’s trauma to Kieran’s revenge, this book was a roller coaster and I loved everything about it, and his playroom, OMG 🔥🔥🔥
Thank you to Sarah for sending me a copy of this and changing my mindset on dark mafia romance. I can’t wait for Vicious Vows!
Side note: I want to say that throughout reading this, I couldn’t help myself to hum Kiss the Girl 😆
Thank you to Sarah for sending me a copy of this and changing my mindset on dark mafia romance. I can’t wait for Vicious Vows!
Side note: I want to say that throughout reading this, I couldn’t help myself to hum Kiss the Girl 😆
June 16, 2023
Kiss the Girl...
I just devoured this book in one sitting! I don't think I was ready for this emotionally charged story. I felt such heartache for Ari, she went through so much and still kept going. There were a few tense moments that she didn't know if she wanted to give up and end it all or not.
Check the CW's before jumping into this one because it's a bumpy ride!
So many times I wanted to throat punch Kieran! He was definitely devious in his intentions and the revenge he sought towards Ari's dad. He only agreed to help Ari if she signed a contract and become his pet, his toy for a year. Then he would find her a suitable man to become her husband. But he has other things on his agenda before that can happen.
Even up to the last bit or so I wasn't sure if Kieran could be redeemed. He set Ari in a position that caused her harm and he looked the other way when she tried to tell him.
We get a HFN and a lead into the next book.
I really have enjoyed this series and I can't wait to read about Anna and Odin next!
Side note: I want to say all through reading this I was humming and singing Kiss the Girl lol
I just devoured this book in one sitting! I don't think I was ready for this emotionally charged story. I felt such heartache for Ari, she went through so much and still kept going. There were a few tense moments that she didn't know if she wanted to give up and end it all or not.
Check the CW's before jumping into this one because it's a bumpy ride!
So many times I wanted to throat punch Kieran! He was definitely devious in his intentions and the revenge he sought towards Ari's dad. He only agreed to help Ari if she signed a contract and become his pet, his toy for a year. Then he would find her a suitable man to become her husband. But he has other things on his agenda before that can happen.
Even up to the last bit or so I wasn't sure if Kieran could be redeemed. He set Ari in a position that caused her harm and he looked the other way when she tried to tell him.
We get a HFN and a lead into the next book.
I really have enjoyed this series and I can't wait to read about Anna and Odin next!
Side note: I want to say all through reading this I was humming and singing Kiss the Girl lol
June 20, 2023
3.5 Stars
Enter the captivating world of "Devious Deals," a dark contemporary romance that draws inspiration from the beloved tales of The Little Mermaid and Tarzan. Throughout the story, readers will find plenty of unmistakable references that pay homage to these classic stories. It was done in a way that it wasn’t campy and created instant connections to the story.
The premise of "Devious Deals" holds great promise, combining the elements of a dark romance with the allure of a contemporary fairy tale. However, the fast-paced nature of the story often leaves readers feeling like they need to backtrack to ensure they haven't missed any vital details. The connection between Ari and Kieran feels somewhat lacking, making it difficult to fully invest in their happily ever after. It does make it harder for the reader to connect and understand Keiran.
Overall, "Devious Deals" offers an enjoyable story, it is kiny and fast paced. I wish it had delved deeper into the intricacies of the relationship between the main characters, moving beyond surface-level dynamics.
Enter the captivating world of "Devious Deals," a dark contemporary romance that draws inspiration from the beloved tales of The Little Mermaid and Tarzan. Throughout the story, readers will find plenty of unmistakable references that pay homage to these classic stories. It was done in a way that it wasn’t campy and created instant connections to the story.
The premise of "Devious Deals" holds great promise, combining the elements of a dark romance with the allure of a contemporary fairy tale. However, the fast-paced nature of the story often leaves readers feeling like they need to backtrack to ensure they haven't missed any vital details. The connection between Ari and Kieran feels somewhat lacking, making it difficult to fully invest in their happily ever after. It does make it harder for the reader to connect and understand Keiran.
Overall, "Devious Deals" offers an enjoyable story, it is kiny and fast paced. I wish it had delved deeper into the intricacies of the relationship between the main characters, moving beyond surface-level dynamics.
June 2, 2023
One of my first two ARCs for the month of June and oh my god!! I am so excited i got this.
Sarah Bale has quickly become a favorite author of mine and this story did not disappoint.
Ari and Kieran are fire. Straight steam.
We met Ari in part two of Ellie’s book and I couldn’t wait to read her story. Ari is a the FMC you root for from the beginning and want nothing but her heart to be whole and to not be taken advantage of.
She leaves on touch situation and is thrown into a whole new world (read the book - you’ll get the pun)
Kieran is sex on a stick and he knows it. Very dominant and isn’t afraid to let his freaky side show.
He is up front and someone i know i would call if i was in a situation.
Sarah nails the characters - nails the spice - nails the HEA.
Can’t wait for the next book.
Sarah Bale has quickly become a favorite author of mine and this story did not disappoint.
Ari and Kieran are fire. Straight steam.
We met Ari in part two of Ellie’s book and I couldn’t wait to read her story. Ari is a the FMC you root for from the beginning and want nothing but her heart to be whole and to not be taken advantage of.
She leaves on touch situation and is thrown into a whole new world (read the book - you’ll get the pun)
Kieran is sex on a stick and he knows it. Very dominant and isn’t afraid to let his freaky side show.
He is up front and someone i know i would call if i was in a situation.
Sarah nails the characters - nails the spice - nails the HEA.
Can’t wait for the next book.
June 7, 2023
Oh My Freak’n Gosh I loved this book!!! Sarah Bale has done it again!! Aahhhh I just couldn’t get enough!! Soooo sooo good!! I didn’t want to put it down! 😅
I love Kieran & Ariel sooo much!!! I did have love/hate feelings with Kieran for a while there lol but ended up just loving him!! Ariel aahhh she is freak’n amazing & so strong!! I loved everything about her character!! 💛🖤
Oh my gosh I’m loving this whole series & I can’t wait to read the next book!! Ahhhh Must Freak’n Read!!!🥰🩵🖤
I love Kieran & Ariel sooo much!!! I did have love/hate feelings with Kieran for a while there lol but ended up just loving him!! Ariel aahhh she is freak’n amazing & so strong!! I loved everything about her character!! 💛🖤
Oh my gosh I’m loving this whole series & I can’t wait to read the next book!! Ahhhh Must Freak’n Read!!!🥰🩵🖤
June 13, 2023
From the moment I first saw Ariel in Ellie & Jafar’s book, I immediately wanted her story. I didn’t know anything about her except she was in a dire situation and she had hopes that Kieran would save her. Only, as I started this book, any thoughts I previously had were thrown out the window. Where I once thought he may be her knight in shining armor, was anything but.
The steam is completely out of control in this one. Holy heck, I didn’t realize one kink I loved could be topped or improved. Seriously. So hot. This country girl may never look at a dairy farm the same way again. Because again…sooo hot.
This story, to me, was a little tamer than the first 2 of the series concerning Jafar and Ellie. Where Jafar was undoubtably cruel and savage, Kieran was more cold and calculating. Shutting Ari out at times and withholding his feelings. I didn’t find him nearly as vicious and that helped with my feelings towards him throughout the story. I really loved him and enjoyed his character.
Absolutely loved this story and this series as whole. Everything was done to perfection and incredibly well written. And did I mention it was so freaking hot? I cannot wait to get my hands on the next one so I can finally see what comes of Anna and Odin. 5 Stars.
The steam is completely out of control in this one. Holy heck, I didn’t realize one kink I loved could be topped or improved. Seriously. So hot. This country girl may never look at a dairy farm the same way again. Because again…sooo hot.
This story, to me, was a little tamer than the first 2 of the series concerning Jafar and Ellie. Where Jafar was undoubtably cruel and savage, Kieran was more cold and calculating. Shutting Ari out at times and withholding his feelings. I didn’t find him nearly as vicious and that helped with my feelings towards him throughout the story. I really loved him and enjoyed his character.
Absolutely loved this story and this series as whole. Everything was done to perfection and incredibly well written. And did I mention it was so freaking hot? I cannot wait to get my hands on the next one so I can finally see what comes of Anna and Odin. 5 Stars.
June 11, 2023
this ARC broke my reading slump.
Dare I say this comes very close to beating my love for Jafar and Ellie.
This book made me feel lots… the emotions, the betrayal, all of it. I was not prepared to enjoy reading every part of this book as much as I did. I felt the coldness of the male mc and the heart break of the female mc. And a well deserved appreciation for Seb!! His care for both characters was amazing!
Sarah you once again have made a great read!!
Dare I say this comes very close to beating my love for Jafar and Ellie.
This book made me feel lots… the emotions, the betrayal, all of it. I was not prepared to enjoy reading every part of this book as much as I did. I felt the coldness of the male mc and the heart break of the female mc. And a well deserved appreciation for Seb!! His care for both characters was amazing!
Sarah you once again have made a great read!!
June 15, 2023
Irredeemable Hero…
This book definitely kept me riveted and I started out loving Kieran’s darkness, but when he basically turned a blind eye to Ari actually getting assaulted…he became unforgivable for me. She came to him and showed him an injury and he allowed her to continue to be in the presence of this person because of his own issues. That wasn’t love and, though I finished the book, I don’t see how Ari forgave him.
This book definitely kept me riveted and I started out loving Kieran’s darkness, but when he basically turned a blind eye to Ari actually getting assaulted…he became unforgivable for me. She came to him and showed him an injury and he allowed her to continue to be in the presence of this person because of his own issues. That wasn’t love and, though I finished the book, I don’t see how Ari forgave him.
September 3, 2023
I will be as brief as possible with this review. I didn't connect with the couple. Neither with the kinks nor the dynamic of the relationship. I know this book has some sort of retelling of the Little Mermaid and Tarzan but in the mafia world. The main issue was that it is a fast-paced type of book and that was counterproductive for the plot, there wasn't so much development of the main characters. The ending, after everything was solved, it felt rushed for me. I think he should have grovelled more, I couldn't stand that he turned a blind eye when she was assaulted (making excuses like it was part of his plan and blah blah blah). Honestly, Ari deserves better. Regardless of all of that, this story has few twists that were even expected but still maintain the plot entertaining (at least to make me hurry up and finish the book and not DNF half way). My fave character would be Sebastian. I like Jafar and Ellie's cameos. Winter sounds like an interesting character. Still don't know how to feel about the next book since I'm not really into that kind of trope, but I will give it a chance.
January 23, 2024
I very much enjoyed "Devious Deal". Kiernan is seeking revenge on the one man who stole his high school love many years ago and take what is his now. Kiernan is successful, owning several businesses and making a name for himself in the mafia world; he devises his plan of revenge and takes twenty-year-old Ari. Kiernan has particular "interests" that involve wanting to make babies without making babies and things that involve milk––that's in "Devious Deal," too.
Ari and her sister were not treated well by their father. Ari went from her father to a terribly arranged suitor to Kiernan. But no matter what she and Kiernan did together, she couldn't help falling in love with him.
Kiernan did make me cry several times. He made me mad many times. And I would have liked a tad more groveling on his end, but I loved this story. I found all the Norse God and Greek God names fascinating. I don't read in order, so I'm going back to book 1—maybe I'll jump to the next one because there's a more significant age gap.
Ari and her sister were not treated well by their father. Ari went from her father to a terribly arranged suitor to Kiernan. But no matter what she and Kiernan did together, she couldn't help falling in love with him.
Kiernan did make me cry several times. He made me mad many times. And I would have liked a tad more groveling on his end, but I loved this story. I found all the Norse God and Greek God names fascinating. I don't read in order, so I'm going back to book 1—maybe I'll jump to the next one because there's a more significant age gap.
June 19, 2023
Devious Deals is a contemporary dark romance inspired by The Little Mermaid and Tarzan. There are plenty of obvious references throughout, so it's more than clear what the story is inspired by.
Set to marry Max Erics as repayment for her father's debts, Ari Triton is desperate to escape. Subjected to mental and physical abuse, she is a shell of the girl she once was. But thanks to the kindness of a maid in Vegas, Ari is saved by the Sea Warlock, Kieran Van der Zee. Or so she thinks.
Kieran is brutal and always in control. He bends to no-one, not even his fiancé Jane. But when Ari falls into his lap - quite literally given their contract - he finds it difficult to say no.
I enjoyed the premise, given that I always appreciate a dark romance and contemporary fairy tale. However, I think so much was packed in that the story was so fast paced and there were times I found myself backtracking to ensure I hadn't missed anything. There's a lot of jumps forward over a few months, which left me feeling like I'd missed a lot of the building on both MCs relationship. Because of this, I felt the connection between them was lacking, and I couldn't really advocate for their happily ever after at the end.
I recommend reading the two books that come before this, as I hadn't, so when a lot of characters cropped up, I was a little overwhelmed because I didn't really know who they were. But that's on me, not the author.
Personally, I thought Kieran treated Ari extremely poorly, and there was moments when I wondered why she had feelings for him - going back to the time jumps, if we'd had a bit more of an insight into their time together, I probably would've understood why she was so obsessed. The steam and spice was good and there was some interesting kinks explored, particularly an insight into Dom/sub - however I think this was left behind pretty quickly, and it would've been fun to see a bit more of this as the book went on.
Also, Ari cries, a lot. She's tough at times, particularly towards the end. But damn does she cry - I mean, given the circumstances I can probably understand and would do the same, but it just felt like every few paragraphs she was crying over something. I enjoy a female character with a bit of backbone, particularly when faced with someone like Kieran.
I will say that I loved Sebastian - he was a very good support system for Ari and he also provided a lot of relief when things got too tense. Oh, and he isn't afraid to put his boss in his place, something I wish we'd seen a bit more of from Ari herself!
In all, I enjoyed the story itself, I just wish it went a bit deeper and we discovered more about the deeper aspects of their relationship, rather than what I personally felt was just surface level.
Set to marry Max Erics as repayment for her father's debts, Ari Triton is desperate to escape. Subjected to mental and physical abuse, she is a shell of the girl she once was. But thanks to the kindness of a maid in Vegas, Ari is saved by the Sea Warlock, Kieran Van der Zee. Or so she thinks.
Kieran is brutal and always in control. He bends to no-one, not even his fiancé Jane. But when Ari falls into his lap - quite literally given their contract - he finds it difficult to say no.
I enjoyed the premise, given that I always appreciate a dark romance and contemporary fairy tale. However, I think so much was packed in that the story was so fast paced and there were times I found myself backtracking to ensure I hadn't missed anything. There's a lot of jumps forward over a few months, which left me feeling like I'd missed a lot of the building on both MCs relationship. Because of this, I felt the connection between them was lacking, and I couldn't really advocate for their happily ever after at the end.
I recommend reading the two books that come before this, as I hadn't, so when a lot of characters cropped up, I was a little overwhelmed because I didn't really know who they were. But that's on me, not the author.
Personally, I thought Kieran treated Ari extremely poorly, and there was moments when I wondered why she had feelings for him - going back to the time jumps, if we'd had a bit more of an insight into their time together, I probably would've understood why she was so obsessed. The steam and spice was good and there was some interesting kinks explored, particularly an insight into Dom/sub - however I think this was left behind pretty quickly, and it would've been fun to see a bit more of this as the book went on.
Also, Ari cries, a lot. She's tough at times, particularly towards the end. But damn does she cry - I mean, given the circumstances I can probably understand and would do the same, but it just felt like every few paragraphs she was crying over something. I enjoy a female character with a bit of backbone, particularly when faced with someone like Kieran.
I will say that I loved Sebastian - he was a very good support system for Ari and he also provided a lot of relief when things got too tense. Oh, and he isn't afraid to put his boss in his place, something I wish we'd seen a bit more of from Ari herself!
In all, I enjoyed the story itself, I just wish it went a bit deeper and we discovered more about the deeper aspects of their relationship, rather than what I personally felt was just surface level.
June 19, 2023
Where do I even start with my review? I am at a loss for words with this little gem. I am seriously having a hard time trying to formulate the words I want to write. Sarah Bale has surpassed my expectations with Devious Deals. I am ready to start reading this book again...like right now. Sarah is one of my top three favorite authors and this is why. Every book I have read by Sarah has been an amazing read. The characters she brings to life are captivating and simply grab your attention never letting go. Yes, that is right - I have an attachment to every character from every book that I have read by Sarah. I don't know how she does it, but Sarah creates magic with her words. Kieran and Ari are my favorite couple though I seriously didn't think that was possible after Jafar and Ellie. Even when Kieran is being cruel with his words and actions - I still love him. The reason I love Ari is because she is brave and strong. It takes a special person to still be standing after everything she has experienced. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Bale's Villainous Tales Series.
I didn't want to like Kieran from the moment he was introduced because he was arrogant, pompous and over the top with his desire for revenge. He gave me whiplash with how quickly his emotions changed with Ari. To be fair he was confused because his past still haunted him and kept him from seeing what was right in front of him the whole time. The moments where he was kind, compassionate and shared little pieces of himself with Ari is when my feeling towards Kieran began to change. It didn't hurt that he is seriously a beautiful work of art - an Adonis.
Ari's life gets turned upside down the moment her father decides to sell her for money. It feels like her life is over and as if that wasn't bad enough her future husband is physically and verbally abusive to her. She has one chance out of this mess and that is the Sea Warlock - Kieran Van der Zee. Nothing comes for free and there is contract that awaits her upon arriving at his home. It is a high price to pay, but it is better than the life time of misery her father secured for her. The one bright spot in all of this is Sebastian Kieran's second in command. The friendship they form over time is the one thing that keeps her moving forward and brings her peace. Will Kieran realize what his true feelings for Ari are before it is too late or is he going to forfeit their chance at a happily ever after?
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I didn't want to like Kieran from the moment he was introduced because he was arrogant, pompous and over the top with his desire for revenge. He gave me whiplash with how quickly his emotions changed with Ari. To be fair he was confused because his past still haunted him and kept him from seeing what was right in front of him the whole time. The moments where he was kind, compassionate and shared little pieces of himself with Ari is when my feeling towards Kieran began to change. It didn't hurt that he is seriously a beautiful work of art - an Adonis.
Ari's life gets turned upside down the moment her father decides to sell her for money. It feels like her life is over and as if that wasn't bad enough her future husband is physically and verbally abusive to her. She has one chance out of this mess and that is the Sea Warlock - Kieran Van der Zee. Nothing comes for free and there is contract that awaits her upon arriving at his home. It is a high price to pay, but it is better than the life time of misery her father secured for her. The one bright spot in all of this is Sebastian Kieran's second in command. The friendship they form over time is the one thing that keeps her moving forward and brings her peace. Will Kieran realize what his true feelings for Ari are before it is too late or is he going to forfeit their chance at a happily ever after?
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 3, 2023
This book had so much potential. But the hero spends the entire book pushing the heroine away.
The hero has a "hucow" and "breastmilk" fetish.
I'm going to spoil the entire book below. Huge spoilers.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
..
.
,
,
The heroine's father is forcing her to marry an abusive man. He beats her repeatedly. She asks the hero for help. He helps her but only if she agrees to have sex with him and then after he's "trained" her she will marry a man he chooses for her.
The hero dated her mother in high school and loved her mother. Her mother was pregnant with the hero's child. Her father and the hero's mentor forced her mother to abort his baby. He wants revenge.
The heroine knows nothing about her mother and the hero's former relationship.
They start a BDSM relationship. He picks out her clothes. He introduces her to his "milking" and "breastmilk" fetish, even though she doesn't make any milk, he just suctions her nipples all the time.
The heroine tells him she loves him. He is angry and says that wasn't her deal. She tries again to tell him she loves him. He arranges her marriage to a dying old man instead.
The heroine goes to get an STD test before her wedding and it turns out she is pregnant with the hero's baby. The hero had been trying to get her pregnant on purpose, and the heroine didn't know. She thought she was taking birth control pills. Instead she was taking fertility supplements.
During all of this, the hero has been engaged to his mentor's daughter for years. He gives her a huge engagement ring and they are planning their wedding. Heroine is devastated.
Basically the hero spends all his time pushing the heroine away while she chases after him and begs him to love her.
The heroine deserved better.
The hero has a "hucow" and "breastmilk" fetish.
I'm going to spoil the entire book below. Huge spoilers.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
,
..
.
,
,
The heroine's father is forcing her to marry an abusive man. He beats her repeatedly. She asks the hero for help. He helps her but only if she agrees to have sex with him and then after he's "trained" her she will marry a man he chooses for her.
The hero dated her mother in high school and loved her mother. Her mother was pregnant with the hero's child. Her father and the hero's mentor forced her mother to abort his baby. He wants revenge.
The heroine knows nothing about her mother and the hero's former relationship.
They start a BDSM relationship. He picks out her clothes. He introduces her to his "milking" and "breastmilk" fetish, even though she doesn't make any milk, he just suctions her nipples all the time.
The heroine tells him she loves him. He is angry and says that wasn't her deal. She tries again to tell him she loves him. He arranges her marriage to a dying old man instead.
The heroine goes to get an STD test before her wedding and it turns out she is pregnant with the hero's baby. The hero had been trying to get her pregnant on purpose, and the heroine didn't know. She thought she was taking birth control pills. Instead she was taking fertility supplements.
During all of this, the hero has been engaged to his mentor's daughter for years. He gives her a huge engagement ring and they are planning their wedding. Heroine is devastated.
Basically the hero spends all his time pushing the heroine away while she chases after him and begs him to love her.
The heroine deserved better.
June 22, 2023
Deliciously Dark and Deviously Delectable
Holy hell, the book hangover is epic! Once again, Sarah Bale has taken a frilly fairytale and molded it into a deliciously dark, and deviously delectable, bedtime-busting deep-dive into a world I cannot get enough of. Devious Deals is salacious and steamy, evoking a chaos of emotions, and I didn’t know how badly I needed this HEA until I got it!
Kieran and Ari are so beautifully deep and vulnerable and conflicted and intense. So perfectly opposite yet so intentionally fated. And there are so many twists and turns in this novel, both within their relationship and surrounding it. The level of unexpected connectivity in the interwoven fairytales in this novel brings an added layer of texture and depth to the unexpected storyline, spinning it out of control before wrapping it into an intricate web of closure and revenge and deceit and longing and love.
Bale has an incredible way of building characters with depth and authenticity, bringing out qualities through their interactions that evoke solid, intense, often guttural reactions from her other characters as well as her readers. These are not the characters you remember from growing up. They are sooo much more.
If you like dark romance, this novel will sink into your soul. But, please pay very close attention to the author’s note and content warning. The escape this story provides is intense, with no cliffhanger, and a guaranteed HEA (but damn, do they go through it all for it). It can be read as a standalone, but will be much better appreciated and enjoyed if the reader understands the context surrounding it and the world it’s built into, so reading Bale’s Bedtime Stories and books 1 and 2 of Bale’s Villainous Tales is highly recommended.
Holy hell, the book hangover is epic! Once again, Sarah Bale has taken a frilly fairytale and molded it into a deliciously dark, and deviously delectable, bedtime-busting deep-dive into a world I cannot get enough of. Devious Deals is salacious and steamy, evoking a chaos of emotions, and I didn’t know how badly I needed this HEA until I got it!
Kieran and Ari are so beautifully deep and vulnerable and conflicted and intense. So perfectly opposite yet so intentionally fated. And there are so many twists and turns in this novel, both within their relationship and surrounding it. The level of unexpected connectivity in the interwoven fairytales in this novel brings an added layer of texture and depth to the unexpected storyline, spinning it out of control before wrapping it into an intricate web of closure and revenge and deceit and longing and love.
Bale has an incredible way of building characters with depth and authenticity, bringing out qualities through their interactions that evoke solid, intense, often guttural reactions from her other characters as well as her readers. These are not the characters you remember from growing up. They are sooo much more.
If you like dark romance, this novel will sink into your soul. But, please pay very close attention to the author’s note and content warning. The escape this story provides is intense, with no cliffhanger, and a guaranteed HEA (but damn, do they go through it all for it). It can be read as a standalone, but will be much better appreciated and enjoyed if the reader understands the context surrounding it and the world it’s built into, so reading Bale’s Bedtime Stories and books 1 and 2 of Bale’s Villainous Tales is highly recommended.
June 14, 2023
Is it to early to say I found my book of the year!?! 🫣🫢😲🥵🥰🥺😟😭💔😳🙂🥹😊🥰
I shouldn't be so surprised at how excellent this book is because Sarah wrote it. She's definitely climbed into my top 5 authors, her books have become mandatory reading! She somehow puts you into Ariel's soul so you go through every emotion with her. From the hell she was in with Max, the fear and dispare were palpable. The desire she found discovering a new kink, the love she had for Keiren, to the fear she had because of Clayton, to the heartbreak and devastation caused by Keiren, and eventually the pure happiness and joy she found in England. Keiren is a tough nut to crack but once you see past his gruffiness you see how loving, thoughtful and protective he is. You know by the end how lucky Keiren is to have such a wonderful woman by his side. (In case you can't tell Ariel was a great heroine for me!) I loved these two together because they compliment each other and make the other one better. It was great to see Jafar and Ellie too. BTW how much do we end up loving Seb and want one of our own!
“I will love you until the last breath leaves my body.” 😊
I am leaving my honest review for a complimentary copy of this book via the author.
I shouldn't be so surprised at how excellent this book is because Sarah wrote it. She's definitely climbed into my top 5 authors, her books have become mandatory reading! She somehow puts you into Ariel's soul so you go through every emotion with her. From the hell she was in with Max, the fear and dispare were palpable. The desire she found discovering a new kink, the love she had for Keiren, to the fear she had because of Clayton, to the heartbreak and devastation caused by Keiren, and eventually the pure happiness and joy she found in England. Keiren is a tough nut to crack but once you see past his gruffiness you see how loving, thoughtful and protective he is. You know by the end how lucky Keiren is to have such a wonderful woman by his side. (In case you can't tell Ariel was a great heroine for me!) I loved these two together because they compliment each other and make the other one better. It was great to see Jafar and Ellie too. BTW how much do we end up loving Seb and want one of our own!
“I will love you until the last breath leaves my body.” 😊
I am leaving my honest review for a complimentary copy of this book via the author.
June 18, 2023
Rating-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice-🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
I loved this Little Mermaid/Tarzan retelling! All go Sarah’s mafia Disney retellings have been so good. There’s something about a book with lots of different little puzzle pieces and the way they come together in the end that’s just so satisfying, and Sarah accomplishes that so well in this book in particular. Let’s dive in!
Ariel Triton was sold by her father to a cruel mafia soldier. The only way she could escape his clutches is by the assistance of the ruthless Sea Warlock. But it comes at a price. One year as his sex slave, and then she will marry someone of his choosing. But their kinks align so well, and she starts developing feelings for him.
Kieran Van Der Zee is 1/3 of the mafia leaders that run New York. He has a reputation of being cold and detached. He takes in unfortunate souls and offers them deals but only in a way that benefits him and his businesses. When little Ariel Triton comes along begging for help, all he can see is revenge for the actions her parents caused years before she was even born. Will he be able to resist her when their kinks work so well together? Will he be able to truly detach when it’s time for her to marry another when they have such a sorted history? Will all of this history and revenge that Ariel is completely unaware of turn her away for good?
Spice-🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
I loved this Little Mermaid/Tarzan retelling! All go Sarah’s mafia Disney retellings have been so good. There’s something about a book with lots of different little puzzle pieces and the way they come together in the end that’s just so satisfying, and Sarah accomplishes that so well in this book in particular. Let’s dive in!
Ariel Triton was sold by her father to a cruel mafia soldier. The only way she could escape his clutches is by the assistance of the ruthless Sea Warlock. But it comes at a price. One year as his sex slave, and then she will marry someone of his choosing. But their kinks align so well, and she starts developing feelings for him.
Kieran Van Der Zee is 1/3 of the mafia leaders that run New York. He has a reputation of being cold and detached. He takes in unfortunate souls and offers them deals but only in a way that benefits him and his businesses. When little Ariel Triton comes along begging for help, all he can see is revenge for the actions her parents caused years before she was even born. Will he be able to resist her when their kinks work so well together? Will he be able to truly detach when it’s time for her to marry another when they have such a sorted history? Will all of this history and revenge that Ariel is completely unaware of turn her away for good?
June 28, 2023
This whole series is a 5⭐️ for me, I am so invested I love it all! whew, I think this book was hotter than the last two, is that even possible?! 🥵
This puts a spin on Little Mermaid meets Tarzan, I love all the little hints that tie this into a modern fairytale retelling with a brand new spin. We are still in the mafia world with Kieran, he is a billionaire who owns a sex club. Ariel "Ari" runs to him for help as she is trying to escape from her arranged marriage with Max Erics. She has been thru alot of emotional and physical trauma due to him. Kieran offers Ari a contract to assist - There are quite a few stipulations which ultimately lead into a Dom/sub role together... among some other kinks 😉
However, Kieran was not all sunshine and rainbows. He was quite cold to Ari, there were hardly any emotions shown to her. But I do love that we get his POV in the chapters as well, so we know that is truly not how he is feeling on the inside. He is torn between his developing feelings for her and pursuing his ultimate revenge plan that involves her.
I loved the added twist with Clayton and his father as well - This book was so entertaining from start to finish! Such a fast pace, I was never disappointed - highly recommend!
This puts a spin on Little Mermaid meets Tarzan, I love all the little hints that tie this into a modern fairytale retelling with a brand new spin. We are still in the mafia world with Kieran, he is a billionaire who owns a sex club. Ariel "Ari" runs to him for help as she is trying to escape from her arranged marriage with Max Erics. She has been thru alot of emotional and physical trauma due to him. Kieran offers Ari a contract to assist - There are quite a few stipulations which ultimately lead into a Dom/sub role together... among some other kinks 😉
However, Kieran was not all sunshine and rainbows. He was quite cold to Ari, there were hardly any emotions shown to her. But I do love that we get his POV in the chapters as well, so we know that is truly not how he is feeling on the inside. He is torn between his developing feelings for her and pursuing his ultimate revenge plan that involves her.
I loved the added twist with Clayton and his father as well - This book was so entertaining from start to finish! Such a fast pace, I was never disappointed - highly recommend!
June 2, 2023
5⭐️ 2🌶️
I was NOT prepared to feel so… hurt? while reading this! Some of the things Kieran would say or how cold he could be when he got scared of his own feelings, made me tear up for Ari. 🥺
I adored Ari, she was the perfect mixture of naive yet strong. She was desperate to get out of an abusive arrangement but wanted to protect her younger sisters at the same time.
Kieran took a bit for me to like honestly. He could be a brute but then he would soften for short moments and I’ll be damned if it didn’t make me fall for the asshole. His plans for revenge kept getting lost while his feelings (that he would swear up and down he didn’t have 😂) only grew and that would cause him to lash out. I loved when Seb would call him out too!
I understood his need for revenge honestly. Could he have gone about it in a different way? Absolutely. Would it have been as interesting? Not at all. Because once that man was committed to winning back his woman, he pulled out alllll the stops. 😍
I enjoyed their story so much and seeing cameos of past/present characters! Especially Jafar and Ellie 🥹 I can’t wait for Anna and Odin’s book!!
I was NOT prepared to feel so… hurt? while reading this! Some of the things Kieran would say or how cold he could be when he got scared of his own feelings, made me tear up for Ari. 🥺
I adored Ari, she was the perfect mixture of naive yet strong. She was desperate to get out of an abusive arrangement but wanted to protect her younger sisters at the same time.
Kieran took a bit for me to like honestly. He could be a brute but then he would soften for short moments and I’ll be damned if it didn’t make me fall for the asshole. His plans for revenge kept getting lost while his feelings (that he would swear up and down he didn’t have 😂) only grew and that would cause him to lash out. I loved when Seb would call him out too!
I understood his need for revenge honestly. Could he have gone about it in a different way? Absolutely. Would it have been as interesting? Not at all. Because once that man was committed to winning back his woman, he pulled out alllll the stops. 😍
I enjoyed their story so much and seeing cameos of past/present characters! Especially Jafar and Ellie 🥹 I can’t wait for Anna and Odin’s book!!
June 14, 2023
Devious Deals, the third book in the Bale’s Villainous Tales series by Sarah Bale is a definite must read for anyone that loves dark mafia romances mixed with fairy tale fantasies as it hits every single note and does not stop till the very end!!!
If you’ve been around this world before, then you should remember Ariel from Savage Secrets, and man am I glad we finally got her story!!! Ari’s story is utterly riveting and full of dark delicious kinky goodness and lots of heat with a few twists along the way that will keep you on the edge of your seat in anticipation and excitement. Just be prepared you may experience some heavy soul wrenching emotional despair a time or two as Ari and Kieran come together and slowly start to make magic happen! And try not to cut Kieran out too soon lol
If you love retellings, with a heavy mafia influence, a sexy alpha male and a fierce heroine that has overcome so much then this is the one for you! Needless to say Bale has done it once again and I can't wait for the next book in this standalone connected series! Just be sure to check for triggers before diving in!
If you’ve been around this world before, then you should remember Ariel from Savage Secrets, and man am I glad we finally got her story!!! Ari’s story is utterly riveting and full of dark delicious kinky goodness and lots of heat with a few twists along the way that will keep you on the edge of your seat in anticipation and excitement. Just be prepared you may experience some heavy soul wrenching emotional despair a time or two as Ari and Kieran come together and slowly start to make magic happen! And try not to cut Kieran out too soon lol
If you love retellings, with a heavy mafia influence, a sexy alpha male and a fierce heroine that has overcome so much then this is the one for you! Needless to say Bale has done it once again and I can't wait for the next book in this standalone connected series! Just be sure to check for triggers before diving in!
July 9, 2023
Devious Deals by Sarah Bale is definitely one of my fav reads in 2023. It's been so long since I read a smutty book as sexy as this one. Usually, I'm not a major fan of heavily smutty book, but this one is surprisingly better than I have expected. I enjoyed it so much to the point I finished reading the whole story in just one seating.
In the story, in order to escape from her abusive fiance, Ari made a deal with Kieran to protect herself without knowing that she's nothing but a pawn to his revenge game. If I'm being honest, I liked Devious Deals more than the previous books. This book serves an interesting storyline that deals with Kieran's revenge and his growing feelings towards Ari. The fact that Sarah also included OW drama too makes it so much fun to read.
Now, if I have to compare between Kieran and Jafar, I have to say that Kieran is way sexier. Sorry, but this man is such a daddy. Is it wrong if I said that I kinda wish I made a deal with Kieran too? He can 🥛🐮💦💦 me anything he wants.
I can certainly say that Devious Deals is a great story if you're in the mood for a steamy read. In fact this book brought me out of my slump. I definitely recommend it. Also, the crumbs that Sarah gave us for the next book? Yeah, I'm seated alright. Can't wait!
In the story, in order to escape from her abusive fiance, Ari made a deal with Kieran to protect herself without knowing that she's nothing but a pawn to his revenge game. If I'm being honest, I liked Devious Deals more than the previous books. This book serves an interesting storyline that deals with Kieran's revenge and his growing feelings towards Ari. The fact that Sarah also included OW drama too makes it so much fun to read.
Now, if I have to compare between Kieran and Jafar, I have to say that Kieran is way sexier. Sorry, but this man is such a daddy. Is it wrong if I said that I kinda wish I made a deal with Kieran too? He can 🥛🐮💦💦 me anything he wants.
I can certainly say that Devious Deals is a great story if you're in the mood for a steamy read. In fact this book brought me out of my slump. I definitely recommend it. Also, the crumbs that Sarah gave us for the next book? Yeah, I'm seated alright. Can't wait!
February 6, 2024
I've read the fourth book before this one so I can say that the author writes the same characters and plots. Her heroines are weak. Her heroes are extremely dumb (in all 4 books, they believe the lies of the characters they don't trust about the heroine - like seriously they need a brain transplant - putting the heroine in danger).
Worst of all, in the books (minus the last one), the heroine is sexually assaulted and the author sweeps it under the rug and it's never confronted.
This series is a major case of alphaholes being cruel for the sake of it because their actions make no sense.
Also, big fucking eww, the hero in this one, was in love and got pregnant the heroine's mother. Just no. Like I love dark romances and I don't mind BDSM and kinks, but this is disgusting. The heroine looks like her mother and that's why the hero beds her. Eww. And he gets her pregnant without her knowledge. She is so dumb and weak that she doesn't really care. Girl you need a restriction order and to move in another country under a false identity AND FAST.
Worst of all, in the books (minus the last one), the heroine is sexually assaulted and the author sweeps it under the rug and it's never confronted.
This series is a major case of alphaholes being cruel for the sake of it because their actions make no sense.
Also, big fucking eww, the hero in this one, was in love and got pregnant the heroine's mother. Just no. Like I love dark romances and I don't mind BDSM and kinks, but this is disgusting. The heroine looks like her mother and that's why the hero beds her. Eww. And he gets her pregnant without her knowledge. She is so dumb and weak that she doesn't really care. Girl you need a restriction order and to move in another country under a false identity AND FAST.
January 4, 2025
Sarah Bale, you've done it again!
I don't know why this book sat for so long on my TBR pile. I've been in such a reading slump because of life in general and just haven't been able to get through any books. My last 3 were DNF'd. This one, however? Absolutely not! I was hooked from the first chapter in! I mean, how can you not be when the author so creatively slams the two right together?
Kieren is EVERYTHING in terms of morally grey men, and Ari is so much fun. Seb? Omgoodness, the most adorable brat.
There's sex, yes (it is a spicy book, after all) but sooo much more! Not only is the cover art itself fabulous, but Sarah strings a wonderfully dark tale together that makes you feel like you're right there. I cannot tell you how many times I giggled, squeaked, and even (on occasion) growled "WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?!"
If you like dark romances, and also retellings, along with a dash (or several) of hot mafia men, then this one is for you! Just make sure to read the triggers!
I don't know why this book sat for so long on my TBR pile. I've been in such a reading slump because of life in general and just haven't been able to get through any books. My last 3 were DNF'd. This one, however? Absolutely not! I was hooked from the first chapter in! I mean, how can you not be when the author so creatively slams the two right together?
Kieren is EVERYTHING in terms of morally grey men, and Ari is so much fun. Seb? Omgoodness, the most adorable brat.
There's sex, yes (it is a spicy book, after all) but sooo much more! Not only is the cover art itself fabulous, but Sarah strings a wonderfully dark tale together that makes you feel like you're right there. I cannot tell you how many times I giggled, squeaked, and even (on occasion) growled "WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?!"
If you like dark romances, and also retellings, along with a dash (or several) of hot mafia men, then this one is for you! Just make sure to read the triggers!
June 27, 2025
Loved this spin on the little mermaid!
It’s an age gape, BDSM (D/s), hucow, mafia romance.
This story is heavy, definitely check the trigger warnings down below. The relationship between Ariel, and honestly everyone who matters, is so wonderful. She is a very thoughtful character who tends to put others first, even to her own detriment. Kieran is much the same, he’s just a bit jaded from his own sad past; that he eventually gets past with Ariel’s help. The spice is FAST, while the romance is slower, especially on Kieran‘s side, but who doesn’t love a villain who falls hard?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, Vomit, Stalking, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Confinement, Terminal illness, Death of parent
Minor: Cancer, Sexual assault, Abortion
It’s an age gape, BDSM (D/s), hucow, mafia romance.
This story is heavy, definitely check the trigger warnings down below. The relationship between Ariel, and honestly everyone who matters, is so wonderful. She is a very thoughtful character who tends to put others first, even to her own detriment. Kieran is much the same, he’s just a bit jaded from his own sad past; that he eventually gets past with Ariel’s help. The spice is FAST, while the romance is slower, especially on Kieran‘s side, but who doesn’t love a villain who falls hard?
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, Vomit, Stalking, Murder, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Confinement, Terminal illness, Death of parent
Minor: Cancer, Sexual assault, Abortion
June 8, 2023
Sarah Bale has sucked me into another book and made me absolutely love it. I both loved and hated Kieran and there were multiple times that I wanted smack him upside the head. Thankfully I ended up absolutely loving him by the end. Ariel was such a sweetheart and I so just wanted to give her a hug multiple times throughout the book. I will say that the chemistry between these two was absolute fire and I was living for those spicy scenes!
Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. I was so engrossed in the book that by the time I realized how late it was I only had about 25 minutes left to read. So of course I decided to just stay up a little longer to finish it. Needless to say I was just a little tired at work the next day, but it was totally worth it. I have loved every book in this series so far and I can’t wait for the next one!
Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. I was so engrossed in the book that by the time I realized how late it was I only had about 25 minutes left to read. So of course I decided to just stay up a little longer to finish it. Needless to say I was just a little tired at work the next day, but it was totally worth it. I have loved every book in this series so far and I can’t wait for the next one!
June 14, 2023
Sarah Bale is definitely my favorite author when it comes to Disney story retellings where she puts her own twist on it that pulls me in so quickly that I devour every single one of her books in this series in a day! Kieran and Ariel may have just knocked Jafar and Ellie out of the top spot as my favorite characters because the story Sarah weaved around these two left me completely captivated and consumed that I had to keep flipping the pages to find out if they were going to get their HEA.
My heart hurt so much for Ari and the situation she found herself in after her father marries her off for money. She needs help, and the only person who can protect her is none other than the Sea Warlock, Kieran. But there’s a price to pay for that safety. Is she willing to gamble her life and give into her temptations for his protection? When we get more background on why Kieran is so arrogant and cruel toward Ariel, it makes his actions understandable in a way. But when he started to soften up toward Ari and ultimately worship her, it left me a giddy mess. And don’t even get me started on those spicy scenes!
I absolutely adored Sebastian and the friendship he formed with Ariel and how he would smack some sense into Kieran. He was the perfect go-between for these two! I can’t wait for the next book in the Bale’s Villainous Tales series just from the little breadcrumbs left behind!
My heart hurt so much for Ari and the situation she found herself in after her father marries her off for money. She needs help, and the only person who can protect her is none other than the Sea Warlock, Kieran. But there’s a price to pay for that safety. Is she willing to gamble her life and give into her temptations for his protection? When we get more background on why Kieran is so arrogant and cruel toward Ariel, it makes his actions understandable in a way. But when he started to soften up toward Ari and ultimately worship her, it left me a giddy mess. And don’t even get me started on those spicy scenes!
I absolutely adored Sebastian and the friendship he formed with Ariel and how he would smack some sense into Kieran. He was the perfect go-between for these two! I can’t wait for the next book in the Bale’s Villainous Tales series just from the little breadcrumbs left behind!
June 8, 2023
Oh my god!
I’ll be Kieran Van der Zee’s pet any day!! 🥵
I KNEW this book was going to be epic and I was not wrong! Talk about angst, I thought I may just throw my kindle waiting for Kieran to admit he loves her, but whooo that was amazing!
I think my favorite was watching Ari make him sweat it out a little bit and all the groveling he had to do that was just amazing!
I will say the milk room was kinda new for me (and I mean kinda as in I may have read 1 or 2 other books with that involved) but strangely I was great it 🤣
I loved the little peak we got of Jafar (I love him so much from the first books in this series/world)
Devious Deals for all my mafia/dark romance lovers is one you NEED
I’ll be Kieran Van der Zee’s pet any day!! 🥵
I KNEW this book was going to be epic and I was not wrong! Talk about angst, I thought I may just throw my kindle waiting for Kieran to admit he loves her, but whooo that was amazing!
I think my favorite was watching Ari make him sweat it out a little bit and all the groveling he had to do that was just amazing!
I will say the milk room was kinda new for me (and I mean kinda as in I may have read 1 or 2 other books with that involved) but strangely I was great it 🤣
I loved the little peak we got of Jafar (I love him so much from the first books in this series/world)
Devious Deals for all my mafia/dark romance lovers is one you NEED
June 19, 2023
The third installment of Sarah Bale’s Villainous Tales is decidedly devious and delicious. For fans of fairytale re-visionings, this one answers the question, “What if Arielle fell for the Sea Witch?” Or rather, the Sea Witch’s super dominant, extremely hot protégé and successor, Kieran Van der Zee—the villain you must love.
Bale takes her tale into deep and steamy waters. As with previous installments, this is absolutely a DARK romance!
While there is much to be enjoyed if you stumble into it out of order, Devious Deals continues the storyline established in previous Villainous Tales and is best enjoyed read in order. Seriously, I highly recommend beginning with Bale’s Bedtime Stories, and bingeing it. You won’t be sorry.
Bale takes her tale into deep and steamy waters. As with previous installments, this is absolutely a DARK romance!
While there is much to be enjoyed if you stumble into it out of order, Devious Deals continues the storyline established in previous Villainous Tales and is best enjoyed read in order. Seriously, I highly recommend beginning with Bale’s Bedtime Stories, and bingeing it. You won’t be sorry.
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