Payback: Lords of Chaos MC

Road to Carnage #5

by Nicholas Bella

Having fallen way too deep in love with the Castiello's assassin, Akari Himura, Fabian “Burger” Murphy has to figure out how to get his club to approve his relationship. However, he’s getting pushback from everyone, from his older brother, to his father, telling him that he needs to break up with Akari. Time is running out for him to make his decision. Will he choose the one man in his life he can’t live without? Or the club that has given his very existence meaning? Nothing and no one is ever out of Makade-Ma’iingan “Wolf” Sanders’ league. The president of the Chicago chapter of the Lords of Chaos has set his sights high, and they have landed on the Right-Hand Man of the Castiello family’s underboss, Demir Balik. Despite all the warnings to stay away, Wolf can’t. He loves the chase, it’s in his blood. But he may have pursued the wrong type of prey this time. Demir is a force of nature and Wolf finds himself in quite the predicament. Vito “The Vise” Castiello has a lot on his plate right now. The takeover of a major city’s crime business being his biggest priority. However, the minx at his side is changing him little by little, giving him happiness in a way he’d never thought he’d experience. However, things get rocky when his lover, Zindel Esai, plays a game he’s not willing to participate in. Vito is a passionate man and wants what he wants, and that’s to be in control. But can The Vise loosen up just a bit to let his minx love him? Prison is a lonely place, especially having been behind those walls for nearly five years. It doesn’t help when Tim “Tiny Tim” Davis has to see his club brother and prospect share a love he envies on a daily basis. One day, he gets a new cellmate, someone so stunning, that he leaves Tiny Tim speechless. Immediately, he knows that he wants this man, and has to have him. Luckily for TT, this vulnerable inmate needs someone to protect him, and that’s the hook he uses to reel the new fish in.

Warning : Serial series where each book should be read in order for your ultimate enjoyment. Mature readers only as these bad boys party hard and play dirty. Outlaw MC life, Prison life, Mafia, Dark themes. Graphic violence. Strong adult situations. Colorful and intense language. HFN/HEA. Reader discretion is advised.

Genres: M M Romance, Crime

316 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 31, 2023

About the author

About The Maniac Who Wrote These Books:

I'm the author of deliciously dark, sexy, and thrilling MM fiction in various genres. I corrupt readers with salacious tales of possessive men staking their claims on the men who make their blood rise in certain places. I know... I should be ashamed, but I'm shameless. I'm a public menace that can't be stopped, and my characters are rude, sassy, charming, arrogant, and hotter than sinners in hell. They tell me what they want and I follow orders. When I'm not hunched over my keyboard typing away, I love to watch movies and TV shows (You should check out my reviews.)
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Reviews

[Lea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given a free copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is Book 5 in the Road to Carnage series, but it's the first book in the series I've read.

Each chapter follows one of four specific characters (Burger, Wolf, Vito, and TT) and is written from the third-person limited viewpoint, with some roving between characters here and there. This story does not have an overarching plot with a beginning, middle, and end; instead, the story covers the progression of the sexual relationships the lead characters of each chapter are in.

Because there isn't much of an overarching plotline, it was not difficult for me to follow what was happening in this book despite being new to the series. Through context, I could deduce that this is a romance about particular members of various "crime" organizations—the mafia, assassins, a biker club, and others. That said, the details about each organization and how they function is left a little bare.

The writing is very straightforward and direct, with few descriptions of settings, feelings, and body language. There is also plenty of coarse language, overuse of commas, and frequent use of the word "said." You get the sense of each character's surface-level personality and what they project into the world, but never learn about their deeper identity or individuality.

There are many sexual scenes, but the sexual tension between characters is not built up through any means except for the writing stating that it's definitely there. The sex is initiated and completed quickly with little preamble. For me, most of the scenes didn't feel very sexy. They were over too fast and lacked context.

My favorite couple in the book was TT and Ajay. I liked that there was some foreplay and kissing before they moved on to the next thing, because it gave an opportunity for Ajay to be a little breathless and for the writing to share that with us. I like when I can get a better understanding of what a character is feeling about their particular partner aside from "horny," and descriptors of things like body language really help with that.

2.5 stars that I'll round up to 3 - this style of book might be for someone, but it's not for me. I prefer characters with more depth and individuality shown on the page, and I would've liked to have seen an overarching plotline in the book.

[JJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you,
Nicholas bella
I was lucky to read (payback) ARC

Well, this is the best series Nicholas
I love the chemistry between all the characters
The hot sex romance made me laugh
Wolf and Demir, wow, what chemistry they have and did make me laugh

The parts in the prison are so good as well

I do love the romance and hot sex between Vito and lovely Zindel
Love to see a Vito and Zindel have a book there. Story, please

Thank you Nicholas if I could be 100 stars 🌟

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars

It was a great honor to get an ARC for this book.

Nicholas Bella gives his heart and soul to his men and they give us their dark love and violence. What I love the most and if you’re a true Bella reader you know we get to catch up with all his men and know what’s going on in their lives.

Payback is book 5 in the Lords of Chaos MC and really should be read in order for ULTIMATE reading pleasure and believe me it was pleasurable.

[Manuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these characters, pretty much all of them. This series has grown on me. It's like watching a telenovella in my head while reading chapter after chapter. I can't get enough of them and hate every time a book ends but I am hooked, totally.
I wouldn't recommend to start with this one as it builds on characters from previous books, but if you're just a slightest bit like me and have unconventional reading patterns, you won't have a problem keeping the members of two different chapters of the Lords of Chaos, namely Chicago and Orlando, separated. Add to it the two branches of the mafia family Castiello and you might get what I mean. The main couples in this installment are Vito and Zindel, Burger and Akari, Wolf and Demir and Tiny Tim and Ajay. Any appearances of previous characters are cherries on top of the cream. It's plenty of names to get confused about, since they have their real names and the club names they go by, but if you're getting into the stories of the different couples you'll get the hang of it. Vito and Zindel have been at it since at least the last book but their banter is really funny and Zindel just knows how to get what he wants from his man. Burger and Akari have a bit of "Romeo and Julia" thing going on, I seriously was worried about them but Wolf and Demir made up for it. I enjoyed reading about the cat and mouse game they had going on. Tiny Tim is such a sweetheart and gentleman, I hope Ajay is the guy for him even though I have a bad feeling. This is the serious shite of reading Nicholas Bella books, those horrid cliffhangers. The love of episodicals is strong in this one.
The five stars are for the entertainment factor, the hot sex, the funny dialogues and the characters. I am in awe of the world building.


******I won this ARC ******

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

God, where do I start?The Lords of Chaos MC’s are hard men. Meaning they live hard, play hard, and love even harder. From the beginning I was captivated by them and their way of life. They live by their own rules of honor and Loyalty is paramount. These men give new meaning to term Possessive Alpha Males. I Love it!

This book was Riveting in every way imaginable. After reading about Ace (Noah Murphy) and Kenshin, Dragon (Diego Murphy) and Richie, and Ze (Zaire Esau) and Tiger (Colton Bridger) in the first books I was hooked. We’re talking several characters embroiled in their own stories within the Lords of Chaos. I needed to know more. I wanted all the gritty, dirty and sometimes softer sides of these men. Well, Nicholas did not disappoint.

Book 5 focuses on us catching up with Burger (Fabian Murphy) and Akari, as well as Zindel (Minx) and Vito’s “The Vise” , Wolf (Makade Sanders) and Demir’s relationships. Their different stories take place in Chicago and Tampa. Each of these men were faced with obstacles regarding their chosen relationships and their families legacies and loyalties. Every time you think “oh I see where this is going” the story takes another twist. I mean “The Italian Mob”…Seriously?? I was over the moon about their entanglements with the and them falling for very unconventional men. I have to say I was a bit surprised how much I enjoyed the vicious ruthlessness that was needed to demonstrate a show of Power and control. This book was AHMAZING and I gave it 5 stars.

[Daria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so enjoyed this book, Nicholas' new release, and book 5 to an already great series. Payback is all that the characters, and the storyline all top tier.
The continuing story of some serious bad boy males. The Mafia, The MC. Bosses and Bosses meet, negotiate and make things happen, and with each, it's all about family.
The Prison - the Big bads are chillin' and maintaining their lives while behind bars. Most stay clear of them but you know there is always one that needs to be reminded who the Lords are.
The PA -I love him soo much. *smiles* not like Sweetcheeks has his own big bad pretty much wrapped around his finger. I love Zin and V's story.
The Wolf... the Assassin. dude OMG! oh, he was told he didn't wanna none of that big bad, but no the Wolf needed to tap that... and tap it he did, the Assassin whew.. clever genius perfect in his plan.
The couple - love has no restrictions. It knows no bounds. These two know they are in dangerous waters. And when the Pres gives the ultimatum... will it be love or family?
Each character continues to bring *IT* to the story, the love of family. The personalities are layered with love, respect, loyalty, and a bit of cockiness. Lethal and loved. Agreements and alliances solidified.

Nicholas job well done! If you haven't started this amazing series you should. It's very much worth the read. Enjoy

[Gale MR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when you think the Road to Carnage has shown you all the treats and tricks, all the unconventional bondings and relationships and you think you have seen it all, a simple new twist sends you spiralling in a new direction. It's time for Payback! Being in a 1% MC means always living on the edge and far beyond the low lvls of pain, sacrifice, vengeance and risk. But even bikers aren't immune to the trials of love and when they love, it's a love like no other - unleashing untamed beast who won't stop until he claims what he feels its his. Fierce, protective, possessive love is a special stamp of Nicholas Bella's world building. It burns so strong and bright, it obliterates everyone that stays in the way. The way this author builds up the relationships of his characters, often pushes the boundaries of what's conventionally socially acceptable. The characters often make questionable morally grey choices. And every hit means there is a payback, doesn't it?

[Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first story I’ve read by this author. I wish I had looked more into it being in a series but regretfully I didn’t. Now I have to catch up.
This story can be read as a standalone but getting familiar with the previous stories would make it less overwhelming. The author does a great job of describing the characters, how they fit and their backgrounds and there are many, many characters.
The story starts out intense and if possible, holds onto that intensity all the way through. And what a combination of love weaknesses and alpha strength in these guys. I have to laugh at Vino and his interactions with Zin. It just pointed everybody has a weakness. I’m not sure I even know how to explain Wolf and Demir. These two together are as combustible as two can be. This story has got me hooked on catching up and looking forward to the next.

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ring-a-ding

“A Lord never backs down.” Mmmhmm, you don’t even know, or maybe you do, and like me are ecstatic about how events are unfolding, even as you know the danger that awaits. “Your d*ck belongs to me. Your ass belongs to me. I will never share what’s mine.” Nngh, I love it all: the chaos, the violence, the power exchanges, the people, the found family, the brotherhood, the connections, the chemistry, and the love.

It’s so hard to choose a favorite person, moment, or perspective. You think you know, or at least I thought I did, but then, new secrets arise, games are played, and it leaves you buzzing and on edge. Gah, the next book can’t come fast enough! All I can say is I hope you’re ready as this series will set you aflame and leave you thirsty for more.

[Cheryl_cajun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Payback

This book is covering a different set of brothers and the gooey that is their glorious mess that builds their found happiness.
Wolf may have lusted after the wrong man, if he thought Demir was one hit wonder (haha) oh how I laughed 😂so much at Wolf because that big stubborn man was so warned! Oh we get Ze and tigers wedding, loved the vows. TT gets himself a new cellmate, and makes you wonder if a Lord is above begging?  Burger is twisted up over having to make a decision about Akari. The deal with Castiello family was supposed to be simple, now a few Lords as tangle more the was allowed.

[Ashley -Goldstarreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book to the series. In this one we get more Burger and Akani while they try to figure out how to be together and fulfill their obligations. We get Tiny Tim and his new cell mate Ajay as they come to a deal for protection. Vito and Zen while they continue to work through their relationship. Wolf and Demir and boy is that one entertaining! And of course we see others in the club, Ace and Kenshin, Z and Tiger, Shotgun and Gina, and Dragon and Richie. Things are starting to heat up in Chicago. We have a new narrator for the series and he had an enjoyable voice, but it was a little jarring at first since I’ve binge listened. He does a decent job though.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

There was sooo much in this book....It was fantastic and complex with the issues of each character. I was so excited to read about Zin and his development with Vino because they are so damn fun to read about, but then I got sucked into the craziness with Wolf and Demir and I freaking loved it! Then I was on pins and needles with Burger and Akari! And, to top it off Tiny Tim got his play time.

I loved it and I highly recommend reading this book and series. Everything Nicholas Bella writes is above and beyond all the others.

[Amani Sky · Rating 5 out of 5]

book 6 me please and thank you

As is every Nicholas Bella book I’ve read this is a gem and has me on the edge of my seat. I can’t wait for book 6 I could barely wait for book 5. This is truly one of the best action thriller kind of series I’ve ever read and on top of that it’s an LGBTQ inclusive story but it’s not forced or in a token kind of manner. The characters are written so well I could imagine them as if they were in front of me speaking to me. As per usually Nicholas Bella has exceeded expectations.

[Elaine Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. We get to see different points of view from all the main characters in the series. Demir and Wolf stole the show and their sexy times are hot and steamy. They are all likeable characters, ruthless, loyal, love their men and women, and would do anything to protect them. Vito is as vicious as ever, especially when someone messes with Zindel. The book is funny and romantic and has some intense moments and low angst, and I read it in one sitting. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Dire Raven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just say that Nicholas Bella is amazing. Whatever he writes he brings the most extraordinary, jaw-dropping, marvelous, unsavory, brutal characters and situations to life.

I won’t give too much away, but my favorite couple in this book hands down is Demir and Wolf. Let’s just say that Demir doesn’t disappoint. 😜 Also, if you start this series you’re in for an emotional rollercoaster ride of greatness.

[MM Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg! Oh my freaking god! Payback by Nicholas Bella is everything as it had expected. I love these boys. They are so bad that they are so good. I love how tables got turned! I love how true love was found. I love how love withstand many obstacles and still prevail! All the while doing what mafias and gangs do!

I loved them all but my favorite is Wolf and Demir’s story! This was fantastic and so original!!!

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥🔥🔥
Omg I love this series. I was waiting for this book, and Nicholas did not disappoint with it 🥰 so many different couples find love in their own ways. Nicholas is very talented with writing so many povs, and the book flows brilliantly. It's fast-paced, and hooks you.
I like all the guys, but Dragon is still my favourite, but Dermir has joined him. That's for sure 😏 looking forward to what's coming next.

[The Reluctant Retiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Story!

I devoured this in one day, it is that good. There were times when I just wanted to laugh, there were spots where I could feel how the characters felt. Now don’t get me wrong, you definitely want to read this series in order. It will make more sense then. Make sure to pay attention to whose POV the chapter is based on, because if you don’t, it’s confusing!
Overall, it’s a good series that I can’t wait to read more of!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love! Love! Loved it! I love the flow of the whole series! Getting to know the other chapters of The Lords Of Chaos, seeing how they take care of business and take care of their own! A Lord Never Backs Down and I am here for it! Loved to see the progress of Burger and Akari's relationship! Wolf got a little more then he bargained for, but A Lord know how to take care of business! Can't wait to see what happens in the next book!

[Carla Gallop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gritty, Steamy, Angsty, Emoitional Turmoil. Everything you love and expect from this author and more. This series is without a doubt an amazing roller coaster of a ride. The men are so hard core but yet at their core they are passionate and loving and protective and possessive. This book will snare you from the very beginning and have you begging for more when you are done. I can't wait for more of these guys.

[Ida Schoenborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh boy! I want Betrayed now! So good!

I am so glad that Nicholas Bella is a fast writer. I can't imagine what I would do if he took a year or more between books.

I love how his writing gets better & more imaginative with each book. This series is so good! Wow!! Keep em coming Nick! 😄

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sort of book that hooks you as soon as you start to read and doesn’t let you do anything else until you are done. Super Intense, original and fast paced. You won’t truly understand what I mean until you read it yourself. Fabulous.

The entire series is a must read. Reading in order is definitely the way to go. I cannot wait for the next book!

[Sherry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Are you into sexy mafia types and wild and raucous bikers? Need heeps of m/m erotica that is oh so hot and steamy? Then you have found your new favorite series! These characters are badass and want everyone to know it.

[Liza · Rating 4 out of 5]

You'd think with the amount of characters and POVs in this story, that it'd get confusing, but I was completely hooked from the beginning, loving the time with Vito and Zindel, Wolf, and Demir, and even Tim getting his time for love. I am excited to see what comes next!

[Kassandra Knight · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great addition to the series. Best enjoyed in order and probably binge read if you don’t have the greatest memory. Felt like I was watching a tv show.

I recommend if you like these kinds of books.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tawnya · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had a really hard time getting through this. No real new story development. I felt like this was a bunch of epilogues and a couple prologues thrown together. Super unorganized and was a dump of characters with repetitive dialogue.

[Jandee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it so much!

I absolutely love this book! I think it's my favorite in the series so far. Wolf and Demir and Vito and Zin are everything! It's so good! I can't wait to find out what happens next.

[Ellrae · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would love to see the end of akari's hell week, not just the line of he survived and man is proud. I need burger laughing his ass off at the poor brothers about to face the challenge cause you know they didnt bring enough guys.

[Amanda Reeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better and better. I just love all the characters and the storyline that continues in each book.

[Bran Zesti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot book

I don’t think I’ve read a book of Nicholas I haven’t liked or loved. This series is keeping me on my toes and making me want more and more. I can not wait for the next one.