Tease Me

Kings of Hell's Kitchen

by Tara Wyatt

Killian Byrne knew better than to let himself fall for a woman he can’t have. But then he laid eyes on Whitney Vanek, his boss’s wife’s best friend, and he fell, hard and fast. Even though she’s off-limits. Even though he’s ten years older than her.

Whitney Vanek is a woman who can have any man she wants—except Killian. It doesn’t matter how much she flirts with him, how many hints she drops, how many sexy outfits she wears around him. He never reacts. He barely even notices her.

Killian knows a woman like Whitney—gorgeous, smart, and full of life—isn’t for him. He’s too damaged. Too old. Which is why he needs to keep his hands to himself.

But for one fleeting moment, Whitney might be a temptation he can’t resist…

Genres: Romance, Dark Romance, Contemporary, Dark, Ebooks, Audiobook, Contemporary Romance

71 pages, ebook

First published March 2, 2023

About the author

Tara Wyatt is a Canadian contemporary romance author. Known for her humor and steamy love scenes, Tara's writing has won several awards, including the Golden Quill Award and the Booksellers' Best Award. In addition, she was a 2018 RITA® Finalist for her novella, Until the Sun Sets.

When she's not hanging out with your next book boyfriend, she can be found reading, bingeing Netflix, or playing way too much Among Us. Tara lives in Hamilton, Ontario with the world's cutest dog, her daughter, and a husband who makes all her of her heroes look like chumps.

Sign up for her newsletter to get a FREE story here: www.tara-wyatt.com/newsletter

Reviews

[QuinnReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Beginning

This book is aptly named as teasing me is exactly what it did! I swear, Tara is 😈 evil. Hehehe....

The rest of Killian and Whitney's story need to be shared, and soon. This is a good warm up for the angst that is going to come, and I can't wait!

My head is a mess, and I can’t sort my thoughts out right now. I need time to process what just happened. What he said. How he looked at me. Right now it’s a jumble that makes me feel alive and nauseous and frustrated and sad.
-- Whitney

My heart honestly broke for both of them towards the end. They both long for something that Killian doesn't believe he's worthy of and it's incredibly sad.

I do love his book collection and find that insanely sweet. 😍

[Donna McEachran · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am an unashamed massive Tara Wyatt fan and I love the Prescott's. Killian is a broken man who thinks he doesn't deserve happiness...or Whitney. I can't wait for Tempt Me!

[Reed Daylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars: forbidden, mafia, Older man/younger woman "teaser"

POV: dual
HUMOR: some
F BOMBS: yes
CLIFFHANGER: yes
NEW AUTHOR FOR ME: no
POSSIBLE TRIGGERS: cursing, violence, murder

CHARACTERS: Killian Byrne (41; Irish mob enforcer, closed-off and brooding) and Whitney (28; writer, forward, flirty, independent)

OVERALL: forbidden, mafia, Older man/younger woman "teaser" Novella to the new series that I can't wait to read

PROS:
1. Although not a romantic comedy, there are still bits of humor subtly mixed in - very nice!
2. Attracted at first sight; both have chemistry and sexual energy enough to guarantee future steamy encounters.
3. A plus that Killian isn't your typical Ken-doll-gorgeous good looks, instead he's got muscles, tattoos, and scars.
4. Easy to get sucked into the story because there's great writing as I've always come to expect from this author.

CONS:
1. (Not necessarily a con for this book) Some characters from The Prescotts series mentioned and since I haven't read all of them, I feel like I'm missing out on the full picture.
2. Their ages are a little hard to calculate because the information is given at separate times and the novella is separated into different time frames.
3. Cliffhanger - This novella is perhaps the first few chapters of Killian and Whitney's story in "Tempt Me," or can be considered Book 0.5 of the new Kings of Hell's Kitchen series.

NOTEWORTHY:
1. Favorite quote: "Maybe love isn't something you choose to believe in. Maybe it's more like magic, and once you see it, it can't be unseen."
2. Novella is split into 3 time frames: 10 years ago, 3 years ago, and present day

I received an advanced copy and, as always, am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Joli Trauth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Probably about the most worthless book I’ve ever read. Absolutely NOTHING happened.

[Laura Nelson (Tangents and Tissues) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review to follow!

[Fatima Mahmood · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t even remember reading the other book. 😂😭 finished it because I was listening to the audio while playing a game 😬

[Claudia, Cmarie927 · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's difficult to convey how addictive and engaging this short teaser story is, without giving spoilers!!

But, here goes...

Killian has been a part of, witnessed horrific situations, and lost so much in Boston. Now in NYC, working with Lucian Prescott, he has found a way to work, while keeping his demons in check.

(Not sure who Lucian is? Read the Prescott series. In fact, since this is a spin-off... that series should be considered required pre-reading. IMHO.)

We get a small snapshot of who Whitney is (BFF to Olivia) in this story, but it's definitely not enough!!
The chemistry between Killian and Whitney sizzles throughout this read, and definitely set my need to read their full story in Tempt Me, due out in May 2023. I absolutely cannot wait!!

I was fortunate to receive a free ARC of this story, and I voluntarily leave my review.

[strawbreekiwi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wish I’d paid more attention the the fact that this was a novella to Tempt Me. I wouldn’t have read this until I was able to buy Tempt Me because the cliffhanger… wow lol. Nevertheless I really liked this. 71 pages to prepare me for the highly anticipated age gap… I can’t wait 😋

[Danielle Vitale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite the “tease” for what’s to come with Killian and Whitney! Looking forward to the novel, Tempt Me.

[Stox4story · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tease Me ... and this book really will

He loves her from afar. That’s all he can do because Killian’s an enforcer, a protector. His job is to help clean up illicit behavior before things go bad. I guess you could say he works undercover, but not for law enforcement. He’s head of security for Prescott Hospitality Group, a branch of Lucian Prescott’s The Kings of Hell’s Kitchen. So, with a name like that, you know we’re talking mob, mafia, gangs. He’s what I call a ‘good-bad guy’.

Killian’s life always is in danger since the really bad guys want to snuff out the really ‘good-bad’ guys. Whitney is the only woman he’s ever been drawn to, but he can’t bring her into his world. It’s way to dangerous, so he makes sure she is safe and protected while he loves her from afar.

This is a prequel to a new series Tara Wyatt is writing. It’s a darker world and different from her other books I’ve read. If this book is any indication, we’re going to ‘see’ a lot of blood shed alongside repressed love that won’t be able to remain hidden.

🤔OBSERVATIONS:

✒︎ Love how the author wrote this book. It's not easy penning a dark themed script and getting the point across to the reader while not actually detailing out the blood and gore. We KNOW what happens and why... and how, but it's not a blow by blow account.

✒︎ I really liked Killian. He did 'bad stuff' but kept seeking redemption. Problem is, he has to continue doing ‘bad stuff’ in order to keep even worse 'stuff' from happening. I would have like to ‘see’ him handle that Boston group, rather than ‘hear about it. How did he get free so he could take them on? How does the rest of the Charlestown group react?

✒︎ Whitney wasn’t my favorite character. She seemed flippant and immature for her age. She’s doing her best to get Killian’s love. Problem is, she already has it but can’t know she does.

✒︎ Really looking forward to the next book in this series. Killian is going on a dangerous mission involving girls being sold and trafficked. It’s his job to stop it.

✒︎ Love the concept of this book…. good-bad vs evil-bad. So why 4 stars and not five? I understand a book of this type will use a lot of foul language. That’s par for the course. The people involved certainly aren’t Sunday School characters. So, I accept the cussing, but I hate profanity. Thankfully profanity only happens a couple times, but cuss words easily could have been substituted.

✒︎ This series is going to be very different from other books I’ve read by this author, such as Skin Deep or Stealing Home. This is darker and the ‘bad guys’ have turned into 'good guys' …. well as a good as they can be since they still have to do bad guy 'stuff’ to wipe out the really bad stuff.

I was given an advanced copy of this book and freely leave my review.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tara Wyatt's Tease Me kicks off her Kings of Hell's Kitchen series, a spinoff of her series The Prescotts. This is the prequel novella, nicely setting up the couple in the first full book ( Tease Me ), Killian and Whitney.

In this novella, we find out how and why Killian came to work for Lucian Prescott (the hero of Bad Intentions ) and witness as he meets Whitney--the BFF of his boss's girlfriend--the woman he is both fascinated by and sure he cannot possibly ever be worthy of.

I especially loved the scenes from Killian's POV--they are so deliciously angsty, and I just know I'm going to love watching him earn his HEA in the next book. Whitney is intriguing as well--I love that she's an author who writes erotic romantic fantasies. She has a lot of self confidence, and I can't wait to see how she will finally convince Killian to fight for their romance.

If you've read The Prescotts books, parts of this prequel occur simultaneously with Lucien and Olivia's wedding (the same weekend as Until You ), but if you haven't, it works fine as a standalone too. Though the next book doesn't come out until the end of May, which gives you plenty of time to get caught up. Just saying... #sorrynotsorry

Rating: 4 stars / A-

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

TEASE ME is the prequel novella in Tara Wyatt’s contemporary, adult THE KINGS OF HELL’S KITCHEN erotic, criminal underworld, romance series-a spin off from the author’s THE PRESCOTTS series. This is former Irish mob enforcer turned security specialist, forty-four year old Killian Byrne, and twenty-eight year old fantasy author Whitney Vanek’s story line. TEASE ME can be read as a stand alone but for back story I recommend reading BAD INTENTIONS (Prescott 4) .

Told from dual first person perspectives (Killian and Whitney) following several timelines TEASE ME follows the introduction of Killian Byrne to the soon to be Kings of Hell’s Kitchen. Approximately twenty years earlier, Killian’s entire family was murdered by a rival mob, and Killian sought sanctuary with Julian Prescott. Over the years Killian would become Julian’s right hand man, his enforcer and protector but always standing in the shadows, dark and alone until the day Killian meets Julian’s fiancée’s best friend Whitney, the woman who stirred something deep within our story line hero. Killian believed his work would place a target on any woman he loved so he kept his distance from Whitney Vanek. Three years would pass as Killian watched from the sidelines, knowing he would never have a chance at family and love.

TEASE ME is a bit of a teaser; a prequel that introduces some of the background and history of Killian Byrne, and his desire for a woman he cannot have. The premise is captivating and intriguing; the characters are resigned and reserved; there is no romance but for the thoughts and yearnings of two people who continue to lust after one another-from afar.

Killian and Whitney’s story continues in TEMPT ME -May 2023.

Www.thereadingcafe.com

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tease Me is the prequel to Tempt Me in the King's of Hell's Kitchen series. It's a fast paced quick read novella that grabs your attention from the beginning and keeps you hooked and turning pages. There's no cheating and it ends on cliffhanger. The story is brilliantly written with world building characters and great storyline. This is Whitney and Killian story. Killan is a hitman and an enforcer he loss everyone after his dad and brother was killed in Ireland. Tara does a great job of delineating his backstory the things he have done in his past before went seek out Lucian and started to work for him.
Killian has a crush on Whitney who is best friend Olivia his boss fiancee. He knows that she his forbidden but always knows he cannot avoid her. He doesn't believe that he is good enough for her because of his lifestyle and doesn't want to see her. But he made a promise to himself that he would protect her from the shadows from any danger even himself. Because of his lifestyle his life is in constant danger and he doesn't want to put her at risk. Whitney is the only woman that he as ever been drawn to, who makes him want to come out of the darkness into the light and take a chance at love and letting someone in. Whitney is also attracted to Killian and does everything to get his attention.

I received an advanced copy of this book via Bookfunnel.com and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ten years ago Killian escaped death from the Charlestown Gang in Boston. Right before he died Killian’s dad Cillian gave him an address and name in New York City and told him to go there when he needed help. Cillian was the leader of the Southies an Irish mob in Boston. The Charlestown Gang killed everyone connected to the Southies except Killian, that included his brother Colin and his dad. Cillian always told Killian he had the devil inside him and Killian believed him. Killian made his way to New York by way of bus with $20.00 to his name. He was hungry and tired by the time he landed on the doorstep of Lucian Prescott. Lucian took Killian in and gave him a job. Seven years later Killian is watched over Olivia, Lucian’s fiancée. Even after Olivia was kidnapped on Killian’s watch Lucien still trusted him. Killian is a man dedicated to his job but he sees a woman that he just can’t stop watching. Whitney is best friends with Olivia and she wants to be with Killian but he won’t admit to wanting to be with her. Three years later Lucien and Olivia are getting married and Killian still thinks about and fantasizes about Whitney. Whitney hasn’t been able to stop thinking about Killian either. Will Killian finally kiss Whitney? Will they get together or will Killian stay single?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book I’ve been waiting for!! The prequal of Kings of Hell Kitchen, the new series that comes from the Prescott books. I have read almost all of Tara’s books, they draw you into the story like you are right there. All the books have lots of action, passion, danger and steam. This new series sounds like it will be a winner too. This prequel just wets our appetite for what is coming or going to happen. Killian come to Lucian ten years ago when he had lost everything. He was broken from the loss of his father and brother. His father told him to find Lucian. He has been working for the revised Lucian ever since. Three years ago, while keeping Lucian’s wife safe he meets her best friend, Whitney and falls hard. She is everything he isn’t light, fun and beautiful, full of life. He is dark inside and out with all his tattoos. He knows he is not good for her. Whitney has tried everything to let Killian know she is more than interested in him. From teasing, flirting and making him mad too. Just when she things he might be changing his mind he hurts her feeling and leaves. Tara was right in naming it Tease Me because it is a tease for all of us who have been waiting for this story. Waiting on pins and needle for the book to be out...be sure and get your copy so you're ready when book one is out...should be in May.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark soul meets sunlight, is what came to mind as I read this novella. It is a sad, intriguing tale of wanting something so badly that you ache for it, but you feel you are undeserving.

Killian is a former enforcer for the Southies of Boston. He is now head of security for the man who took him in after his life in Boston disintegrated. Whitney is the best friend of his boss’s girlfriend. Two people from opposite lifestyles, they are immediately attracted to one another.

Killian is intensely aware of Whitney, and while he would like to explore that, he shuts his feelings away because of how his past has merged with the present. He feels he is too broken to be worthy of her. Whitney sees the desire as well as the pain in his eyes and would like nothing more than to help banish it.

Things take a bit of a turn at the wedding of their friends (his boss and her friend). But reality bites, and Killian ends up hurting them both.

I’m drawn in and pulling for Killian and Whitney to find a way to be together!

The characters are well-written, the storyline is a bit dark but kept me reading.

I received this as an eARC from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
I’m looking forward to the next book, Tempt Me, to see what happens next!

[Geri Stoikova · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Tease Me , The Kings of Hell's Kitchen prequel novella by Tara Wyatt in one sitting for a couple of hours... because , you see I was at work and I had the time and the opportunity. And if I wasn't at work I would've read it faster. That novella hooked me up on these new series from the first page . I have to say that I love Killian - he's silent and grumpy , with dangerous past and made the choice to be alone so no one he loves get hurt . Because once he lost everything , now he made keeping everyone safe his business . And Whitney is such a sweetheart and a bookish writer girl on top of it - so in my book she has it all in being perfect for Killian . But even though he wants Whitney he keeps to himself to just keep her safe. And after the introduction of the other Kings of Hell's Kitchen I can't wait to read not only Killian and Whitney's story but theirs too . Because you see Tease Me is the conclusion to Lucian Prescott and Olivia Walsh's story that started in Bad Intentions from The Prescotts Series. You can bet that I checked this series and now I'm reading Lucian Prescott's story so I'm on track with the events for the next book in Kings of Hell's Kitchen series. And I have to say that the end of Tease Me left me in knots because that end is a whole new beginning . And because you see The Kings of Hell's Kitchen will be that good and I don't want to miss anything.

Side note : While I was writing this I was watching Dare Devil on AXN . Yes , the movie about the guardian devil of Hell's Kitchen . Coincidence ? I don't think so .

I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.

[Aminah Ahmad · Rating 2 out of 5]

A little prologue novella to introduce us to the world of the Kings of Hell's Kitchen. After reading Lucian Prescott's book, from the Prescott series, I was definitely intrigued by the shadier side that he deals with and so was looking forward to this series.

Unfortunately though, this one just didn't hit the spot for me and I'm not sure if I will read the first book. Maybe it was my mood at the time of reading, I'm not 100% sure, but I just didn't gel with the FMC. She seemed a bit too over-confident in an annoying way and I didn't like it. Likewise, whilst I didn't necessarily mind the MMC's character, I just didn't find it fitting to his character that he would've been so distracted by her. I was hoping to see a bit more restraint? (not sure if that's the word I'm looking for but..)

I mean.. I know I just said that I might not read their official book but tbh, I probably will because it kills me to not read all the books in a series, in the correct order. But, I know that I probably won't enjoy it which is disappointing because I do usually like TW's writing. However, I'm sure I'll like the others in the series more.


*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ½ Stars for this mafia romance!

Tease Me ... that's exactly what this is ... a TEASE! I loved Killan and Whitney. Killian is a ruthless hunk but he has a heart of gold underneath that gruff exterior. Whitney is beautiful inside and out. She knows what she wants and doesn't give up. I can't wait for their story to continue in Tempt Me. This is a great start to a new series.

When Killian is in his early 30s, his Irish mob family is killed and his father tells him to go see Lucian Prescott in New York on his dying breath ... that Lucian will help him. Killian becomes part of Lucian's family as the enforcer. Years later he meets Lucian's fiancé's best friend Whitney and falls head-over-heels for her. But he knows that they can never be together because of his dark past ... and future. Three years after meeting Killian, Whitney is still flirting with him ... trying to get a reaction out of him. She knows there is intense chemistry between and that he has a dark past, but the heart wants what the heart wants.

I received an early copy courtesy of the author in exchange for a honest review.

[Mimi Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thirty-one year old Killian Byrne has been raised on the Irish Boston Southies gang until the Charlestown Gang staged a coup and killed both his father and his brother while he was forced to watch. Now he is on his way to New York City hoping that Lucian Prescott, leader of The King’s of Hell’s Kitchen, will help him.

Seven years later and having climbed through the ranks, Killian, now head of security for Prescott Hospitality Group, is charged with keeping Olivia, Lucian’s special lady, and her friends safe in the VIP area of one of the Prescott clubs. And there he meets the siren Whitney, Olivia’s BFF, and fire erupts from the chemistry between the two. But it is not to be for them.

Three years later, they meet again, same song, second verse, this time at the wedding of Lucian and Olivia. Tara Wyatt continues to thrill me with her addictive stories filled with spicy sex scenes and imminent danger, this time a novella that sucks me in from the begging and doesn’t let go until the very end, only to learn that it is really to be continued. Grab Tease Me and enjoy!

I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily leave my honest opinion.

[AussieBookAddict (Mel) · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: ★★★★☆

Tease Me by Tara Wyatt, published on January 1, 2024, independently, is a captivating and spicy novella that explores themes of forbidden love, internal conflict, and irresistible temptation.

The story follows Killian Byrne, a man who knows better than to fall for a woman he can’t have. But when he meets Whitney Vanek, his boss’s wife’s best friend, he falls hard and fast despite knowing she's off-limits and ten years younger. Whitney is a woman who can have any man she wants—except Killian. No amount of flirting, hinting, or sexy outfits seem to get a reaction from him. Killian, believing himself too damaged and too old for someone as perfect as Whitney, tries to keep his distance. But one fleeting moment of temptation might be too much for him to resist.

Wyatt's writing is engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the intense chemistry and tension between Killian and Whitney. The characters are well-developed, with Killian's internal struggle and Whitney's determined pursuit creating a compelling dynamic. The novella’s cliffhanger ending leaves readers wanting more, eager to see how the story unfolds in future installments.

The blend of spice, plot, and emotional depth makes "Tease Me" an easy and enjoyable read, perfect for those who can finish a book in one sitting. Wyatt captures the essence of forbidden romance, making the reader feel the weight of Killian and Whitney’s undeniable attraction and the obstacles they face.

I want to extend my thanks to Tara Wyatt for crafting this engaging novella. The story's cliffhanger, while frustrating, heightens anticipation for the series' continuation.

In conclusion, Tease Me is a tantalizing and well-written novella that explores the complexities of forbidden love and personal growth. Tara Wyatt has created a story with memorable characters and a plot that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. Highly recommended for fans of intense, spicy romances.

[Mimi Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thirty-one year old Killian Byrne has been raised in the Irish Boston Southies gang until the Charlestown Gang staged a coup and killed both his father and his brother while he was forced to watch. Now he is on his way to New York City hoping that Lucian Prescott, leader of The King’s of Hell’s Kitchen, will help him.

Seven years later and having climbed through the ranks, Killian, now head of security for Prescott Hospitality Group, is charged with keeping Olivia, Lucian’s special lady, and her friends safe in the VIP area of one of the Prescott clubs. And there he meets the siren Whitney, Olivia’s BFF, and fire erupts from the chemistry between the two. But it is not to be for them.

Three years later, they meet again.. same song, second verse, this time at the wedding of Lucian and Olivia. Tara Wyatt continues to thrill me with her addictive stories filled with spicy sex scenes and imminent danger, this time a novella that sucks me in from the begging and doesn’t let go until the very end, only to learn that it is really to be continued. Grab Tease Me and enjoy!

[NJGIRL · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a prequel to a new series and seems to be quite different from what I’m used to seeing from this author. It definitely has a darkness to it as the lead male character, Killian is an enforcer with an Irish mob family. When his family is killed, he is led to the leader of The King of Hell’s Kitchen, Lucian Prescott. Fast forward a few years, and he is head of security for Prescott Hospitality Group. His main focus is to keep Lucian’s love, Olivia, safe. This is how Killian meets Olivia’s best friend, Whitney, and falls for her. Although he wants her, he knows she is off-limits due to his lifestyle. But Whitney feels the same pull towards Killian. The chemistry between Killian and Whitney sizzles.

I do not usually read books with a dark storyline, but I will admit these two characters pulled me in, and I’ll definitely be reading Tempt Me, the next installment, to see how what happens next for these two.

I received this as an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Ade · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the story so much that I did not want it to end. I’m now emotionally invested in Killian and Whitney’s story.

I love how the author developed Killian- from his past to the present and we can see and understand why he takes the actions he takes. He has seen and endured so much yet we are rooting for him to find his happiness and lay those demons to rest.

Whitney is a glutton for punishment. How she keeps coming at him with no response baffles me but still I love her and can’t wait to see her fully developed in the book.

I love the references to New York and all of the other members of Kings of Hell’s Kitchen (I know their stories are coming).

I cannot wait for Tempt Me to drop and if like me you look Tara’s book. Read this to tide yourself over.

I received a copy of this book from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving my review.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. I enjoy her writing style as well as her ability to pull me into her stories. This book is no different. This is a well developed story about falling for someone you should stay away from but fate has a say in that. He knows that he needs to stay away from her but their attraction is just to strong. What happens with these two you don't want to miss. They pulled me into their world from the start. They are engaging, strong characters that have great chemistry throughout. I enjoyed watching their growth and what they bring to the story. This is a fast paced, hard to put down story that is a must read. I never hesitate to pick up this author and this book just shows why, loved it. I highly recommend this book and this author.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 'tease' for The Kings of Hell's Kitchen is insanely good, setting up this new series.

After devistation rocks Killian's foundation he heads to New York to meet a man his father had sent him to. There, Killian creats a new 'family' where he works his way up to security specialist in Lucian Prescott's organization. Now he is helping Lucian to clean up the city, which still requires him to remove the worse scum from the planet, leaving Killian's hands constantly dirty. That's why he can never follow through with his feelings for the sweet and flirty Whitney. She deserves so much better.

Whitney knows what Killian does and she only wants to know him better, but Killian is a brick wall where his emotions are concerned, and he's determined to keep Whitney firmly locked out. 

I received an ARC and voluntarily offer this review.

[Nikole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so angry at myself for not checking to make sure Tempt Me was on KU.
Because of course it's not. So now, I get the beginning of their story (which isn't really a beginning) and I can't even finish it!!!!

All they have done is long for one another from afar. Well, okay, they have kissed too. But DAMN. I thought there would be more!

I have added it to my list because this prequel was actually really interesting and I definitely want to read more.

I should've realized by how short it was that this wasn't their full story. But I've read so many short stories that I thought were longer that you just never know anymore. I wish there was something at the beginning saying 'HEY! this is the prequel' lmao.

Oh well, I'll still find a way to read it.

Spice 0/5
Humor 1/5
Emotional 1/5
World Building 4/5
Overall 5/5

[Dee Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

A dark snippet introducing us to Killian Byrne, former Enforcer of the Boston Southies, a gang who no longer exists thanks to a bloody takeover that only Killian survived. He’s part of Lucian Prescott’s organisation now, the man who took him in after his world imploded, who gave him purpose and trusts him.
While looking after Lucian’s fiancée, Olivia, he meets her bff, Whitney, and he gains a new temptation, one he can never give into. They come from different worlds, he has the devil inside him, he kills. He needs to make sure she stays in the light and is never corrupted by his darkness.
Dark, steamy intriguing mafia romance. What happens? We’ll have to wait for Tempt Me to find out more.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Glittergirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a prequel for Tara Wyatt's Kings of Hell's Kitchen. I have been waiting on pins and needles for this series to begin. I fell for Killian in Lucian Prescott's book Bad Intentions. These former bad guys who are working for the good make my heart sing. In this short story we find how Killian came to know Lucian and how he ended up Lucian's right hand man. The loyalty and devotion of this band of brothers is tight and wonderful to see. Tara fleshes out her characters so they become real and I pull for them to find happiness. They think they don't deserve it but they so do.

Killian was his father's enforcer. When his father and brother were killed by a rival gang he went to find Lucian whom his father said he could trust. Lucian finds a place for him in his organization. After Lucian turns way from being a broker for the mob, Lucian and the men of Hell's Kitchen follow his lead working to take down those who hurt others. Killian fell for Lucian's wife's best friend Whitney Vanek the first time he saw her. He won't cross the line to act on his attraction because he doesn't think he's good enough for her. They become friends of a sort and flirt for years. We'll get their story next. I can't wait.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amy Reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Killian has been to hell, and hasn't quite made it out. He is a former enforcer for the Irish Mob, and now the head of security for Lucian Prescott's organization. When he first sees Whitney, he sees sunshine and everything good. He can't have her. He cannot even consider it, no matter how much she flirts. He is too broken.

This is the prequel for Tara Wyatt's new series, and wow. It lured me in, made me feel for Killian and Whitney, and then made me want Tempt Me right now. I will wait with bated breath until May 2023 to find out what happens. This was a really good read, and a good look into Lucian Prescott's world. It's well worth the one click.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.