Sinner's Obsession: A Brother's Best Friend Dark Romance

Syndicate of Sinners #1

by Bianca Borell

When sin and innocence collide, passion ignites.

Aurora McNamara refuses to continue living in fear. More than anything, she yearns to be free from her cruel father and his nefarious plans.

When she’s whisked away under the cloak of darkness, her circumstances take an unexpected turn.

Unwilling to allow her choices to be taken from her once more, Aurora plots her escape. But how can she tear herself away from the one man whose skilled touches and tantalizing kisses leave her breathless?

Kieran Hunt belongs to one of the world’s most feared syndicates. Cold. Ruthless. Jaded. A merciless sinner with no conscience and no regrets. His sole goal is to destroy the man responsible for his father’s death.

By honoring a blood oath, he claims Aurora as his wife. But what was meant to be a marriage of obligation instead awakens intense feelings he can’t ignore.

Aurora, with her innocent beauty, is his and anyone who dares to challenge that will feel his wrath. Can a marriage filled with secrets and ever-lurking danger survive? Or will their blooming love prove powerful enough to overcome all obstacles?




Sinners Obsession is a dark mafia romance, brother’s best friend, forced proximity, spicy read with a possessive hero and a strong willed heroine. Dare to fall in love with the anti hero that is Kieran Hunt.

Genres: Dark Romance, Romance, Mafia Romance, Forced Proximity, Enemies To Lovers, Adult, Contemporary

344 pages, Paperback

First published February 23, 2023

About the author

Bianca Borell is a contemporary romance author, voracious reader, nature lover, and unapologetic daydreamer. She spends her nights deciding between getting up to write or trying to silence the voices of her characters. The battle is never-ending.

She has a weakness for tormented characters, second chances, and happy endings.

She currently lives in Germany with her amazing husband and indulges in way too many pastries than she should.

For updates, news, and releases, be sure to visit Bianca’s official website at www.biancaborell.com


Follow Bianca here:

https://linktr.ee/BiancaBorell

I'd love to connect with you.

Reviews

[Lindsey · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like to this book and I think the idea was there. It was just the execution and writing that I didn't particularly gel with for this mafia romance. The writing seemed to progress without providing details. Or it seemed to abruptly change scene without clear explanation.

I ultimately DNF'd at around 20%. But if you like mafia romance, brother's best friend, enemies to lover this does have that.

[Ercy · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is hands down the most childish book I've ever read😂

[Mio Orlov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review coming soon )

[The Booknerdigan · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Mafia Romance
✨Brothers Best Friend
✨Virgin Heroine
✨”She’s Mine”
✨Touch Her You ☠️
✨Angst
✨Steam

I’m so thankful for the author reaching out to see if I would read an ARC of this book and I’m so glad I did. I read this book in one day and I got absolutely nothing else done today lol. I was so enraptured in the story from chapter one. Bianca Borell knows how to write a great beginning that keeps your attention.
I did not want it to end but I couldn’t put it down. And now I’m in total book hangover and need more!

[ReadonReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a huge lover of this trope with an over the top man like Kieran, I am here for it all and this story was a great one with lots of action and emotions. Kieran and his friends have lived in this life for a while and have slowly been taking over from the worse of the worst in the organization and they have strong loyalties when it comes to each other, so when Kieran is asked by is friend to help his sister he doesn’t even really hesitate. Kieran knows what he has to do in order to protect Aurora and even though he knows it won’t be easy he wasn’t expecting this quiet and docile thing to be so hostile towards him when all he did was save her. Aurora is young and very naive but she knows her father and the men he associates with are horrible people, yet the only person she seems to attack or try to resist at every turn is the guy she has always crushed on and the one that saved her life. I get that Aurora wanted her independence and freedom, but she had to know that the lifestyle she was born into and not just Kieran’s was one she would never truly be able to walk away from, but somehow she thinks of him as the worst of the worst when he really isn’t . She was irritating and her constant butting heads, pouting, and acting childish was not only frustrating but if I was Kieran I would have let her go. Let’s also not forget about her best friend who was just as reckless and immature, Chiara, she got Aurora into a lot of trouble and danger by being naive. Overall, the action and intensity of Kieran and his friends is what really won me over.

[Apoorva Sharma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this book if you like:

🖤Mafia Romance
❤️Possessive MMC
🖤Angst & Jealously
❤️Brother’s Best Friend
🖤Arranged Marriage

Aurora knows her fate, being born in the family… But when her brother sees their father arranging her marriage to a slimy man, Cameron aka her brother asks his best friend/ her childhood crush Kieran to marry Aurora.

There is a lot of push and pull but I really liked how Kieran changed his ways for her

There is angst, kind of hate to love because she isn’t liking this situation…

The spice because Kieran🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼

[Basak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sinner’s Obsession by Bianca Borell was a great mafia book with forced marriage trope and childhood friends to enemies to lovers trope wrapped up in a pretty package. The hero, Kieran was very likeable and swoon-worthy to me but I couldn’t quite make myself like the heroine, Aurora. She was a bit childish to me with her tantrums and her dilemmas. The plot was quite complex and intriguing, and the surprise revelation was the cherry on top. My only complaint is the lack of details and small fast-forwards that seem to happen quite often, yet this was still a solid mafia romance to me.

[Carol-Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much, loved all the tropes such as forced marriage, mafia, friends to enemies to lovers. Totally recommend this book it has the right amount of spice too. I have no idea how someone can just make a phone call and have a submarine at the ready. Bianca you wrote an amazing

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ashley Carr, LSoR · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first story I’ve read by this author, and I will definitely be reading more about her. The characters were well developed in the story was entertaining and engaging. Aurora and Kieran loved to hate each other. I wanted to yank Aurora up at the beginning of the story. She’s just so naïve and sheltered but she gets better as the story progresses. Kieran evolves also making for a satisfying storyline.

[Shannon Godwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a ride with this book! Loved it. Kieran and Aurora have gone from childhood friends, enemies, lovers to marriage. That’s tells you the kind of ride this story is. I loved Kieran, Aurora I feel like needed to grow up a little bit more. The writing was phenomenal and I can’t wait to read the next book!

[Nidhi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Spice: 4/5 🌶️

📍Tropes:
- Mafia romance
- Forced marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Brother's bestfriend
- Touch her and you die ☠️

[ The author has mentioned some of the content warnings at the beginning. It has some scenes that may trigger some readers so look out for it. ]

• Aurora - sweet and innocent heroine and but sassy. She was forced into marriage and not treated as a daughter by her own father and she wanted freedom. She had a crush on his brother's bestfriend since childhood.
• Kieran - possessive and ruthless but he promised to keep her save from everytime **ahhhhhh**. He is a monster as he shows but only for her he's an angel.😌

I loved the characters and there story. I like reading mafia romance and enjoyed reading with some fun and spice🤭. But still I think aurora took too long to understand and was acting too childish, on the other hand Kieran was much understanding.

Thank you for the ARC by the author. I'm glad I read it. The author wrote the book very nicely. This was a hell of a ride.
***Don't expect less or more from a mafia romance.***

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are definitely in for a ride with this one!

Aurora has such a big heart. She grew up away from the dark side of life but has had to contend with her father's hatred of her after her mother's untimely death. Still, she has it in her to forgive others and would go to the ends of the earth to make sure no one is hurt, especially the people whom she cares about. Aurora also likes to challenge others and fight for what she believes in.

Kieran definitely gives you mixed feelings. He has had to grow up quickly after his father's accident in order to provide for his mother and baby sister. This has jaded him some what and brings out a cold, ruthless and morally grey side to him. He also likes to be in control and displays a strong possessiveness/obsession towards Aurora, but he also shows how loyal he is to his friends and shows a tender side to those he cares about.

Kieran and Aurora have such a tumultuous and rocky relationship. The two of them grew up together, but after the death of her mother, Aurora is sent away and now returns after several years away. Her father has plans for her, but Kieran decides to take things into his own hands after he makes a vow to Aurora's brother, Cameron. I thought this was a little off-putting because Kieran is both hot and cold toward Aurora, initially not wanting to be involved even though he did care for her, and he definitely handles things not in the best way and stifles Aurora's freedom. Yet feeling consumed by her is also foreign to him and he doesn't know how to handle these feelings, and he does show us how remorseful he can be and will go to any lengths to protect her. Similarly, Aurora likes to push Kieran and defy his commands. She also keeps a secret from him and constantly builds walls and while I think at some points she should have relented, I also felt her actions were justified given what's she goes through and was glad she maintains her self. This couple often has a battle of wills and volley back and forth throughout the story. Between the good moments the share, there is a lot miscommunication, insecurity, distrust between them, and they have a lot to work through, constantly proving to each other their feelings. It is this up and down that makes their eventual HEA more satisfactory, but for sure a lot of patience is need while reading.

Indeed, the author does a great job delivering the drama and angst, eliciting emotions and pulling readers through a wringer. I did think some points dragged a bit (one step forward, two steps back) as I was eager to get over the volleying and uncover the unexpected twists and all the revelations we get in the story. The side characters definitely make you curious about their stories too, as we see their might be more drama with those couplings.

Overall, I think this was a good read, and I look forward to seeing what's next.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

When sin and innocence collide, passion ignites. Aurora McNamara refuses to continue living in fear. More than anything, she years to be free from her cruel father and his nefarious plans. When she's whisked away under the cloak of darkness, her circumstances take and unexpected turn. Unwilling to allow her choices to be taken from her once more. Aurora plots her escape. But how can she tear herself away from the one man whose skilled touches and tantalizing kisses leave her breathless? Kieran Hunt belongs to one of the world's most feared syndicates. Cold. Ruthless. Jaded. A merciless sinner with no conscience and no regrets. His sole goal is to destroy the man responsible for his father's death. By honoring a blood oath, he claims Aurora as his wife. But what was mean to be a marriage of obligation instead awakens intense feelings he can't ignore. Aurora, with her innocent beauty, is his and anyone who dares to challenge that will feel his wrath. Can a marriage filled with secrets and ever-lurking danger survive? Or will their blooming love prove powerful enough to overcome all obstacles?

If you like your anti heroes over the top then you are going to love kieran. He is a man along with his friends that have lived in this life for a while in the syndicate and slowly taking over the worst of the worst in the organization. They have a very strong loyalty to each other. When one of his friends asks him to help his sister he doesn't even blink an eye and is off to help Aurora. He knows what he has to do to protect her and that is marry her. However he thinks that she is a docile and innocent girl and what he gets is a fiery female who is super hostile towards him. He just doesn't get it. He saved her after all. She might be sweet and innocent but she knows that her father and the men he associates with are some of the worst men in the world. However that doesn't stop her from attacking the guy that she has always had a crush on and actually saved her life. All she wanted in life was independence and freedom but she finds herself safe at the mercy of another man. Kieran is also keeps some huge secrets but is most of all out for revenge for the death of his father. It is a wild ride to say the least and a book that I really enjoyed.

[Leslie || original book nerd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sinner’s Obsession - Syndicate of Sinners #1 - Review

Couple: Aurora McNamara & Kieran Hunt

Author: Bianca Borell

Tropes: dark romance, frenemy to lover, mafia romance, touch her and die, childhood friends, forced proximity, he falls first, arranged marriage

Review: AHH! Bring in the mafia romances! This is the first book in the series and I was THERE FOR IT! The book is a dual POV and centers around Kieran and Aurora. While it has all the things, we love to read in mafia romances, I also felt like this book was not the norm for this genre since the MMC was not as limiting to Aurora.
 
The book begins with Aurora being brough home to her family estate and Kieran finding out that her father plans to sell her. This sets off a chain reaction when Aurora’s brother calls in a favor with Kieran who just happens to be her childhood crush and her brother’s best friend. I enjoyed the pairing in this book because both MCs had feelings for each other but refused to believe it and fought against them so hard. What really made the book on another level was how much Kieran wanted aurora to be happy and how in touch he was with his actions and emotions.
 
Kieran was my favorite MC in this book and I just never got enough of him. His unwavering loyalty to Aurora was what brought it home for me, especially when she was trying to get away and keep her freedom. I loved how much he let her be “free” but also thought the length he went to make her safe also spoke volumes. Aurora on the other hand was at times immature but I felt like she was written age appropriate and kept the book lively. I appreciated how loyal she was to Chiara but also hated how Chiara took advantage and was so negative.
 
The book is full of action and keeps you wanting to see what happens next. The arc of Aurora being “sold” is the main conflict in this book and also sets the cascade effects for the main event towards the end. I hated how she was so naïve at times but also thought it was important for her character to keep that naivety. The best parts though were her inner fight when it all comes to a head and when she finally admits to her love for Kieran. Excited to read her brother’s book!

Rating: 100+, I LOVE KIERAN!

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part of the Syndicate of Sinners if the rest of the series follow suite, I will be waiting for book two. Hang on and buckle up this is a wild ride, dangerous men, alpha’s personified, possessive, oh, gorgeous, brooding all the makings of a story consisting with three D’s (dark, delicious, and dirty) 😊. There will be suspense, betrayal, death, darkness, secrets reveled, violence, hope, forgiveness, and maybe even love (ALL THINGS TO EXPECT FROM THE MAFIA WORLD). By the time you’ve figured out who is who and what is what, you’re already hooked, and you may as well give up the fight and prepare yourself for an all-nighter! CAN’T SAY YOU WEREN’T WARNED!!!!!. Kieran sexy as all get out ruthless when needed, loyal to those who are loyal to him, working alongside his best friend achieving the goal to eliminating the worse of the worst together, and when his best friend needs a favor of course he agrees without hesitation. Aurora works my nerves so much through this I just want to sit her down to try to talk some sense into her, but I also like that she is feisty, sassy as all get out, doesn’t take much sitting down, and give as much trouble as she can to her brother’s best friend no matter how sexy he may be. Her naive surprises me considering she grew up knowing how horrible her father and his friends are, even knowing the truth she stills try doing her own thing with a huge target on her back. But they do say it is a thin line between love and hate she has crushed on Kieran for as long as she can remember but instead of being real, she shows him so much hatred despite he is the only man that makes her feel safe. Between her crazy best friend and the sister of his best friend sister keeps him on his toes, but will she realize just how much trouble she causes, will she tone down the attitude, can he get her to see the big picture of them working to get rid of the worst of the worst, will they stop dancing around each other giving and find the happiness somewhere along the route of discovery?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[~lil maso~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner

This dark romance is the first book by this author that I have read but I am definitely going to read more as I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It has quite a few tropes: forced proximity then forced marriage, enemies to lovers, brothers best friend, and mafia/underground criminal world but don’t be fooled into thinking there’s too much because it all fits in perfectly.

There is a terrific solid storyline in this fast-paced book with its intriguing backstory, interesting characters, and emotional push and pull. The relationship between the two lead characters, Aurora and Kieran, is extremely rocky. Basically built on miscommunication and misconceptions on behalf of both characters. Aurora’s loss of freedom is what casts a huge shadow over everything that happens between the two initially. Kieran’s feeling of almost entrapment and then his appreciation for his bride-to-be throws him for a loop too. Then there’s his absolute obsession with Aurora, mind you she has touches of that herself too. Things start to change and both Aurora and Kieran go through quite a large repertoire of emotions.

The secondary characters are terrific too, well not all especially Aurora’s father—he’s a rotter through and through! Cameron, Cato and Chiara, and Hayden are all great characters and I am so looking forward to reading their stories.

The are some great twists and turns in the story, especially in the last twenty percent, making it exciting and very entertaining. Mind you… a submarine? Oh well, it is fiction. 😉

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

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[Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved loved loved this. What I don't love is the bags under my eyes as I read through the night ignoring the dawn!

I adore all the tropes here. Mafia; enforced marriage; obsessive possessive hero; strong willed heroine; plot rich; excellently rounded supporting characters and twists and turns in the story.

My only criticism? The sudden appearance of a submarine (who has those on standby unless you are government?) but no matter all is forgiven as the book reached its exciting and bloody climax.

What I loved most was the evolution of the relationship between the reluctant Aurora and the soon to be obsessive hero Kieran.

Oh yes Kieran, my new book boyfriend! You are EVERYTHING! This mafia man went through literally every possible emotion in this book (a satisfyingly long read) and proved himself to be utterly swoon worthy. Similarly, Aurora, manipulated entirely by her misguided and evil father finds herself in an intolerable situation. Does she try and extricate herself or adapt? Don't underestimate Aurora!

It is so unusual in dark romances to really feel you live through the slow and very real metamorphosis of a couples relationship. Here it is recorded on every page. The writing is brilliant. Never shying away from the tough stuff and by barely the middle of the book I was rooting for a HEA, such was my investment in these 2 characters. One an innocent and the other an anti hero.

And the steam? OMG! Beautifully written and sometimes brutally written. Just perfect!! Be still my beating heart!!

As I mentioned, there are a number of extraordinarily well written 'B' characters worthy of their own stories and I was delighted to read the author's notes at the end promising these. Count me in...... or rather find me counting the days.

Kudos Bianca Borell, I'm a fan girl!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Trishaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a love story? I devoured each and every single in this book. Damn... I don't even know whether I'll come out from this book anytime soon.

Kieran - This man stole my heart the day he held his girl in his arm and promised to rule the hell just to save her. I truly don't know which woman would hate him. If it was in my hands I would imprison him and make sure no one gets to see him. He is a Monster but for her he's an Angel.

Aurora - I would love to have her as my friend. She would honestly do anything to keep the people around her happy. As Kieran says... Everyone's would love her. She's so selfless and I completely lost my heart to her character as well.

So far I didn't read any book that gave importance to the couple's honeymoon like this. Their one month of honeymoon was breath taking. I truly forgot how to breathe while reading chapter 25 😅

Not to forget Kieran's possessiveness. There was this one scene where he made my stomach dip by his one move.

💜He crashes on the end and I climb into bed next to him, and he throws his arm around me. “Mine, no one else’s.” I glance at him, this sculpture of a man who exudes power even in his sleep, subdued by vulnerability, by guilt, by fear.💜

I truly don't have any words to describe how beautiful this scene was while reading the book. The author did a good job at explaining how much Kieran and Aurora are hooked up to each other forever.

If you read till then please do add this book to your TBR list. I'm sure you won't regret a second for starting this book.

Cato and Hayden.... Please let me meet you soon with your lovely girls. I surely adored the importance of each and every character in this book. From Kieran's nine year old sister to Aurora's Dead mom.

Thank you so much for ARC and by blessing me with heart touching story @bianca.borell and @greyspromo I honestly would write a whole new book just praising this masterpiece.

[Brandi-Lynn Weiser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sinners Obsession is my first book I’ve read by Bianca. I’m left w/mixed feelings about this one, there was so much I really loved about this book & one very big thing I didn’t- & that was the mfc,Aurora. There were so many times I wanted to quit because I honestly couldn’t stand her. She was so childish, immature & acted like a spoiled brat. And her friend Chiara was absolutely no better, she was just rude, selfish & a b****. Instead of being happy for Aurora she kept insisting she was brainwashed because there was no way Aurora could be happy w/Kieran. And it really made me mad that Aurora wasn’t firmer & stand up for Kieran & set her friend right. One minute Aurora wanted honesty & trust w/Kieran, but she kept a huge secret f/him, & what she led Kieran to believe at one point was disgusting. Because when he realized she lied to him about her virginity, he was devastated & that made my heart hurt for him. My heart broke for Kieran, he kept trying & begging her to try & accept their marriage, he wanted to make it work, but she kept fighting him at every turn. She gave more loyalty to a man she didn’t know & put Chiara first over her own marriage & husband. And she knew Kieran her whole life, had a crush on him & wanted to be w/him, so for her to behave the way she did throughout this entire book was wrong. I had to laugh at one point when she thought Chiara should accept her life instead of being miserable! Yet she couldn’t do that.
With that being said, I loved everything else about this book … the brothers best friend, forced marriage trope. And I loved Kieran! And as much as I’m very interested in Cato, I don’t know if I could read about Chiara. After witnessing her in this book, I really couldn’t stand her. But I am very very interested in Cameron’s story & can’t wait for that!

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

Wow, I am absolutely breathless reading this book, this story had me flipping pages, the characters were really sensational. This story was about Aurora and Kieran’s, this book had me on one major roller-coaster ride of emotions. Aurora lived at an all girls Catholic school because her father didn't like her after what her mother did. Her father rang to tell her she is to come home and then hung up. She finally got home only to be told he is too busy for a talk and told her that he has a party in a few day and she better be on her best behaviour. At the party she felt she was meat on display. Through the night Aurora was kidnapped so when she woke up not known where she was until she sees Kieran her brothers best friend, she asked him what was she doing there he told her what was happening, she could not comprehend was he was saying. Aurora kept trying to escape she wanted to be free, Kieran would keep catching her and he told her so. Kieran took her shopping they were only having a small wedding he also told her that she could start college that he would do anything to protect her. Aurora didn't know what to do she had a crush on Kieran when she was much younger, so now her brain is scattered this had always been a dream of hers. Her friend wanted to be free and needed help she wanted to be free and not stay married to a criminal, Aurora got someone to come and get them but what they didn't know was they traded one prison for another, until someone broke in and shot all the soldiers, Aurora was kidnapped. When Aurora woke up she panicked who kidnapped her and doesn't know if she could survive he then took her belt off and started to whip her she just prayed someone would save her.

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

[Rachel Hill · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a first read by a new to me author. Based on the blurb I knew I wanted to read it and I really, really wanted to love it. I think the premise is great, I love all the trope-ish things.. Although I wouldn't call it mafia. It's more of just a band of brothers born into wealth and demolishing the people that have perceivably done them wrong.
I wanted to LOVE the characters but there wasn't a lot of building the characters up and maybe I'm so firmly entrenched in "series" land where you build them up and keep seeing them in upcoming books and that's why they kind of fell flat for me.
I almost DNF the book about the 50% mark. I put it down and read 2 other arcs because it just couldn't hold my attention. Almost the whole first half was to me needless back and forth and once they "demolished" their target, which I thought was the biggest plot point (aside from the sexy af sexy times, making Aurora fall head over heels, and bringing Kieren to his knees lol) everything shifted and the mystery man really did become THE biggest part of the story. From about the 65-ish % on, now that was a story and I'd like to have seen the majority of the book written like that. There was action, sexy, plot, twists...not all that needless back and forth. I get that a book needs drama, but just back and forth "I'll make you mine" and "I'll hold steadfast to my heart, it's not yours to take" gets old fast.
The last 35-40% of the book was great. I'm glad I held on and finished.
Will I read more by this author? Probably yes, because I think it's all right there, it's just limiting the less important, and writing to keep you invested and entertained and then end of Sinner's Obsession was way better than the beginning.
I've gotta go with 3 stars here because I did finish and overall it was okay.

[Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great start to the Syndicate of Sinner's series. Three guys who have pledged to be the most powerful game in town and take down the sick evil men who think they're in power but have no idea what's coming for them. They're a brotherhood of sorts and operate like a small-scale mafia with a select group of trusted men. Kieren, Cameron, and Cato have spent the last seven years working on ways to build their wealth, plotting how to take out Cameron's dad, and a few other guys who pretty much don't deserve to be breathing anymore. But Cameron's dad calls his sister home from the school she's been at and they know it can't be good, so Cameron calls in his favor (they each get one from each other) from Kieran. Now Kieran has to marry his sister, who Kieran adored when she was little but now she's all grown, gorgeous, and pretty much hates him because he kidnaps her from her house and Aurora finds she's traded one prison for another.
Loved Kieran. He's a man who's done bad things and will continue to do them but he's all in with Aurora and he will do anything to make sure she's safe. He just has to convince her he means it and get her to give them a chance. Aurora has been kept in the dark about so much since she was shipped half way across the world from her dad and brother and now that she's back her hope had been to go to college and have freedom, something she's never had before. But that dream gets wiped out pretty quick when she's forced to marry Kieran and she doesn't want to give him a chance, she wants out. So much tension between them at first and Aurora gives Kieran so much sass it's funny but they're combustible together and once she gives in and lets her guard down she can't help but fall in love with Kieran just as much as he loves her. An enjoyable read with all the heat and intrigue of a great mafia romance.

[Robyn Corcoran · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
This dark romance is the first book by this author that I have read but I am definitely going to read more as I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It has quite a few tropes: forced proximity then forced marriage, enemies to lovers, brothers best friend and mafia/underground criminal world but don’t be fooled into thinking there’s too much because it all fits in perfectly.

There is a terrific solid storyline in this fast-paced book with its intriguing backstory, interesting characters and emotional push and pull. The relationship between the two lead characters, Aurora and Kieran, is extremely rocky. Basically built on miscommunication and misconceptions on behalf of both characters. Aurora’s loss of freedom is what casts a huge shadow over everything that happens between the two initially. Kieran’s feeling of almost entrapment then his appreciation for his bride-to-be throws him for a loop too. Then there’s his absolute obsession with Aurora, mind you she has touches of that herself too. Things start to change and both Aurora and Kieran go through quite a large repertoire of emotions.

The secondary characters are terrific too, well not all especially Aurora’s father—he’s a rotter through and through! Cameron, Cato and Chiara, and Hayden are all great characters and I am so looking forward to reading their stories.

The are some great twists and turns in the story, especially in the last twenty percent, making it exciting and very entertaining. Mind you… a submarine? Oh well, it is fiction. 😉

[MariMari · Rating 4 out of 5]

OK time for another semi-lengthy review. My personal rating for this book is a 3.8/5, before you click away from this review for the somewhat lower rating hear me out for a sec. The storyline is really good I feel, but I do believe it was rushed in some areas, or it moved on to another event without fully closing or giving reason for the abrupt switch.

Especially in some steamy scenes, (and maybe its because i read smut a whole ton), but it really is like, yes they have sex, 3 sentence and boom its two weeks later.

I believe that Kieran (the male character) and Aurora do have this somewhat dark romance bond between the two, but it feels as if Aurora gave in because he was good at sex and hot at times.

Overall, I believe if you are into over-protective, somewhat toxic, brother's best friend, and possesive type novels this would be for you. But I do NOT reccomend this if you are looking for some hard core smut.

Favorite Quotes:
-“Such a good girl, craving to be tainted by a sinner while she calls on God.”
-“Kieran.” I’d pawn my heart. I’d be someone else’s willing slave, do anything just so I didn’t hear the fear in her voice while trying to make me think she’s fine.
-It’s a bullet wound. It went straight through. It’s nothing compared to the days without Aurora.
-He tugs me to him and sobs as he tells me, “Don’t leave me. Don’t fucking leave me.”
-Throwing my head back, I roar. I don’t fucking want to live in a world where she’s not in it. I won’t.
-Every second feels as if she is slipping closer to death. I will join her if that’s the only way I can be with her.
-With the sweetest kiss on my lips, he says, “I love you, Aurora. You’re the sweetest addiction, the purest delight. My one and only love.”

[Ana Rita · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's always amazing to read books written by new authors.
The thrill of finding out a new book is exciting and when it's a genre that I love, I'm all in.
Bianca Borell is a new author to me and her writing is raw and wild. So intense that knocked me off my feet.
Sinner's Obsession is her latest release and explores the lives of Aurora and Kieran.
Aurora just wants to be free from her cruel father. She hates him so much and living in fear is taking a toll on her.
When she's taken, her life takes a turn but for the best or the worst?
Kieran is ruthless, cold, and a killer with no conscience or regrets. His goal is to kill the man who murdered his father.
When his best friend asks him to protect his sister...
Boy oh boy... What a book...
Dayum, I'm still shaking from the intensity of the entire thing.
Spectacular plot, well written, super engaging, dark, intense, and cruel.
Jesus, these guys have one twisted mind.
The story progressed in a way that I couldn't stop reading.
It was one thing after the other, one hit after the other that made me eager to know more.
Aurora is so sweet and naive and Kieran is like the big bad wolf.
It was fantastic to witness their relationship evolving.
I'm not gonna lie, there were parts of the book that I wanted to slap someone silly... Jesus, stubborn much? But then this game would change and I just wanted to hold them close and promise better days.
Loved the chemistry they shared and getting ready for something more...
It was an amazing premier for me and I want more books from you Bianca.
Lived this book. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ms. Borell is a new author to me and she is one that I will be adding to my TBR list. Sinner's Obsession is a forced proximity, he falls first romance full of angst and intrigue. Ms. Borell gives s a story that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat as well as having your heart skip a beat or two. Kieran and Aurora had a hate-to-love and love-to-hate relationship that had the banter between the two of them funny but at the same time emotional. Kieran is her brother's best friend and is involved with the mafia as well. Not knowing what her father had in store for her but her gut told her that since he seemed to hate her it was not going to be something that would be safe or something that she would want. In walks, Kieran and her world is turned upside down. Did he go from one hell to another when he kidnaps her? Does he have an ulterior motive for taking her other than to keep her safe? Being forced to be with someone that you hate can go both ways. But did Aurora always hate him? Will he be able to keep her safe?

There is so much that happens throughout this book that had my full attention right from the start. The innocence of Aurora and the ruthless, angry exterior, which covers a man who is caring and protective made this story one that I could not put down. The danger that was at the turn of every page had my stomach in knots and my head spinning. I cannot wait for Cato and Chiara's story. highly recommend picking up Sinner's Obsession as well as adding Ms. Borell to your TBR list.

[Susan McWhinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Living the last 7 years in a private girl's school, Aurora's father summons her home. Knowing nothing good can happen when she returns to the States, she is surprised by an unexpected visit from an unknown uncle. He promises her freedom but is too late as her father swoops in and has her sent back to the States and to him. When she finds out he is selling her to the highest bidder, she knows that the freedom she desperately craves is never going to happen.
Her brother Cameron promises to protect her, and being in an organization with Kieran and Cato, he gets Kieran to agree to a blood pledge to rescue and protect his sister.
What starts out as a marriage of convenience, soon changes for Kieran. Aurora feels she has traded one prison for another, with Kieran, in an unwanted marriage to him. This book is swoon worthy as the alpha male falls first, desperately needing to hear Aurora admit her feelings for him. He would burn down the world to protect Aurora, but she finds this hard to believe, as their marriage starts out very rocky.
But Aurora needs her freedom, or so she thinks and is happy to help her best friend Chiara escape Cato's grip on her. She uses her uncle to help plan and execute the escape from Cato and Kieran.
A brilliant story with a lot of darkness and passion, that is all encompassing and has you in its thrall. A single sit down read as I could not put this book down as the love for Aurora and Kieran evolves and flourishes. A worthy 5 star read as Kieran is in constant battle to keep his wife safe from the evils that lurk at every turn.

[Elie Hernalsteen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mind blowing ! I need more of this series ! I'm speechless. I don't have enough words to do justice to this book and its author.
I like every piece of this book. Every characters were perfect in a sens.

Aurora is such a wonderful character and she deserves a better father than hers. She grew up away from her family after a tragedy. I don't know how she has the strength to always forgive people. Even when she forgives, she fights for herself and what she truly wants.
After his father accident, Kieran has to grew up fast, too fast. He provides for his mother (even if their relationship isn't in good terms) and his little sister (what a sweetheart). He's ruthless and morally grey. But this man is loyal to his friends ! Kieran is the alpha male by excellence but he is everything I like.


The relationship between Aurora and Kieran is full of challenges, love, hurts and passion.
Cameron, Aurora's brother became really fast my favourite. I want to read more about him.

What I love in this book is the romance, the drama, the relationship between the characters and the emotions. Bianca Borell has a gift to write the emotions of her characters.
Her writing is a beautiful and brillant.

I'm a bit like Aurora. Both of us love to read and writing. I really connected with her. It's an other think that I love in this book.


I received this book from Wildfire marketing in exchange of an honest review.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aurora was sent away by father to a convent school overseas after the death of her mother when suddenly she’s called back home to learn her father basically intends to sell her to the highest bidder only for Kieran Hunt to step in and save her from a fate worse than death. Kieran who was one third of a crime syndicate along with his two friends including Aurora’s brother was reluctant to marry Aurora but her brother called in a favour and once he did, he was all in and he soon became obsessed with her, ready to kill anyone who dared to even think about trying to take her from him. Aurora is a little different. All she’s ever wanted was to go to college and have a normal life, but she’s conflicted by the feelings she has for Kieran.

A new to me author and Sinner’s Obsession covers several of my favourite tropes including forced marriage, enemies to lovers, brothers best friend and mafia to name but a few all rolled up into a deliciously dark romance. Throw in an anti-hero in the shape of Kieran Hunt albeit one with a heart that only beats for Aurora and I was a goner. With a chemistry factor that almost had the steam rising from my kindle, a plot full of twists, turns and danger and a strong cast of intriguing secondary characters leaving me hopeful of more from the Syndicate of Sinners series, Bianca Borell is definitely an author I’ll be looking out for in the future.

[Black Girl Tired Energy Book reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Troupes
Dark Mafia Romance
Forced Marriage
Enemies to Lover

Trigger Warnings
Touch her and die
Sexual Assault
Abuse
Violence
Death


Aurora always known her father hated her especially after her mother's betrayal and that she resembles her so much. When she's brought back to her childhood home after being sent away when she was child...she learns she will be married off to vile vicious man. Aurora's brother ask a favor of their childhood friend Kieran the one person he knows can save his sister from the evil wolves that their money hunger father is trying to throw her too. Kieran has decided to use the marriage as another step to further his vengeance against the man who killed his father and Aurora is the way to get closer to accomplishing this. This was a enemies to lovers, but at the same time it really wasn't... though it was definitely dark mafia romance. I was at first so annoyed with Aurora, but then I was rooting for her...though her bestfriend was getting on my last nerve in the story can we say self sabotage! I was team Kieran and Aurora definitely was rooting for their love to bloom in the story. The plot twist was right on time in the story and really had me going. The HAWTNESS OF THE SEXYTIME WAS FABULOUS ! I can't wait to see book two in the triangle relationships amongst the friends and family.