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Seven Sin Sisters #1

Lustful Cravings

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Seven sisters are entwined in a legacy bigger than anyone ever expected. One by one, they will find their mates from the immortal Valendite breeds and secure their place in history. Each sister embodies one of the seven deadly sins only to be cast aside once claimed. But claiming comes at the price of separation, causing a weakening of their combined powers, which none want to happen... until Layla, holding the sin of lust within her body, locks eyes with Madden.

Madden is one of the strongest of the Valendite Breed, a group of near-immortal men originating from the Italian Wars in the 1500s. Today, the Valendite Breed serve as the Terrorist Elimination Unit (TEU), their only weakness being their body’s need for a mate to carry on the Breed. So now that Madden has found Layla, he will never let her go.

With forces mounting up against the Breed, Madden and Layla will need to rely on their powers combined to get them to their Pronouncement.

96 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 6, 2012

1 person is currently reading
129 people want to read

About the author

Paloma Beck

17 books155 followers
Paloma Beck is a Romance Author living a life of contradiction... she's a happily married carpooling mom writing steamy romance. It's almost naughty and she loves it! Paloma writes both contemporary and paranormal romances that are anything but PG. She published her first book in 2012 and hasn't slowed down since. Look for more information at http://www.romancebeckons.net.

With her husband and three sons, the Blue Ridge mountains have been her home for twenty years. There's still a special place in her heart though for New England where she spent her childhood. The lakes of Maine call her name and someday she hopes to find her way back there.

She also writes New Adult Romance as Becca Layne.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Jenn Shanks Crouse.
32 reviews6 followers
August 15, 2012
Say what you will about the paranormal genre being repetitious and overdone - Ms. Beck puts that rumor to rest. Creating a who new world of paranormal creatures (the Valendite Breed) - a little bit magical, a little bit vampy and a whole lot of alpha male sexy! Combine that with a race of women (the Circle of Magdalena) with powers of their own, bound by their "soul sin", you have that blissful concept of a pre-destined mate tempered with the modern need to have trust, affection and love earned.

Never shy about venting my frustrations with the world building that normally occurs with the first book in a new series - Lustful Cravings manages to weave a spell that leaves the reader with a general understanding of who the players are and what their world is about without being overly descriptive or over-divulging as many first introductions are. Ms. Beck provides the reader with enough information about these Sinster Sisters that every single one of their hopefully HEA stories is a tantalizing morsel one is willing to wait for. There are still enough mysteries about the Valendite Breed and their covert missions for TEU that upcoming story lines should be surprising and exciting as well. Thankfully, the next in the series will release soon so the wait wont be terribly painful!

As for characters themselves, Layla is an interesting choice for a first story - the youngest and embodying possibly the most complicated soul sin of lust - she's a virgin who has never felt the need to connect outside her family home because her sin has never kicked in until that fateful night she spies Madden in a crowded club. Watching Madden go completely alpha to get the mate he wants and needs is sexy and intense. That he actually takes such care to ensure it isn't the traumatic experience it could have been is endearing.

The added complication of Anton into the mix takes the story from a sexy read to a sizzling read. The concept of the rare Tre Adoro between Madden, Layla and Anton, a different type of Valendite Breed, makes for one supremely hot symbiotic relationship. Like the perfect triangle, all three sides are equal and derive strength and support from each other and cannot do without any one piece missing. Find that in a menage relationship and you have the makings of sheer brain candied heaven!

Well written, cleverly crafted, strong but appealing characters and a unique story line with sizzling hot erotic love scenes - this is a new author to watch out for!

RATING: Five Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries! This book was given to us by the author for an unbiased review. Many thanks.

This review was originally written for the Guilty Indulgence Bookclub: http://guiltyindulgencebookclub.blogs...
Profile Image for Jennifer Moody.
74 reviews38 followers
September 13, 2012
I was given this book by the author for my honest review.

WOW!!! Those are the only words I have to describe this book! It was amazing and so many ways and I'm pretty sure my mouth dropped to the floor every other page. I don't really read romance books and I really don't read books that are this steamy, but after reading this book I might just have to change my genre! With all the steamy parts in this book, It makes me want to read the next one in the series when it comes out! I will be waiting and counting down the days til it's out.
Layla is part of the Circle of Magdalena. Each women part of this circle has one of the seven deadly sins, Layla is Lust. Layla is the youngest sister out of 3 and is very innocent in my eyes and is still a virgin. She has never had to fight all of her urges and her power. There are so many good parts one of them are Madden. My oh My do I need a hot sexy Madden in my life! Yes I know he is just a character in a book but O.M.G! Who doesn't want a Madden knocking and pounding on their door demanding to be let in??!! Then there is Anton, who is just like Madden, but also somehow different in his own ways.
My Rating:
4 out of 5 stars
16 reviews2 followers
July 17, 2012
Excellent start to an exciting new series!!!!
Profile Image for ReadingDiva Book Reviews.
499 reviews83 followers
September 17, 2012
** Originally Posted @ SinfulReads Blog

Lustful Cravings is only 96 pages but do not let the length of the story fool you. This story introduces us to a new series that promises to be good. The plot isn’t complex yet it gives us a glimpse to what’s to come. The Valendite Breed isn’t your typical vampire breed. There is uniqueness to them. They are known to exist yet the knowledge of their existence is well protected. They live and walk among humans and serve a very specific purpose. I liked the story because it is different from other paranormal vampire series I have read. Their role is to help humans and their destiny is to find their mates which are possessed by one of the 7 deadly sins.

The Valendites Breed was created by scientists, genetically altered men for the main purpose of winning a war. These men were later given gifts that would change their future and the future of their species. I totally think this new concept of generically engineer sort of vampires brings the most needed change to an already saturated genre.
Madden is a very powerful breed and his power comes in many forms. He is in charge of an immortal organization that forms a secret branch under the CIA. One of his many talents is that he is immune to certain type of magic. Because of the nature in which they have lived and moved throughout the world the chances to finding a mate is slim. When he finds Layla he knows she is the one. Layla knows she found her mate when her body can hardly contain the lust she felt when she met eyes with Madden.

I found these two characters so loving and cute. I totally enjoyed Layla’s character. She is smart, beautiful and sweet. Madden is sexy, intelligent and very manly and will not stop until he has made Layla his mate. There is an awesome twist to this story; it will make the reader wish they had their own Tre Adoro.
The characters are likable, their dialog flows easily. There interaction is believable and their love and dedication to their mate will make your heart ache. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. It is witty, imaginative and creative. I am looking forward to reading more from Paloma Beck an author you want to keep an eye on.
Profile Image for Monica **can't read fast enough**.
1,033 reviews374 followers
June 3, 2014
What did I just read you ask? I just read one of the best ding dang short erotic paranormal romances that I have read in a long time! I don't generally enjoy books under 100 pages because it is seems very difficult for authors, especially in this genre where world building is important, to tell a good story in so little space. However, Paloma Beck has done it and done it well. Plus I'm a cheapskate and I don't feel I get much bang for my buck from a short story. Sorry authors, but it's the truth. However, Beck has me giddy with excitement. There wasn't anything about this story that I didn't like. You get the main lead female and male characters getting together right away of course, but it seems perfectly acceptable when you know why it happens so quickly.

Layla is the youngest of the seven Sinster sisters who are all part of the Magdalena Circle and have powers and destinies that are directly linked to the Valendite Breed with whom they are meant to mate. Each sister bears the mark of a sin that she is released from after finding her mate. For Layla, lust is her marked sin. Madden, a powerful and respected Valendite Breed male, is her eternal mate. However, their mating has a unique twist that Layla never could have anticipated. That's all I'm going to say on that one, I don't want to spoil anything for those who haven't read the book. But it was a twist that happened so fast that I almost got whip lash!

This little gem is firmly in the erotica category so if you are easily offended by extremely steamy scenes and need only sweet romance that discretely and delicately hints at passion please don't pick this one up-you may get a case of the vapors! I, in all of my jadedness, enjoyed this very much. This is the first time that I have ever given a book so short a five star rating, but Beck did something phenomenal by making me fall in love with a world in under 100 pages! I am so pleased that I had the opportunity to read Lustful Cravings and can't wait to dive into book 2 Eternal Envy.

**I promise that I was not paid to gush this much over this short little book, but I did receive a copy in exchange for an honest review from the author. Beck's gamble on me just paid off!**
Profile Image for Tyra Berger.
529 reviews19 followers
August 14, 2012
What a fabulous beginning to a new series from first time author Paloma Beck. She has created a world with new and different paranormal characters with unique abilities. She packed a LOT of story into 100 pages and left me wanting more.

Madden is a member of the Valendite Breed, which is a race of immortals who have some vampire characteristics, in that they take blood to sustain their immortality.

Layla is a member of the Circle of Magdalena a race of women who are the destined mates of the Valendites with powers and a curse all their own. Each Magdalena woman has one of the seven deadly sins as her soul sin and depending on that sin has either had to fight to control it or has never experienced it.

Layla's soul sin is lust and it is a feeling that she has never experienced in her life until the night that she runs into Madden at a bar on a girls night out with her sisters. Panicked, Layla runs from Madden but there is no denying what she feels for him and Madden is letting her get away that easily.

What you think is a love story between two people becomes a rare Tre Adoro between Madden, Layla and Anton, who is a Valendite, but a different kind. They have a symbiotic relationship and one that is so strong no one could survive without the other two.

There are so many layers to this book that you will find yourself at the end wanting much more. I had so many questions that weren't fully answered that if I could I would buy the next book right now just to learn more about these people. It's not just a love story, there are elements of suspense in the TEU storyline that I hope are brought out more in the following books.

If you are looking for something different, gripping and sexy then pick up the first in the Sin Sisters series, Lustful Cravings and indulge.
Profile Image for Kirsten.
697 reviews28 followers
September 9, 2013
This was a truly unique spin on the Vampire legend. I've got to hand it to Paloma, she came up with some really good lore. Layla is a Circle of Magdalena witch, meant to be a mate only to the man she first feels lust for; that's Madden. Madden is of the Valendite Breed. They are made for each other. Layla's sin is Lust. She is also the first of seven sisters to be mated. This just jumped right into the storyline, and damn, that Madden is hot! And what a lucky girl Layla is, she not only gets Madden, but also Anton. More smexy lore. Anton is their Tre Amore. The third to their couple. They are not complete without him. There are plenty of mouth watering, smouldering, oh so sexy scenes and danger as well. I really enjoyed reading this book and can't wait for the next. Paloma's got a new fan. Definitely 4 1/2 stars in my opinion.

I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Gardavson.
1,137 reviews12 followers
March 3, 2014
This book has a bit more plot than many erotic stories, especially considering its somewhat short length. It started abruptly, right at the beginning of the heart of the story. Perhaps some lead in to build the world would have helped smooth things out a bit. As it was, the characters would sometimes make statements with the purpose of informing the reader, that made the dialogue a bit awkward and unnatural. Mostly that occurred at the beginning though, with the world building. The plot was good with lots of promise. This book would be a perfect candidate for a full length novel, taking the time to pull out the characters and the world. Still, as a short, it was a fun, enjoyable read. I didn't want to put it down and was sad when it ended. I loved the premise of the Breed and the role between the mates.
Profile Image for Ndulgent Bloggers.
583 reviews84 followers
August 14, 2012
Layla is the youngest of the Seven Sin Sisters and the least interested in men or mating even though her soul sin is Lust. It was not until she saw the man she was destined to mate that she opened herself to her truly lustful soul. What follows is a steamy love story of two individual who share an incredible love both emotionally and physically. In addition, you get to know the personalities of Layla’s sisters and Madden’s close friends and brothers, so you are very excited to see who pairs up next. An excellent beginning to what promises to be a hot and interesting series.

**We did a full week feature on this author - see our blog archive for dates.**

For our full review, go to: http://guiltyindulgencebookclub.blogs...
Profile Image for Katie.
11 reviews3 followers
February 28, 2013
Oh. My. Menage. yum!
This story gave me my first encounter with the "trois". And it was delicious. The two lead male characters were "to die for" HOT.
And the female lead was beautiful, but likeable and real.
The sexual chemistry between them was so well written, that I found myself having to take "smoke breaks" often.
My only wish would have been for the action sequences to have been a bit longer. I love action scenes almost as much as I love romantic scenes.
This was a very fun, and highly erotic (but not pornographic) story.
I can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for Karen ~ Divhine.
126 reviews3 followers
April 27, 2019
Lustful Cravings is the first book in the Seven Sisters series and I thought the world building and the details of the Valendite Breed and the Sinster family were well written. The story was easy to read and the characters were well defined. Madden was very much the alpha male, but so caring and sweet with Layla. Great start to the series. I received this book from the author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
506 reviews10 followers
August 19, 2012
Steamy scenes, rich characters and underlying suspense make this first book in the Seven Sin Sisters series a delicious read.
Profile Image for Marta Cox.
2,862 reviews210 followers
February 25, 2014
I got this book expecting it to be a paranormal romance but it's far more than just that. This steamy read is a combination that I truly was surprised by. Quite erotic and featuring a ménage this is most definitely not aimed at younger readers. Quite a quick read but ideal for those who enjoy just dipping into a short story. Ths is the first book in the Seven Sin Sisters series and sets the scene for more books to follow.
Lustful Cravings tells the story of Layla and her fated mate Madden. Layla is sweet, innocent and carries the sin of lust. She's always hoped for love but meeting Madden throws her childish dreams out the window. Madden is a rare type of vampire and having found Layla he has no intention of losing her. Claiming her as his own Madden is driven to protect her but he carries a secret. It's a secret that could well see Layla in danger as Madden is an agent with the CIA and terrorists would like nothing more than to eliminate Madden and anyone he cares for!
There is a lot of background to this series and I feel it could very well turn out to be such an exciting one but for me this the opening book lacked something. I found the idea to be an interesting one but for some reason it just didn't quite feel fresh enough. I would have liked to see the plot fleshed out a lot more but instead the action towards the end seemed just a little rushed. A great deal of this book is centred around the relationship forming between the hero and heroine and I have to point out here that there is a third person who becomes involved with them. If ménage is not your thing then it's best that you are warned! Although to be fair to the author the relationships that evolved allowed the heroine Layla to blossom into a much more confident person and I greatly enjoyed her growth. This was very erotic with likeable characters and a depth of emotion that developed as the story unfolded.
As I've stated the background to this book is quite detailed and my biggest critismn would be that it's not fully explained until the story is virtually told . For this reader the history of this vampire like breed would have made more sense if we had learned it near the beginning but it's a great concept nevertheless .
So in conclusion if you want to read a steamy story that flows easily and features passionate and yet surprisingly loving characters then this might be for you. It's a good concept for a series although I do feel that fated mates has been done to death. It will be interesting to see where Ms Beck takes this series as there are still six sisters left to write about . Not quite what I expected if honest but the potential for a great series is there.
Copy provided by Netgalley
3 and a half from me
Profile Image for Eva Millien.
3,115 reviews45 followers
March 21, 2014
3 1/2 STARS

An intriguing vampire and witch erotic romance with some refreshingly unique elements. As the embodiment of Lust, Layla’s not ready to meet her mate, but when she meets Madden, one of the strongest of the Valendite Breeds she can’t deny the overwhelming lust. But as she struggles to accept her destiny, forces are mounting up against the Breeds and they will both have to rely on their powers to make it to their Pronouncement.

This fast paced plot keeps readers on their toes with suspense, action, and romance. The author paints vivid images to create a fantastic world of vampires and witches with her own refreshingly different spin that captures the imagination. The characters are strong, compelling and draw the reader deeper into their story with their intriguing abilities, destiny and connection.

The chemistry between Madden and Layla is off the charts, but when you add Anton the frequent sex scenes become scorching hot with lots of sensual scenes and menage a trios. Layla captures the heart with her kind of shy vulnerability because she wants to love not just lust in her mating and Madden’s dominant sexy attitude rocks the reader’s world.

To spice the story up even more the Valendite serve as the Terrorist Elimination Unit for the CIA which puts Layla’s life in danger as one of their enemies tries to use her as a pawn to discover the unit’s secrets.

I found the story to be an enjoyable and intriguing story with captivating characters and I will be reading the next books in the series, however I do think that the story could have been better if it was a little longer giving more information in some areas and expanding some scenes.
Profile Image for Two Nerds With Words.
941 reviews51 followers
October 4, 2012
Lustful Cravings has a fairly original concept for a new series, a series that is most definitely worth a read and a follow. The book opens immediately in the thick of unfolding action and drama, in addition to hot and steamy passion. This effectively not only sets the scene, but also provides the reader with an insight into the level of heat to expect from Madden and Layla.

Whilst we have some insight into Madden's gorgeous character, we largely follow Layla's character, a character that develops effectively and is most definitely likeable. The relationship built between these characters is very hot and sexy, with an increased level of emotional depth being developed as their story unfolds.

The emerging story lines around Madden's work, and the build up of drama felt a little rushed. I really would have like this to be developed somewhat. Also the history, which I think was very important, was included at an unusual time. So, whilst I really liked the concept and the characters the structure of the book was a little fragmented.

Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable steamy read with great potential for this series. 3.5 fluttering fairies (4 stars for Goodreads & Amazon etc).
Profile Image for Tracy.
70 reviews4 followers
March 13, 2014
Lustful Craving by Paloma Beck is a great Erotic Romance read. With sex scenes that are so much steamier than 50 Shades I would not recommend taking this book to work with you. It is a short read and perfect for vacation or the beach.

There were a couple of bumps in the flow and a little bit of repetitiveness but not as much as several books I've read recently.

It is the story of Seven Sisters who have magical powers and are destined to be the life mates of the Valendite. Layla is the youngest of the sisters and is wary of being mated to Madden, who is one of the strongest of the Valendite. As a reader and writer of romance novels she would rather fall in True Love then to be forced into an arranged marriage of sorts.

Overall I really enjoyed this story and look forward to learning more about these two groups of people. Most of the writing flowed well and the sex scenes where blush inducing. It is a story similar to The Blackdagger Brotherhood by JR Ward, The Anita Blake series by Laurell K Hamilton, the Drake Sisters series by Christine Feehan or the Wing Slayer Hunters by Jennifer Lyon.

I gave this book 4 out of 5 reads, If not for the few bumps and the little bit of repetitiveness it would have been 5 out of 5.
Profile Image for Mtsnow13.
498 reviews29 followers
May 5, 2013
Interesting premise, but feels a little like a lightweight repeat of Christine Feehan Dark Carpathian and Seven Sisters 's series as well as Lora Leigh Breed series. The heroine is a bit niave and timid for my tastes and makes me think more of my early forays into Harlequin romances more suited to a young adult just dipping their toe into erotica. I 'm sure this series will have a following into the younger market, maybe along the lines of young girls that thought 50 Shades was actually BDSM.

With some editing and deeper world -building and character development, this series has much potential. My apologies for taking so long in writing this review as I wanted to think on what I might say that would encourage the author to continue to write but to also understand that the audience might be more limited to a younger group just delving into erotica. If that is her goal, then I am sure the short novellas will be well received by a YA audience.

This book was given to me as an arc for an honest review. Thank you.
Profile Image for Secretly Reading.
944 reviews
August 30, 2012
An interesting concept for a series but the erotic interludes didn't allow for plot or world development. The instant mate trope is used here which is wearing thin on me but it will be fine for readers looking only for the sensual but I wanted more plot, character development and world building.

I like the concept of seven sisters who come into their magical powers when they find their mates. I'm a sucker for well imagined premises which this was. But the mate trope used in paranormal romance to bring couples together is wearing thin for me. Layla initially has concerns about this too but quickly capitulates. The emotional intimacy is missing here which makes the sex a bit mechanical in my opinion.

It should also be noted that even though it doesn't say it in the synopsis, this is a quasi-menage romance. Layla and Madden have a third who isn't part of the emotional romance but services Layla in the bedroom. I personally disliked this addition a lot since he was a servant in all ways, including emotional and sexual, and it felt extremely exploitative to me.
Profile Image for Carin.
388 reviews48 followers
September 13, 2012
This is book one in the Seven Sin Sisters series, in it we meet Layla the first of the Sin Sisters to find a mate, Layla is reluctant to leave the life she knows for one she has been "fated" with.
Madden is thrilled that Layla is his fated mate, but what he isn't telling her about his job with the CIA could be huge!
Cute story and a nice beginning to a series, I loved the heat that came from the mating. I liked the addition of Anton to the mix. I felt like all of the elements are here for a fantastic story and that Ms. Beck has created a great new legend for the vampire race.
I would love to have seen this be more novel length maybe even just 50 or so more pages to explain the legend a bit better, go into Anton more and to maybe go into why Layla is so reluctant more in depth. The sex was great and you could feel the bond between the trio and I am looking forward to the next book to see where things go.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Bookish Satty.
958 reviews32 followers
September 14, 2013
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.

Firstly I would like to thank Paloma Beck, author of Lustful Cravings, for giving me this wonderful chance of reading and reviewing this book.

Well to be honest firstly I would like to say that the story seemed to revolve around the mating part a lot and the other essential parts like a solid plot and world building seemed to be missing.

If you talk about the sensual element then this book have it definitely and anyone who like a steamy read will love it that I can guarantee but for me this novella didn't quite reach the bench mark.

The blurb really excited me but I got a little disappointed with the whole story and I felt is rushed and sometimes it even seemed t get confusing.

Hope to get some great developments in the next installment.
Profile Image for Jeni.
45 reviews6 followers
September 14, 2013
First and foremost let me begin by stating that I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review. Thank you

This book is sexy, fun and gripping. I know it sounds like saying “I read playboy for the articles”. But it’s true; the story had a new spin on the overdone vampire story. I liked the idea of depending on each other to survive, instead of roaming the earth sucking stranger’s blood. Although, I must admit I was a bit disappointment with the action scene, when Layla was kidnapped. I also have tons of questions left: What did Gracie want to talk to Layla about? Is Gracie a lesbian? Can woman be a Tre Adoro? Can Layla and Anton only be together if Madden is with them?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Monica.
171 reviews1 follower
September 27, 2012
This is a paranormal romance that's not bad for a first time published author. There could have been more world-building and character development. That may come in subsequent books because Lustful Cravings is the first book in a series that features 7 sisters belonging to the Magdalena family. They are destined to become the fated mates of vampire-like heroes belong to an ancient Italian clan named the Valendites.
I feel the fated mates premise is a bit overused, but I did enjoy the book.
Profile Image for D Thomas.
652 reviews34 followers
September 28, 2012
I was given this book by the author for review.

Lustful Cravings is the first book in the Seven Sisters series. To me, it sets the story line to come.

I know that some don't like the instant mate thing, but I thought it did a great job of catching my attention from the get go.

I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Celeste.
950 reviews36 followers
March 27, 2014
What a surprisingly fantastic read! I truly enjoyed this story, definitely a different take on PNR. At times I felt a little like I missed something, but then all questions were answered. I almost feel Anton should have a bigger role in there dynamic but I also love beautiful arrangement. This has to be the cleanest, simple menage story I have read yet, and yet I almost want more, hehehe.
1 review1 follower
Read
September 13, 2012
I really loved the book and I can't wait for the second installment comes out!
Profile Image for Maria Lazarou.
Author 45 books53 followers
February 23, 2014
Here we have a different concept of the paranormal romance.

I found it to be well written & a great read
Profile Image for Lydia.
523 reviews60 followers
May 2, 2014
There's no worse feeling than the one you get when you anticipate something so much, only to find utter disappointment at the end. But it was all my fault for requesting before fully checking the genres, I suppose...

The Sinster sisters... Seven sisters, each of whom has one of the seven deadly sins in her soul. Those sins are to be activated as soon as the sisters meet their destined mates - men that belong to the Valendite Breed, a vampyric race that can only mate with women like the Sinsters, those belonging to the Circle of Magdalena. Layla, the youngest, is the first to experience this, as she meets Madden Santucci and her soul sin, Lust, makes her want to jump his bones. But lusting after someone and loving them are different things in her romantic mind, and she's not ready to submit to their bond and give him such control yet. Still, Madden is not one to wait. He's found his mate, he's had her once, and there's no way he's letting her take more time than necessary. Enemies that he has gained thanks to his leading position in the Terrorist Elimination Unit (TEU), a CIA branch very few know about, are closing in. And if he wants to keep not only his secret, but also Layla, safe, he will have to rush things a bit despite her wishes...

While Lustful Cravings looked like it needed some work in the writing and development department, I enjoyed the concept of soul sins and some of its characters. Unique and untried before, with a heavy dose of steamy love scenes - which, up until Anton came in the picture, were pretty damn hot. Madden tore her bra with his teeth - I repeat, his FREAKING teeth!



The only problem during the sexual acts was Madden's mouth. That's right! My close friends know I'm a sucker for talking during the act, but in Madden's case, I just wanted him to shut up and do his job. Why? Because, despite the fact he was wonderful when it came to speaking words of romance and eternal love and belonging to Layla and what-not, in bed he would keep talking like this. While being rough. I mean, correct me if I'm wrong, but when you're roughening it up, you're not supposed to keep up the sweet talk - hell, even when he would demand something and use the F word he would sound like he was asking for the bill at a five-star restaurant!!!

And that was the least of my problems with the main hero. Because I have a list. Oh, yes, I do!



Wanna hear more of my complaints? Of course you do. Ok, then, here we go.

At first, it was pretty nice. Sort of controlling male who likes to feast on the heroine's nether regions early in the morning, who speaks like he got possessed by Shakespeare's spirit, and knows how to be a beast in bed and speaks in Italian at random moments. Who doesn't like that, right? At least, what we saw of Madden at first. Because after Layla was secured in his mansion, our dear Santucci heir shows another side of him - one that disgusted me and yet surprisingly turned Layla, such a wonderful and seemingly reasonable woman, on!

Sort of controlling? Ha! As if! He turns into uber-controll mode just like that - I think the only thing he forgot to direct, was WHEN Layla was allowed to breathe! Master Madden suddenly was the one deciding everything for Layla, and while one would expect her to put up a better fight, the woman did the opposite and submitted way too easily!

Then, we have his obvious anger - I mean, he was growling, it doesn't get more obvious than that - when his little brother showed interest in Layla at the family dinner. All is well with that, or, well, it would be, if the disgusting creep hadn't shared a couple of times his mate with his best friend before said dinner! I. Hate. Menage! WITH A FLAMING PASSION! Never mind the fact Layla let him do that, what man in his right mind shares his lover with his best friend?! What's the point of mates if it's a bond for more than the two of them?! And why getting pissed off at your brother for staring when there is another guy at the other side of your woman that has your permission to touch her freely?! (speaking of Anton, who I ended up hating merely because of the part he played in this fucked up relationship, there were two parts, concerning candles and drawing a bath for Layla, that were pretty much identical - he even thought the same things when looking at her!)



I'm not going on with the list, it will be too much of a spoiler. But, yeah, you get the point.

I guess it was my fault. I should have checked the genres carefully, but I got hooked with the blurb - which says nothing of Anton, by the way, and that's a major mistake seeing how important he came out to be - and then started obsessing over the rest of the series. By the time Anton entered that damn bedroom, my warning bells were dancing the tango! And when Madden got that mental click and the whole Tre Adoro theory started, it was too late to stop it. I had to finish it, at least to see the important details needed to go on with the other sisters.

Let's hope the other Sinster women are not that foolish. Not that Layla seemed stupid at first. She was sensible, and reluctant, and I liked that - the fact she wanted a book-worthy romance, that she refused to compromise in the blink of an eye. And while she lusted after Madden, we could see it was mainly because of her soul sin, which was nice, it showed her morals and how she fought to keep her personal control. Too bad that idiot broke her mind or something (could it be he accidentally slammed her head on a wall or whatever and I missed it?)...

At least there is no more menage - I should know, I double-checked! And I can't wait to get to Eloise's story and leave the tragedy that was the first book behind me!

***I was given a free copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***

Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
Profile Image for Hayzbaw.
280 reviews
September 3, 2020
Couldn't really get into this book, it wasn't bad, but it also was very fast moving or engaging
Profile Image for Cathy .
17 reviews1 follower
September 12, 2013
This concept is a lot different from the other books I have read in the paranormal romance. I would have liked more of a story line to the book, it was to short and to much bed room romance than learning more about the characters and what challenges they had to face before the formal matting. Also I found it hard to follow who's what and what powers they all have,Other than that if you would like a sexy bed room book then this book beats most and you wont be disappointed.
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