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Auctioned Surrender

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Damian and Bryanna

As one of the wealthiest bodyguard’s and mafia connected men in the world, my assignment shouldn’t be difficult.

Get in and find the woman who’s fallen prey to a deadly global trafficking ring and return her to the family. Protect her at all costs.

Those were the orders, and I’ve never let a client down.

The innocent beauty’s eyes swirl with emotion as she looks at me, full of caution, wariness, fear, curiosity and need, all in a hazy mixture of lust that makes this more than a job.

But Bryanna has secrets of her own. She fights my help every step of the way, fleeing right out of my arms and back to those who want to sell her for a price.

The hold they have over Bryanna is not strong enough to keep me at bay. I will move heaven and earth to win her trust and to make her mine.

They’ve messed with the most ruthless of protectors in this deadly game of sin, and they will learn that the hard way today.

Because tonight, Bryanna will be mine.


Dereck and Layla

When asked to help with an assignment, the last thing I expect is to meet an exquisite woman full of attitude who ignites my soul like she was made just for me.

Layla Contreras can hold her own in the dangerous criminal underworld. A fiery exotic dancer who is strong-willed, sassy, and determined.

In a swift twist of fate, danger ignites.

I will do what it takes to keep Layla safe, even calling upon mafia alliances who are more than happy to go up against our mutual enemies.

But this is far from a job now…

Layla thinks her secrets will keep me away, but she couldn’t be more wrong. I plan to earn her trust, to bring that wall completely down, and tame the bravehearted fire within.

I will bury the sins of the past and anyone who gets in the way of me claiming the relentless beauty all for my very own.

Watch me…

Auctioned Submission is the bundled collection of Auctioned and Relentless, the second in a sinfully delicious duet by International Best-Selling Author Via Mari. You will fall in love with these two fearless women who become the best of friends and capture the hearts of the men who will do anything to protect them, even from themselves.

You will love these novels where the passion is fiery, the loyalty is fierce, and the stakes are high. Each story and couple have a guaranteed happily ever after.

421 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 15, 2023

6 people are currently reading
31 people want to read

About the author

Via Mari

52 books496 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
Profile Image for Charlene Roslyn.
75 reviews5 followers
February 7, 2024
Via Mari certainly knows how to write a page turner!! This is book 3&4 of the sinful duets series and OMG there is some hot action here.

Auctioned is the story of Bryanna and Damian. Bryanna is drugged and blackmailed into thinking that the bad people will hurt her family especially her niece and nephew and she will do anything to protect them. Including allow herself to be treated like shit, forced to strip and be auctioned as the virgin that she is to the highest bidder.

Damian has been assigned to find and protect Bryanna. Bryanna does not make it easy for him as once he finds her and gets her safe she keeps escaping and returning to her kidnappers to protect her family.

Eventually though Damian gets through to her and love wins ❤️.

I suspect another spin off novel to come involving Bryanna’s brother and also a few of the other characters ❤️

Relentless is the story of Layla and Derek. This is a spin off involving characters in roles within auctioned. Layla has tried to keep Bryanna safe and protected and in doing so gets herself the protection of Derek who sought her out for information. She has secrets of her own and I also suspect that they will come into play in another book at some stage? These men love to protect the women that they love ❤️

This could be considered a stand alone novel but once again it ties into the previous book characters in not only this series but also prior series. I suggest if you want to be hooked on a long running series - start at the beginning and I will be retrospectively reading to catch myself up!!
Profile Image for Jenni.
6,411 reviews79 followers
December 15, 2023
Auctioned Surrender is the second duet in the Sinful Duets books and is the bundled collection of Auctioned and Relentless
Auctioned is the third book in the Billionaire Bodyguards series and Dark Billionaire Mafia Romance by one of my favourite authors Via Mari. I love this crossover series and absolutely love the alpha hot and sexy men that go above and beyond to protect. The love and they love hard. They are sexy and charming, witty, and smouldering, dangerous and deadly. Via gives us lots of explosive action and deadly suspense, danger, and secrets.

As a member of an elite security team, Damian is on a mission to find a kidnapped woman for his bosses. What he doesn’t expect is what this woman makes him feel.

With protective instincts and great chemistry this is one hot and steamy read.

Relentless: Dark Billionaire Mafia Romance is the fourth book - in the Billionaire Bodyguards series by one of my fav authors Via Mari. This is a contemporary romance with an edge that is intense and full of suspense and mystery. Via’s stories are always unpredictable and very well written with fantastic characters. She always keeps you on the edge and reveals things that you never see coming. There is sizzling chemistry that is hot sexy with a touch of dominance and submission from these elite security team of alpha men. Add in lots of danger, attitude and sass, a sex trafficking ring and you will be riveted, and engrossed and will keep the pages turning to see what happens.

Layla will do whatever it takes to get her sister back with her and make sure she is safe. Dereck tries to keep the spitfire out of trouble but even this could be too much for him.
Profile Image for Ashley Sugar.
251 reviews9 followers
January 12, 2024
Okay sexy AND dangerous men? Sign. Me. Up. I loved the authors other work but I loved this one even more! Author is quickly becoming one of my favorites. If you want a great read, please read this series! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Onto the next one!
Profile Image for Shannon Godwin.
3,023 reviews32 followers
December 15, 2023
A great set here. I love the way this author put two short stories together to make this work. I was very into both book. Wish more authors would consider this with short stories. Well worth reading.
Profile Image for Heidi Sturgess.
1,119 reviews20 followers
February 21, 2024
I’m still in love with these covers they’re simply beautiful and that match the content within ❣️📚

In this edition we get spoilt with Auctioned which is the story of Damian and Bryanna and Relentless which follows the lives of Derick and Layla 🥰

AUCTIONED

Damian is part of an elite team of bodyguards that protect billionaires and when the niece of one of these prominent families goes missing it’s Damian that is sent to rescue her from a human trafficking ring !

It seems like it’s a cut case , go in , grab the girl and get out bit this delectable speciMAN is about get more than her bargained … he’s trying to rescue someone who doesn’t want to be rescued but unknown to him the enemy has a bargain chip to hold over Bryanna so don’t get to frustrated with her …..


Don’t read Bryanna wrong she comes forth as a bit of a damsel but she’s strong and fiercely protective of her loved ones and yes like me she has a weakness when it comes to Damian 😱🔥

Also if I was Bryanna I wouldn’t fight Damian for just let him have his way 🤣 he’s an alpha and know what he wants and despite his frustration he’s still patient in the teaching of “ his ways”🥰🔥

I liked that I got different perspectives from different characters it feel like you have a better idea of the characters and what makes them who they are , they climbed into my dark heart 😉


RELENTLESS


These books are like aging red wine , each one gets better with time 😉


This time round I got uk spend time with Layla and Derick and let me tell you what Layla is a force to be reckoned with 😉

So Derick is also part of the elite team that protects people but he’s responsible for 2 of the most powerful mafia kings in the world 😱 and they ask him to look after Layla and boy does he have his full she’s full is sass , she’s feisty and fearless and he has to call in all sorts of favours to keep her safe.

I know the word word Maui’s scares people and yes sone of them are bad but there are those that have hard nos’s when it comes to trafficking so you guys are my heroes ! Anyhoo Layla is a woman on a mission she needs to find and save her sister and friend before it’s too late and I get why she’s kitting about who she can trust but Dereck is on her side and gosh it takes her a while to realise but when she dies they’re a formidable team 🔥


My kindle was a n fire , blood pressure sky high and I broke out into a sweat on more than occasion !
This was a read with with drama ,suspense ,angst , tension , spicy steamy romance ,tension , action and so much more !

Fair warning if you’re a sensitive reader rather avoid this series but if you like reading on the dark side …. Welcome you out world !
Profile Image for Angela Shirley.
937 reviews6 followers
December 16, 2023
This is the second book in the in the Sinful Duets series and is split into two books, Auctioned and Relentless .

Auctioned - Book 3
When you have wanted that man to come into your life and you become his whole life, well I thought I could not have that until Damian walked into my life but will the situation cause me to lose him.

Bryanna is the niece of a rich socialite Jenny Torzial but when she becomes the embroiled with in a Sex Trafficking ring will she be lost forever or will her white knight come and save her from the gang and herself.

Damian is part of the elite group of Billionaire Bodyguards who's job normally takes on the mundane of the rich and famous but when he is enrolled to find Jenny's niece who has vanished can he keep his feels in check long enough to find her.

Omg I loved every word and was engulfed into this world hook, line and sinker. First off Damian has been added the ever growing list of book boyfriends and my god he can dominant me anytime he wants lol. The start of the story slows draws you into the world that Bryanna has been brought into and with the secondary characters this brings this world into the for front. As the theme revolves around the seedy world of sex trafficking it is written with sensitivity and humanity. I loved the strong, brave characters of Bryanna and her true spirit is shown within the story and with the Damian characters just add that bit of spice and sexual chemistry that sizzled underneath and when it finally exploded it was brilliant well scripted writing.

Relentless - Book 4
When you are caught in a world of total control and no way out, can a knight in tainted armour rescue her from this dark world?

Layla is an independent woman, she takes no crap but there is a secret which haunts her but can she survive in this world or will it all come crashing down around her.

Dereck is part of an elite security team but when he sees Layla he can not get her out of his head, but can they both forge ahead and because friends as well as lovers.

This story is full of drama and intrigue which the chemistry of these two characters jump off the page and with all the tension and underlining story makes this story fly off the page. These characters are well developed and full of passion and dark secrets which are brilliantly to read and discover. As this is in a series it would help to read the other books but this can be read as a independent story but to be fair who would not read this series.
315 reviews7 followers
January 11, 2024
Damian and Bryanna - Damian is a force to be reckoned with - a member of an elite team of bodyguards and with connections to mafia men. He is given an assignment to rescue a woman from a sex trafficking ring safely return her to her family. His capability is astounded and his reliability to complete his job is strong. However, Bryanna seems determined to fight him every step of the way - even fleeing Damian and returning to those who sold her into sex trafficking in the first place! Bryanna is keeping secrets of her own, is traumatized from her experiences, is very confused of who is good and who is bad...and is painfully attracted to Damian, who desires her like he has never desired someone this way before.

Lots of danger and drama, hot scenes and desires, and a fight for love...will Damian and Bryanna be able to come out the other side together?

Dereck and Layla
Dereck is a bodyguard involved in a sex trafficking case. Being involved in this case, he meets Layla.
Layla is a spicy and sassy exotic dancer who is virtually fearless and is capable of taking care of herself. She holds a secret close to her chest while on her mission. Without giving things away, there are many twists and turns in this book. They both have trouble trusting others. They both have secrets to protect. They both strive to protect others. In the midst of the sizzle from the chemistry, the danger from the traffickers Dereck is trying to bring down, the hunt Layla is on for the man who represents danger to her...will they be able to grow and open themselves to one another and see which explosive place their relationship may lead them? Will they continue to protect themselves and guard their secrets, or will they give each other the space to learn about one another and grow?

As with all previous Via Mari books I've read, these are such enjoyable reads. There's heat, but it doesn't overwhelm the story. There's danger and drama, but it amps up passions as much as it amps up their heartbeats. There's trauma, but it's presented in a straightforward way that isn't disrespectful of the indignities victims suffer. Each of the books I've read are fast paced and balances storylines nicely, without leaving things feeling undone. Prose is beautiful, descriptions are clear and easy to picture. The heat builds in each and the tension is palpable. As always, I'll continue to follow Mari!
Profile Image for Anya Davies-schultz.
212 reviews3 followers
January 12, 2024
Auctioned Surrender is a duet that follows the similar story of her previous Sinful Duets. In the first book, Auctioned, it is the story of Damian and Bryanna. Damian is private security for very wealthy people looking for these individual’s niece. She was thought to be picked up for trafficking. Damian does end up finding her at a bar where Bryanna has become a stripper, but we quickly learn she is to be auctioned off due to her virginity. Throughout the story, Damian is attracted to her and that just grows when he end up capturing her himself to save her. She keeps trying to run away to save her family not realizing Damian can help. Will he be able to get her to understand in time that she doesn’t need to do this alone? Will the security company finally figure out who is behind all the trafficking?
In the second book, Relentless, it is more of the same. Only this time, Dereck, who also works for the security company, is trying to get information from Layla, Bryanna’s friend. Layla also strips for the bar and Dereck believes she is the way to understanding the trafficking ring. The story starts with info already known from the last book, but now we get the details of the behind-the-scenes. In addition, Layla is on her own mission to find out who killed her cousin and took her sister. She believes it could be the trafficking ring. Dereck vows to protect her because he is very attracted to her, but he doesn’t realize that this sassy lady has a lot of secrets that can’t be disclosed. However, they start to work together and have a relationship to get her sister back. Will she become the submissive he is looking for or will her sass get her hurt?
I always love a great mafia romance, but this is the second of the duets I have read and I am starting to feel it is more of the same. It is a continuous addition to the original story but with different leading men from the security team. I have no issue with these men or women characters, I always love a strong, protective, but gentle type, however, I just feel it is more of the same. All the men that work here apparently love the dominant/submissive BDSM lifestyle and all the girls are pretty much craving the submissive aspect too. Overall, the story and characters themselves were fine and a quick read (well each book is a quick read, but long as a duet). However, I am just a little tired of the same storyline and dynamic.
Profile Image for Cindy.
850 reviews13 followers
December 15, 2023
*****

Book 1
This is Bryanna and Damian's story. While Bryanna is strong and independent she finds herself in trouble. She will try to save herself while protecting her niece, nephew and mother. But we all know things can not be right when a young girl is kidnapped. Damian is a bodyguard who is assigned to find Bryanna and get her back. So if I tell you anymore, it will not let you read what I just read.
This author has done it again. You are about to read this extremely intense romance. It will be one you won't soon forget. I love the characters and their strength. This fast paced romance leaves nothing out. You will have suspense, romance, and a crime ring that needs to be stopped. Be prepared to have your emotions played with. I cried, got mad and cheered for the hero's in this story. Please start on book 1. Get to know the rest of the bodyguards. This is a MUST READ SERIES. Well Done!
Book 2
Get ready to read this unbelievable romance. Full length and for those over 18 years of age due to violence and adult content. I recommend you read the other books in this series, to get to know the characters. As well as the strong women.
Layla Contreras has seen enough, her goal is to find her sister and friend who have been kidnapped. She will stop at nothing and go through anybody to find and rescue her sister. But she wants to help out all the girls kidnapped and sold to the highest bidder. Not even Derek and the security team can stop her. She has secrets and the security team could spill them, who can she trust? Will Derek stop her and convince her he is trying to help? Get her to accept his help, and put a stop to the traffickers?
Another series well. This series has many twists and turns. But the romance is swoon worthy. The characters are hot, hot, hot. But the women are strong willed and independent. I loved this story as well as the storyline. I turned page after page and could not put the book down. I will be looking for the 5th book in this series. No Spoilers in this review, although??? Well Done Via Mari! Well Done!
Profile Image for Evelyn Dotson.
2,066 reviews17 followers
December 19, 2023
Via has once again offered some of her bodyguards in a duet together! Hot men in dangerous situations falling in love in impossible situations and lives that will get them killed or maimed. They will go the extra lengths to keep everyone they love and care about safe! Grab this duet in one to continue to read Via’s Mafia world!

Auctioned
Damian is a bodyguard and has been hired by Jenny Torzial and Brian Carrington to find her niece, Bryanna. He finds her but everything is not as it seems. Bryanna is working at a strip joint for some very dangerous people. She is doing it to protect her family. Damian rescues her after being drugged, but she escapes. Damian is enthralled with her and wants her. Bryanna is to be auctioned to someone and if she does not co-operate, they will go after her family. Now, Damian will have to call on his experience, bring in others, and the big guns to save not only Bryanna but to bring down another part of a trafficking ring! Will it cost them their lives? Will Damian and Bryanna be together? Another thrilling, hot steamy romance from Via Mari!

Relentless
In the fourth book of the Bodyguards by Via Mari, it is Dereck’s and Layla’s story now. Dereck is one of the security guards put on Bryanna’s case. He manages to see her and her friend Layla and wants to keep her safe and for himself. As with Bryanna, everything is not as it seems~ Only Layla has even bigger secrets than Bryanna. She, too, is out to find and protect a family member taken for trafficking~ Another family member was killed in the process as well. Layla has had to do things she normally would never do and will continue to do so until her sister is back with her and safe. Only, Dereck refuses to let this occur! When they finally do come together, Layla’s resistance weakens, and she will finally receive the help she has needed all along whether she agrees or not. What will happen? Who dies and stays alive? This time, Via has given us a shock factor toward the end~ Well played Via~ This is Via’s steamiest story to date!
Profile Image for Marissa.
401 reviews5 followers
January 11, 2024
Another crazy hot duet from this author. I am a sucker for a dark mafia romance. This gives me two for one. There are twists, so much drama, some steamy steam, and lots of brave men and women fighting the blight of human trafficking.

This story picks up where we left the last duet. The agency’s men are on a rescue mission to find and return Jenny’s niece, Bryanna. Damian feels an unusual pull to protect this green eyed beauty. He can’t fight it. Damian’s protector drives kick into high gear whenever he is near her. Bryanna is in serious danger but fights Damian at every turn, even running back to the people that took her.

Damian figures out part of the truth that keeps Bryanna running back. When he is able to tell her that he is protecting those most important to her, Bryanna stops running long enough to help Damian get the bad guys that took her from her family.

Bryanna was able to find one person during her ordeal that protected her and helped her, Layla. When Layla exchanges information to help Bryanna, she puts herself in peril. Dereck, Damian’s teammate, steps up to protect Layla from the trouble they caused her by using her to help Bryanna. Dereck learns fast that there is more to Layla than meets the eye.

Dereck and Layla can each feel the magnetic pull towards each other. Dereck thinks it is because he can feel Layla’s latent submissive side whenever they are together but it just makes Layla fight and pull against Dereck even more. Dereck continues to earn Layla’s trust by showing up whenever she puts herself into more and more dangerous situations trying to solve a mystery.

The teams come together to help figure out who is behind the trafficking ring and prevent new “shipments” from leaving. It is never as easy as they plan and face new difficulties even as they bring several key players in the rings down. Fantastic stories!!! I hope that there are truly people out there fighting the bad guys that ‘gather’ for traffickers and the sickos that are the reasons for them.
Profile Image for Kerry  carr.
1,952 reviews25 followers
December 15, 2023
This is book 2 in the Sinful Duet series. This book contains 2 stories Auctioned and Relentless.

Auctioned
I enjoyed this book. It is the 3rd book in the Billionaire Bodyguards series. Even though the characters are linked in previous books  but they are so well written that they can be read as a standalone. The characters are well evolved that you feel like you are living in their lives. This story contains everything i love danger, steamy romance and an attraction that should not be.



Bryanna has been caught in a trafficking ring. The captors have someone on her that means she can't leave them. Even when she is rescued by Damian.

Damian  has been sent to rescue her my his employer Jenny. He knows it's going to be a challenge but what he doesn't know and realise is that the attraction between him and his assignment would be so strong.
Can Damian save Bryanna from the captors? Will Bryanna trust him enough to allow herself to be rescued? Can the attraction between them become something more or is this just got to be strictly business?

Relentless
This is the fourth book in the Billionaire Bodyguards series and these stories keep getting better and better. It is full of romance and suspense, as well as danger.

Dereck is a member of the elite security team. When he is sent to question a women with regards to the person they are looking to rescue, he didn't expect the sparks to fly.

Layla works as an exotic dancer and also has the inside knowledge of the trafficking ring Dereck and his team are trying to stop. Layla  is fiesty  and needs no man in shining armour to rescue her until she meets Dereck.

The connection is instant and Dereck awakens something inside of her that she forgot existed. But with her own past and secrets can they work through them and be together? With vengence in Layla's mind will she be able to trust Dereck enough to help or is this relationship doomed from the start?
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
5,003 reviews63 followers
December 18, 2023
Damien and Bryanna
I loved this book. I have read all of this author’s books, this one is one of my favorites yet. One of the things I love most about this author is her ability to pull me into the story from the beginning. Her characters are relatable and make the story feel realistic. This story is no different. It is a well written story which has attention to details that kept me not only engaged but turning pages fast to the end. This is Damian and Bryanna’s story. Their story is one full of action, steamy romance and a fight for life. I loved their chemistry and watching them grow throughout the story. Damian is assigned a new case to find Bryanna who has managed to get caught in trafficking. But as he will soon find out this is not a simple or easy case. Will he be able to save her from her fear or will the desire they have be enough to save her? This is truly a great story that I highly recommend reading. This story has a little bit of everything that you don’t want to miss.

Dereck and Layla
I loved this book. This is an author that I have loved and read every book by her and they just keep getting better and better. This one is no different. It is the fourth book in this series which I highly suggest reading the previous books before this one to help your enjoyment of this series. This is a well written story that pulled me in right from the beginning. This is a fast paced story that is engaging and kept me turning pages to the end. In this book we get to see Dereck’s story. He is assigned a task of one of the men he is bodyguard for. What he gets himself into is trafficking which is where he meets Layla. Now he is faced with losing his heart to her and they both find themselves in a situation that could be deadly. I loved these characters and what they bring to the story. Their growth in the story makes it feel realistic. They made the story entertaining to read and I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Katie.
2,260 reviews15 followers
December 15, 2023
This duet contains two absolutely amazing reads. The author’s writing is so captivating you can’t help but carry on reading long after you really want to stop. The duet contains Auctioned and Relentless.


Auctioned


It’s been a long time since I struggled to review a book, I sat here for ages trying to think of the words to do this story justice and I really cannot find them. Auctioned is hands down my favourite read of 2021! I already knew I would love it because I love this author but I was completely hooked from beginning to end – I almost wish I hadn’t read it because I would love to go back and read it again for the very first time. I 100% adored and loved Damian – he was everything I wanted from his character and more. The chemistry between him and Bryanna was off the charts! I loved reading about them and wanted more after the story had ended! There was so much to this story that I was so invested in it and the characters. A truly beautiful read.
I cannot recommend this book and the series enough – they are all amazing reads and I just completely adore this author and her amazing writing!


Relentless

This was a phenomenal read! I adore this author and think I’ve given 5 stars to all of her books but this one was just amazing. I was hooked from beginning to end and I actually cannot wait to re-read it again and that is something I rarely do! I just loved Dereck and Layla, their story was just so exciting to read so many twists and turns I literally couldn’t put it down, I needed to find out what was going to happen next on the turn of almost every page. They had such a great chemistry too, that definitely made for good reading! I can’t wait to read more from this author again! I love her book so much!
Profile Image for Jules Herbert.
620 reviews12 followers
December 16, 2023
This is an absolutely fantastic duet that you simply won't be able to put down!!
Auctioned:
The leading lady of this story , Bryanna, is dragged into a dangerous and volatile situation in order to protect her family who she cares very deeply about. Along comes seriously dominant and deadly gorgeous Damian to find and rescue her. This is so not in her plans when she has her family to protect. Immediately Damian is not only wanting to protect Bryanna for the sake of his job but also because of his instant attraction to her. Bryannas very obvious submissive side calls to her brave protector.

I think the fact that there were times when I wanted to bop the main characters Damian and Bryanna up side the head for not just talking to each other, shows how creatively the wonderful Author Via Mari formed her characters to make us care about them. They have heart and depth that just makes you want to keep reading. The book presents both characters sides of the story all the way through giving us much better insight into the various situations that come along.

Relentless:
Relentless Brings us the story of Layla, a very strong willed determined woman, hiding a genuine soft tender side, who is looking for her sister and the man who killed her cousin. Along comes the Super hot, determined and VERY dominant Dereck. He wants to protect her and be with her but knows she is hiding things from him. Lies is one thing he does not tolerate but at the same time he knows trust must be earnt, he just hopes he can earn her trust before its too late.

Do yourself a huge favour and grab a copy of this book today!! You wont be disappointed
580 reviews10 followers
January 7, 2024
Another set of books by this author that didn’t disappoint! The Sinful Duets books suck you in and your hook. Auctioned Surrender is made up of Books Auctioned and Relentless. I read the first duet in this series and just like that one these books overlap. Stories being told simultaneously while also being connected to one another.
Auctioned is Damian and Bryanna’s story. Damian’s been tasked to track down a client’s kidnapped niece. And when he finds her he realizes there’s a bigger war at hand. Which leads them both to battle sex trafficking in New Orleans. Which will Keep Bryanna’s family safe.
Can Damian stay professional?
Can Bryanna actually keep her family safe?
Well those questions and so many more come to mind while reading the first book in the duet. More so once you start book 2.
Relentless finds the reader following Layla and Dereck’s story. Dereck was asked a favor to help protect Bryanna. He wasn’t expecting Layla to get under his skin. Layla is hesitant and worried, Dereck is a little too close for comfort and he could ruin everything. At the same time she would like to do everything she can to help her friend!
In regard to Layla, how deep is too deep?
Can Dereck hold his attraction to Layla as bay, while they end up battling sex trafficking at home in Chicago?
You can’t read one without the other. You’ll be missing so much. Which could leave confusion. I know each book's main focus is a different set of characters but the way this is written the chara are so intertwined that you can’t read one without the other.
Despite the heavy topics it’s definitely worth the read. So what are you waiting for time to go check it out!
Profile Image for Angela.
8,536 reviews122 followers
December 17, 2023
5 Stars

Auctioned Surrender is the second instalment in the Sinful Duets collection by Via Mari. This is a fantastic romantic suspense that’s full of danger, sex trafficking, secrets, hidden agendas, action, mystery, a whole lot of sizzle, intrigue, and so much more.
Via Mari is known for her superb romantic suspense stories and this book showcases her talents beautifully. She easily builds gripping suspense, intrigue, palpable tension, and sizzling chemistry- while balancing it all with lighter moments and believable emotion.
Auctioned:
Damian has been hired to find the missing niece of Jenny Torzial, whom we first met in the ‘Prestian’ series as secondary character, and then in her own series ‘The Torzial Affair’. Bryanna has found herself in quite the predicament, caught up in a sex trafficking ring. Damian will stop at nothing to find her and return her safely. But Damian soon discovers that it’s not going to be a routine rescue assignment- and he might lose more than his heart in the process.
Relentless:
Dereck is part of an elite security team who is given a new assignment that will turn his world upside down and test him like never before. Layla has some pretty big secrets that she needs to keep from being exposed. Things are about to heat up as these two are thrown together- then add in a trafficking ring, plenty of sizzle, danger, action, tension, and high stakes – and their story takes an intense turn.

Another unputdownable read from this talented author!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Via Mari!
Profile Image for Shannon.
848 reviews5 followers
December 15, 2023
Thank you Via Mari for continuing to write such great stories!

The first part of this duet is about Damian and Bryanna who are sexy, sweet, determined, and delicious!

This story continues from books 1 and 2 and it is helpful to read in order. I liked how these characters are the main focus with a little help from their friends. Bryanna is tough and protective and soon learns that Damien is the same way, maybe even more so.

Mari’s writings continue to be an escape from the real world although human trafficking is becoming all too familiar in the real world, this story has a happier ending than real life, making it a great read.

The next part is Relentless, meaning never giving up. Layla is relentless in looking for her sister. Dereck is relentless in helping and protecting Layla. Even the bad guys are relentless in their human trafficking pursuits.

I enjoyed the banter between Layla and Dereck through-out the entire book. And I really like how Layla is such a tough woman. She can protect herself, find her sister and still love the man. Mari has created believable characters and a real-life world that is worth reading about.

While Relentless is not my favorite of Mari’s stories, it is still 4-star worthy. This story can be read as a stand alone since the previous characters are only slightly mentioned. But the Billionaire Bodyguard series is worth the read.
Profile Image for Katie Turner.
125 reviews6 followers
December 17, 2023
Auctioned Surrender by Via Mari is the second book to the Sinful Duets series and is a
combined book hosting both Auctioned and Relentless.

Auctioned is centered around Bryanna, Jenny Torzial's young niece and Damian, a bodyguard who is on a mission to extract Bryanna safely from the clutches of sex trafficking world. But an even darker threat is lurking if Bryanna isn't extracted soon. There is an enormous amount of attraction between the two of them, but things are very complicated. Damien clearly wants her, but she feels compelled to protect her family.

I loved the characters in this story. The world Bryanna lives in is terrifying, but the author did such a beautiful job with keeping everything realistic, yet sensitive.

Relentless follows the story of Dereck and Layla. Dereck is an undercover bodyguard
who is put on an assignment that requires him to seek information from Layla. When he accidentally puts her into a potentially dangerous situation, it becomes his mission to help keep her safe. It doesn't take long before Dereck is completely enamored by this beautiful woman and while he ultimately wants to protect her, he has a lot of desires to dominate this beauty.

If you enjoy lots of suspense, steamy dom/sub romance with fantastic characters, I definitely recommend! I suggest you start from the beginning. While you could technically read these as standalones, the stories to tie in with many repeat characters.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
December 15, 2023
This book had two stories in one which was absolutely great since I fell in love with these characters immediately.

Auctioned:
Bryanna has been caught up in a sex trafficking ring, and Damian has been hired to rescue her, however, she's not about to make that very easy. See, the traffickers have been blackmailing her with her family, and she would rather suffer terrible things than anything happening to them so Damian has his hands full just for that reason. On top of that, you add in the connection these two feel from the jump, well things really get more complicated as the sparks are flying like crazy. Can he rescue her before she ends up gone for good?!

Relentless:
Dereck is part of the security team that Daiman works with, so as he's helping to rescue Bryanna, he comes across Layla, and the attraction is instant. Layla is a spitfire who knows quite a few things about the ring doing these terrible things, but you already know she's not about to just trust anyone since it could mean her life so Dereck has his work cut out for him.

Both of these stories have serious suspense in them with the twists coming in hot, not to mention some action to get the heart racing as well with a big heat filled kicker so it was super easy for me to devour them both in one sitting. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
3,093 reviews34 followers
December 19, 2023
Auctioned: Dark Billionaire Mafia Romance by Via Mari is the third book in the Billionaire Bodyguards series. This is yet another amazing book that I have read by this author. It is such a strong addition to the series. I loved the characters in this book. They had such a strong chemistry together and their connection felt relatable. I found myself wanting to read more about them. The story itself has been really well written. I was hooked right from the start and I just had to know how it was all going to then out. This book really does has a bit of everything you could want to make it fantastic. This is a brilliant series and one that I cannot recommend highly enough.
Relentless: Dark Billionaire Mafia Romance by Via Mari is the fourth book in the Billionaire Bodyguard series. This is an amazing book - and series - from an author who has easily become one of my must reads. This is yet another book that I was hooked on from the start. It is and exciting story that is fast paced and intense. I loved Layla and Dereck and the fight they had to make things work. Their connection felt so real.
I would recommend reading this series in order so you can experience it as it was intended, and each book is definitely worth it. This is an absolutely fantastic addition to the series and I am already looking forward to whatever comes next.
Profile Image for Jennifer .
1,637 reviews34 followers
January 11, 2024
Having enjoyed the previous book in this series I was looking forward to this second novel which is two stories in one, great for binge reading! First is Damian and Bryanna’s story, not only is he connected with the mafia he’s also a wealthy bodyguard. His assignment should have been easy, find Bryanna who had been kidnapped by a global trafficking ring and take her home to her family, but Bryanna has offer plans. Bryanna has secrets and the trafficking ring have a hold over her which makes her fight Damian and even escape from him. However, as soon as he saw Bryanna, he knew she was going to be his and he will do anything to protect her.
Dereck and Layla also meet whilst he’s on an assignment, she’s an exotic dancer who has links to the criminal underworld. When Layla is in danger, Dereck calls upon his mafia alliances to help keep her safe, as all it took was one look and she was going to be his. I was captivated by these two dark romantic suspense stories, and although the storylines have me on the edge of my seat, I like knowing that the couple will get a HEA. The chemistry between both couples is fiery and I love how their relationships develop throughout the story. An enjoyable and engaging duet and I look forward to book 3.
Profile Image for Beejai Bohls.
322 reviews8 followers
December 19, 2023
This was an amazing book. I couldn't sleep until I finished it. It was a quick read because I became so involved in what was going on. There is so much in this book that I am having a difficult time trying to say why y'all should read it without giving anything away. You will get so emotionally involved in this duet that you will find yourself talking out loud to the characters and wanting to smack them at the same time. I always think that if you can get emotionally attached to the characters, that is how you know the book is written really well. The suspense in the stories if this duet is amazing. You will be on the edge of your seat waiting with bated breath to see what happens. You will also be blushing at the steam and romance of this story. The only exclaimer I can suggest is to be aware of your surroundings while reading this duet. I say that because I. did walkout loud and groan while reading this and my kids looked at me funny. I found myself having to walk around or to just stand up because of what was happening in this duet. This is an incredible duet that had me physically reacting to what was going on. You will not be disappointed when reading this.
Profile Image for Tara Johnson.
745 reviews13 followers
January 13, 2024
Auctioned Surrender is the Second Book in the Sinful Duets Series. The duet in this book includes Auctioned and Relentless. It is a romantic suspense with mystery, danger, drama, intrigue, action, secrets, lies, chemistry, and passion. The first story is about Bryanna and Damian. Bryanna is the niece of a wealthy socialite who has been drawn into the seedy world of sex trafficking. She is brave, strong, smart, and feisty. Damian is a member of the Billionaire Bodyguards and has been hired to find Bryanna. He is strong, brave, sexy, and determined to save Bryanna at all costs. The two have an undeniable attraction and explosive chemistry. The second story is about Layla, an exotic dancer, and Dereck, an elite bodyguard. Dereck is trying to find out information about the sex trafficking ring from Layla, and she is trying to find out who killed her cousin and took her sister. Dereck vows to keep Layla safe at all costs but Layla has some closely guarded secrets that she cannot disclose. The attraction and chemistry between them are sizzling and undeniable. Great stories with strong, sassy, loving, and protective, characters.
Profile Image for Char Davis.
583 reviews8 followers
January 17, 2024
This suspense filled story will have you on the edge of your seats and the characters will captivate you. This is a dark story of an innocent young woman that has been abducted and made work at as trip club in a really skinny area.The only thing keeping her safe from talent any of her captures is the fact she's a virgin. They plan on auctioning her off to the highest bidder.Damian is part of an elite security team his friend a very wealthy man has Asian and his team to find Bryanna an bring her safely home.Damian is a Dom.in his personal life and since he saw the picture of Bryanna he's having a hard time not to cross the line from professional to personal.She is absolutely gorgeous and a natural submissive .Will the time they spent together make him give into his desire to make her his?Will she fall in love with this dominant man?Will he fall for her?Will he be able to keep her safe when she keeps sneaking out going back to put herself indanger?There are so many twists and turns to this story you will be riveted til the very last page.I can hardly wait to see what's next by this multi talented author.
Profile Image for Felicia  Bates.
617 reviews7 followers
December 15, 2023
Auctioned: Every now and then I want to read a small town, rainbows and butterflies type romance novel but when I want to read a pulse racing, steamy story with substance, I seek out Via Mari. Auctioned was captivating from the start. Much like I've come to expect from a Via Mari novel, the storyline is just intense enough to grab your attention (and keep it) without losing you in all the moving parts.
I love the complexity of the characters first and foremost but put Damien and Bryanna together and the chemistry is unmatched!

Relentless: I have read many of Via Mari's books and this author's writing never ceases to amaze me. I loved the characters in this book, especially Layla. She is fiesty, fiery, strong and independent. As I have come to expect, Via Mari took me for a ride from the first to last page. There is passion, intrigue and action throughout the storyline without being "over the top." I feel like each one of my reviews for Via Mari are so similar. She crafts great plots with strong sexy characters.
Profile Image for Anna Hirsch.
804 reviews14 followers
December 16, 2023
Auctioned Surrender (Sinful Duets Book 2) by Via Mari
4 Stars

This is a two for one. Auctioned Surrender is a book combined of Auctioned and Relentless. Each book focuses on two different couples.

Auctioned is the third book in the series. The author will pull you in wondering what will happen to Bryanna. She is a young and innocent virgin tricked and in trouble. Damian is an elite bodyguard hired to retrieve her. He expects to find someone sweet but finds instead a sexy submissive that calls to his dominant side. Their chemistry is off the charts and will set you on fire.

Relentless is a book that will catch your attention from the get go and keep you interested until the end. The story was filled with action and intrigue. Layla is strong, full of attitude and many secrets that she must keep hidden. Derek is an elite bodyguard assigned to watch her. He plans to earn her trust and find out her secrets. The dominant in him is screaming to protect her even from herself.

This duet is a great addition to the series. Definitely a must read!

Profile Image for Megan.
377 reviews
January 9, 2024
I cannot get enough of Via Mari's books. She is quickly becoming an automatic author for me. I absolutely loved the second installment of her Sinful Duets collection (remember…there are two books in here: Auctioned and Relentless) and I am eagerly awaiting the release of the third installment. As with the first collection, I could not put this collection down. Mari quickly entraps her readers and submerses them into the lives of her characters and she doesn't let you come up for air until it's all over. I love the dual POV that we get with each book...seeing the timeline from each main character's perspective is one of my favorite things. I also really enjoy how each of these books are tied together; however, they can be read as standalones. She gives you enough information and explanation without repeating the entire previous story but if you've read the previous stories you get to see the characters you've fallen in love with and what they're up to now. These books are *spicy*, suspenseful, angsty, emotional, and eventually happily ever after. Definitely a must read!
Profile Image for Heather Bass.
650 reviews9 followers
January 14, 2024
I have read a few books from this author and let me tell you I’m a huge fan. This is the second book to the very addictive sinful duets. I love a good romance story but getting two is amazing. I was able to put this book down until I finished with both couples. I could not help loving all the characters inside this book. I also love that she wrote both characters pov. I can’t wait to see who she writes about next.

Damian got an assignment that he thought should have been easy. All he has to do is get the girl back safe and sound. When he looks into Bryanna’s eyes he feels something he has never felt before. He needs to protect her at all costs. Damian will do anything to protect but will he be too late?

Dereck is put into a job to help his friends out. He is to guard the beautiful dancer Layla. Dereck was just going to make this the everyday job but Layla is something he craves. He loves her strong will and she is sassy. Dereck will do anything to keep her safe but will her secrets get them both into trouble they can’t get out of?
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