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Costa Crime Family #3
Hateful Promise
He prefers women in handcuffs, not cocktail dresses.
And I’m his new obsession.
When my father steals money from three powerful casino bosses, I’m taken captive by the worst of them Erick Costa, notorious gangster and vicious criminal with violent tastes and sickening delights.
But it turns out, he’s a big fan of my art, and he wants more than his money back.
He cuts me a deal. Create forged paintings for him to sell on the black market, and he’ll let me work off my father’s debt.
Except that’ll take forever, and in the meantime, I’m stuck at his pleasure.
Erick Costa’s big, gorgeous, reserved, and intelligent. I want to pretend like I’m not attracted to him, but the man isn’t shy about flaunting his stacked abs and tattoos.
Soon it becomes clear he needs more than my skills.
He wants all of me, every single inch, and he won’t stop until he gets it.
And when he finds the secret paintings I’ve been making of him?
He’ll know exactly how I feel, and he’ll never let me go.
And I’m his new obsession.
When my father steals money from three powerful casino bosses, I’m taken captive by the worst of them Erick Costa, notorious gangster and vicious criminal with violent tastes and sickening delights.
But it turns out, he’s a big fan of my art, and he wants more than his money back.
He cuts me a deal. Create forged paintings for him to sell on the black market, and he’ll let me work off my father’s debt.
Except that’ll take forever, and in the meantime, I’m stuck at his pleasure.
Erick Costa’s big, gorgeous, reserved, and intelligent. I want to pretend like I’m not attracted to him, but the man isn’t shy about flaunting his stacked abs and tattoos.
Soon it becomes clear he needs more than my skills.
He wants all of me, every single inch, and he won’t stop until he gets it.
And when he finds the secret paintings I’ve been making of him?
He’ll know exactly how I feel, and he’ll never let me go.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2023
999 people are currently reading
408 people want to read
About the author
B.B. Hamel
200 books2,516 followersI'm a long time reader, writer, and lover of Romance! Writing is my dream and my passion, and I want to share my stories with you.
I live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and two dogs.
Website: http://www.bbhamel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bbhamelwriter
Check out my mailing list for updates, giveaways, and more! http://bbhamel.com/signup
I live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and two dogs.
Website: http://www.bbhamel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bbhamelwriter
Check out my mailing list for updates, giveaways, and more! http://bbhamel.com/signup
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
did-not-finish
December 10, 2023DNF @ 50%
I just don't feel a connection with the MCs, and I was getting whiplash from Hellie's body-betraying syndrome. Also, the insta-lust or insta-love on Erick's side isn't working for me. I'm not sure why he's so infatuated with her, but I think that will be covered in the second half of the story.
And, when they did the deed, they went bare without having any STD talks. I skimmed the book, and I think Erick is a hoe or adjacent. So yeah, it made me feel icky, and the uneasiness lingers. 🤷♀️
There were also some typos and inconsistencies in POVs. One chapter was meant to be for Erick, but halfway through it, the POV shifts all of a sudden from him to Hellie, and that got me so confused.
If I'm feeling particularly interested, I might come back to this one of these days. So for now, it's a DNF.
I just don't feel a connection with the MCs, and I was getting whiplash from Hellie's body-betraying syndrome. Also, the insta-lust or insta-love on Erick's side isn't working for me. I'm not sure why he's so infatuated with her, but I think that will be covered in the second half of the story.
And, when they did the deed, they went bare without having any STD talks. I skimmed the book, and I think Erick is a hoe or adjacent. So yeah, it made me feel icky, and the uneasiness lingers. 🤷♀️
There were also some typos and inconsistencies in POVs. One chapter was meant to be for Erick, but halfway through it, the POV shifts all of a sudden from him to Hellie, and that got me so confused.
If I'm feeling particularly interested, I might come back to this one of these days. So for now, it's a DNF.
January 6, 2024
For me, this was the best of the Costa Family Series by BB Hamel.
I was very disappointed with the writing, typos and plain mistakes, - Not what I had found with this author before.
At least if wasn't a fake marriage - what the heck is with that troupe really, it's the 2000's it acceptable to be in a relationship without marriage, and make it appeal amicable.
Disappointing lack of sexual care and use of protection! Plus the whole fake art thing took a bit of believing.
I was very disappointed with the writing, typos and plain mistakes, - Not what I had found with this author before.
At least if wasn't a fake marriage - what the heck is with that troupe really, it's the 2000's it acceptable to be in a relationship without marriage, and make it appeal amicable.
Disappointing lack of sexual care and use of protection! Plus the whole fake art thing took a bit of believing.
January 4, 2024
One moment Heloise "Hellie" is closing up work the next she is kidnapped and int he home of Erick Costa, a powerful mafia boss. Hellie has no clue why she is taken until she is informed that she must paint forgeries of lost paintings in order to repay the money her father stole from three syndicates. Hellie wants to run, she tries to run but there is no way to go. She has five days to paint and create what is to be a match for a famous painting.
Erick wants Hellie, he does not like pushing her and if it was just him he would give her the time she needs to complete the painting, but two other blood thirsty heads want results. While Hellie is doing her job, Erick is trying to find her father who could clean up the whole mess by given himself in. Erick becomes more infatuated with Hellie and it is only a matter of time before they both give into their feelings but what happens when the trust they are building is tested?
Story was filled with detail about the paintings Hellie was recreating. Erick was domineering and yet a bit aloof. He is demanding but at the same time so in tuned with Hellie's needs that there is a sweet side to him. Will check out the rest of the books in this series, hope there is one for Ren.
Erick wants Hellie, he does not like pushing her and if it was just him he would give her the time she needs to complete the painting, but two other blood thirsty heads want results. While Hellie is doing her job, Erick is trying to find her father who could clean up the whole mess by given himself in. Erick becomes more infatuated with Hellie and it is only a matter of time before they both give into their feelings but what happens when the trust they are building is tested?
Story was filled with detail about the paintings Hellie was recreating. Erick was domineering and yet a bit aloof. He is demanding but at the same time so in tuned with Hellie's needs that there is a sweet side to him. Will check out the rest of the books in this series, hope there is one for Ren.
January 22, 2024
Masih Mafia in the background doang.. lebih ke kasino dan dunia perjudian masih...
Temanya bpknya si mbak nyolong uang dari casinonya Erik + 2 pemilik kasino yg laen, trs diculik sama Erik suruh memalsukan lukisan2 langka (kr Hallie ini pelukis) dan dijual di pasar gelap..
ya biasa lama-lama suka... settingnya di Vegas kali ini ^^
Temanya bpknya si mbak nyolong uang dari casinonya Erik + 2 pemilik kasino yg laen, trs diculik sama Erik suruh memalsukan lukisan2 langka (kr Hallie ini pelukis) dan dijual di pasar gelap..
ya biasa lama-lama suka... settingnya di Vegas kali ini ^^
February 15, 2024
Is the timeframe 1980 or 2023?
DNF. Normally this author’s stories are believable and done well. This book began as something out of the time period of the Godfather, not 2023.
Their plan to murder Danny Arcadia’s daughter to get their revenge for the theft of millions of dollars felt dated and not how you would expect someone in the criminal underworld in 2023 to respond. They would unite and go after the perpetrator, make an example out of him and get their money back, which would send a very important message to anyone else who may attempt to do the same thing. Killing a daughter that no one cares about isn’t going to get the same result. Finally, Costa’s plan to have Hellie forge the art classics and sell them on the black market as original paintings has one flaw. Art historians are able to determine through the age of the paint used on a painting if it’s actually a classic or a forgery. If you were going to pay millions for a painting on the black market wouldn’t you have an expert verify it’s an original and not a forgery?
Even fiction needs to have some aspects of it that is believable. I’m giving this author a pass on this book because normally the books are good. If you can get past all of that, then perhaps you will enjoy this book.
DNF. Normally this author’s stories are believable and done well. This book began as something out of the time period of the Godfather, not 2023.
Their plan to murder Danny Arcadia’s daughter to get their revenge for the theft of millions of dollars felt dated and not how you would expect someone in the criminal underworld in 2023 to respond. They would unite and go after the perpetrator, make an example out of him and get their money back, which would send a very important message to anyone else who may attempt to do the same thing. Killing a daughter that no one cares about isn’t going to get the same result. Finally, Costa’s plan to have Hellie forge the art classics and sell them on the black market as original paintings has one flaw. Art historians are able to determine through the age of the paint used on a painting if it’s actually a classic or a forgery. If you were going to pay millions for a painting on the black market wouldn’t you have an expert verify it’s an original and not a forgery?
Even fiction needs to have some aspects of it that is believable. I’m giving this author a pass on this book because normally the books are good. If you can get past all of that, then perhaps you will enjoy this book.
December 11, 2023
‘Hateful Promise’ is a powerful mafia story that has so much to offer and it just keeps giving until the very end.
Hellie is in an unfortunate predicament - her father stole from the mafia and she's his only family, so she's in danger… Erick Costa takes her for collateral – she's supposed to paint for him…but so much more happens instead.
Erick has charisma in spades and it oozes out from every pore. Hellie is beautiful, talented, and she's a fireball waiting to attack in every situation if needed. Erick has met his match in her and he doesn't know it. Their chatter back and forth is epic and I love it so much!!!!! They work so well together - if only they could see it… I love this couple so very much - they just didn't start in an ideal way.
If you enjoy mafia reads, ‘Hateful Promise’ might be a good fit for you!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hellie is in an unfortunate predicament - her father stole from the mafia and she's his only family, so she's in danger… Erick Costa takes her for collateral – she's supposed to paint for him…but so much more happens instead.
Erick has charisma in spades and it oozes out from every pore. Hellie is beautiful, talented, and she's a fireball waiting to attack in every situation if needed. Erick has met his match in her and he doesn't know it. Their chatter back and forth is epic and I love it so much!!!!! They work so well together - if only they could see it… I love this couple so very much - they just didn't start in an ideal way.
If you enjoy mafia reads, ‘Hateful Promise’ might be a good fit for you!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 8, 2023
The intensity of this read really appealed to me. From the emotions to the feelings, to the drama, to the tension, to the heat, everything just felt so intense. And please, don't even get me started on the attraction between these two because it was elemental and as hot as lava. Simply an incredible read.
December 23, 2023
Hateful Promise by B. B. Hamel is book Three in the Costa Crime Family Series. This is the story of Heloise ‘Hellie’ Accard and Erick Costa. This is a interconnecting series so it does add to your enjoyment if you have read the previous books. Heloise's father has gotten himself on the bad side of the mafia. Heloise is his only family and accent.
December 11, 2023
Hateful Promise is the third installment in Costa Nostra Crime Family series. It's interconnected with characters from previous books appearing in each book. However, each book are full-length standalone novel with no cheating or cliffhanger and complete with a happily-ever-after. It’s exquisitely written with complex characters and a revenge driven storyline that captures your attention from the beginning and keeps you engrossed and turning the pages until the end with it's pulse-pounding thrills, adventure, and twists and turns. A fast paced, quick gripping, twisted story. This is Erick and Hellie story. A hate-to-love vibes story, forced proximity, enemies-to-lovers romance, dark mafia romance, billionaire romance, romantic suspense, morally gray antihero, with slow burn passion, lust, secrets, deception, lies, loyalties, action, emotions, tension, angst, anger, revenge, revelations, retaliation, steam, mystery, acceptance, sabotage, abduction, survival, distrust, theft, captivity, danger, attack and so much more.
Hellie Accardi is a beautiful, gifted, creative and talented painter with a scumbag, worthless individual who she happens to share the same DNA with as father, Daniel Accardi who's a con man thief. Because of his hill gotten selfish ways it has somehow blow back into her life. He has managed to stole millions of dollars from the people, little did he know that he has stolen from three mafiso and now he has just put his daughter in their cross-hair to repair that debt. Erick Costa, Clifton Frost, Alberto Gallo is all on her track. Daniel hijacked their armored truck of cash and as punishment for his action they want to spill his daughter's blood in Vegas so that they don't look weak.
However, Erick got to her first before those deranged, unhinged, sociopath got her. He abduct her forcing her do something that she doesn't want any part of which is to do a forgery. Erick knows of her talent and tells her to do a painting to get the others off her. He didn't want to kill her once he saw her she was beautiful and he was taken by her. Erick is the second oldest Costa brother he's smart, stoic, a dominant, mob boss, and tatted. The more time that they spent together they started to care for each other and she saw that they were a softer side to his tough than when they first met. Erick tries to protect her from the other mob boss while walking a fine line of not starting a war for his family. He will go to extreme to protect her. The chemistry was magnetic and sizzling. Will Hellie continue to be loyal to her even after Erick have gone out of his way to protect her? What will happen when her father resurface? Will Clifton and Alberto make an example out him or will Daniel give them back their money to save his daughter? Will Erick and Hellie get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hellie Accardi is a beautiful, gifted, creative and talented painter with a scumbag, worthless individual who she happens to share the same DNA with as father, Daniel Accardi who's a con man thief. Because of his hill gotten selfish ways it has somehow blow back into her life. He has managed to stole millions of dollars from the people, little did he know that he has stolen from three mafiso and now he has just put his daughter in their cross-hair to repair that debt. Erick Costa, Clifton Frost, Alberto Gallo is all on her track. Daniel hijacked their armored truck of cash and as punishment for his action they want to spill his daughter's blood in Vegas so that they don't look weak.
However, Erick got to her first before those deranged, unhinged, sociopath got her. He abduct her forcing her do something that she doesn't want any part of which is to do a forgery. Erick knows of her talent and tells her to do a painting to get the others off her. He didn't want to kill her once he saw her she was beautiful and he was taken by her. Erick is the second oldest Costa brother he's smart, stoic, a dominant, mob boss, and tatted. The more time that they spent together they started to care for each other and she saw that they were a softer side to his tough than when they first met. Erick tries to protect her from the other mob boss while walking a fine line of not starting a war for his family. He will go to extreme to protect her. The chemistry was magnetic and sizzling. Will Hellie continue to be loyal to her even after Erick have gone out of his way to protect her? What will happen when her father resurface? Will Clifton and Alberto make an example out him or will Daniel give them back their money to save his daughter? Will Erick and Hellie get their HEA?
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2023
HATEFUL PROMISE is the third instalment in BB Hamel’s contemporary, adult COSTA CRIME FAMILY erotic, Mafia romance series. This is casino owner Erick Costa, and artist Heloise ‘Hellie’ Accardi’s story line. HATEFUL PROMISE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives Erick and Hellie) HATEFUL PROMISE follows in the wake of the theft of several million dollars from several local crime organizations in Las Vegas. Professional thief Daniel Accardi has skipped town, and with it, left his only daughter to pay for his sins. Heloise Accardi is an artist, a painter who is about to discover that to pay for the sins of her father, she must either forfeit her life, and work with the Las Vegas gangsters in an effort to defraud collectors of millions of dollars. Enter mobster and billionaire casino owner Erick Costa, the man with whom Hellie will fall in love. Hellie will become Erick’s prisoner and in-house artist, a position that pushes Hellie to the edges of sanity. What ensues is the building relationship between Hellie and Erick, and the potential fall-out when Hellie is forced to betray herself and go against her moral code.
The world building focuses on betrayal and vengeance, forgery and fraud, acceptance and love. Erick finds himself falling for his captive, a woman with a target on her back, and a father who is missing without a trace. In an effort to pay back the millions of dollars in missing money, Heloise Accardi is forced to re-capture the Masters, a feat only a few have ever accomplished. As the days and weeks pass, Erick finds himself falling for his captive, a woman who continues to struggle with what is happening and why.
The relationship between Hellie and Erick begins as prisoner and warden. Hellie must pay for her father’s sins but with Erick as her guardian, she is protected from those wanting vengeance including the death of our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative.
We are introduced to Erick’s right hand man Ren, his housekeeper Marina, as well as local crime lords Clifton Frost, and Alberto Gallo.
HATEFUL PROMISE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, forgiveness and love. The premise is heart breaking and emotional; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are desperate and charismatic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied by Booksprout
Told from dual first person perspectives Erick and Hellie) HATEFUL PROMISE follows in the wake of the theft of several million dollars from several local crime organizations in Las Vegas. Professional thief Daniel Accardi has skipped town, and with it, left his only daughter to pay for his sins. Heloise Accardi is an artist, a painter who is about to discover that to pay for the sins of her father, she must either forfeit her life, and work with the Las Vegas gangsters in an effort to defraud collectors of millions of dollars. Enter mobster and billionaire casino owner Erick Costa, the man with whom Hellie will fall in love. Hellie will become Erick’s prisoner and in-house artist, a position that pushes Hellie to the edges of sanity. What ensues is the building relationship between Hellie and Erick, and the potential fall-out when Hellie is forced to betray herself and go against her moral code.
The world building focuses on betrayal and vengeance, forgery and fraud, acceptance and love. Erick finds himself falling for his captive, a woman with a target on her back, and a father who is missing without a trace. In an effort to pay back the millions of dollars in missing money, Heloise Accardi is forced to re-capture the Masters, a feat only a few have ever accomplished. As the days and weeks pass, Erick finds himself falling for his captive, a woman who continues to struggle with what is happening and why.
The relationship between Hellie and Erick begins as prisoner and warden. Hellie must pay for her father’s sins but with Erick as her guardian, she is protected from those wanting vengeance including the death of our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative.
We are introduced to Erick’s right hand man Ren, his housekeeper Marina, as well as local crime lords Clifton Frost, and Alberto Gallo.
HATEFUL PROMISE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, forgiveness and love. The premise is heart breaking and emotional; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are desperate and charismatic.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied by Booksprout
December 11, 2023
MMC/FMC- Erick and Hellie
POV- 1st person dual
Genre- Mafia Romance
Sub Genre- Organized Crime, NOS
Heat- 🌋🌋🌋🌋☄️ (1🌋=2☄️). It’s skin and teeth and raw and real.
Series? IDK
Safety? Y. No cheating or s. violence, although some of the zexytime talk gets pretty intense.
HEA/HFN? HEA.
Triggers- Criminal behavior including but not limited to confidence games and fraud, language, explicit erotic content (including spanking).
Tropes- Captor/Captive, Starving Artist, Pros and Cons, Do-Si-Do With The Mafioso, Viva Las Vegas, Simply Mad About The Mob, That’s Not My Leg, One Steve Limit, Hate To Love You /Love To Hate You.
What I liked- the chemistry between the two is electric, with a lot of love/hate play and arguments-as-foreplay. The zexytime is visceral and earthy, but with banter and teasing, and it seemed like the mental foreplay was as important as the physical to them. I liked how he took care of her when she was in the zone and chuckled out loud when he said he had showered her to prevent her smelling like a pumpkin. That’s #goals right there.
What I didn’t like- the One Steve Limit means that no two characters can have the same first name. When it’s taken to extremes, it means that nobody is ever likely to have the same name as the main characters, and that is the case here. I’m not a fan of weird spellings and names that are obviously trying too hard to be Unique. It’s a matter of time before we get characters named Hunckson and Channtilleee. But, I have to admit, the name Hellie grew on me because it gave rise to the nickname Devil Girl, and became part of the story. I still hate the CK spelling of Erick, though.
Verdict- naming issues aside, I enjoyed the book a lot and I’d give it 4.5 stars. Also, I think it should be a relationship rule that the ideal partner should help one avoid sporting Eau de Pumpkin.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
POV- 1st person dual
Genre- Mafia Romance
Sub Genre- Organized Crime, NOS
Heat- 🌋🌋🌋🌋☄️ (1🌋=2☄️). It’s skin and teeth and raw and real.
Series? IDK
Safety? Y. No cheating or s. violence, although some of the zexytime talk gets pretty intense.
HEA/HFN? HEA.
Triggers- Criminal behavior including but not limited to confidence games and fraud, language, explicit erotic content (including spanking).
Tropes- Captor/Captive, Starving Artist, Pros and Cons, Do-Si-Do With The Mafioso, Viva Las Vegas, Simply Mad About The Mob, That’s Not My Leg, One Steve Limit, Hate To Love You /Love To Hate You.
What I liked- the chemistry between the two is electric, with a lot of love/hate play and arguments-as-foreplay. The zexytime is visceral and earthy, but with banter and teasing, and it seemed like the mental foreplay was as important as the physical to them. I liked how he took care of her when she was in the zone and chuckled out loud when he said he had showered her to prevent her smelling like a pumpkin. That’s #goals right there.
What I didn’t like- the One Steve Limit means that no two characters can have the same first name. When it’s taken to extremes, it means that nobody is ever likely to have the same name as the main characters, and that is the case here. I’m not a fan of weird spellings and names that are obviously trying too hard to be Unique. It’s a matter of time before we get characters named Hunckson and Channtilleee. But, I have to admit, the name Hellie grew on me because it gave rise to the nickname Devil Girl, and became part of the story. I still hate the CK spelling of Erick, though.
Verdict- naming issues aside, I enjoyed the book a lot and I’d give it 4.5 stars. Also, I think it should be a relationship rule that the ideal partner should help one avoid sporting Eau de Pumpkin.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2023
“Hateful Promise” is the third book in the Costa Crime Family series by B. B. Hamel. It’s an enemies- to- lovers Mafia story. Although part of a series, this book can be read as a complete standalone.
Eric and his brothers are the core of the Costa criminal organization. Each brother has a different area of responsibility. Eric handles the Las Vegas casino and operations. When a local con man pulls off the heist of a lifetime, he steals millions from Eric and a couple of other Vegas mob bosses. The thief vanishes, but his daughter Heloise (Hellie) works for a “paid and sip wine” location right in the area. Eric has an idea that will hopefully make up for the money her father stole and prevent the other mobsters from ending Hellie’s life – if he can convince her to do it. Hellie knows her father has always been a petty criminal, but she loves him anyway. After all, he is her only family. But when Eric kidnaps her and tells her the only way to save her life is for her to forge stolen masterpieces that can be sold on the black market, she can’t believe it. Hellie doesn’t believe she has the talent to pull it off. Plus, her whole life, she swore she’d never be a criminal like her father. Now she seems to have no choice.
Of course, it’s not realistic to think that in less than a week someone could create a copy of a masterpiece that would fool experts. But when you read fiction, part of the fun is suspending reality. I thought the author did a good job of conveying what it can be like for an artist to be completely “in the zone”. Eric and Hellie are both intense as individual characters and together they are combustible. Eric’s second-in-command and his housekeeper/cook are interesting secondary characters. There are some humorous moments to balance out the scary and steamy ones. There are also several good twists and turns.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions.
Eric and his brothers are the core of the Costa criminal organization. Each brother has a different area of responsibility. Eric handles the Las Vegas casino and operations. When a local con man pulls off the heist of a lifetime, he steals millions from Eric and a couple of other Vegas mob bosses. The thief vanishes, but his daughter Heloise (Hellie) works for a “paid and sip wine” location right in the area. Eric has an idea that will hopefully make up for the money her father stole and prevent the other mobsters from ending Hellie’s life – if he can convince her to do it. Hellie knows her father has always been a petty criminal, but she loves him anyway. After all, he is her only family. But when Eric kidnaps her and tells her the only way to save her life is for her to forge stolen masterpieces that can be sold on the black market, she can’t believe it. Hellie doesn’t believe she has the talent to pull it off. Plus, her whole life, she swore she’d never be a criminal like her father. Now she seems to have no choice.
Of course, it’s not realistic to think that in less than a week someone could create a copy of a masterpiece that would fool experts. But when you read fiction, part of the fun is suspending reality. I thought the author did a good job of conveying what it can be like for an artist to be completely “in the zone”. Eric and Hellie are both intense as individual characters and together they are combustible. Eric’s second-in-command and his housekeeper/cook are interesting secondary characters. There are some humorous moments to balance out the scary and steamy ones. There are also several good twists and turns.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my thoughts and opinions.
December 11, 2023
His Captive Lover -
Hellie was happy living living her life and working, when she was snatched off the streets and kept in captivity and ordered to undertake an illegal task to repay her father’s debt. Erick was only looking to recoup his losses by putting Hellie to work, but his attraction for her grew as he spent time with her and got to experience her feisty attitude.
Hellie got to realise her dream performing the task whilst Erick kelt her safe, but the fact she was being held captive made it difficult for her, so she jumped at the chance when she got the opportunity to escape. Unfortunately, her plans were thwarted and restrictions were placed upon her. However, Erick made it possible for her to meet father, as well as resolving the issue that would definitely ensure she would be safe, so they could work towards the life the6 both wanted.
This dark, explosive, fast paced, and suspense-filled romance story, had me totally engrossed for an entire day and was a truly exciting read. I suggest you ensure your entire day is free before you start reading this book, because there is no chance you will want to take a break. Grab a copy of this book and you won’t be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hellie was happy living living her life and working, when she was snatched off the streets and kept in captivity and ordered to undertake an illegal task to repay her father’s debt. Erick was only looking to recoup his losses by putting Hellie to work, but his attraction for her grew as he spent time with her and got to experience her feisty attitude.
Hellie got to realise her dream performing the task whilst Erick kelt her safe, but the fact she was being held captive made it difficult for her, so she jumped at the chance when she got the opportunity to escape. Unfortunately, her plans were thwarted and restrictions were placed upon her. However, Erick made it possible for her to meet father, as well as resolving the issue that would definitely ensure she would be safe, so they could work towards the life the6 both wanted.
This dark, explosive, fast paced, and suspense-filled romance story, had me totally engrossed for an entire day and was a truly exciting read. I suggest you ensure your entire day is free before you start reading this book, because there is no chance you will want to take a break. Grab a copy of this book and you won’t be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2024
Hellie Accardi works at a sip and paint place called Picasso’s Drinking Problem in Las Vegas. Her father Daniel has been a con man in Vegas forever. He is the only one that calls her Heloise. Hellie was raised by her grandmother and vowed to never be like her father even though she loves him. Her father is on the run and Hellie hopes no one comes looking for her to find her dad.
Erick Costa is waiting for Hellie when she leaves work. He wants to talk to her about the money her father stole from im. Actually, Danny knocked over an armored truck with 19 million dollars from three casinos in it. The other two casino owners are Alberto Gallo, an old time Vegas gangster and Clifton Frost, a younger up and coming player. Erick’s brother Adler is head of the family and he lets Erick kidnap Hellie to keep her safe from the other two. Erick knows that Hellie has no idea where her dad is but Erick has a plan to use Hellie to recoup their losses.
Will Erick’s plan work? Can Erick keep Hellie safe? Can they both deny the attraction they feel towards the other?
Another fun story about the Costa Family.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Erick Costa is waiting for Hellie when she leaves work. He wants to talk to her about the money her father stole from im. Actually, Danny knocked over an armored truck with 19 million dollars from three casinos in it. The other two casino owners are Alberto Gallo, an old time Vegas gangster and Clifton Frost, a younger up and coming player. Erick’s brother Adler is head of the family and he lets Erick kidnap Hellie to keep her safe from the other two. Erick knows that Hellie has no idea where her dad is but Erick has a plan to use Hellie to recoup their losses.
Will Erick’s plan work? Can Erick keep Hellie safe? Can they both deny the attraction they feel towards the other?
Another fun story about the Costa Family.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2024
I thought the story was okay, but I was overall disappointed. It was described as a hate to love romance, and the FMC definitely didn't put out a single hate vibe.
She's drugged and kidnapped, forced to paint forgeries, forced to take part in a world of crime (something she said was a line she'd never cross because her dad is a conman and is the reason she ended up in this situation)...and the hate wasn't there. There was barely tension, and none of the above felt forced.
Even Erick, the MMC, just felt...blah. No real feelings of tension, conflict, or remorse about forcing someone who he obviously had an attraction to and whose artwork he loved to do forgeries.
Edit/update- In the previous book, there's a concern about Erick not returning calls and one of the brothers (Jayson) was "allegedly going to head to Vegas to check on him" Chapter 44 page 313 ...nothing about that gets mentioned in this book. Originally I skimmed over that because I thought maybe it would pop up in the 4th book.
Well...the 4th book really throws the timeline askew and even though I haven't made it very far yet, I don't think that mystery will be solved.
She's drugged and kidnapped, forced to paint forgeries, forced to take part in a world of crime (something she said was a line she'd never cross because her dad is a conman and is the reason she ended up in this situation)...and the hate wasn't there. There was barely tension, and none of the above felt forced.
Even Erick, the MMC, just felt...blah. No real feelings of tension, conflict, or remorse about forcing someone who he obviously had an attraction to and whose artwork he loved to do forgeries.
Edit/update- In the previous book, there's a concern about Erick not returning calls and one of the brothers (Jayson) was "allegedly going to head to Vegas to check on him" Chapter 44 page 313 ...nothing about that gets mentioned in this book. Originally I skimmed over that because I thought maybe it would pop up in the 4th book.
Well...the 4th book really throws the timeline askew and even though I haven't made it very far yet, I don't think that mystery will be solved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2023
This is the third book in the Costa Crime family. But can be read as a standalone. It features Heloise, Hellie, Accardi. She is a painter and the daughter of Danny Accardi. He is an old school con man. When he pulls off his last big score he skips town. And now three mafia families want to take it out of his daughter. Fortunately Erick Costa finds her first. He abducts her and makes her an offer she can’t refuse. Paint a replica of a long lost Master and they will sell it as the original. Hellie is reluctant to do this. She had sworn never to be like her father. But she wants to live. When she actually pulls it off the other two mafiosas want more. But there is an instant attraction between Erick and Hellie. When Erick sees the toll it takes on Hellie he is lost. How can he get her out of this situation. This is where it gets exciting. Can Hellie continue to recreate these Masterpieces? Can Erick keep her safe? What happens when her father resurfaces? This is a fast paced, steamy story that is hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
December 11, 2023
This is a wonderful addition and a bit separate from the other Costa brother’s stories. In this one we get Erick who runs at Vegas Family holdings and when a man steals from 3 men and their casinos he becomes a target only to go into hiding. The ruthless men are unable to find him and Erick ends up kidnapping and drugging Hellie to make their loss whole, by painting fakes passing as lost originals. Hellie never had a father who was there for her and he’s always got a con ready. When Erick shows Hellie kindness she finds herself lost and ends up agreeing to his demands and they end up becoming more for the bottom to fall out when Hellie tries to run away. When things never get resolved as to why Erick becomes a cold man and the other 2 mafia men are out for their own blood. It’s amazing how things get turned around and Hellie has her father only to lose him without notice! These two find a way back together and are given the opportunity to move on with love and in the end her dad has the last word! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2023
Hellie was dragged in as an innocent victim to be sacrificed in revenge for her father's misdeeds. How tragic that sounds when all her life she had struggled to stay out of evil ways and deception. I really like it when authors present situations and issues that attract my interest and make me think. The descriptions and narrations about Hellie’s work and how she transcended and transformed into her art greatly stimulated my imagination and I seemed to see her through Erick's eyes. Admiration, passion, and fervor seemed to surround the gangster when it came to Hellie. Interesting what initially motivated Erick Costa and how he managed his feelings, not struggling with them, and protected Hellie. I liked this member of the Costa family with his passion, his genuine interest in Hellie's well-being and his inclination towards art. The story kept me intrigued, waiting for the outcome with the danger that loomed over Hellie, and I even came to conclusions that were not correct at all. Action, suspense, kidnapping, gangsters, forgery, mixed feelings, danger, romance, and passion.
December 12, 2023
When Hellie's father steals from three powerful casino families a target is painted on her back. Two of the three want to send a message to other wannabe thieves by killing her brutally and the third wants her for her talents and more...
Hellie promised herself she would never be anything like her father so when Erick Costa kidnaps her and forces her to paint forgeries she flat out refuses but after meeting with the other two guys and hearing how vicious they are and the ways they want to unalive her she realizes that Erick is trying to keep her safe and his way is the only way to stay alive. It's not so bad being kept in a luxurious home in the desert with a beautiful studio to paint in and a gorgeous man who watches her and worships her as an artist and as a woman.
I loved Hellie and Erick's growing relationship. The way he cares for her when she's in the zone painting and the filthy mouth he has on him. But Hellie is no push over. She knows her situation and she may have to go along with it, but she won't make it easy.
Hellie promised herself she would never be anything like her father so when Erick Costa kidnaps her and forces her to paint forgeries she flat out refuses but after meeting with the other two guys and hearing how vicious they are and the ways they want to unalive her she realizes that Erick is trying to keep her safe and his way is the only way to stay alive. It's not so bad being kept in a luxurious home in the desert with a beautiful studio to paint in and a gorgeous man who watches her and worships her as an artist and as a woman.
I loved Hellie and Erick's growing relationship. The way he cares for her when she's in the zone painting and the filthy mouth he has on him. But Hellie is no push over. She knows her situation and she may have to go along with it, but she won't make it easy.
December 16, 2023
Business Becomes Personal
The moment Erick Costa sees Hellie Accardi he feels a raw blast of pure emotion, something like desire, something like hunger. Buts he doesn’t even know her and he cannot imagine why he’s feel much of anything at all. He can pretend all this is about business and business only, that her painting is nothing more than a means to an end, but that’s not true. He soon looks forward to learning about all her twisted little fantasies even though she says she is vanilla as they come. He likes so much about this girl. Which is a problem because every time he gets close to something he likes, it always ends up corrupted and ruined. Hellie hates Erick and wants him all at once. The worst part of this captivity is she wants to stay. This is another enjoyable Costa Crime Family steamy mafia romance with intriguing suspense and interesting twists. The characters are intriguing and loyal with great banter back and forth.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The moment Erick Costa sees Hellie Accardi he feels a raw blast of pure emotion, something like desire, something like hunger. Buts he doesn’t even know her and he cannot imagine why he’s feel much of anything at all. He can pretend all this is about business and business only, that her painting is nothing more than a means to an end, but that’s not true. He soon looks forward to learning about all her twisted little fantasies even though she says she is vanilla as they come. He likes so much about this girl. Which is a problem because every time he gets close to something he likes, it always ends up corrupted and ruined. Hellie hates Erick and wants him all at once. The worst part of this captivity is she wants to stay. This is another enjoyable Costa Crime Family steamy mafia romance with intriguing suspense and interesting twists. The characters are intriguing and loyal with great banter back and forth.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2023
an interesting read
Hellie is an unusual character for a mafia love interest. But the end of the day, the mechanism that drew them together was the fact that each of them thought the other was really good looking which makes it normal to be attracted to one another. HellIe fell for Erick because he took really good care of her. Erick was looking out for his interests and trying to recoup money her father owed him and some fellow casino owners. When Hellie got into the zone, she was oblivious to her physical needs and Erick was seduced by her passion for her work and he thought it was incredible the way she worked so he felt he needed to attend to her needs by ensuring, she hydrated and she used the bathroom.
At the end of the day he helped her to relax so she could get four hours of sleep and get back to work. They were working on a timeline. He fell in love with her. Erick realized she needed someone to take care of her and he wanted to do it. Loved this story. And the second scenes were palpable!!
Loved this book.
Hellie is an unusual character for a mafia love interest. But the end of the day, the mechanism that drew them together was the fact that each of them thought the other was really good looking which makes it normal to be attracted to one another. HellIe fell for Erick because he took really good care of her. Erick was looking out for his interests and trying to recoup money her father owed him and some fellow casino owners. When Hellie got into the zone, she was oblivious to her physical needs and Erick was seduced by her passion for her work and he thought it was incredible the way she worked so he felt he needed to attend to her needs by ensuring, she hydrated and she used the bathroom.
At the end of the day he helped her to relax so she could get four hours of sleep and get back to work. They were working on a timeline. He fell in love with her. Erick realized she needed someone to take care of her and he wanted to do it. Loved this story. And the second scenes were palpable!!
Loved this book.
December 9, 2023
This started right off and I was instantly hooked. For a second things started to slow and felt repetitive, but not for long! I was hooked and couldn’t flip the pages fast enough. I enjoyed both characters. But I wanted to smack sense into Hellie. She got me irritated when she wasn’t honest with Erick and chose to protect her father. I was really hoping Erick wouldn’t have gave in so easily to forgive what she did. I just wanted her to be honest and after everything her dad did have loyalty to Erick.
I loved the surprise ending! I had my doubts about the turn of events with her dad, then I started to believe it was as it seemed and felt a little disappointed because I was expecting more. But then it flipped again and I was shocked! (You’ll have to read to understand, I don’t want to give spoilers away!)
This was a good read, had some really good steamy moments and the sexual chemistry between them was really hot.
December 9, 2023
Hateful Promise is the third book in the Costa Crime family, but it can be read as a standalone. It is a Mafia hate to love romance. It features Heloise and Erick, Heloise is a painter and the daughter of a man who stole money from Erick and 2 other families. These guys want to make an example of Heloise to show what happens when you steal from them. Fortunately Erick finds her first and makes her an offer of she paints replica paintings for them to sell on and he keeps her safe. Heloise doesn't want to be like her father but agrees as it keeps her alive. The other 2 families decide they want more paintings which takes it toll on her so Erick tries to help as he is attracted to her and doesn't want to see her hurt.
I really enjoyed this book, its well written and I couldn't put it down. I loved the instant attraction between Heloise and Erick. Definitely recommend.
I really enjoyed this book, its well written and I couldn't put it down. I loved the instant attraction between Heloise and Erick. Definitely recommend.
December 11, 2023
Fall in love with this unlikely relationship!
You will immediately fall in love with Hellie who works at a dead end job in her field to make ends meet. Or that is until Erick kidnaps her after her father pulls a heist stealing millions from him and two other men. Erick’s way for Hellie to pay them back is by painting forgeries which goes against all Hellie believes in. She doesn’t want to turn in to her father who taught her much about the con business growing up. Yet when faced with the threats from the other two men, Hellie realizes she doesn’t have an option if she wants to live. What follows is a lot of push and pull between Erick and Hellie because the sparks flying off the two is epic! Plot twists abound that will have you turning the pages while rooting for the two to find their happily ever after!
You will immediately fall in love with Hellie who works at a dead end job in her field to make ends meet. Or that is until Erick kidnaps her after her father pulls a heist stealing millions from him and two other men. Erick’s way for Hellie to pay them back is by painting forgeries which goes against all Hellie believes in. She doesn’t want to turn in to her father who taught her much about the con business growing up. Yet when faced with the threats from the other two men, Hellie realizes she doesn’t have an option if she wants to live. What follows is a lot of push and pull between Erick and Hellie because the sparks flying off the two is epic! Plot twists abound that will have you turning the pages while rooting for the two to find their happily ever after!
December 19, 2023
Family drama and enemies to more
Hateful Promise is the third book in the Costa Crime Family and is the story of Erick Costa and Heloise "Hellie" Accardi. This story find Hellie in a lot of trouble because of her con man father. He pulled off a big job and then skipped town, leaving three mafia families ready to take it out of Hellie. She is a painter/artist so when Erick finds her first he proposes she put her talents to work. Hellie never wanted to be like her father but she finds she has no choice if she wants to live. There is an attraction between Hellie and Erick from the start that grows. The question is whether he can keep her safe from the other families while everything is swirling around them.
This was a good story with a fast-paced and steamy story-line. I liked Hellie, found I wanted to kick Erick's butt a few times but he redeemed himself in the end.
Hateful Promise is the third book in the Costa Crime Family and is the story of Erick Costa and Heloise "Hellie" Accardi. This story find Hellie in a lot of trouble because of her con man father. He pulled off a big job and then skipped town, leaving three mafia families ready to take it out of Hellie. She is a painter/artist so when Erick finds her first he proposes she put her talents to work. Hellie never wanted to be like her father but she finds she has no choice if she wants to live. There is an attraction between Hellie and Erick from the start that grows. The question is whether he can keep her safe from the other families while everything is swirling around them.
This was a good story with a fast-paced and steamy story-line. I liked Hellie, found I wanted to kick Erick's butt a few times but he redeemed himself in the end.
December 23, 2023
It took me a bit but then I realized that this was another Costa Brother from a previous story/series, and I was so happy. Erick Costa is part of the Costa Mafia family but comes across as a sweetheart who cares about protecting innocents. Hellie is a free-spirited artist who is the daughter of a Las Vegas Con man who happened to steal from Erick and two other dangerous casino owners. When he finds out that Hellie has been targeted by the other two men, he decides to kidnap her and keep her under his protection. Their relationship starts off rocky but then they both realize that they have feelings for each other. There are so many twists, turns and surprises that I was kept on the edge of my seat wondering what was coming up next.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2023
Sizzling Mafia Revenge Romance!!
Hellie is left in an impossible situation by her dad. He stole not from just one casino, but three. Two want an immediate “example” made of her, but one realizes he can recoup his losses. Erick Costa owns a piece of art from Hellie already. He believes she can re-create some “missing” masterpieces, and her talents don’t need to be destroyed.
Hellie vowed never to be like her father. The choice to live means she is on the wrong side of the law. Can you enjoy your art if your life depends upon it? A psychological game. A remote location that means certain death to leave - either by the others, or mother nature.
Intricate and captivating!
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
Hellie is left in an impossible situation by her dad. He stole not from just one casino, but three. Two want an immediate “example” made of her, but one realizes he can recoup his losses. Erick Costa owns a piece of art from Hellie already. He believes she can re-create some “missing” masterpieces, and her talents don’t need to be destroyed.
Hellie vowed never to be like her father. The choice to live means she is on the wrong side of the law. Can you enjoy your art if your life depends upon it? A psychological game. A remote location that means certain death to leave - either by the others, or mother nature.
Intricate and captivating!
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
January 2, 2024
Hellie and Erick!
I have always love Ms.Hamel books,no disappointment on this story at all,just beautiful. Hellie is a con artist 's daughter, she has to pay for his crime or she dies,Erick works out a plan with her and everything works out for awhile, they grow closer,until her father contracts her and Erick thinks she is lying and her doesn't trust her,so she is under house arrest so to now speak.Erick finds her father and brings back to the dessert house and they talk and now Hellie was telling the truth but now her father needs help but it could start war,before they could help,Hallie suffer 's a loss,but later on she finds out that Erick and Rem were keeping a secert from her but it was for the best! this couple does get a happy ever!
I have always love Ms.Hamel books,no disappointment on this story at all,just beautiful. Hellie is a con artist 's daughter, she has to pay for his crime or she dies,Erick works out a plan with her and everything works out for awhile, they grow closer,until her father contracts her and Erick thinks she is lying and her doesn't trust her,so she is under house arrest so to now speak.Erick finds her father and brings back to the dessert house and they talk and now Hellie was telling the truth but now her father needs help but it could start war,before they could help,Hallie suffer 's a loss,but later on she finds out that Erick and Rem were keeping a secert from her but it was for the best! this couple does get a happy ever!
December 12, 2023
In this story, we get to know Erick Costa, one of the brothers in the Costa Mafia family. He is responsible for things in Las Vegas, and has just been robbed - and we all know - no one steals from the Costa family and gets away with it!!
Hellie is innocent but (unfortunately for her), right in the middle of this mess, and in very real danger.
This has all the drama, pulse pounding intrigue and steamy chemistry we love from this author. It was hard to stop reading, once I started.
Erick and Hellie's connection is actually my favorite of all the Costa brothers so far! I appreciated the lengths he went to, for her safety.
You do not need to read in order, but I do recommend reading the others...
Twisted Wedding- Alder/Casey
Wedding Disaster-Conlan/Isabel
I look forward to the next new release from this talented author. I was fortunate to receive a free ARC of this book and I happily leave my review.
Hellie is innocent but (unfortunately for her), right in the middle of this mess, and in very real danger.
This has all the drama, pulse pounding intrigue and steamy chemistry we love from this author. It was hard to stop reading, once I started.
Erick and Hellie's connection is actually my favorite of all the Costa brothers so far! I appreciated the lengths he went to, for her safety.
You do not need to read in order, but I do recommend reading the others...
Twisted Wedding- Alder/Casey
Wedding Disaster-Conlan/Isabel
I look forward to the next new release from this talented author. I was fortunate to receive a free ARC of this book and I happily leave my review.
December 12, 2023
Honestly my favorite of the Costa brothers so far. I adored Erick. I had no clue going into this how much I was going to love him. Hellie gets a raw deal by having a father that does nothing but steal. He makes a huge mistake by stealing from the wrong people, Erick included. As they come after Hellie, Erick gets to her first and tries to run interference by using her talents as an artist to get the money back with painting forgeries. Unexpected attraction and chemistry between these two create problems as emotions get in the way. Such a great read and my new favorite brother.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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