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The Sullivan Scoundrels #1
Cillian
Monster. Criminal. Terrifying.
Many come to mind, but only one word can illustrate the constant terror associated with the man of my nightmares.
Cillian.
My testimony put the Irish gangster behind bars—that was—until my ambitious father negotiated my hand in marriage for a sliver of the Irish organized crime scene.
We shouldn't even be able to marry, but the laws have changed. Meaning a pure blooded Irishman can marry a Black girl like me.
That's not even my biggest problem. He doesn't know I'm the one who sealed his fate all those years ago. So I don't know what I should be afraid of more, the thought of him wanting to end me when he learns the truth, or...
Me discovering that there's more to this impulsive mobster than meets the eye.
Cillian is book one of the Sullivan Scoundrels, an alternative history/historical romance. If historical accuracy is important to you, this read you might want to skip. But if you like over-the-top, morally grey, dangerous heroes who will do anything for the women they love, you might just like what you see.
Many come to mind, but only one word can illustrate the constant terror associated with the man of my nightmares.
Cillian.
My testimony put the Irish gangster behind bars—that was—until my ambitious father negotiated my hand in marriage for a sliver of the Irish organized crime scene.
We shouldn't even be able to marry, but the laws have changed. Meaning a pure blooded Irishman can marry a Black girl like me.
That's not even my biggest problem. He doesn't know I'm the one who sealed his fate all those years ago. So I don't know what I should be afraid of more, the thought of him wanting to end me when he learns the truth, or...
Me discovering that there's more to this impulsive mobster than meets the eye.
Cillian is book one of the Sullivan Scoundrels, an alternative history/historical romance. If historical accuracy is important to you, this read you might want to skip. But if you like over-the-top, morally grey, dangerous heroes who will do anything for the women they love, you might just like what you see.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2024
263 people are currently reading
314 people want to read
About the author
Ramani Rose
4 books42 followersRamani Rose is both a lover and a fighter for anything dark and anything taboo.
She writes IR where Black women tame the alphas they're not supposed to fall for!
She lives in the fictional world of her imagination...
She writes IR where Black women tame the alphas they're not supposed to fall for!
She lives in the fictional world of her imagination...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
August 29, 2024
This is the first book in the Sullivan Scoundrels series and the debut by Ramani Rose.
Cillian and Queenie come from very different worlds and are forced together. Their families arrange for them to marry, and neither is happy about it.
Though they have their own animosity towards each other they must overcome, they are also dealing with being an interracial and interfaith couple in 1940s in Boston. I thought their backstory was interesting and what they ended up finding common ground around made them a strong couple.
I thought the story was interesting and that the author easily took us back to that time period and how different things were.
I did think there were times when the discussion of Cillian and Queenie’s differences got repetitive, but this is also the first book in a series, so I understand trying to give the world-building as much information as possible.
I’m excited to read about the other brother’s stories as they come!
Thank you for the ARC Ramani. ❤️
Cillian and Queenie come from very different worlds and are forced together. Their families arrange for them to marry, and neither is happy about it.
Though they have their own animosity towards each other they must overcome, they are also dealing with being an interracial and interfaith couple in 1940s in Boston. I thought their backstory was interesting and what they ended up finding common ground around made them a strong couple.
I thought the story was interesting and that the author easily took us back to that time period and how different things were.
I did think there were times when the discussion of Cillian and Queenie’s differences got repetitive, but this is also the first book in a series, so I understand trying to give the world-building as much information as possible.
I’m excited to read about the other brother’s stories as they come!
Thank you for the ARC Ramani. ❤️
August 21, 2024
This book was so good. I love finding new smutty authors to obsess over!! And we have another unambiguous black FMC for the win!!
Killian and Queenie were such an adorable couple. Queenie witnessed Killian commit a crime and had him sent to jail and when he gets out a couple years later, she’s forced to marry him for a family arrangement. Very soon she realizes that all he wants is to protect her and care for her and he will cut down anybody who tries to harm her. She slowly starts to trust him and give her more parts of herself and he doesn’t let her down. This was a cute AND spicy read, just the way I like them.
Pick this one up. You won’t regret it 😈 excited for her next book
Killian and Queenie were such an adorable couple. Queenie witnessed Killian commit a crime and had him sent to jail and when he gets out a couple years later, she’s forced to marry him for a family arrangement. Very soon she realizes that all he wants is to protect her and care for her and he will cut down anybody who tries to harm her. She slowly starts to trust him and give her more parts of herself and he doesn’t let her down. This was a cute AND spicy read, just the way I like them.
Pick this one up. You won’t regret it 😈 excited for her next book
February 5, 2025
4.00 Stars. (BW/WM). Kindle Unlimited Edition 318 page e-book.
Setting: Twentieth Century (01/1901-01/2000) Boston Massachusetts.
Trope: Italian Mafia. Forced marriage of convenience. Fear and trepidation to love and devotion.
Characters:
1. Elizabeth "Queenie" Stanton is the 22-year-old virginal heroine.
2. Cillian Sullivan, hero, is a 23-year-old protective berserker of family and recently released inmate and youngest brother of the Sullivan Irish crime family.
3. Queenie's parents: cowed mother but her father is a grafter and gangster affiliate want-a-be.
4. Dr. Thorpe traumatized Queenie with inappropriate touching during pelvic exams ordered by her father.
5. Cillian's brother's and members of the Sullivan Family Crime Cartel from oldest to youngest:
A. Tadhg is a stoic red head and the oldest brother and heads of the family crime organization.
B. Bellamy is a skilled boxer and charmer... women love his dark hair and skin tone that makes
him look Italian; but he prefers Black women and will have any just not White.
C. Paddy is 3 years older than Cillian. He was drafted into the US Army making him a expert
marksman. He's blonde with movie star looks.
6. Orfhlaith is his only sister. She owns a boutique, has a child but has nothing to do with crime.
The author did a good job with the story aside from a few grammatical errors. Queenie witnessed Cillian kill a priest and testified against him in court. Cillian was sentenced to 10 years but got out in 3 because his brothers made a deal with Queenie's father...If Queenie disavowed her testimony the Sullivan's would front money for her father's club and bar to seal the deal and assure that no one reneged, Cillian and Queenie are to marry. Neither Queenie nor Cillian knew the other's involvement with his case. It was a lovely story. The author allowed the reader to witness these to characters go from fear and distrust to acceptance, trust and love. They got their HEA.
Setting: Twentieth Century (01/1901-01/2000) Boston Massachusetts.
Trope: Italian Mafia. Forced marriage of convenience. Fear and trepidation to love and devotion.
Characters:
1. Elizabeth "Queenie" Stanton is the 22-year-old virginal heroine.
2. Cillian Sullivan, hero, is a 23-year-old protective berserker of family and recently released inmate and youngest brother of the Sullivan Irish crime family.
3. Queenie's parents: cowed mother but her father is a grafter and gangster affiliate want-a-be.
4. Dr. Thorpe traumatized Queenie with inappropriate touching during pelvic exams ordered by her father.
5. Cillian's brother's and members of the Sullivan Family Crime Cartel from oldest to youngest:
A. Tadhg is a stoic red head and the oldest brother and heads of the family crime organization.
B. Bellamy is a skilled boxer and charmer... women love his dark hair and skin tone that makes
him look Italian; but he prefers Black women and will have any just not White.
C. Paddy is 3 years older than Cillian. He was drafted into the US Army making him a expert
marksman. He's blonde with movie star looks.
6. Orfhlaith is his only sister. She owns a boutique, has a child but has nothing to do with crime.
The author did a good job with the story aside from a few grammatical errors. Queenie witnessed Cillian kill a priest and testified against him in court. Cillian was sentenced to 10 years but got out in 3 because his brothers made a deal with Queenie's father...If Queenie disavowed her testimony the Sullivan's would front money for her father's club and bar to seal the deal and assure that no one reneged, Cillian and Queenie are to marry. Neither Queenie nor Cillian knew the other's involvement with his case. It was a lovely story. The author allowed the reader to witness these to characters go from fear and distrust to acceptance, trust and love. They got their HEA.
December 10, 2024
You get what you came for.
I’m surprised that the only 2 times BWWM mafia stories have worked for me, it was the Irish mob. Aside from some typos, insta love, and the impression that Queenie just shut off like a roomba until Cillian returned from work, I did enjoy this somewhat. I read it incredibly quickly and I was intrigued by the concepts.
This was meant to be a historical AU of sorts but there were times phrases used were entirely from the present and that took me out. Some speeches Cillian gave to explain his actions were way too psychologically informed than made sense for a guy with such a hair trigger temper.
Cillian’s kinks weren’t something i personally was into. It was giving serial killer fantasy with the chasing and drugging aspect. Queenie being so naive she thought erections were painful being willing to try these things felt nonsensical to me, but whatever.
Things that bothered me: Queenie didn’t seem to have any friends at all, yet the wedding was important to her. I get the sense she had a complicated love for her mother, but she didn’t really seem fond of literally anyone else from her community. That coupled with her not having a job made it seem like she just didn’t have a life when Cillian wasn’t around.
Overall, if this is your jam, I thought it was fairly entertaining. I’m wishing Bellamy’s story was coming out sooner because he was the most interesting to me.
I’m surprised that the only 2 times BWWM mafia stories have worked for me, it was the Irish mob. Aside from some typos, insta love, and the impression that Queenie just shut off like a roomba until Cillian returned from work, I did enjoy this somewhat. I read it incredibly quickly and I was intrigued by the concepts.
This was meant to be a historical AU of sorts but there were times phrases used were entirely from the present and that took me out. Some speeches Cillian gave to explain his actions were way too psychologically informed than made sense for a guy with such a hair trigger temper.
Cillian’s kinks weren’t something i personally was into. It was giving serial killer fantasy with the chasing and drugging aspect. Queenie being so naive she thought erections were painful being willing to try these things felt nonsensical to me, but whatever.
Things that bothered me: Queenie didn’t seem to have any friends at all, yet the wedding was important to her. I get the sense she had a complicated love for her mother, but she didn’t really seem fond of literally anyone else from her community. That coupled with her not having a job made it seem like she just didn’t have a life when Cillian wasn’t around.
Overall, if this is your jam, I thought it was fairly entertaining. I’m wishing Bellamy’s story was coming out sooner because he was the most interesting to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This also definitely reads as a peaky blinder fanfic.
Honestly nothing really special about this book. There was no real plot. Just the characters learning how to fit into the situation that they put in. Alot deconstruction of old beliefs ans as it is set in the 1940s it’s kind of speak for itself. I love Queen thou she is such a likeable character. But Highkey Bellamy is my fab of the brothers.
This also definitely reads as a peaky blinder fanfic.
Honestly nothing really special about this book. There was no real plot. Just the characters learning how to fit into the situation that they put in. Alot deconstruction of old beliefs ans as it is set in the 1940s it’s kind of speak for itself. I love Queen thou she is such a likeable character. But Highkey Bellamy is my fab of the brothers.
August 29, 2024
Good read…you’ll love it.
This was a really good book for a new author for me. I liked the alternate history aspect. Loved the characters, Queenie and Cillian. He was damaged but sweet loved how he loved his Queenie. I loved that Queenie was strong stood in her ideals, but was open enough to love despite how they came together. The book was really good and I’m looking forward newest book in this series.
I received an advanced reader copy from the author
This was a really good book for a new author for me. I liked the alternate history aspect. Loved the characters, Queenie and Cillian. He was damaged but sweet loved how he loved his Queenie. I loved that Queenie was strong stood in her ideals, but was open enough to love despite how they came together. The book was really good and I’m looking forward newest book in this series.
I received an advanced reader copy from the author
September 16, 2024
eh
I don’t like really innocent women and overly sexual men. It’s just so weird. Maybe I have to be spiritual to understand this mess but eh…not for me.
I don’t like really innocent women and overly sexual men. It’s just so weird. Maybe I have to be spiritual to understand this mess but eh…not for me.
September 9, 2024
3⭐️
Hmmmmmmmmmmmm didn’t hate it but I think this story had a lot of potential. Wasn’t a fan of the plot but considering it was a mafia trope this was to be expected, just felt like there was just a lot of whomping non stop (like that was the basis of most chapters). At the beginning of the book Queenie was said to have a stand up tough personality, but after she got married it’s like she was someone else, so for me she was basically a whilting flower.
However, with saying that Cillian was a good man for Queenie in how he always stood up for her especially when racist remarks were being made.
It was definitely spicy and the banter between the siblings was decent but I still didn’t love it enough to really bond with the characters and feel the emotions you normally feel when reading.
It was definitely something different and I’m happy I read it but I think personally it stops at Cillian for me :)
Hmmmmmmmmmmmm didn’t hate it but I think this story had a lot of potential. Wasn’t a fan of the plot but considering it was a mafia trope this was to be expected, just felt like there was just a lot of whomping non stop (like that was the basis of most chapters). At the beginning of the book Queenie was said to have a stand up tough personality, but after she got married it’s like she was someone else, so for me she was basically a whilting flower.
However, with saying that Cillian was a good man for Queenie in how he always stood up for her especially when racist remarks were being made.
It was definitely spicy and the banter between the siblings was decent but I still didn’t love it enough to really bond with the characters and feel the emotions you normally feel when reading.
It was definitely something different and I’m happy I read it but I think personally it stops at Cillian for me :)
Read
January 28, 2025This book was not for me and it was mostly because of the writing style. Some things were so abrupt like one moment Cillian is talking to his brother, outside the church after the wedding, and the same moment he’s helping Elizabeth to get into the car even though she was inside the church. Make it make sense.
The flow was not good. So many characters were introduced and so much stuff was happening without making any sense.
The smut was weird. Now I don’t have any problem with the explicit sex list given along the content warnings. I have read and enjoyed so many darker books. What’s weird is their dynamic. One moment she’s hating her husband, next moment he kills someone who harmed her and she’s ready to have sex with him ? It honestly reminds me of 365 days when the heroine in the movie falls from the yacht and the hero saves her and she’s like ohh you saved me .. let’s fuck ….
Elizabeth is shown as too innocent and Cillian is very horny and I’m just done with smut at the moment. Not shaming anyone who reads it but what happened to romance ? Not everything needs to be 25 chapters sex scenes.
The flow was not good. So many characters were introduced and so much stuff was happening without making any sense.
The smut was weird. Now I don’t have any problem with the explicit sex list given along the content warnings. I have read and enjoyed so many darker books. What’s weird is their dynamic. One moment she’s hating her husband, next moment he kills someone who harmed her and she’s ready to have sex with him ? It honestly reminds me of 365 days when the heroine in the movie falls from the yacht and the hero saves her and she’s like ohh you saved me .. let’s fuck ….
Elizabeth is shown as too innocent and Cillian is very horny and I’m just done with smut at the moment. Not shaming anyone who reads it but what happened to romance ? Not everything needs to be 25 chapters sex scenes.
February 12, 2025
Ramani Rose, You Killed it With CILLIAN!!! 🥰
What a debut! I’ll admit, this book had me at the blurb! If there is one thing I’m a sucker for, it’s historical romance. Throw in the Peaky Blinder effect, and you have definite potential for a five-star hit on your hands.
CILLIAN is a 5-Star hitter!
Cillian Sullivan is a man who spent the last three years in prison after being convicted of a murder. His brothers, The Sullivan Boys are part of a powerful crime family in Boston. They manage to get Cillian released from prison after getting the main witness to recant their statement. At first, Cillian is relieved and grateful. That’s until he learns he has to marry as a brokered part of his release. On his release day he finds out the person he is to marry is a Black woman, a rare occurrence given the period the story takes place in. Cillian is NOT happy. Until he sees her for the first time and is smitten. But what happens when he finds out that the woman he is set to marry is the very witness that put him in jail in the first place?
Enter: Queenie, the witness. She is forced by her family to make this union for the good of her family’s shady business. She is terrified of Cillian, having witnessed his violent nature. What Queenie doesn’t count on is developing feelings for her new husband in spite of his brutality. Will these two find common ground in not only their marriage but also a society divided by race and ethnicity?
I went into this knowing that there may be language that would be uncomfortable. But given the time period which the story is set, anything outside of what I’d read would be unrealistic. Ramani Rose took a challenging topic of race relations, caste systems, and cultural differences and weaved such a brilliant tale of romance around two people from opposite ends of the spectrum. Cillian and Queenie found a common ground in past trauma, personal family struggles, and the difference in social relations in their own communities. The end result is the reader witnessing their true and unapologetic love for one another.
This book is spicy! So there is definitely a lot going on concerning the notorious “Sullivan Curse” that I cannot wait to read more about in future books! I am hooked on this author and I’m moving on to the next book in the series, PADDY. I can’t wait!
I highly recommend reading this book if you’re a lover of interracial romance, possessive morally gray men, and a family that does any and everything to protect one of their own. I cannot say enough good things about this book.
Ramani Rose, you have yourself a new satisfied reader and follower! Well done!
Happy reading!
What a debut! I’ll admit, this book had me at the blurb! If there is one thing I’m a sucker for, it’s historical romance. Throw in the Peaky Blinder effect, and you have definite potential for a five-star hit on your hands.
CILLIAN is a 5-Star hitter!
Cillian Sullivan is a man who spent the last three years in prison after being convicted of a murder. His brothers, The Sullivan Boys are part of a powerful crime family in Boston. They manage to get Cillian released from prison after getting the main witness to recant their statement. At first, Cillian is relieved and grateful. That’s until he learns he has to marry as a brokered part of his release. On his release day he finds out the person he is to marry is a Black woman, a rare occurrence given the period the story takes place in. Cillian is NOT happy. Until he sees her for the first time and is smitten. But what happens when he finds out that the woman he is set to marry is the very witness that put him in jail in the first place?
Enter: Queenie, the witness. She is forced by her family to make this union for the good of her family’s shady business. She is terrified of Cillian, having witnessed his violent nature. What Queenie doesn’t count on is developing feelings for her new husband in spite of his brutality. Will these two find common ground in not only their marriage but also a society divided by race and ethnicity?
I went into this knowing that there may be language that would be uncomfortable. But given the time period which the story is set, anything outside of what I’d read would be unrealistic. Ramani Rose took a challenging topic of race relations, caste systems, and cultural differences and weaved such a brilliant tale of romance around two people from opposite ends of the spectrum. Cillian and Queenie found a common ground in past trauma, personal family struggles, and the difference in social relations in their own communities. The end result is the reader witnessing their true and unapologetic love for one another.
This book is spicy! So there is definitely a lot going on concerning the notorious “Sullivan Curse” that I cannot wait to read more about in future books! I am hooked on this author and I’m moving on to the next book in the series, PADDY. I can’t wait!
I highly recommend reading this book if you’re a lover of interracial romance, possessive morally gray men, and a family that does any and everything to protect one of their own. I cannot say enough good things about this book.
Ramani Rose, you have yourself a new satisfied reader and follower! Well done!
Happy reading!
August 27, 2024
This was such a beautiful story. It’s surrounds an interracial couple in a historical time period. I am uncertain as to the exact time in history, but it seemed as though segregation had just ended.
At the start of the story, Cillian is just getting out of prison for murder. A marriage is arranged between Cillian and Queenie, a black girl who was the witness to put him in prison. Their story unfolds with tension and resentment to start but then morphs into something absolutely delectable.
Queenie and Cillian quickly realize there are more similarities between them as husband and wife than what racial tensions would dictate. The love between them began as a small ember and then ignites into a roaring flame. The author’s use of the historical time period and role of segregation was interesting. I’m not overly fond of historical romance, however, I appreciate how the time period created another layer to the story.
The spice levels of this book were off the charts. It was everything a reader could hope for and more. Additionally, I really enjoyed the interplay between Queenie and the Irish family. Queenie, while not an advocate of violence or arguing is always willing to stand up for herself. Watching cultures blend together and the acceptance finally take over was lovely.
The only criticism I have is that the more violent mafia aspect of the book was missing. I am used to the fictional mob bosses, in this genre, being more ruthless and violent. The story felt more on the side of a light mafia romance. Overall a great read and it was so refreshing to see an interracial couple in this genre.
At the start of the story, Cillian is just getting out of prison for murder. A marriage is arranged between Cillian and Queenie, a black girl who was the witness to put him in prison. Their story unfolds with tension and resentment to start but then morphs into something absolutely delectable.
Queenie and Cillian quickly realize there are more similarities between them as husband and wife than what racial tensions would dictate. The love between them began as a small ember and then ignites into a roaring flame. The author’s use of the historical time period and role of segregation was interesting. I’m not overly fond of historical romance, however, I appreciate how the time period created another layer to the story.
The spice levels of this book were off the charts. It was everything a reader could hope for and more. Additionally, I really enjoyed the interplay between Queenie and the Irish family. Queenie, while not an advocate of violence or arguing is always willing to stand up for herself. Watching cultures blend together and the acceptance finally take over was lovely.
The only criticism I have is that the more violent mafia aspect of the book was missing. I am used to the fictional mob bosses, in this genre, being more ruthless and violent. The story felt more on the side of a light mafia romance. Overall a great read and it was so refreshing to see an interracial couple in this genre.
August 27, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and am really glad the Author took the time to warn me about the triggers in this book, which by the way had no affect on the outcome of the story or did not deter me from reading it. This story is set at a time in Boston when interracial relationships were not common and often frowned upon. This is a story about two completely different individuals from two different races, it is a fast paced love story with plenty of steam throughout the whole book! Cillian and Queenie may have been forced into an arranged marriage but as it turns out they end up falling in love with each other anyway, which surprised the older brothers. Their relationship builds on as the story progresses and there is a little bit of Mafia action towards the end of the story. The Author did a great job in writing this and it was very descriptive. It was a page turner from the beginning. I can’t wait for the next book in the series, which is Cillian’s brother Paddy’s story. I would recommend this book to fans of the Author and to those that like Irish mafia romance stories with more romance and steam in them. I was gifted an ARC by the Author but I am voluntarily leaving my own opinion in this review.
September 5, 2024
OUTSTANDING DEBUT!!!!
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
For this to be a debut novel, author Ramani Rose knocked it out of the park! I absolutely loved this book and devoured it in one sitting. The story takes place in Boston in the 1940s, so there is racial tension throughout the story from outsiders. There are cultural differences between the two main characters with Queenie being a southern black woman and Cillian being Irish. Cillian is a quick tempered hot head but loyal and very protective of family. Queenie may be a shy church girl, but she is head strong and no pushover. Their marriage gets off to a rocky start in the beginning, but they quickly MELT for one another and into each other. The chemistry between the two is intense and practically bleeds off the page. I loved how dedicated they both were to understanding and learning each other’s cultures and differences and how deeply they trusted each other. This was a super spicy read and the spicy scenes were top-tier. There are some dark parts that may be uncomfortable to read that deal with the main characters’ pasts, so proceed with caution. Other than that, the only negative thing I think of is that I have to wait for the next book in the series. 10/10 definitely recommend!
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
For this to be a debut novel, author Ramani Rose knocked it out of the park! I absolutely loved this book and devoured it in one sitting. The story takes place in Boston in the 1940s, so there is racial tension throughout the story from outsiders. There are cultural differences between the two main characters with Queenie being a southern black woman and Cillian being Irish. Cillian is a quick tempered hot head but loyal and very protective of family. Queenie may be a shy church girl, but she is head strong and no pushover. Their marriage gets off to a rocky start in the beginning, but they quickly MELT for one another and into each other. The chemistry between the two is intense and practically bleeds off the page. I loved how dedicated they both were to understanding and learning each other’s cultures and differences and how deeply they trusted each other. This was a super spicy read and the spicy scenes were top-tier. There are some dark parts that may be uncomfortable to read that deal with the main characters’ pasts, so proceed with caution. Other than that, the only negative thing I think of is that I have to wait for the next book in the series. 10/10 definitely recommend!
September 7, 2024
I received an advanced reader copy of Cillian and I absolutely loved this story!
Talk about spice, I wasn't expecting that level of heat! 🔥🔥
Queenie and Cillian were forced into an arranged marriage and being from different cultures and backgrounds only made for a more interesting dynamic. I really enjoyed going through the learning curves, angst, smut and drama with these two.
Cillian is definitely an alpha, touch her and I'll burn the world down, only nice to her MMC lol & I loved every bit of it too!
Queenie being the shy, quiet church girl that she is, did annoy me a few times but as the books went on we get to see her come out of her shell and that's in large part to her husband.
The love and passion between Queenie and Cillian once they started opening up to each other and better understanding the other's culture was great to see.
Although the book is set in the 40s/50s it doesn't include a lot of racial slurs that you would expect when set in that time period. However the author did a good job of including TW and a disclaimer that this book is a historical fantasy, if you will.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book as this was a new to me author and I look forward to the rest of the series.
Talk about spice, I wasn't expecting that level of heat! 🔥🔥
Queenie and Cillian were forced into an arranged marriage and being from different cultures and backgrounds only made for a more interesting dynamic. I really enjoyed going through the learning curves, angst, smut and drama with these two.
Cillian is definitely an alpha, touch her and I'll burn the world down, only nice to her MMC lol & I loved every bit of it too!
Queenie being the shy, quiet church girl that she is, did annoy me a few times but as the books went on we get to see her come out of her shell and that's in large part to her husband.
The love and passion between Queenie and Cillian once they started opening up to each other and better understanding the other's culture was great to see.
Although the book is set in the 40s/50s it doesn't include a lot of racial slurs that you would expect when set in that time period. However the author did a good job of including TW and a disclaimer that this book is a historical fantasy, if you will.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book as this was a new to me author and I look forward to the rest of the series.
March 15, 2025
.
I actually liked the fact that although fierce and a mobster, and the fact that he literally got his ass beat his entire life, Cillian was so lovable and so freaking sweet and caring to Queenie. From this story I couldn't stand any of his brothers. I felt they were fucking asshole to let him blindly walk into a marriage and not telling him to the very last moment. It's not cute the way they pick on him. I wish he had a chance to kill his father and the nasty disgusting bitch that raped and molested him as an 8 year old. Idk why the author felt the need to put in that he went back when he was older to sleep with the same child molester. It was already sickening what she did to him as a kid. I guess she wanted it for aomd shock value. It was just disgusting. I'm glad that Cillian killed the man who sexually abused Queenie for years although she acted a bit of an asshole when she found out. But the code which Cillian lives by is vastly different from hers so I can understand that. And I wish she hadn't of been the one that turned him in for killing the child molester priest but I guess they'd of never crossed paths otherwise.
I actually liked the fact that although fierce and a mobster, and the fact that he literally got his ass beat his entire life, Cillian was so lovable and so freaking sweet and caring to Queenie. From this story I couldn't stand any of his brothers. I felt they were fucking asshole to let him blindly walk into a marriage and not telling him to the very last moment. It's not cute the way they pick on him. I wish he had a chance to kill his father and the nasty disgusting bitch that raped and molested him as an 8 year old. Idk why the author felt the need to put in that he went back when he was older to sleep with the same child molester. It was already sickening what she did to him as a kid. I guess she wanted it for aomd shock value. It was just disgusting. I'm glad that Cillian killed the man who sexually abused Queenie for years although she acted a bit of an asshole when she found out. But the code which Cillian lives by is vastly different from hers so I can understand that. And I wish she hadn't of been the one that turned him in for killing the child molester priest but I guess they'd of never crossed paths otherwise.
May 13, 2025
Not bad...
This first book had ALOT of promise but I'm my opinion didn't fully deliver. Aside from the grammar flaws ( i.e. Tense and punctuation, minor typos) which made it a bit confusing to know who was talking. The historical time period was hard to visualize because certain things were discussed that weren't relevant ( twist outs, Fun Dip candy) at that time of the... 1950's?
The steamy sex interludes were very good ( and boy were they alot! )Thank you very much!
But they weren't like Fifty shaded of grey hot, just slightly above vanilla sex.
What is missing is if he is a gangster were is the conflict, danger, etc.
That would add to the couple being pushed together outside of us against the world with a total stranger, and race. They went from being total strangers, married to in bed with each other within two days?! Kinda unbelievable to me considering the time period, and backgrounds of the couple.
I eill say I'm looking forward to read more and see this author develop her writing , because these are great charectors with wonderful stories to tell.
This first book had ALOT of promise but I'm my opinion didn't fully deliver. Aside from the grammar flaws ( i.e. Tense and punctuation, minor typos) which made it a bit confusing to know who was talking. The historical time period was hard to visualize because certain things were discussed that weren't relevant ( twist outs, Fun Dip candy) at that time of the... 1950's?
The steamy sex interludes were very good ( and boy were they alot! )Thank you very much!
But they weren't like Fifty shaded of grey hot, just slightly above vanilla sex.
What is missing is if he is a gangster were is the conflict, danger, etc.
That would add to the couple being pushed together outside of us against the world with a total stranger, and race. They went from being total strangers, married to in bed with each other within two days?! Kinda unbelievable to me considering the time period, and backgrounds of the couple.
I eill say I'm looking forward to read more and see this author develop her writing , because these are great charectors with wonderful stories to tell.
August 21, 2024
Page turner!!
If you saw this as a recommendation, I advise you to 1 click and read immediately. You won't regret it!. From the start of page one I could not put this book down. I have not slept peacefully until I was finished. Cillian is a 10 star read about a time when marriages were made by fathers and handshakes that were to benefit both families. Cillian, a 1st generation Irish American, is a gangster and is betrothed to marry queenie, a beautiful young black woman who was responsible for him being imprisoned for a crime he committed. Forced by his three brothers into the arraignment to get his immediate freedom, he was unexpectedly immediately attracted to his wife when he saw her at the altar. The rawness of the character and all his family gangster was not dimmed by this author for which I love. The smut was heavy throughout the book. I'm talking about the ultimate dark romance girlie shopping list 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶. I can't wait to see more from the Sullivan brothers. Chefs kiss for this series.
If you saw this as a recommendation, I advise you to 1 click and read immediately. You won't regret it!. From the start of page one I could not put this book down. I have not slept peacefully until I was finished. Cillian is a 10 star read about a time when marriages were made by fathers and handshakes that were to benefit both families. Cillian, a 1st generation Irish American, is a gangster and is betrothed to marry queenie, a beautiful young black woman who was responsible for him being imprisoned for a crime he committed. Forced by his three brothers into the arraignment to get his immediate freedom, he was unexpectedly immediately attracted to his wife when he saw her at the altar. The rawness of the character and all his family gangster was not dimmed by this author for which I love. The smut was heavy throughout the book. I'm talking about the ultimate dark romance girlie shopping list 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶. I can't wait to see more from the Sullivan brothers. Chefs kiss for this series.
August 31, 2024
Hmm
I don't participate in the BDSM scene, so getting consent before nonconsensual sex seems off to me. At the same time great for a reader like me who is not a big fan of dark romances. Then why did I decide to read this book? Because the author mentioned in a book group that she wrote a scene where the male lead helped the female lead with her hair. And I was not disappointed. Not with the promised scene nor with the entire book.
This is lighter on the dark romance side. So a great fit for me. I also liked how the author delved into the challenges, on both sides, of being in an interracial marriage. Also the importance of valuing each other's culture and willingness to talk through spouses' blind spots or differing thought patterns.
I loved the chemistry between the leads. The only thing that was off for me was the male lead's mindset and words at times. There were moments when I felt like an enlightened man from today had traveled to the 1940s and took the male lead place. As well as my lack of knowledge of BDSM. Was the culture like that during the 1940s?
I don't participate in the BDSM scene, so getting consent before nonconsensual sex seems off to me. At the same time great for a reader like me who is not a big fan of dark romances. Then why did I decide to read this book? Because the author mentioned in a book group that she wrote a scene where the male lead helped the female lead with her hair. And I was not disappointed. Not with the promised scene nor with the entire book.
This is lighter on the dark romance side. So a great fit for me. I also liked how the author delved into the challenges, on both sides, of being in an interracial marriage. Also the importance of valuing each other's culture and willingness to talk through spouses' blind spots or differing thought patterns.
I loved the chemistry between the leads. The only thing that was off for me was the male lead's mindset and words at times. There were moments when I felt like an enlightened man from today had traveled to the 1940s and took the male lead place. As well as my lack of knowledge of BDSM. Was the culture like that during the 1940s?
April 20, 2025
This book was average for me, not too bad and not too good.
The plot was interesting. It was nice reading a book in a different time period as well and I felt that the author did a decent job at world-building. It was nice seeing the MCs interact with each other and begin to understand their differences and correct their misconceptions of each other culturally or otherwise.
However, some themes of this story just felt awkward for me. One being their sexual relationship, Queenie goes from not indenting to have that sort of intimacy with Cillian to switching almost instantly because of one action, it felt anti-climatic. Although there were sweet moments it felt more like lust and infatuation to me. I do think that Cillian's preference for BDSM and Queenie understanding more about it was handled well. But the Sullivan's calling their sexual preferences a Sullivan curse was kind of cringe, I mean if they consider it a curse then should find help to tamper said curse not feed into it.
It was a decent enough book and I will most likely read the other brothers instalments.
The plot was interesting. It was nice reading a book in a different time period as well and I felt that the author did a decent job at world-building. It was nice seeing the MCs interact with each other and begin to understand their differences and correct their misconceptions of each other culturally or otherwise.
However, some themes of this story just felt awkward for me. One being their sexual relationship, Queenie goes from not indenting to have that sort of intimacy with Cillian to switching almost instantly because of one action, it felt anti-climatic. Although there were sweet moments it felt more like lust and infatuation to me. I do think that Cillian's preference for BDSM and Queenie understanding more about it was handled well. But the Sullivan's calling their sexual preferences a Sullivan curse was kind of cringe, I mean if they consider it a curse then should find help to tamper said curse not feed into it.
It was a decent enough book and I will most likely read the other brothers instalments.
December 22, 2024
Cillian the Lovable Soundrel⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow!!! I loved this 📕way more than I thought I would😍IR Alternative history books are more difficult to mentally navigate, but this ✍🏼skillfully leads you to suspend belief & revel in the romantic fantasy that is the enigmatic Cillian Sullivan & his cinnamon roll Queenie🥳I loved this story so much I purchased it at 60% while reading it via my KU; as I will be reading it again! The author handled the racism scenes with realism quite well 🙌🏽. Cillian is super nova 🔥🔥🔥; a total Dom in the BR & a badass, unrepentant, merciless, unaliver, when anyone dares come for his siblings or his wife. The cabin scene with Queenie was 🥵🥵🥵& the 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ was spicing !!! Check the TWs because if you’re a pearl clutcher, this book is def not for you, so just bypass!!! The epilogue was the chef’s 💋& I will be reading the other Sullivan brothers’ 📚🎄🍷
Wow!!! I loved this 📕way more than I thought I would😍IR Alternative history books are more difficult to mentally navigate, but this ✍🏼skillfully leads you to suspend belief & revel in the romantic fantasy that is the enigmatic Cillian Sullivan & his cinnamon roll Queenie🥳I loved this story so much I purchased it at 60% while reading it via my KU; as I will be reading it again! The author handled the racism scenes with realism quite well 🙌🏽. Cillian is super nova 🔥🔥🔥; a total Dom in the BR & a badass, unrepentant, merciless, unaliver, when anyone dares come for his siblings or his wife. The cabin scene with Queenie was 🥵🥵🥵& the 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ was spicing !!! Check the TWs because if you’re a pearl clutcher, this book is def not for you, so just bypass!!! The epilogue was the chef’s 💋& I will be reading the other Sullivan brothers’ 📚🎄🍷
September 21, 2025
"If you have to beat someone into loving certain people, then you weren't meant to be attracted to just one thing."
4.5 ⭐
Tropes:
Irish Mafia
Interracial romance
Arranged marriage
Beauty and the Beast parallels
Morally grey MMC who will burn the world for his FMC
Cillian is the Irish gangster everyone fears—the monster Queenie once testified against. Years later, fate (and her father’s ambition) binds them in an arranged marriage that neither of them should want, but both can’t resist. With secrets looming between them, their chemistry crackles in a story that blends history, heat, and heart.
I can’t believe I waited so long to review this! I read Cillian back in February and it was my first Ramani Rose novel—safe to say I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m already eager for Paddy’s story and more of the Sullivan scoundrels.
If you like dangerous men, fierce women, and an unapologetically dramatic love story, this debut is a ride worth taking.
4.5 ⭐
Tropes:
Irish Mafia
Interracial romance
Arranged marriage
Beauty and the Beast parallels
Morally grey MMC who will burn the world for his FMC
Cillian is the Irish gangster everyone fears—the monster Queenie once testified against. Years later, fate (and her father’s ambition) binds them in an arranged marriage that neither of them should want, but both can’t resist. With secrets looming between them, their chemistry crackles in a story that blends history, heat, and heart.
I can’t believe I waited so long to review this! I read Cillian back in February and it was my first Ramani Rose novel—safe to say I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m already eager for Paddy’s story and more of the Sullivan scoundrels.
If you like dangerous men, fierce women, and an unapologetically dramatic love story, this debut is a ride worth taking.
September 10, 2024
Good
I enjoyed this book. Cillian and Elizabeth came together under the most unlikely and almost scary way. She was the reason he was in prison and neither of them knew it prior to the marriage. Historical facts and details aside I could not remember what year this was set in....maybe it was stated and I didn't pay attention. I liked how he protected, and provided before he even realized that he loved her. He was big on this is my WIFE. There are a lot of men who don't get that concept. Queenie was a total sweetheart. I wish there was more details describing her facial features, his as well. I also wish that there was more interaction with her family so that we could see the way Cillian dealt with them. Overall this was a really good book. I look forward to the next one.
I enjoyed this book. Cillian and Elizabeth came together under the most unlikely and almost scary way. She was the reason he was in prison and neither of them knew it prior to the marriage. Historical facts and details aside I could not remember what year this was set in....maybe it was stated and I didn't pay attention. I liked how he protected, and provided before he even realized that he loved her. He was big on this is my WIFE. There are a lot of men who don't get that concept. Queenie was a total sweetheart. I wish there was more details describing her facial features, his as well. I also wish that there was more interaction with her family so that we could see the way Cillian dealt with them. Overall this was a really good book. I look forward to the next one.
August 19, 2024
Cillian was amazing! It was hard to put this book down. The characters were amazing and the story held my attention. I loved that this is a dark romance set in a different time period. This book has spice, action, romance, drama and did I mention spice? Queenie the FMC is gorgeous, educated, strong and is aware of herself and the limitations imposed on her because of her gender and her race, but she doesn’t let it hinder her and remains positive, which is very refreshing to see. Cillian the MMC is not your typical morally gray character I found him very funny and easy to love and I cheered for him the entire time he is the epitome of the handsome gangster. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next book in the series to be released.
March 8, 2025
🗣️ LISTEN, I don’t know what type of seasoning Ramani used but I devoured this book. So after meeting the incredibly funny Ramani during a Facebook event I was convinced to read her books. I mean hello, Peaky Blinders inspired? Yes I’m in!
This book was everything and then some. I absolutely adored Cillian and Queenie together. Their vulnerability and open discussion of past traumas made them a paragon of a healthy relationship. Even though they had a rocky start, it wasn’t long until they were head over heels for one another. And baby…the way that man talks her through it…😮💨 I’m not even ashamed to say I went back and reread some scenes. Ramani nailed the sensitive topics with care and grace. I am hooked and will absolutely be starting book 2 tonight
This book was everything and then some. I absolutely adored Cillian and Queenie together. Their vulnerability and open discussion of past traumas made them a paragon of a healthy relationship. Even though they had a rocky start, it wasn’t long until they were head over heels for one another. And baby…the way that man talks her through it…😮💨 I’m not even ashamed to say I went back and reread some scenes. Ramani nailed the sensitive topics with care and grace. I am hooked and will absolutely be starting book 2 tonight
August 26, 2024
I fell in love with cillian and queenie. I really enjoyed the pace of the book, the irish mmc/black fmc, and the historical setting. I really loved this book and I really recommend it!
Ps: Book 2 in this series is all ready on my tbr-list 👀
If you love:
🔸Dark Romance
🔸Enemies To Lovers
🔸Touch her and die
🔸Mafia Romance
🔸historical time
Genre/Type: Emotional Adult Romance 18+
Pages: 441 (epub)
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Spice: 4 ⭐️
Series or Stand Alone: series ( book 1 in the Sullivan scoundrels series)
Tropes or Themes: takes place in the 1940’s ,irish hero/ Black heroine, Dual pov, Forced/arranged marriage, Touch her and die vibes, Dark irish Mafia romance,
PS. Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
Ps: Book 2 in this series is all ready on my tbr-list 👀
If you love:
🔸Dark Romance
🔸Enemies To Lovers
🔸Touch her and die
🔸Mafia Romance
🔸historical time
Genre/Type: Emotional Adult Romance 18+
Pages: 441 (epub)
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Spice: 4 ⭐️
Series or Stand Alone: series ( book 1 in the Sullivan scoundrels series)
Tropes or Themes: takes place in the 1940’s ,irish hero/ Black heroine, Dual pov, Forced/arranged marriage, Touch her and die vibes, Dark irish Mafia romance,
PS. Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
August 29, 2024
This was a curve ball that I wasn't expecting. If you are into dark themes, then this is a book for you. Especially towards the end. The story was intricately written and flowed easily. It was hard to put down because I wanted to know what happened next.
It was nice to get both the Irish and black experience. It is hard to balance the realities of both sides. I am not educated in Irish culture, but you were able to get a glimpse into their world. Cillian is a good man with a twisted side while his chort Queenie is Southern raised church girl. Even though they are on opposite sides, they truly compliment each other as they tackle obstacles of their new life together.
It was nice to get both the Irish and black experience. It is hard to balance the realities of both sides. I am not educated in Irish culture, but you were able to get a glimpse into their world. Cillian is a good man with a twisted side while his chort Queenie is Southern raised church girl. Even though they are on opposite sides, they truly compliment each other as they tackle obstacles of their new life together.
August 31, 2024
First time reading this author and I was not disappointed. Cillian, this dark mafia romance was a dark and nasty as they come and was a pleasant surprise considering some of the dubious subject matter that the author tackled.
With both Cillian and Queenie’s troubled backgrounds I was happy they found each other though it was initially by force. The love and trust that quickly developed between them was honest and real. I liked that they were always candid with each other and I would happily read another book featuring these two.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
With both Cillian and Queenie’s troubled backgrounds I was happy they found each other though it was initially by force. The love and trust that quickly developed between them was honest and real. I liked that they were always candid with each other and I would happily read another book featuring these two.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2024
GREAT introduction to the Sullivan clan! (ARC)
I enjoyed Cillian & Queenie’s story, and it’s the 1st time I’ve read a historical IR book and it didn’t disappoint.
They both fell in love fast and it wasn’t as dark as I thought it would be, or what I’ve read in the past, but I enjoyed it more because of Cillian easing Queenie in, with love & care, into his “dark” side.
Also, since I’m always down for gangster behavior, the slaughter Cillian gave to get back his wife was on point!
I’m looking forward to the other brother’s stories, and I have a feeling RR will up the ante in darkness that will make this series unforgettable.
I enjoyed Cillian & Queenie’s story, and it’s the 1st time I’ve read a historical IR book and it didn’t disappoint.
They both fell in love fast and it wasn’t as dark as I thought it would be, or what I’ve read in the past, but I enjoyed it more because of Cillian easing Queenie in, with love & care, into his “dark” side.
Also, since I’m always down for gangster behavior, the slaughter Cillian gave to get back his wife was on point!
I’m looking forward to the other brother’s stories, and I have a feeling RR will up the ante in darkness that will make this series unforgettable.
February 21, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised how much I truly enjoyed this book! I went in completely blind only knowing it was going to be a mafia type book and the author was black. I was exploring new authors for BHM. This book is a great combination of smut and plot. I did find Queenie pretty naive, especially for this time period. Like I get not liking violence and all that but miss girl, why would you expect anyone to not constantly bring up you have a white IRISH husband? She was too nice, I would've been let Cillian have killed those guys! I enjoyed their relationship and loved the family dynamic between Cillian and his siblings. I can't wait to read the other books!
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