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My days and nights were spent running successful legal and illegal businesses. As the mafia boss of East Dremest, I had a reputation to uphold. Falling for two men was a weakness I didn’t want.

The people I loved before were no longer above ground. Circumstances arose and they were a risk I had to extinguish. Nothing good came from me loving another. I didn’t want to do so again.

Trying to resist Vail and Hartley was useless. Once I had them close, letting them go was impossible.

They were mine and I’d show them what it meant to be so.

I had to keep my lives separate. They didn’t need to see the blood on my hands or the weapons I kept. They didn’t need to witness the violence.

But I wasn’t the only one with a past.

Their lives were mine to protect. Their hearts were mine to hold. I would do anything in my power to keep them safe.

If only it were that easy. If only theirs weren’t the only hearts in play.

Jordan is an MMM steamy contemporary romance and book one in the East Dremest Mafia series. It features a man who doesn’t want to fall in love again, an incredibly sweet chef, and a fashion designer trying to climb his way back from the bottom. There is a best friend’s brother, an age gap, first love, hurt/comfort, and a sinful mafia boss. This book ends on a cliffhanger and will continue in book two, Vail.

Please look inside for the content warnings.

284 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 7, 2024

354 people are currently reading
405 people want to read

About the author

Michelle Dare

81 books1,503 followers
Michelle Dare is a USA Today Bestselling Author. Her stories range from sweet to sinful and from paranormal to contemporary. There aren’t enough hours in the day for her to write all the story ideas in her head. When not writing or reading, she’s a wife and mom living in eastern Pennsylvania. One day she hopes to be writing from a beach where she will never have to see snow or be cold again.

https://www.michelledare.com/links

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Barbara.
397 reviews25 followers
dnf
November 18, 2025
DNF @ 5%

Szybko poszło, ale ten styl pisania kompletnie mi nie odpowiada. Niby mamy czuć wiele, ale dziwnie zbudowane zdania zdecydowanie to utrudniały.

Plus, co ważniejsze, w opisie na Amazonie nie widziałam, że trzeba znać inne książki z uniwersum. Niby na początku jest drzewo genealogiczne i spis postaci, ale ich przedstawienie w prologu było tragiczne. TO jest XY, chłopak mojego syna, a to YX, kuzyn chłopaka mojego syna. I weź tu pamiętaj wszystkie osoby, z którymi nie masz żadnej więzi.

Może kiedyś wrócę, ale wątpię.
Profile Image for Siân PJsAndBooks.
619 reviews14 followers
June 4, 2024
THOUGHTS

Thank You, Michelle Dare & @booksprout for my eARC.

Jordan is the first book in the East Dreamest Mafia series. Dreamest and some of these characters have featured in other series by Michelle Dare. I would strongly recommend reading these series as Jordan does feature spoilers.

I love how we learnt more about the Mafia Boss Jordan, whom I've always wanted to learn more about since he first appeared. This story had me griped and I nearly screamed when the book finished. I need book 2 Vail ASAP.

Things I Loved
🖤 Multi POV
🖤 MMM Romance
🖤 Age Gap
🖤 Mafia Boss
🖤 Brothers Best Friend
Profile Image for Bronwyn.
1,480 reviews38 followers
nope-nope-or-nah
July 1, 2025
Picked this up in KU because it sounded good. Apparently there’s another series (or multiple ones, I have no idea) that come before this. The graphic of how everyone was related was confusing and the list of characters and their connection to each other was overwhelming. So I decided not to even attempt it and returned it to KU. Congratulations author for making something feel too complex for someone to even start your books. No thanks.
Profile Image for Mags.
3,055 reviews38 followers
September 29, 2025
4.25⭐️

I initially picked up "Jordan" on Kindle Unlimited, not realising that it was part of a trilogy or a larger series. This was explained at the beginning of the book, but to be honest, I ignored the graphic because it confused me, so I just dove right into the story.

And I enjoyed it a lot.

As Jordan has to kill the man he loves, which leaves him determined never to fall for anyone again. Instead, he focuses on his business and his son, with whom he doesn’t have the best relationship.

However, everything changes when Jordan meets Hartley, a down-on-his-luck designer, and Vail, a part-time chef who has escaped an abusive relationship. But Jordan is attracted to both of them and wants to keep them safe and care for them in any way possible.

Only he isn’t sure he can choose between them, but fortunately, he doesn’t have to. As Vail and Hartley know each other and have a connection that they are all eager to explore.

But just as their romance begins to blossom, the police come calling because Vail’s ex has disappeared, and Jordan becomes the prime suspect.

And with danger, spicy moments, and intriguing characters, this was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to reading Vail and Hartley's stories next!
Profile Image for Sophie Reads Stories.
287 reviews
May 31, 2024
I loved that we finally get to see Jordan in his own words and world!

He was briefly present in Three Ties and Ruined & Relinquished, but his presence could always be felt, and to have a whole book focusing on him was a treat.

I really enjoyed reading Jordan, Vail and Hartley's story - the three men are so different, but they complement each other beautifully. I loved that Vail and Hartley gave Jordan the push back he needs in his relationships.

Note: the book is a HFN and ends on a cliffhanger.
Profile Image for Katy.
1,210 reviews110 followers
December 12, 2025
(I received an ARC for this book)

This book can not be read as a standalone, and ends on a cliffhanger!

Trigger Warnings include:
death of a loved one, descriptive violence including torture and death, human/drug/gun trafficking, off-page rape, off-page domestic abuse, off-page suicide

The darling mafia boss we’ve come to know and love throughout the rest of the books set in Dremest is finally getting his moment to shine! And shine he did! I KNEW Jordan had so much more to him than just the vicious mafia Daddy he appears to be! I love that he thinks that he has a weakness, but what he’s actually suffering from is having a heart. And I loved him for it. Jordan is very much in touch with his emotions, that’s never the issue. Allowing himself to truly fulfill his own heart and happiness is where he struggles. He locked up his heart, but he was never expecting Vail and Hartley. And he definitely wasn’t expecting them to come in and bulldoze through his defenses instantly! When our Big Bad Mafia Man gets bitten by the guilt bug, he stops fighting himself and lets Vail and Hartley all the way in. They brought light and humor into his life. Toss in their need to take care of and protect one another and everyone is a goner for everyone (including myself). Jordan wanted to give them both the love and life they deserved. And they want to give that right back to him, tenfold. I am SO glad that each of these men are going to be getting their “own” book. Mostly because I’m greedy and need as much time with them as possible! I love spending time in this world! Getting to enjoy all of these characters, getting to enjoy them after getting so attached!

My Favorite Quotes:
• “It doesn’t matter where you rest your head at night. What matters is how high you hold it when you’re awake.”
• “I will kill for them without hesitation.”
• “I won’t apologize for who I am, but I will for you seeing it.”
• “Sweet words will get you everywhere.”
• “I shouldn’t go near either of you, yet I can’t seem to f!cking help myself. You’re both here and I never want to let you go. I don’t know what it means, if there’s anywhere for us to go, but don’t leave.”
• “I’m letting you in. Once you’re there, I won’t be able to let you go, not without ripping my heart out in the process.”
• “Out here, in my home, anywhere except my bed, we’ll have a balance. We’re equals. I don’t want to tame you. I want you to give me every part of you.”
• “I won’t accept any less than all of you.”
• “You’re made to be cherished, not harmed.” “Then show me what it means to be cherished by you.”
• “I’m pretty sure we skipped about ten steps.” “There’s only one step. The ground to the pedestal I’ll elevate you onto. I don’t do things lightly.”
• “Your orgasm, your cum, they’re mine. You will come for me when I tell you to. You won’t stop, you won’t let go until I’m ready for you to. And don’t keep those sweet whimpers to yourself. I want to hear them all.”
• “You’re mine. So f!cking mine.”

7/10 Dirty Birdy
8/10 Age Gap
4/10 Brother’s BFF
6/10 Friends to Lovers
7/10 Mafia Romance
4/10 Workplace
8/10 Series

This is my review for Vail
This is my review for Hartley
This is my review for Barrett
This is my review for Lane
This is my review for Sheldon
Profile Image for Jessie J melka.
123 reviews12 followers
June 4, 2024
{JORDAN}
Arc review by Jessie Melka
__________•__________

I have read been wanting to read vail’s story since the first time he was introduced he is such a lovely character and he just gave me a good vibe from the start

To be honest, I didn’t really feel the chemistry in the love interest I don’t know if it was just me, but I feel it was a bit rushed and I didn’t really like that but I do think they compliment each other well and they will be good for each other in the long run

I did so not expect to be left on such a huge cliffhanger like I did feel the book was a bit rushed I had no idea that it was going to be a series. I went into it blind I probably shouldn’t have but I never DNF any books but it was hard to get through so I would recommend knowing what you are going into

These people are way too comfortable talking, I really like Michelle’s books and writing style but this was sooo unrealistic I laughed so hard thinking about how they just put out their secrets to anyone but the popo’s

I think this was way too unproblematic for 34 chapters there was barely any plot until the end which indicated that there will be another book which was probably common knowledge but I was just stupid hehe

“I needed a fucking chart to connect all the people in their circle.”- jordan

Haha jordan is seriously funny but I have to agree with Jordan. I’m glad I least got that chart and he didn’t
I actually feel like most of the characters should’ve been comedians they were just overall funny and spontaneous with their humour

I really liked Hartley but lover boy was way too trusting

Unfortunately, I had to give this book 3 stars. I was really close to giving it 2, but the ending did wonders i like that and I am kind of obsessed and I need to know what heaven snakes I cannot wait for the next book

🪡possessive mafia boss
🍲age gap
🪡hurt/comfort
🍲best frind’s brother
🪡part 1 of 3
__________•__________
Profile Image for Amanda.
146 reviews
May 19, 2025
I love a good Mafia romance - but this one did not hit the spot for me. The characters on their own were interesting but there was really nothing bringing them together for me other than instalust. I felt no connection or chemistry between them and found myself skimming a lot of this book. This book ends in a cliff hanger and I did attempt to read book through but ended up DNFing it because it read much of the same way. I also didn't realize that this was interconnected with another one of Dare's series so I felt completely lost on some of the characters.
Profile Image for Alicia Meyer.
1,503 reviews2 followers
June 11, 2024
Part 1

I struggled with this book and started skimming it around 60% in. Having read a decent amount of mafia books this was just wasn’t as detailed or good. I didn’t have a change in emotion good or bad. The romance between the 3 men was more like an insta-love scenario and I just didn’t buy it. I would give this a solid 2.5 I don’t know if I will read the next one up because I just don’t care. We will see though.
Profile Image for Cie.
Author 9 books13 followers
March 2, 2025
DNF at 47%

I thought the plot was great, but I just couldn’t get over the blunt disjointed writing that hardly ever flowed. I liked the idea of the characters, but I was almost halfway through the book and felt like I had no real understanding or connection to the main character, Jordan.

I’ve read one other of Dare’s books and enjoyed it, but this one was a miss for me.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
80 reviews
January 31, 2025
Unfortunately, I had to DNF this book. While it's not a poorly written story, I found it difficult to connect with and ultimately lost interest. I've enjoyed other works by this author, so this one was likely just not the right fit for me.
Profile Image for Robert Fontenot.
2,085 reviews31 followers
August 31, 2025
This is listed as book one of six but it follows an untold number of previous volumes and is steeped in so much lore and backstory that it is almost impenetrable for the uninitiated. The staccato writing style only further distances the reader. I’m not into it.
675 reviews18 followers
June 1, 2024
rdan by Michelle Dare is the first book in her East Dremest Mafia series. I suggest that you read her Three Ties series first to understand what has come before this book and also for the reoccurring characters in it. Jordan Altair Sr. is the 60 year old mafia boss of East Dremest, Pennsylvania. His power is absolute and he has his fingers in both legal and illegal businesses and enjoys killing anyone who challenges him or doesn’t follow his orders. He surrounds himself with the best of the best, especially with his and his family’s security, and is constantly on edge looking for anyone or anything that could hurt them. His one weakness is his family and how much he wants to protect them, especially his son, JJ Altair Jr., and while he hasn’t had the best dealings with him, he is working on it. He is also watching over his ex’s son Romeo. He doesn’t want to be in a loving relationship because the two times he was they ended in death and he worries that this will continue to happen. Hartley Weathers is a fashion designer who is down on his luck when his grandfather who raised him died and he is trying to pay back his debts. Luckily he has caught the eye of Jordan who wants him to make him a suit which he does. When they meet they both have feelings for each other but don’t act on them due to Hartley’s rules and Jordan not wanting to be in a relationship. Vail Ayers is a talented chef and works when needed at his brother-in-law’s club. He was abused by his ex, Gil, who is still trying to get at him, but Vail isn’t going to stand for being controlled any more. He overheard what Jordan was telling JJ about what happened with his mother and vows he won’t tell anyone about it, which Jordan believes. They also feel a spark between them but don’t act on it. Then Jordan gets the flu and Hartley catches it from him as does Vail when he brings him some soup and Jordan brings them all together at his house to recuperate. That’s when he discovers that Vail knows Hartley from when they were younger and Jordan realizes he wants both of them but felt that being with him meant death by his hands. The men know what Jordan’s job is and that he is a crime boss and a killer, but they also see the other sides of him and know they are supposed to be together. The more they are with each other, the more they want a true relationship and want to be accepted for who they are. This leads to some very hot love scenes, both one on one with Jordan and also altogether. They are very happy but then the cops, who really want to put Jordan away, show up and arrest him because Vail’s ex has disappeared and they think he had something to do with it. So the story ends on a cliffhanger and we will have to wait to see what happens next. I really enjoyed this darker story, as I have others by this author. Jordan is a true mafia boss with no remorse and enjoys killing when he needs to. He is also very protective and has a softer side, which he hates, but it leads him to find love with Hartley and Vail. Hartley is sweet and caring and longs to be protected and safe. Vail is trying to be his own man after being with his abusive ex and wants to control his own life, yet he likes being with Jordan who also takes care of him. There are many other characters from other books who make an appearance, especially JJ and Romeo and their men and help them see what is right in front of them. They also cause some comic relief by egging Jordan on. There are a lot of dark aspects to Jordan’s businesses and his life, but that is what is behind everything that happens. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like darker, angsty mafia stories about the ultimate boss who finds love with 2 men who see behind his façade to the real man he is. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.


1,696 reviews11 followers
June 7, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
I have enjoyed every one of Michelle Dare’s stories of the throuples set in both sides of the town of Dremest, Pennsylvania. West Dremest is controlled by the Dremest family, East Dremest by Jordan Altair Sr, mafia boss and legitimate businessman. Previous stories have detailed the 7 current throuples in town (3 partners in a relationship with each other) in the Three Ties and Ruined and Relinquished series. This one, the first book in the East Dremest Mafia series, sees Jordan Altair Sr. falling for Hartley Weathers, a designer and master tailor of clothing for Jordan, and Vail Ayers, a sometime chef at the club Untouchables. Reading the Three Ties series is not a requirement, but if you do, you will be better able to follow the vast, and complicated, cast of characters. There is a “family tree” diagram of sorts at the beginning, and a cast of characters too, but going in cold turkey can be pretty confusing. There are also flashbacks that help flesh out parts of the previous books that help explain motivations of our characters alluded to in previous books. It is complicated, but very engaging and interesting as you go along for the ride.

Jordan Sr. has not been in a relationship for many years, not since death of his wife and someone else he had loved who is also gone. When he meets Hartley as he is commissioning a new suit, something about the man piques his interest, leaving him wanting this man, physically and to know more about him. When Vail comes to his home to cater a dinner, he has the same reaction for this man, also, something very unexpected and uncharacteristic for him, as he doesn’t do relationships or get involved in feelings. Unable to get either out of his mind, an opportunity arises to get him closer to both. As things progress, fears and uncertainty are felt on all sides, and there are always threats where Jordan Sr is involved. Much of the book deals with the developing relationship between the three and the dynamic between them, always with the threats inherent in the mafia lifestyle. The book ends on a sort of HFN with the throuple’s relationship, but a cliffhanger in where it may go from here, all with parts of their pasts in play.

Fascinating and complex characters, great world building for the town of Dremest, events from each character’s past have an impact, and the mafia world in which Jordan lives is built well. It will be interesting to see what happens with this throuple when the second book in the series, Vail’s story, comes out later this year. Wish they could come out closer together, as I always have to reorient myself to the many characters involved. But, they are all great, interconnected, and hold my interest, so will just need to wait and see. Well worth the read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mary Forster.
738 reviews16 followers
June 11, 2024
First, I love Michelle Dare as an author, I have read almost of all her books and loved every single one of them. I'm so glad that she decided to write mm romance or even mm+. Read the trigger warnings and be warned that there is a cliffhanger.

“I will kill for them without hesitation.”

Jordan is the first book in the East Dremest Mafia series and what a dang story. Jordon is the head of the East Dremest Mafia and anyone who crosses him, they will not live to see the next day. Jordan has had to end people's life just to protect him and his son. He has a hard time letting love come back to him after knowing what it has done before. When he meets Hartley and Vail, these two seem to bring out a different side in him and one that he can no longer keep hidden. He will do whatever he can for both of them while also protecting everyone that is under him.

“It doesn’t matter where you rest your head at night. What matters is how high you hold it when you’re awake.”

“I shouldn’t go near either of you, yet I can’t seem to f*cking help myself. You’re both here and I never want to let you go. I don’t know what it means, if there’s anywhere for us to go, but don’t leave.”

“I’m letting you in. Once you’re there, I won’t be able to let you go, not without ripping my heart out in the process.”

Hartley and Vail get real close to Jordan and have an instant attraction to him that leads into more. It helps that Hartley and Vail also feel the attraction with each other & that they've known each for a long time. The more that they get to know Jordan, the more that they feel for him. They will do anything and everything to keep the three of them together. Just when things start to go good for them, their family dinner is interrupted and it was such a shock and surprise.

I love this book and will end up wanting to read the rest of the book in this series. I need to know what is going to happen and how it will end. I will also be reading the books before this one. The connection between the main MC's, you can feel it while reading. This book touches your heart and you can't help but feel for Jordan.

All I can say is: When can we get the next book in the series? Can you please hurry it along :)

“Out here, in my home, anywhere except my bed, we’ll have a balance. We’re equals. I don’t want to tame you. I want you to give me every part of you.”

#I received an ARC from GRR (Gay Romance Reviews) and this is my honest review.
3,396 reviews28 followers
June 7, 2024
Wow
This is the book I was waiting for. We’ve met Jordan through the ruined and relinquish series. And in the series three ties. And I’m going to me I saw a whole different side of him through this book. Just say I thought he was coldhearted before is an understatement that Jordan has layers like an onion. There are so many hidden there. He meets Vail who is a chef that works at Dexen exclusive club, Vail is an amazing chef was hired for a family dinner party. Jordan was instantly attracted to him but after what happened to his two previous love interests he never wanted to be that vulnerable again. But the dinner party doesn’t go as planned. When Dex, Greer and JJ arrive, JJ was straight away looking to argue with his father, but that night JJ got the answers he wanted and they were what he was expecting. And because Vail had hear everything Jordan needed to make sure Vail never repeated it to anyone. They talked and understood each other it was obvious the attraction went both ways.
Jordan had an appointment with a fashion designer called Hartley. Jordan was after some new suits. But he was underwhelmed when he came to the studio. But when he spotted the man, he was instantly attracted to him, he comes away after ordering three suits and leaving a strong impression with Hartley.
When all three are together at, Jordans place, it’s becomes obvious, that Jordan can’t fight it any longer. He knows that these two men are his and he will be theirs until his last breath.
I absolutely adore this book. I like to see Jordan for the person he was and the person he could be for his partners. I like that Vail didn’t back down when Jordan tried to tell him what to do. And Hartley is just so cute with Jordan. Hartley and Vail knew each other before so they have history. Hartley had a massive crush on Vail who was Harley's brothers best friend. Vail has an ex who was abusive and is making trouble for Jordan. Lots going on
This book Ends with a cliffhanger and I cannot wait for the next book.
These men are truly lush and I’m super excited another fantastic read from Michelle Dare.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Michelle.
68 reviews5 followers
August 16, 2024
Because I did love them, even if I didn’t have the courage to say the words yet."

@m_dare is one of the few authors whom I love to read their MMM books..with her I know going in that there is always scenes with all three..if not there is some pact along the way if they are okay if the other two play without the other...but with Jordan she went a different route...and honestly I truly loved it..each man had a different type of relationship with the other..with Hart and Vail their was their past and their familiarity...Vail and Jordan there was this push and pull..and the pushing of the buttons that Vail did so nicely..and how it would wind Jordan up..with Hartley and Jordan even though Jordan is a hard man theirs is sort of a sweet and more of a understanding where each other came from....

The way Jordan just had the I will protect these men at all costs...touch him you will die...I will take a bullet to save them type love..and at the same time was too scared to admit that love because of past loves who betrayed him..and threatened the life of his son..the one who he did everything for..I understood his hesitation and worries...not knowing if one day would turn their backs on him..or if an enemy would retaliate and go after them because they are his weakness.

Jordan, you beautiful man...you see yourself as a bad man..you see yourself as a killer..and that you only bring bad to those you truly love..but Sr. you do so much for your people of East Dremest...you do everything in your power to protect what is yours..the men in your life are your top priority all the while putting yourself last..that is the epitome of a good man..the guilt that you feel is unwarranted..you did what any parent who loves their child would do...I misjudged you from the very first Dremest book I read and I am so freaking sorry...and yes I still can't not believe I am saying this but you have joined X as my favorite Dremest, PA men...
Profile Image for Megan McGrath .
598 reviews5 followers
June 8, 2024
I hadn't realized this was an extension/sequel series of Michelle Dare's Three Ties series initially. I'm happy that I had read the Three Ties series before jumping into this one. While not necessary to read before Jordan, it definitely helps when understanding the Prologue and the characters mentioned.

At the moment, I can't recall if I'd read about Hartley or Vail in any of the Three Ties books, but it's highly possible as it's been a few months since I read Three Ties. I enjoyed the differences given between the two men and Jordan, as well as their surprisingly complimentary lifestyles. When it's established that Hartley & Vail have their own past to add to the story, it's easier to see how they would connect. Neither man truly enjoys what Jordan does for a living, but both Hartley and Vail confess to having had an instant attraction and pull with him, thereby diminishing some of their previously held fears. They claim to have the ability to bring out the humanizing side(s) to Jordan. This emotional shift for Jordan is witnessed, and commented on, by several different characters, including his son, JJ. Their relationship as father and son is drastically altered when new information comes to light about their past. Hartley and Vail do what they can to support Jordan while this happens.
I was very surprised about the story's cliffhanger, despite the available blurb. The way in which the book ends is stressful and painful for Hartley and Vail, and they're left in confusion. I know the series will continue with more of the story, so I'm holding my breath for another fantastic and gripping story.

I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
Profile Image for Erin Schwichtenberg.
182 reviews
June 9, 2024
WHATEVER WAS MEANT TO HAPPEN, WOULD!

NOT required BUT i definitely would recommend reading the series Three Ties and Ruined & Relinquished first. You will really be able to follow Jordan’s journey better that way! I had such a hate/love for the guy before reading this story! Also, yes this is a cliffhanger and will continue on in the next book! Ugh, frustrating I know, but I’m sure it will be worth it!!

Jordan- East Dreamest Mafia Boss but when he is with Hartley and Vail he is just Jordan. From past books I absolutely did NOT like Jordan. But as time went on and now after reading this book, I have much more respect for him. Deep down he just wants to love and be loved.

Hartley- fashion designer going through a hard time. He is doing everything he can to basically start over. He also may be the youngest of the three but he also don’t put up with anyone’s BS.

Vail- part time chef with past trauma from an abusive ex stalker. Don’t let looks deceive you. Vail is the absolute sweetest with a big heart! And a cute dog that loves everyone except his ex.

I love how Michelle includes her side characters just enough that they don’t over take any of the story but also enough that you HAVE to have a story about them cause you need to know!!! Like Reghan and Barrett, and Raiden and Alton. And definitely also Sheldon!
Big bad mafia boss swoops in steals their hearts. You can’t forget about Pepper! The rival between Jordan and her is hilarious!!! This book includes small snippets of how the mafia boss works but also how he is a sucker for a tiny ball of white fluff named Latte. The story leaves you hanging just when it also sucks you in the list of course! Bring on the second part of the story cause I’m ready!!

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for EvaReadsWithDog.
213 reviews5 followers
May 27, 2024
I finished reading “Jordan” over the weekend, I devoured it, and I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m in love with the mafia boss of East Dremest. I was so much looking forward to his book and it didn’t disappoint! We got glimpses of him in the “Three Ties” and the “Ruined & Relinquished” series and we finally get to learn more about him in the first book of the “East Dremest Mafia”.

Jordan is the mafia boss of East Dremest. He knows how to run all his businesses, the legal and illegal ones, he is ruthless, refuses to fall in love again and his son is the cause of his heartburn but loves him unconditionally. Oh, and he doesn’t do hugs… And then, Vail and Hartley happen. Vail is a kind, sweet chef trying to get back on track after a past abusive relationship. Hartley is the fashion designer responsible for Jordan’s suits. His career is literally in Jordan’s hands and Hartley’s hands are literally on Jordan’s waist and legs and arms, measuring him.

I absolutely love their story. The possessiveness, the banter, the roller-coaster of emotions and heat (and spice) are all over. Their story is a bit bloody at times, has funny moments, family moments and two dogs. The struggle to express feelings is real and made my heart beat a bit faster for these men. And of course all the Dremest guys. And the guards around Jordan. Love all the background we get on them. The book ends on a cliffhanger that is killing me right now but I’m loving it at the same time! So we’ll get to discover more about these men in the next book, “Vail”.
Michelle, thank you so very much for trusting me to read an ARC of this book. It’s an honor.
Profile Image for Tara.
125 reviews4 followers
June 5, 2024
Jordan is an MMM steamy contemporary romance and book one in the East Dremest Mafia series. It features a man who doesn’t want to fall in love again, an incredibly sweet chef, and a fashion designer trying to climb his way back from the bottom.

I absolutely loved this book, I really enjoy this authors writing style and how it flows, I find it easy to get sucked into the world and could not put it down.

The angst was a bit higher than usual but with the main character Jordan being a mafia boss, I'd expect nothing less. And it didn't take me out of the story at all.
I adored all the characters that were introduced and now I'm itching for a story focusing on the twin bodyguards so badly, pleaseeee! I never want this world to run out of stories. And I would LOVE to read more about Reghan & Raiden 🖤🖤

Jordan is indeed a complicated man, with many layers that slowly get uncovered! If you've read the previous books, you'll be pleased with the amount of answers you get here but left craving so much more after the cliffhanger ending! I NEED SO MUCH MORE...and I can't wait for Vail book 2 in the series.

This book includes:
-A sinful mafia boss
-Hurt/Comfort
-First Love
-Age gap
-MMM Romance

Overall I finished this way too quickly but loved every moment even that damn jaw dropping ending, but that only makes me look forward to the next one even more. If you're after a little kick with your spicy romance, a sense of danger on the side while falling in love this one would be for you!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
171 reviews4 followers
June 7, 2024
Jordan Altair was the epitome of a mafia boss, with a twist. He ran his illegal and legal businesses in East Dremest. His nephew ran his late brother’s empire on the other side of the river. Jordan kept his side clean, relative crime free, and his people were well cared for. His philanthropic works were many. But he could be brutal, personally ending the lives of two people he loved who betrayed him. Jordan lives alone in his penthouse and has no desire for another relationship until two men he could not ignore dropped into his life. Soon he would do anything to keep them while trying to build a relationship with his estranged son as well as the son of his deceased second in command.
Michelle Dare writes throuples and she writes them well. Jordan ends in a cliffhanger and the story continues in book 2 : Vail. This book is a spin off of her Three Ties series which I read immediately before Jordan. I did not read her Ruined and Relinquished series before Jordan which was a mistake. As soon as I read R&R, I went back and read Jordan again. The characters of both of those series are closely interwoven into Jordan and are integral to the plot. I have never been a huge fan of MMM+ but every relationship in these two series are throuples and I absolutely loved Three Ties and R&R and would highly recommend reading them first. Jordan’s follow-up release Vail is due out in September. Plan on some long weekends as you will want to binge this whole set.
Profile Image for The Spicy  Queer.
43 reviews
December 30, 2024
𝘉𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥, 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺 𝘨𝘶𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘧𝘪𝘢 𝘣𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯. 𝘉𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘸𝘪𝘤𝘦, 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘥, 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘯? 𝘐𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥, 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘧𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥...

My oh My. These Dremest men have my whole heart and soul. Getting to know the big boss of East Dremest only solidified this for me. ❤️

Michelle Dare strikes again, this time with the man we have all been waiting for, Jordan Altair Sr. When I think of a morally grey character you cannot help but fall for, this is it. At the end of Three Hearts on the Line, we discovered a whole other side to the cold-hearted mafia don.

In this book, we see the beginning of a softer side. The rounding of his sharp edges. The development of love story rooted in trust, devotion and loyalty. One thing Jordan will always do is protect anything and anyone that is his. We also get to see the inner workings of his organization, the dirty work and the fury of a man determined to not be bested by anyone.

Meeting Vail and Hartley was a pleasure and I cannot wait to see how their story develops in the next books. These wonderful men know exactly how to tame the big bad wolf and I'm excited to see how much they are ready to fight for their man. 🔥

I am almost sad that I powered through this story in a couple of hours because now I'm patiently waiting for the rest (ty again Michelle for this cliffhanger 🫠🫠🫠🫠).

Jordan Sr., Vail and Hartley 🥃🔪🪡
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️/🌶️🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for Caroline  Griffith.
255 reviews6 followers
June 8, 2024
Do your reading, you absolutely need to read this series in order. There are throuples galore and everyone is truly entwined. I adore this series and Michelle Dare but truly this is a story I really didn't think I needed. Jordan is quite easily hateable and has very few redeeming qualities. He has made some grand gestures to show his devotion but honestly they seem to be quell his guilt. But we are so wrong to hate Jordan. Yes, he's an a*hole mob boss but everything he does is for love and duty. We are dropped a major plot twist of a prior mentioned murder. Jordan does not feel worthy of love and honestly I totally get it. Both times he felt truly in love he was betrayed to fullest extent. Then enter Vail and Hartley. While I do not love how the intimacy evolved with this grouping the layers are understandable. It just didn't seem to fit that they wouldn't be as much of a unit as other couplings. But this grouping needs each other so very much and it is awesome to see. They all begin to realize that not only are they worthy of love but the love that is developing between them is worthy to be explored. They get hit with major blow just as they are beginning to solidify themselves as a unit and calls into question the trust between them. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Amanda Winter.
867 reviews22 followers
June 10, 2024
This is the first book I have read in this world, and even though I hadn't read the earlier books, I didn't feel like I was missing out on anything crucial to this story. From the start, I could understand the family dynamics and the power that Jordan held.

Jordan is a complex and intriguing character. Despite his involvement in the mafia and the blood on his hands, he adheres to a strict moral code, has a fiercely protective nature, and values family above all else. Betrayal, whether in his business or family circle, means only one thing—death. This dreadful decision has been forced upon him twice, leaving a significant toll on his tough, distrustful demeanor.

Discovering love with not one, but two men—Vail and Hartley—brought a warm feeling of satisfaction, knowing that Jordan wouldn't be alone anymore. The HFN (Happy for Now) ending means we will have the chance to enjoy this triad even more in the future, and it's definitely worth the wait.

This story kept me gripped, and even though I knew it ended on a cliffhanger, I was still shocked when it ended. I am looking forward to reading "Vail" when it comes out to continue this story. If there's more of a certain cop and bodyguard, I will be even happier. Now that I've read about Jordan, I'm interested in where it all began, so I have more on my TBR list.
243 reviews8 followers
May 8, 2025
Pas bon du tout. L’histoire est précipitée, les choses sont dites et de façon répétitive de sorte on tourne en rond et en boucle. À part les scènes de sexe entre les personnages principaux leurs relations n’a aucun développement .insta-love pourquoi, au vu du contexte de l’un des personnages principaux ( mafia boss) on s’attendait à un peu plus de profondeur et complications dans la relation mais il n’en est rien. Il y a pas que lui l’un subissait des violences conjugales… rien pas de vraies réticences à entamer une relation. On nous montre pas l’apprentissage de l’un l’autre, on nous montre pas le début de vie ensemble dans l’appartement, choquant la place de l’un ou de l’autre dans la relation, insécurité, personnalités. Rien le vide complet. En un flash, on a tout c’est comme le fast-food aussi vite ingurgité aussi vite chié😳😑🥴. Je vais pas parler de la pseudo fin pour un next book parce que 🫤 Bref
C’est pas de l’écriture c’est du fanfiction rien d’autre et beaucoup d’amateurisme qui débouche sur du rien.
J’ai plus le temps de flatter les égos je paie et je voudrais un travail de qualité et non du bâclé. J’en ai terminé avec ces auteurs qui sont incapables d’évoluer ou même au minimum de se relire ou un tiers pro. Stop.😒
Je ne recommanderais pas cette auteure pour aucun de ses livres.
Profile Image for Gale MR.
329 reviews22 followers
June 9, 2024
I love Michelle's fictional world and Dremest - the town, where all of her triads has found their HEA so far. I love the impeccably good storytelling and how emotionally charged it is. But I have a softer spot for the darker side and East Dremest, where the sinfully tempting, drop dead gorgeous mafia boss Jordan Altair Senior rules.
In order for the reader to understand the motivation behind Jordan's actions, life choices and the complicated father-son connection with JJ, prior reading of the other books in The ties that bind is essential. For me, personally, this isn’t an angsty, heavy story, but it depends on what everyone defines as dark and triggering.
Jordan is a complex, intriguing man and despite his bloody hands and mafia involvement, he has an ironclad moral code, fierce protective nature and values family above everything. Betrayal - in his business or family circle - means only one thing - Death and he was forced to make this dreadful decision twice in his life. And this hard decision has taken a toll on this tough, distrustful man. Finding not one but 2 men to love and be loved in return - Vail and Hartley -gave me a warm feeling of satisfaction, that he wouldn't be alone anymore. The HFN at the end means only one thing - we will have the chance to enjoy this triad more so it's definitely worth waiting.
Profile Image for ReadMMRomanceWithMe.
141 reviews18 followers
June 8, 2024
Always a good day to go back to East Dremest! The world that Michelle has created has only grown and now we finally get to learn more about Jordan.

We first met Jordan as the scary mafia boss and JJs father. Jordan has been lurking around the previous books as someone you don’t want to mess with. I remember him popping up in previous books and just itching to hear more about his story. I knew deep down that he needed his happy ending.

I was excited to hear that Vail and Hartley were his love interests. These men are the perfect partners for Jordan. Finding out that Vail and Hartley knew each other when they were younger just made the story better. Anyone else hoping that a certain brother should get his own redemption story? Oh and all those guards! We kept meeting them left and right and all I did was imagine what nonsense they could get up to. 😉 Seeing Jordan open up to Vail and Hartley and claim them as his own was perfect! Yes, I did know Jordan had a heart and it’s been wonderful to see it!

Yes we were left with a cliffhanger so I’ll just be sitting here waiting until Vails story comes out.
Profile Image for Traci S.
2,062 reviews14 followers
June 9, 2024
4.5⭐️
This was great, Jordan is an absolute star in this. He is the perfect dark, morally complicated, dangerous character that I love in a mafia romance. This author really excels at world building, the setting is gritty and full of sketchy characters. The perfect atmospheric for Jordan’s romantic reawakening. It is definitely a benefit to have read the prior books as this one is very much connected. I loved all the messy interpersonal entanglements, makes this such a fun read. Jordan was so interesting, he is starting to struggle under the pressure of his role. The mafia boss starts to have some inconvenient and unexpected feelings. He’s had a pretty brutal history with love, which makes moving forward with Hartley and Vail tricky. This author is so skilled a MMM romance, the balance and connection between the three main characters is spot on. Hartley, Vail, and Jordan have epic chemistry but the emotional connection is also beautifully depicted. I’m quite invested in seeing what happens next for them, I love a good cliffhanger and this one was so fun.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
221 reviews2 followers
February 13, 2025
Well I will admit, I was a little nervous going into this book. I was afraid that it was going to be too dark and dreary for me because of who Jordan is, but I can honestly say that I loved this book just as much as I have the other books in this series! I love the side of Jordan that we get to see when he is with Vail and Hartley, but I also love how that transfers to JJ and his partners and even to Romeo and Tristan. I love that Jordan wants to protect Vail and Hartley but is still mindful of Vail’s qualms and worries about being owned and controlled again. And I love that we get to see him trying to regain a relationship with JJ even though he feels he shouldn’t have one and doesn’t deserve to be near JJ. While I hate what happens at the end, I’m glad that we get to see the letter that Malik left for Jordan, but I also wish that we would have gotten to see some of the relationship between Malik and Jordan because I feel like it plays such a big part in the person that Jordan is in this book. Either way I’m so glad that these three characters were brought together and that we get two more books focused solely on their relationship! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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