Twisted Secrets

The O'Malleys #3

by Katee Robert

Greed. Ambition. Violence. Those are the "values" Olivia Rashidi learned from her Russian mob family-and the values she must leave behind for the sake of her daughter. When she meets Cillian O'Malley, she recognizes the red flag of his family name . . . yet she still can't stop herself from seeing the smoldering, tortured man. To save her family, Olivia sets out to discover Cillian's own secrets, but the real revelation is how fast-and how hard-she's falling for him.

Plagued by a violent past, Cillian is more vulnerable than anyone realizes. Anyone except Olivia, whose beauty, compassion, and pride have him at "hello," even if she's more inclined to say good-bye to an O'Malley. While his proposal of sex with no strings seems simple, what he feels for her isn't, especially after he learns that she belongs to a rival crime family. Cillian knows that there is no escape from the life, but Olivia may be worth trying-and dying-for . . .

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Mafia Romance, Audiobook, Dark Romance, Fiction

337 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 30, 2016

About the author

Katee Robert is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of spicy romance. Entertainment Weekly calls her writing “unspeakably hot.” Her books have sold over two million copies. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, children, a cat who thinks he’s a dog, and two Great Danes who think they’re lap dogs.

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Reviews

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

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Cillian O'Malley is the sibling that took his brother's death the hardest. When he lost Devlin his life went a little out of control and he felt himself spiraling down a dangerous path. Putting a stop to his behavior that could get him in some deep trouble, he's now on the straight and narrow. Well, he was until he met Olivia Rashidi.

Olivia knows all about Mafia life, and she wants no part of it. So when the sexy man who orders apple juice at the bar where she works tells her his last name, she knows to stay far away. But Cillian is insistent in his want for her, and she's starting to forget why she needs to stay away from him.



I've been a fan of this series from the very beginning and I don't think that will ever change. Katee Robert took the Mafia genre and ruled it in an almost contemporary way with this book, and it made me fall madly in love. It was completely unlike the previous books with an added soft side to these characters, and I couldn't get enough of it. I love how, so far, all of the books in this series have had very different tones, while all following the same kind of mafia storyline. While in the last book we were held in suspense, in An Indecent Proposal there was a sweetness that was brought to the story. Unexpected, but not hated.

I had high expectations for Cillian, thinking he would be the tough brother that had a dangerous personality. Well I was completely wrong, he was the exact opposite of everything I thought. And I loved that fact. He had a vulnerable side to him that broke my heart and made me want to give him a hug. Seeing how affected he was by the life he was living was really emotional and made me connect to his character very strongly. He was ten times better than what I had imagined in my mind before starting this book.



Olivia was the perfect heroine for Cillian. She had her moments where she was unsure of herself and questioned what she was getting involved in, but she never backed down. There was a fighter inside of her and that was evident from the moment we met her. She became my favorite heroine from this series because I loved how real she was. We all have those inner battles whenever we're doing something new and we have to wonder if it's the right thing, and that battle was portrayed within this character incredibly well. It made her easy to relate to, and I think that's why I enjoyed her so much.



Bottom line, if you haven't started this series yet, you're missing out on something great. Katee doesn't just write a story for you to read, she creates a whole new world for you to immerse yourself in, and you need to experience that. Clearly a very high recommendation from me.

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Making the Right Choices Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
Katee Robert has delivered an excellent installment to her series, The O'Malleys. All of the turmoil, all of the pain from loss is there wreaking havoc on everyone. Each of the siblings is mourning the loss of their beloved brother... and Cillian feels the most pain coupled with personal guilt...

This story takes us on the journey of two lost people tied to crime families and should never be together. All of the reasons for them to stay clear of each other are more than valid...and yet for some unexplained reason... they cannot escape the draw...the need to touch...the way it is combustible... they can't fight it...because it is just too good.

We have Olivia. She was the bastard child of the Russian Mob...always in a place of limbo...never acknowledged, but held close by. Never free yet wishing as a child and then teenager to be recognized...She took it upon herself to "show them" and fell for a "protector" of her father's. Thinking he truly loved her more than the family, she became pregnant and thought together they would leave all of this behind them.

Silly Girl...

He loved his boss and family more....turning her over to be held until the child was born. Her father became ill and like all those facing death... decided to finally give her his name and wealth on his deathbed. Her half-brother has promised his dying father to make it so...Olivia flees with her daughter, lands in Boston, and is trying to start over. At the bar, no one knows anything about her and her past. Here she is keeping her nose down and doing her job.

At least that was the plan...

Cillian O'Malley has been auditioning for the role of the Walking Dead....he is alive but dead inside. The Guilt he carries for the loss of his brother is like a cape surrounding every thought and feeling he has...It was his stupid drunkenness that caused all of them to be on the street that night...He should have died instead of his brother...But he didn't...

So, no more alcohol
No more broads or flashy hookups
No more reckless behavior...He is done with all of it. His family doesn't know or see he has changed... but that doesn't matter. He will live better, be cleaner, and try to be worthy.

At the bar, he has been watching Olivia. He actually can't stop. He has come up and as she gives him the evil eye and asks what he wants... he surprises her when he says Apple Juice. Not sure of what game he is playing, Olivia gets it and dodges any small talk with him.

She does not like that she feels a spark and physical need for him. He is Irish Mob... exactly what she is trying to get away from. He is feeling what he has since the first time he saw her but when she shoots him down because he is O'Malley, he flashes back on all the pain he has caused...throws down his cash, and leaves.

Olivia sees the crazy amount he has tipped her and will not stand for him to think she can be bought or owing anyone. She runs after him, stops him, and confronts him with the cash. Both of them are intense with how they feel and before their minds can react...

Their bodies take over. Lips. Tongues. Brick Walls and Animal Attraction.
Both know this is not a great idea...well, Cillian has a different idea...he is thinking more along the lines, this woman is something different...Olivia is sure this is a reckless idea and insists it won't be repeated.

Cillian and Olivia are equals. They both fight for what is right, each other and their loves. His, for her and her daughter...and his family to be better. She, for her daughter to be free and have a life without hidden lies or violence. They come together and their passion is equal. They are stronger together.

This story has a lot happening and it all meshes quite well. We have the push/pull of our main couple. They are not supposed to be together... but end up perfect for each other. We have the Russian Mob, an ex who is determined to please the Family, punish Olivia for leaving him and we have the broken O'Malley sisters of Cillian, Sloan, and Keira. Both of these women are in their own crisis and hints of what is to come in their stories are there.

Katee Robert created this world and it lives on her pages. I cannot wait to see the next installment with Sloan...for the the tease I read was perfect.

This series is best read in order:
The Marriage Contract (The O'Malleys, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Wedding Pact (The O'Malleys, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
An Indecent Proposal (The O'Malleys, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Forbidden Promises (The O'Malleys, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Undercover Attraction (The O'Malleys, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Bastard's Bargain (The O'Malley's #6)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

And The New Second Generation:
The Bastard's Betrayal (Scandalous Scions #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Been with these O'Malleys from the start...
Ready to dig in and feel all the torture and heat Cillian and Olivia can bring...
●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
2/18/2016
As someone who has been with this series from the start....
Katee Robert has taken these Crime Families and escalated the intensity, ruthlessness and intrigue with each installment...

Now we have the broken Cillian obsessively attracted to the secretive Olivia...
These two have so many reasons to stay apart....and so much desire to ignore them...

Katee Robert you are weaving a tale of Crime Families, Desire and Fight....
Better with each book....

I.Can.Wait.

An Indecent Proposal (The O'Malleys, #3) August 30th 2016

A gifted copy was provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley for an honest review.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review



A sexy symphony of danger, chicanery, loss, raw emotions, and a mafia romance like no other!!!! Katee Robert has once again hypnotized readers as she beautifully and masterfully delivered a story that is a modern version of The Godfather and Goodfellas. Of course, this book stands out on it’s own as Katee Robert didn’t forget to put her own signature mafia twist.

In this third installment to The O’Malleys Series , Katee Robert focuses on Cillian O’Malley. Cillian was the brother that intrigued me from the start and I couldn’t wait to read his story in An Indecent Proposal. Cillian took his brother’s death the hardest and soon he found comfort in alcohol, violence, and women. When his life began to spiral out of control, Cillian took it upon himself to reinvent and change his former ways.

Violence. Duplicity. Greed. Death. Olivia Rashidi has become very familiar with those things as she has lived majority of her life surrounded by this lifestyle. As the daughter of a Russian mob, Olivia decides to leave that part of her life behind so her daughter can live a normal life. And so when she meet Cillian O’Malley, Olivia has every right to be nervous and wary of him. She is very familiar with the surname O’Malley and their association to the Irish Mafia.

As much as Olivia should know to stay away, she is drawn to Cillian in such a visceral manner that didn’t need much explanation. The raw vulnerable sides that both Olivia and Cillian had were tastefully exposed and stripped in such a captivating way that readers like myself could feel that unspoken bond that they shared. And in true mafia romance, danger begins to threaten the safety and bubble of Olivia and Cillian as a war of power struggle in Boston begins to emerge when Olivia’s half brother enters the picture. As the imminent danger begins to loom, how far will Cillian go to protect Olivia and her daughter?

An Indecent Proposal was a sexy, riveting, and emotionally gripping mafia romance that was beautifully well-written. Katee Robert added depth, humanity, grit, and violence in such a profound way highlighting the inner turmoil and battle that Cillian and Olivia has to endure. Within the backdrops of power struggle, violence, and the mafia, Katee Robert wrote an amazing love story that was unmistakably tangible and palpable right from the opening pages. This third installment is hands down my favorite of the series and so if you are looking for an emotive, action-packed, and sexy romance then I highly recommend you read this book and series NOW!!!



Katee Robert

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

An Indecent Proposal by Katee Robert
Book Three of the O'Malleys series
Publisher: Forever
Publication Date: August 30, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

Greed. Ambition. Violence. Those are the "values" Olivia Rashidi learned from her Russian mob family-and the values she must leave behind for the sake of her daughter. When she meets Cillian O'Malley, she recognizes the red flag of his family name . . . yet she still can't stop herself from seeing the smoldering, tortured man. To save her family, Olivia sets out to discover Cillian's own secrets, but the real revelation is how fast-and how hard-she's falling for him.

Plagued by a violent past, Cillian is more vulnerable than anyone realizes. Anyone except Olivia, whose beauty, compassion, and pride have him at "hello," even if she's more inclined to say good-bye to an O'Malley. While his proposal of sex with no strings seems simple, what he feels for her isn't, especially after he learns that she belongs to a rival crime family. Cillian knows that there is no escape from the life, but Olivia may be worth trying-and dying-for . . .

What I Liked:

I savored this book as I was reading it. I rarely do that - usually I read a book start to finish at a comfortable pace, and most of the time, I want to read it as fast as possible because the book is that engrossing. This book was truly engrossing, but also one of those books that you want to savor as you read it. It was pretty great!

Olivia Rashidi has escaped from her Romanov family in New York, and is currently in Boston with her fourteen-month-old daughter. She works at a bar, where the handsome and devilish Cillian O'Malley frequents. This bar is on O'Malley territory, and Cillian is no stranger to the bar. He's been haunted since his younger brother's death, a shell of what he used to be. But he's interested in Olivia, and he knows that she's interested in him too. But she turns him down time after time, and he respects that. But when sparks fly and Olivia acts on her desire for Cillian, things are set in motion. Olivia hasn't escaped the Romanovs - or her ex-boyfriend - as well as she thought.

I actually hadn't really read the synopsis for the book, so initially, I didn't know much about the book. I absolutely loved The Marriage Contract, and really enjoyed The Wedding Pact, so reading An Indecent Proposal was a no-brainer. Cillian's story? Sign me up!

We meet Cillian in the previous books - he's the fourth of seven O'Malley children, in his mid-twenties, and shouldering way too much blame for his younger brother's death. Devlin was shot when the four brothers were walking home from a bar one night - and they were walking because Cillian was drunk and wanted to walk it off. Cillian takes on a lot of guilt and burdens, and it's obvious that he isn't what he used to be. A former playboy, a man who loved drinking and getting around and enjoying life, was almost defeated, and noticeably so. Cillian has the wounded brooding sexy guy thing going on, AND he's a fancy dresser, with all of his three-piece suits. Gosh I want one of him. I love it when a guy likes to dress nicely.

Olivia sees Cillian often at the bar she works in, but she is determined not to have anything to do with men, not while the last man she was with betrayed her as badly as he did. Olivia has a fourteen-month-old daughter to protect, and she will protect her with everything she has. Olivia is hiding her daughter Hadley from Dmitri (Olivia's half-brother), and Sergei (who works for Dmitri, and is also Olivia's former boyfriend and Hadley's father). Olivia is guarded and prickly and a bit mysterious, and she's a momma bear in every sense of the phrase.

I liked Cillian more than Olivia, and as much as this book focused on Olivia, I thought it was definitely more of Cillian's book, than Olivia's. Olivia's conflict seems more central because it's her and her daughter on the run, hiding from Sergei and Dmitri. But Cillian... it's clear that his pain and his hurting is just as important to the story. Both characters have so much baggage and so much to work through, and this adds great depth to the story (heartbreaking depth!).

Usually I don't like books with children in them (in which one of the protagonists has a child or children), and initially, I didn't know that Olivia had a kid (I never read the synopsis, remember?). But discovering Hadley's existence didn't bother me like it usually does, in books. Maybe because Hadley is so young (barely a year old)? In any case, I liked Hadley, and I liked her purpose/role in the book. I hated how she came about, but for once, I didn't mind the presence of a kid.

The romance was sweet! It starts as a healthy chase, because Olivia kept turning down Cillian. Cillian asked her out two or three times but respected her rejections, and did not keep pursuing her. So she was the one to come to him, and the two of them together are like two pieces of a puzzle. Honestly, Cillian seemed too good to be true at times. He's selfless and giving and doesn't pry or push, but he's also protective and dominant and alpha. It's an interesting combination.

The chemistry between these two is fairly sizzling, but this book isn't nearly as hot as most of Robert's other books. I expected a higher level of fire, and this book was a little lacking in that department. Still pretty steamy! Just not as much as her other books (in this series, as well as with other publishers).

I love how this series is not just about the romance! The mafias and the crime and all the underground, underhand dealings are so important to this story, and the series in general. You can read each book as a standalone, but it's cool to see the progression of the mafias and their business with each successive book.

In the end, I really enjoyed this book. I think The Marriage Contract is still my favorite book, but this one is probably coming in second, at the moment. I am very excited to read Sloan's book next, but Keira's book with Dmitri is the one I'm extremely anxious to read. Dmitri is an interesting guy - in good and bad ways. I can't wait!

What I Did Not Like:

Like I said above, this book wasn't nearly as steamy as I would have expected, from Robert. Her books in general are SO smoking hot, so I was a tiny bit disappointed when this book didn't follow suit. I think there was a lot of character development and emotional relationship development and bonding and such, but the sexy times could have been more present.

But that's okay! Still a very great book.

Would I Recommend It:

If you're liking the series, keep reading! There will be six books in the series, so we're halfway there. We have Sloan/Jude, Keira/Dmitri, and Aiden/Charlie to look forward to over the next couple of years (yay!). This series is probably my favorite series of Robert's! If you like her Brazen novels, you'll like this series. Great romance, wonderful characters, and an intriguing world!

Rating:

4 stars. This series has not disappointed me yet, and I'm sure it won't! The author hasn't either, and I'm sure she won't. I like her Brazen novels, but this series really takes the cake! Who knew a world of mafia and crime could be so yummy.

[Kim Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Katee Robert does it again! This series is so full of character and emotion - the pages practically turn themselves.

I was already half in love with Cillian from his small introduction in The Wedding Pact, but after this book, I'm all in. He's an enigmatic kind of hero - the guy you can never quite get a true read on. His three-piece suits and cocky demeanor hide his vulnerability and self-inflicted torment. In other words - he's perfect!

Olivia is a bit of a mystery as well. She's got the tough girl exterior that is also hiding her troubled and sensitive past. She's the kind of kick-butt heroine that makes you want to stand up and cheer for her - especially when it comes to the way she protects her daughter. I really enjoyed getting to know her.

When these two hook up ... find a fan! It's hot.

The plot line in this one is fairly straight-forward, but that doesn't drop the intensity. Like I said - it's a page turner. Although, I did find the resolution a little too quick. I would have liked the feeling of danger to last just a little longer - the threat, while a good one, seemed easy to deal with.

Overall, another great addition to this terrific series. The next book is already set-up nicely & I can't wait to get more of Sloan's story.

Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy of this title for review.

[Bubu · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF'ing this after, I don't know, I must have definitely crossed the 60% mark. Can't be bothered to look it up.

After a week of not touching the book, I can barely remember what the conflict was about. So I'm not going to rate it, either.

Too many other books I really want to read!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I wish wish wish I would have read the two books before this one, and I definitely want to go back and read them. It sounds like we get more of a picture of Cillian before the Cillian we see in this book, given the hints of the next siblings throughout this book. I am very intrigued by this family. This crime/mafia book definitely stands out among the others. It is more emotional and not as violent.

My Cillian:



My Olivia:



Cillian is one of 7 children who makes up the O’Malley Irish mob family in Boston. He is a former party, playboy, but now he is plagued by his brother’s death and the need to just be better. I LOVE Cillian. He is unlike any character I’ve ever read, and I immediately pictured Stephen James as Cillian right away with the tattoos and the suits and his demeanor. He wants to do right by Olivia.

Olivia is tied to the New York Russian mob, so she knows what it is like to be part of a family of secrets and violence. She is trying to escape this part of her life, so she tries to stay away from Cillian, but she is drawn by him.




”I promised myself I’d never get involved with someone like you.”

“Sweetheart, there is no one like me.”





What I loved most about this book is the writing style and emotions in this book. There isn’t much to say about the story. I wish the plot would have moved more. This is a personal preference. I am fan of plot writing. Nevertheless, I really enjoy Katee’s writing style. I got swept up in the emotions of the characters. Cillian and Olivia were well-developed, enough that I didn’t want to stop reading. I really enjoyed the beginning, but the middle of the book fell flat for me only because we get caught up in the characters’ heads.

I am a FAN of Katee Roberts. She is easily becoming one of my favorite go-to authors. Her style is intriguing and keeps me guessing. I’ve read her Brazen books, which are a little more light and fun, but I love this darker side of her as well.

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review.

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[Syndi · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a disaster book. All credited to Olivia. She is such annoying character. I want to bitch slap her. She is needy, stupid and weak character. I wait for her character to develop but she does not. Her trust issue with Cillian is very very annoying. And Cillian goes to any length to protect her and her daughter.

Cillian needs a stronger and kick ass heroine for his character to develop. What a pity for Cillian. And the story also feels dead due to Olivia.

2 stars

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance Summary
Olivia Rashidi knows how the workings of a crime boss family works and it has never worked out for her. But she managed the near impossible, leave and start a new life with her daughter. But she knows that her half brother isn't going to give up easily, but she will do whatever it takes to keep her daughter safe and loved and away from the brutality of the family. Cillian O'Malley, is tortured by his past and the horror of losing the only carefree and innocent of all his siblings, because of him. Cillian blames himself for his brothers death. But there is a salvation for him...stubborn and willful Olivia. A waitress at a local bar he likes to visit while he nurses his glass of juice. Olivia wants to resist Cillian, but a turn of events forces them together and Olivia sees beneath the charismatic Cillian who hides many secrets and parts of himself. But her family doesn't want her to have anything to do with the O'Malley family and they will take drastic measures to ensure it. But can Cillian protect them all from both of their families?
Plot and Story Line
My oh my...Katee Robert never disappoints and I was floored by this book!!! I love Cillian and quite heart breaking I found his character to be in many moments. He is one of the most tormented of the brothers. I took to their romance pretty quickly. I found Olivia so refreshing...she doesn't cave to Cillian like most women do. He has to work and grovel for it! We see how their relationship quickly changes when Cillian gets injured! It changes quite quickly and I enjoyed seeing these two connect more and even though there are plenty of smexy times---this romance isn't overshadowed at all by it. In fact, what I love about this author is how she balances out the story so well with the emotional intimacy that builds between these two. I did want to mention Olivia's one year old daughter. She was so precious, and it was so fun to see her and Cillian together. My heart just melted whenever these two were together especially in the end there. We do get to see some more conflicts of the O'Malley Family. What was most interesting was the oldest brother. I honestly don't know what to make of him, but we see something more from him in this story and I really really liked what I saw. I am very curious about how Robert will do his book. *nodding head* very very curious. This story is dramatic, exciting, dangerous and highly enthralling. definitely  a must for any gritty romance lover out there!!
The Cover
I just love all of these covers...but this one is my favorite so far. I love the pose---and its such a teaser at the hint of muscle we see hehe
Overall View
An Indecent Proposal is a story you can put yourself behind, a romance that takes your breath away and will you have you on the edge of your seat...truly wonderful!!


Click On Image For Buy Link
[foogallery id="18661"]

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well now .... this is the second book this week that has the hero taking me by surprise. Yeah, so Cillian O'Malley is not your typical hard mafia male. He's actually quite soft, but do not mistaken his softness for weakness ;) okay, I just wanted to get that little tid-bit out of the way. He surprised me. And I liked it....

Katee Robert didn't just write about different couples in this series. She also wrote about a family. So even thought, technically, the books can be read as standalones, I don't recommend it. Because then you miss the world they live in. The world she created in a Contemporary genre ... If you've read the series, that should make total sense to you LOL if you haven't yet, it will when you do! I myself have read the series out of order and I have felt the loss. So trust me when I say ... start at the beginning, k.

Out of all the brothers, Cillian is the one with the biggest baggage. The largest whole in his heart and the biggest case guilt...Olivia Rashidi is not without her own baggage! These two should not have made a perfect union, but I'll be damned if it was not spectacular. To try and convey all the facets of this story to you would be like a re-telling of their journey and I'm not going to do that. That would be unfair to all of you future readers. There are so many things I've typed and erased because once I put them to paper I felt like I gave something away. But know this ... Katee Roberts is a force to be reckoned with. Her style and prose and skill is OTT spectacular. She will keep you on your toes and captivate you from page one. And this story is beyond sexy ... #TRUST!

Copy provided for blog tour review

[Maria Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the third story in the O’Malleys series, An Indecent Proposal has a hard act to follow, with the first story in the series, The Marriage Contract getting a well deserved 2016 RITA nomination and the second story, The Wedding Pact just as exciting and explosive as the first. You’d think all the cats would be out of the bag by now, but that’s not the case at all. With the Romanov family seemingly becoming entrenched in the Boston mob scene, it’s Olivia that gets to be the heroine here, in the definitely unwanted spotlight. Raising her daughter on her own and trying to stay clear of the Russian Mob headed by her half-brother, she’s definitely not interested in getting involved with a guy from a background she’s trying to avoid. But Cillian O’Malley has his eye on her and knows that she’s hiding something besides a killer body under her cool facade. Hot alley sex ensues, with Olivia making it clear that there cannot be anything resembling a relationship between them. But while Cillian may not have ever styled himself as anyone’s white knight, especially after the death of his brother that he fully believes is his fault, he’s not going to abandon Olivia when she obviously needs help. Olivia gives him a reason to stand up to his family and ensure his rightful place in the O’Malley empire.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story and the slow revelation of Cillian’s character. As a secondary character in the previous books, he was an enigma and I couldn’t get a fix on him. He really shines in this story, his analytical quick-thinking mind, and his capacity to provide the love and affection (and sex, let’s not forget that!) that Olivia needs making him a definite match for her. He is one of the good guys despite his upbringing, and though he sometimes seems to have a softer side, in a pinch he has the necessary skills and drive to defend them both. There’s a fair amount of action in this story as Olivia is on the run from her brother and her ex, Sergei, who has taken it into his head that Olivia is his by right and he wants her back. There are some sweet scenes with Olivia’s young daughter, both with her and with Cillian that show he’s cut out for father material. Along with the romance between Cillian and Olivia, the other O’Malley siblings get a decent amount of page time, with Sloan deciding to abandon the family politics altogether (leading to some very interesting scenes that hint at her story to come) and Keira causing mischief for everyone around her. Not to mention Aiden, their father’s right-hand man who looks to be following in their father’s footsteps more and more. I love the glimpses of this dysfunctional family with all their flaws and challenges. Cillian has won me over, though, and might just be my favorite hero of this series to date. I can’t wait to see where the story goes next! 5 stars.

Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.

A dual review for this title is post at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...

[Hadeel · Rating 4 out of 5]

oh i love them 🥹

Every time i think i found my favorite book in the series i read the next one and proven wrong. This series just gets better with each book/couple. I am fully invested in the O'Malleys series and having the time of my life!!!

[Gretchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cillian and Sloan’s story was fantastic. Twisted Secrets was an excellent addition to the series. I loved it!

There were so many different dynamics at play and I thought they were all woven together perfectly. There was a lot of conflict, tension, a lot of different layers, and multiple POVs happening. This was a full, intriguing story that had me turning the page like a mad woman.

I really liked Cillian and Sloan. Cillian was fighting demons from his past and trying to move on. It was almost like he was stuck, wanting to break free. He is just so much more than he seems to be and I just wanted to hug him. He could be so sweet and sincere. And then there's Olivia, running from a past she can't really run from but staying strong and doing everything she can for the people she loves. There is a lot of tension as they meet but sparks are seriously flying and I love that oil and water dynamic they had in the beginning before they really start to get to know each other. I loved Cillian and Sloan’s barriers breaking down, owning up to past mistakes, and coming to trust one another. It was awesome. There were so many sweet and vulnerable moments but also a lot of heated ones and I enjoyed them all.

Cillian and Sloan live in a crazy, intense world where there are lots of power plays happening. It's got a very Sopranos-esq feel to it. The O'Malley heirs face so many struggles in this elaborate world. I love that it's from multiple POVs. There are several people we hear from but the overturn isn't quick, so it isn't confusing and I think it really added a lot to the story to get the different views.

There was a nice amount of intensity and drama in this. The writing was great, I was totally pulled in. It was very much a page-turner for me. That ending, I was seriously on the edge of my seat. There is a nice amount of detail throughout. It’s intense, a bit violent, and I feel like it's unique. We have our love interests of course and there is an HEA but with the crazy world they live on, there's just so much more at play. I'm completely hooked.

This is such a great series. Bring on the next book!

Note: I previously read and reviewed this book when it was titled An Indecent Proposal.

[Susy Santos · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is actually good. Still going strong.

[CatherineAA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Katee Robert continues to enthrall readers with this passionate, emotional and riveting installment of her O'Malley series where the antidote for greed and deception is love and loyalty.

Cillian O'Malley knows that his family lost the best part of it when his brother was killed and his role in what happened is something he is yet to forgive himself for, but that loss was the wake up call he needed to clean up his act and step into his place in the family business. The thing is, that loss has also left him with a gaping hole on the inside that nothing has been able to fill. Until Olivia.

As the unacknowledged daughter of a Russian mobster, Olivia Rashidi has seen all that that world has to offer and turned her back on it in order to give her daughter a better life. Cillian with his history and baggage is definitely not the person she needs in her life, especially when she can't seem to completely cut her own mob ties but she's drawn to him in a way that defies explanation and she sees the vulnerability in him that no-one else can see.

Anyone can see that because of their families Cillian and Olivia together are a volatile combination, but the attraction between them is so potent that giving that up seems foolish. But when it's a choice between the woman who completes him and the family that demands his allegiance, can Cillian make the right choice or does he even have to choose?

Cillian had been hard to peg from previous books. He gave off the vibe of a carefree playboy, but in reality, he's complex and very much a contradiction. Underneath all those expensive suits and the charm is a deadly and merciless man who is willing to break all the rules to protect his, but he also has a caring side that only few can see.

Olivia on the other hand is a fighter and on guard all the time which is easy to understand, given her background. But I loved her connection with Cillian. They're very passionate together, smart enough to know that what they have isn't the norm in their world and tough enough to fight for it.

This series really is worth reading because you can't help but connect with characters who are willing to fight for their happiness in a world filled with violence, deception and avarice. I know I've said it before but it bears repeating: this is Ms. Robert's best work.


Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.



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[❀ Alexa ❀ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Is it love… or just lust??? I shouldn’t have to ask this question at the end of a romance book. This might seem harsh but the characters never had one meaningful or deep conversation. They barely knew each other and were already willing to do anything for the other, and that deems them in love??? When did romance books acquire such low standards????

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series just keeps on getting more enthralling! I’ve really enjoyed every book in it which I’ve read so far, including this one. It is great to catch up on what has happened to the other members of the O’Malley family whilst this action packed Boston mob families saga continues. This time it is Cillian O’Malley that is the troubled brother who is the focus for this instalment . . . he has been changed dramatically in attitude and behaviour after his beloved younger brother was assassinated in a gangland/mobster feud. He no longer drinks alcohol, suffers from flashbacks and none of his family seem to recognise the changes in him or support him, denigrating his input and undermining his efforts. To escape their influence he goes to the local bar where Olivia Rashidi works, unaware that she, too, is from a mob family – but her family are the Russians not Irish! Whilst trying to reject his advances, Olivia ends up coming to his rescue and both find resisting their mutual attraction impossible. However, Olivia’s half brother and her ex are both wanting to bring her back to their family and her ex is something of a loose cannon, you’re never quite sure what he may do next.

Get ready for mob warfare to take on a new guise, with undercover activities, threats, a kidnapping and multiple murders as well as romance in this brilliant addition to the saga. The characters are complex, the plot is never straightforward, there are dangers throughout – even to a kind elderly lady – and the writing superb. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this novel and all the other books in this series – I can’t wait to read more about Sloan in the next book in the series!

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for providing me with an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 4 out of 5]

When life, and love, get very complicated….

Boy meets girl. Girl meets boy. They fall in love and everyone is happy. So simple, right? It would be but that is not what you will find here. Here, love is very, very complicated. It is also sexy, emotional and entertaining to the last page!

The O’Malley family is being torn apart by grief and divided loyalties. Complex and suspenseful just scratches the surface when trying to describe the plot running through these stories. There are multiple crime families, intertwining business and love in a mix that is getting even more volatile and umpteen degrees hotter.

Olivia Rashidi and Cillian O’Malley are smack-dab in the middle of it all as their relationship causes a ripple effect of drama and violence that no one could have predicted…

“You’re making it hard to be good, sweetheart.”
“So don’t be good.”

A violent loss caused Cillian to change his ways but months later, he is no closer to finding peace. When Olivia and Hadley enter his life, he quickly realizes that the calm and rightness of them are worth taking anyone on. Even his own family. Of course, first he had to convince Olivia and that was not going to be a cake walk. He had to hustle and it was a treat to watch him try to break down all the barrier she had.

“I want you. You want me. Life’s too short. Let’s do this.”
“And they say romance is dead.”

From hot sex to hotter love and commitment, their relationship was a journey of trust. Olivia had no reason to trust anyone and sharing her secrets, herself, was not easy. Cillian had to work through a lot of his own issues—and hers—but the battle was everything I could have hoped for. With little Hadley providing epic cuteness throughout, my heart was invested all the way through. ~ Diane, 4 stars

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Olivia and Cillian finally hook up after all their flirtations in the last book. What Cillian doesn't realize is all the baggage she brings with her. Dimitri is her brother, she has a child and the baby daddy wants her back. None of that phases Cillian though. I didn't like this one as much as the previous books. Olivia and her inner dialogue was distracting and annoying at times. She debated everything with herselfI loved Cillian though, and you know the promise that he had to make at the end is going to come come back and bite him in the ass at some point. I didn't totally buy into their relationship either. Sloan and her disappearing act is intriguing and her book looks good. 3 stars.

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

I like you Cillian – you’re a good for the most part – but trouble follows you around like stink on a pig.

She was a big woman who looked like she came from a family of lumberjacks and bench-pressed trees for fun.

And if she waffled any more, she was going to have to douse herself in syrup and serve herself on a plate for Sunday breakfast.

The woman had more spikes than a porcupine…

My Review:

An Indecent Proposal is book three in the angsty Irish Mafia family series by Katee Robert. This clan of seven siblings seems to be plagued with family drama, as well as being magnets for trouble. The story was slow to evolve and multi-layered with family strife, intrigue, old and new resentments, and lots of tension. The family tree now branches out in several directions, crossing rival borders and complicating alliances. The storyline was tense and angsty with hits of clever humor and sizzling sensuality. I remained intrigued with this complicated family and interested in how the story would resolve.

[Susan (susayq ~) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another winner for this series! Cillian O'Malley was the perfect man....he was sweet and loving with Olivia and Hadley, but when they were threatened, he turned into a ruthless killer. LOVED IT!

As with the previous book, you get some family stuff going on. This poor family is falling apart at the seams. I can't wait for Sloan's book. She's so scared and fragile. I can't imagine that she will do well on her own, nor that her father will let her get away from the family.

I kind of wish there had been an epilogue to this. I guess we will get to see more of Cillian and Olivia later on in the series though since Katee Robert does an amazing job of including all the siblings in each book.

*Thanks to the publisher and Barclay PR for sharing a copy of this with me*

[Andrea Peralta · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't really like Cellian on the previous books, I still like his story well enough but definitely not as much as Teagues or Carrigans. This story redeems him as a character by learning how not to be a selfish asshole. Protecting Olivia and her daughter give him a purpose.
I truly don't like Sloan character, I find her to be weak and a bit of a nuisance in the first three books. I will not be reading her story, I don't think it would make a difference in the great scheme of things.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was in the mood for a darker,  mafia likr romance, and although I haven't read the rest of the O'Malley series, when I saw Twisted Secrets at the bookstore I know it would be what I wanted.

I love a good underbelly of society romance. There's something so good about love being found among ear and violence. Olivia and Cillianare fire and a match. She wants to leave it all behind, and he's realizing the dangers of being who he is. They both have a heavy weight on their shoulders, and and demons chasing them. But together they might be able to find peace again.

I really liked the dynamic between the characters. The tension was so good, and the energy they brought could be physically felt.

I particularly liked that although there was violence [to be expected in a mob romance] it wasn't gruesome. I wasn't in the mood for gruesomeness, so it was perfect

[Zoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Steamy, charged, and action-packed!

Twisted Secrets is a dramatic, spicy tale that features the independent Olivia Rashidi, who, after growing up as the illegitimate child of Russian mob boss Andrei Romanov, is determined to do whatever it takes to keep her daughter away from the family business, even if it means having to ask for help from the sexy, broody Cillian O’Malley who is not only part of a prominent crime family himself but more than capable of breaking her heart while protecting her life.

The writing is sultry and intense. The characters are troubled, hesitant, and driven. And the plot is a tight, tantalizing tale full of desire, temptation, chemistry, uncertainty, danger, deception, violence, sizzling romance, familial drama, secrets, and organized crime.

Overall, Twisted Secrets is a hot, edgy, suspenseful addition to the O’Malleys series by Robert that has all the elements I’ve come to know and love in her novels, including a fierce heroine, an attentive alpha male, and a fast-paced, seductive, can’t-get-enough-of storyline.

Previously published as The Indecent Proposal.

Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Gwen Carl!! · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read so many Katee Robert books that is hard to think of creative different reviews for each because in the end they are all similar but that is exactly what I want, if I am looking for a spicy romance with interesting plot devices I know exactly which author to turn to. This series is so good all of the characters have different and distinct personalities which makes me love them so much more. And like always the spice always hits so well.

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

Adorable (I'm running out of synonyms for cute already) mafia romance.

[Kristyn - Reading to Unwind · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book contains adult themes.

This is the third book in the O’Malley series by Katee Robert and follows Cillian the third oldest brother of the O’Malley family as he is trying to get his life together.

Cillian has the bad boy reputation of the family since his younger wild days. Cillian is working on getting his life together, but struggling with the death of his youngest brother Devlin that is a major focus of the series. Cillian ends up meeting a woman he becomes infatuated with named Olivia who is a bartender at a bar in the O’Malley territory. Cillian has always been the screw up so now he needs to convenience everyone he has grown up because he is infatuated with Olivia. Cillian’s POV of his family and the feelings that go along with that help to keep the story moving along and the reader wanting more.

Olivia has a darker past then she lets on. She is trying to stay out of trouble and away from everyone while raising her child, but her past is still lurking around the corner. Olivia is a member of the Romanov family from NY and her brother wants more out of her. Olivia is a very complex character that the author does a great job creating. I love that we get to see Olivia’s POV during the story because helps to give us a backstory as well get her current feelings. Olivia’s main goal is keeping her child safe and in turn she is always keeping her guard up.

The romance that develops between Cillian and Olivia is a slow burning one. Olivia is so guarded she doesn’t want to let Cillian in, but realizes that maybe he isn’t the bad guy. They take their time to get to know one another and learn about each other. Cillian grows into a new character during this book and realizes exactly what he wants in life and how he needs to achieve that.

The drama that we get in this story isn’t fully focused on the O’Malley versus everyone idea, but more on the danger specifically Olivia is in. I enjoyed learning more about the Romanov group in this book and seeing what the Romanov’s want. The drama comes quick towards the middle of the book and carries throughout the rest of the book. I love the slower build up to a relationship prior to the drama hitting so that as a reader I could fall in love with the characters.

I would suggest this as a weekend read. I enjoy reading the O’Malley series and find it challenging to put this book down. The story is fast paced in nature and an interesting read. Towards the middle half the action picks up and it became challenging to put down as I wanted to know what was going to happen.

[Deniz · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5STARS

I think I gotta start with the fact that for once I've actually been super good and read the series in order. Which is a feat for me, hence I feel it needs some mention. But saying that.. you actually don't have to. Each book could stand on it's own. So if you like me, don't care for minor spoilers- then, go ahead and read which ever book appeals to you most first. Then again, there are the minor spoilers. But more importantly Robert prepares her readers for the next books, with POV of the following characters...
Anyway, I have read all of the O'Malley book thus far. And I am looking forward to the next one. In fact I actually am desperate to get my hands on Aidens book. But let's me not get ahead of myself. (or the author there hasn't even been said there would be a book for him)

I am still totally into the irish mob theme and Boston. In fact Robert is extending it to other places , which I wholeheartedly approve of. I like the dark and gritty backdrop, the ruthless world that this is set in.
I like the hard choices the characters have to make. The power games behind moves, loyalty and all that.
I have honestly not a clue if this is at all accurate and has anything to do with the real life mob scene in the states- in fact after finishing it I started googling, and I think it does certainly touch on reality- but I decided I don't really care, I like to think that Robert did a smashing job at it, and that this is as real as it gets.

The romance was a lot insta but also a lot slow and intense. So while not really my cup of tea, also totally down my alley.
The plot is fast paced and has plenty of action. I enjoyed the storyline.
The character building is interesting. I mostly liked it, with some minor exceptions. Robert is carving out a group of people and a scene slowly over the cause of the series this far, that feels quite real.
I love Cillian. He has been my favorite character from the start and An Indecent Proposal just reinforced that.
Olivia came across as a petulante brat in the beginning, but soon I ended up liking her and more importantly I got where she was coming from.
I like the support cast as well. Robert is slowly adding layers to side characters we met before and I am immensely enjoying that.
There are two exception to this however: The first is Sergei- just too over the top for me. His actions at the end made little sense. He went against everything he was supposed to be, every action he had taken before that point. I get revenge and all that, but the way he was toward Dmitri was over the top considering this happened in a matter of a few days.
The second Hadley. On the one hand she seems way older and on the other not old enough. I didn't get the feel of a girl her age. She felt like a token rather than an actual character. A fact that really grated on me.
Then there is the smut... I am not a huge fan of lots of smut - and this one has less then the previous one ( =happy deniz) buuuut it's not really for me. It's to slambang in the alley for me. Saying that however, I also have to say, that I am aware that I will be one of the very very few who feel like that. Most people with love it. It's hot and heavy and sexy.

I think this is my favourite book in the series so far. And while I wasn't sure I'll be all excited for Sloan's book.. Well, I can't wait to get my hands on it now!!

[nick (the infinite limits of love) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so in love with Katee Robert's O'Malley series. Katee Robert is at her best here and with every book, I keep acquiring more book boyfriends and more romances to swoon over. As much as I loved the first two books, I think An Indecent Proposal is my favorite in the series so far.

The main reason why this is my favorite is Cillian. I didn't think I could love him more than Teague from the first book, but he totally swept me away. I fell hard for this guy and he gave me all kinds of butterflies. Cillian is suffering through the guilt of his beloved brother's death. Katee Robert did such a fantastic job with making his emotions jump off the pages. You feel for this guy and you want to do everything in your power to help him get through the grief and regret that he feels for the indirect part he played in his brother's death. The sadness, the nightmares broke my heart for this big guy. The fact that no one in his family wanted to address the elephant in the room wasn't helping him heal either. The only bright spot in his life? The spunky bartender, Olivia.

Olivia was a fantastic heroine too. I loved her as much as I loved Callie and Carrigan, from the previous books. She was running away from her own issues, together with her 14 months daughter. Olivia was a strong character. To outsiders, she gave off this tough, invulnerable and impenetrable exterior, but she was a very caring and hardworking woman, who wanted to shower her daughter with love and allow her to grow up far from her Russian mob half-brother. Unfortunately for her, her ex and her half-brother are keeping an eye on her and are forcing her to join the family. I was so happy that Olivia had Cillian and vice versa, because these two definitely needed each other.

The romance between these two was sooooo good. I loved it so much. They have a lot of attraction between them and as much as Olivia tries to push Cillian away in the beginning, he refuses to give up on her (in a non-creepy way). I loved that he was so determined to gain her affections, but only at her own pace. I loved that their romance was slow-burn and they became so emotionally acquainted with each other. The chemistry between them was fantastic and I got feel the heat the two shared - all the sexy scenes were very well-written! But I loved the scenes of them connecting together emotionally even better. What a wonderfully swoony and deliciously romantic story these two had!

There's a plot here involving Olivia's ex and her half-brother, Dmitri. It wasn't as suspenseful as the first book, in my opinion, but the stakes were still high, given how ruthless and violent Olivia and Cillian's families were. Speaking of Dmitri, I'm so intrigued by his character. He definitely has villainous shades to him, but he also surprised me in a good way with his behavior from time to time. He needs a spunky girl to calm him down! ;) We also get to see snippets of chapters told in Sloane's POV. Her book is next and I'm ridiculously excited to get to it.

Katee Robert is truly at her best here with this series. With every installment of the series, I seem to fall harder in love with her books. If you like your books with lots of romance and a dash of suspense, I highly recommend this series!

[Flavia 🌙 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ 3🌶️

This man is THE definition of if he wanted to he would and I will die on this hill!!! It’s truly books like these that make one realize how low our standards have fallen 😩😩

It’s Katee Robert and it’s the O’Malleys series. I’ve yet to read something by her I haven’t loved and this series is no exception. So far every single book has been terrific. This one has not surpassed one or two for me but it was still such a good read!!

There’s so much chemistry, I love that it was established early on in the series too because thing move at a quicker pace so they don’t feel so insta lovey. Cilian is a freaking sweetheart and I love him so much!! I wanted to story to go on for a little longer when the ending came. The tension was great, the spice was even better. Love seeing single mothers represented. It was satisfying the way thing concluded and it’s left me all the more excited to see where the rest of the siblings will end up!!