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Venomous Gods #4
Corrupted Heart
A blisteringly steamy, Dark Mafia, Forced Marriage, Grumpy/Sunshine standalone romance by bestselling author, Jagger Cole.
I taunted a monster. Now I’m caught in his claws.
He was only supposed to be a faceless fantasy.
A masked man from the app to enact my darkest, most depraved impulses with.
But I played games with the wrong stranger, and caught the attention of a psychopath.
Because Kratos Drakos isn’t just Greek Mafia royalty. He’s not just lethally powerful, physically massive, and dangerously gorgeous.
I’ve seen what lurks beneath his mask: a beast with a primal taste for chasing, catching, and corrupting.
Now, to stop a mafia war, I’m being wed to that very monster.
But the deeper I’m drawn into Kratos’ twisted reality, the more I realize one thing:
The most dangerous game you can play with a psychopath isn’t running away.
It’s falling for one.
Corrupted Heart is astandalone dark mafia, forced marriage romance with a smart, untamable heroine, and an ultra possessive psycho hero with "look at her and I'll unalive you" energy. Readers are STRONGLY advised to read the TW inside. No cliffhanger; HEA included.
I taunted a monster. Now I’m caught in his claws.
He was only supposed to be a faceless fantasy.
A masked man from the app to enact my darkest, most depraved impulses with.
But I played games with the wrong stranger, and caught the attention of a psychopath.
Because Kratos Drakos isn’t just Greek Mafia royalty. He’s not just lethally powerful, physically massive, and dangerously gorgeous.
I’ve seen what lurks beneath his mask: a beast with a primal taste for chasing, catching, and corrupting.
Now, to stop a mafia war, I’m being wed to that very monster.
But the deeper I’m drawn into Kratos’ twisted reality, the more I realize one thing:
The most dangerous game you can play with a psychopath isn’t running away.
It’s falling for one.
Corrupted Heart is astandalone dark mafia, forced marriage romance with a smart, untamable heroine, and an ultra possessive psycho hero with "look at her and I'll unalive you" energy. Readers are STRONGLY advised to read the TW inside. No cliffhanger; HEA included.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2024
2869 people are currently reading
7200 people want to read
About the author
Jagger Cole
74 books5,337 followersA reader first and foremost, Jagger Cole cut his romance writing teeth penning various fan-fiction stories years ago. After deciding to hang up his writing boots, Jagger worked in advertising pretending to be Don Draper. It worked enough to convince a woman way out of his league to marry him, though, which is a total win.
Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.
When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside—rain or shine.
You can find all of his books at www.jaggercolewrites.com
Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter! -> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8rld1ik3sd
Now, Dad to two little princesses and King to a Queen, Jagger is thrilled to be back at the keyboard.
When not writing or reading romance books, he can be found woodworking, enjoying good whiskey, and grilling outside—rain or shine.
You can find all of his books at www.jaggercolewrites.com
Grab a FREE book for joining my fans-only newsletter! -> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/8rld1ik3sd
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 752 reviews
June 10, 2024
I really like this book!
It took me days to read because I didn’t have time!
I loved the characters.
It’s worth reading.
It took me days to read because I didn’t have time!
I loved the characters.
It’s worth reading.
October 14, 2025
I’m obsessed, this book was so good 🥵😮💨
Save me, Pull me from the darkness. I fell in love with your light.
Save me, Pull me from the darkness. I fell in love with your light.
May 26, 2024
Corrupted Heart by Jagger Cole
5/5 stars
Jagger Cole, this is my first book of yours. And f*** you made me an addict! I am going to devour all your books! I love the fast pace. I love how hot, dark and creepily delicious Corrupted Heart was! This book was pure fire and I will definitely reread it many times in the future. After reading a lot of 'sweet' romantic novels this was definitely what I needed. And I know my heart lies in this genre. Nothing beats a simmering hot dark romance.
The book starts with Bianca reading a true crime novel in her bed. Alicia and Irena invite her to go with them. They aren't really friends. But she tries to give them a chance. But as soon as they arrive at the location it turns out to be a drugs deal. Alicia's boyfriend Grisha ordered her to make the deal. But quickly things to awry and the two men refuse to pay and try to rape Bianca. Alicia and Irena flee and drive off in their car leaving Bianca alone. But before they actually rape Bianca a beast of a man comes to the scene and brutally kills the two men. Bianca is immensely drawn to him and he makes her body simmer. He asks her what did you see? Nothing she exclaims scared and turned on. And he lets her go.
And that is what kickstarts this scorchingly hot book. A need is lid within Bianca and she takes steps to get that need fulfilled.
And when she is in contact with RaisedByWolves... her needs explode. And damn, I love, love, loved it!
"Say it, babygirl," he snarls in my ear. You know the word. Say it, and this all stops. Me haunting your shadows. My control over you... Say the word, Bianca," he growls darkly.
I'm not going to say it. I can't. I need this darkness.
I just love how dark and passionate this book is. But what I love most is how intense this book is. How their need for each other overflows anything else. I know lots of books have that. But in this book it felt every more intense. I felt it burn within me. I love how they crawl inside one another and how fierce and unconditional it is.
"I had every right!" I roar.
"Why?!" she hurls back. "Because you own me now, since we're getting married? Or because-"
"Because you're going to be my fucking wife! And no one..." I hiss through clenched teeth. "No one touches you but me."
In a heartbeat, I eradicate the distance between her mouth and mine. And suddenly, for the very first time, I'm kissing her.
I also loved both their families. I love the Bratva/mafia aspect of this book. How raw and fierce they all are. How protective they are. And how love and family actually matters.
Grandmother Ya-ya just has my heart.
And the climax of the book. The action that Bianca takes, so fast, unthinkingly had my entire heart. My lord, she stole something inside of me. I am madly and utterly in love with both Kratos and Bianca.
5 humongous stars from me for this brilliant book!
5/5 stars
Jagger Cole, this is my first book of yours. And f*** you made me an addict! I am going to devour all your books! I love the fast pace. I love how hot, dark and creepily delicious Corrupted Heart was! This book was pure fire and I will definitely reread it many times in the future. After reading a lot of 'sweet' romantic novels this was definitely what I needed. And I know my heart lies in this genre. Nothing beats a simmering hot dark romance.
The book starts with Bianca reading a true crime novel in her bed. Alicia and Irena invite her to go with them. They aren't really friends. But she tries to give them a chance. But as soon as they arrive at the location it turns out to be a drugs deal. Alicia's boyfriend Grisha ordered her to make the deal. But quickly things to awry and the two men refuse to pay and try to rape Bianca. Alicia and Irena flee and drive off in their car leaving Bianca alone. But before they actually rape Bianca a beast of a man comes to the scene and brutally kills the two men. Bianca is immensely drawn to him and he makes her body simmer. He asks her what did you see? Nothing she exclaims scared and turned on. And he lets her go.
And that is what kickstarts this scorchingly hot book. A need is lid within Bianca and she takes steps to get that need fulfilled.
And when she is in contact with RaisedByWolves... her needs explode. And damn, I love, love, loved it!
"Say it, babygirl," he snarls in my ear. You know the word. Say it, and this all stops. Me haunting your shadows. My control over you... Say the word, Bianca," he growls darkly.
I'm not going to say it. I can't. I need this darkness.
I just love how dark and passionate this book is. But what I love most is how intense this book is. How their need for each other overflows anything else. I know lots of books have that. But in this book it felt every more intense. I felt it burn within me. I love how they crawl inside one another and how fierce and unconditional it is.
"I had every right!" I roar.
"Why?!" she hurls back. "Because you own me now, since we're getting married? Or because-"
"Because you're going to be my fucking wife! And no one..." I hiss through clenched teeth. "No one touches you but me."
In a heartbeat, I eradicate the distance between her mouth and mine. And suddenly, for the very first time, I'm kissing her.
I also loved both their families. I love the Bratva/mafia aspect of this book. How raw and fierce they all are. How protective they are. And how love and family actually matters.
Grandmother Ya-ya just has my heart.
And the climax of the book. The action that Bianca takes, so fast, unthinkingly had my entire heart. My lord, she stole something inside of me. I am madly and utterly in love with both Kratos and Bianca.
5 humongous stars from me for this brilliant book!
June 8, 2024
5++ stars!
Corrupted Heart was captivating, dark and kinky in all the ways that Jagger is known for with an intense emotional element that took hold of my soul and didn't let go until the end. Finally getting Kratos' story was an experience that I have been waiting for and Jagger delivered in more ways than one. Bittersweet and passionate, I loved Bianca and Kratos' romance.
Kratos and Bianca are thrust together for alliance purposes but the two of them have past trauma that has created a darkness in them and their demons are content to play together in harmony.
In a time of turmoil, trouble and tenuous alliances, Bianca and Kratos must not only navigate their new marriage but also the danger surrounding them that will surely bite back soon. The question is will Kratos and Bianca come out unscathed?
I loved Kratos...his past is horrific but it has molded him into the fiercely protective and dominate psychopath he is today that was a perfect match for Bianca. Was he soft and kind? Absolutely not. But I wouldn't have wanted him any other way. His nature is violent and obsessive and I loved the deviant devotion he had for Bianca and the life they started to build. The intimacy between them was probably the darkest and kinkiest of all the books I have read from Jagger but is also probably my favorite. Their love was savage and yet I could feel the passion radiating from their connection at all times.
Bianca may have appeared more timid and complacent but she was anything but and her adoration and loyalty to Kratos even when it was tested was so beautiful. She pushed all of Kratos' buttons and he was happy to let it happen because she knew how to speak to his heart in ways that were healing. Bianca was a heroine you'll cheer for!
Jagger has done an amazing job with this series and expertly woven an action packed and suspenseful story with enough heat to melt your heart and Kindle. I can't wait for what's next!
ARC provided by Valentine PR for an honest review
Corrupted Heart was captivating, dark and kinky in all the ways that Jagger is known for with an intense emotional element that took hold of my soul and didn't let go until the end. Finally getting Kratos' story was an experience that I have been waiting for and Jagger delivered in more ways than one. Bittersweet and passionate, I loved Bianca and Kratos' romance.
"Copper and salt. Lust and need. Danger and excitement. Heaven and hell. That's what we taste like together."
Kratos and Bianca are thrust together for alliance purposes but the two of them have past trauma that has created a darkness in them and their demons are content to play together in harmony.
"I look forward to hunting you and listening to you squeal as you take my cock in every slutty little hole you have, Brokenbee."
In a time of turmoil, trouble and tenuous alliances, Bianca and Kratos must not only navigate their new marriage but also the danger surrounding them that will surely bite back soon. The question is will Kratos and Bianca come out unscathed?
I loved Kratos...his past is horrific but it has molded him into the fiercely protective and dominate psychopath he is today that was a perfect match for Bianca. Was he soft and kind? Absolutely not. But I wouldn't have wanted him any other way. His nature is violent and obsessive and I loved the deviant devotion he had for Bianca and the life they started to build. The intimacy between them was probably the darkest and kinkiest of all the books I have read from Jagger but is also probably my favorite. Their love was savage and yet I could feel the passion radiating from their connection at all times.
"Mmmm, babygirl," he rasps darkly. "Your pussy smells like fear and candy. I'm going to enjoy devouring you,"
Bianca may have appeared more timid and complacent but she was anything but and her adoration and loyalty to Kratos even when it was tested was so beautiful. She pushed all of Kratos' buttons and he was happy to let it happen because she knew how to speak to his heart in ways that were healing. Bianca was a heroine you'll cheer for!
Jagger has done an amazing job with this series and expertly woven an action packed and suspenseful story with enough heat to melt your heart and Kindle. I can't wait for what's next!
ARC provided by Valentine PR for an honest review
May 19, 2024
♾️/5
4/5🌶️
I am UNWELL.
ALL THE FREAKING STARS.
I think I just found my new favorite Jagger book & that’s saying something because I love them all. Jagger is one author who just consistently releases banger after banger. 5 stars across the board.
If you love arranged marriage & masked men… you will absolutely devour this book. Kratos is so unhinged & I loved every single second of him & Bianca’s story.
“𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆’𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒆: 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒐𝒖𝒕, 𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒎 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒕. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓.”
Thank you to Jagger & VPR for the ARC. Be sure to check TW’s before diving into this one!
Tropes:
- Dark, Mafia Romance
- Forced/Arranged Marriage
- Masked, Possessive MMC
- She’s a Ballerina
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Enemies to Lovers
- Rival Families
- Stalker
- Touch Her & Die
- Virgin FMC
- Primal Play/CNC
- Praise & Degradation
- Knife Play 🤭
4/5🌶️
I am UNWELL.
ALL THE FREAKING STARS.
I think I just found my new favorite Jagger book & that’s saying something because I love them all. Jagger is one author who just consistently releases banger after banger. 5 stars across the board.
If you love arranged marriage & masked men… you will absolutely devour this book. Kratos is so unhinged & I loved every single second of him & Bianca’s story.
“𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆’𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒆: 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒐𝒖𝒕, 𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒎 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒕. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓.”
Thank you to Jagger & VPR for the ARC. Be sure to check TW’s before diving into this one!
Tropes:
- Dark, Mafia Romance
- Forced/Arranged Marriage
- Masked, Possessive MMC
- She’s a Ballerina
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Enemies to Lovers
- Rival Families
- Stalker
- Touch Her & Die
- Virgin FMC
- Primal Play/CNC
- Praise & Degradation
- Knife Play 🤭
May 29, 2024
Holy. Shit.
I've heard Jagger Cole is unmatched with his dark graphic detail he adds to his romance. But I wasn't expecting it to be THAT good.
Kratos is literally crazy af. Some would say even a psychopath. And then Bianca gets unexpectedly thrown into his life. Initially they have a chance encounter and then he's chasing her around an abandoned Gothic church with the only intent of pleasure when he catches her.
I didn't realize I liked the mask man thing. But this was hot af. It's hot and dark AND sweet. Just sweet only for her which we like 🥵
I HIGHLY recommend and I'm fully in agreeance with the Jagger Cole obsession. It's well deserved!
Thank you Valentine PR for this Arc!
I've heard Jagger Cole is unmatched with his dark graphic detail he adds to his romance. But I wasn't expecting it to be THAT good.
Kratos is literally crazy af. Some would say even a psychopath. And then Bianca gets unexpectedly thrown into his life. Initially they have a chance encounter and then he's chasing her around an abandoned Gothic church with the only intent of pleasure when he catches her.
I didn't realize I liked the mask man thing. But this was hot af. It's hot and dark AND sweet. Just sweet only for her which we like 🥵
I HIGHLY recommend and I'm fully in agreeance with the Jagger Cole obsession. It's well deserved!
Thank you Valentine PR for this Arc!
August 14, 2024
disappointed
August 27, 2024
This started out somewhat okay but boy did it get progressively worse as time went on.
1. If you’re marketing a book as a marriage of convenience or a forced marriage book, then why the actual hell is the main couple only getting married 60% of the way in. I freaking hate when authors do that. If it’s a MOC then I expect said marriage to happen early on in the story.
2. Absolutely no character development. The main couple goes from having a truce to exchanging “I love yous” out of nowhere.
3. Having a male lead say that he has a “monster” and constantly refer to said monster has got to be one of the cringiest things I’ve ever read.
4. Is it me or did she never acc tell her husband that it was Grisha who forced her to blow up the car? I feel like sooo many things were mentioned once and then never really discussed again.
5. A bit over 70% into the book the FMC reaches out to another man because she wants to cheat. She backs out at the last second but for me, that alone can make a book go from 5 stars to 1 star. She also does it because the antagonist in the book tells her that she slept with Kratos. Without even asking her husband about the situation, Bianca decides to get payback 🫠
1. If you’re marketing a book as a marriage of convenience or a forced marriage book, then why the actual hell is the main couple only getting married 60% of the way in. I freaking hate when authors do that. If it’s a MOC then I expect said marriage to happen early on in the story.
2. Absolutely no character development. The main couple goes from having a truce to exchanging “I love yous” out of nowhere.
3. Having a male lead say that he has a “monster” and constantly refer to said monster has got to be one of the cringiest things I’ve ever read.
4. Is it me or did she never acc tell her husband that it was Grisha who forced her to blow up the car? I feel like sooo many things were mentioned once and then never really discussed again.
5. A bit over 70% into the book the FMC reaches out to another man because she wants to cheat. She backs out at the last second but for me, that alone can make a book go from 5 stars to 1 star. She also does it because the antagonist in the book tells her that she slept with Kratos. Without even asking her husband about the situation, Bianca decides to get payback 🫠
July 21, 2024
[dnf @ 35%] i’m NEVER reading a romance book written by a man ever again
May 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this, it was written well, the plot was great and always kept you guessing and the character development was on point.
I love a strong willed FMC and Bianca’s development made me smile.
I loved Kratos and Bianca’s relationship and watching it develop. There were a few times I felt like my heart was going to beat out of my chest I was so captivated by the story.
Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I love a strong willed FMC and Bianca’s development made me smile.
I loved Kratos and Bianca’s relationship and watching it develop. There were a few times I felt like my heart was going to beat out of my chest I was so captivated by the story.
Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
May 28, 2024
3.5⭐ / 4🌶️
— vibezz
🃏 rival families
🩰 forced arranged marriage
🃏 tag game in an old church iykyk 👀
🩰 lots of "mine/my wife"
🃏 cnc
mini blurb — ✍🏻
Bianca finds herself in a complicated situation when an outing with her friends from ballet suddenly became a drop-off and almost a SA attempt if it wasn't for a mysterious giant of a man in a mask that saves her. That night was the start that really changed her life, from awakening something in her that she dare not even thought about it to despite being born in a less than "normal" family, having a more active role in the criminal underground, willing or not. That why, she's now about to marry to avoid a war between families she may had a part started up.
//
It was good, I tried not to have higher expectation, but the first half was a little slow? not much happening in the plot and suddenly I was like 70% into the book asking myself where the plot was going since the "big" revelations where made at the end of it.
Look, I'm not a super big fan of this time of romance but it had those cute "mine" and "my wife" moments it made me swoon, and honestly Kratos was a huge teddy bear with a slightly murderous undertone lmao.
Although I could do without the little mission impossible scene at DK house with the helicopter 😬 why not just give him a call and avoid the unnecessary action movie ugh
And now bc I wanna end this with a positive note, here next MMC I cannot wait to know about 👀🛐
Ghost's voice in my head 24/7, it's a disease at this point.
✌️ I'm going to Vito's for his "improved" cacio & pepe now, bye
— vibezz
🃏 rival families
🩰 forced arranged marriage
🃏 tag game in an old church iykyk 👀
🩰 lots of "mine/my wife"
🃏 cnc
mini blurb — ✍🏻
Bianca finds herself in a complicated situation when an outing with her friends from ballet suddenly became a drop-off and almost a SA attempt if it wasn't for a mysterious giant of a man in a mask that saves her. That night was the start that really changed her life, from awakening something in her that she dare not even thought about it to despite being born in a less than "normal" family, having a more active role in the criminal underground, willing or not. That why, she's now about to marry to avoid a war between families she may had a part started up.
//
It was good, I tried not to have higher expectation, but the first half was a little slow? not much happening in the plot and suddenly I was like 70% into the book asking myself where the plot was going since the "big" revelations where made at the end of it.
Look, I'm not a super big fan of this time of romance but it had those cute "mine" and "my wife" moments it made me swoon, and honestly Kratos was a huge teddy bear with a slightly murderous undertone lmao.
Although I could do without the little mission impossible scene at DK house with the helicopter 😬 why not just give him a call and avoid the unnecessary action movie ugh
And now bc I wanna end this with a positive note, here next MMC I cannot wait to know about 👀🛐
“—What I engage in, Kratos,” he says coldly, his voice venomous, “isn’t a pissing contest. It’s guerrilla fucking warfare. And you haven’t a single goddamn idea of my history with these people, or what goes on in my heart.”COD ruined me 🫠🫠
Ghost's voice in my head 24/7, it's a disease at this point.
✌️ I'm going to Vito's for his "improved" cacio & pepe now, bye
June 6, 2024
Kratos…. WOW . I had high hopes for this one and they were blown wayyy out of the water.
Kratos and Bianca have a different type of relationship… she is looking for someone to chase her and Kratos is looking for someone to chase.. after one night of absolute chaos and Kratos coming to her rescue he sets his eyes on her and doesn’t let her go.
These two have a purely sexual relationship unless all hell breaks loose and their families have to come together to stop a war on the streets and the only way to stop it is if they get married.
I loved this story so much. The kinks, Kratos backstory, their blossoming relationship, and Jagger’s writing is literally everything.
Tropes:
-arranged marriage
-primal/ CNC play
-he’s her monster
-forced proximity
-she runs, he chases
-he falls first and harder
Kratos and Bianca have a different type of relationship… she is looking for someone to chase her and Kratos is looking for someone to chase.. after one night of absolute chaos and Kratos coming to her rescue he sets his eyes on her and doesn’t let her go.
These two have a purely sexual relationship unless all hell breaks loose and their families have to come together to stop a war on the streets and the only way to stop it is if they get married.
I loved this story so much. The kinks, Kratos backstory, their blossoming relationship, and Jagger’s writing is literally everything.
Tropes:
-arranged marriage
-primal/ CNC play
-he’s her monster
-forced proximity
-she runs, he chases
-he falls first and harder
May 23, 2024
I've said it once and I'll say it again, I don't think that Jagger Cole can write a bad book. He just knows exactly what we want and he delivers every single time but still manages to add twists and turns to keep you on the hook and just craving more! The story between Kratos and Bianca is definitely my favourite of the series and I loved it right from the get go.
What to expect: Italian mafia x Greek mafia, enemies to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, forced marriage, stalker, touch her and d!3 vibes, primal & CNC play // 5 🌟 4 🌶️
I have eagerly been awaiting Kratos' story throughout reading the Dark Hearts series. He is the last one to settle down, and oof he really met his match with good girl, mafia princess ballerina, Bianca. She took me by ABSOLUTE surprise. I loved her; I loved them together and how their darkness matched each other's. They didn't shy away from being vulnerable with each other, showing their true and authentic selves and I loved how Bianca could be that person for Kratos, seeming that he kept his true self under wraps from everyone else. Their connection was so beautiful and it is one of my favourites. They had so many sweet and swoony moments which just showed how comfortable they were with each other; being able to let their guards down. Ugh, I just loved them.
I was incredibly happy to see little snippets of the other Drakos siblings, as well as the Barrone's. I love how Jagger interconnects his worlds; it is truly flawless. I cannot WAIT for Taylor and Drazen's story; I feel like we've been teased with them both for SO LONG!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Jagger Cole for the opportunity to read and review this book early. It is truly a pleasure every single time!
What to expect: Italian mafia x Greek mafia, enemies to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, forced marriage, stalker, touch her and d!3 vibes, primal & CNC play // 5 🌟 4 🌶️
I have eagerly been awaiting Kratos' story throughout reading the Dark Hearts series. He is the last one to settle down, and oof he really met his match with good girl, mafia princess ballerina, Bianca. She took me by ABSOLUTE surprise. I loved her; I loved them together and how their darkness matched each other's. They didn't shy away from being vulnerable with each other, showing their true and authentic selves and I loved how Bianca could be that person for Kratos, seeming that he kept his true self under wraps from everyone else. Their connection was so beautiful and it is one of my favourites. They had so many sweet and swoony moments which just showed how comfortable they were with each other; being able to let their guards down. Ugh, I just loved them.
I was incredibly happy to see little snippets of the other Drakos siblings, as well as the Barrone's. I love how Jagger interconnects his worlds; it is truly flawless. I cannot WAIT for Taylor and Drazen's story; I feel like we've been teased with them both for SO LONG!
Thank you to Valentine PR and Jagger Cole for the opportunity to read and review this book early. It is truly a pleasure every single time!
May 29, 2024
Pub day eARC review 🖤
𝘊𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘶𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘑𝘢𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘦
♾️⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️
Hooooooly sh*t. Very rarely do I say a book is a masterpiece. This book? IS ABSOLUTELY ONE OF THEM.
Kratos, Kratos, Kratos… we’ve been waiting for you. And you sir, blew our minds and expectations!!!! This is the 4th book in the Venemous Gods series, but he’s the final sibling of the Dark Hearts series.
Kratos is DARK. He’s got a very dark past to make him the way that he is. Bianca also has darkness within her from things that have happened to her in the past, even though on the outside she’s a beautiful professional ballerina.
Together, they’re able to bond and come together over their shared interests and unfortunate traumas. Thanks to a (not so cute) meet forced by his hand, they discover they’re definitely a match. And when it comes down to her being forced to marry him to keep an alliance? She’ll do it to save her family.
THE SPICE. Strap yourselves in for this ride. Proceed at your own caution because pr!mal, CNC and masks are all involved here. I’m not even a DARK dark romance girl, and I ate this one up. 🤭
Tropes: vigilante of sorts • enemies to lovers • schmink club • masked men • forced marriage • forced proximity • trauma bonding • MY WIFE • check TW’s ‼️
Thank you so much Jagger and Valentine PR for letting me read this early!!!
𝘊𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘶𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘑𝘢𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘦
♾️⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️
Hooooooly sh*t. Very rarely do I say a book is a masterpiece. This book? IS ABSOLUTELY ONE OF THEM.
Kratos, Kratos, Kratos… we’ve been waiting for you. And you sir, blew our minds and expectations!!!! This is the 4th book in the Venemous Gods series, but he’s the final sibling of the Dark Hearts series.
Kratos is DARK. He’s got a very dark past to make him the way that he is. Bianca also has darkness within her from things that have happened to her in the past, even though on the outside she’s a beautiful professional ballerina.
Together, they’re able to bond and come together over their shared interests and unfortunate traumas. Thanks to a (not so cute) meet forced by his hand, they discover they’re definitely a match. And when it comes down to her being forced to marry him to keep an alliance? She’ll do it to save her family.
THE SPICE. Strap yourselves in for this ride. Proceed at your own caution because pr!mal, CNC and masks are all involved here. I’m not even a DARK dark romance girl, and I ate this one up. 🤭
Tropes: vigilante of sorts • enemies to lovers • schmink club • masked men • forced marriage • forced proximity • trauma bonding • MY WIFE • check TW’s ‼️
Thank you so much Jagger and Valentine PR for letting me read this early!!!
February 8, 2025
Це поки що найкраща книга з цієї серії.💎
Вона така гаряча, що аж палає, змусила мене капець як червоніти.🫣
Кратос🧎♀️
Пара: Кратос & Б'янка
Тропи:
⋆ Грецька та італійська мафія
⋆ Вимушений шлюб😏
⋆ Touch Her & Die
⋆ Конкуруючі сім'ї
⋆ Сталкер
⋆ grumpy x sunshine
⋆ Primal Play/CNC
⋆ Praise & Degradation
Книга починається з того, що Б’янка, занурена в читання справжнього кримінального роману. Раптово Алісія та Ірена пропонують їй приєднатися до них. Вони не справжні подруги, але Б’янка вирішує дати їм шанс. Однак, коли вони прибувають на місце, з'ясовується, що це угода з наркотиками, організована за наказом хлопця Алісії.
Все швидко виходить з-під контролю – двоє чоловіків відмовляються платити й намагаються зґвалтувати Б’янку. Алісія та Ірена в паніці тікають, кидаючи її напризволяще. Але перш ніж злочинці встигають здійснити задумане, з’являється загадковий і жорстокий звір, який безжально вбиває їх.
Б’янка відчуває непереборне тяжіння до нього – його присутність змушує її кров кипіти.
Але їх взаємодія не закінчується тим вечером.
У Б'янки є темні бажання, які вона хотіла б дослідити.
Так як її брат має клуб Venomous, вона розуміє що це не варіант.
Але поки його немає дома, вона користується його ноутбуком, та робить собі анкету, в застосунку цього клубу, який нещодавно впровадив її брат.
Там вона розписує свої бажання, і ось буквальн за декілька хвилин для не її знаходять пару.
Вона переписується з чим чоловіком, і домовляється на зустріч, але в цей момент, її подруги витягають в бар. Тому вона вимушена скасувати зустріч.
Але цей чоловік не згоден з її рішенням.
Як на мене Кратос найромантичніший чоловік, хоч він і говорив що не здатен на ніжність, поцілунки та обійми. Його вчинки казали інше.
Момент там де він готував для неї іспанські страви, і вона почала танцювати, і він приєднався до неї. Це було реально найромантичніше що я читала.🥹
Трохи цитат:
Короче книга, дуже крута, герої мені сподобались, по сюжету теж питань немає.
Рекомендую!❤️🔥
Вона така гаряча, що аж палає, змусила мене капець як червоніти.🫣
Кратос🧎♀️
Пара: Кратос & Б'янка
Тропи:
⋆ Грецька та італійська мафія
⋆ Вимушений шлюб😏
⋆ Touch Her & Die
⋆ Конкуруючі сім'ї
⋆ Сталкер
⋆ grumpy x sunshine
⋆ Primal Play/CNC
⋆ Praise & Degradation
Книга починається з того, що Б’янка, занурена в читання справжнього кримінального роману. Раптово Алісія та Ірена пропонують їй приєднатися до них. Вони не справжні подруги, але Б’янка вирішує дати їм шанс. Однак, коли вони прибувають на місце, з'ясовується, що це угода з наркотиками, організована за наказом хлопця Алісії.
Все швидко виходить з-під контролю – двоє чоловіків відмовляються платити й намагаються зґвалтувати Б’янку. Алісія та Ірена в паніці тікають, кидаючи її напризволяще. Але перш ніж злочинці встигають здійснити задумане, з’являється загадковий і жорстокий звір, який безжально вбиває їх.
Б’янка відчуває непереборне тяжіння до нього – його присутність змушує її кров кипіти.
Але їх взаємодія не закінчується тим вечером.
У Б'янки є темні бажання, які вона хотіла б дослідити.
Так як її брат має клуб Venomous, вона розуміє що це не варіант.
Але поки його немає дома, вона користується його ноутбуком, та робить собі анкету, в застосунку цього клубу, який нещодавно впровадив її брат.
Там вона розписує свої бажання, і ось буквальн за декілька хвилин для не її знаходять пару.
Вона переписується з чим чоловіком, і домовляється на зустріч, але в цей момент, її подруги витягають в бар. Тому вона вимушена скасувати зустріч.
Але цей чоловік не згоден з її рішенням.
Як на мене Кратос найромантичніший чоловік, хоч він і говорив що не здатен на ніжність, поцілунки та обійми. Його вчинки казали інше.
Момент там де він готував для неї іспанські страви, і вона почала танцювати, і він приєднався до неї. Це було реально найромантичніше що я читала.🥹
Трохи цитат:
"- Думаєш тобі по душі primal play, лялечко? Тоді подивимось, як довго ти блять протримаєшся."
"- Де...
- Тут.
- Ти ж навіть не знаєш про що я хотіла запитати.
- Ти збиралась запитати, де ти будеш спати. І моя відповідь тут, в моєму ліжку."
Короче книга, дуже крута, герої мені сподобались, по сюжету теж питань немає.
Рекомендую!❤️🔥
September 1, 2024
My kind of dark romance story. Hell yeah!
December 18, 2025
DNF'd at 30%
First off, did this guy see Lisa Kleypas's Wallflower universe and said "hold my beer" or something?
Between the five minus one plus a new one Italian Mafia families, the Irish, the Armenians, the Russians and the Greeks, I started to wonder if had picked up a thriller instead of a romance.
Furthermore!
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
First off, did this guy see Lisa Kleypas's Wallflower universe and said "hold my beer" or something?
Between the five minus one plus a new one Italian Mafia families, the Irish, the Armenians, the Russians and the Greeks, I started to wonder if had picked up a thriller instead of a romance.
Furthermore!
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
May 25, 2024
DNF 48%
i just could not get into this book, i found the characters dull, a lack of connection between the characters, and i’m at 48% and the MCs have spent barely any time together. so far most of the book is focused on the the MCs individually and their families.
i just could not get into this book, i found the characters dull, a lack of connection between the characters, and i’m at 48% and the MCs have spent barely any time together. so far most of the book is focused on the the MCs individually and their families.
May 26, 2024
Tragically, no murderous psychos stop me between my apartment and practice.
The fact that I begin that thought with “tragically” is probably grounds for immediately checking myself into a psychiatric ward.
Bianca Sartorre.
As the daughter of Vito Barone, one of the five Italian mafia dons, she is aware of how the mafia works.
When her co-dancers drag her into a drug deal gone wrong, she is almost certain she has met her demise. First, at the hand of the drug dealers who are threatening to sexually assault her. Then, at the hands of the giant who kills said drug dealers.
Unbeknownst to her, the course of her life begins to change that night.
After she survives that fateful night, she now finds herself in trouble with the Bratva and in a sexual relationship with a member of the Greek mafia. Her sexual preferences are of the kind that cannot be talked out loud with just anyone. After all, she has learnt it the hard way. Still, she seems to have finally found someone who is on the same page with her.
When Vito rescinds his promise to not have her enter an arranged mafia marriage, it has the potential to become the best thing that's ever happened to her. Or the worst.
Holy fucking hell.
He might not be completely sadistic. But instantly, it’s clear I have underestimated how psycho this man is.
The thing is, though, I might be just as fucking crazy.
Kratos Drakos.
His father was the sadistic leader of Greek mafia who groomed him to become an enforcer from when he was ten years old. He was willing to do anything to get ahead and, unfortunately, Kratos had to pay the price. While the scars are not visible to the eye, some are forever ingrained in him and continue to haunt him to this day.
Kratos had never been interested in a relationship, instead he has always preferred to satisfy his needs and get on with his life. When he first meets Bianca in a dark alley while saving her life, she immediately gets his attention. Add in his easily addicted personality and Bianca has got herself her own stalker. One that she is not aware of.
Kratos is ready to take advantage of his resources to ensure Bianca only gets in contact with him through her profile at Venom's online platform. Soon, it becomes clear that he might've finally found someone who shares the same sexual preferences that he does. Never mind that the first woman to not shy away from them happens to be a virgin. Add in his own sexual traumas and the recipe for a disaster exists.
When Kratos needs to enter an arranged marriage with Bianca, he does not mind it at all. Even though marriage or having a wife have never been in his radar. When his past comes to haunt him, it also has the possibility to ruin his future.
Kratos’ voice is always low, and deep, and growling. But right now, it sounds legit possessed. Like there’s an actual demon here in the darkness, ready to destroy me.
I am the first to raise my hand when asked who enjoys a kink'd up book. Still, I ended up cringing a bit at the smut in this book. I have previously read several books by Jagger Cole and they have all had really really good spice in them. It might not always be conventional or to my taste but it has been written well. The smut in this book was also well-written but sole of the words or phrases that were used were not my cup of tea and put me off the spice a bit.
There’s no question that the twisted darkness inside me has already met its match with the vicious blackness inside him.
But it’s more than that.
There’s a small chance I’m falling for the man I just married.
Also, I felt like there was a lot of underlying trauma with both Bianca and Kratos that had severely influenced their life and shaped them to who they were in this book. That's why I did would have preferred to read more about their traumatic pasts instead of the off-hand mention of them.
I loved Kratos, even if he was a little bit if a lunatic and did not always think his actions through. Still, he was passionate, real and, in his own way, even sweet. I had my expectations about him but he also managed to surprise me. He definitely had more depth than I originally thought he would have.
Bianca was a bit of a let down for me in a way. Even though her naivete is what led to most of the major events in the book, I still did not like it. It seems ludacris that she did not suspect anything when her two co-ballerinas invited her with them and implied that there would be mischevious activities for the night. Or that, when threatened by a lower level member in Bratva, she firstly let the blame fall on her and did not utilize being a mafia don's daughter at all. How about Bianca just playing the victim and yielding to a stranger's will instead of trying to get herself out of the trouble and warn Kratos? In the end, all is well that ends well but there were too many small things about Bianca that bothered me. Still, I liked her as a character in general despite her being quite bland (excluding her sexual preferences).
Copper and salt.
Lust and need.
Danger and excitement.
Heaven and hell.
That’s what we taste like together.
I have to admit that as MC's, Bianca and Kratos were quite well matched. Overall, this book was pleasant enough to read and kept me intrigued but, since there were things that bothered me and I definitely enjoyed the author's previous books more, I had to rate this book with three stars.
I received an ARC of Corrupted Heart in exchange for an honest review
The fact that I begin that thought with “tragically” is probably grounds for immediately checking myself into a psychiatric ward.
Bianca Sartorre.
As the daughter of Vito Barone, one of the five Italian mafia dons, she is aware of how the mafia works.
When her co-dancers drag her into a drug deal gone wrong, she is almost certain she has met her demise. First, at the hand of the drug dealers who are threatening to sexually assault her. Then, at the hands of the giant who kills said drug dealers.
Unbeknownst to her, the course of her life begins to change that night.
After she survives that fateful night, she now finds herself in trouble with the Bratva and in a sexual relationship with a member of the Greek mafia. Her sexual preferences are of the kind that cannot be talked out loud with just anyone. After all, she has learnt it the hard way. Still, she seems to have finally found someone who is on the same page with her.
When Vito rescinds his promise to not have her enter an arranged mafia marriage, it has the potential to become the best thing that's ever happened to her. Or the worst.
Holy fucking hell.
He might not be completely sadistic. But instantly, it’s clear I have underestimated how psycho this man is.
The thing is, though, I might be just as fucking crazy.
Kratos Drakos.
His father was the sadistic leader of Greek mafia who groomed him to become an enforcer from when he was ten years old. He was willing to do anything to get ahead and, unfortunately, Kratos had to pay the price. While the scars are not visible to the eye, some are forever ingrained in him and continue to haunt him to this day.
Kratos had never been interested in a relationship, instead he has always preferred to satisfy his needs and get on with his life. When he first meets Bianca in a dark alley while saving her life, she immediately gets his attention. Add in his easily addicted personality and Bianca has got herself her own stalker. One that she is not aware of.
Kratos is ready to take advantage of his resources to ensure Bianca only gets in contact with him through her profile at Venom's online platform. Soon, it becomes clear that he might've finally found someone who shares the same sexual preferences that he does. Never mind that the first woman to not shy away from them happens to be a virgin. Add in his own sexual traumas and the recipe for a disaster exists.
When Kratos needs to enter an arranged marriage with Bianca, he does not mind it at all. Even though marriage or having a wife have never been in his radar. When his past comes to haunt him, it also has the possibility to ruin his future.
Kratos’ voice is always low, and deep, and growling. But right now, it sounds legit possessed. Like there’s an actual demon here in the darkness, ready to destroy me.
I am the first to raise my hand when asked who enjoys a kink'd up book. Still, I ended up cringing a bit at the smut in this book. I have previously read several books by Jagger Cole and they have all had really really good spice in them. It might not always be conventional or to my taste but it has been written well. The smut in this book was also well-written but sole of the words or phrases that were used were not my cup of tea and put me off the spice a bit.
There’s no question that the twisted darkness inside me has already met its match with the vicious blackness inside him.
But it’s more than that.
There’s a small chance I’m falling for the man I just married.
Also, I felt like there was a lot of underlying trauma with both Bianca and Kratos that had severely influenced their life and shaped them to who they were in this book. That's why I did would have preferred to read more about their traumatic pasts instead of the off-hand mention of them.
I loved Kratos, even if he was a little bit if a lunatic and did not always think his actions through. Still, he was passionate, real and, in his own way, even sweet. I had my expectations about him but he also managed to surprise me. He definitely had more depth than I originally thought he would have.
Bianca was a bit of a let down for me in a way. Even though her naivete is what led to most of the major events in the book, I still did not like it. It seems ludacris that she did not suspect anything when her two co-ballerinas invited her with them and implied that there would be mischevious activities for the night. Or that, when threatened by a lower level member in Bratva, she firstly let the blame fall on her and did not utilize being a mafia don's daughter at all. How about Bianca just playing the victim and yielding to a stranger's will instead of trying to get herself out of the trouble and warn Kratos? In the end, all is well that ends well but there were too many small things about Bianca that bothered me. Still, I liked her as a character in general despite her being quite bland (excluding her sexual preferences).
Copper and salt.
Lust and need.
Danger and excitement.
Heaven and hell.
That’s what we taste like together.
I have to admit that as MC's, Bianca and Kratos were quite well matched. Overall, this book was pleasant enough to read and kept me intrigued but, since there were things that bothered me and I definitely enjoyed the author's previous books more, I had to rate this book with three stars.
I received an ARC of Corrupted Heart in exchange for an honest review
May 23, 2024
Jagger does not miss! Another perfectly dark and depraved story that was unputdownable.
- he's greek mafia/she's italian mafia
- stalker/unhinged MMC
- arranged marriage
- grumpy (him)/sunshine (her)
- primal
- possessive/obsessive MMC
This is Kratos & Bianca's story and I have been dying for Kratos' story since Jagger's Dark Hearts series. Kratos is the youngest brother of the Drakos family who run the Greek mafia. Bianca is a mafia princess from one of the Italian mafia families. Everyone sees Bianca as a sweet ballet dancer but she has always had darker tastes. She seeks those tastes out through an app that matches you with a Dom with similar tastes and thats where she first meets Kratos. Due to circumstances with their families, they are then arranged to be married and their twisted and depraved games continue.
These two were a perfect match! One thing Jagger writes SO well is primal and this is a prime example of that. We've known that Kratos was the big scary enforcer for the Greek mafia but I loved getting to finally learn more about his story and who he really is. The spice in this book was top tier and I cannot recommend Jagger's books enough!
- he's greek mafia/she's italian mafia
- stalker/unhinged MMC
- arranged marriage
- grumpy (him)/sunshine (her)
- primal
- possessive/obsessive MMC
This is Kratos & Bianca's story and I have been dying for Kratos' story since Jagger's Dark Hearts series. Kratos is the youngest brother of the Drakos family who run the Greek mafia. Bianca is a mafia princess from one of the Italian mafia families. Everyone sees Bianca as a sweet ballet dancer but she has always had darker tastes. She seeks those tastes out through an app that matches you with a Dom with similar tastes and thats where she first meets Kratos. Due to circumstances with their families, they are then arranged to be married and their twisted and depraved games continue.
These two were a perfect match! One thing Jagger writes SO well is primal and this is a prime example of that. We've known that Kratos was the big scary enforcer for the Greek mafia but I loved getting to finally learn more about his story and who he really is. The spice in this book was top tier and I cannot recommend Jagger's books enough!
May 23, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Corrupted Heart was another wild, dark, and spicy ride from Jagger Cole. I was so excited we were finally getting Kratos ' story, since he was the only Drakos brother we didn't get a book for from the Dark Hearts series.
Bianca is a ballerina and mafia princess who has some darker fantasies. She wants to experience primal play and CNC. She gets rescued by a huge, masked man and can't stop thinking about him. Kratos can't stop thinking about her and becomes obsessed. He stalks her and manages to get their paths to cross again by using Club Venom's new online portal, so they can both bring their fantasies to life.
War is close to breaking out due to some of Bianca's actions, and now she is set up in an arranged marriage with Kratos. They come together in a very spicy and sexy way. Their sexual connection and chemistry were fire. I did think this book focused a lot more on their sexual relationship and CNC dynamic than the actual emotional connection. I wanted to see more of them actually falling love, but I still had a great time with this one.
I am a sucker for a masked man, and I loved envisioning Kratos in this crazy neon mask. His backstory broke my heart and I really fell for his character. There was an intense and suspenseful primal play scene that had me on the edge of my seat. I could not put this book down.
I have to say I was so intrigued by Drazen's character, and I can't wait for his romance! Jagger Cole has me so addicted his mafia romances.
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ARC.
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Corrupted Heart was another wild, dark, and spicy ride from Jagger Cole. I was so excited we were finally getting Kratos ' story, since he was the only Drakos brother we didn't get a book for from the Dark Hearts series.
Bianca is a ballerina and mafia princess who has some darker fantasies. She wants to experience primal play and CNC. She gets rescued by a huge, masked man and can't stop thinking about him. Kratos can't stop thinking about her and becomes obsessed. He stalks her and manages to get their paths to cross again by using Club Venom's new online portal, so they can both bring their fantasies to life.
War is close to breaking out due to some of Bianca's actions, and now she is set up in an arranged marriage with Kratos. They come together in a very spicy and sexy way. Their sexual connection and chemistry were fire. I did think this book focused a lot more on their sexual relationship and CNC dynamic than the actual emotional connection. I wanted to see more of them actually falling love, but I still had a great time with this one.
I am a sucker for a masked man, and I loved envisioning Kratos in this crazy neon mask. His backstory broke my heart and I really fell for his character. There was an intense and suspenseful primal play scene that had me on the edge of my seat. I could not put this book down.
I have to say I was so intrigued by Drazen's character, and I can't wait for his romance! Jagger Cole has me so addicted his mafia romances.
Thank you to Valentine PR for providing the ARC.
May 23, 2024
The book we have ALL been waiting for!!! Ever since starting the Dark Hearts series I have been waiting for Kratos book! In true Jagger Cole fashion he didn’t disappoint!! Kratos Drakos is currently fighting Castle and Gabriel in my head for the top spot 😆 I loved him instantly! The book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time and had me questioning everything! Bianca and him were perfect for each other and I can’t wait to see them together in future books!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 10, 2025
I liked it I just felt that...something was missing
May 24, 2024
For some stupid reason, this is only my first book by Jagger Cole. In hindsight, I wonder why!? Corrupted Heart is a standalone novel but kind of within the “Venomous Gods” world (it's not a must, but maybe read those first for more context!). It's a dark, mafia romance that delves into themes of forced marriage, trauma, and the complexities of dark desire. The book takes place in NY, where the Greek, Italian, Albanian, Russian, and Serbian mafia clans are all in a struggle for power, money, and influence. They're all entangled in an intricate web of let's say joint ventures, with shifting alliances and power symmetries.
Within this chaos, you'll meet Bianca, who is the daughter of one of the most influential Italian mob families in New York. While you'd expect her to be the stereotypical obedient Italian mafia princess, Bianca turns out to be a not so innocent ballet dancer with a tendency for danger. Her daring escapade with a masked stranger leads her to Kratos Drakos, a powerful figure in the Greek Mafia. What starts as a fantasy soon becomes a perilous reality as Bianca finds herself entangled with Kratos in a forced marriage to prevent a mafia war.
Ngl, I struggled a little with Bianca because like so many mafia heroines, she gets dragged into dangerous situations for no real reason apart from her naïveté! But besides that, Bianca shines as a relatable heroine, balancing strength with vulnerability, especially in her interactions with Kratos. She was likable enough, and I was definitely rooting for her.
But the real star of this book is, undoubtedly, Kratos! Kratos Drakos transcends the ordinary mold of a mobster; much like his namesake from Greek mythology, he's a multifaceted character shrouded in darkness and pain. Kratos, with his enigmatic allure and primal instincts, embodies the dichotomy of danger and protection. As Bianca navigates his world, she discovers layers beneath his facade, revealing a man both terrifying and fiercely devoted. Their union, born of necessity, evolves into a tumultuous alliance as they grapple with their shared traumatic past and uncertain futures, all the while igniting a fiery passion that defies the odds!
His devotion to family (and the knack for Baklava) adds depth to his character, but it's his connection with Bianca that truly transforms him. Despite his violent nature, there's a raw intensity to their relationship that captivated me enough to push even through CNC scenes, I would usually steer away.
The story delves into darker themes, including CNC scenes / primal play, so I recommend checking the warnings beforehand as it might not suit everyone's preferences and could be triggering for some readers. As I said, not the biggest fan, but this was written so incredibly well that I could not stop reading.
Now, to the little hiccups. While the plot is engaging and multifaceted, I found myself longing for a deeper exploration of the emotional journey of falling in love and healing. Despite Kratos's endearing gestures, there seemed to be a slight deficiency in capturing the profound evolution of their love. However, this minor flaw does little to detract from the overall gripping nature of the book.
I just had a blast reading it, so 4.5 stars it is!
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving the ARC didn't affect my opinion of the book.
Within this chaos, you'll meet Bianca, who is the daughter of one of the most influential Italian mob families in New York. While you'd expect her to be the stereotypical obedient Italian mafia princess, Bianca turns out to be a not so innocent ballet dancer with a tendency for danger. Her daring escapade with a masked stranger leads her to Kratos Drakos, a powerful figure in the Greek Mafia. What starts as a fantasy soon becomes a perilous reality as Bianca finds herself entangled with Kratos in a forced marriage to prevent a mafia war.
Ngl, I struggled a little with Bianca because like so many mafia heroines, she gets dragged into dangerous situations for no real reason apart from her naïveté! But besides that, Bianca shines as a relatable heroine, balancing strength with vulnerability, especially in her interactions with Kratos. She was likable enough, and I was definitely rooting for her.
But the real star of this book is, undoubtedly, Kratos! Kratos Drakos transcends the ordinary mold of a mobster; much like his namesake from Greek mythology, he's a multifaceted character shrouded in darkness and pain. Kratos, with his enigmatic allure and primal instincts, embodies the dichotomy of danger and protection. As Bianca navigates his world, she discovers layers beneath his facade, revealing a man both terrifying and fiercely devoted. Their union, born of necessity, evolves into a tumultuous alliance as they grapple with their shared traumatic past and uncertain futures, all the while igniting a fiery passion that defies the odds!
His devotion to family (and the knack for Baklava) adds depth to his character, but it's his connection with Bianca that truly transforms him. Despite his violent nature, there's a raw intensity to their relationship that captivated me enough to push even through CNC scenes, I would usually steer away.
The story delves into darker themes, including CNC scenes / primal play, so I recommend checking the warnings beforehand as it might not suit everyone's preferences and could be triggering for some readers. As I said, not the biggest fan, but this was written so incredibly well that I could not stop reading.
Now, to the little hiccups. While the plot is engaging and multifaceted, I found myself longing for a deeper exploration of the emotional journey of falling in love and healing. Despite Kratos's endearing gestures, there seemed to be a slight deficiency in capturing the profound evolution of their love. However, this minor flaw does little to detract from the overall gripping nature of the book.
I just had a blast reading it, so 4.5 stars it is!
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving the ARC didn't affect my opinion of the book.
June 10, 2024
It was an okay read. For me, it was missing something. Both characters have issues, the H was raped by an older woman while the h enjoys primal play kink. Something happens where both must marry each other and decide to give into their ‘baser’ needs.
It sounds like something I’d read but after everything was said and done, I didn’t find it very interesting.
It sounds like something I’d read but after everything was said and done, I didn’t find it very interesting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2024
4/5⭐️
4/5🌶️
i always enjoy a jagger cole book because it just always hits exactly what i want it to hit when i pick it up. it’s always spicy, it’s always mafia, it’s always has phenomenal dirty talk, and the plot line is always good. corrupted heart is no exception to this. i really enjoyed this story and i loved the different plot twists that the story took. i enjoyed bianca a lot and i loved kratos so much. he was both a perfect gentleman and the most ungentlemanly person at exactly the right times. the dynamic and chemistry between bianca and kratos both during their spicy time and in their relationship was really well done. i loved getting the little snippets of the other characters from jagger’s other series as well. my only complaint is i would have liked to see more of a development of bianca and kratos’s relationship in the domestic sense, but i did love the chapter where kratos cooked for her. men who cook >>> 🤌🏻
“i fell in love with you light”
4/5🌶️
i always enjoy a jagger cole book because it just always hits exactly what i want it to hit when i pick it up. it’s always spicy, it’s always mafia, it’s always has phenomenal dirty talk, and the plot line is always good. corrupted heart is no exception to this. i really enjoyed this story and i loved the different plot twists that the story took. i enjoyed bianca a lot and i loved kratos so much. he was both a perfect gentleman and the most ungentlemanly person at exactly the right times. the dynamic and chemistry between bianca and kratos both during their spicy time and in their relationship was really well done. i loved getting the little snippets of the other characters from jagger’s other series as well. my only complaint is i would have liked to see more of a development of bianca and kratos’s relationship in the domestic sense, but i did love the chapter where kratos cooked for her. men who cook >>> 🤌🏻
“i fell in love with you light”
June 9, 2024
dnf midway through chapter 11 about 34%mark. I kept trying to force my way through reading this. But it just annoyed the shit out of me.
This book was so convoluted and stupid.
- Literally everyone is in some sort of mob.
- Everything is so far-fetched and ridiculous.
- Kratos never-ending inner monologues about his "beast/monster" and the way he talked about himself was just lame and extremely eye roll worthy.
I read Deviant Hearts back in November and gave it a three star rating. I vaguely remember it. In my opinion the writing style, pace, and story itself were just crap.
This book was so convoluted and stupid.
- Literally everyone is in some sort of mob.
- Everything is so far-fetched and ridiculous.
- Kratos never-ending inner monologues about his "beast/monster" and the way he talked about himself was just lame and extremely eye roll worthy.
I read Deviant Hearts back in November and gave it a three star rating. I vaguely remember it. In my opinion the writing style, pace, and story itself were just crap.
May 18, 2024
He’s done it again! Jagger never disappoints but this just took top spot as fave of the series for me. I adored every moment of this story right from the beginning. In true Jagger style, we’re given strong, complex characters whose stories are intriguing and all consuming, there’s incredible chemistry and as always some seriously hot spice. Then there is an intense build up of suspense and twists that had me on edge and completely invested in this story. It was deliciously dark and everything I’ve come to love about a Jagger Cole story.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: Italian mafia x Greek mafia, enemies to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, forced marriage, stalker, primal + CNC play, touch her + d!e.
Kratos is the last Drako’s sibling to settle down and he really met his match with our girl Bianca. Their darkness matched each others, they were able to be vulnerable with one another and explore their deepest desires together. These two could understand each other on a different level and I loved the way they connected, their soft, more sweeter moments had me melting. It had the perfect balance of dark and light, with sprinkles of humour
I was SO happy to see more of the Drakos family in this as well as the Barone’s, I love the dynamic and the banter between them all. I am extremely excited for what’s to come next and cannot wait to finally get Drazen’s story. He has been lurking in the background for awhile and I am very intrigued 👀
Please check TW before reading.
Thank you Jagger + ValentinePR for this arc 🫶
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: Italian mafia x Greek mafia, enemies to lovers, grumpy x sunshine, forced marriage, stalker, primal + CNC play, touch her + d!e.
Kratos is the last Drako’s sibling to settle down and he really met his match with our girl Bianca. Their darkness matched each others, they were able to be vulnerable with one another and explore their deepest desires together. These two could understand each other on a different level and I loved the way they connected, their soft, more sweeter moments had me melting. It had the perfect balance of dark and light, with sprinkles of humour
I was SO happy to see more of the Drakos family in this as well as the Barone’s, I love the dynamic and the banter between them all. I am extremely excited for what’s to come next and cannot wait to finally get Drazen’s story. He has been lurking in the background for awhile and I am very intrigued 👀
Please check TW before reading.
Thank you Jagger + ValentinePR for this arc 🫶
May 18, 2024
5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🩶anti hero
🖤enemies to lovers
🩶mafia
🖤arranged marriage
🩶forced proximity
🖤Bdsm
🩶 dual pov
🖤age gap
OHMYLANTA!! Wowzer!! I just finished Kratos and Bianca’s story.. it was amazing.. a little twisted, and a lot intense but ohhhh so good. I absolutely loved Kratos and Bianca.
Now like any previous Jagger book I’ve read, it starts off a bit on the slower side, however hang onto your pants because before you know it the story becomes very intense fast and sucks you in.
Kratos was as deadly as he was dark and mysterious
He was rough and boyyyyy that filthy mouth on that man was golden.. He was unapologetic about who he was and he was exactly what Bianca wanted and needed in her life . Karoto's had such a brutal and tragic past but when you learn what happened, it gives you more insight on why he was the way he was.
Bianca, is no stranger to tragedy but unlike Kratos it didn’t haunt her. Bianca is not only the good mafia princess but a ballerina. When one night she gets caught in a deal gone haywire, Kratos steps in.
The connection between these two was explosive. Neither really wanted to get married, but to keep alliances it was what was necessary. In the end , it was worth it because they got their HEA.
This
This book was super intense but oh so good. It was one I could not put down and read it from start to finish. If you have not read Jagger Cole this is definitely one I’d recommend. Thank you to valentine Pr for the advance copy.
🩶anti hero
🖤enemies to lovers
🩶mafia
🖤arranged marriage
🩶forced proximity
🖤Bdsm
🩶 dual pov
🖤age gap
OHMYLANTA!! Wowzer!! I just finished Kratos and Bianca’s story.. it was amazing.. a little twisted, and a lot intense but ohhhh so good. I absolutely loved Kratos and Bianca.
Now like any previous Jagger book I’ve read, it starts off a bit on the slower side, however hang onto your pants because before you know it the story becomes very intense fast and sucks you in.
Kratos was as deadly as he was dark and mysterious
He was rough and boyyyyy that filthy mouth on that man was golden.. He was unapologetic about who he was and he was exactly what Bianca wanted and needed in her life . Karoto's had such a brutal and tragic past but when you learn what happened, it gives you more insight on why he was the way he was.
Bianca, is no stranger to tragedy but unlike Kratos it didn’t haunt her. Bianca is not only the good mafia princess but a ballerina. When one night she gets caught in a deal gone haywire, Kratos steps in.
The connection between these two was explosive. Neither really wanted to get married, but to keep alliances it was what was necessary. In the end , it was worth it because they got their HEA.
This
This book was super intense but oh so good. It was one I could not put down and read it from start to finish. If you have not read Jagger Cole this is definitely one I’d recommend. Thank you to valentine Pr for the advance copy.
January 15, 2025
Kratos MF Drakos 👏🏼 I have been waiting for his book since we met him in the Dark Hearts series. The elusiveness of him always intrigued me and I knew there was a background story there. This book started a little differently than the other Jagger books I’ve read but he does not miss! Kratos was the definition of burn the whole world down, hate everyone but the woman he loves. Everything he went through as a child to make him into the man he is now, and how he became so soft for only Bianca and she helped quite the monster within him. Bianca was a little reserved at first but she also had demons of her own that wanted to come out and play and her and Kratos were the perfect match. I cannot wait to read Drazens book next after how this book ended!
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