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Bonded in Blood #1
Her Dark Salvation
"Intense, enthralling, and wickedly sexy!"
~ New York Times bestselling author, Annika Martin
ANNA
A made man in the Italian Mafia. An immortal blood demon. My dark salvation.
I wanted to reinvent myself, stop hiding in a classroom and prove I’m more than a mousey professor. But the real world is deadlier than I imagined.
My new boss is arrogant, domineering, and dangerous. His thirsty stare ignites my passions, revealing a woman I don’t recognize—someone desperate to break free.
I should have quit, should have run screaming. Because Marco DeVita isn’t just thirsty for my body. He craves my blood. And I’m ready to give him every part of me.
MARCO
Heritage. Family. Blood. The bonds that have tied me to the Boston underworld for almost a century are unbreakable. Or so I thought.
Someone in my crew is stealing from me, betraying our family. But I need an expert to find proof.
Anna Barone is a distraction I can’t afford. Her brilliant mind, hot temper, and hotter body make my fangs ache with need.
I’m trapped between my desire to possess her and my duty to protect my family and our secret. It’s one or the other, because in my world, everything comes at a price.
******
HER DARK SALVATION is the first book in the Bonded in Blood series. Each book is an interconnected standalone Paranormal Mafia Romance with a guaranteed HEA.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 18, 2024
59 people are currently reading
353 people want to read
About the author
Katelyn Brehm
6 books62 followersKatelyn Brehm writes steamy Paranormal and Mafia Romance with mature characters and contemporary settings deeply rooted in our real world. Kat is a second-generation German-American and native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. When she's not reading and writing or working on her vintage Romance cover and stepback collection, she works as an aerospace engineer at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Kat lives in Pasadena, California with her husband and two cats, Mini Wheat and Pepper.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
June 20, 2024
This was absolutely breath taking! The tension, the spice, the emotions, the ending!!! This was such a perfect book. I feel like I had been seeing teasers for this book for months and my anticipation to read it kept growing. This far surpassed all my expectations for it and more. A mafia romance with a blood demon who falls hard for the super intelligent woman and wants to drink her blood?!? Give it to me now!
I have always enjoyed Katelyn Brehm's writing style from her Demons Among Us novellas, especially The Art Collector. She has such a way of writing strong, mature characters, who are going through the problems of life that are deeply relatable. The ache of being lost going down the path chosen, with hints of regret and a desire for something different. A need to be free. I always love the FMC's, who are so smart, and even though they may not have always been strong early in life, life and experience has made them tougher. They don't take crap from anyone anymore. They go after what they want, and they prove that age shouldn't hold you back from chasing dreams or having some fun.
The interactions between Marco and Anna had me kicking my feet and grinning so hard. The slow burn was so delicious and the tension just kept building and building. The sweet and funny moments were woven brilliantly throughout. The emails and the teasing about what clothes to wear. The heat hit at just the right time and I about died. O M G! That really happened. I didn't think anything could top that and then it did. I don't want to spoil anything, but she did and then he did, and then it happened during. jaflajflajflj!! 100/10, no notes. But as much as I loved the tension and spice, I loved their connection even more. Marco and Anna were two lost souls that found each other right when they needed the other the most. Marco found someone to make his walls crumble and Anna found passion and connection.
I enjoyed the mixing of mafia with blood demons, the two complimenting and meshing well together. I feel like everything was so well explained and explored. Any questions I had were eventually answered. I can't seem to find the words, but the blend of the real world and paranormal seemed so realistic and vivid. I could picture it all so clearly.
I was thinking during the book that I would love to find out more about Siobhan and Luca, and then that ending happened! And there's going to be another book! I'm so unbelievably happy right now. I cannot recommend this book enough - it was just brilliant.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have always enjoyed Katelyn Brehm's writing style from her Demons Among Us novellas, especially The Art Collector. She has such a way of writing strong, mature characters, who are going through the problems of life that are deeply relatable. The ache of being lost going down the path chosen, with hints of regret and a desire for something different. A need to be free. I always love the FMC's, who are so smart, and even though they may not have always been strong early in life, life and experience has made them tougher. They don't take crap from anyone anymore. They go after what they want, and they prove that age shouldn't hold you back from chasing dreams or having some fun.
The interactions between Marco and Anna had me kicking my feet and grinning so hard. The slow burn was so delicious and the tension just kept building and building. The sweet and funny moments were woven brilliantly throughout. The emails and the teasing about what clothes to wear. The heat hit at just the right time and I about died. O M G! That really happened. I didn't think anything could top that and then it did. I don't want to spoil anything, but she did and then he did, and then it happened during. jaflajflajflj!! 100/10, no notes. But as much as I loved the tension and spice, I loved their connection even more. Marco and Anna were two lost souls that found each other right when they needed the other the most. Marco found someone to make his walls crumble and Anna found passion and connection.
I enjoyed the mixing of mafia with blood demons, the two complimenting and meshing well together. I feel like everything was so well explained and explored. Any questions I had were eventually answered. I can't seem to find the words, but the blend of the real world and paranormal seemed so realistic and vivid. I could picture it all so clearly.
I was thinking during the book that I would love to find out more about Siobhan and Luca, and then that ending happened! And there's going to be another book! I'm so unbelievably happy right now. I cannot recommend this book enough - it was just brilliant.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 26, 2024
This was an okay read. Paranormal romance with blood demons and mafia ties. Anna and Marco were great but the build up was really slow. Too slow for my liking and there was a lot of business talk and not enough tension between them to really make their chemistry work.
The plot was pretty straightforward but the side characters, Siobhan and Luca, were interesting and the epilogue might make me want to continue with the series.
A story with its faults but still ok.
The plot was pretty straightforward but the side characters, Siobhan and Luca, were interesting and the epilogue might make me want to continue with the series.
A story with its faults but still ok.
July 11, 2024
Wow, just wow! Her Dark Salvation is absolutely mesmerizing. I devoured this book and I am sooo in love with Marco and feel seen in Anna. Beautiful!
Anna is going through a mid-life awakening, cause she is finding herself and there is nothing more alluring than that. She stopped being told what she should or shouldn’t do and I love it when a character realizes their potential. I also love that the characters are older in this book. I love to see that representation!
The heat and tension between Anna and Marco is pure fire. That man’s mouth should come with a warning. The flirting is *chef’s kiss* and that sauna scene….wow. 🥵🫦 IYKYK.
Her Dark Salvation checked all the boxes and I can’t wait to see what Katelyn Brehm shows us in book 2!
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Anna is going through a mid-life awakening, cause she is finding herself and there is nothing more alluring than that. She stopped being told what she should or shouldn’t do and I love it when a character realizes their potential. I also love that the characters are older in this book. I love to see that representation!
The heat and tension between Anna and Marco is pure fire. That man’s mouth should come with a warning. The flirting is *chef’s kiss* and that sauna scene….wow. 🥵🫦 IYKYK.
Her Dark Salvation checked all the boxes and I can’t wait to see what Katelyn Brehm shows us in book 2!
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
April 18, 2025
Let me just start off by saying I'm usually not into paranormal romance books.
BUT... this book was so well written that it didn't even cross my mind. The storyline and the characters were 🤌
the story of their lives and watching their lives come together was really enjoyable.
and the fact that Luca was the one who betrayed Marco, and Anna was the one who found out?! and then she comforted Marco, the big bad Mafia man!
watching Marco and Anna's relationship build and build, until they finally realize how perfect they are together and how much they fill each other's empty place in their heart and allow themselves to be happy finally, together.
I am so excited to read the ARC for the next book 🤙
BUT... this book was so well written that it didn't even cross my mind. The storyline and the characters were 🤌
the story of their lives and watching their lives come together was really enjoyable.
and the fact that Luca was the one who betrayed Marco, and Anna was the one who found out?! and then she comforted Marco, the big bad Mafia man!
watching Marco and Anna's relationship build and build, until they finally realize how perfect they are together and how much they fill each other's empty place in their heart and allow themselves to be happy finally, together.
I am so excited to read the ARC for the next book 🤙
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2025
4 Stars for a Mafia/Vampire Mashup
This was an interesting world that skewed 85% mafia and 15% vampire (excuse me, blood demon).
✔️ Dual POVs (Marco x Anna)
✔️ Set in Boston
✔️ Open-door contemporary romance (4/5🌶️)
💔 Why they can’t be together: He’s a mafia boss, and she’s just an MIT professor. Plus, he’s a blood demon!
✔️ Tropes: Paranormal romance; mafia romance; workplace romance
This was an interesting world that skewed 85% mafia and 15% vampire (excuse me, blood demon).
✔️ Dual POVs (Marco x Anna)
✔️ Set in Boston
✔️ Open-door contemporary romance (4/5🌶️)
💔 Why they can’t be together: He’s a mafia boss, and she’s just an MIT professor. Plus, he’s a blood demon!
✔️ Tropes: Paranormal romance; mafia romance; workplace romance
June 23, 2024
Her Dark Salvation by Katelyn Brehm is a compelling start to a new series that twists some of my favourite genres in new ways that I loved. For starters, it’s a mafia romance, which I adore, but it’s a paranormal mafia romance!? Maybe I’m missing out on this particular genre, but this is my first and I loved it. Vampire-like demons combined with mafia? Sign me the heck up.
This book had some next level face fanning tension between the two main characters that had me addicted to their interactions. It was perfection. I’m also a sucker for dual point of view chapters alternating between the main characters, and I very much enjoyed this aspect of Her Dark Salvation, getting insight into each of their thoughts, particularly Marco’s who is a bit of an enigma, impossible to read from Anna’s perspective.
The mafia aspect of the story was much more predominant over the paranormal side and I actually liked the book far more for it. It makes it seem a much more natural part of the world without overwhelming the story itself and I thought it made the two different sides of the story mesh together much better.
Marco also had a very compelling backstory that is doled out bit by bit and gave insight into where he came from and what his long life has been like since his start. This made him a very interesting character and had me eager to learn more about him.
Anna herself was also one of my favourite parts of the book. She’s intelligent, brave as she completely overturns her life and career to pursue her passion, and she is relatable as hell. Nerve induced sweaty palmed queen representing us fellow anxious folk who can’t control the anxiety sweats in social situations. I died from laughter at one particular scene involving wiping said sweaty palms on expensive clothing in preparation for a handshake. Sans the expensive clothing part, can relate. Needless to say I felt very seen in Anna’s character. Another notable part of her is that she is in her fourties which I feel isn’t something I see often, if at all in this kind of genre, so it’s a breath of fresh air and I think really opens up the demographic this book will appeal to.
With the way this first book ended, with Marco making an important decision for his business and family, and the choice between him and Anna, I absolutely cannot wait for the next book. Not to mention Luca and Siobhan who I very much want to see more of and get more insight into their relationship. They definitely very deeply intrigued me outside of the two main characters and I’m obsessed with knowing more of their backstory. I am hooked and can’t wait for the second book!
This book had some next level face fanning tension between the two main characters that had me addicted to their interactions. It was perfection. I’m also a sucker for dual point of view chapters alternating between the main characters, and I very much enjoyed this aspect of Her Dark Salvation, getting insight into each of their thoughts, particularly Marco’s who is a bit of an enigma, impossible to read from Anna’s perspective.
The mafia aspect of the story was much more predominant over the paranormal side and I actually liked the book far more for it. It makes it seem a much more natural part of the world without overwhelming the story itself and I thought it made the two different sides of the story mesh together much better.
Marco also had a very compelling backstory that is doled out bit by bit and gave insight into where he came from and what his long life has been like since his start. This made him a very interesting character and had me eager to learn more about him.
Anna herself was also one of my favourite parts of the book. She’s intelligent, brave as she completely overturns her life and career to pursue her passion, and she is relatable as hell. Nerve induced sweaty palmed queen representing us fellow anxious folk who can’t control the anxiety sweats in social situations. I died from laughter at one particular scene involving wiping said sweaty palms on expensive clothing in preparation for a handshake. Sans the expensive clothing part, can relate. Needless to say I felt very seen in Anna’s character. Another notable part of her is that she is in her fourties which I feel isn’t something I see often, if at all in this kind of genre, so it’s a breath of fresh air and I think really opens up the demographic this book will appeal to.
With the way this first book ended, with Marco making an important decision for his business and family, and the choice between him and Anna, I absolutely cannot wait for the next book. Not to mention Luca and Siobhan who I very much want to see more of and get more insight into their relationship. They definitely very deeply intrigued me outside of the two main characters and I’m obsessed with knowing more of their backstory. I am hooked and can’t wait for the second book!
November 8, 2024
Oh my dark and delicious goodness, where do I even begin with Her Dark Salvation?!
This book has everything: a mafia romance, a midlife glow-up, and just enough paranormal spice to keep you begging for more! 😈🔥
Meet Anna—our 45-year-old, sharp-as-hell professor who’s ready to swap stuffy academia for something a bit... wilder.
Enter Marco DeVita, the dangerously sexy blood demon who has his eyes on her—for both her brilliant mind and her irresistible blood. This is no ordinary game of cat and mouse; it’s a full-on chase with electric chemistry and a dark edge that’ll leave you biting your lip! 😏🐾
From their first encounter, the tension is sizzling.
The slow burn? Absolute chef’s kiss.
And when things finally ignite… let's just say you might need a fan (and some ice water). 🔥
Their banter? Witty, flirty, and charged with so much energy I was practically kicking my feet in delight. This boss knows exactly what he wants, and Anna is all too happy to challenge him. 🙌💥
Anna is a total vibe—fierce, sassy, and relatable AF! This is a woman on a mission, reclaiming her life and going after what she wants. We need more bold, mature heroines like her! 💪
And Marco? Oh, he’s a dominant, brooding force of nature with a dark side that’s both terrifying and totally irresistible. Plus, his backstory? Layers on layers, making every page more delicious than the last.
As for the world-building—Katelyn Brehm nailed it! Imagine the mafia's gritty underbelly blended with a twist of the supernatural. You can practically feel the danger, the betrayal, and the heat coming off the page! 😱
Oh, and that cliffhanger? Left me breathless. Jaw dropped. I need the next book, yesterday! Luca and Siobhan better get their time in the spotlight, too, because I'm ready for more of everything. 😍
In short, Her Dark Salvation is a wild, sexy ride you won’t forget. For fans of paranormal romance, mafia drama, and mature love stories with all the spice—run, don’t walk, to grab this one!💋
This book has everything: a mafia romance, a midlife glow-up, and just enough paranormal spice to keep you begging for more! 😈🔥
Meet Anna—our 45-year-old, sharp-as-hell professor who’s ready to swap stuffy academia for something a bit... wilder.
Enter Marco DeVita, the dangerously sexy blood demon who has his eyes on her—for both her brilliant mind and her irresistible blood. This is no ordinary game of cat and mouse; it’s a full-on chase with electric chemistry and a dark edge that’ll leave you biting your lip! 😏🐾
From their first encounter, the tension is sizzling.
The slow burn? Absolute chef’s kiss.
And when things finally ignite… let's just say you might need a fan (and some ice water). 🔥
Their banter? Witty, flirty, and charged with so much energy I was practically kicking my feet in delight. This boss knows exactly what he wants, and Anna is all too happy to challenge him. 🙌💥
Anna is a total vibe—fierce, sassy, and relatable AF! This is a woman on a mission, reclaiming her life and going after what she wants. We need more bold, mature heroines like her! 💪
And Marco? Oh, he’s a dominant, brooding force of nature with a dark side that’s both terrifying and totally irresistible. Plus, his backstory? Layers on layers, making every page more delicious than the last.
As for the world-building—Katelyn Brehm nailed it! Imagine the mafia's gritty underbelly blended with a twist of the supernatural. You can practically feel the danger, the betrayal, and the heat coming off the page! 😱
Oh, and that cliffhanger? Left me breathless. Jaw dropped. I need the next book, yesterday! Luca and Siobhan better get their time in the spotlight, too, because I'm ready for more of everything. 😍
In short, Her Dark Salvation is a wild, sexy ride you won’t forget. For fans of paranormal romance, mafia drama, and mature love stories with all the spice—run, don’t walk, to grab this one!💋
June 26, 2024
Her Dark Salvation by Katelyn Brehm
Bonded in Blood Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 18 July 2024
"Her Dark Salvation" captivated me from start to finish! The characters and storyline were absolutely enthralling. What resonated deeply was the portrayal of the female lead—a strong, outspoken 45-year-old whose strength and authenticity I truly admired.
This office romance takes an exhilarating twist when the charming, dirty-talking boss is revealed to be a demon. Marco Devita is magnetic with his dark eyes and commanding presence, navigating his dual roles as a powerful businessman and a blood demon with dangerous ties to the underworld.
Anna Barone, a respected professor at MIT known for her financial expertise, enters Marco's world to uncover corporate theft. Their partnership sparks intense chemistry and blurs professional boundaries, as they confront secrets that intertwine business and the supernatural. In Marco's realm, where primal instincts reign, Anna challenges his beliefs about love and power, leading to a slow-burning romance woven with suspense and passion.
The novel expertly blends dark romance with paranormal intrigue, crafting a narrative that kept me hooked with its compelling plot and well-developed characters. Marco and Anna's journey is a thrilling exploration of forbidden love amidst danger and revelation, showcasing the author's talent for creating an emotionally resonant and captivating story.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and the author, Katelynn Brehm, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Bonded in Blood Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 18 July 2024
"Her Dark Salvation" captivated me from start to finish! The characters and storyline were absolutely enthralling. What resonated deeply was the portrayal of the female lead—a strong, outspoken 45-year-old whose strength and authenticity I truly admired.
This office romance takes an exhilarating twist when the charming, dirty-talking boss is revealed to be a demon. Marco Devita is magnetic with his dark eyes and commanding presence, navigating his dual roles as a powerful businessman and a blood demon with dangerous ties to the underworld.
Anna Barone, a respected professor at MIT known for her financial expertise, enters Marco's world to uncover corporate theft. Their partnership sparks intense chemistry and blurs professional boundaries, as they confront secrets that intertwine business and the supernatural. In Marco's realm, where primal instincts reign, Anna challenges his beliefs about love and power, leading to a slow-burning romance woven with suspense and passion.
The novel expertly blends dark romance with paranormal intrigue, crafting a narrative that kept me hooked with its compelling plot and well-developed characters. Marco and Anna's journey is a thrilling exploration of forbidden love amidst danger and revelation, showcasing the author's talent for creating an emotionally resonant and captivating story.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and the author, Katelynn Brehm, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
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June 7, 2024Disclaimer: the author is a dear friend
Mafia romance is one of the last things I would usually pick up. But this is compelling and character-focused with palpable tension - and a mystery driven by a smart woman. I have found myself thinking of this again and again since I read it. And… I want the second book now. So, good enough to convince a non-believer - and if you’re here already, see if it convinces you too
Mafia romance is one of the last things I would usually pick up. But this is compelling and character-focused with palpable tension - and a mystery driven by a smart woman. I have found myself thinking of this again and again since I read it. And… I want the second book now. So, good enough to convince a non-believer - and if you’re here already, see if it convinces you too
July 1, 2024
she was just so chill about him being a vampire—i’m sorry, blood demon. WHATS THE DIFFERENCE?!?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2024
Anna Barone was taking a long needed sabbatical from her job as a professor. She wanted to see if she could apply her career to the real world. That's how she ended up working for Marco DeVita. Someone working for Marci has been stealing money from him, and he needs someone with Anna's skills to find out who it is. From the minute Anna walks into Marco's office, he's drawn to her but knows he should stay away. Anna can't help but be pulled in by Marco and his bossy ways. When she learns, he wants her not only for her body but for her blood, but she can't help but be drawn in more.
Her Dark Salvation is a dark paranormal mafia romance that was so good! I loved that Anna was 45, and she was a strong, beautiful, smart, independent woman. Then there's the extremely sexy, flirty, filthy talking Marco who happens to be Anna's new boss. He's not afraid to let Anna know exactly what he wants to do with her. Did I also mention he's a blood demon? Yep, so he stays away from Anna, which makes all the sexual tension and chemistry between these two build to the point of explosion. There's also the problem of who's stealing from Marco's company. This adds the element of so much drama to this book. I, of course, didn't expect the outcome of that one. It's a jaw dropper. Then the ending!!! I can't wait until next year for the next book in this series to release!
Her Dark Salvation is a dark paranormal mafia romance that was so good! I loved that Anna was 45, and she was a strong, beautiful, smart, independent woman. Then there's the extremely sexy, flirty, filthy talking Marco who happens to be Anna's new boss. He's not afraid to let Anna know exactly what he wants to do with her. Did I also mention he's a blood demon? Yep, so he stays away from Anna, which makes all the sexual tension and chemistry between these two build to the point of explosion. There's also the problem of who's stealing from Marco's company. This adds the element of so much drama to this book. I, of course, didn't expect the outcome of that one. It's a jaw dropper. Then the ending!!! I can't wait until next year for the next book in this series to release!
July 8, 2024
Her Dark Salvation is a paranormal mafia romance that is written exceptionally well. Paranormal and mafia are two topics that don't seem to mix, but Katelyn Brehm has created a fabulous world that blends the two seamlessly.
The dual POV was perfect, I'm a sucker for a dual POV book as it means we get to know the characters even better.
I loved Marco and Anna, their relationship was a slow burn, but I was here for it! I was giggling as the relationship progressed, and it was fabulous. At times, I wished the relationship sped up a bit more, and the spice was good, but I felt like more could have been added, especially to build the tension.
I also loved the fact that the characters weren't fresh out of high school, so they both had world experience that I could relate to more.
The world of blood demons was interesting and was well written. It didn't seem like it was a paranormal book for the most part, as the mafia elements are more prominent.
I'm excited to read more in this world and, of course, reading more books from Katelyn in the future.
Thank you to Katelyn Brehm for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for a review.
The dual POV was perfect, I'm a sucker for a dual POV book as it means we get to know the characters even better.
I loved Marco and Anna, their relationship was a slow burn, but I was here for it! I was giggling as the relationship progressed, and it was fabulous. At times, I wished the relationship sped up a bit more, and the spice was good, but I felt like more could have been added, especially to build the tension.
I also loved the fact that the characters weren't fresh out of high school, so they both had world experience that I could relate to more.
The world of blood demons was interesting and was well written. It didn't seem like it was a paranormal book for the most part, as the mafia elements are more prominent.
I'm excited to read more in this world and, of course, reading more books from Katelyn in the future.
Thank you to Katelyn Brehm for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for a review.
July 2, 2024
4.5 stars
Really enjoyed this paranormal romance! I devoured it in one sitting because once I started, I was HOOKED. I was so invested in Anna and Marco's story from page 1. I also really enjoyed the character development throughout the book and the way both MCs were presented. Them being older MCs really made me love the book even more because immortal men with 18 year olds is getting kind of repetitive (I still read these but I love an older FMC!!). Moreover, I really like that Anna is valued as an academic and that she knows she has grown in her career and is ready for something more. It goes to show that it doesn't matter how old you are, you shouldn't have to settle for being unhappy or in a rut.
I loved Katelyn's writing style and I think that is why I was so hooked. It was easy to follow, the details were constantly giving exactly what I needed, and all in all it was a fun read to me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Katelyn Brehm for this ARC!
Really enjoyed this paranormal romance! I devoured it in one sitting because once I started, I was HOOKED. I was so invested in Anna and Marco's story from page 1. I also really enjoyed the character development throughout the book and the way both MCs were presented. Them being older MCs really made me love the book even more because immortal men with 18 year olds is getting kind of repetitive (I still read these but I love an older FMC!!). Moreover, I really like that Anna is valued as an academic and that she knows she has grown in her career and is ready for something more. It goes to show that it doesn't matter how old you are, you shouldn't have to settle for being unhappy or in a rut.
I loved Katelyn's writing style and I think that is why I was so hooked. It was easy to follow, the details were constantly giving exactly what I needed, and all in all it was a fun read to me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Katelyn Brehm for this ARC!
December 19, 2025
Mafia
Paranormal
Morally grey protective MMC
Wallflower glow up FMC
Slow burn
Workplace
Blood demon not vampire
Dual POV - 1st person
Dual narration - Aiden Snow & Dani Soleil
Such amazing narrators. Their performance was fabulous
Marco is a sexy mafia boss that just so happens to be an immortal blood demon. He is convinced someone is stealing from him so he hires an outside company to help him Investigate. Not expecting Anna whatsoever.
Anna is a quiet professor that is looking to branch out in her life. She’s tired of teaching and wants new experiences. Taking a break from her job , she gets offered a consulting job that intrigues her.
Through forced proximity and mutual attraction these two are captivating and the chemistry is undeniable.
Paranormal
Morally grey protective MMC
Wallflower glow up FMC
Slow burn
Workplace
Blood demon not vampire
Dual POV - 1st person
Dual narration - Aiden Snow & Dani Soleil
Such amazing narrators. Their performance was fabulous
Marco is a sexy mafia boss that just so happens to be an immortal blood demon. He is convinced someone is stealing from him so he hires an outside company to help him Investigate. Not expecting Anna whatsoever.
Anna is a quiet professor that is looking to branch out in her life. She’s tired of teaching and wants new experiences. Taking a break from her job , she gets offered a consulting job that intrigues her.
Through forced proximity and mutual attraction these two are captivating and the chemistry is undeniable.
July 2, 2024
This is my first time reading Katelyn Brehm, and I'm hooked!
I love a dark romance with a mafia trope, and then there's the added the PNR with blood demons?? Yes, please!
There's so much I loved about this book: Anna is not overtly confident, but don't mistake her for being weak. I loved her strong willed personality and how she handled Marco.
Marco is the typical mafia personality but he also has his endearing qualities and especially how protective he was with Anna.
I'm a sucker for the dominant/submissive dynamics , but Anna was only submissive in the bedroom! Loved how she blossomed outside of academia!
Really looking forward to the next book in the series!!
I love a dark romance with a mafia trope, and then there's the added the PNR with blood demons?? Yes, please!
There's so much I loved about this book: Anna is not overtly confident, but don't mistake her for being weak. I loved her strong willed personality and how she handled Marco.
Marco is the typical mafia personality but he also has his endearing qualities and especially how protective he was with Anna.
I'm a sucker for the dominant/submissive dynamics , but Anna was only submissive in the bedroom! Loved how she blossomed outside of academia!
Really looking forward to the next book in the series!!
July 1, 2024
*arc review*
This book had me captivated from the beginning!
Anna is a tenure professor who wants to move out of academia. She finds herself working for dark, handsome Italian man to uncover who has been stealing from him.
Marco is a blood demon with mafia ties, who runs an empire.
The professional lines blur as their chemistry heats up.
We’ve got banter, tension, and spice! The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what happens next!
This was a perfect blend of paranormal and mafia romance. I can’t wait to see where it goes next!
This book had me captivated from the beginning!
Anna is a tenure professor who wants to move out of academia. She finds herself working for dark, handsome Italian man to uncover who has been stealing from him.
Marco is a blood demon with mafia ties, who runs an empire.
The professional lines blur as their chemistry heats up.
We’ve got banter, tension, and spice! The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what happens next!
This was a perfect blend of paranormal and mafia romance. I can’t wait to see where it goes next!
July 22, 2024
Her Dark Salvation is a spicy dark paranormal mafia romance. It’s full of emotions, spice, banter, sexual tension, romance, action, suspense. The heat and tension between the two main characters could start a 5 alarm fire.
Anna timid, fierce … respected professor at MIT known for her financial expertise. She is intelligent, passionate , determined, brave. She is on the road a midlife awakening
Marco is a sexy, flirty blood demon with mafia ties, who runs an empire. His internal struggle between his duty and his growing feelings for Anna only makes him more loveable
Anna timid, fierce … respected professor at MIT known for her financial expertise. She is intelligent, passionate , determined, brave. She is on the road a midlife awakening
Marco is a sexy, flirty blood demon with mafia ties, who runs an empire. His internal struggle between his duty and his growing feelings for Anna only makes him more loveable
July 26, 2024
This book had me by the first chapter. You can’t help but root for Ann in her new path in life. When she is given her first opportunity by her best friend Jeff she had no idea what she was walking into. When Ann met Marco she knew she was in trouble in more ways than one. Is she brave enough to start this new path of her life or will she revert back to her normal boring life like before. This book has strong characters, a great storyline, and more to this story will be in other books from the series. I was given a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2025
Book Review: Her Dark Salvation by Katelyn Brehm
🩸🖤🌶️
I don’t do vampires.. or “blood demons”. But this? This was True Blood porn meets Vampire Diaries chaos—with a mafia twist and zero plot protection for my morals.
Marco’s a blood demon daddy with a chokehold kink and a body count. Anna’s a 45-year-old professor who said “f**k tenure, I want trauma dick.”
🖤 Mafia: 10/10
📖 Plot: 10/10
🌶️ Spice: 15/10—my Kindle combusted and I moaned.
Unhinged. Unholy. Unputdownable.
Buy it. Sin with it. Regret nothing.
🩸🖤🌶️
I don’t do vampires.. or “blood demons”. But this? This was True Blood porn meets Vampire Diaries chaos—with a mafia twist and zero plot protection for my morals.
Marco’s a blood demon daddy with a chokehold kink and a body count. Anna’s a 45-year-old professor who said “f**k tenure, I want trauma dick.”
🖤 Mafia: 10/10
📖 Plot: 10/10
🌶️ Spice: 15/10—my Kindle combusted and I moaned.
Unhinged. Unholy. Unputdownable.
Buy it. Sin with it. Regret nothing.
July 15, 2024
You’re going to love this SPICY dark mafia paranormal romance! Without giving too much away, this isn’t your normal blood play type darkness. There’s no biting and you magically become another creature, the people feel real. Their story feels real. The adults are actual adults, and it’s so refreshing to have a book with people closer to my age 😂! I loved this one and highly recommend this se🫦xy story!
I especially loved the subtle Jab our MMC made about vampires 😂.
I especially loved the subtle Jab our MMC made about vampires 😂.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2025
This one took some turns, I wasn't expecting, and it was very good. I liked the terms
May 14, 2025
This was sweet, fun, hot and cute! And it was well -written! By this I don't just mean the characters, setting but also the seamless,non-preachy weaving of elements of immigrants, community and consent. Most importantly, the thing that I liked was how the mcs were accomplished adults and their dialogue reflected it! ( It even had words with more than two syllables! A nice change of pace iykyk)
June 18, 2024
First of all, I want to thank the author for the opportunity to review this book and for sending me the ARC. It has been an absolute delight to read. I think my levels of obsession with the story rival those of Marco when it comes to Anna (and many other things, really, the man needs a break 🤣).
After the background given in chapter one, the story starts with a tenured MIT professor who realizes that there’s something missing in her life. She’s beginning to understand that, despite being proud of her achievements, she feels the need to explore “the real world” in ways she hadn’t dared to when she was younger. On the other side we have Marco, a made man who values his family and the work he does to protect it above everything else and who thinks the only way he can be what his family needs is to have control over everything and sacrifice his own desires and happiness in the process. Anna’s opportunity to test her mettle against corporate finance sends her on a collision course with Marco, who gets a glimpse of a future he never dared to wish for shoved in front of his eyes.
I really, really loved this book. It’s very well written, the world is built beautifully and the paranormal elements fit so perfectly that they feel natural. And the banter! The banter is amazing!! 😍 The characters are relatable to the max, I clicked with Anna almost immediately and continued to understand her inner conflict and decision making process so effortlessly that it was an utter pleasure to keep reading page after page. The tension building chapter after chapter as our main characters interacted kept me at the edge of my seat and promising myself I’d stop after one more chapter (who was I kidding, right? 😂). I’ll wrap up saying that I found the ending deeply satisfying and I am eager to read more stories set in this world ❤️.
And now, I will proceed to recommend this story to everyone who will hear me 🥰
After the background given in chapter one, the story starts with a tenured MIT professor who realizes that there’s something missing in her life. She’s beginning to understand that, despite being proud of her achievements, she feels the need to explore “the real world” in ways she hadn’t dared to when she was younger. On the other side we have Marco, a made man who values his family and the work he does to protect it above everything else and who thinks the only way he can be what his family needs is to have control over everything and sacrifice his own desires and happiness in the process. Anna’s opportunity to test her mettle against corporate finance sends her on a collision course with Marco, who gets a glimpse of a future he never dared to wish for shoved in front of his eyes.
I really, really loved this book. It’s very well written, the world is built beautifully and the paranormal elements fit so perfectly that they feel natural. And the banter! The banter is amazing!! 😍 The characters are relatable to the max, I clicked with Anna almost immediately and continued to understand her inner conflict and decision making process so effortlessly that it was an utter pleasure to keep reading page after page. The tension building chapter after chapter as our main characters interacted kept me at the edge of my seat and promising myself I’d stop after one more chapter (who was I kidding, right? 😂). I’ll wrap up saying that I found the ending deeply satisfying and I am eager to read more stories set in this world ❤️.
And now, I will proceed to recommend this story to everyone who will hear me 🥰
July 13, 2024
A very slow burn mafia romance. I was relieved the last 30% when major events started occurring and wished there was more throughout the story. I liked the blood demon aspect and the feedings did it for me! If you are a lover of world building and love a good & slow office romance, this one is for you.
June 18, 2024
Beautifully executed.
I absolutely adored this book. I was captivated right from the start.
I loved the fact that the characters were more mature in age.
And don't get me started on the tension, whoa, it was fantastic, and the slow burn had me almost tearing my hair out.
It was fast-paced and was the perfect blend of Mafia and Paranormal. Anna and Marco were perfectly matched. Their dynamics and interactions were highly entertaining.
I read this book in one sitting,
I couldn't get enough, I already want to reread.
I absolutely adored this book. I was captivated right from the start.
I loved the fact that the characters were more mature in age.
And don't get me started on the tension, whoa, it was fantastic, and the slow burn had me almost tearing my hair out.
It was fast-paced and was the perfect blend of Mafia and Paranormal. Anna and Marco were perfectly matched. Their dynamics and interactions were highly entertaining.
I read this book in one sitting,
I couldn't get enough, I already want to reread.
July 18, 2024
Her Dark Salvation mixes two of my favorite things, paranormal and mafia romance. I really enjoyed the main characters and loved that our FMC is in her 40s. I loved watching her leave her comfort zone and go after things she wants for herself. The book is well written and the romance and spice were also great! I love that this is the start of an interconnected stand alone series and will definitely pick up the rest of the books as they’re published.
June 8, 2024
Once again, Katelyn Brehm gives us a relatable mature woman who has more on her plate than just her love life. As we already know from her Demons among Us novellas, that's going to be a good ride. But Bonded in Blood is setting out to be much darker, with the supernatural nature being not the only thing dangerous about her love interest.
I was at first a bit put off by Marco's macho attitudes, but thanks to the way we see him through Anna's eyes, his charm grew on me - and seeing his perspective on things helps further. I'm not sure we can go so far as to call him a mafioso with a heart of gold, but he certainly has a moral code that lets us empathise with his choices.
Overall, it's great to see the two of them grow closer and bring out the best in each other over the course of this longer form story.
If you liked Katelyn's previous stories and are in for a darker tone, I'm sure you'll find a lot to love here. And if you haven't read any of them, this will make a great place to start! It's a great mix of character growth, relationship development and a fair bit of good steam.
Now where can I get my own blood demon lover?
I was at first a bit put off by Marco's macho attitudes, but thanks to the way we see him through Anna's eyes, his charm grew on me - and seeing his perspective on things helps further. I'm not sure we can go so far as to call him a mafioso with a heart of gold, but he certainly has a moral code that lets us empathise with his choices.
Overall, it's great to see the two of them grow closer and bring out the best in each other over the course of this longer form story.
If you liked Katelyn's previous stories and are in for a darker tone, I'm sure you'll find a lot to love here. And if you haven't read any of them, this will make a great place to start! It's a great mix of character growth, relationship development and a fair bit of good steam.
Now where can I get my own blood demon lover?
June 17, 2024
Title: Her Dark Salvation by Katelyn Brehm
Bonded in Blood book 1
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars
Release date: July 18th 2024
A midlife awakening thrusts Anna, a mousy professor, into a dangerous world she never imagined. Determined to prove herself outside the walls of academia, she finds herself entangled with Marco DeVita, a made man in the Italian Mafia and an immortal blood demon.
Despite his domineering and dangerous nature, Anna is drawn to Marco, craving the dark salvation he offers.
Bound by heritage, family, and blood, Marco DeVita has been part of the Boston underworld for nearly a century.
With betrayal lurking within his crew, he needs Anna Barone’s expertise to find the traitor. But Anna is more than just an asset—her brilliance, temper, and allure make Marco’s fangs ache with desire. Caught between his duty and his growing passion, Marco must navigate a world where everything comes at a price.
What I Loved:
* Mature Characters: I absolutely loved that the main characters were of a more mature age. It’s refreshing to see a romance that centres on older protagonists.
* Dual POVs: The story is told from both Anna and Marco’s perspectives, offering a rich, multifaceted view of their inner thoughts and emotions. This dual narrative adds depth to the story and allows readers to fully understand the motivations and conflicts of both characters.
* Unique Concept: The blend of Mafia dynamics with the supernatural element of blood demons was incredibly unique and intriguing. This veiled layer of the supernatural woven into the gritty world of the Mafia added a fascinating twist that kept me hooked. Just this concept and how this world has been built, has me anxiously waiting for the next instalments.
* Intense Chemistry: The chemistry between Anna and Marco is electric. Their interactions are charged with tension and desire, making their relationship both compelling and steamy. The contrast between Anna’s academic background and Marco’s dark world creates an engaging dynamic that burns slowly.
* Well-Paced Plot: The pacing of the book is perfect, with a balance of action, suspense, and romance. The storyline unfolds smoothly, keeping me engaged and eager to see how Anna and Marco’s relationship would develop amidst the dangers surrounding them.
* Strong Female Protagonist: Anna is a strong, intelligent, and resilient character. Her journey from a sheltered academic to a woman who stands her ground in a dangerous world is inspiring and adds a lot of depth to her character.
* Marco’s Complexity: Marco is not just a typical alpha male. His internal struggle between his duty and his growing feelings for Anna adds layers to his character, making him more relatable and human despite his supernatural nature.
* Engaging Writing Style: Katelyn Brehm’s writing is captivating and easy to follow. The world building and unique concepts brings this story to life and me eagerly flipping the pages. The dialogue is sharp, the descriptions vivid, and the emotional beats hit just the right notes.
Her Dark Salvation by Katelyn Brehm is a thrilling, unique romance that deftly blends the worlds of Mafia intrigue and supernatural fantasy. With mature, well-developed characters, a sizzling romance, and a plot full of twists and turns, this book is a must-read. I couldn’t put it down and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh and exciting romance novel.
Thank you to The Publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op ,The Author Katelyn Brehm & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
July 24, 2024
So this book had a good premise and a few interesting things going on. The problem is that it is just so goddamn slow and therefore kind of boring. I never really got into the story because nothing really happened until the end. And even then it just left me feeling more 'whatever' than anything. One of the main reasons I requested this was because I'm a sucker for books where the FMC is a quiet shy girl because I can totally relate to that. So imagine my surprise when this supposed wallflower is suddenly showing up to a high society function with the host, wearing a plunging dress that anybody who panics when they're around that many people would never wear fully confident in herself. I get that she wanted to change and be less shy. But that's something that does not happen overnight like here.
Okay, so. Marco is a vampire, but they don't call themselves that. They are called blood demons in this series. Not sure that name helps their cause, but okay. He grew up dirt poor. So much so that his mother had to literally sell her blood in order for them to eat. He found himself joining the mafia when he was a child and growing up immersed in that world. But he wasn't doing it for himself. He has this driving force that makes him think he has to protect everyone, but especially take care of his family. But when they start getting into things that he wants no part of, he leaves and sets off on his own. Fast forward to now and he's built himself his own empire both in American and overseas. Unfortunately, it's looking like he has a thief in his employ and needs help finding out who. That's where Anna comes in.
Anna is a professor at MIT who is bored with her life. Honestly, that's what it all comes down to. The author plays it up as some mid-life awakening (which every time I read that it grated on me), but we all know what it really is. She decides she needs a change and takes a sabbatical without knowing what she's going to do. And as if by magic, her best friend just so happens to have the perfect job for her. See, her whole career is based on these simulations she runs to figure out company expenses or whatever. I'm greatly over simplifying it, but lets just say her program is EXACTLY what Marco needs to find how he's losing so much money.
The lust is strong with these two from the moment they meet and they're always thinking of the other from then on. Anna finding out he has ties to the mafia should deter her....but of course it doesn't. Even when she more or less finds out what Marco truly is by accident, she can't walk away from him. Which I guess ends up being a good thing because when something bad happens and she acts like a fucking idiot running into traffic and then just stops, Marco is able to save her after she's hit by a car. And then we get the typical insta-love professing that always does bug me so.
Anyway. Aside from this tedious love story, Anna does manage to figure out who is stealing from Marco thanks to her program. The blow he takes from this is a hard one to be sure and he never saw it coming. Though he probably should have. But wow does this traitor suffer for their actions in the end.
Fearing that the rest of this series is going to be like this one (slow), I'm probably not going to be checking out any more of it. But if a slow burn romance is your thing, you'd probably enjoy this a lot more than I did.
Okay, so. Marco is a vampire, but they don't call themselves that. They are called blood demons in this series. Not sure that name helps their cause, but okay. He grew up dirt poor. So much so that his mother had to literally sell her blood in order for them to eat. He found himself joining the mafia when he was a child and growing up immersed in that world. But he wasn't doing it for himself. He has this driving force that makes him think he has to protect everyone, but especially take care of his family. But when they start getting into things that he wants no part of, he leaves and sets off on his own. Fast forward to now and he's built himself his own empire both in American and overseas. Unfortunately, it's looking like he has a thief in his employ and needs help finding out who. That's where Anna comes in.
Anna is a professor at MIT who is bored with her life. Honestly, that's what it all comes down to. The author plays it up as some mid-life awakening (which every time I read that it grated on me), but we all know what it really is. She decides she needs a change and takes a sabbatical without knowing what she's going to do. And as if by magic, her best friend just so happens to have the perfect job for her. See, her whole career is based on these simulations she runs to figure out company expenses or whatever. I'm greatly over simplifying it, but lets just say her program is EXACTLY what Marco needs to find how he's losing so much money.
The lust is strong with these two from the moment they meet and they're always thinking of the other from then on. Anna finding out he has ties to the mafia should deter her....but of course it doesn't. Even when she more or less finds out what Marco truly is by accident, she can't walk away from him. Which I guess ends up being a good thing because when something bad happens and she acts like a fucking idiot running into traffic and then just stops, Marco is able to save her after she's hit by a car. And then we get the typical insta-love professing that always does bug me so.
Anyway. Aside from this tedious love story, Anna does manage to figure out who is stealing from Marco thanks to her program. The blow he takes from this is a hard one to be sure and he never saw it coming. Though he probably should have. But wow does this traitor suffer for their actions in the end.
Fearing that the rest of this series is going to be like this one (slow), I'm probably not going to be checking out any more of it. But if a slow burn romance is your thing, you'd probably enjoy this a lot more than I did.
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