Bound to the Crime Lord

Dark Mafia Tales #2

by Lily Night

She didn’t belong in my world. But I made her stay.

When Juliette saved the life of my right-hand man, she had no idea who she was dealing with. She hates everything about the cartel, but I don’t care. I’ve decided she’s mine, and I always get what I want.

She refuses my offer to become our on-call doctor, but when a rival cartel targets her, she has no choice but to accept my protection. Now, she's under my control, and every time we’re together, the tension burns hotter. Her innocence only makes me want her more—makes me crave to teach her the rules of my world.

I’ll be the man who breaks her—and the one who keeps her. Because Juliette doesn’t know it yet, but she’s already mine.

Publisher Bound to the Crime Lord is the second book in the Dark Mafia Tales series, but it can be read as a standalone. This is a dark mafia romance with many steamy scenes, violence, alpha heroes, and dark secrets.

193 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 30, 2024

Reviews

[Violleta · Rating 4 out of 5]

#părerea_Violetei
#recomandaredelectură

👑Bound to the Crime Lord, Lily Night
194 pagini (Dark Mafia Tales, #2)

👑Posibile spoilere!
👑Juliette Ballard este o tânără doctoriță care lucrează ca medic rezident la un spital din Chicago și a cărei viață a fost mereu dificilă și grea, dar cumva a răzbit mereu, mai ales pentru că trebuie să lupte pentru viața fratelui ei, Ethan. Soarta face ca ea să trateze un tânără care se afla sub protecția întunecatului și periculosului Manuel Gomez, care este regele mafie din oraș, și astfel el intră în viața ei, dându-i-o peste cap și făcând-o să își încalce toate principiile și toate limitele.
👑Manuel este puternic, este dur, duce o viață care este la limită legalități și nu ascunde nicio clipă ceea ce este, dar din momentul în care o întâlnește pe Juliette, știe ca nimeni și nimic nu-l va împiedica să o facă a lui: trup și suflet. Așa ca îi face o ofertă de nerefuzat: el se va ocupa de cheltuielile medicale ale fratelui ei, iar ea îl va recompensa cu munca ei - va trebuie să lucreze pentru el și să locuiască împreună.
👑Juliette respinge propunerea lui Manuel, dar va fi nevoită să se răzgândească deoarece starea de sănătate a fratelui său se înrăutățește, așa ca este nevoită să facă pact cu însuși diavolul. Locuind împreuna cu Manuel, va descoperi sub masca lui întunecată, ca acesta este un om care poate face și bine, care simte și care a fost rănit de prea multe prin, și mai ales, este un om care nu a cerut să facă parte din această viață periculoasă, ci s-a născut în ea și a fost nevoit să ducă mai departe moștenirea lăsată de tatăl său.
👑O serie de secrete bine păstrate vor ieși la suprafață, iar viața celor doi va fi pusă în mare pericol, deoarece trădarea va veni de unde nu se așteptau.
Cine îl trădează pe Manuel și de ce? Cine este Diego și de ce apare în viața lui Manuel? Care este legătura dintre Juliette și Triada (Organizația rivală a Frăției)? Cu ce scop este vizitat Manuel de Andres și Savina Valdez? Se va integra Juliette în viața lui Manuel? Va reuși Manuel să o protejeze pe a lui “Amor”? Răspunsul la întrebări, dar mai ales peripețiile prin care vor trece cei doi protagoniști, le veți afla voi.
👑Mi-a plăcut și acest volum doi al seriei, unde am avut parte de o mulțime de întâmplări. Juliette este o femeie puternică care a ținut piept vieții cu brio, este o femeie care a reușit singură, iar dragostea pentru fratele ei, i-a dat putere, dar când Manuel intră în viața ei, îi va lua de pe umeri o mare povară. Manuel este un bărbat asumat care nu a ascuns nicio clipă cine este și din ce lume face parte, nu a împachetat viața lui în ceva frumos, ci a fost sincer cu Juliette de la început, iar apariția acesteia în viața lui îl face să își dea semna ca nu și-a pierdut umanitatea . Da, recomand și abia aștept să descopăr următoarea poveste din serie, cea a lui Valerio Valdez.
👑”Not everything was black or withe, some things were in fact grey. Grey dindn’t necessarly mean bad but are sometimes necessary.”

[Joanne Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Bound to the Crime Lord” is the second book in the Dark Mafia Tales series, but it can be read as a standalone. This is a dark mafia romance with many steamy moments, smut, violence, alpha heroes, and dark secrets. You will not be able to put it down - I know couldn’t! Manuel is Chicago’s biggest Crime Lord and Juliette is a doctor in the East Garfield Clinic. When an attempt is made to kidnap her, Manuel brings her under his protection.

“Even under the harsh fluorescent lights, his whiskey eyes glistened brilliantly. I had never seen eyes quite like his before. They were smooth like fine liquor yet held so much power that their gaze was unnerving.”

Manuel is extremely attracted to Juliette - he cannot get her out of his mind. He is determined that she will be his and his alone! Juliette is fighting her own conflict of emotions towards Manuel. Can she forget what he does and give into her attraction to him? The heat between them is off the page - it is hot!

This book is a standard Mafia Romance stories, it is dark in places, violent at times, passionate in places, full of secrets, loyalties tested and let’s not forget the heat between Manuel and Juliette. The chemistry between these two are off the page! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part of the Dark Mafia Tales series hang on don’t blink and you might want to make sure to double check that you are buckled up, dangerous men, alpha’s personified possessive, oh so gorgeous, brooding all three makings of a story consisting with the three D’s (dark, delicious, and dirty) 😊. There will be suspense, darkness, secrets revealed, hope, forgiveness, and maybe even love somewhere along the way! Juliette is a doctor who volunteers at a clinic often with a tough skin, sassy, quick on her feet with most and she takes care of her sick little brother lives a peaceful life for the most part until she saves the life of a young man, and that young man happens to be the part of the mafia. Manuel mafia kingpin a man you don’t want on your radar but the moment the little doctor saves his man he knew she was it for him offering her the position of being their on-call doctor her turning him down didn’t stop him however, when she attracts his enemies he offers protection will she accept, the magnetic pull is there the more they try to ignore it the stronger the pull grows but where are they headed with all the betrayals headed their way?

[Anni · Rating 3 out of 5]

★★★☆☆ | Steamy But Shallow — and Missing Some Basics

Manuel and Juliette definitely have chemistry, and the scenes between them are hot — though interestingly, the ones involving Manuel and his escorts had a bit more oomph. Still, the story overall felt like “Mafia-lite” — low on plot, limited character interaction, and lacking the depth or danger I expected from a crime-lord romance.

It was very insta-love, which isn’t my favorite, and I found it all a bit too quick and sweet (verging on sickly at times). Another thing that really bothered me: there was no mention of protection during any of the intimate scenes. In 2025, that feels like a major oversight( unless there is the assumption that protection is always used).

Short, steamy, and easy to read — but ultimately lacking the layers and realism that could have made it memorable.

[Vickie Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I have read by Lily Night, and was just as good as the first. This is the second book in the Dark Mafia Tales Series.

Strong FMC Dark Mafia
Alpha Hero Grumpy/Sunshine
Possessive MMC Enemies to Lovers

Juliette is a surgeon at a prestigious hospital and volunteers at an inner city clinic. She meets Manuel the Chicago Crime Lord after saving one of his men. He becomes obsessed with her and offers her a job in exchange he will pay for her brother's health treatment in Switzerland.

Will they give into the attraction that they share? Will the treatment help her brother? Will she always see him as the d$vil, even though he does good for the community? Let's finish reading to find out!

[Trina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG 😱 this was an FANTASTIC story. It was a steamy page turner and the suspense was intense. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. Juliette is a doctor who save Manuel life. She was very protected over her brother in this moment. She became tempted by Manuel being a mafia boss. When they meet the chemistry was sexual and the physical attraction between them was spicy hotness. Could be falling in love with him or could her life be in danger . He was a powerful man. With unexpected consequences in her life and the people around her too.
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I couldn't suspend belief enough

H: Manuel
h: Jules
Dual 1st person POV
HEA ✔️

I like the synopsis and was looking forward to reading this ARC, but I got pulled out of the story immediately on page 1 when a paracetamol drip is used because nobody in the US uses paracetamol, it's acetaminophen or Tylenol. I realize that could be seen as petty, but I work in medical records and have never seen it in US records. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Then in Chapter 4, Manuel (Mexican born) is calling Jules (French-American) "amore." Why is the Mexican cartel boss using Italian? Why isn't he using Spanish? And then he's using French?! Anything but Spanish, I guess... 🤦🏻‍♀️ I'll be honest, by Chapter 11, when the Mexican born cartel boss greets the FMC with "Bonsoir, amore." I switched to rage reading this book because I'm clearly not able to suspend disbelief enough lol

I liked that in the beginning of the story, Jules came across as a strong woman. Despite her rational fear of Manuel in their first meeting, she was brave and didn't let him see her fear. I really loved how she was with her younger brother, too. But then after the middle of the book where she gives in and sleeps with Manuel, she becomes TSTL.

I dunno, I really wanted to like this book, but had a hard time liking it because of the Italian and French instead of Spanish. And the paracetamol instead of Tylenol/acetaminophen when it's mainly set in Chicago would pull me out of the story, too.

[Joan Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forced

Raising herself and taking care of her sick, juliette was living a good life. Until her brother illness took a turn for the worst. She needed a vast amount of money for him to try a trial drug. Manual wanted something from her and he would pay for all his medical treatment and living expenses. She had a very strong dislike for him. Until her body was ahead of her mind.

Very good story. Note to author. The night he went to the club to save her from herself, he just had sex with a prostate and then had sex with Juliette the same night. No mention of cleaning before having sex with another person.

[Shelly Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Juliette is a doctor who works at a hospital and volunteers at a clinic. She's tough and sassy. She's guardian for her little brother who's ill as well. Manuel is the head of the family who cares for his men. One night they chance to meet when one of his men is injured and they take him to the clinic.

Manuel thinks he just wants Juliette as his on-call doctor and uses her brother as leverage. It's a slow burn that neither really saw coming. There's plenty of twists, turns, a betrayal and betrayal of the betrayer. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Erica Delles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This mafia love story has got it all: romance, spice, witty banter, a strong female lead, a gorgeous male lead, a twist and turn, no third act break-up, and a happily ever after!

I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down after I started it! I needed to know when the tension would pop and what would essentially cause some distress. I was happily surprised by the reveal/s and as things played out, my chest clenched at the end in anticipation and from the developing feels for this couple!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nickie Sale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Juliette is a doctor and finds herself saving the life of the right hand man of the Mafia Kingpin Manuels. What she doesn't expect is to asked to become thier oncall doctor nor does she expect to become the target of a rival mafia cartel.

Juliette needs protection, which Manuel offers to give her. Neither of them admits to the hot chemistry between them, bubbling away in the background so its a bit of a slow burn before that fire is finally ignited. But life, especially one involving the mafia is never that simple so you get a few twists and turns before you get to your HEA.

[Linda Elliott · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a short story About A crime lord who meets his match

When I 1st started reading I noticed there were some mistakes in spelling. But after that There were not as many spelling mistakes. I had a little trouble In my mind placing a doctor who believed in righteousness and was opposed to Mafia people To turning and falling in love with him. But I guess opposites do attract. I like the fact that She was willing to protect her love and that she had met his mother prior without realizing it.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Juliett (Jules) wanted nothing to do with the mafia even after saving Manuels right hand, she refuses his offer of becoming their on call Dr, but when she becomes a target, Manuel offers protection but will being in close quarters bring them closer to something more between them? Well written engaging steamy, obsession desires drama action and more.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Teresa R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devilish Negotiations
As soon as Manuel sees Juliette save one of his men, he knows she’s for him. He just has to convince her. But he’s the crime boss of Chicago and she thinks he’s the devil incarnate. When her life is in danger though, he comes to her aid. And he is soooo hot maybe she can find a way to make this negotiation work for both of them! Something they’ll both benefit from in so many ways.

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Manuel and Juliet's paths cross when she saves the life of a young boy. They come from totally different worlds but when she becomes a target, she takes his protection and their path begins. This story had me all caught up in the dramatic twists and turns that this story takes as I connected with Juliet and Manuel. Will their path lead them to happiness.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[L KQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpected Choice

Juliet and Manuel are attracted to each other and the circumstances that bring them together are less than ideal. However, when danger finds its way into her life, she has no choice but to accept their connection. I have found this story to be interesting and full of twists that are surprisingly entertaining.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Totally hooked on the this story. I couldn’t put it down. Found myself reading it in line at the story. Waiting for a table at the restaurant. Mafia books tend to be about abuse and sex. And then more sex. This actually had a story I enjoyed reading. The characters chemistry flows and they both have strength that worked well with each other.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an enemies to lovers dark romance.
Two different worlds, but they get thrown together. The characters are great , book is exciting with suspense, action, romance and chemistry.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Manuel and Juliette. Hes cartel. Shes a doctor. She has attracted the attention of a rival cartel. Shes forced to except his protection. Just WOW couldnt put this down. Theres all the usual mafia chaos betrayl, suspense, twists turns, danger, intrigue, drama, chemistry and a mafia alpha full of pssessivness, obssession, protectivness and brooding. Their chemistry is a push and pull trying to deny. Loved it. Want more.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cin Pell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mafia with drama, action, passion, a little OW (pre MMC & FMC getting together) that will wrap you in its grasp. You won’t want to put it down until you finally get answers and see how Manuel & Juliette’s story ends.

Wonderfully written and will keep you guessing all while falling in love with these characters!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kelly Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great story that ticked a lot of boxes. I loved the fact we had a strong heroine, who pushes back. Lots of steam, drama and suspense, i will definitely be reading more by this author.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sammye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very well written story. It’s a great romantic /mystery /thriller. Danyelle and Ian meet, literally, by accident! The suspense kept me interested in the outcome. It’s a very entertaining read.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This enjoyable mafia romance has drama, danger, chemistry, alpha Men, great world-building, and defined MCs. I liked this entertaining storyline.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pearl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall, I really enjoyed this book! The plot kept me hooked and excited to see what would happen next. Manuel and Juliette’s love story developed beautifully, and I loved the inclusion of Savina and Andre from Echo of Revenge.

[Amy Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!
Loved reading Bound to the Crime Lord. This action packed book was so good I couldn’t put it down. Juliette and Manuel’s story was super HOT and I loved their story.

[Rhea · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read full of lies, action, manipulation and love!

[Leah · Rating 3 out of 5]

The second book of the series was much different from the first, and one of the firsts I have read with a mafia boss that was your average yet not your average mafia dark romance MMC you usually come across. The MFC was fun and absolutely loved her spunk, drive and attitude throughout too. Little less spice in this one, character building was good, story line was okay for it felt like it was missing key points about the background to the story it at times to why it’s there and now in some parts of the book. Overall enjoyed the read. Plus the books so far in the series can be read together or individually, which is a bonus!

🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2

The second book did have the same as the first with typos, sentences structure and partial portions of sentences paragraphs missing (yes I did try a readd and read from/under different apps besides kindle in case was the cause for the errors and missing parts of the copy received/downloaded), the grammatical errors unfortunately took away parts and sections of the story line, that I felt lost during key parts of the story itself. I do still recommend it for these could have already been seen, caught and addressed prior to being released and did enjoy the second. I am leaving another 3.5 out of 5 review.

*I received a free copy of the book via Booksprout and am sharing this review on my own accord.*