We didn’t inherit this city—we took it. Power like this doesn’t come without blood, secrets, and enemies. The FBI is circling, the walls are closing in, and this is the worst possible time to lose focus. Especially for her.
Madison Roark wasn’t supposed to be anything more than a one-night escape—just a beautiful distraction I’d forget the next morning. But I keep seeing her–everywhere. In my thoughts and slipping into the dark corners of my world like she belongs there. I can’t stop craving her—even when nothing about her adds up. Perfection like that comes with a price, and I can feel it—she’s hiding something.
MADISON
A new city. A fresh start. A new life. After graduation, I swore I’d stay away from anything that could expose me. But then he happened—Cillian O’Brien. I should’ve run the second he looked at me like he owned me. Instead, I crossed a line I can’t uncross—letting him be my Daddy.
Now I’m tangled in something dangerous—deep in his world and falling hard for him among a web of lies. But if he ever finds out who I really am… loving him won’t save me. It might just get me killed.
When lies run deep and loyalty cuts like a knife, someone always pays the price—and this truth could bring an empire to its knees.
J.L. Quick is an author of spicy, dark, contemporary (18+) romance novels and novellas. Utilizing a mixture of her life experiences and Master's degree in Psychology, she creates deep, rich characters who battle their demons while finding savage and brutal love. In her free time, she enjoys reading, food festivals, visiting distilleries, and cult-classic movies. J.L. Quick resides in the Mid-Atlantic with her husband and the pack of pitties.
Madison Roark, stage name Raven, has every eye in King’s Temptation on her, most notably, Cillian King. She may have rejected him spectacularly at The Corner Pub, but he is nothing, if not determined. He has no qualms with sitting in the owners’ booth for every one of her shifts ensuring not a single patron touches what is his.
Yes! Yes! Yes! I loved Submitting! I figured out the twist very (very) early, but it didn’t even matter. This installment felt much more like a mafia romance with a peek behind the curtain.
Our main characters had great banter and smoking chemistry! I loved having the “side” characters be such an integral part of the story. But most of all, Cian, made the story. Cian’s devotion to those he loves, especially the women in his life, knows no bounds. As evidenced by Eavan and, now, Madison. and did I mention he’s the epitome of a Daddy?
So excited to watch Nik fall in love!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Darkness: 🖤🖤 Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Range of Emotions: 😂🤭🥵😳😍 Ending: 💗 {HEA} POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance 🗂️ Subgenre(s): Dark, New Adult, Suspense
✨ Tropes: Found Family, Hidden Identity, Mafia/Bratva/Organized Crime, Workplace
💫 Microtropes: Alphahole, Boy Obsessed, Branding, “Good Girl”, Jealous/Possessive, MINE!, Pet Name, Sassy FMC, Sėx Worker, Touch-Her-and-💀,
⚠️ Warning: This one-handed read may cause blushing, squirming, combusting panties, and/or self-care. It may also leave you questioning your morals.
🚩 Safety Squad: Abuse & Attempted Așșault (Not by MMC), Unalìvíng, Violence, and other potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!
📣 Type: Submitting to Daddy is part of the Dark Daddies of New York series of interconnected standalones. The couple gets their HEA/HFN, but the overarching storyline will continue in future books. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
📚📚📚 This was yet again another JL Quick book that just overall consumed me from beginning to end!! I binged this baby in one sitting like I do with all JLs books because I can just never get enough. The spice was top tier as always and Cillian OMG!! He is THE DADDY and completely has me wrapped around his finger too! 😅 Madison I loved!! The way she was for our Cillian was everything!! That mouth was zipped the moment she was falling hard. The chemistry was just to good between these two. That ending had my mouth on the floor I was not ready but it had me clicking to the last page so quickly! Overall I highly recommend reading this one.
I already can’t wait for the next book!! 📚📚📚 If you like to read: - Mafia - Daddy Kink - Age Gap - Secret Identity - Boss/Employee - Obsessed MMC - Found Family - Midnight Ballerina … You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy
I would gladly read Cillian and Madison’s story over and over again. Yes, I loved everything about Cillian King, he is determined, persistent, protective and down right hot, but there was just something about Madison’s character that I gravitated to.
She meets Cillian at a pub her first night in town and of course does what every woman would do when a super attractive, powerful man approaches her…turns him the F down. Better yet, she did so with such sassy and confidence letting him know that he will be seeing more of her soon. Cillian had no idea he was flirting with one of his new employees, but when he sees her dancing at his club he can’t take his eyes off of her. Cillian was definitely not prepared to go through the depths of hell for and with her, but once his eyes were set on her, he had to have her.
This gave off some spicy cat and mouse vibes and I loved how she made him work for it. When the twists came I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough to find out what was going to happen. I was completely engulfed in this story and what would ultimately happen in the end. There was a lot of banter with the side characters as well that I enjoyed. It really helped tie the stories together.
Cillian not only showed what kind of man he was, but also showed what he would do to protect the women in his life. He was ready to step in the line of fire between her and his brothers to prove to her that she was everything to him. Madison brought out the best in him regardless of how they got there. I had no doubt in my mind when Madison came to the fork in the road and had to decide between her future with him or without him. She jumped all the way in with Cillian, straight into the unknown.
We can’t forget the Daddy vibes this man gave off right from the start. He embodies everything it means to be a “Daddy”. Protecting her, caring for her, providing for her, and praising her..in and out of the bedroom. When those spicy scenes came up they were super hot!!!
Now I will be not so patiently waiting for the next book in the series.
Cillian (Cian) is one of the 3 Kings of New York and he is used to getting what he wants. So when the beautiful Madison shoots him down, he is at a loss for words. It had me cracking up! She left him speechless!!
Madison Roark or Raven on stage as Cian soon learns has captivated him and he can’t keep his eyes off of her. They have this chemistry that pulls each other together. They have this constant push and pull. And she sure keeps him on his toes. And her bratty mouth, whew. He wants to be her Daddy and take care of her, but also teach her a few lessons. He is instantly protective over her, he may not know her, but inside he knows she is the one. But what he doesn’t know, Madison has some secrets that may just tear them all apart. Could he ever forgive her?
The spice in this book is freaking fire and electric. The chemistry between them is instant and electric. The banter is amazing between all the characters. But there’s also the danger and secrets that are bound to unfold.
Gah I loved Cillian story! It wasn’t what I expected at all. J.L. Quick can write some amazing men. This is the second book in the Dark Daddies of New York series. You do have to read these books in orders.
Tropes: Mafia Daddy Kink Age Gap Secret Identity Boss/Employee Obsessed MMC Found Family
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Madison finds herself in a new city with a new job. We know that she is keeping a secret but she only has one rule. Not to fall for her new boss.
Cillian, Enzo and Nikolai have all opened Kings Temptation. They are trying to right the wrong that their fathers did. When Cillian sees the woman he can’t get out of his mind on stage he knows he needs her wants to make her his.
This book is a quick spicy read. It definitely will keep you on your toes. There are definitely had some twist in this book one I saw coming the other I did not. I can’t wait for Nikolai book I think his is going to be my absolute favorite. We get a sneak peak of his story as the end of this book.
*** I want to thank J.L. Quick and Grey’s Promotions for giving me the chance to read submitting to Daddy as an ARC. In exchange for my honest review and thoughts.****
Cillian's eye catches on a new face in a local bar where he's with his King brothers. Madison doesn't immediately drop and kneel down for him. He's literally shot down and sees her later as she working at their new VIP strip club.
Madison is feisty and wasn't going to take Cillian's heavy handedness at work. These two gave such strong cat and mouse vibes where each was the cat or mouse at some point during the chase. When Cillian rescues her from a terrible guest encounter only to take her home to nurse her back to health... yes, please! This forces their proximity and no longer a dance between them of, Will they or Won't they. Cillian's definitely got all the Daddy vibes when Madison starts to call him daddy. I loved watching these two bend for each other. Super smoking hot spicy scenes, and I can't wait for Nikolai to fall next!
⚠️ Read content and trigger warnings ⚠️
Thank you, author, for the ARC! Release Date: August 21, 2025
Fast paced, high spice and a plot twist I didn’t completely see coming would be how I describe this book.
As the reigning Kings of New York continue to rule over the city, Cillian is brought to his knees by Madison, a dancer at their club. Strong and quite bratty, this girl keeps Cillian on his toes and brings out his “Daddy” side in the best way. The chemistry was instant, their connection electric and the spice… scorching hot! Not that I would expect anything less from this author. And that ending!!! I simply can’t wait to see where this story goes.
I would like to thank J.L. Quick and Grey’s Promotions for the opportunity to read and review Submitting to Daddy.
Obsessed with this book!! Haven’t read much by this author, but I will be!! Cillian and Madison were everything and I wish I could read their story for the first time all over again!! The story is not what I expected at all and I think that is what makes it so good to me. I can’t wait to read the next one!!
*ARC REVIEW* Powered thru this smutty palette cleanser pretty quickly. I was never a “daddy” kink kinda girl, but could tolerate it usually…..until this book. It feels quick, gets a little cringe, but there IS a plot mixed in somewhere between “Daddy”s. I think if I didn’t get the ick from the repetitive word use, I would’ve enjoyed it more.
Oh sweet honey butter. This read was fucking incredible. I really liked Claimed by Daddy but oh my god, Submitting had me BLUSHING. This book follows Cillian and Madison, Madison is a dancer for the new King club and she entrances him on a chance encounter before he knows who she is. These two are so dang hot together, and that plot twist?! Oh my god! It got me so good. I'm so stoked to see how Nik's story will play out but currently, Cillian and Madison are my dream couple. Absolutely recommend, if you like mafia, workplace, forced proximity and some super spicy scenes.
This is book 2 in the Dark Daddies of New York series & it did not disappoint In the first book we saw the love Cillian had for his sister…he would burn the world to the ground to keep her safe….he’s her big brother…that was his job…book two we saw how he treats the woman he loves….we thought his love for Eavan was it….how could he love & protect anyone more than her….his love for Madison though….he would of burned the entire world including himself down to the ground to keep her safe Madison loved him right back….she literally turned her whole entire world inside out for him…I’m not giving anything extra away so you will have to read the book to see what I’m talking about….just trust that the level of love she had for that man was everything plus some There was a twist in there I was pretty sure I had figured out but wasn’t positive until I got there…that ending though….definitely didn’t see that coming at all….the cliffhanger for Niks book…love it but I have a hard time waiting
ETA: just finished the ALC (thank you JL & Blue nose!) and boy oh boy the way they brought Cill to life 🥵😮💨 as much as I loved reading, i definitely recommend the audio or immersive reading!
I was so excited for Cillian after reading Enzo’s book and it really just hit the mark for me. I’m so excited for Niko’s book now, from what I’ve seen of him I think he might end up being my favorite 👀
One hidden identity, one dangerously devoted Daddy, and a city already bleeding secrets 🖤🔥
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️🌶️☆☆ (3/5) Audiobook: 🎧 Duet-style Series: Dark Daddies of New York, Book 2 (can be listened to as a standalone)
Submitting to Daddy is a sharp, fast-burning mafia romance that leans fully into obsession, protection, and power dynamics, with just enough suspense to keep your pulse racing between spicy scenes. As book two in the Dark Daddies of New York series, it proves this world isn’t slowing down. It’s getting darker, hotter, and far more emotionally charged.
This is one of those stories that knows exactly what it is and executes it with confidence. Found family, hidden identities, and a hero who goes full “mine” without blinking? J.L. Quick delivers that energy in spades. The pacing is tight, the tension stays high, and the emotional stakes cut deeper than expected for such a quick, addictive read.
The Story
Cillian O’Brien didn’t take over this city by being soft and the last thing he needs is distraction. But Madison Roark crashes into his world like a spark in dry gasoline. What was supposed to be one night turns into something far more dangerous when she keeps slipping into his orbit… and into his control.
Madison is running from a past that could destroy her future. Cillian is the kind of man who becomes your future the second you let him. Their connection quickly spirals into something possessive, protective, and deeply intimate. But lies are everywhere in this world, and when her secrets surface, loving him might not be enough to save her.
What I Loved
✔️ Heavy Daddy energy with real emotional grounding ✔️ Fast, gripping pacing with solid suspense ✔️ Found-family dynamics that give the world depth ✔️ Possessive, protective MMC who commits hard ✔️ Twists that keep you guessing (and sweating) ✔️ A sneak peek that makes book three look absolutely lethal
🎧 Narration
Narrated in duet-style by Lucy Rivers and Tyler Griffin, and honestly, no notes. Lucy Rivers is a standout, pulling you straight into Madison’s emotional world with warmth, vulnerability, and fire. Tyler Griffin matches her intensity perfectly, giving Cillian a commanding, controlled edge that hits exactly right. Together, they elevate the story into a full-on audio experience.
Submitting to Daddy is dark, spicy, addictive, and emotionally sharper than expected. It’s a quick read that doesn’t waste time, delivers intense connection, and leaves you hungry for what’s coming next, especially after that tease for Nikolai’s story. J.L. Quick clearly knows how to keep her readers hooked. And yes. I’ll be first in line for book three.
The second I started reading, I couldn't put it down. The way the attraction morphed into caring and then loving was perfect. It was a fast burn for sure, but it felt right, and I loved it.
Madison was brave, fierce, and so confident. I loved how she didn't shy away from teasing him and making him regret forcing her hand by dancing and making him jealous. She had a huge secret I didn't see coming. I truly enjoyed the reveal, and even if harsh, I liked that she was willing to do anything for him and to get his trust back. She was a badass, and I loved her character.
Cillian was direct and knew what he wanted, and since seeing Madison, he couldn't see anything else. She was it for him, and absolutely nothing would stand between them, not even Madison herself. He was possessive from jump and his jealous moments were the best. I love how he wanted nothing more than to keep her hidden, and even then, he relented when she asked to dance. The way he found out the truth was hurtful, and I totally understood his initial reaction, but even then, I knew this man was so far gone he would have forgiven almost anything.
I can't wait to read the last book in this series...and WE GOT A SPIN-OFF!!! I'm so happy we are getting more dark MMCs with risky business going on. I can't wait to read about all of them falling so hard in love that they can't get up.
Thank you, GreyPR and J.L. Quick for this e-arc!!
Quotes:
He's touching me like I'm already his, like he's trying to memorize the way I feel in his hands before he pushes this moment too far. And God, I want him to.
I want her. I want Madison with all her mess, fire, and complete with smart-ass bratty retorts.
"Honesty is that I'm fucking obsessed with you -unhealthily and viscerally. I think about you every fucking second of every day. The thought of another man being this close to you-putting his hands on you-fills me with a rage so deep there aren't fucking words to describe it."
"I'm going to take care of you, firecracker. Daddy will always take care of you."
"You're mine now." And I'm not letting her go.
It's not about control and domination. It's about responsibility and care—, making you feel secure enough to give yourself to me without ever questioning whether I'll hold you or hurt you.
"Touch that pretty little pussy while you let me fuck your mouth. I want you moaning with my cock in your throat as you make yourself so wet for me that you're dripping."
"God isn't making you come, firecracker. Daddy is."
"My dirty girl likes being filled and owned, doesn't she?"
"Take every fucking inch. Show me who you belong to."
"Nothing matters. Except you. I love you. My heart doesn't care that we practically just met. I love you so fucking much it hurts."
"What I feel for you... This isn't a fairytale love. It's a fucking obsession, devotion so deep it borders on madness."
"I'll kill for you. I'll bleed for you. I'll forgive you again and again if I have to. But make no mistake, firecracker, I'll never let you go."
"My cunt. My wife's perfect pussy."
"There is nothing that could keep me from you. I would burn cities to the ground and wage wars to bring you home if anyone dared take you from me."
"I would crawl back to you from the depths of hell to spend the rest of your life with you. And when your time finally came, I would fight my way through the pearly gates to have the rest of eternity with you. Because this one short lifetime isn't enough to show you how much I love you."
Submitting to Daddy book 2 of the Dark Daddies of New York, J.L Quick you just keep putting out hit after hit! I devoured each and every page of this read! This read, this series will have you on your knees begging for more!
You had me gripping my Kindle and melting with each word! Cillian and Madison was written perfectly for each other. Their strong personality and their love is no match for those who will try to come between them. They are a true power couple!
She is the only woman to tell him no, to stand up to him and prove that she can't be controlled. He falls hard and is obsessed with her.
Madison knows if she falls for him, if she gives into his desires, if she gives him control, it will ruin what she has work towards. He is her boss and she knows she needs to keep things professional. Dancing in his club and going against his rules puts her in danger. When she gets hurt he not only goes into over protection mode, he takes care of her and their feelings for each other can't be denied. You dont look, touch or think about her. He is not your typical hero, but he saves her in so many ways.
With each moment she spends with him and his family, she feels as she belongs there, knowing she is not who they think she is. Finding out her true identity can get her unalived.
She desperately tries to resist but she knows she is far gone and she has to make a decision to go through with her duties and betray the man who holds her heart or leave behind who she truly is and become part of a world she was supposed to take down.
They both have to make a choice. He is broken hearted, angry with her betrayal, but can't find it in him to unalive her. She does whatever it takes to prove her love, her loyalty, that she belongs to him! These two will fight to keep each other and protect on another. The twist and turns, the betrayal, the emotions you will go through and those spicy scenes when Madison is submitting to Daddy has this read's rating at ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and more!
J.L is the queen of spice and her writing will have you turning red in the best ways possible! I love it! Cillian is a dom, punishes Madison in a way that brings her to tears with desire and her knees. 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Alright, book bestie, you need to clear your schedule and prepare yourself, because I just finished "Submitting to Daddy" by J.L. Quick, and holy amazing-ness, this series just keeps getting hotter and hotter! This is the second book in the Dark Daddies of New York Series, and while you could read it as a standalone, trust me, you'll want the full experience starting from book one.
Meet Your New Obsession: Cillian & Madison So, let's talk about Cillian (Cian) O’Brien. He's one of the three Kings of New York, and truly, he is Daddy material. The moment he meets Madison Roark in a dive bar on her first night in town, she fantastically shoots him down. Our poor Cian is not used to women saying no to him, and honestly, I was dying laughing! But that's exactly why Madison is his perfect match and equal in every single way. She doesn't just bow down to him; she challenges him. You just know Cillian is going to fall hard for her, and he absolutely does not disappoint. He's powerful and ruthless, but when it comes to Madison, he's incredibly soft, protective, and completely obsessive in the best possible way. He truly makes her feel like the most important person in his life.
Danger, Desire, and Scorching Heat The chemistry between Cillian and Madison? It's so freaking hot. Every single spicy scene is perfection, scorching hot and absolutely next-level. Add in the fact that the feds are breathing down the Kings' necks, and someone isn't all they seem to be... this book has it all. The secrets in this story are fantastic, and I loved how Cillian handled the big one Madison was holding from him. And can we talk about the ending? My jaw dropped! J.L. Quick didn't just end this book; she left us absolutely salivating for Nik's story. I'm so excited for the next book, and I know it's going to be just as addictive.
"Submitting to Daddy" delivers a dark, delicious blend of mafia danger, heart-pounding suspense, and swoon-worthy romance that will have stars dancing in your eyes. This book is everything you want and more. If you love mafia and "daddy" books, this one is a 5-star spice-filled banger that you absolutely cannot miss!
Madison meets Cillian at a pub her first night in town and of course does what every woman would do when a super attractive, powerful man approaches her...turns him the down… and says she will see him again very soon and that throws him off as he watches her walk out of this pub.
Now it is the opening night of Kings Temptation, cillians club and that’s when he spots her on stage but as ‘Raven’ there is no mistake on who she is and it’s clearer when she turns and their eye meet.
When the twists came I couldn't flip the pages fast enough to find out what was going to happen. I was completely engulfed in this story and what would ultimately happen in the end. There was a lot of banter with the side characters as well that I enjoyed. It really helped tie the stories together.
Cillian not only showed what kind of man he was, but also showed what he would do to protect the women in his life. He was ready to step in the line of fire between her and his brothers to prove to her that she was everything to him. Madison brought out the best in him regardless of how they got there. I had no doubt in my mind when Madison came to the fork in the road and had to decide between her future with him or without him. She jumped all the way in with Cillian, straight into the unknown.
But we can’t forget about the Daddy vibes this man gave off right from the start. He embodies everything it means to be a "Daddy". Protecting her, caring for her, providing for her, and praising her..in and out of the bedroom. When those spicy scenes came up they were HOT. 🥵
But the thing that threw me off the most was what Madison was there to do from the beginning but so much can change when feelings get in the way and she was ALL in, that’s saying from what cillian did to her in her bedroom to the next day when she faced all three men when they were out for her blood she showed them who she truly was and who she stood behind.
NOW I cannot wait for Niks book because those Easter eggs at the end 🥴 and what will Aleks sister truly be like, if she’s all bite. 🤔
Submitting to Daddy is the kind of dark romance that grabs you right from the first page and doesn’t loosen its grip until the end. It’s intense, gritty and absolutely drenched in tension - both sexual and emotional. The story kicks off fast, throwing you into a world of family loyalty, violence, and underground power. Cillian and Madison’s chemistry is instant and electric - the “can’t-look-away” type! I liked that Madison isn’t written as helpless but rather a sharp, stubborn and knows what she wants women. Cillian is the definition of dangerous charm. There were moments when I wanted to shake him and others when I couldn’t help but root for him, he really is very charming. The pacing can feel a little wild but like a crime thriller and a love story crashed into each other but it works if you lean into the chaos. The writing is full of dark atmosphere and those little emotional beats that make you keep turning pages and listening even when you think it’s about to hurt. If you like morally grey characters, high-stakes romance and a heavy dose of heat wrapped in danger then this one’s worth picking up. Not a “soft” love story by any stretch but it nails what dark romance fans usually come for.
(ALC review my own honest opinion) The audio for this book is DUET style and was just as good as the story. The narrators acted it out perfectly.. They didn't read the story but rather gave it life! Tyler Griffin gave each MC their individuality and it was easy to tell whose part he was speaking, and I just adore his voice and emotions he brings. Lucy Rivers as always bring all the spice and feelings to her character, as well as all the tension and reads at the perfect listening pace. Together they work so well to bring the chemistry to life and it may have to be a regular listen for me.. Just amazing.
This book had me hooked from the very start. Madison is sharp, funny, witty – the kind of heroine who makes you grin even when she is being a little reckless. Then there is Cillian, who is arrogant, possessive and so used to getting his own way that Madison pushing back and denying him the first time they meet, genuinely leaves him stunned. The push and pull between them is constant and addictive. He pulls, she pushes, and the sparks fly.
The first time he sees her again? Absolutely hilarious. You can feel his shock that she dares not to fall at his feet immediately. And the best part is she keeps him on his toes the whole way through.
Cillian’s obsession with her is deliciously overbearing. When Madison lands in danger, the way he barrels straight in to protect her – demanding, possessive, but oh so determined to keep her safe – made me melt even while rolling my eyes at his arrogance. He is infuriating and swoony in equal measure.
And the twist. Let me just say, I am rarely surprised by reveals, but Madison’s secret had my jaw on the floor. The fallout is brutal, because you see Cillian caught right in the middle, torn between his family loyalty and his love for her. You feel that conflict in every word, and the moment he chooses her? That is it. He chooses her completely, no half measures, even when his family refuse to trust her. It is messy, intense, and impossible not to root for them.
Their love feels like it costs them both something, but it is also so clear how deep it runs. Madison adores him, even when she knows he is infuriating and once he lets himself love her back, he never lets go.
And that ending?! I am still not over it. The setup for Nik’s story has me buzzing already.
This is the second book in the Dark Daddies of NY series, and I love that it’s Cillian’s story. The way Cillian and Madison meet is the very definition of a meet-cute; girl drinking alone at a bar, a handsome man comes up to buy her a drink with the intent to take her home. The twist? She denies him, knowing he’s actually her boss and has no idea who she is. Cillian never gets turned down so naturally he is more than intrigued.
Cillian and his “brothers,” Enzo and Nikolai, are the leaders of the Kings, a now combined mafia after they all murdered their own fathers. They have opened a new club called Kings Temptation, which is where Cillian sees Madison (aka Raven) a few days after their encounter: stripping on the stage. This is what solidifies his obsession with her, the need to claim her. Madison, on the other hand, is doing all she can to not fall for Cillian because she has some pretty big secrets of her own. Will they be able to find their way to each other and overcome the overwhelming odds against them? Submit to Daddy and find out! 😉
This book is written in dual POV, which I always love. It’s also written in time segments: a couple days later, a week later, etc. I felt in some places this rushed the story and pushed past details that were necessary but only included later as an afterthought, which could be confusing. Overall, it wasn’t enough to make it a DNF because the plot was so good and the characters so well thought out. # mafiaromance #possessivemmc #obsessivemmc #foundfamily #daddykink #secretidentity “workplaceromance #forbiddenromance #brattyfmc
The second book in the Dark Daddies of New York trilogy, a trio of interlinked standalone books featuring the three Kings Cillian O’Brien, Nikolai Romanova and Enzo Roseti and Submitting to Daddy is Cillian’s story. He first meets the heroine, the mysterious Madison Roark when he tries to pick her up in a bar and was instantly intrigued when she shot him down in flames. The next time they meet is when he sees Raven, the new performer at his club and discovers its Madison. But there’s a lot more to Madison that meets the eye, secrets why submitting to him would be so bad but with chemistry sizzling between them it was obvious she wouldn’t be able to hold out for long especially when he insists on being her ‘Daddy’. But just as their relationship develops the FBI are getting closer, just waiting their chance to bring down the Kings and with a traitor in their midst that might be sooner rather than later.
This book was fast paced and easy to read with all the spice you could want. The protagonist, Cillian, was a quintessential all alpha male with a penchant for spanking, which Madison surprisingly embraced. However, her character's sudden transformation after falling with a severe case of instalove for Cillian was a bit surprising as she appeared to switch sides with very little hesitation or hint of a moral dilemma although Cillian’s ensuing actions were a bit extreme and left me a bit stunned. Just as things seemed to settle down, an old adversary emerged from the shadows where they’ve been watching the Kings and gathering information which had implications for Nikolai and has left me looking forward to reading next in the series.
Submitting to Daddy hooked me from the very first page and refused to let go. On the surface, it’s a dark, spicy mafia romance, but at its core, it’s also about loyalty, secrets, and what it means to truly give yourself over to someone, even when it feels terrifying.
Cillian O’Brien is the kind of character who commands every scene he’s in, dangerous, magnetic, and the epitome of a protective Daddy. He’s not just dominant in the bedroom; he’s fiercely devoted, the type of man who will stand between you and the world if it means keeping you safe. Madison, on the other hand, surprised me the most. She’s not your typical damsel caught up in the mafia world; she’s strong, sassy, and holds her own even when the ground beneath her is shifting with secrets and lies.
Their chemistry? Absolutely electric. The push and pull, the banter, and the moments where Madison tests his control made the romance feel alive and addictive. The spicy scenes are everything you’d expect from J.L. Quick: intense, scorching, and yet filled with a surprising tenderness that makes you swoon just as much as it makes you blush.
What I loved most was how the story balanced the heat with the suspense. The FBI closing in, the hidden truths about Madison, and the constant question of loyalty all added a pulse-pounding layer that kept me flipping pages late into the night. And that ending? My jaw was on the floor.
If you’re looking for a romance that blends mafia grit, Daddy-level devotion, and sizzling spice, Submitting to Daddy is the perfect pick. It’s not just a story you read; it’s one you feel, breathlessly, until the very last page.
J.L. Quick's Submitting to Daddy is a scorching-hot dark mafia romance that immerses you in a world of danger, intense chemistry, and shocking secrets. As the second book in the Dark Daddies of New York series, this story perfectly blends an action-packed plot with an explosive, instalust romance that will leave you breathless.
The story introduces Madison Roark, a strong-willed woman on the run from her past, and Cillian O'Brien, a dominant and protective "King of New York". Their first encounter is electric, and when Madison unknowingly takes a job dancing at his club, their connection becomes impossible to ignore. Cillian's possessive and obsessed "Daddy" energy is a major draw, providing a thrilling dynamic with Madison, who proves to be his fierce and sassy match.
Beyond the romance, the plot is full of twists and turns. With the FBI closing in on Cillian's operation, Madison's secrets threaten to unravel, creating a suspenseful layer that will keep you glued to the pages. The author expertly balances the fiery heat of the romance with this pulse-pounding drama, resulting in a read that is both passionate and consuming. The spicy scenes are intense and memorable, but it's the deeper emotional connection that develops between Cillian and Madison that will have you truly invested.
If you're a fan of dark romance tropes like mafia danger, age gaps, and touch-her-and-die possessive heroes, Submitting to Daddy is a must-read. Just be prepared to devour it in one sitting and be ready for more.
Thank you to the author and Grey’s Promo for this ARC, this is my honest review.
When Cillian meets Madison's gaze at a small dive bar he's instantly drawn to her. As a head of the mafia, he's used to getting everything he wants, so when Madison turns him down, he's perplexed and will stop at nothing to make her his.
Madison who is set to be a dancer at the new Kings club tells Cillian he'll be seeing a lot of her soon, but he doesn't put two and two together till he sees her dancing on stage. Our MMC does not like other men touching what is his (or what he thinks is his because Madison reminds him she isn't).
She fights what is brewing between them until she can't deny the chemistry between them, and she doesn't want to.
There's a twist though, is Madison just a dancer, or is she more? Will she be his undoing, or will he be hers?
Spoiler alert..... she ends up saying screw it and throws her original job out the window when she falls in love and her handler comes looking for answers and information for the case building.... She's officially a traitor in some eyes, and a queen to another, well once she endures her punishment.
The spice was spicing, there are some dark themes so check your trigger warnings. It was a different read on behind the scenes of a dark mafia romance.
I gave it 4/5 stars, it definitely kept me entertained, some of the instances of calling him daddy did feel repetitive, and there was one instance in it that made me cringe a little.
Other than that, I can't wait to see what comes next in the King's world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Wow the ending of this book. I was not expecting that one but now I am even more excited to get to Nic's book. J.L. you left us salivating for me with this one. I absolutely loved this book. Cillian and Madison were couple goals. Cillian was not interested in women for more than a good time until he sees Madison in a bar. She does not even give him the time of day. That's when he knew he had found his match. She did not just bow down to Cillian like other women. She even had to try to not fall in love with him. I knew Cillian would fall hard for Madison and he did not disappoint. The secrets in this book were fantastic. I love how Cillian handled the secret that Madison was holding from him. I enjoyed the fact that this book did not have a third act break up. I seriously hate those. I'll read them but I don't have to like them lol. They did not have an easy time at first but once they finally allowed themselves to feel for each other, it was wonderful. Madison needed someone to make her feel like she was the most important person in her life. Cillian did that for her. He did not try to change her or clip her wings. He was very possessive and obsessive but he also allowed Madison some concessions as long as he could keep her safe. I love a good mafia/daddy book and this one delivered. If you love mafia and daddy books, this book is for you.
J.L. Quick wrote another 5-star spice-filled banger with the 2nd book in the Dark Daddies of New York series Submitting to Daddy. I love the way she recapped what happened at the end of the first book from Cillian's perspective and in that recap introduced our FMC Madison. J.L. Quick made me go through the emotional rollercoaster and in some places literally broke me where all I could say was, "No!" Madison the gorgeous, strong, independent, and confident FMC is new to the New York scene and finds herself working as a dancer to help pay her bills. Where her dancing career was going to take her she had no idea and no way to prepare. Cillian our MMC is a member of the KING brothers and they have started a new business to support their new empire. He never thought he would want or need a woman in his life other than to sleep with and leave after. When Madison entered his world, everything he thought about women changed for him. I cannot spoil it, and I won't spoil it for you. This book was perfection and the way Cillian and Madison move through this book and through their worlds is pure perfection. If you have read book 1 Claimed By Daddy, you need to read Submitting to Daddy as soon as it comes out on August 21. If you haven't read book 1, what are you waiting for. You still have time before this beautiful book is released. Go. Now. What are you waiting for?
Submitting to Daddy continues the story of three friends—Enzo, Cicilian, and Nikolai—who now reign over the city under the surname “King.” Together, they have established a high-end club catering to VIP patrons.
This book focuses on Cicilian, who experiences instant attraction upon meeting Madison, only to later discover that she is one of the showgirls in their club. As they spend more time together in their boss and employee dynamic, their relationship develops. The mix of sexual tension, rejection, and undeniable desire adds spice to their growing connection.
The plot twist completely shocked me. I did not see it coming. That turn of events shifted the story into a suspenseful direction, which reminded me of why I loved the first book.
The spicy scenes are plentiful, with many chapters delivering steamy encounters between the two. However, I struggled to connect with their intimacy right after the abuse scene. It felt unreal. it should have happened after some time and they should have waited till she got healed. It is once Madison had worked through the pain and emotional struggle. Instead, it came across as though the trauma had little to no effect on her, which lessened the impact for me.
That said, I’m eager to see what’s next. With hints at Nikolai’s story, I can’t wait to dive into Book 3.