USA Today Best Selling Author T.L. Smith loves to write her characters with flaws so beautiful and dark that you can’t turn away from. Her books have been translated into several languages. If you don’t find her in her home town of Queensland, Australia you can usually find her travelling around the world to sitting on a beach in Bali, to exploring Alcatraz in San Francisco or walking the streets of New York.
Alina and Will meet after she does work on his sister's club and he soon becomes enamored with her, she's stunning and she has this aura about her that just pulls him in. But she suffers no fools and if Will thinks she's going to be an easy lay, he has another thing coming!!!
The sarcasm, the dry wit and the one-liners were pure perfect. But don't be thinking this is all an easy read because it's not, there's secrets, there's danger and a catch up with other characters that I absolutely adored getting!!
Let me tell you this book made me cackle with some of the things Alina said to Will, their banter is hilarious and the spice 👀. Then I loved the book even more when Anya made an appearance. I totally recommend this book!
Alina Harper is currently in England designing clubs. At one opening where there was a little incident getting in she meets the infuriating William Walker. Now, they seem to have to work together on a few opportunities and that may be the worst idea Alina could think of or one of the best…it just depends lol. Oh my, Will is quite the feisty charmer and I’m living for the banter between these two. I loved the tension, the twist and the whole vibe of the enemies to lovers romance. Will definitely will have you smiling from ear to ear! Told in first person and dual POV.
I FUCKING DIED FUCKING DEAD when I heard there was going to be A NEW LETHAL VOWS BOOK. And you bet your ass that I FUCKING PRAYED it was William and YOU BET YOUR ASS I WAS FUCKING RIGHT!
I have NEEDED a William book for AGGEESSS and it is finally here and I am mentally and physically FUCKING SCREAMING. Getting to have more of an insight and depth into the charming and hilarious William was definitely WHAT I FUCKING NEEDED. AND IT WAS EVERYTHING. And I DEFINITELY fell more IN LOVE with him after this book, especially learning what he WENT THROUGH. UGH. The blanket burrito is ready for you baby! And as always, Will had his banter with Alek and River and IT WAS COMEDIC GOLD.
OOFT! *heart eyes* Alina was as fiery and fucking spit-fire as they come! She was INCREDIBLE AND I LOVED HER as soon as she was introduced! Not to mention her growing friendship with Rya and Honey, that shit was FUCKING AWESOME. I loved their little trio, and she definitely deserved to have the love that she got. Even as she was dealing with her past demons, THAT FUCKING PLOT TWIST I WAS NOT EXPECTING AND IT THREW ME THE FUCK OFF TRACK AND I GASPED MY GASP.
And you could have not prepared me for the little cameos from ALL of the previous couples and I WAS FUCKING DYING OVER HERE. Crue, Rya, Honey, Dawson, River, Anya, Alek AND Lena! FUCKING SPEECHLESS! My damn heart was doing somersaults and I just wanted to cry because I COULD NOT. I’m not entirely sure if this is the last book in this series, but if it is, I will say with all my heart that the conclusion for all of the characters in this series tugged at my heart strings with all of their happily ever afters that they all deserved. I loved every single moment of this series and I will always think about these bad ass bitches and these morally grey men looking FINE AS FUCK, and I will love them all forever.
Misguided Vows by T.L. Smith and Kia Carrington Russell is the fifth book in the Lethal Vows series, and it can be read as a standalone. There was an undeniable attraction between Will and Alina from the first time they met. The tension, twists, and enemies-to-lovers romance drew me in, and Alina's comebacks kept me laughing throughout. The spiciness was just right, and the banter was amazing. I loved Will and Alina. It was really enjoyable.
Thank you so much to Hambright PR, T.L. Smith, & Kia Carrington Russell for this e-arc.
I am absolutely obsessed with this one! I loved the tension between Will and Alina. I can’t remember that I ever marked so many lines in a book 😍 I had so much fun reading this book and if life didn’t got in the way I would have devoured this book in a day!!
I was so here for the dry humor and witty one-liners. Will and Alina weren't just hot together, they were hilarious.
Alina is a designer and she recently just finished working on a project in London for Will's sister. Their first interaction - or second or third for that matter - is anything but pleasant. Alina thinks he's an arrogant asshole and Will makes it no secret that she wants her in his bed for a night. Their paths keep crossing when Will recommends Alina to give Dawson's lingerie shop a facelift. He's on her flight, in the hotel she's staying at, at the shop, wherever she goes Will is there, taunting her, slowly breaking down her defenses. And it's not just because he's a tracker, or is it? But if there's something Alina can't resist that's a bet and Will takes full advantage of that.
Will was indeed an arrogant asshole, but once we learned what's he hiding behind this facade, I instantly fell for him. Even though I almost had enough by the near end of him not being able to let go of the past. I loved Alina too, and the playful side Will and his ridiculousness pulled out of her. But my highlight was definitely all the previous characters making an appearance.
A fast paced, easy to read, heavy on the spice and banter, dark romance that’s exactly what you want if you’re a mood reader. If you’re looking for something to bream up big fantasy series or a quick read, this is perfect!
Read this if you’re in the mood for… - interconnected books with a friend group - dark romance - danger (mafia/underground world vibes) - banter and teasing - casual fling turns into more - 3rd act accidental pregnancy
The story is easy to get into and starts right away. I read the first book in the series a while ago and somewhat remember the book but didn’t read 2 or 3 and I still enjoyed this book! The full focus of the story is on them getting together and the obstacles in the way of that. The danger/drama with her ex was a good plot to add and was fun to figure out as I read.
Here are a few of my favorite things… - all the possessive ‘you’re mine’ moments in his POV - I didn’t understand all the references but the other couples were so cute! - the girl group! Makes me want to go back and read the other ones
Overall I enjoyed it! I would recommend for people looking for a mafia or dark romance.
This book was sooo good! I loved the banter and the witty sarcasm between the two characters the steam was spicy hot the whole story was amazing Alina’s and Will’s story was everything I love about a enemies to lovers romance the strong sexual tension the amazing chemistry the push and pull I loved how Alina wasn’t afraid to put Will in his place and I loved how he could get her so worked up their chemistry made for great fun banter and steamy hot sex ! This book is definitely worth rereading again and again! Loved it!
4.5 🌟 3 🌶️ This is crazy, but this may actually be one of my favorite couples. I've loved Will since he first made an appearance and these two were spicy and not all that nice-y. It was a fabulous wild ride that I didn't want to end.
Will and Alina's story was fantastic! The push and pull, the banter and spice, it was just written so well! If you're a fan of the Alliance series by S J Tilly, then this series is for you. It is now continuing on with the next generation! Love it!!
Just like the others in the series this book plays like a movie in my head and I couldn't put it down.
The MFC (Alina) is strong and determined, funny, smart and doesn't need a man to chase her dreams.
The MMC (Will) is stubborn, rich, stalkerish and possessive along with funny and handsome.
They meet because of a job and then refuse to accept the chemistry is more than just a fun time until it's not a fun time anymore.
Loved the dynamic and the back and forth between them all. The awesome couples of Dawson and Honey, Anya and River and Alek and Lena who we already met in the previous books make cameos and help with the story!
The twist was not what I expected and I didn't see it coming.. until it steam trained me and had me gasping!
Read it! You won't be disappointed!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Misguided Vows, co-written by T.L. Smith and Kia Carrington-Russell, is a spicy, enemies-to-lovers, dark romance intended for adult readers due to mature content. This novel is part of the Lethal Vows series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
I really enjoyed this gothic, dark love story between a fiery interior-designer New Yorker, Alina, and William, an English man with blue eyes and a dimpled smile, from London. Full of witty, sarcastic banter between the FMC and MC, dramedy, organized crime and violence, and two lovable yet emotionally-damaged, morally-gray, MCs who find eachother… because of a job.
I really liked Alina and her passion for interior design. Creative and artistic characters are always a win for me, especially when the character struggles with their work and in Misguided Vows, the reader witnesses the ultimate highs and lowest of lows when her vision and dreams go up in flames. Her day to day emotions are equally turbulent; her temper and personality as fiery as her Auburn hair. Completely uninterested in her client/best friend’s arrogant brother, William — despite his impeccable looks, blue eyes, and his charming dimpled smile — his words strike her temper like a match, and their banter had me laughing out loud.
“Mr. Blue Eyes” Londoner, William, is a protective big brother and a professional stalker — a “Tracker” with Mafia ties. Also, he’s a millionaire who can flippantly make bets over high price-tag items like a private jet, and faster than that jet can soar, sparks fly between Alina and William (as she enters the whatever-mile-high “club” on said jet) but hidden secrets, dark pasts, and attachments to ghosts hold them apart on a deeper level than just physical — but only for so long.
I liked the clever and surprising twist mid book, and let me say, this story ran all over the place with twists, red herrings, and shocking reveals, making this read a pageturner. I would have liked to see more of the “organized crime” aspect, and while there are several graphic scenes that are a mixture of comedy between characters and intense drama, or dramedy, for a Mafia Romance, I expected to learn more about the crime-ring in general, and how William had an extra million to spend on a bet. I wondered just who he was in relation to the organized crime world he clearly was successful in.
I really liked the conclusion and will miss reading about Alina and William. I’m glad to see this book is part of a series all set in the same world. Possibly my above mentioned questions were detailed in prior books.
I would recommend this read to fans of spicy, enemies-to-lovers, dark romance.
Fave Quote: “He’s your brother?” I ask and try not to die from embarrassment… I remember, I just didn’t think her brother was around the same age as us and looked like he was built from God’s divine hand and gifted with the personality of a mule.”
Genre: Dark Contemporary Romance 🔞 Tropes & Themes: Dark Romance with Spice 🌶✨ F/M Organized Crime — Mafia Damaged Hero and Heroine Morally-Gray MCs Best friend’s Brother Enemies to Lovers Stalker Surprise Pregnancy Bets & Games American FMC and English MC Setting: NYC 🏙 and London 🏴
Misguided Vows by T.L. Smith and Kia Carrington Russell is the fifth book in their Lethal Vows series. An intense and sexually charged tale about the enemies to lovers relationship between Alina Harper and William Walker. This hate to love story is full of crazy banter, amazing chemistry and spicy scenes as they fight their feelings for each other and battle past demons. She has worked hard to build a new life and put her past behind her but he is stuck in the past and uses work as a distraction.
“He’s a man not willing to step away from his past, and I’m a woman only looking at my future.”
Alina Harper is an independent and feisty woman who runs a successful business. She has an encounter with Will at the opening night of a London club she designed and then finds out he is her clients brother. British William Walker is a tracker who is very talented at finding people, especially those trying to stay hidden. We first met him when he was tracking down Anya’s brother Alek. He is curious about Alina because she is the first woman in years to grab his attention so he uses his connections to get her a job in New York.
Further incidents between them leaves her frustrated and she can’t decide if she wants to hit him or take him up on his offers. She is hypnotised by his eyes and charmed by his smirk but also finds him obnoxious and insufferable. She doesn’t put up with his antics and gives as good as she gets. He loves pushing everyones buttons and annoying them by playing games, making bets and deals to entertain himself. He loves shocking her with the things he says but is shocked and confused by all the emotions she stirs up in him.
Both are competitive and love challenging each other. Intrigued by the mystery that surrounds them, they try to figure the other out and slowly become attached but deny their feelings fiercely. I loved how Will is so persistent and torments her but she is strong enough to deal with him and quite often wins!
It was great seeing everyone from the previous books and I thought Honey and Rya were so kind and supportive towards her. Alina worries it is all just a game to Will and isn’t sure she wants to entangle herself in his dangerous world. He can’t commit because he can’t let go of the past and move forward but he refuses to let anyone to have her. Is it all fun or has it suddenly becomes more serious especially when events make them both face the past. There are interesting twists and turns throughout, although I worked out most of them, there were a few surprises. Hopefully this isn’t the last of these characters.
Kindle Unlimited: Yes Stand-alone: Yes** Author: T.L. Smith and Kia Carrington Russell Rating: 5/5 ⭐️ Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶 POV: First Person Dual Perspective Main Couple: Will and Alina Trope(s): Enemies To Lovers, Billionaire, Second Chance, Found Family
T.L and Kia are back at it with their Lethal Vows Series. If you have kept up with the series you have met Will before, if not, no worries. Will and Alina have those incredible hate you, but want to fuck you vibes. Their banter is on point. Adding to the tension surrounding them. This book has low key angst, dark suspenseful mafia content, the antihero, the strong, independent woman, truth bombs, and irresistable smexy coating the pages.
‘I shouldn’t want this depravity, but something in me has snapped. This is everything I’ve ever wanted. I wrap my hand around his throat as I arch into his fingers that are stuffing me. You better be able to fuck me like that again in five minutes, or I’ll never see you again.’
Alina Harriet has been living in London for the last year building her business and brand designing layouts for clubs giving them new life. Using the power of social media and word of mouth.
Will Walker tracker extraordinaire. If you need someone found, he is your man. If you need a good time, he is your man. If you want to have a deep conversation, look elsewhere.
Alina has just finished working with Will’s sister Maria when she receives a job request in New York City. She soon learns that it was Will who recommended her to his friends.
Alina soon finds herself surrounded by wealthy and powerful people as she takes on working with Dawson and Honey Taylor. They bring her into their circle where she is continually around Will.
Their attraction has been there from the start. Neither one of them does long term. So, why not use her time in New York to enjoy one another?
Both Will and Alina have truths they keep from those around them. Both have complicated pasts that have shaped them into the people they are today. They are two people trying to outrun the past.
After spending time with Honey and Rya she realizes she is more than ready to settle into life, find her someone to move forward with. But, Will is held prisoner by his former life and loss.
And, although he has shared some of his truths with Alina, he has left out one important detail.
Misguided Vows by T.L. Smith and Kia Carrington-Russell is an engaging and entertaining addition to the Lethal Vows series that expertly combines sharp wit, sizzling chemistry, and emotional depth. The story follows Alina and Will, whose relationship begins with a whirlwind of banter and tension, leading them into a world of unexpected twists and heartfelt moments.
From the very beginning, I was captivated by the dynamic between Alina and Will. Their banter is not only witty but also filled with a playful intensity that keeps readers hooked. Alina's sharp tongue and quick comebacks add a refreshing layer to her character, making her both relatable and endearing. Will, on the other hand, is the perfect counterpart—charming, confident, and just as quick with his retorts. Their chemistry is palpable, creating a delightful push-and-pull that drives the narrative forward.
The writing in Misguided Vows shines with its blend of humor and emotion. The authors skillfully balance lighthearted moments with more serious themes, allowing for character growth and deeper connections. The storyline is well-paced, filled with unexpected turns that keep the reader engaged from start to finish. The tension between Alina and Will escalates beautifully, leading to steamy scenes that are both passionate and well-crafted.
However, while I thoroughly enjoyed the book, some plot elements felt somewhat predictable for seasoned romance readers. There were moments where I wished for more depth in certain conflicts to enhance the emotional stakes further. Additionally, some secondary characters could have been developed further to enrich the overall narrative.
Overall, Misguided Vows is a delightful read that combines humor, romance, and emotional resonance in a captivating way. With its well-drawn characters and engaging storyline, I would rate it 4 out of 5 stars. This book is perfect for fans of contemporary romance who appreciate sharp dialogue and sizzling chemistry. T.L. Smith and Kia Carrington-Russell have crafted a compelling tale that leaves readers eager for more from this series!
OH. MY. GOD. If ever there was a book I wanted to get my teeth into it was MISGUIDED VOWS, especially after reading that dedication!!! T.L. Smith and Kia Carrington-Russell have done it again, had me obsessing over their incredibly delicious alpha and his dirty mouth, sexy ways, and domineering attitude. MISGUIDED VOWS was such a fun read, an enemies to lovers, found family, stalker, slow burn romance which held me completely engrossed from beginning to end.
Alina Harper and Will Walker's sparks flew from the moment they met. They were feisty, explosive, and oh so sexy. The banter between them flew hard, hot, and fast, and I was all for it. I fell hard for Will, how could I not? This man was so damn persistent, he made me laugh every time he showed up unexpectedly, and the things that came out of his dirty mouth... WOW!! I had to agree with Alina on one thing though, Will's constant use of the term "milady" did bug me too. Alina, well she was such a strong, independent woman who was no pushover, she knew what she did and didn't want and wasn't afraid to voice it. Will and Alina were different from the other couples in this series, they were more lighthearted and playful, but that doesn't mean they didn't have their own dramas to deal with.
I cannot praise T.L. and Kia enough, their collaboration has been PHENOMENAL. I hope they never stop writing together. It was terrific seeing the characters from the previous books again, so good to see nothing ever changes with them, they have all become one huge family, happily welcoming Alina into their fold. MISGUIDED VOWS was brilliant, a totally sinful man and a strong-willed woman... What more could you want?
"Please tell me you'll reward me if I'll be a good boy""
Oh god I need one man like William.. I'm so in love ❤️ 😍
Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶
What's on the Menu
💌 Enemies to lovers 💌 Banter and Banter 💌 Billionaire Romance 💌 Second Chance Romance 💌 Touch her and ☠️ 💌 Fiery FMC 💌 Stalker 💌 Found Family
Alina and Will.. perfect couple..
I laughed so much when it starts... the banter Alina had and the way Will replied
"Most women would say thank you. But who am I to teach etiquette to a stranger?"
This was his reply and the way Alina's temper risen up.. that was hilarious 😂 😂😂
I love to read Enemies to lovers and the major part is banter and I loved how author did it so well and beautifully.
I love T.L. Smith's work alot. When he reads to Me was my recent read and oh boy I'm fan of it
And here we are with Misguided Vows, another masterpiece.
I really loved the FMC; she is no pushover, knows her worth, and is vocal about it.
The story is so beautiful. Will, he is stuck with past, he wants to move ahead but he feels like he was cheating on someone. (You need to read book to know his past).
Alina has her own demons. There is a reason she don't like her photos getting clicked despite being a star designer. What are her demons? Who is sending her messages?
Go and read the book please.. 🤭
I cried at the tombstone scene, the value that scene carries.❤️
Alina and Will were meant to be, both are fire and complement each other so beautifully. And the banter.. They are on each other's throats both way iykyk 😏😏
But at the end, you'll love the book so well. The characters, the realisation, the storyline and the overall chemistry between them was top notch.
Side characters were beautifully written as well. So impressively embedded and not at all forced. I loved the book so well.
Well this book starts out with Alina, who is an interior designer, attending one of her clients and friends club openings Maria, but before entering the club she has a slight altercation with Mr. Blue eyes who she shortly finds out is Maria’s brother Will. Now Will is most certain intrigued by Alina from the moment he met her but Alina is clever not to fall for his playboy charms. Oh boy does she make the man work for it, and as she should💅
Shortly after Alina travels to New York for a job. She was in fact recommended for this job by Mr. Blue eyes aka Will himself. This job is in fact for Honey and Dawson who we meet in Virtuous Vows. One thing I will say about this book is that I absolutely adored the cameos of characters from previous books🥰 Honestly the friendship between Alina, Honey and Rya I just loved, and how they all were absolutely terrified of Anya I was cackling😂
I have never laughed so much while reading a book. Alina and Will’s banter is absolutely top tier, I couldn’t stop giggling over the smart remarks and Alina tying up Will and telling her to come find her was just the icing on the cake👏🏼 In addition to their banter, Alina and Will’s chemistry is absolutely off the charts, and as I mentioned earlier she doesn’t give into Will that easily even though he was quite persistent.
Now this book is not plain sailing as Alina has a past that seems to be catching up with her and this past is intwining itself with Alina’s present👀
Overall I enjoyed this book quite a lot. The overall plot of the story was intriguing and kept me turning those pages to find out what happened next and we got quite a few delicious moments between our MCs👏🏼
Thank you so much to the authors who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
Misguided Vows by T.L. Smith and Kia Carrington-Russell is a passionate, gripping romance that delves into the complications of love, secrets, and desire. The story begins with a simple job that brings the two protagonists together, but what starts as a casual connection quickly escalates into something far more intense. Their chemistry is undeniable, and after a bet between them turns into something real, the line between fling and deep emotional entanglement begins to blur. What was meant to be a brief, no-strings-attached affair soon spirals out of control, as both characters find themselves struggling with the growing fire between them. As their pasts begin to unravel, threatening to expose long-buried secrets, they are forced to confront the truth about their feelings. The tension, both emotional and physical, keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to see how their tumultuous relationship will unfold. The writing in Misguided Vows captures the intensity and complexity of a love that neither character is prepared for. As the protagonists try to deny their growing attachment to each other, the story moves through a series of twists and turns that challenge their resolve. Their journey is one of self-discovery, where each hidden truth and each intense moment of passion only draws them closer. The tension between them builds steadily, and as they struggle to keep their feelings in check, their connection becomes undeniable. The authors do an excellent job of portraying the emotional turmoil of their relationship, weaving in moments of vulnerability amidst the fiery attraction. Misguided Vows is a captivating tale about the dangers of denying love and the consequences of playing with fire when it comes to the heart.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️ Themes: enemies to lovers, second chance, love after loss, fiery MFM, billionaire, mafia, stalker, found family, banter
* Thank you TL Smith and Kia Carrington-Russel for the Arc All thoughts are my own
“William Walker inexcusably has an air of assholery around him.”
Alina has a secret, one that can destroy everything she’s worked for. Hard work pays off when she has the chance to grab a major new client. Only problem is, she keeps running into the extremely inappropriate and handsome Englishman William. When she finally agrees to one night, something sparks between them and all bets are off. Does Alina’s secret ruin everything for them, or is Williams worse?!
First, this is another amazing book written by two amazing authors. Alina is a spirit fire FMC who knows what she wants and is willing to do whatever she needs to in order to achieve it. She’s quick witted and does not hold back. Something that challenges and intrigues William. William is the funny, wants everyone to laugh friend of the group of characters we know. He is witty and will say anything for shock value, and usually mean what he says. He’s extremely loyal and has a heart of gold. I love seeing characters from the other books in the series and how their stories are progressing. The spice in the book helps to support the plot and the relationship between the main characters. The plot is amazing and will keep you in grossed the entire time. The “Vows” series is one of my absolute favorite series. I have loved every single one of the books! I cannot wait to see when comes next from these two authors!
👔"How did you get my number?... I would have gladly given it to you if you had asked... Is it so you can send me naughty messages at night?" 🎀"You are so full of yourself." 👔"You, too, could be full of me." He winks, and my eyes go wide. He did not just say that. I don't know why I'm shocked every time he says something so promiscuous. 🎀"Does this seriously work on other women?" 👔"You've asked me that before, love. I don't try this hard on other women."
4.5/5 ⭐ 2.5/5 🌶️
Will is a hitman—someone who’s built a career out of finding people for others, but it doesn’t always lead him to the right kind of crowd. Alina is a fierce and independent woman who’s built an amazing career as an interior designer. So when these two cross paths? Their connection is nothing short of EXPLOSIVE. Will becomes instantly captivated by her and, yes, he does start stalking her to keep tabs on her 👀
Let me tell you—the banter in this book is TOP TIER!!! 🤣 They fight, they hook up, they fight some more—and it’s all such a wild, fun, and hilarious ride, with tender moments sprinkled in to tug at your heart. I haven’t read the rest of the series yet, but I didn’t feel like I missed out. If anything, this book has me dying to dive into the entire series because the side characters are SO GOOD!!!!
If you’re craving a mafia style romance with stalker vibes, sizzling tension, and unforgettable chemistry, you need to pick this one up!
You will enjoy this if you are into: + stalker + enemies to lovers + THE BEST BANTER + he's got an English accent!! + "fuck me, you're better than I could've ever imagined" + LOL funny