Barrett

East Dremest Mafia #4

by Michelle Dare

What did it say about me that I lusted after the local mafia boss’s guard? What if I added I was a detective for the city’s police department?

I was in a world of trouble. Not only was the chief on me about an unsolved case, but Reghan Sutton had become even more present in my life.

Wanting him wasn’t the issue. The threat of losing my job was. I had to stay employed so I could pay my bills. Touching the money I made on the side was out of the question.

I couldn’t date Reghan. I definitely couldn’t get into bed with him. Once would never be enough. I certainly couldn’t fall in love with him.

And yet…

I did all of those things and didn’t regret it. But I had to be careful to keep my relationship with him behind closed doors.

My life had never been easy. Why should it start now?

One thing was for certain. Letting go of Reghan wasn’t an option.

Barrett is an MM steamy contemporary romance and book four in the East Dremest Mafia series. It features a smart-ass detective who doesn’t let anyone get too close and a guard who isn’t sure if he wants to strangle the man in front of him or kiss the hell out of him. This is a forbidden romance between a touch-starved man and the only person he’s ever fully let his guard down in front of.

Please look inside for the content warnings.

Genres: Enemies To Lovers, M M Romance, Dark Romance, Romance, Gay, Found Family, LGBT

308 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 30, 2025

About the author

Michelle Dare is a USA Today Bestselling Author. Her stories range from sweet to sinful and from paranormal to contemporary. There aren’t enough hours in the day for her to write all the story ideas in her head. When not writing or reading, she’s a wife and mom living in eastern Pennsylvania. One day she hopes to be writing from a beach where she will never have to see snow or be cold again.

https://www.michelledare.com/links

Reviews

[NitaBee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mafia Guard / Police Detective✅
Slow burn ✅
Angst ✅
Mystery ✅


This is part of the Dremest world, which seems to be mainly MMM, but not this book.

Our main men are :-

Barrett North – East Dremest PD detective

Reghan Sutton – Guard for Mafia Boss Jordan Altair Sr., and Raiden’s twin brother

Barrett is an awesome big brother to Marshall. Their parents were neglectful and well now dead from natural causes. Barrett also works for the Mafia. For Jordan. He feels a pull towards Reghan.

There’s a big mystery to be solved of who’s kidnapping young guys.

Lots of characters and inbuilt world . It’s a bit confusing to me as reading this author for the first time.

Reghan has also been longing for Barrett in silence.

‘Standing before me was the one man I would do anything for, yet he didn’t want a damn thing from me. He didn’t see me like I did him. He also didn’t know the first thing about my feelings.’

Ok wow these two seriously misunderstand each other . 🤦🏻‍♀️

Reghan has a nickname for Barrett - it’s Bear 🐻

“I’m not sure why you think so little of me, but I’m worth more than this. I deserve more.” His mouth dropped open. “You think I don’t think you’re worthy of me? Have you lost your mind? Jesus, you don’t know shit.” This time, I let him walk around me. When he did, he whispered, “It’s the other way around.”

Omg - could there finally be some communication?

Ughh - nope.

They are constantly at each other’s throats. I’m struggling cos I want some romance. I think this is supposed to be sexual tension but it just feels like it’s been too long now.

Barrett is opening up about his brother. They are talking - progress and then …

Reghan’s hand tightened on the wheel. “I’m not asking to introduce you as my boyfriend, Bear. Jesus. I’m just making conversation. My parents love everyone.”

Their conversations are exhausting.

Barrett is adamant they have no future together. Reghan says they could be discreet but Barrett can’t see how that would work.

Good god the angst. The slow burn. It’s killing me.

‘There wasn't an easy way for us to work this out. He was a detective, and I worked for a mafia boss.’

I swear to god if there is some easy way they get together, I’m done.

Reghan talks to his big bad dangerous Mafia boss, Jordan. Reghan wants to keep his job and have a relationship with Barrett. Jordan is like “I won’t fire you, but there will be ground rules you have to follow, or it’s your ass. Do you understand?”

Wow look at that. Communication = EASY WAY TO RELATIONSHIP


Barrett’s brother meets Reghan.

“My brother's eyes bounced back and forth between us as his smile grew. “So, you’re the man my brother’s been brooding over for what feels like an eternity.”

It really does feel like that Marshall.

Also I think Marshall is my favourite character .


Anyway Reghan and Barrett finally fall into bed together.

Reghan knows what he wants and nothing is going to stop him now.

‘You’re mine, and you’re going to have dinner with my family.”

My precious baby Marshall goes missing but escapes- yay!

Reghan and Barrett are in love.

Barrett decides once this case is solved and the man behind it dead, he will move on with his life with Reghan.

“I love you so fucking much.” “I love you too. Just don’t go breaking up with me because I’d really hate for Jordan to have to find me another place to live in here. Plus, having to see my ex-boyfriend day in and out…”

Love that adorable massive group hug in the epilogue 😂

[ReadMMRomanceWithMe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book from Michelle.

This time we get to see Barrett find his HEA. We’ve known Reghan as Jordan’s bodyguard, his right hand man and then we’ve known Barrett as the police detective and his performances on both sides of the law.

These two are adorable. I loved Barrett trying to put up walls and Reghan tearing them right now. Reghan knew exactly what he wanted and that something was Barrett.

This time around these two are trying to find a kidnapper. Trying to solve the case while also falling in love was great. I loved also getting to see all the characters that I’m hoping get a story down the road.

Make sure to check Barrett out now!

[Benjamin Nicholas · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️🚔✨️ARC REVIEW!!!✨️🚔✨️

BARRETT by Michelle Dare
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel in exchange for an honest review. It is Book Four of the EAST DREMEST MAFIA series. It will be available April 30th on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0DPXV...

This is a 286-page violent murderous Rivals-to-Lovers, Forbidden MM romance. (Trigger Warnings). It is a Medium Paced story that’s kind of slow-burn-ish of two men on either side of the law. One is a Cop that is a paid informant for the Mafia Boss, and the other is the Mafia Boss's Body Guard and Protector of all. I'm not going to lie, I normally take notes and highlight passages to remember to write my review, but then I got so enthralled that when I got 80% through and realized I stopped. This novel demands your attention and doesn’t let go. Serious Mafia Vibes.

--'He' was everything I wanted but shouldn’t. --

The first 3 books in the series sets up their romance in a way that you know there is something there but its unclear if they would ever get over themselves to trust in each other, and figure out the challenges of their situation to be together. Witten in alternating chapters duel POV, Barrett, a smart-ass East Dremest Police Officer, has a secret past that only Jordan knows about. He’s taking care of a relative with a chronic condition. He does everything to make sure their dreams in life are full filled. Raghan is Jordan’s secretive body guard. He's lethal, but his only 2 weaknesses are the same chronic condition as Barrett's relative and Barrett himself. He is under his skin in a way that makes him feel a wide range of emotion from rage to fondness. When they are near each other, the s3xual tension becomes thicker than an extra large d!ld0.

--The years of knowing him, of hating him while also desiring him, of wishing he’d get the fuck out of my head while also reveling in the fantasies I had of him writhing beneath me, it all brought me to this point. It was the slowest form of foreplay.--

Diverting from the format of the first 3 books, which was written as a continuous romance about the same throple, this book is about an MM couple and takes place in 1 book. The plot injects us into the mystery of young men disappearing into thin air without a trace. Barrett is put on the case but secretly gets help from the Mafia gang to find the guys and the person taking them. It was a dark plot that brought emotion, edge of your seat tension, and danger. It brings our men together as a team to solve the crimes that they are not committing. There are heartstopping moments that have you screaming OH NOOOO! And there are moments where the emotions are so deep that they seep off the pages. One of our characters really gets put through the wringer and is a character development that was unexpected. His mask and walls he puts builds to protect himself shatter. The ending was really good! I didn’t put it together, so the big reveal was insane.

--”If we weren’t standing in the fucking lobby, I’d have my hand around your throat.”
“Is that supposed to be a threat, or is this foreplay?”--

The spice was good! 3/5🌶! It was a slow burn in the bedroom. Opportunities were few and far between because of them having to sneak around. But when they came together, it was tender, sensual and meaningful. But it was also such full of need and commitment, it became volcanic! They Burned!

--"I’m not sure why you think so little of me, but I’m worth more than this. I deserve more.”--

The ensemble was good! Other than one instance where we strayed into RUINED & RELINQUISHED Series when Dash made an appearance, we stayed in East Dremest. Jordan has a heavy ensemble role but we got a little more detail on how this family is doing and their new additions. The other guards were great! Michelle does an awesome job writing a full cast of characters that come & go, keeps them interesting and memorable with minor detail that doesn’t take away from the MCs, but makes you try to piece together when and how their romance will progress in the future. There are so many possibilities.

--”…You carry a weight on your shoulders I hate seeing. I hope ‘he' helps you relax and shows you your worth.”--

I love a good forbidden romance. They are always fun and Michelle did an phenomenal job after teasing us for soooooo many books. How she brought in a medical condition that’s important to her and wrote it into this story while not letting it over power the plot & romance was skilled. I can't wait to see what comes next, as the opportunities are endless, in the East Dremest Mafia series, Body Guard Editions.

💜HAPPY READING 🫶


⚠️Content Warnings⚠️

Graphic: Confinement, Cursing, Death, Sexual content, Suicide, Torture, Violence, Blood, Trafficking, Kidnapping, Stalking, Murder, Injury/Injury detail

Moderate: Medical content

Minor: Death of parent

[Leilani Noack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally got Barrett and Reghans story the one I’ve been waiting for. I love that Barrett and Marshall got a found family with Reghan. I can’t wait for Lanes story next. I love this whole universe.

[Isla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I laughed so many times 🤣🥰
Loved it so much

3rd read in one year - love it so much

[Julie Underhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barrett by Michelle Dare is the 4th book in her East Dremest Mafia series. I highly suggest that you read the others in the series first so you can understand the situation in the city, the crime boss and what he does, and all of the characters that reoccur in this one. It is the story of two men, one who works for the police force and one who works for the mafia don who have been circling each other for a while when circumstances force them to finally give in to their feelings which leads them to recognize their love. Reghan Sutton and his twin brother, Raiden, are the most trusted guards Jordan Altair, Sr., the mafia boss of East Dremest has. They jump at his commands, even if it means killing someone, and are very protective of Jordan and his family. Barrett North works as a detective for the East Dremest Police Dept., a job he isn’t crazy about as the chief is always on his case and seems crooked at times. All he wants to do is help people and take care of his brother, Marshall, which requires money because Marshall has migraines and his insurance won’t cover everything he needs. Because of this he sometimes does jobs for Jordan which aren’t exactly legal, but he isn’t caught and it is a way to earn extra money. This is where he meets Reghan and he really enjoys riling him up whenever he sees him. It’s all an act to get a reaction from him and Reghan gives it right back. They both fell an attraction that Barrett can’t act on because it could cause him to lose his job by being involved with a crime boss, and Reghan doesn’t really like him because he doesn’t know the real Barrett behind the façade and walls that he puts up. This starts to change when he sees him in a coffee shop looking dejected because of something he just witnessed and tries to comfort him, but Barrett pushes him away and Reghan knows he is hiding behind a mask. Then it is discovered that men are going missing in East Dremest and no one can discover where they are or who took them. This causes Jordan to go ballistic and he has his people out looking for who is doing this as well as Barrett and his fellow detectives, spurred on by the chief. Barrett and Reghan are working together out of the public’s eye so Barrett doesn’t get in trouble with his job and during this time they learn more about each other and Barrett’s walls slowly start coming down. They both like what they see and this leads to a kiss and to some very hot love scenes. But Barrett has to make a decision – either he stays with the police department and away from Reghan or he leaves them and joins Reghan working for Jordan, which is something he is not sure he can do. This all changes when Marshall becomes one of the kidnapped men but luckily escapes and everything is directed at finding the kidnapper and the missing men. The action really picks up as it is all hands-on deck and there are several epic scenes when everything comes to a bloody head as everyone is involved in resolving the situation in the typical Jordan Altair way. It is also during this time that Barrett and Reghan declare their love for each other and Barrett makes the final decision of what his future will look like. I really enjoyed this book as I have the others in the series. This is quite a dark story but when you involve the mafia it is going to be. Barrett has a lot of decisions to make involving his job and his brother as well as trying to help the people of East Dremest. Reghan knows his duty to Jordan and never shirks on it, even though he is tempted by wanting to be with Barrett. The other guards, Jordan and his family also play an important part in the story as well as Marshall being the focus of Barrett’s life. There is also the background of both Marshall and Reghan suffering migraines that adds to it. And the way Jordan controls what happens in his city is often bloody and cruel, but that is the life he leads. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like darker stories involving a mafia guard and a police department detective who fall in love but have to find a way to be together that won’t affect what they do, as well as some suspense in finding missing people and what happens to those who have done this.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy the interconnected series by Michelle Dare and especially appreciate the character map and glossary to try to keep everyone straight. The only thing to make them better would be to read each book in order within the same time frame to get the most out of each book and the complex relationships involved.

This book is part of the East Dremest series and features Reghan, one of mafia boss Jordan Altair Sr.’s bodyguards, and Barrett North, a detective with the East Dremest PD. The two have had a hate-hate relationship for a long time, as well as a strong physical attraction to each other, which they handle by getting in each other’s faces and growling at each other. Barrett has also worked for Jordan at times in a variety of capacities, walking a tightrope between his job and his side job to keep from getting caught. He is not willing to get into a relationship with Reghan for fear of losing his PD job and the side funds from Jordan to care for his brother.

As things heat up between Reghan and Barrett, there is someone kidnapping young men off the streets of East and West Dremest and surrounding towns, thought to be the work of a human trafficker. Barrett is assigned to the case, and Jordan gets involved because he doesn’t like that kind of thing going on in his territory. When the kidnapper strikes close to home, Barrett and Jordan join forces to hunt down the kidnapper, with Reghan and his brother as Jordan’s bodyguards also involved. As the hunt continues, Reghan and Barrett get closer, knowing things may change between them based on the outcome of the case. There are some tense moments and a surprise or two before the case ends and Barrett needs to make a choice — his job or Reghan. Want to take a guess as to which one he chooses?

The characters in these books are always complex, compelling, realistic, and relatable, and by this book, the reader may feel many are like old friends. The mafia characters have a great found family, close-knit and protecting each other. Barrett is mostly a loner, with his brother his main focus until Reghan finally gets under his skin. Barrett walks a fine line between good cop/bad cop, and Jordan and his men engage in illegal activities while also doing things to better the community, so these books are more morally grey than black and white. I always get drawn into the story very quickly, and usually read them in one sitting, unable to put them down until the final page. If you want mafia characters, loving relationships between the characters, a few gory parts as well as some spicy ones, kidnappings and justice delivered, I think you would enjoy this series and this book. There are enough characters to keep the series going for a while if Michelle chooses to do so, and I look forward to the next one.

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

[Mary Forster · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited for this story to come out. I was happy to see Barrett get his story, he so needed it. The way you just fall into the story, just keeps you hooked into it so you finish it to know what happens.

Barrett is a cop and he has to keep his non-cop stuff a secret so no one finds out what he does for extra money. When his little brother comes to live with him, he will do whatever he can to make sure his brother has the best left and continues to go to school. He will take care of him. He doesn't want his brother mixed up with Jordan or to know that he does work for the mafia boss. However when it comes to Reghan, he can't help but let his emotions show. He just can't let Reghan go.

Reghan is a body card for the mafia boss and his job comes first before anything. He has been with Jordan for a long time along with his twin. He can't but help how he feels about a certain detective and he really wants to get to know him and figure out why Bear hates him so much. When he sees Barrett (Bear) in a coffee shop, he decides to go talk to him however he didn't expect to get treated the way he did.

Barrett & Reghan story is just so adorable and makes you want to yell at both of them in parts. These two have a lot to discuss and also figure out. The more time that they are able to spend together and actually get to know one another, they will be able to see that they are right for each other. These two are so vulnerable but when they get everything out in the open, they can see what others see. These two are so prefect for each other.

The emotions run high in this book but when you peel away the masks, it's even better. Found family is made, new friendship and most of all everyone comes together when needed. Heck, you even got a mafia boss going a little soft all the ones he cares about :)

I love this series and all the books so far in it. I can't wait for the next book to come out so I can read it too.

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

[Book Hoarder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barrett is book 4 of the East Dremest Mafia series. Books 1-3 covered Jordan Altair Sr and his two lovers. But Barrett is the one we have been waiting for since this series started and is the first Dremest book that is not a throuple.
Barrett North is a detective with the East Dremest PD. Jordan Sr runs East Dremest and while he is certainly Mafia and is not squeaky clean, he tries to keep his city that way, donates heavily to charities, looks after the unhomed and dotes his two lovers. Barrett does jobs for Jordan on the side but rationalizes this by the good he is doing and bad guys he is getting off the streets. And he needs the extra money to take care of his younger brother who came to live with him when their uncaring parents kicked him out. Marshall also needs meds that Barrett’s police department insurance won’t cover.
Reghan Sutton is one of a pair of twin brothers that serve as Jordan’s personal bodyguards. While he has a full company of guards, it is either Reghan or Raiden that stay with him 24/7. Reghan and Barrett hate each other and clash every time they encounter each other. Well, it’s actually the kind of hate that drives them closer and closer into each other’s arms. Mostly it’s Barrett’s smart-assed mouth that keeps the heat building, but that is just a mask Barrett wears.
Reghan asked Jordan permission to date Barrett but as they grow closer everyone knows that sooner than later they will get caught out by Barrett’s Chief of Police and Barrett will have to decide about his future and how he will take care of his brother. That comes sooner than anyone planned when Marshall is kidnapped.
This is book 4 of 5 but these two do get their HEA. Prior reading is necessary, at least the first 3 East Dremest books. Michelle has two earlier Dremest world series starting with Three Ties to Bind. Well worth reading.

[Mikaela (risqué.romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barrett - Michelle Dare
4.5/5✨🌟

** SPOILER **

“𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘮 𝘐 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱 𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺? 𝘈 𝘫𝘰𝘣 𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦? 𝘈𝘯 𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦𝘴𝘵? 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘐 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘣𝘺 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶? 𝘕𝘰, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐’𝘮 𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘈 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰. 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯. 𝘉𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘣𝘺 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘑𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘯, 𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘴 𝘺𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘥. 𝘔𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘺, 𝘐 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘣𝘢𝘣𝘺.” 𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘩 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺 𝘫𝘢𝘸. “𝘐 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦.”

I’ve read one book by Michelle and I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this story but man, I was hooked from the moment I started the first chapter. I was so here for the banter between these two. I’m a sucker for touch-starved and goodness, I loved it.

Reghan and Barrett were everything. Reghan was the most superior man ever. I loved his nickname he had for Barrett and boy, was he possessive. I’m not going to have to read this whole series.

Jordan has me dying laughing because he really was a softie. The ending with the group had me giggling like a little girl because he could try to say he hated the hug, but he didn’t.

I loved the bond that Barrett had with his brother and when Marshall had to live in Jordan’s building, I felt so hard for both of them.

I had so many favorite moments from the forced dinner with his parents or even how Reghan helped Barrett with his brother’s migraine.

This was such a sweet forbidden romance and when they finally get their own happily ever after, I was swooning because I loved it. Now… will his brother get his own story too?!

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[B. B · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading the first set of East Dremest Mafia books about mafia boss Jordan and his men, I was completely intrigued by all those that work for him, among them, twin bodyguards Reghan and Raiden. I was so happy that we're getting Reghan and his somewhat complicated relationship with murky cop Barrett in this one. In the previous books, their antagonistic clashes hinted at so much, and in Barrett, it's explored.

Barrett is a detective that for "reasons" needs to supplement his income and as such helps Jordan out when things are sticky with law enforcement. He's an incredibly self sufficient guy almost to a fault and that was a smidge frustrating but not overly so. Loved his relationship with his younger brother, Mars and his love and care for him. Barrett is stretched thin because there's a big case of young men being kidnapped in East and West Dremest and he's the lead detective. As with everything in East Dremest, once Jordan and his crew find out about the kidnappings, Jordan has his people on it and of course that includes Reghan. The softening of Barrett and Reghan towards one another was really enjoyable. I especially liked that both men had brothers willing to tell them the get their heads out of their rears and get it together. Reghan was a growly sweetheart and I loved his relationship with his twin as well as his family but also Mars. Mars and Reghan both suffer a health issue and I really appreciated how it was handled. Overall I really enjoyed how this couple came together and how they complemented one another. It felt believable. Looking forward to many of the other Altair mafia members to get their HEAs like Oleander, Sheldon and of course Raiden. Definitely recommend

[Ashley Carrillo · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this is the 4th book in this series and while I didn't yet read the first three books I didn't think i was missing too much. But after reading this book I'll definitely have to read the first three in the series. This book is about Barrett, a detective, and Reghan, one of mafia boss Jordan's bodyguards. From the jump you can tell these two have a past which consists of pissing each other off and hiding their attraction and feelings from each other. While the attraction has been noticed neither man know that there are deeper feelings there for each other. Barrett doesn't trust anyone and constantly has a mask in place to keep people away and to not give any of himself away either. This mask causes him to want to ruffle feathers which happens to mostly be aimed at Reghan who responds to the person Barrett wants him to see so they end up butting heads and not looking any deeper than the surface. But when a string of kidnappings occur and the police department isn't finding any clues both Barrett and Reghan work together to find out what's going on in their city with the help of the mafia boss and all his resources. There they begin to slowly come together and the more they actually talk and spend time together the more of Barrett's walls shatter. They never thought they'd ever have a chance but now that they do they're not letting go. I loved the hardness and sweetness of their love and even though they get under each other's skin and there are things they need to work on the longer they're together the more they grow and become home for each other. A good book and I'm looking forward to reading more from this series.

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

[EvaReadsWithDog · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Barrett North was everything I wanted but shouldn’t. He worked for the enemy.”

Oh, I was so much looking forward to Barrett & Reghan’s story! I absolutely loved this book! We’ve seen both of them in the previous books of the “East Dremest Mafia” series. Barrett North, a detective for the city’s police department. Reghan Sutton, the twin brother of Raiden and both of them guards of the one and only, the uniquely unhinged and amazing mafia boss of East Dremest, Jordan Sr. (eh, don’t blame me… Jordan Sr. is everything!).
Reghan and Barrett, they’ve know each other for years and they got on each other’s nerves right from the start. Both fighting their feelings.
Their story has it all! The plot is amazing and it kept me turning the pages like there’s no tomorrow! The tension, the chemistry, the steamy moments (when they finally realize they can’t stay away from one another), the found family between the guards, Jordan Sr., Vail and Hartley. When the masks are peeled away and there’s no hiding their emotions, you get to witness two beautiful, sweet and vulnerable men. There’s a lot to take in consideration… their jobs, their families. I loved the banter, the possessiveness, the hugs (oh, the hugs) and the growling.
“Reghan…” “I know, Bear.” Our touching and kissing turned gentle. Our bodies came together like we needed each other to breathe.”

This book is a rollercoaster of emotions. Join the ride and you’ll get to see a well-deserved HEA (and a mafia boss going all soft for the ones he cares about…).
“Barrett” is book 4 in the East Dremest Mafia series. It could be read as a standalone but personally, I believe you should read it in order so you can enjoy it even more.

Thank you Michelle for trusting me to arc read Barrett’s & Reghan’s story.

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

[R · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the fourth book in the series I have already established a relationship with Reghan. He’s strong, uncompromising, totally loyal to his mafia boss Jordan,loves his twin brother, and is secretly attracted to the bothersome cop Barrett. Barrett the cop is very different than Barrett the man. The cop hates his job, he doesn’t want to be one but the steady paycheck lets him take care of his brother Mars. The man is not averse to helping the mob boss occasionally because the money is very helpful and usually involves ridding his town of undesirable elements. The man has a love/hate relationship with Reghan. Both men know they can’t have each other but that insistent attraction just won’t go away.

I really like these guys. Their give and take was funny, sad, and incredibly spicy. Jordan forcing them to work together to solve the case of the missing men was either going to be productive or disastrous. I really liked how Jordan’s men turned him into a mushy mess (still with teeth though).

I liked that Reghan finally stepped up and made Barrett his, regardless of the problems it brought. These two have become my favorite couple so far this year.

On a personal note, as a migraine sufferer myself, I appreciated the authors handling of the issues regarding migraine medication and the difficulty of obtaining (very expensive) medications from entities who only see their bottom line.

I received an arc of this book.

[Megan McGrath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barrett & Reghan
(Group Hugs are the Best)
The very first of an only MM romance I've read under Michelle Dare. I've read all of the Three Ties and Dremest Mafia series, and all of them have been MMM. It was a surprising difference, but still a fantastic read.

As long as you're familiar with some of the other East Dremest Mafia stories, you'll have seen plenty of scenes with Barrett and Reghan that explain and expand on their hilariously antagonistic relationship. They're an ultimate enemies to lovers duo, but at the same time they never really hate each other. They just hate that they have feelings for one another and mistake it as overall hate.

These two have always been an entertaining couple in the several books that they have been part of, even though we never see them be a couple until now. Barrett is thrown right into the fire of his Mafia connections in this book and has several big choices to make in his life as the story unfolds. Luckily, his shifting relationship with Reghan makes those choices and changes far more palatable to handle.

And even after his three books, we're still seeing new sides of Jordan and how he treats his Mafia family. It's kind of fun to see these shifts in his personality.

I loved reading Barrett for his and Reghan's story. They definitely deserve their happy ever after, even if it looks more unconventional than some.

(Not going to lie, the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book had me stressed for one of the side characters, but I'm glad I was very wrong.)

I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.

[Caroline Griffith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been so excited for this spinoff of sorts. Michelle Dare has created an awesome world in Dremest, and getting to know the men of the East and West has been very fun. When I first started the series, I did not think I could love the men of the East, but they are so fun, and the dynamics have been interesting as they have evolved. We have been lucky enough to see the push and pull between Barrett and Reghan over the last few stories, and this story pulled everything together.

Barrett is a detective for the East Dremest PD, and Reghan is one of the top guards for Jordan alongside his brother Raiden. They have been getting under each other's skin for the last few years, but they have been slowly realizing that the line between hate and love is withering. Both men have had the desire for the other, but their life circumstances prevent them from taking the leap toward love. However, there is an evil running rampant through East Dremest that even Jordan could never stomach, which forces the "good" and "evil" to work together. One chance moment changes everything because one man can resist the other, and they can no longer ignore how much they need one another.

We are introduced to new characters, and while this is only an MM pairing, it fits so very well in this series. We are absolutely spoiled each time Michelle gives us a new book or series, but this one is quickly becoming a favorite. I cannot wait for Lane, and I know we will not be disappointed.

[MN Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. Barrett and Reghan’s story had such a great build-up, and I loved how their connection slowly unfolded. It didn’t start the way I thought it would, but that made it even better. The way the story gradually peeled back Barrett’s layers—like a very well-armored onion—was done so thoughtfully. He’s reserved and guarded, but when he starts to let Reghan in? That shift is so satisfying to read.

Their relationship felt real and earned. There was mutual respect, support, and patience, and I appreciated that nothing was rushed. I also learned a lot through this book—Barrett’s migraines were handled with care and detail, and it was eye-opening to see how deeply they affect him day to day. The way Reghan supports him through it all was beautiful.

Barrett’s love for Marshall melted me. The way he cares for his nephew despite his own rough childhood just shows who he truly is. His family situation genuinely made me upset—he deserved better—but watching Reghan and his little circle step in was the kind of found family story I always love.

Also, the world of East Dremest just keeps getting better. I was so happy to see Jordan, Vail, and Hartley again. There’s something really special about this town and the way all the stories connect without taking focus away from the main couple.

If you're already a fan of this author, you'll love this. And if you're new to East Dremest—welcome! You’re in for something wonderful. I can’t wait for the next one.

[Anne Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG ADORABLE
I have got to say this book blew me away. Barret has always kept himself to himself all he wants to do is take care of his brother Marshall. Marshall has migraines so Barret is paying a higher insurance to make sure that he is covered. He is a detective But also does small jobs for Jordan Senior. And this is where Reghan comes into it. There is all ways been this fierce attraction between them that comes out in banter and aggression when they see each other. It’s a forbidden attraction because if he’s bosses at the police department find out he is dating a bodyguard to the mafia. It wouldn’t end well, but these two just can’t stay away from each other.
We also see a very different side of Reghan. He is a bodyguard to Jordan Altair senior. He is a twin and his brother Raiden also works for Jordan. You can only tell them apart by a scar on one of their faces but Barrett always knows which one is Reghan.
As quick as Barrett puts up the walls around his heart, Reghan takes them down. Reghan knows that he will get his man and even has a peculiar conversation with Jordan about it. We see a different side of Jordan in this book as well it just makes me smile. This is a fantastic read there and Barrett and Reghan just melted my heart.

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

[Mags · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really looking forward to reading Barrett's story, as he is one of the characters who intrigued me the most, and I did enjoy this story.

As it is rich in character growth, featuring Barrett and Reaghan as complicated individuals who often find themselves at odds with each other. However, there is a reason for their conflict—especially for Barrett—and it turns out they have a lot in common.

Additionally, the plot revolves around a mystery: men are being abducted from the streets of East Dremest, and Barrett is under pressure from his boss to find answers. To this end, he taps into his connections with the mafia boss, Jordan. However, progress is slow, but the real breakthrough comes when Barrett and Reaghan are forced to communicate and confess their feelings for each other. During this process, Reaghan learns more about the reclusive man he is falling for.

Yet, both characters realise that if they want a genuine relationship, a difficult choice must be made, and Barrett will be the one who needs to make it. This decision becomes urgent when Barrett’s own brother is targeted, and a shocking revelation reveals who is truly behind the abductions.

And with spicy moments, danger, and intriguing characters, Barrett is a delightful read that I would happily recommend to everyone.

[Ana Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know how it’s possible to love each of this books more than the previous, which I absolutely loved!

Barrett and Reaghan were so much more than I expected. I came into this book with the idea that there was gonna be a lot of pining, barely any actual contact between them and a slow burn that would take forever for them to get to a first kiss.

Instead, we got high heat, didn’t have to wait too long for them to actually get together and when they did? God, that was so freaking beautiful.

Reaghan turned out to be the sweetest cinnamon roll ever. The way he took care of Barrett and showed him how precious he was to him and how much he wanted him was just so swoony.

He wanted to Shaw Barrett he would always be there for him and never let him go. Show him what it meant to have a real family that would love him unconditionally.

I love tough, hard men who just melt for their men. Yeah, Jordan, I’m looking at you 🤣

“𝔹𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕥 ℕ𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕙, 𝕚𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠𝕟’𝕥 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕓𝕪 𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕀’𝕞 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕝𝕤 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕞𝕒𝕪𝕓𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕤.“

I loved Jordan, Hartley and Vail but Barrett and Reaghan are just a tad ahead as my favorites 🤭

I can’t get enough of this series. It’s definitely one of my top five favorite mafia reads. It’s just so different and satisfying that I’m gonna be reading it often.

[Sandra Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Barrett can be a hard ass but he does it so he doesn't get his heart broken. The mask he's put in place with Reghan is just that..a mask. He feels so much more with Reghan. But with him.being a detective and Reghan working for the mob boss, it tends to be a slippery slope. He wants nothing more but to pursue his love interest and have Reghan in his life. But he can't risk his job that helps him take care of his brother.

Reghan is a guard for the mob boss. Nothing riles him up more than the handsome detective. Barrett is the only man that gets under his skin. When he sees Barrett having a tough night, he tries to talk to him about it but Barrett refuses and puts his mask in place. However, Reghan saw a glimpse of what was beneath that mask and all he wants to do is remove it. Everyone sees how they interact but they also see that there is more to their relationship.

When men start to go missing, they must work together to see if they can find the culprit. With them getting closer and closer, they can't help but pursue their relationship to the next level. Hot cop and the even hotter mob boss's bodyguard..recipe for disaster or for love?

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

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the book I have been waiting for, ever since I read Jordan. Barrett and Reghan have gone toe to toe nearly every time they were in the same room. Barrett's main mission was to get under Reghan's skin. Whilst it was fun at the time, it left them both wanting more.
Barrett knew he needed Jordan's help, when his latest case hit closer to home, what he didn't plan was getting closer to Reghan.
I knew when these two got together it would be hot, but I didnt expect how cute they were. Reghan had so much patience with Barrett, slowly chipping away at his walls and letting Barrett be the man he wanted to be. Once Reghan had a taste of him, he never wanted to let him go.
Getting introduced to Marshall(I hope he gets a story) and knowing his health conditions, you can understand why Barrett toed the line between his job on the force and his side jobs working for Jordan and why he was having serious thoughts for his future and how much he wanted a family and someone to take care of him.
This book was fast paced, full of action as Barrett and co try and close Barrett's case without endangering his career and protect the ones close to him.
With further stories teased I am excited to read Raiden's story

[Sara Sigler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reghan is one of Jordan’s bodyguards but when him and detective Barrett got close they would get under the other’s skin. Barrett did things for Jordan like covering up things that had happened plus carrying for his brother Marshall when he left home and does beautiful paintings. One day Reghan and Barrett went to check on a lead and got to talking, Reghan learns why Barrett is the way he is and about Marshall the brother. They kissed but Barrett being a detective on the police force and a bodyguard for the mafia boss couldn’t be together. They gave into their feelings but one night Reghan came over he helped Marshall by getting a doctor for his migraines so he could get relief, Reghan has some migraines. Marshall gets taken by a man that was kidnapping young men but got away, having trouble finding who was doing it. But Noah got away when they were going to be transferred and found Barrett he finally told them who the person was. But they didn’t get Archie alive so they went looking for the chief of police whose son was doing the kidnapping, everything that happened was recorded because the chief was involved and found the men. Things worked out great for them.

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

[DebbieReadsBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This is book 4 in the East Dremest Mafia series. I have not read books 1-3. I read the other East Dremest books by Dare. I didn't feel I missed anything by not doing, except Jordan's story and how his men wrap him round their little fingers! And they do here, a bit, which makes me want to read their books!

Barrett has known Reghan for some time, Barrett is a cop and Reghan is bodyguard to the local Mafia boss. Not really a match made in heaven, but neither act on it, and cannot while Barrte is still working as a cop. That is, until Barrett's brother goes missing then Reghan is all for looking after his man. Because Barrett is his, he just has to make Barrett see that.

I liked this, a LOT. Barrett and Reghan are perfect for each other, apart from the minor detail of theor chosen profession. But Barrett isn't happy as a detective, and Reghan can see that. Not many can really SEE Barrett, but Reghan does.

There is much emotional detail here and I loved getting deep into both these men's minds. Barrett's especially, once he lets Reghan in. The man is in a good deal of emotional pai, and it takes Reghan getting in, for Barrett to let it all go.

Case in point: the last page of the epilogue!

It's darker, given the subject matter but I found it handled really well. I think the violence that is on page is needed, to get the point across.

I will try to make time for Jordan, Vail and Hartley's books. And I absolutely need to read Raiden's (Reghan's twin brother) book!

4 very good stars

*same worded review will appear elsewhere

[bookingcrazzyy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The push and pull finally comes to a close. Throughout this whole series, Barrett and Reghan have been teased and we've seen these two at each other's throats even though clearly feel something for each other. This book starts off in a similar fashion with neither man wanting to risk anything by letting the other man too close. Barrett doesn't want to risk his career and doesn't see any other option.

As the tension finally blows up between these two, you see the true love story come to fruition. Reghan is stubborn and doesn't let Barrett push him away and proves to him that their relationship isn't impossible.

As kidnappings and crimes start to hit too close to home, these men must finally cross the lines they've refused to cross in order to help the people they care about.

This story had it all. The tension, the spice, the epic love, the outside conflict. You see two men who shouldn't work and whose relationship is impossible. But you have two men who fight for their love and don’t let these obstacles stop them.

Barrett was a perfect addition to this mafia series and I can't wait for the next one.

I received an advance review copy, and this is my honest review.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was absolutely brilliant to read, it was very different to how I expected their story to go and I was surprised at how different I found Barrett to be compared to how I thought his story would go. His character was much more complex than I ever thought he would be. I really adored him and loved seeing him come around to excepting his feelings for Reghan and finally letting some happiness into his life that wasn’t about putting other people’s happiness before his own. Reghan is definitely a caretaker, he’s incredibly loyal to his loved ones and wants to best for those around him. I loved how he stepped up for Barrett and finally made him see that they could have a real chance of love and a future together.

The storyline itself is really good, it’s intense and very full on and I liked how Marshall was woven throughout it. There’s a few little glimpses into further books in this series and some matches that were all gonna love to read.

For the Jordan fans out there this story is packed full of moments with him, it’s a lot of fun to see how much he has changed and the aggravation it causes him personally on a daily basis. There’s lots of laughs with him in this story.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is truly captivating and perfectly exemplifies the magic of a slow-burn romance. Right from the first page, the writer skillfully lays the groundwork for a relationship that unfolds with a deliberate and believable rhythm. This isn't a story that rushes its characters; instead, it lets their connection simmer and deepen organically, making the eventual payoff so satisfying.

The main characters are so well-developed, complex individuals with their own distinct histories, vulnerabilities, and motivations. The author really takes the time to explore their inner lives, allowing you to understand why they do what they do and to really empathize with their journeys. This meticulous character work makes their interactions feel so authentic and their HEA feels completely earned.

Beyond the compelling romance, the plot itself is remarkably well-paced, which makes the book even more interesting. And a great bonus is getting to see other main characters from other books, like "Jordy" for example! :)

This is honestly my favorite book by this author. I can't wait for the next one!

[Precious · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another heart warmer.

Barret is a detective who has a love-hate relationship going on with one of the mafia boss's bodyguard, Reghan. The more they get under each other's skin the more they crave to know more about one another, Regan more so than Barrett who ensures to keep people at arm's length.

The two end up dancing around their attraction until they can't stop thinking about each other which causes them to do some really bold stuff that ends up making their entanglement a lot messy before it smoothens out.

I enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers dynamic between these two. With Barrett having issues trusting people and giving up control, it was wonderful to see Reghan not only earn and treat Barrett's trust so carefully but also allow Barrett to be himself, to be his own man.

The found family aspect of this book was quite wholesome and although I haven't read prior books in the series, it wasn't difficult to pick up what's going on in this world.

I had an absolute blast reading Barrett and Reghan's story and Jordan is my new favorite character beside the MCs.

//ARC Review//

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barrett by Michelle Dare Book 4 of the East Dremest Mafia ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Michelle Dare delivers a thrilling, forbidden romance in Barrett—a story packed with heat, tension, and emotional complexity. When Barrett, a sharp-tongued city detective, falls for Reghan Sutton, the brooding guard for the local mafia boss, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The chemistry is instant and intense, but their connection is dangerous—not just because of Reghan’s ties to crime, but because Barrett’s career is on the line.

The push-pull between duty and desire is electric, and the secretive romance that unfolds is both tender and explosive. Reghan is protective and gruff, while Barrett’s vulnerability simmers beneath his sarcasm. Together, they navigate a world of secrets, danger, and undeniable attraction.

This MM romance is a standout for its layered characters, gripping tension, and just the right amount of angst. Barrett proves that sometimes the most forbidden loves are the ones worth fighting for.

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

[Lulu Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD!!!!!!

Okay, that was a very exciting book. I liked both characters from the beginning, especially how they always egged each other on. Wonderful! Very suspenseful storyline, good pacing of the plot, lots of action, and of course, many funny banters and bedroom whispers. Great plot twists (I would have guessed the guy at the art exhibition, I think it was the mayor).

I was missing a bit of the confrontation with the Chief's son at the end and a court hearing where Mars would have actually testified, because I think that would have been another moment where Bear would have seen that his little brother is grown up enough to stand his ground and that he should sometimes let him take the reins in deciding his own life (but maybe that's still to come).

Oh, and speaking of nicknames for Barrett: "BEAR" – how cute is that?! Thank you to the author for this great story!.

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