His Obsession

by Delta James

Rule 1: Never witness a mob hit
Rule 2: Never fall for the don
Rule 3: Rules are made to be broken

I shouldn’t have been there.
Shouldn’t have seen the man die.
Shouldn’t have felt his blood on my skin.

But now, I belong to Callum Kavanagh, an Irish mob boss.
Dangerous, ruthless, and entirely too intoxicating for my own good.
His whispered threats wrap around me like silk.
His touch ignites something I can’t explain.

He says it’s for my safety. I know it’s about control.

My life was safe before I crossed him.
Predictable.
Now, it’s a web of secrets, blood, and power, with Callum at the center.

He’s not just my captor. He’s my obsession. And I might just be his.

But obsessions like ours? They always end in flames.

Genres: Paranormal, Mafia Romance

175 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 26, 2024

About the author

As a USA Today bestselling romance author, Delta James aims to captivate readers with stories about complex heroines and the dominant alpha males who adore them. For Delta, romance is more than just a love story; it’s a journey with challenges and thrills along the way.

After creating a second chapter for herself that was dramatically different than the first, Delta now resides in Florida where she relaxes on warm summer evenings with her loveable pack of basset hounds as they watch the birds, squirrels, and lizards. When not crafting fast-paced tales, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and white-water rafting.

Her readers mean the world to her, and Delta tries to interact personally with as many messages as she can. If you’d like to chat or discuss books, you can find Delta on Instagram, Facebook, and in her private reader group https://www.facebook.com/groups/34898....

Reviews

[Lauren Lara · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC Read! Right off the bat, into the conflicts & the manipulating! And everyone loves a dark jerky mmc that knows exactly what and who he wants from the jump! However, I think this mmc missed the mark by a lot. And the FMC was never likable, never really proved to be his match which looses the magic of fated mates. Super short with a very dry plot.

[Laura Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

HIS OBSESSION BY DELTA JAMES.
This book is a paranormal mafia romantic suspense.
I like the cover for this book I thought it stood out.
I thought the premise of the story was interesting and intriguing but I really struggled with this book if I'm honest.
I received a free copy and i am leaving this review voluntarily

[Lottie Hildenbrand · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It’s the first in a new series, paranormal mafia romantic suspense. You have fated mates, lots of action and suspense with an obsessive romance thrown in. Although it’s a mafia story, I didn’t think there was excessive or graphic violence; I thought the violence aspect of the story was pretty mild. I enjoyed the banter between Callum and Isolde; they partner well together. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alinda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a tough finish for me
Solely because the MFC was the dvmbest h I've read in a long time. The premise of the book was intriguing, but I just could not get past her stvpidity.
She witnesses a mvrder and has numerous bad guys trying to off her. The H saves her numerous times and all this airhead, which is how she came across, can do is argue with him about how she can take care of herself, he must let her go, blah, blah, blah.
If this was supposed to make her look like a strong, independent woman, it failed miserably.
She seriously had nothing intelligent to say, 'You don't own me, you can't keep me here, you can't tell me what to do, you're not my boss...'
I finished it but only because of Callum.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was just a bit different. Callum is the 2nd in command to Con O’Neill and Isolde unknowingly had family history with the O’Neill Syndicate. Her father left the syndicate to protect Isolde but the way things turned out Callum was the one to protect her and they were destined to be together. As usual I was drawn into this story to the exclusion of everything around me. Loved the story and can’t wait for the next one.

I received an ARC for free and I am leaving a review voluntarily

[Mandy Grepares · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me in a complete chokehold! Dark romance girlies unite! Callum is in the mafia, and Isolde is in charge of a charitable foundation. Isolde and Callum's worlds collide when she witnesses something she shouldn't. She's thrust into a world that she doesn't understand. Callum is dangerous but also the only one who can protect her. She feels fear, but also a pull towards Callum that keeps drawing her to him. Callum is protective and possessive of her. I fell in love with Callum, and I know my fellow dark romance readers will too!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mariaan Belinfante · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shifter / Mafia new series filled with suspense, betrayal, money laundering, family secrets. It will engage you from the start. Callum, panther and part of Irish mafia is a very strong, almost overbearing dominant character. Isolde became his responsibility as well as a liability after witnessing, but an alluring and intriguing one. Attraction simmers throughout, but only ignites towards the end. Fated mates and a HEA. This series is definitely staying on my list.
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens

[Patricia Kieffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Obsession by Delta James

This story is interesting and has a lot of twists and turns. I love the way Delts James connects her story. Callum Kavanagh is a black panther shifter. Rory tells Callum he is needed in Dublin because Lynch's crew is moving into Cal's business there. He meets Isolde and the sparks are there. I love this book and highly recommend it. Delta has so many great books and this is one of them. If you get a chance check this book out and all of her books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tina Thompson · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5* Not very well written, really confusing but a quick read.

It passed the time is all I can say. I had to switch my brain off though as it’s so badly written in a lot of ways. The book is set in Dublin, yet everyone talks American and it’s really annoying. This author has been writing these books for a while now why has no research been done? It’s just stupid things like; ‘buckle up in the car.’ Instead of put your seatbelt on. Panties instead of knickers. Then there’s one scene where Isolde is running through the streets and the author writes it like it’s in the 1900s. 😂 The danger that Isolde is in is partially from a council man. That’s how the author puts it. In the UK our councillors run things like the roads, buildings etc not working to bring down the Irish mafia. 😂😂😂😂

I’ve been left with a lot of unanswered questions. Callum is the ….????? No idea as it doesn’t say. He’s in the O’Neil mob and is quite high up and bosses the men around and that’s it. That’s all I know. In the next book he’s not even mentioned and neither is Isolde. It’s still based on the same things with the art gallery but in the second book Siobhan becomes Sardell it’s so confusing. Rory who is the boss isn’t mentioned in this book but is in the next. Wtaf? 😡😡😡😡

Then there’s the stupid mistakes; Callum rips Isolde’s top and bra and yet later on she’s in a lovely dress. Erm where did that come from? Also how do you rip an underwired bra off? It’s not possible!

Callum meets Isolde when the foundation she runs for her father is targeted by another Irish mob family. In a crazy plot that I still don’t understand she’s in serious danger. At first I hated Callum as he just sees Isolde as a means to an end and someone he wants. Yet she’s his fated mate and he doesn’t recognise her? Callum does a lot of pulling Isolde around, telling her she’s in grave danger, but never telling her how or why. So Isolde rebels like a little kid having a tantrum. She constantly says the same thing over and over again about how she can protect herself. When she obviously can’t.

Yeah now I’m writing this lot down it sounds really bad. 😂😂😂

[Allison Baron · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The author’s writing feels too serious for a shifter mafia romance. “The storm outside mirrored the one brewing inside him, each drop a metronome to his simmering rage.”

The main character is a shifter but it is only mentioned 2-3x the whole book. It doesn’t add to the plot.

It mentions the fmc is a member at a sx club. The mmc spanx her once and is constantly threatening her not to challenge him. But almost nothing happens. It’s like the shift thing; why even mention it? Spice - .5🌶️

[Kathy Heare Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

GENEROSITY IS A VIRTUE

The new series will be a spin-off from a previous series, Syndicate Masters. It will have mention and cameo appearances with Conchobar ‘Con’ O’Neill, also known as the Devil of Galway. What Isolde Fitzwilliams is unaware of is her father had a connection with Con before she was born. While Isolde is over the Fitzwilliam Foundation, others have a vested interest too.

The story will have Isolde heading to get a master list at a fund-raiser held at The National Gallery, where she will unwittingly come across a crime taking place. Before she can react, Callum Kavanagh silences her. She doesn’t realize the implications and dangers she is now facing.

Callum: Here’s what you’re going to do. You’re going to walk back into that glittering little gala of yours, smile for the cameras, and pretend you didn’t see a thing. Because if you don’t…
Isolde: My life depends on my silence, doesn’t it?
Callum: Exactly. You’re a smart girl, Isolde. I don’t think you’ll make this any harder than it needs to be.
Isolde: I don’t want any part of this.
Callum: You’re already a part of this. The question is, how well are you going to play your role? Remember, love, silence is your safest choice.
Isolde: Stay away from me.
Callum: Run, then.

“You need to understand something, Isolde. What you saw last night puts you in a position you’re not prepared for. You’ve stepped into a world where silence isn’t just golden—it’s survival.”

Padraig: You’re protecting her like she’s one of ours. That’s—unexpected.
Callum: She is one of ours, Padraig. She just doesn’t know it yet.
Padraig: Whatever you say, but do take a look at that report.

The story has the good, the bad, and the evil of people. Isolde will be in the wrong place at the wrong time and now she is in danger. Callum is determined to keep her safe—because like it or not, she is his fated mate. As the story unfolds, so do the issues between different people. However, learning that her family is also involved is startling for Isolde.

“You’re under my protection.”

“James Fitzwilliam, her father, had strong ties to the O’Neill Syndicate, and might have been a part of the organization at one time.”

The story is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure with a great cast of characters. Slowly, pieces will be revealed, new alliances made, and two people will find they need each other. There is a power exchange and explicit scenes. The story does not end on a cliffhanger, but more a segue for another story.

[Michelle Frater · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let’s start with the paranormal element: if you’re picking this up for shifters, don’t bother. The “paranormal” aspect is so minimal it might as well have been left out entirely. Honestly, it added nothing to the story and felt more like a footnote than a feature. Now, onto the heart of the matter—the characters. Isolde and Callum… where do I even begin? The premise had promise: Isolde witnesses something she shouldn’t, putting her life at risk. But instead of intrigue, all I could think was, “Why didn’t Callum just warn her and stay away?” It would’ve saved everyone a world of trouble. But no, he drags her deeper into this tangled mess, acting like the king of bad decisions with an extra dose of arrogance. Don’t get me wrong, I love a confident, dominant man, especially in a steamy romance. But when the MMC simply growls, and hauls the FMC around like she’s a sack of potatoes because he knows best? That’s where I check out. A little communication goes a long way, my guy. Instead, Callum plays the overprotective, secretive alpha while leaving Isolde to fumble around without a clue. But then there’s Isolde, who spends the majority of the book insisting she doesn’t need anyone to save her… as Callum repeatedly does. Her stubborn independence isn’t empowering, it’s exhausting. Girl, you’re in danger. Take the help! And don’t even get me started on her “brilliant” plan to extract information from Bradford and Lynch. Not only was it a harebrained scheme, but Callum letting her go through with it completely contradicted his overprotective nature. The sexual tension between the leads had potential, but the spice was lukewarm at best. Apart from one spanking and the big “claiming” scene (which I initially thought was a dream sequence as it was written in italics like Callum’s dream before), the chemistry fell somewhat flat. All in all, while the premise had potential, the execution didn’t deliver. The plot was riddled with frustrating decisions, the characters were a hot mess (and not in a fun way), and the romance never quite reached the level of swoon-worthy I was hoping for.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75stars-HIS OBSESSION is the first instalment in Delta James’ contemporary, adult MAFIA MASTERS erotic, paranormal, Mafia romance series. This is panther shifter / Irish Mobster Callum Kavanagh, and socialite Isolde Fitzwilliam’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Callum and Isolde) HIS OBSESSION follows in the wake of our heroine witnessing a murder at the fundraiser for the Fitzwilliam Foundation. Caught between fear and reprisal, Isolde finds herself at the mercy of businessman Callum Kavanagh, a man with more secrets than Isolde could have ever imagined. A murder, a large donation and the threat of the mob forces Isolde to reluctantly obey our story line hero when she becomes the target of some powerful men.

The world building reveals a family connection, money laundering, murder and blackmail, and the existence of the supernatural, and our heroine is about to discover all is not as it appears to be.

The relationship between Callum and Isolde begins as protection. Callum knows immediately that Isolde is his mate but Isolde struggles with Callum’s overwhelming need to protect, unable to accept the danger coming her way. Forced on the run with a man she doesn’t know, Isolde must come to terms with what is happening, and a shocking realization that her own future is about to change. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and intense.

The secondary and supporting characters include several members the O’Neill Syndicate, and organized crime. We are introduced to Callum’s ex Deidre, as well as museum curator Siobhan, and Isolde’s father James Fitzwilliam.

HIS OBSESSION is a fast paced story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, acceptance and love. The premise is intriguing and enchanting; the romance is limited but impassioned; the characters are desperate and determined.


copy supplied for review

[Laura Moylan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Callum Kavanaugh is a black panther shifter and his cohort is Rory McMahon. Conchobar O’Neill is the leader of the Syndicate. So they are a type of mafia in Ireland. Isolde Fitzwilliam is worried because the donor list disappeared just before the auction. The gala’s success hinged on the list and her father trusted her to manage this and the foundation. She happens to be taking a breather when she stumbles on a killing and Callum saves her. Then the rest of the time is his trying to explain to her that she is in mega danger and he is the only one who can protect her. She doesn’t listen to him and it’s like watching a game of whack a mole for a while there. It is hysterical in both senses of the word. Ted Walsh is the head of security that is supposed to protect the Fitzwilliam’s assets. He had been a cop first so he has some instincts but he tries to warm Isolde that she should listen to Callum. He tells her a few things that had me laughing so hard I almost fell out of bed. An old flame of Callum’s ends up marrying one of his enemies and there are some truly outrageous things that happen in the book. It is fun, funny, weirdly romantic, steamy, freaky, scary, and a bunch of other stuff.

I thought that the Syndicate is bad, and they are. However, they all live by a code, and if someone breaks it, they get broken. I can understand that. However, not everyone is like that and there are a few, I deem evil in the book. I can’t wait to read the next book.

I received an advance reading copy for free from Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Rhonda Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a ride I just experienced! Delta James has launched a new series titled "Mafia Masters". The first book, "His Obsession," follows the O'Neil Syndicate, led by Conchobar ‘Con’ O’Neill, also known as the Devil of Galway. You may remember him from "Syndicate Masters 1," titled "The Bargain."
In "His Obsession," we meet Isolde Fitzwilliams, who manages the Fitzwilliams Foundation on behalf of her father. While attending a gala for the foundation, Isolde accidentally witnesses a murder. Before she can react, Callum Kavanagh, a prominent Irish boss within the O'Neil Syndicate, grabs and silences her to protect her from sharing the same fate.
Callum is the epitome of an alpha male. He leads his men with power and confidence and is also a panther-shifter, making him a formidable presence. His nature compels him to crave control in all situations. On the other hand, Isolde is fiercely independent, intelligent, and accomplished. She does not tolerate foolishness and tends to question everything until it makes sense, a trait that Callum is unwilling to entertain. He believes that the less she knows, the better protected she will be. Can you sense the brewing tension?
To add complexity to the story, Isolde discovers that her father has previous ties to the O'Neil Syndicate. Additionally, there’s a slow-burn attraction between Isolde and Callum that leaves her questioning her feelings.
This book is excellent, and I can't wait for the next installment in the series!

[Morgana Lefaye · Rating 3 out of 5]

I generally enjoy Delta James’ shifter books, but this one was less satisfying than some others. I enjoyed Callum, the brooding, dominant panther shifter (except for the penis barbs in the climactic claiming scene - I could have done without that bit of realism. I know most cat species have them, but it sounds too painful to me.) However, Isolde was rather annoying with her ‘I can take care of myself’ attitude. When you’ve just witnessed a mob murder and been told that your life is in danger, it’s a bit of a two-year old’s tantrum, stamping her foot and saying no. A normal human being would be more concerned with survival.

The plot was also not always clear. I didn’t figure out who had carried out the hit Isolde witnessed until very near the end of the book. It didn’t really fit with Callum’s protective personality to allow Isolde to go undercover wearing a wire. And there was no explanation for why Deirdre killed Eoin. I thought she was supposed to be in love with him, but it turns out she was not - but no explanation was given.

I would have liked more focus on the shifter aspect, and less on Isolde’s rather one note approach to the situation, and a better thought out plot. I would give this book 3.5 stars if half stars were allowed.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sheila M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isolde Fitzwilliam is busy looking for a missing donor list for her family’s foundation when she accidentally stumbles upon a mob murder in progress. Hoping to slip away unnoticed, Isolde instead is caught by Callum Kavanagh, the right-hand man for Conchobar O’Neill, the most powerful underworld figure in Great Britain. Callum sweeps her away to protect her from the murderer, and in an instant, life as she knew it was over. Now her life is consumed with Callum, her work as the director of the foundation, corrupt politicians, the Irish mob, and shifters. Isolde and Callum have intense chemistry. “The heat between them was undeniable, the pull magnetic…” Callum becomes obsessed with Isolde and will do anything to protect her.

There were lots of twists in this sometimes-scary story. Overall, I thought it was an intriguing story, with good world building and character development. The plot was well-paced with lots of suspense and enough twists to have me keep turning the pages. The sexual tension between the MCs strummed throughout the story with some mildly spicy scenes. I would recommend this book to fans of steamy, mafia shifter romance stories.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[B. Koe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful paranormal MUST-READ!
I know a bit about obsession as I am totally obsessed with author Delta James’s paranormal romances! HIS OBSESSION, Ms. James’s first book in her Dark Paranormal Mafia series is no exception to that excellence! Isolde is doing her best to impress her father by throwing a perfect philanthropic gala to raise money for his favorite cause when she stumbles upon something that will change the direction of her future, that is if she gets to have a future. Yet, it is not only Isolde’s life trajectory that is changed. Within the same event, Callum, the fixer for the Irish Mafia, has his life upended as well. HIS OBSESSION is full of emotion, suspense, action and affection. But best of all, readers will gain a deep, elemental understanding of two impressive and memorable characters as they come to grasp with their building obsession. I volunteered to read an ARC copy of HIS OBSESSION, and this is my voluntary 5-STAR review. I strongly encourage anyone who likes to read romance, even if one has avoided paranormal romances in the part, HIS OBSESSION is one novel that should be included in your romance library!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a simply wonderful read, great continuation of delightful characters and their scenario
This is a continuation of the characters from the previous series and when Conchobar “Con” O’Neil makes an appearance and the Devil of Galway as he is also known. Isolde is unaware her father also had a connection with Con prior to her birth, Isolde is over the Fitzwilliam Foundation which is extremely important to those that rely on it.
Callum is at the gallery when Isolde unfortunately walks in on a robbery at the gallery and she suddenly is aware of the danger she is in. Callum explains to Isolde that her very life survival is depending on her keeping quiet about what she has seem.
This was a fast-paced exciting read with plenty of things happening and also quite a few surprises that I had not seen coming but as I read the book, they made perfect sense and I look forward to reading future books in this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.

[Louise Car · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first impression was that this story would be just another romance, and it was, but
it was so much more than I expected. The mafia theme has a shifter feel and is exciting, fast-paced, action-packed, and full of cloak-and-dagger action with many twists and turns. The book is set in Dublin and is Calum and Isolde’s story. It focuses on Calum’s efforts to keep Isolde safe after she is witness to a murder at a fundraiser for the Fitzwilliams Foundation. Isolde was intelligent, feisty, and passionate but refused to recognize the danger she was in. She was playing a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Calum, who was just as determined to keep Isolde safe. Calum was dominant, persistent, and protective to the point of obsession. Isolde didn't make his task easy with her defiance at every turn.

This book in this new series is linked to the Synducate Masters and Conclobar O’Neil.
It has multiple characters, good and evil. I loved the banter between Calum and Isolde as they tried to ignore their attraction. This was a short read with a satisfying conclusion.

[Carrie O · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid start for a new series. Quick easy read. Hits necessary basics. Shifters/humans, underworld/clean business, politics & power, hidden pasts & surprises, grey->darkish syndicate, HEA with some loose ends unresolved.

BDSM-lite novella, leaning most on the dominance of the MMC character in a shifter story. Rather balanced between story, romance, spice. Touches of background for a number of characters, which suggests later appearances in the series.

FMC is feisty and courageous, but isn't as fleshed out as she could be. Defiant, could react less. MMC is confident, arrogant, Dominant, trustworthy, capable, (and drop-dead gorgeous) but he could have taken 5 or 10 minutes, surely, to have just helped a girl out, with any of her questions.

I like the way the author lets the reader pick up on things which weren't laid out. The downside being we feel surprised and wonder how we missed something like that. Hmm.

I like Callum & Isolde... although the story felt lighter in substance, than I would have preferred.

[ltfrom bc · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I was not a fan of the MFC in this story, overall this was a very enjoyable book to read. I was rather disappointed with the MFC in this book and the character is not what I normally read from this author. Instead of a strong, confident woman, Isolde was a spoiled child pretending to be an adult. She did not listen or acknowledge her life was in danger. She just kept going on and on doing her own things as if there was not danger to her life. She just irritated me. I hope the author does not write another MFC character with this one's characteristics. I can ignore it for one book but I hope she does not write more MFC like Isolde.

The MMC was great. He character was what you can expect from this author. I applauded him for his unwavering patience with Isolde. But I guess if someone is your fated mate, you deal with is as you must. I guess not every mail shifter's fated mate can be a strong, confident woman that readers come to expect.

Having said that, the premise of the story was good. Lots of danger, mystery and intrigue.

[Shelly Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Panthers are dark, brooding, dangerous, dominate, and ruthless, just as the alphas in the mafia. This is a continuation of the O'Neill Syndicate headed by Con (The Bargain). In this book we meet Callum and Isolde. Isolde's father and Con have a history that is brought to light. The shifter aspect takes a back seat but that not unusual for her panthers.

Callum is a brooding alpha who is used to issuing commands and them being followed. Isolde doesn't follow but rather questions. They are a perfect match. This is the first in the author's new series. The author has started off strong. The characters are fleshed out and secondary characters are interesting and memorable. A few mysteries were left open. The arc made sense. There was a slow burn for both characters even though Callum knew she was his fated mate. That didn't make him go cave man. The action and flow of the arc moved seemliness from start to finish. Here's hoping she keeps this throughout the series. I received an advance review copy from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Martha Beck · Rating 3 out of 5]

All fluff, no substance. Delta James has great skill as a writer and this could have easily been a five star read. Unfortunately, I've read too many of her works that were really good not to notice a lesser work. I've also come to despise her use of the word "hitched". She uses it in every book. It was used 18 times in the first part of this book.
There is no foundation laid for the characters and their motivations. There is no rational reason for the MFC to be so belligerent towards someone that is trying to save her. She just comes across as whiny and stupid. Another annoying aspect to this story is that the men not communicating to the female character has become DJ's own trope. She uses it to further the story instead of creating a real plot. It's the same way with the sex scenes. The same wording and phrases are used over and over again. One might think there is a bit of cut and paste going on.
I borrowed this book from KU. I'm 50/50 on whether or not to recommend it. Give it a try, you may enjoy it.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I generally like Delta's books, but I found this one to be boring and the h to be totally unlikable. The H isn't much better. Callum Kavanaugh works for Conchobar O'Neill of the O'Neill Syndicate as a troubleshooter. He first comes upon Isolde Fitzwilliam right after she witnesses a murder in the halls of the museum where the Fitzwilliam Foundation is holding a gala (it is never explained who was executed or why it was done where it was). Callum takes it upon himself to make sure Isolde keeps her mouth shut and is protected from the perpetrators. Nothing of any consequence happens until about 2/3 of the way through the book where she discovers he is a leopard shifter. It gets a little more interesting after that, but I never made any kind of connection with either Callum or Isolde. Frankly, I liked Deirdre more than anyone. At least she felt real. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.

[Laure · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isolde Fitzwilliams has lived a life of privilege, so when Callum Kavanagh insists he just wants to protect her from the men responsible for the murder she witnesses she has to wonder who will protect her from him. Callum is used to calling the shots, but the woman he has realized is his mate continues to defy him.
I think this is a great book, although I have to admit to wanting to strangle Isolde a few times. I mean how many close calls can you have before you stop being stubbornly independent and let someone better prepared keep you safe? Sheesh! I liked the female lead but most of the time she didn’t come across as being very bright. On the other hand, I would let panther shifter Callum protect me any day...and night...and do deliciously naughty things to me, too. Not a lot of steam, but a hot male shifter into BDSM, some violence, and a happily ever after made this an enjoyable read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book that I received from Book Sirens.

[Debbie]

Callum and Isolde. Hes a preditor in and out of human form, a panther. Shes running the Fitzwilliam Foundation gala auction. When she goes looking for the donor list she sees something shes not suppose to see. Shes told to forget it. She didnt know him but he knew her. Even though the predicament she was in she couldnt hold back the feeling of danger, dominant, control and desire in his grasp. Silence or her life. She runs while Callum is laughing knowing hes not done with her. Theirs is a game of cat and mouse. He watches her trying to decide if shes a liability or intriguing. But there was also her defiance and and fire. He wanted her close. This is so hot. Hes a dark mafia alpha panther shifter that exudes confidence so strong that you melt. Gives you that tingally feeling. Loved it Wonderful charecters and well written as all of Delta James romance's.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had I witnessed a murder in front of me, I think I would have been much more cautious than Isolde. I did not understand why it took Isolde so long to realize that she was in danger and accept Callum's help.

I was not picking up the chemistry between Isolde and Callum. Yet the chemistry from Callum was so intense that it did not seem to matter much. As I progressed through the book, their connection seemed to grow stronger.

However, I did not care much for Isolde's character for most of the book. I also had some questions about her being used as a pawn in the deadly game being played. I knew she was to be used as leverage, but I wondered what that would look like. I enjoyed the intrigue, danger, and suspense. The story also moved along at a good pace and kept me fully engaged.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Avis · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like mafia books with the supernatural and a little BDSM, then you will love this story. A warning though, Callum does spank Isolde for discipline.

I like Callum. He is a true predator. Calculating and willing to burn down the world to keep Isolde safe. She doesn't make that easy though. She is defiant to the end. And in a way it does help her to survive. She is curious and has a lot of unanswered questions.

I loved the suspense. The slow burn steamy romance and of course the perfect HEA for them. This is a standalone story.

The world building was very good. I could imagine their world. I could feel Isolde's frustration for not getting her questions answered by Callum or her father.

A great start to what will be an excellent series
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a highly intense story, rife with danger and intrigue. Isolde stumbled upon something she shouldn't have, putting herself in danger. The resulting close proximity of Callum drove the independent and self-spoken woman absolutely mad. Callum, though, was used to getting what he wanted, and knew in the end Isolde would be included. He simply had to keep her safe in the mean time - not a simple task!! As enemies seemed to start multiplying, and Isolde grew more impatient for answers, his task grew ever more perilous. Would he be successful in keeping her safe long enough to claim his mate fully?

This was the premiere book in this series and I'm salivating for the second to be released. Can't wait to find out what's next for these Mafia bad boys! I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚