Devin "Smoke" Dillinger lives by a simple code—protect what's his at all costs. As the third oldest Dillinger and owner of a successful weapons distribution business, Smoke has a reputation that precedes him. He's a man of few attachments who prides himself on control, discipline, and keeping people at arm's length... until an unexpected visitor walks through his door.
Romi Mitchell is fighting battles on all sides. Seven months pregnant with her second child, she's desperately seeking protection from threats she can no longer handle alone. With nowhere else to turn, she steps into Smoke's world hoping for safety but unprepared for the man she finds behind the intimidating reputation.
When circumstances force them together, what begins as a reluctant alliance transforms into something neither expected. As violence threatens Romi's world, Smoke discovers a protective instinct that surprises even himself. Through bullets, betrayal, and heartbreak, they forge an unbreakable bond that defies their separate worlds. But in a city where power and corruption run deep, their newfound love may come at the ultimate price.
Kimberly Brown is a South Carolina born and raised author of contemporary/urban romance. She strives to create stories that readers can visualize in their heads as the pages turn. Writing has been a part of her journey since a young age but really became a focal point during her high school years. With the support of her classmates, she began sharing her love of words with others. In 2019 she took her first step towards becoming a serious writer with self-publishing. August of 2021, she made her BLP debut with “Pretty Caged Bird” and is continuing to grow her catalog. With a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a pending masters in Mental Health Counseling, Kimberly loves to incorporate mental health into her writings as she feels it is not talked about or address enough within the African American community.
Romi’s ex is givin’ her the blues and disturbin’ her peace disrespectfully. Patrick is determined to run his drug operation through her shop with or without her consent and if he has to get a little handsy to make her comply then, so be it. His connections in the police department make it impossible to get a restraining order or even file a police report So, with no other options, Romi goes shopping for a gun.
Smoke has watched Deuce and Maceo living their best lives in domesticated bliss and he’s determined not to get caught up. Spendin’ time with his people, helping those who require his family’s services, and gettin’ some sloppy toppy from his current FWB is the only thing on Smoke’s agenda. That is until a soft spoken petite little honey walks into his gun shop.
When you look up gentle giant on Google, there should be a picture of Devin “Smoke” Dillinger because he was the epitome of what a gentle giant should be. He’s a natural protector, a problem solver, a provider, and willing to do any and everything for Romi and her girls. Smoke’s strength and loyalty quickly moved him into the number one spot as my favorite Dillinger.
I liked the idea and the execution of the theme was super cool. I enjoyed Smoke's story much better than the first one. I didn't read Maceo's book (two) But, anyway, the family dynamics made the story enjoyable. The brothers and sisters added a comical side to the story. Smoke accepting a pregnant woman and her child into his life was a top-tier move. He was gangsta about baby girl. And then the new baby made him putty for his new family. Readers, that man showed us a man of any stature can still be very sweet. 4.75 stars...
Smoke was such an incredible read from start to finish! Kimberly Brown delivers yet another gripping installment in The Dillinger Chronicles, and this time, Devin "Smoke" Dillinger takes center stage—and completely steals the show.
Devin is the epitome of a gentle giant. With his quiet strength, unwavering loyalty, and deep sense of protection, he quickly became my new favorite Dillinger. Even though he's known for his stoicism and keeping people at arm’s length, the moment Romi steps into his life, his guard begins to fall—and it's beautiful to witness. The way he jumps into action to protect her, despite barely knowing her, speaks volumes about the kind of man he is. Sweet, loving, and fiercely protective—Smoke is everything.
Romi is such a lovable character in her own right. Her innocence and vulnerability made me root for her the entire time. My heart broke for everything she went through—especially with Laurel and the Lastrange family. Honestly, they got what they deserved. And Laurel? If you ask me, she got off too easy.
The chemistry and dynamic between Devin and Romi is perfect. Their connection unfolds so naturally, turning a reluctant alliance into something intimate and deeply moving. The character development throughout the story was rich and heartfelt—I truly loved watching both of them grow.
The book also had a surprising dose of humor! The Dillinger family always brings charm, but the addition of Roux and Renay? Absolute gold. Their energy added an extra layer of depth and levity that I didn’t know I needed, but I’m so glad we got.
Overall, Smoke is a phenomenal blend of action, heart, and heat. Kimberly Brown absolutely nailed it with this one, and I already can’t wait to revisit these characters. If you love strong heroines, alpha men with soft hearts, and found-family vibes with some grit—this book is for you.
Whew, Ms. Kimberly Brown … this man right here! He got me wanting to read your entire catalog.
This Dillinger family is hilarious, and honey, they do NOT play about each other. Devin “Smoke” Dillinger is the third oldest of Stanley Dillinger’s sons, and the second oldest of Ms. Allison/Alex’s kids. This blended family dynamic! I love it—but I’m not gonna lie, I need a family tree to keep up. (Deja is dating Killow—Sharina’s baby brother—and married to Maceo. Whew, it’s a lot, but it works!) And Renay and Sharina together? Comedy every time 😂😂
Then there’s Romi Mitchell, a single, expecting mom just trying to protect herself from her wannabe-gangsta baby daddy. And when I tell you this story got GOOD… I love a good stepdaddy who steps ALL the way up.
What I adored most was the intimacy and friendship they built before getting physical. The attraction and heat were there, but they didn’t cross that line until about 75% in—which made it all the more intentional. Every problem Romi had, Smoke handled. And when he said:
“Nothing I’ve done for you was for any other reason than you deserved it. I’m a natural protector, and you’re worth protecting. And for the record, you gave me enough, woman. I have you. I have Korri, and I have Juri. I have everything I need.”
😮💨🥺👏🏾 Whew. That right there sealed it for me.
And those little moments✨Smoke’s skin-to-skin with Juri. ✨The bond he built with Korri (especially with her meeting the horses). ✨Judi’s nursery design and the baby shower. ✨Rome’s new building. 👏🏾🥰
If you love a meet-cute that grows into a heartfelt, stepdaddy romance, put this on your list immediately. Smoke was everything, and I could talk about it all day!
I will agree that smoke was funny but idk if I think he’s my favorite. His story wasn’t really all that different or more interesting. Still a few parts of just random boringness and broken women. Idk It was okay. I did love how Smoke didn’t play and he stepped up about the kids quickly.
Ok Ms. Kimberly Brown, first you gave us Deuce then Maceo now Smoke. I should have known that giant was going to be sweet and deadly! This man was something else from the moment he laid eyes on Romi, had him acting all brand new. A protector, A problem solver, A provider, and willing to do any and everything for this woman who has him out of character in the best of ways. Patrick, his sorry pappy, and his no good sister got exactly what they deserved. They put poor Romi through it. I loved how all his family came to include Romi immediately... those Dillingers are definition of hold you down. It was step daddy season for sure with Korry, but couldn't nobody tell Devin that Juri wasn't his honey. I enjoyed this book so much I didn't want it to end. While there was drama, this was a little different from the previous books and I enjoyed the pacing. It was giving, appreciating every moment. Happy Reading Y'all!💋
Another good addition to the series dare I say this one was the best. Now was Romi a lil slow FOR SUREEEEE, but in the end everything really worked out. I do wish she had sense after the first time Patty boy pulled up and was roughing her up. Like you in a salon full of chemicals I KNOW YOU CAN BLIND HIM WITH ACETONE lmaoo like you got chemical peels IN THE SHOP BURN HIM SOMETHING, cut him with the shears.
Smoke was the one not the two and I’m really happy that peach ain’t cause no drama, was he dragging out his beef yes but in the end all the villains got what they deserved. There was a few errors in the book but again none bad enough that they ruined the story. I’m just happy like Stanley said nobody got kidnapped forreal lmao.
I’m super excited to see who gets next though I think it’s gonna be Steel but I wanna read about the girls (MAINLY JAEDA I don’t care for MIA much)
Big Papa! Smoke was bout it! Step daddy of the year! Not instalove but they were very attracted to each other as soon as they met. I like Romi but I wish she would’ve communicated with Smoke more instead of other people doing it on her behalf. Like please let this man take care of things. Although I do love an epilogue baby, I wish there wasn’t one in this book. I figured they’d have kids but three baby daddies is crazy. Or at least gotten married first.
I still don’t get why Deja refers to her brothers siblings as her aunts and uncles. There were a mixup and misspelling of names.
3.5/5 I liked this one much better than Duece’s book! There is something about a Mr. Make it happen! 🥰 The foundation was laid for the side characters! I’m looking forward to all the storylines honey….
I think this one is my favorite so far! Can't wait to read about Jaeda's story. We love a good step daddy trope and that's exactly what Ms. Kimberly gave us!
Kimberly Brown never disappoints! I’m pleasantly surprised because I had no idea how I’d feel about Devin a.k.a Smoke. From the other books he seemed like the typical middle sibling, didn’t know much except he’s good with guns, drives vintage cool cars, and big af lol. But boy oh boy Devin is my absolute fave! I loved the development between him and Romi, it was organic, sweet and passionate. It was the best kind of slow burn. That man don’t play about her, but I wish he moved faster protecting her 😫 In the end all them MFers got what they deserved for messy with her. I can’t wait for my girl Jaeda’s story ❤️
Devin "Smoke" Dillinger got us all singing 🎶 I need a big boy 💪🏿! While in the previous books, he was screaming, " Ima be a playa for lyfe", life had different plans with this unconventional pairing.
Smoky Bear turned to Papa Bear, and it was delicious to watch!
Romi: “Why do they call you Smoke?” Smoke: “Because I’m pressure behind a trigger. Always have been."
Looks like Kerrion could be next 💁🏾♀️...
Mia is getting a lil annoying this go around BUT also, I am invested in her and Titans storyline. Any 🥷 that can stand up to all of her brothers with no back up, has a story and my vote!
Speaking of which, is there a back story I am missing with: Romero, DaVinci, Silas, Noah, and Booker?
📚Genre: Urban Romance/ Mob Fam 🎭Trope: Second chance romance 🔥Spice Level: 3/5 ⚠️Possible Triggers: DV
I said what I said and as always: don't take my word for it. Read the book, form your own opinions, and support your authors! 🫶🏿📖👏🏾
3.5⭐️ and 2🌶️ Quick Review: -Smoke was a lowkey softie. 😍 I did want him to bring the SMOKE more. It’s not giving mafia bang bang lol. I want the action lol. -I will forever love a man who steps in to love children that are not biologically his. -My girl Romi cried A LOT. Whew! 🥴😂
This may be my fav book in the series so far....and I loved me some Deuce.
I'm an easy sell on a man stepping up and raising kids that aren't his but Smoke was truly something special. He and Romi built such a solid friendship first because anything romantic even happened. But when Smoke laid his claim....he stood ten toes behind Romi and her daughters.
We get soooo much of the Dillingers and their amazing family dynamic. Romi's sister is a great addition to the Dillinger sisterhood. Smoke and his siblings are all still crazy as hell. ughhhh Ioved it soooo much.
The only reason this isn't a 5⭐ read for me is because there was NO reason for Smoke to drag this shit with Patrick's dad out. It only puts Romi in further danger and eventually leads to Romi having a confrontation with Patrick's sister. I'm all for emotionally torturing someone but this just felt irresponsible.
Smokeeeeee & Romi , Unexpected love at its finest.
Mannnn, this book! Smoke definitely my Favorite so far , the way Smoke showed up for Romi & them girls whew! I love a good slow burn , cause when it start burning it get hot real quick!!! It’s the step daddies for me cause mannn how they be showing up and the “where’s my baby”? When I change your last name I am changing theirs too! . ” . Point , blank, period ! get into it! Loved every minute .
I wasn’t that excited about Smoke’s book only because I didn’t know him too well and what I did know was f-boy heavy. To see him mature and come into his own when he meets Romi with all the complications of her ex and her already being a mom and pregnant for the toxic ex was beautiful. Because Romi was a softer heroine, this was in general a softer, more gentle book than the others in the series so far. Yet it was another great opportunity for the ensemble cast of characters we’ve come to love to come together around one of their own. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the Dillingers and I’m pumped for Jaeda’s book which I’ve been waiting for since Book 1.
When I started the Dillinger series Deuce won me over quickly. Then I read Maceo and he surpassed Deuce. And now Smoke has bumped both of them out of the way. Smoke is that man. He is stepdaddy of the year. I absolutely love how he came in and claimed both of Romi's girls as if they were his own. The way the whole Dillinger family welcomed Romi and the girls, can I be part of the Dillinger family too? LOL
Kimberly Brown is quickly becoming one of my top authors to recommend.
I don't know what to say except Smoke was a good man! He was intrigued by Romi since the minute she walked into his gym, and he never stopped being there for her or her daughter. He protected and loved both of them, and it was lovely getting to see him find his softer side and experience romantic love.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Devin (Smoke) and Romi are a great match. She came with a ready made family. Their chemistry was instant. Through all her troubles he loved her. They are my favorite Dillinger couple. As always, there was plenty of action and erotica. This is Devin and Romi’s journey to forever love.
I love a thick man. I love a step daddy. I love a good hero. Smoke was so loving and so patient. Life was taking Romi through there but Big Papa came to save the day.
Step daddy, big daddy, big papa……THAT N*GGA! I love everything about Devin. He’s a protector, provider, & a man of his word. Paint the whole city red behind Romi! Romi was so sweet & didn’t deserve what the bum Patrick & his family was putting her through. Romi deserved to be loved & protected. A good woman, mother, & soon to be WIFE!
Renay & Romi reminded me so much of Salima & Shar. They ride for their sisters.
Senior love his grand babies! The way that the entire Dillinger family welcomed Romi & her babies w/ open arms 🥹