Lessons in Corruption

Astoria Royals Standalones #4

by Deborah Garland

From Amazon Top 40 bestselling author Deborah Garland comes the Irish Mafia romance readers have been begging for: Cormac’s Redemption Story. This sizzling Professor/Student and Marriage of Convenience Romance is set in both the Astoria Royals and Quinlan Empire worlds.

My professor by day. My husband by night.

I’m the good girl.
The quiet medical student determined to live up to my father’s legacy.
Or at least I was until everything fell apart.

After escaping a manipulative relationship that nearly destroyed me, I’m left rebuilding my life from scratch.
And needing a place to live.
That’s how I ended up in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Where a stranger with darkness in his eyes gives me the best night of my life.
For once, I stop pretending I don’t crave danger, too.
To be bad. Just once. One night.

Until that ONE night walks into my classroom.
Dr. Cormac O’Rourke.
The school’s new pharmacology professor.

The infamous ex-pediatric surgeon with a criminal past is teaching the one class I need,
or I’ll fall even farther behind.

When he tries to force me out, I threaten him with the one thing powerful enough to make him back down:
My father.
His boss.

We call a truce. And keep our hands to ourselves.
But that falls apart spectacularly.

I just want to be bad.
He just needs a wife to put his life back in order.

The only woman he wants?
Is me.

Lessons in Corruption is the final book in the Astoria Royals Series. And takes place during The Quinlan Empire series, but it can be read and enjoyed as a complete STANDALONE.

Tropes:
🖤 Irish Mafia
🖤 Professor/Student
🖤 Age Gap
🖤 Single Father
🖤 Marriage of Convenience
🖤 Boss’s Daughter
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 F*ck It
🖤 No 3rd Act Breakup

*Follow Deborah for Updates*

Genres: Dark Romance, Mafia Romance, Forced Proximity, Contemporary, Dark

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication May 22, 2026

About the author

Deborah Garland is a top 45 Amazon Bestselling and a 4x Award-Winning author of emotional, funny, and steamy romances!

She loves pugs, Friday night Cosmos, and that feeling when she publishes a new romance novel.

She lives on the beautiful North Shore of Long Island and in the summer, she escapes to Maine with her very patient husband.

She eats cheap mac and cheese with expensive red wine, her heroes are ALWAYS over six feet tall, and they fall hard, HARD for the girl.

Visit her website --> https://www.deborahgarlandauthor.com/... to join her newsletter and browse her little love stories.

New Releases are always featured, but all books can be read as standalones. Don’t be afraid to jump in. The water’s fine 😊

Reviews

[Dahlia’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

I’ve fallen in love with Deborah’s mafia men ever since I first discovered her through Brutal Collateral, and she absolutely did not disappoint with Cormac’s story.

Lessons in Corruption completely pulled me under and refused to let go. From the very beginning, there’s this dark, magnetic tension surrounding Cormac and Scarlett that makes every interaction feel dangerous in the best possible way. I was obsessed with them immediately.

He’s intense, commanding, and impossible not to love, while Scarlett matches him with so much emotion and strength that together they completely stole the show.

What I loved most is how emotionally consuming this book feels. The chemistry is incredible, but it’s the tension, the vulnerability, and the push and pull between them that really made this unforgettable for me. I was stressed, swooning, heartbroken, and obsessed all at once.

Another mafia romance added to my favorites from Deborah Garland.

[Kelly Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Deborah’s books and I’m slowly making my way through all of them!
This one was so good! I love how hard Cormac worked to turn his life around and how the chance counter meeting Scarlett ! It was the perfect meet cute for a dark romance book !

[Flex Fler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Deborah Garland for the ARC. All opinions are my own in the following ARC Review.

Genres: Mafia Romance, Dark Romance
Tropes: One Night Stand, Single Dad, Age Gap, Professor/Student, Boss’s Daughter, Forbidden Romance, Redemption Arc, Second Chances, Pining, Marriage of Convenience, Fake Relationship, Forced Proximity, Hurt/Comfort, My Wife
MC: Scarlett (FMC), Cormac (MMC)
Setting: New York
Triggers: domestic abuse, cheating, past addiction
Epilogue: Yes

Synopsis: After a year of sobriety, Cormac has finally begun rebuilding his life while carrying guilt over the mistakes that shattered his family. When Scarlett leaves her toxic boyfriend after a fight, she unexpectedly finds safety in Cormac. One night together sparks an intense connection neither can forget. Scarlett returns to medical school only to discover Cormac is now one of her professors after accepting a teaching position arranged by his twin brother. Their chemistry becomes impossible to ignore, even as they try to keep their distance. Complicating matters further, Cormac’s new job requires him to be married by the end of the semester. As Scarlett’s ex continues harassing her, Cormac proposes a marriage of convenience that would protect both of them. Though reluctant to risk her heart, Scarlett agrees. Their relationship deepens as Cormac struggles to reveal the truth about his past, including his addiction and the complicated circumstances surrounding his young son, whom he wishes to co-parent with his twin brother and sister-in-law. While Cormac fears the truth will drive Scarlett away, she instead sees the man he’s worked hard to become rather than the mistakes he made. Through love, honesty, and forgiveness, Cormac slowly begins to let go of his guilt and finally allow himself the future he never believed he deserved.

Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book, especially because I didn’t think there was any way to redeem Cormac after his actions in his twin Darragh’s book, Ring of Truth. I honestly didn’t think he deserved forgiveness or happiness after reading that story. However, Deborah did a fantastic job showcasing the depth of Cormac’s guilt and his path to recovery as he works to become a man worthy of a second chance. You can truly feel his remorse for his past actions, and I’m glad his entire family supported him throughout his recovery journey. I’m especially happy that both his twin and his ex forgave him, because I think that was what he needed most in order to finally move forward. I also commend Scarlett for her acceptance and understanding of Cormac’s past. He needed an open-minded and compassionate partner to fully heal, and I think she provided exactly that. At the same time, Cormac was a wonderful partner for Scarlett because he never held her back from her dreams. Instead, he encouraged her, and admired and applauded her talent. I also loved how naturally Scarlett fit into Cormac’s family, especially with his ex, considering they’re going to have an unconventional dynamic moving forward. I’d love to see Cormac become a father again with Scarlett someday, so he can experience the journey the right way with someone he truly loves.

[Wendy Marie (myrisingphoenixera.reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️
3🌶️
🔥Dark Academia / Mafia Adjacent
🔥Professor/Student
🔥Boss’s Daughter
🔥Age Gap
🔥Single Father
🔥Marriage of Convenience
🔥Forced Proximity
🔥F*ck It
🔥Dual First Person POV

This takes dark academia and the professor/student forbidden relationship to another level. She’s the Dean’s daughter and he’s trying to rebuild his life with family ties to the Irish mafia. This is Cormac’s redemption arc, he has been through hell and is doing everything he can to be there for his son. His twin brother sets him up with a teaching job, but is shocked to find out he is required to get married to be hired full time. After a draining day of work she comes home early to find her boyfriend in bed with his sister-in-law. He gets physical when she says she’s leaving him and hastily packs a bag. Cormac and Scarlett have an unconventional meet-cute when his taxi hits her. Cormac offers to pay for a hotel room for as long as she needs. She decides to invite him up. WOW! The sizzling chemistry between them and how Cormac doesn’t hold back was H-O-T-T hot! That one night sparks an intense and magnetic connection neither can forget. When they see each other again it’s in the last place either expected, in his classroom. They have a push and pull that keeps ratcheting up the tension. He fights his attraction and connection to Scarlett because he doesn’t feel he’s good enough for her. Plus he can’t risk having the distraction while he gets his life together. Scarlett is strong, resilient, and has a fiery attitude. She isn’t afraid to push him and when she does, Cormac can’t resist. Cormac is intense, commanding, and possessive. When her ex threatens her, he makes the quick decision that will solve both their problems, marriage. He’ll fulfill the requirement for his job and in return he’ll pay for her school and a place to stay. The high emotions, sizzling chemistry, and family dynamics are so well balanced and together create an unputdownable story.

Plot: 5
Engaging: 5
Character: 5

Thank you Deborah Garland for the gifted advanced copy. I love being on your team!

📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦‍🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads🐦‍🔥

A Few Favorite Quotes:
“Every inch of you is made for me. How did I get so lucky to find you?”
“You didn’t find me, you ran me over.”
“That’s an exaggeration. And let’s be thankful that you’re unscathed. I can’t promise you’ll be intact and sane in a few minutes.”

“She’s going to ruin me. And the worst part is that the masochist in me will enjoy the pain.”

“Use me like I’m a real wife,” I say on a ragged inhale. “I’m going to use you until you can’t walk.”

“I’m your husband, but I’m going to f_ € k you like you’re my dirty wh0r£. Hold on.”

[Cigi cini · Rating 5 out of 5]

🖤 Dark Academia
🖤 Mafia Adjacent
🖤 Professor Student
🖤 Age Gap
🖤 Single Father
🖤 Marriage of Convenience
🖤 Boss’s Daughter
🖤 Dad’s Best Friend Vibes
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Forbidden Romance
🖤 High Emotional Tension
🖤 No Third Act Breakup


Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5


Lessons in Corruption by Deborah Garland delivers a tense, emotionally charged story that leans fully into its forbidden dynamic while still grounding the characters in real vulnerability. As the fourth book in the Astoria Royals series, it brings a darker, more complicated edge, and Cormac’s journey is at the heart of it all.


Cormac is not your typical alpha hero. His struggle for control feels constant and believable, shaped by his past and his commitment to staying clean. That internal battle adds depth to every decision he makes, especially when Scarlett walks back into his life and turns everything upside down. Their history gives their connection an immediate intensity, and the shift from one unforgettable night to a high stakes, off limits situation creates tension that never really lets up.


Scarlett holds her own in a difficult position. Being the dean’s daughter, his student, and someone dealing with a threatening ex puts her under pressure from every direction. Her choice to enter a marriage of convenience does not come across as weak but as calculated and necessary, which makes the dynamic between her and Cormac even more compelling.


The marriage trope is executed well here. What starts as transactional quickly becomes messy and emotional, with both characters struggling to maintain boundaries they were never going to keep. The forced proximity and power imbalance are central to the story, but the emotional pull and growing attachment are what make it addictive to read.


Cormac being a single father adds another layer to his character, softening some of his harder edges and giving glimpses of the man beneath the control he clings to. It also raises the stakes of every choice he makes, especially when his carefully structured life begins to unravel.


The tone stays consistent with its dark academia and mafia adjacent elements, creating a backdrop that feels both elite and dangerous. The absence of a third act breakup is a refreshing change, allowing the story to focus more on growth and commitment rather than unnecessary separation.


Overall, this is a high tension, emotionally driven romance that thrives on its forbidden nature and complex characters. If you enjoy age gap, professor student dynamics, and marriage of convenience with real emotional weight, this one will pull you in and keep you hooked.

[♡︎ Kesa Subban ♡︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖢𝗈𝗋𝗆𝖺𝖼
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖲𝖼𝖺𝗋𝗅𝖾𝗍𝗍
5 𝘊𝘰𝘳𝘳𝘶𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧

Deal with the Devil, which was released in 2023, was my very first book by Deborah and also an introduction to the O'Rourke family and world.

The Astoria Royals world, has been my absolute favourite and Cormac's book...my most anticipated.

His redemption book...so f****** good.

Scarlett, her passion for helping people is what lead her to be a certified EMT since she was nineteen. But being an EMT was just the beginning, she was determined to be a doctor.

A year went since she took a break from her studies. It was time she desperately needed, but after a year she is more than ready to get back into the swing of things.

Her ex boyfriend however, well he isn't happy with that and will do everything possible to not only make her his once again, but also make her fail.

Cormac! Damn this man...two years! My most anticipated book for two years...and Deborah delivered.

Cormac, he is one of eight kids. Being one of the younger ones, he and his twin brother got to choose their path rather than being part of the mafia world.

Being a pediatric surgeon was a career he worked hard for, but after doing a risky surgery that was successful, he was suspended. A suspension that eventually led him down a very dark path.

Addiction made him someone he didn't recognise, and that will forever haunt him. It also makes him believe that he isn't worthy of love or happiness.

Cormac and Scarlett spent one night together, one that impacted them in ways they never expected.

The probability of seeing each other afterwards was slim.....well until they come face to face when he takes a teaching position at the university she is studying in, and she ends up being his student.

The chemistry between these two was so good, and I loved the development of the relationship. And loved the fact that she stood by Cormac regardless of everything that he went through.

The main leads vulnerability, the love he felt for his son. His determination to right all the wrongs but also having the O'Rourke blood running through his veins and being completely and utterly in love and protective of his wife...perfect.


𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

Lachlan freaking O'Rourke. This man 🤌🏻
Darragh, Ana and Sophie 💜
Trace & Shea 💛

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 💉🩺💉🩺💉
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 📖🩺📖🩺📖
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is intense, emotional and addictive. Cormac is a man with a dark history and demons that haunt him. He is finally getting his life back on track when Scarlett makes an appearance in it. Their very passionate one night stand is never far from his mind. Discovering she is not only the Dean’s, his boss’s, daughter and now one of his students is a shock. Cormac struggles to control his attraction and to avoid all personal interaction with the woman he can’t get out of his head. Keeping his new job requires him to be married, so when he discovers that Scarlett’s abusive ex is bothering her, he makes a bold proposal. A marriage of convenience would give them both a measure of safety. The close proximity makes it impossible to keep their hands off each other, though, and both are forced to acknowledge their feelings for each other are definitely not platonic.

The connection between Cormac and Scarlett is intrinsic and the chemistry blistering hot. Both have wary hearts, but find it impossible to keep their guards up around the other. Scarlett gets to see the softer side of the indomitable, tightly controlled and demanding Cormac. She sees his vulnerability and sincere regrets as he reveals his past, the guilt and shame that have spurred his efforts to find redemption and to be a better man. Scarlett’s generous heart and compassion rather than judgement of his actions goes a long way to helping Cormac heal. His support, encouragement and pride in her pursuing her dreams help Scarlett to heal emotionally too.

I enjoyed the advance and retreat nature of Cormac and Scarlett’s relationship, as well as realization and revelation of their deep feelings for each other. Cormac’s redemption is hard won and riveting. His dark and dangerous past is put to rest and his family’s support is wonderful part of this story. Together, Cormac and Scarlett can handle whatever the future brings. The bitterness of the past makes their new found love and happiness all the sweeter.

I give this book two thumbs up, five stars and my full recommendation.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hey Teacher, Leave Those Kids Alone! Lessons in Corruption is the fourth book in the Astoria Royals series by Deborah Garland. If you like tropes of Dark Academia, Mafia, Professor/Student, 8 year Age Gap, A Single Father and a Marriage of Convenience then this book has them plus it has no cheating, no third act break up and ends with a HEA. Sadly, no epilogues, but this is a stand alone and we have interconnectable characters that revisit.

TW: Graphic Violence, Murder, Domestic Abuse (on page), Stalking, Threats, Death of a parent (mentioned, not on page), Suffering of a parent with cancer (mentioned, not on page), Death of an adult child from drug overdose (Not an MC, mentioned, and not on the page), Past addiction of a MC, Past neglect of a MC, Graphic Sex, CNC, Cheating but not a MC.


I would like to Thank The Author Agency and Deborah Garland for my ARC and in return I voluntarily promised an honest review.


Scarlett Ford turns down her boyfriends marriage proposal and then finds him cheating so she leaves and ends up with a handsome older man who shows her what good sex is.

Cormac O'Rourke has goals and the most important is to stay clean and stay focused on his new job as a Professor so he can see his son more.

When Scarlett walks into her MS-3 class she is surprised to see Cormac who she hasn't forgotten and tries to keep her head down.

Cormac finds out he spent the night with his Dean's daughter who also happens to be his mentor. Now she's off limits and he can't put his hands back on her.

But when Scarlett's ex threatens her future, Cormac proposes a solution of a marriage of convenience with no intimacy.

When Scarlett starts learning of his hidden secrets will she leave him or will she let the Lessons of Corruption sway her into a real marriage?

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lessons in Corruption by Deborah Garland completely pulled me in from the very first chapter and refused to let go. First off, I have to say how incredibly thankful I am to Deborah for the beautiful PR box because it honestly made this reading experience even more special. You can feel the love and care poured into everything she does and this book absolutely delivered.

Cormac and Scarlett had the kind of chemistry that practically crackled off the pages. The tension between them was intense, emotional, messy, addictive, and impossible not to obsess over. Cormac is trying so hard to stay in control of his life and his recovery, and I loved that this story showed strength without falling into the typical relapse storyline. His journey felt raw, honest, and incredibly powerful. Scarlett was equally amazing because she was strong, determined, and willing to fight for herself even when everything around her was complicated.

The professor/student dynamic mixed with the marriage of convenience trope was EVERYTHING. Add in the dark academia vibes, forced proximity, mafia-adjacent tension, and the emotional depth underneath all the spice, and I was completely hooked. Every interaction between them had so much intensity behind it that I found myself flying through the pages because I needed to know what would happen next.

One of my favorite things about this book was how emotional it felt underneath all the tension and chemistry. The relationship development felt genuine and addictive at the same time. And can we talk about the fact there was no third act breakup? Thank you for sparing my heart because these two had already been through enough.

If you love age gap romances with possessive energy, emotional depth, protective MMCs, and enough tension to make your heart race, you need this book on your TBR immediately.

[Ashley Bolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the redemption story I needed in my life. When we first met Cormac he was not a very good guy in his brothers book. At the end he showed promise and I was hopeful that he would get his own redemption and he got just that. I was blown away by his story. I felt all the feels for Cormac. I'll be honest the emotionally damaged men are my favorite. Cormac was no different. You could feel that he was really sors]ry and that what he did in the past really weighed on him as a person. He was slowly trying to piece back the pieces of his life. He wanted to be the man that he should have been before addiction took a hold on his life. When his cab accidently runs over Scarlett it was fate stepping in to give him exactly what they both needed even if they did not know that they needed it. Cormac was trying to fix his mistakes and hopefully get shared custody of his son. Scarlett left her abusive ex and was trying to find her way back to medical school. What better way to leave a bad relationship by getting under a new man. She just wanted a one night thing but they both got way more than they bargined for. Their surprise second meeting was perfection. Not knowing he had a twin was epic. I would have loved to been a fly on that wall. I absolutely love this world that Deborah has built. I find more and more chracters to fall in love with. She makes characters that you want to get to know and that you will easily fall in love with. Not to mention all her stories keep you engaged from start to finish. I just love this world and the characters and I cannot wait what is left in store for us. Getting to see old friends was also a fun little addition. I also like that their is not a third act break up. I love a story with out that. If you love a good redemption arc this is the book for you.

[Haley Lipinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

[ARC Review]

A+

Hot for teacher AND hot for student! [Fans self like a sinner in church]. Scarlett quickly became my professor - got me taking notes on dirty talk.

"But when Cormac looks at me today in class, he’s going to know exactly what I want. Exactly what he does to me. I want to watch him break. A glance, a shift of my legs, a deliberate, perfect provocation that only he will feel. And he’ll feel it like a hand wrapped around his throat. I slide into my seat in his lecture hall and cross my legs for now. Until the show begins.”

What started as a simple one-night of debaucherous fun, quickly came back with a vengeance when Cormac walked into his classroom and found Scarlett sitting there. Not only was she the one person he couldn't get out of his head but she was his boss’s daughter and 100% off limits.

“Because I can’t look at you without remembering your mouth on mine,” I murmur. “Without thinking about how you’d taste again. Because if you stay in that class, I’m going to want you every time you walk through the door. And wanting you is something I cannot deal with right now.”

This book had everything I could want …
🖤 Mafia
🖤 Bratty, witty FMC
🖤 Steamy spice
And things I didn't know I'd be into - but became a believer
🖤 Professor (college) x Student
🖤 Marriage of Convenience

“I will be, Cormac.” “Professor. Or Doctor.” He leans in. “Do not call me Cormac.” “Yes, professor,” I say in a sex kitten voice. Despite my heart hammering, this is a lot of fun.”

I.AM.TIRED. I can't afford to lose this much sleep. I should have known better than to f*** around and find out by reading before bed only to get hit with their “f*** it” moment.

5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Read it.

*Note: It can be read as a standalone.

[Korkoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fated Connection Worth Exploring -
The first time Scarlett and Cormac met, it ended in a one night stand between strangers, but fate had other plans in store for them and brought them back into each other’s lives when they least expected it. The moment Scarlett and Cormac found themselves in a complicated situation due to their intense attraction for each other, he tried to convince her to walk away, but she wasn’t prepared to derail her plans.

Although Cormac and Scarlett tried everything possible to maintain a professional relationship, they soon found themselves in a situation where they were forced to enter into a platonic marriage of convenience. However, the sparks between Scarlett and Cormac kept growing over time and escalated into stolen kisses that turned into mind blowing steamy encounters.

Unfortunately, not long after Scarlett and Cormac settled into their new life, her ex-boyfriend decided to wreak havoc on their lives, but the consequences of his actions made him realise Scarlett and Cormac weren’t people he could ness with. Luckily, Scarlett and Cormac finally acknowledged the inevitable and confessed their feelings for each other, so they could work together to build the life that they wanted.

I really enjoyed reading this unique emotionally charged romance story that drew me in from the beginning and was so captivating, that I could take a break until I finished reading the book. I found the real strengths of the story lay in the dynamic between the characters and the realistic interactions they had with their families, which made the story a lot more interesting and enjoyable. Grab a copy of this book now and entertain yourself for a few hours.

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

[Jaimee Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book!

Cormac is trying to rebuild his life after a year of sobriety and working hard at redemption and forgiveness for his past wrongdoings. He is determined to remain committed to his new life and forge ahead in order to reclaim an existence he can be proud of.

Scarlett is also trying to reclaim her life after leaving her toxic boyfriend and re-entering medical school to follow her dream of becoming a doctor.

Their paths collide in a bit of meet-cute and they have such an intense connection and one unforgettable night together. It's not until Scarlett returns to medical school that she discovers Cormac is her professor. They are now faced with an impossible decision as their chemistry is undeniable and becomes harder to ignore. But the complications don't end there. An antiquated requirement of the college means in order to secure a full-time teaching position, Cormac must be married by the end of the semester. He proposes a marriage of convenience with Scarlett that will serve them both.

Cormac has a lot of demons and secrets that hold him back from believing he deserves to be happy and watching him unravel and slowly show vulnerability, revealing his true self to Scarlett is deeply satisfying and helps the reader to empathise with Cormac and the challenges he has overcome to redeem himself. Scarlett was full of grace and understanding and the perfect fit for this broken man that she helped to piece back together.

There are equal parts chemistry, angst, tension, sass and spice with a F**k it moment thrown in. I mean, who wouldn't want a tatted filthy-mouthed Irish doctor connected to the mafia ❤️‍🔥

[Madison Neil · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW!🩻Available on KU May 22nd!

Thank you so much Deborah Garland and The Author Agency for the ARC opportunity!

Rating: ★★★★.25/5
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
Tropes: Dark Academia, Mafia, Professor x Student, Age Gap, Marriage of Convenience, Forced Proximity

I honestly think I could write an essay on this book. Wow. Can I just start off by saying I literally threw myself into this universe. I’ve never read anything from Astoria Royals prior to this, and I feel like I’ve been missing a whole new favourite book world.

Now, let me just talk about Cormac for a minute. I honestly had no idea how he was going to get redemption after his past, but boy oh boy was I along for ride. You can literally feel his pain and remorse, his passion to prove himself to everyone that he really could redeem himself and come back from such a difficult past was such a cool thing to watch unravel.

As for Scarlett, her life hasn’t been a cake walk either, dealing with a powerful yet crazy ex, and demanding father, who also happens to be the schools dean. I LOVED that not only did Cormac embrace Scarlett’s ambitions, he heavily encouraged, and that’s exactly what she needed. I loved their chemistry from the very beginning. I’ll be bee-lining back to the beginning of the series to fully experience it, I can’t wait.

Quotes I liked:
*ARC copy, quotes may be subject to change in final version*

“I feel the addiction crawling through my veins, tempting me to want more. More of a high. More of her. I should stop, but that’s not what addicts do...”

“She’s going to ruin me. And the worst part is that the masochist in me will enjoy the pain.”

[Kira Wall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deborah Garland is a new to me author and after reading Lessons In Corruption I can say with certainty that Lessons In Corruption will not be the only book written by her that I will read.

Lessons in Corruption is a Mafia/Medical Romance. It is a standalone that occurs between two books in the series. Not having read any of the books in this series, I can say that it does in fact stand alone. It does give a glimpse into what took place in the other books but it isn't necessary to read them to understand and love this book.

This book is Cormac and Scarlett's story. After spending over a year recovering from his addiction and trying to get his life back in order he runs into Scarlett on the street (literally) after she leaves her controlling and abusive boyfriend. After a ONS they find each other face to face when he walks in as the professor in her med school class. They enter into a marriage of convenience to help her and to fulfill his obligations but their feelings never left so it is a whirlwind when they try to fight their chemistry and maintain a platonic marriage relationship. Secrets are revealed and trust must be earned but they manage to show each other that they can rely on one another through anything.

I loved the characters in this book and the character development. There are some triggering topics in this book so make sure you check the trigger warnings. Only you can protect your mental health. The spice in this book was just enough to keep it hot but not to overshadow the plot. I definitely recommend this book and will be reading her backlog soon!

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ This book is part of the Astoria Royals universe, but can be read as a standalone. Cormac O’Rourke is a doctor and recovering addict who has moved back to New York to start over. He takes on the position as a professor at a college, he finds out that one of his students is his bosses daughter, and the woman he had a one night stand with. They are forced into a marriage of convenience, but their feelings for one another are too strong and they can’t keep things platonic.

Cormac’s struggles felt very real, and I admired his desire to get his life back on track. Scarlett was a strong character and I admired her desire to continue her studies after her mother’s passing. What didn’t work for me was the confusing back and forth Cormac went through with their relationship. He’d claim Scarlett was his and kept talking about how he desired her, but would then declare they couldn’t sleep together. I was never sure where he stood until closer to the end of the book.

I did like that Scarlett was all in even when she found out about Cormac’s past, and what he went through with his addiction. Once they were truly together things were really sweet between them. Overall the book was ok, but nothing amazing for me. I do want to thank The Author Agency and Deborah Garland for the copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to leave a review.

No third act breakup

4/5 on the Spicy Scale

M/F

Violence

Past substance abuse

[Lil Bit Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC REVIEW***

Wrongfully accused of malpractice after breaking hospital protocol to save a child’s life, Cormac’s career in medicine is seemingly over. What follows next in his life is a true downfall from grace. Now, he is trying to get his life back on track and gain custody of his son. With the promise of a new career prospect, he is not expecting the job stipulations set forth, nor the woman he meets. With a firm focus on his goals, the last thing he needs is a relationship or even a resemblance of one. So, why can’t he get his one night stand off of his mind?
Scarlett is trying to escape her abusive ex and get her life back on track after taking a year long mental health break. As the Dean’s daughter, she must hold herself accountable and meet certain expectations. A relationship with a man is also
not on her priority list as a returning third year medical student. So, why can’t she get the one night stand she had out of her mind? Her first day back in class, she looks up to see Cormac at the front. Her one night stand. Her new professor.
This novel has slow burn vibes with an age gap trope. The banter between the main characters is top notch and creates a building tension that allows the spice level to be off the charts. I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content and violence. There are trigger warnings as this story mentions several difficult topics.
I received this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Good Booking Girl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time reading anything by this author, and I ended up enjoying it a lot more than I expected. Even though this is the last book in a series, it worked perfectly as a standalone for me. The author gave enough backstory and character development that I never felt lost or confused, which I always appreciate when jumping into a series late.

On the surface, the plot hits some familiar dark romance beats: mafia-adjacent vibes, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, age gap, all the delicious tension you’d expect. It’s not necessarily reinventing the trope wheel, but what made this book stand out was how well the emotional side of the story was handled, especially Cormac’s journey with addiction and healing from the pain in his past. His recovery felt meaningful and thoughtfully written, and I really respected that the story never used relapse as cheap drama.

The chemistry between Scarlett and Cormac was intense in the best way. The passion definitely delivered 🤭 but it never felt over-the-top or excessive. Their connection had emotional weight behind it, which made the romance and steam hit even harder.

Overall, this was a really solid 4-star read for me. Emotional, spicy, addictive, and a great introduction to this author’s work.

I received an advanced copy of the book and am leaving an honest review

[S Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cormac!! I love a good redemption story, and Lessons in Corruption is one of my favs. We finally get to hear Cormac’s story from his point of view. I have to admit, for at least 2 books, I have not been the biggest fan of Cormac, and I wondered how he could get redemption and reclaim his life. To say I was excited to read this one would be an understatement, and I boy did this book deliver.

Cormac is back in his family’s life after spending a year recovering and is slowly spending more time with his twin brother’s family and his son. When his brother offers to get him hired as a professor at the local medical school, he is hesitant but accepts. Little does he know that this is going to put him right back in the orbit of Scarlett, the one-night stand he can’t forget.

Scarlett and Cormac might be perfect for each other. I don’t think I could have written a better partner for him. Scarlett has just the right amount of strength and resilience Cormac needs. There are so many great moments in this book; the story is engaging with just the right amount of steamy scenes and emotional depth. Loved this book, love Cormac and Scarlett, and I love the cameos from our former favs in these interconnected mafia families. Great read!

[Michaela Zeno · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to The Author Agency and the author, Deborah Garland for an ARC of this book. Honestly, this author has become a favorite of mine. Anything she writes I want to read it, and I’ve honestly been fortunate enough to receive a lot of ARCs from her and like all the others, this one did not disappoint!! It is the first in the series that I’ve read and it doesn’t take away anything you can still enjoy this book without having read the previous ones, but of course you’d probably get a better experience if you’ve read them in order. Cormac and Scarlett have chemistry right off the bat and I honestly love that for them!! Of course the relationship is a little risqué at first because teacher x student and bosses daughter, but we also have the secret pining and then we also have “I need a wife,” so a little bit of marriage of convenience…a lot of tropes but they’re all great. I honestly just found myself flying through the book. I genuinely didn’t want to put it down and I loved the way Cormac and Scarlett‘s relationship progressed through out the book and how he opened up more to Scarlet and how they just made each other better.

[Kittana Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of a series and continues from Ring of Truth. Though this book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading in order as the character arcs will then make more sense. Important that you check triggers as there are dark themes in this book.

This is completely a redemption story for Cormac. He was introduced in Ring of Truth as the 'villain' to his protective and 'good' twin Darragh.

I didn't connect as much with Cormac at that point and my assessment was he got what he deserved. But apparently there was more to his story that needed told. So Lessons in Corruption emerged.

Deborah Garland managed to masterfully bring out the redemption and reinvention of Cormac the villain into Cormac the repentant brother and humbled father.

I found myself agreeing that Cormac deserved the opportunity to find and prove himself as a father. That he was worthy of the love of not only his family but Scarlett.

I'm really looking forward to listening to the audiobook when it is released as I am sure I will greatly enjoy it.

I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amber Keehn · Rating 5 out of 5]

First- I highly recommend reading (or listening to) Ring of Truth, which is Darragh and Ana’s story. Without giving spoilers away, you will be cheering Cormac’s redemption because be is definitely one of the more flawed MMCs of the Astoria Royals.

Lessons in Corruption takes place a year or so after his appearance in Ring of Truth. Cormac has the opportunity to take on Darragh’s job as a med school professor as he works to rebuild his life and overcome his demons. He has a chance meeting with Scarlett, which leads to a one night stand. Thinking he’ll never see her again he decides it’s best not to exchange information.
Scarlett, on the rebound from a toxic relationship, turns out to be one of his new students. Both do everything in their power to resist but their chemistry is too much to ignore.
I had been cheering for Cormac since his appearance in Ring of Truth and Illicit Temptation. When Deborah Garland announced she wrote his story I ran to get it as soon as possible! I loved his story, the depth of their characters and seeing the romance blossom between them. Five Stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good book about Cormac O'Rourke and Scarlett Ford. She had been living with Pierce who cheated on her and then hit her. She left immediately and Cormac sort of rescued her after the taxi he was in almost hit her. They had amazing chemistry, but he fought it with all his might. It turned out he was her professor as she was a third year medical student.
I loved how we got to see Ana and Darragh O'Rourke, Sophie (his daughter) and JP who is actually Cormac's son with Ana (last book) but Darragh and Ana (who are married)are raising him as their son.
Cormac is a recovering addict but has been clean for a year and wants to spend more time with his son.
There is lots of drama, amazing sex scenes, close medical issues, kills, threats with warnings and finally understanding that Cormac has come full circle and can now live his best life with Scarlett.

I got this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

He becomes obsessed!
First of all, great showcase of addiction (not on page) and recovery (referred to in past tense). I always appreciate when our characters are imperfect people, in this case Cormac had his work cut out for him and when he met Scarlett, was a year clean at that time. Scarlett, leaves her boyfriend, who she turned down a proposal for, walked in on him cheating, and then he had the nerve to lay hands on her. After a chance encounter that very night, Scarlett and Cormac spent one amazing evening together. Neigher can forget the other until they see each other again, where he's her professor, and her dad is his boss. So crazy! But I absolutely. loved the rollercoaster ride we went on navigating all the prickly pieces of Cormac's past, as well as the pressure from Scarlett's ex. And the true love from Cormac's family we see, even though he can't, is amazing. Be ready for some super spicy scenes in this one.

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 5 out of 5]

5🌟, 3🌶️

Cormac’s story was the one I was most nervous about, and it completely won me over.

After everything we had seen from him in the earlier books, I was not sure how Deborah Garland was going to make me root for him, but she absolutely did. I flew through this book and ended up loving his redemption arc.

Cormac and Scarlett had incredible chemistry from the start. The forbidden tension, marriage of convenience, and all the emotional baggage between them made their story so easy to get lost in. Scarlett was exactly the steady, strong presence Cormac needed, and I loved watching him slowly let his guard down with her.

This book had the perfect balance of angst, steam, and heart. Seeing familiar faces from the series was such a treat, and Cormac’s journey felt deeply satisfying.

This book gave me exactly the redemption arc I was hoping for.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Deborah Garland & The Author Agency for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨

[A. Clements · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 6/5⭐️
Spice: 4/5 🌶️
Suspense: 4.5/5 🔪

OMG...I can't believe I devoured this book in literal hours...

I was obsessed and could not put this down.

Cormac and Scarlett had such a push pull relationship where they were always trying to to prove the other one needed them more while also pulling back because they knew there was a line about to be crossed. Their chemistry was next level and their banter. I found myself desperately wanting to know what happened next, desperately wanting them to get their HEA.

I was literally kicking my feet, squealing, blushing, biting my nails as I read this.

This Book is a must!!!

𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
🎓Dark Academia
🎓Mafia Adjacent
🎓Professor/Student
🎓Age-Gap
🎓Single Father
🎓Marriage of Convenience
🎓Boss’s Daughter
🎓Forced Proximity
🎓F*k It
🎓Lachlan Shows Up!
🎓No 3rd Act Break Up

[Erin Stapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay so I wasn't sure how Deborah Garland was going to redem Cormac after her last book but man did she do a phenomenal job with his redemption story. I was furious with him in the previous book and not I can't get enough of him. I love that she didn't make it easy on him, that he admits his wrongs and yet still struggles with it, but he has the love and help of his family that wants to see him succeed and wants the best for him.

Scarlett. . . a perfect match for him. Her past relationship showing some dark sides that Cormac felt he could relate to on some level not in all which was important, but also wants to protect her from. Scarlett, strong, resilient, and yet so fiesty. She was just what Cormac needed. Yes the Cameos had me screaming with excitment and of course who doesn't love a little Lachlan. But she did such a wonderful job with this story. i couldn't put it down.

[Redcurlsangel · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review, thx Deborah Garland

Finally, Cormac's story is here, and expectations were sky-high. But Deborah nails it; the wait was worth it.
This storyline doesn't focus so much on turf wars and rivalries, but rather on how a man (Cormac) tries to atone for past mistakes and learns to forgive himself. This path is incredibly bumpy and heartbreaking, but Cormac receives unexpected help from Scarlett, a woman who also wants to become a doctor, just like Cormac, but who has enough problems of her own.
This emotional rollercoaster, the struggle against all odds, and the blossoming of love between them is beautifully and sensitively portrayed. Especially because Cormac's dark side sometimes wins out. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this blend of emotions, angst, suspense, and steamy s@x.
Highly recommended.
HEA no cheating or sharing
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 4/5

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advance Reader Copy of Lessons in Corruption.

I have been waiting for Cormac’s story to be released and this did not disappoint! Not going to lie, there were times in the other books that I seriously disliked him but Lessons in Corruption not only redeemed him, he’s now one of my favorite O’Rourke brothers (only second to Lachlan).

Cormac put in the work on himself and has clawed his way back into his family’s lives and to being a productive member of society. He still trying to come to terms with some of is past but you can really feel his emotional struggles.
He and Scarlet have a totally cute meet cute and the spark and banter shine through with every interaction. Scarlet is good for him and makes him see the good in himself. I never expected for Cormac to be such a crier but that only helps make him so lovable.

[Kara Daigle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cormac is the kind of redemption story that pulls you in from the very beginning. Cormac and Scarlett balanced each other perfectly, and watching their relationship grow felt honest, emotional, and incredibly rewarding. Scarlett helped Cormac see the strength he already had within himself, especially in his sobriety, while reminding him that he was capable of protecting and caring for the people he loved.

What made this story stand out was how deeply both characters challenged each other. Scarlett was everything Cormac believed he didn’t deserve, while Cormac became everything Scarlett never expected to need. Their connection felt natural, heartfelt, and impossible not to root for.

I absolutely loved this book. I have been stuck in a major reading slump lately, and this was exactly the kind of emotional, addictive story I needed to pull me out of it.