Now Dante comes for her—no warnings, no negotiations. Just the terrifying focus of a man who collects debts in blood. As she spirals deeper into danger, her only ally becomes the one man she shouldn't Savant Torres, whose crumbling marriage strains under his wife's dangerous fascination with YN Braze.
Giovanni DeLuca's empire teeters on collapse. The RICO investigation tightens its grip. Betrayal festers within his inner circle. Then—she returns.
Solei Navarro. Grimm's queen. A storm wearing human skin.
But the true threat emerges from the shadows.
The Hollow Flame has risen.
Warlock—the ghost story made flesh—steps into the light. His purpose? To cleanse what Black Flame has corrupted.
Loyalties will shatter. Every alliance carries an expiration date. In their world, love doesn't conquer—it condemns.
This series started off good but I knew the minute I didn’t finish 4 the series was done for me. I skipped 200 plus pages of this last book because this was nothing but fluff. It took so long to get to the point I wondered if moni was gone have the babies. She DIDNT! This book all over the place too many characters that didn’t need to be added and too much information not enough plot and point. And now you want us to read another one. I guess I’m old school because the OG authors would’ve wrapped this up 2 books ago and started a spin off but not these new authors. They think having 5 or 6 parts will keep the readers reading but it doesn’t. It pisses us off because GET TO THE POINT. The books start off so good then BOOM drawn out scenes, characters and chapters.
Everything was crazy but the cliffhanger. Bella was grimey huh?!! Grimm was wild so Solei wasn’t wrong. I still don’t like Rico. Warlock is right. Everybody is too soft. Glad Dante got Lena out of here.
There is a lot to unpack. There was so much revealed. When Savant walked into Braze Birthday party with Lena snakish and disloyal ass. I knew it was about to turn into a whole damn mess. The Black Flame was on the Torres Cartel ass. Aria whooped Lena ass. Nyelle tore Azeira tf up. Braze and Angel went head to head. Bankston was walking through knocking folk's out. Dante was all over Savant. Whew lawdddd they showed out and tore Moni club up and she was pissed. It didn't get no better when they all ended up in jail together. Nyelle read Azeira and Lena for filth. I was laughing hard asf. Everything Aria said to Lena about how Dante was coming for her because of what she did was the truth. The talk Aria had with Nyelle opened her eyes. Nyelle realized that just because her and Braze share a son and a past. She didn't have to continue to deal with their toxic relationship. I also believe Nyelle was truly hurt by how Braze did her when it came to Azeira. Braze was taunting Savant about Azeira but when Savant decided to taunt Dante about Lena. A bomb was ticking. I couldn't even feel sorry for Lena because when they first got together. Dante warned her about betraying him. This was the book I saw the human side of Giovanni. He let go of the coldness and realized he needed to be a better father to Bankston and Aria because they were hurting to. Gio finally revealed why he wanted Bankston to marry Moni. He had a 20 something year old secret buried under her family club and Moni great great Uncle was the only person that could give him access. Braze thought playing with Savant about Azeira was fun and game's until his brother Tae got kidnapped. Braze was crashing out. Especially when he saw Savant was behind it. He knew what Savant was capable of. One thing I knew was when they retaliated and snatched up Angel. Felonee was going to come after Azeira and she did. I wholeheartedly believed Felonee after she whooped Azeira ass and said that if she don't get her husband back. She was killing Azeira and her mother. As much as Grimm crazy ass play around. I realized when his wife Solei came into town. He have some deep rooted trauma. I knew Rico was too good to be true but he really didn't have a choice but to do what Savant wanted him to except Rico drew the line at hurting Aria. I was glad he finally told her the truth. Jury coming in with his smooth, suit and tie wearing ass have Braze chest hurting since Nyelle is giving Jury her attention. Braze is in his feelings. However Braze ended up letting how Jury look confuse him. Jury ain't just a Black Flame Attorney. He is a beast behind that suit and tie. I don't know wtf Warlock is but the n***a is like the grim reaper. A ghost. The way he swooped into the Black Flame HQ like Casper and shut s**t down. Had everybody silence including Giovanni. What Warlock did to Angel Torres with blinking set Savant whole soul on fire. This mfn is definitely going to start a war with the Black Flame. Bankston was shot, Moni went into labor, and Grimm dropped a secret so damn deep and betraying. They need to dig Isobella back up. Resurrect her ass and re-alive her because ain't no way in hell she literally took "I'm taking my secrets to the grave" to her mfn grave. Chileeeee Giovanni might die from a heart attack or broken heart instead of behind the street war.
Brickhouse is back at it again with another emotionally unhinged, action-packed rollercoaster in Surrogate to an Unhinged Mafia Boss (Book 4). And let me just say—this book? A lot was happening. RICO cases, secret alliances, new characters, surprise returns, and emotional fallout that had me pacing the room like I was part of the inner circle myself.
Let’s start with Lena. Whew. She made her bed and had to lie in it—permanently. Her betrayal was heartbreaking, and as much as I wanted to root for her redemption, Dante warned her. He told her. And when the time came, he stood on it. Cold. Ruthless. But undeniably poetic. That letter she left behind added such a fragile, human touch to her end, and when Dante read it? Yeah, that hurt. And that line—"Lena’s body lay twisted in the bedsheets, hair splayed like an ink spill..."—was cinematic and tragic. You could feel Dante crack, but all that was left inside him was rage.
I needed more of Bankston and Moni in this book. Like, desperately. Their energy, their depth, and the way they add balance to the madness were sorely missed. Brickhouse, don’t hold out on us next time—we need our faves in the spotlight too.
Savant Torres was a surprising standout. His messy dynamic with his wife—especially with her obsession over YN Braze—brought a new kind of tension. And Braze? He was unbearable in this installment. All ego and no accountability. Happy to see Nyelle finally channeling her inner Cardi B and dropping that dead weight. It’s what she—and we—deserve.
The new characters? Chef’s kiss. Solei Navarro was a storm in heels, and I am living for the chaos she brings. Her return gave us a closer look at Grimm’s world, and that whole “I the papi” revelation? Unhinged and iconic. Giovanni’s character growth was also refreshing—finally showing a man trying to evolve past blood and brutality—but let’s be real, with that ending? He won’t stay soft for long.
Now let’s talk Rico. I knew he couldn’t be trusted. The man gives off nothing but snake energy and gas station cologne. Aria needs to keep her head on a swivel, because the betrayal? It’s coming. I can feel it in my soul.
And then there’s The Hollow Flame. Warlock stepping into the light was the eerie, prophetic twist this saga needed. He’s the ghost of judgment, and now no one’s hands are clean enough to hide.
This book was layered—emotionally heavy, thrilling, and constantly shifting. No alliance feels safe. No character feels untouchable. And love? In this world, it doesn't save—it condemns. Overall a great read and I am anticipating book 5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Quote:” Once you’re in, you’re in. And that’s on Flame, baby.”
The way I have been stalking this release should be studied!! This is the 4th installment of this book I call a show 😂. Please go back and read all of the drama from books 1-3 and its attached character books. You literally will not be disappointed.I can promise you that. Yet another masterpiece by an auto buy author for me. DISCLAIMER: 95% of the things I read have a trigger warning and I love it. Protect your peace and mental health at all cost!!! Like all of my reviews, I won’t spoil it for you, but again, we are still in the midst of chaos. I feel like I say that almost every review, but it’s the truth!!! The universe of the Flame is expanding in this book and we are getting a feel for the other factions in the universe. All I can say is, I am living for this world Bickhouse is building. We still have our FMC and MMC Aurmoni and Banks. They are still navigating the life of an underboss and his queen, as well as the building on their personal love and legacy. Lawwddd so many things have happened in this book and I can’t wait for you all the read it so we can really chit chat. This installment is oozing BETRAYAL, growth, love, chaos, life,death, and everything in between. Supporting characters all had a role to play and baybeee the new characters are….let’s just say I am speechless. 😶 One thing about these characters, they are going to have you laughing so hard as the build and break relationships. BRICKHOUSE did such a good job with the entire series and this book is no different. The writing and descriptive imagery is A1 and man can she right a good flashback memory. (Idk why this is a pet peeve of mine when reading, but no complaints over here.) This writing style could be described as fluent, lyrical, and extremely stylistic, which I love. You a book with many quotable moments, this is the read for you. Overall, this is a must read, BUT I’ll say it louder for the people in the back. Read and reread the last 3 books first1
You will love this book if you love chaos like me, plot, spicy spice, diabolical living and schemes, and of course this genre.IYKYK! Now normally, I am not a big fan of cliffhangers, but BRICKHOUSE is one of 2 authors that have made me fall in love with them. SOOOOO not too much on my girl BRICKHOUSE. I don’t play about her 😂. (But FR though 😂)
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (based on my own delu lu scale) Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (based on my own delu lu scale)
Brickhouse done got me tight right now!!!! Just finished Book 4 and she better be writing book 5 as I’m typing this!!! Braze: Out here acting like Offset!! Crashing out because ya baby momma didn’t want you no more after you dogged her out!! You deserve to be butt hurt!! Nyelle: That’s right sis…………you Cardi B protege and I ain’t mad at you!! Do ya thing sis!! Jury: You’re the epitome of what all of us women look for in a man and I’m here for it 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 But even though you’re courting Nyelle, I still feel like there’s some feelings behind Aria. Dante & Lena: Dante you did right by the pass around prostitute with BV. Good job!! Grimm & Gio: I won’t lie…….I didn’t expect this AT ALL!!! I can’t wait to see how this plays out with you two, Dael, Bank, Aria and Solei. Nothing but betrayal and the one person who can answer all the questions is buried in the garden. Talk about taking a secret to the grave!! Bella did that!! Bankston: My man, my man, my man………….im praying for you king!!! Come back to me, Moni & our babies 🥺🫶🏾 Aurmoni: We got you sis!! 🫶🏾 Warlock: I like the way you move!! I love dark, unhinged and authoritive!! REAL BIG BOSSMAN!!!! 😍😍 Last but not least, Savant……………I can’t wait until the day you get what you deserve!!! I hate you!! Count ya days - you and trifling Ze 😤😤😤 Looking forward to Book 5!!! I need that EXPEDITIOUSLY!! I don’t care if it’s 1000 pages - I NEED THAT 👌🏾🤌🏾
I’m not even surprised there was a cliffhanger. Because every thing that happened in this book, there was no way it could be wrapped up that quick.
When I say Bella left out of here a bad mammajamma!!! Honey that lady was pulling strings from behind the scenes and beyond the grave. You hear me?!!!
All I can say it…I’m glad Bank and Moni got on one accord. I’m laughing at Lena and Ze being one in the same. Smh…
Dante is a coldhearted, calculated killa and I loved every second of his crashout.
I’m interested to see how Aria will handle Rico going forward. I do applaud her for growth. 😏
Braze is actually one of my fav character but baby boy gots to grow up. While I actually didn’t initially cut for Nyelle, I’m glad she’s growing into womanhood and realizing she deserves more.
Soliel is wrong as two left shows, but being how it ended, I need a timeline to see if I gotta change my opinion.
Gio getting back everything he’s supposed to. Bella warned him, but he didn’t listen.
Uncle Keys is that nagga and baby WARLOCK came in the room and immediately pushed that man cap back. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 He said, WHY WE WASTING TIME!
Savant to the city may seem scary but in real life he got that bish in him. That’s why Braze got to him so bad. However, how quick that Karma came back to bite Braze in the assssss. 🤣🤣
My Goodness, Brick needs to immediately drop the next part before I loose what little marbles I have left. 🤦🏾♀️
Brickhouse knows how to captive you. Even when I knew a major twist was coming, the writing was so good I still sat up and leaned forward. What I love about her writing is that plot holes you think are there truly aren't. Just when the toxicity starts to feel too much, she sends in cold hair-raising death walking to re-set. Just when a storyline is about to feel repeat, she swerves left. That is a great skill, especially with a story of this scope. Who knew that lil story from Book 1 would evolve as it has? So many callbacks and some moments that feel full circle.
My feelings and emotions are frayed. Characters I loved in Book 1 I depsie now. Characters I despised I now love. And so much is wrapped up on page you have no choice but to become addicted.
This read feels so cinematic and it hooks you in from go. Best of all it feels like a legit reading journey. I'm talking to the book like it can talk back. I'm taking sides like I'm for real about of the gang gang 😄.
Brickhouse has once again crafted a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The numerous surprises in this book made for an engaging read. While Braze and his YN shenanigans were entertaining, I welcomed the opportunity to delve deeper into Nyelle's character. She is a boss and I was glad to see the transformation into a confident, self-loving individual. Aria's situation evokes sympathy, but it's essential she learns to ask for help. There is no way that he family will be cool with knowing what was really going on in her situationship. The impending challenges facing Bankston and Aurmoni have sparked my curiosity, and I hope all characters emerge unscathed. The exposure of secrets and the addition of new characters have raised questions, leaving me wondering about the direction of the story. This book is an exhilarating experience, and I look forward to seeing how it concludes.
You must read book 1, 2 and 3 to understand this book.. This was my first series by BrickHouse, and I am so glad I started here! I was about to dive into Warlock, but her suggestion to start with this series was on point. Let me tell you—this isn’t for the faint of heart. The writing immediately pulled me in, captivating my imagination with every scene. I never had to guess at what was happening because everything was crafted so clearly and vividly.
The character development was flawless, and every detail of the plot felt intentional and perfectly executed. I loved how well-rounded the characters were and how the tension and drama kept me hooked from start to finish. I’m obsessed with this series—I’d even watch it as a movie if given the chance! Now, I can’t wait to start Warlock and hope it turns into another epic series.
I love Jury He’s clean, cut classy gentleman behind the scenes, but a deadly weapon. Brazie’s too hotheaded. Banks shot , Moni Struggling to deliver the twins. Gio De Luca’s , Grimm and the whole Flame Mafia have so many secrets coming out. I kind of knew Grimm was close to Gio’s wife. He was around too much. That means the wife had an affair with Grimm and now he is the father of both kids. This is insane. He Held that Secret information for years. It’s so much disloyalty in this group like Wedlock said of the hollow flame ..he is watching everything unfolded behind the scenes and smiling.. I love moni hope she Have her children.moni can’t wait for book 5 the finale.
I’m completely shook! This story i the gift that keeps on giving! Loved all the delving into deep emotions in this story! Lena deserved what she got and more. I wish Dante could erase his love for her because she totally didn’t deserve any of it! Braze is getting exactly what he deserves with Jury, especially the embarrassment he gave to Nyelle over Ze. The bombs dropping in the end?! Priceless! Grimm has so much nerve being jealous of a dance when he hiding the biggest secrets like that! He know he wrong and Gio trusted him and needed him as a friend. Now that’s alll ruined! Bankston gotta survive! Love the intro of the new boogeyman Warlock. Savant shoulda been marked ages ago! I can’t wait till the next one!
It's getting real sticky in these Houston streets! Brick didn't come to play with this one, from the beginning all the way to where everything goes black...to be continued! Where is the loyalty? Where's the my word is bond? Savant, Dante, Lena Mouni, Gio, Braze, Grimm, Soleil, Aria, Rico, Jury, Nyelle...everybody just losing it...then in walks Wedlock and changes everything. My heart is in my throat with that ending. Then there's Uncle Clarence, baby if anything happens to his baby girl, he already put Gio and Banks on notice. I just hope book 5 is it...I don't even think I'm going to survive the fallout of it already! Whew, I need a drink! Happy Reading Y'all!💋
Excellent book and the storyline continues from book 3. Again the characters come to life and with their own personalities. This is another book that you will not be able to put down. Read the book to see what happens to Lena and what is going on with Ze, Braze, and Savant. Also see how Moni, Bankston and the twins are doing.This book keeps you interested to see what happens I the next chapter. It is meant to keep you invested as to what will happen next. The end is powerful! Read the book to see what happens at the end. Read books 1-3 to understand how all the characters are connected. Excellent book to read. Denise
I'm speechless and in shock. My response to the last two pages, "you have got to be kidding?"
OAN: I was initially annoyed with the writing of all these characters because it was different from the style of other books I have read. So happy Lena finally got hers. Need Aurmoni to have these babies so she can be the boss lady, the Queen if BFM. Braze is funny. Probably the best character ever written in a story to break tension. Dante is needed to balance Bank. And the story is just getting good with Grimm and Gio. It's old school heads- The Maury Povich edition.
I love the characters so much so that I remember everything about them. Unfortunately there are several times when the details about a character changes or make no sense. Its as if different authors wright each book. Last book ends with the couple taking a little girl to live with them. This book that event doesn't exist, like it never even happen. The mother is black but she is buried by olive trees like back home in Italy. The grandmother just disappears from the story. I do love the story its a good mix of mafia storyline and love. I will continue to read the books, I'm hooked.
There is so much going on in this series…. I can’t even begin to process everything… There are so many Alpha males in this book… I will say that I hope Aria and Rico and find their way. Hoping Dante’s heart will heal and he will be open to loving again. Super happy that Bankston is trying to be a loving husband and Moni is the one to bring him peace. Solei…. Wow, she seems like Grimm’s match… Hilingthey can get themselves together. Savant needs to be dealt with appropriately and fast! What a cliff hanger. This series is definitely worth reading!!!!! Brickhouse, you did your HUGE one with this. Onto the next book in the series.
Girl!!!! Not she took that secret to the mf grave!!! And Grimm had the nerve to feel some type of way by dancing with his wife knowing he already had not 1 but 2 kids by his best friend wife!!! Poor Moni she can’t catch a break and honestly I’m so ready for her to really put on like I know she can! Aria that baby be trying to do right and I hope this doesn’t set her back from her recovery. Lena definitely got what she deserves and Jury is definitely giving BDE! That cliffhanger got me clutching my pearls!
I was thoroughly entertained by this book, and I must say that Bella's character had a lasting impact on the story even after her passing. The way she manipulated events from behind the scenes was impressive, and I appreciated the complexity she brought to the narrative.
The relationship between Bank and Moni was satisfying to see develop, and I enjoyed watching Lena and Ze grow together. Dante's character was particularly intriguing, with his cold and calculated nature making him a compelling figure.
I'm eager to see how Aria will handle the challenges that come with Rico's arrival, and I'm pleased to see her character growth throughout the story. Braze's development was also noteworthy, as he matured and became more responsible.
While Soliel's actions were questionable at times, I appreciate the author's willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of the characters' behaviors. Gio's storyline was satisfying, and I felt that his ultimate outcome was fitting given the circumstances.
Uncle Keys was a standout character, and his interactions with other characters were often humorous and memorable. Savant's character was also well-developed, and his downfall was a compelling aspect of the story.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and appreciated its complex characters and engaging plot. I'm looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for the characters in future installments."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
What the hell!!! Noooooo, you didn't! I'm on this bus about to snatch my wig off on this bus lmao. Savant needs to get got NOW. Braze is selfish; Dante is mad with hisself, should've listened; Aria needs to leave Rico alone; Drea is gonna stay haunted, until she forgives herself; Gio was too stuck on being the Don; not surprised about Grimm, felt something with him and Bella. Bank, Aria and the twins, pull through🙏🏿🙏🏿 Bravo, you did that💓💓
Brickhouse, what the h*ll? This 4th booking is series really kept us on the edge. The suspense never stopped. The ups and the downs in this book will not allow you to put it down, it's a page turner. You think you know what's coming next and you really don't. I loved it. Now I'm waiting on the last book to drop. I guarantee you would not be disappointed in this series. Hats off to Brickhouse.
Where is book 5?? I couldn't put this book down!! I honestly didn't think Rico would come clean and tell Aria what he had going on with Savant. I hope everything works out with the babies and Bank because Moni is already losing it and if something happens in sure everyone is going to go crazy!! Now that is the biggest plot twist EVER when Gio got tested and I can't wait to see how that situation plays out in book 5!!
This book was written very well. It contained excitement and drama and chaos, shady characters, lies, backstabbing and a lot of karma. It also contained romance and love and erotic scenes. This most definitely could be a soap opera. Brickhouse did again with her excellent penmanship and imagination. I most definitely would recommend this book. I wish I knew there was a book five I would have waited to read the other four…
This series had me in a chokehold the whole time each book got better and better than before the characters were written and they’re the most interesting and entertaining of all the characters each series gets wilder and more interesting than the last season I want more now they’re all going through it want to see what happens when bank wakes up
Book 4 & Brickhouse ain’t let me down yet!! The action! The emotions! And the plot twist! 🤯 Chef’s kiss!!! My heart broke for my boyfriend Dante and the pain he felt having to wrap up those loose ends but it had to happen. Loved all the new characters but I don’t trust Nyelle! I need part 5 NOW!!!
No ma’am I know better. I know you didn’t drop all this drama in this book and then leave us hanging like this. Tell me that didn’t just happen? My nerves are so bad right now. My flabbers are beyond gassed. I usually try not to rush authors and let y’all cook but not this time. Book 5 me expeditiously please and thank you!
In all my book reading over the years. This one has taken my breath away. I cried so many tears. It has been an emotional roller coaster. That cliffhanger is beyond shocking. I don’t read part 4 of any series. This one has broken that trend. I will not wait patiently for 4. Hurry up Brickhouse!!!!
This series was and is hell on wheels! The twist and turns had me feeling dizzy! The ending omfg the ending has me thinking of ways to get to her computer to see part 5 because what do you mean banks is….gio isn’t….grimm damn grimy ass is….honey chile loook this series gave a headache but in a good way! Please let it be a part 5!
Brickhouse you're the best,I had no idea this drama was about to happen. The only thing to make it better is if Mini is related to Warlock. This series has me on edge,can't wait for the finale. Please release it soon. I already feel like reading the whole story over again. This by far a great reread. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟