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Club Velvet Petal #2
King of Praise
I put a permanent end to my husband’s unrelenting abuse. It was him or me. I chose me. Now I’m choosing to go on the run—with his father.
Micah Hunt is everything his son wasn't—protective without being controlling, powerful without being cruel. At fifty-four, he towers over me with quiet strength, his gray-streaked beard and dark eyes hiding secrets as dangerous as my own.
I’d done the unthinkable. The unforgivable. But Micah didn't turn me in for snuffing out his only child’s life. Instead, he cleaned up the evidence and whisked me away to his remote cabin to protect me.
Now we're forced together in close quarters, and the attraction between us is becoming impossible to ignore. Every touch, every glance, every praise from his lips sets my body on fire with forbidden desire.
But loving Micah comes with a price. He's not just my deceased husband's father—he's also a dangerous man whose enemies lurk in the shadows. As threats close in and my past threatens to expose us both, our taboo romance could cost us everything.
I know I should walk away. The age gap between us, our complicated history, the violence that surrounds him—it's all wrong. But in Micah's arms, I feel safe for the first time in years. He swears to protect me at any cost, and the possessive glint in his eyes tells me he means it. The morally gray enforcer might walk a dangerous line, but his love for me burns pure and true.
Now we're both marked by his enemies, and time is running out. Can our forbidden love survive the dangerous consequences of our choices? Or will the dark world Micah inhabits eventually tear us apart?
Author’s This is Micah and Naomi’s story. An age gap, ex-husband's dad, tormented hero, touch her and perish, survivor of domestic violence, forced proximity, only one bed, forbidden, taboo, emotional, angst-filled, dark mafia romance between a morally gray, possessive, mafia enforcer whose enemies are out for blood, and the woman he’s sworn to protect.
Trigger warnings can be found at the beginning of the book, before the start of chapter one. Please read before proceeding.
While each book in the Club Velvet Petal series is written as a standalone love story with a HEA, the mafia plotline does not conclude and continues to build throughout the series. There are no cliffhangers but this series is best enjoyed if read starting from book one. Not doing so could confuse readers on the mafia plotline and characters.
Micah Hunt is everything his son wasn't—protective without being controlling, powerful without being cruel. At fifty-four, he towers over me with quiet strength, his gray-streaked beard and dark eyes hiding secrets as dangerous as my own.
I’d done the unthinkable. The unforgivable. But Micah didn't turn me in for snuffing out his only child’s life. Instead, he cleaned up the evidence and whisked me away to his remote cabin to protect me.
Now we're forced together in close quarters, and the attraction between us is becoming impossible to ignore. Every touch, every glance, every praise from his lips sets my body on fire with forbidden desire.
But loving Micah comes with a price. He's not just my deceased husband's father—he's also a dangerous man whose enemies lurk in the shadows. As threats close in and my past threatens to expose us both, our taboo romance could cost us everything.
I know I should walk away. The age gap between us, our complicated history, the violence that surrounds him—it's all wrong. But in Micah's arms, I feel safe for the first time in years. He swears to protect me at any cost, and the possessive glint in his eyes tells me he means it. The morally gray enforcer might walk a dangerous line, but his love for me burns pure and true.
Now we're both marked by his enemies, and time is running out. Can our forbidden love survive the dangerous consequences of our choices? Or will the dark world Micah inhabits eventually tear us apart?
Author’s This is Micah and Naomi’s story. An age gap, ex-husband's dad, tormented hero, touch her and perish, survivor of domestic violence, forced proximity, only one bed, forbidden, taboo, emotional, angst-filled, dark mafia romance between a morally gray, possessive, mafia enforcer whose enemies are out for blood, and the woman he’s sworn to protect.
Trigger warnings can be found at the beginning of the book, before the start of chapter one. Please read before proceeding.
While each book in the Club Velvet Petal series is written as a standalone love story with a HEA, the mafia plotline does not conclude and continues to build throughout the series. There are no cliffhangers but this series is best enjoyed if read starting from book one. Not doing so could confuse readers on the mafia plotline and characters.
419 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
11 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Aleia Kane
4 books33 followersDark gritty mafia romance
Aleia Kane writes gritty, emotionally charged mafia romance with lots of spice, humor, drama, and big feels. Readers love her work for her engaging storytelling, relatable characters, steamy romance, and emotional depth. She has a soft spot for angst-filled, forbidden romances, second chances, and dominant, grumpy bad boys with sweet centers that are impossible not to love.
She lives in Florida, with her two kids, her cat, and a large collection of houseplants.
Aleia Kane writes gritty, emotionally charged mafia romance with lots of spice, humor, drama, and big feels. Readers love her work for her engaging storytelling, relatable characters, steamy romance, and emotional depth. She has a soft spot for angst-filled, forbidden romances, second chances, and dominant, grumpy bad boys with sweet centers that are impossible not to love.
She lives in Florida, with her two kids, her cat, and a large collection of houseplants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 17, 2025
5 ⭐️
📕: King of Praise by Aleia Kane
Why you’ll love this book!
Ex-Husband’s Dad
Forced Proximity
Only One Bed
Tormented Hero
Morally Gray Hero
Age Gap
Touch Her And Perish
Strong Heroine
Protective Hero
This is my first book of Aleia Kane’s and it definitely won’t be the last! I loved getting to see Micah’s and Naomi their connection was off the charts in my opinion. This book sucked me when I found out it was a Ex-husband’s Dad Forced Proximity, morally grey, one bed , forced romance and it was freaking chefs kiss!! Naomi is on the run from her abusing ex-husband so she runs to his dad knowing he is the only one to protect her from his son. Let’s just say the ex gets what he deserves and because of that Naomi is on the run and her ex husband dad cabin.. This book will suck you in and hold you till the very end !! I won’t say more than this go read the book it’s amazing!!
📕: King of Praise by Aleia Kane
Why you’ll love this book!
Ex-Husband’s Dad
Forced Proximity
Only One Bed
Tormented Hero
Morally Gray Hero
Age Gap
Touch Her And Perish
Strong Heroine
Protective Hero
This is my first book of Aleia Kane’s and it definitely won’t be the last! I loved getting to see Micah’s and Naomi their connection was off the charts in my opinion. This book sucked me when I found out it was a Ex-husband’s Dad Forced Proximity, morally grey, one bed , forced romance and it was freaking chefs kiss!! Naomi is on the run from her abusing ex-husband so she runs to his dad knowing he is the only one to protect her from his son. Let’s just say the ex gets what he deserves and because of that Naomi is on the run and her ex husband dad cabin.. This book will suck you in and hold you till the very end !! I won’t say more than this go read the book it’s amazing!!
September 6, 2025
ARC REVIEWER, AND HONEST REVIEW.
King of Praise is age gap dual pov between the MFC Naomi who is 26 years old, and the MMC Micah who is 54 years who each have 16 chapters in their povs. Naomi starts this book being in an abusive relationship, the book opens with this fact which introduces the start of the conflict. Micah is involved with the local mafia, introduced as an enforcer, ended being in a leader position.
The careful choice of words when Aleia was writing made this book come to life. The certain words showed how observant Micah was with Naomi’s recovery and showed that he wasn’t controlling but rather protecting. The characters relationship went at a good pace not too slow but not unreasonably fast. Both of the mc’s are detailed inside of their povs with the way they think differently and the way they perceive each other and themselves. A honorary mention is the fact that they were both able to get their piece into a deep convo multiple times in this book, 100% for communication.
What i loved-
When we see Micah move up the chain, now a leader in chapter 8. It showed Micah’s nerves but also excitement, a bonus was a more friendly side of Zeke and you could feel it. 2 moments in chapter 9, one marked was when Naomi was with the other survivors I loved that Aleia gave her a support group and the other mark was when Micah and Naomi were in the car afterwards just communicating about the situation. Ch. 11 had been cute because it was once of the first big convos they had on page that was lighthearted and showed how comfortable they are with each other. Chapter 16 proving it with the way Naomi could read Micah’s body language. Ch.22, I love how they took that action against the girls seriously, how they’re doing a show of power, because they targeted the girls. In Ch. 24 it shows a moment where you can see that Micah gives Naomi a way to slowly recover. Ch.26 when they both got their piece in on their big convo about their relationship. Loved that rather than one going silent. Finally the most tense part, ch. 28, I knew Naomi would get kidnapped at some point, but this moment was so unexpected and tense after the happy moments.
King of Praise is age gap dual pov between the MFC Naomi who is 26 years old, and the MMC Micah who is 54 years who each have 16 chapters in their povs. Naomi starts this book being in an abusive relationship, the book opens with this fact which introduces the start of the conflict. Micah is involved with the local mafia, introduced as an enforcer, ended being in a leader position.
The careful choice of words when Aleia was writing made this book come to life. The certain words showed how observant Micah was with Naomi’s recovery and showed that he wasn’t controlling but rather protecting. The characters relationship went at a good pace not too slow but not unreasonably fast. Both of the mc’s are detailed inside of their povs with the way they think differently and the way they perceive each other and themselves. A honorary mention is the fact that they were both able to get their piece into a deep convo multiple times in this book, 100% for communication.
What i loved-
When we see Micah move up the chain, now a leader in chapter 8. It showed Micah’s nerves but also excitement, a bonus was a more friendly side of Zeke and you could feel it. 2 moments in chapter 9, one marked was when Naomi was with the other survivors I loved that Aleia gave her a support group and the other mark was when Micah and Naomi were in the car afterwards just communicating about the situation. Ch. 11 had been cute because it was once of the first big convos they had on page that was lighthearted and showed how comfortable they are with each other. Chapter 16 proving it with the way Naomi could read Micah’s body language. Ch.22, I love how they took that action against the girls seriously, how they’re doing a show of power, because they targeted the girls. In Ch. 24 it shows a moment where you can see that Micah gives Naomi a way to slowly recover. Ch.26 when they both got their piece in on their big convo about their relationship. Loved that rather than one going silent. Finally the most tense part, ch. 28, I knew Naomi would get kidnapped at some point, but this moment was so unexpected and tense after the happy moments.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2025
“𝕋𝕠 𝕕𝕒𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝕞𝕖𝕟 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕜𝕖𝕖𝕡 𝕦𝕤 𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪, 𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪 𝕤𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕤𝕗𝕚𝕖𝕕,”
He’s her dead husband’s father. A morally gray mafia enforcer. Dangerous. Dominant. And somehow, the safest place she’s ever been.
Micah has this quiet, silverfox presence that gives BDE. It's verrry appealing🤤
He is protective without being controlling. Powerful without being cruel & that dominant side... Oh…he doesn’t hide it🤭.
Every whispered praise, every lingering touch, it set Naomi, & honestly me too 🙋🏽♀️ on fire. King of Praise, perfectly named because Micah is owning it & he wearing it like a damn crown🫠
Naomi, though…she’s more than just a survivor. She’s strength hidden beneath trauma. Micah sees it, admires it, worships it, and their chemistry is electric⚡Watching their relationship evolve...from protector & survivor, to friends, then Dom/sub, & finally into love.. was addictive. The first 30% I felt like I was working for this but after that every little shift made my chest tighten with anticipation because
there’s not just spicy romance there's also danger..
The mafia world is unforgiving.
There's enemies lurking in shadows. Threats that could tear them apart at any moment. Yet, through all the violence, taboo, and threats to their future, Micah’s possessive, unwavering protection never wavered. So hot!
Yes this story is a little dark, forbidden & emotional but it's also moments that make you hold your breath, laugh at the little things, and melt at a single word whispered the right way by daddy Micah. Micah & Naomi’s love maybe shouldn’t exist, but it does and it felt so pure and deep somehow... I couldn't look away.
Thank you aleia kane & greyspromo for this wonderful opportunity to read this EArc!
King of Praise by Aleia Kane is releasing September 16, 2025!!!!
He’s her dead husband’s father. A morally gray mafia enforcer. Dangerous. Dominant. And somehow, the safest place she’s ever been.
Micah has this quiet, silverfox presence that gives BDE. It's verrry appealing🤤
He is protective without being controlling. Powerful without being cruel & that dominant side... Oh…he doesn’t hide it🤭.
Every whispered praise, every lingering touch, it set Naomi, & honestly me too 🙋🏽♀️ on fire. King of Praise, perfectly named because Micah is owning it & he wearing it like a damn crown🫠
Naomi, though…she’s more than just a survivor. She’s strength hidden beneath trauma. Micah sees it, admires it, worships it, and their chemistry is electric⚡Watching their relationship evolve...from protector & survivor, to friends, then Dom/sub, & finally into love.. was addictive. The first 30% I felt like I was working for this but after that every little shift made my chest tighten with anticipation because
there’s not just spicy romance there's also danger..
The mafia world is unforgiving.
There's enemies lurking in shadows. Threats that could tear them apart at any moment. Yet, through all the violence, taboo, and threats to their future, Micah’s possessive, unwavering protection never wavered. So hot!
Yes this story is a little dark, forbidden & emotional but it's also moments that make you hold your breath, laugh at the little things, and melt at a single word whispered the right way by daddy Micah. Micah & Naomi’s love maybe shouldn’t exist, but it does and it felt so pure and deep somehow... I couldn't look away.
Thank you aleia kane & greyspromo for this wonderful opportunity to read this EArc!
King of Praise by Aleia Kane is releasing September 16, 2025!!!!
September 19, 2025
I liked this book, it was a good dark mafia romance. I love a great age gap romance especially when he’s such a “daddy” and caretaker to her. There’s also a taboo element , he’s her ex-husband's father, which makes it even more tense. The sexual tension was killing me at the start and I was shivering in anticipation. I did like the mafia world in this book, it’s interesting and made the plot thrilling. The plot twists didn’t really surprise me, but I still had a good time reading it. I liked the characters, especially since they thrived on their own pretty well and had a great chemistry. My problem was that it was in the middle in terms of vibes. Like it wasn’t really dark, yes yes in the mafia but I wouldn’t call him really morally grey. And it’s not emotional either. I thought that after she killed her husband she might have to go through lots of mental and emotional struggles but it’s only mentioned briefly which kind of irks me because I think the angst and healing journey could have made a great character arc for her. Yes she goes through it, but significantly less emotionally than I thought it would be. But it makes this book less heavy and focus more on their dynamic, he has a dom/ protector thing and she has kinda a sub arc. So that makes for amazing smutty scenes! I enjoyed this, I just didn’t think it stood out making the mafia romances I read. I’m giving this a 3/5
September 23, 2025
Holy. Freaking. Cow. 🔥 This book took forbidden and cranked it up to sinfully delicious. An age-gap, ex-husband’s dad, dark mafia romance that had my jaw on the floor more times than I can count. The power, the danger, the obsession—every single page was dripping with tension and heat.
Aleia Kane doesn’t just write a story, she owns you with it. The chemistry was explosive, the darkness intoxicating, and the twists had me gasping out loud. If you want a standalone that’s filthy, addictive, and unforgettable, King of Praise delivers it all.
Club Velvet #2? More like Club Velvet wrecked me.
Aleia Kane doesn’t just write a story, she owns you with it. The chemistry was explosive, the darkness intoxicating, and the twists had me gasping out loud. If you want a standalone that’s filthy, addictive, and unforgettable, King of Praise delivers it all.
Club Velvet #2? More like Club Velvet wrecked me.
September 16, 2025
Disclosure - I received this book as an ARC from the author.
King of Praise exceeded my expectations by a longshot. I loved the overall story line between the couple as well as the mafia plot in the back. The writing was very well done, especially in expressing the character's inner thoughts and feelings so clearly. The relationship was easy to root for and you felt everything the character's were feeling, the good and the bad. The plot was also easy to follow, the mafia storyline did not get too convoluted with all of the moving parts.
This book is the second in the Club Velvet Petal series but can be read as a standalone. The books follow different couples but the overall mafia plot does continue throughout the series. I did not read the first book in the series but I would recommend reading the books in order as the overall plot would make more sense. I was able to pick up on the mafia plot that had begun in the prior book, but I can see the usefulness in reading them in order to fully enjoy the story.
I would highly suggest checking the trigger warnings before reading, domestic violence plays a big role in the storyline (most off page). Otherwise there is general violence that is described at numerous different points in the story.
I am generally not interested in mafia based books, but this one really caught my attention. The overall plot centers Naomi and Micah. Naomi has killed her abusive husband, Lucas, in self defense and is now in hiding from fear of her ex-mother-in-law coming after her. Micah, Lucas' estranged father, had taken Naomi in when she initially left Lucas and has now begun protecting her and shifting the focus of Lucas' death elsewhere. Micah is apart of the Club Velvet Petal group that is continuing the previous mafia storyline from the previous novel.
As the book progresses and Naomi is working through the trauma she's endured and what she had to do, she starts to fall for Micah while he falls for her as well. The two wrestle with the taboo nature of their relationship - the age gap, he was her father-in-law, and the fact that she was the one who killed his son. As their relationship grows (almost like a slow burn), they find comfort in each other as the plot continues around them.
The scenes they share intimate moments together are both steamy and endearing with how Micah treats Naomi. The title "King of Praise" also plays into their relationship as Naomi has a praise kink and Micah is more than happy to oblige. The writing in these scenes really makes you wish you were in the scene yourself.
Overall, the book is very well written with a good plot. I look forward to reading the rest of the Club Velvet Petal series.
King of Praise exceeded my expectations by a longshot. I loved the overall story line between the couple as well as the mafia plot in the back. The writing was very well done, especially in expressing the character's inner thoughts and feelings so clearly. The relationship was easy to root for and you felt everything the character's were feeling, the good and the bad. The plot was also easy to follow, the mafia storyline did not get too convoluted with all of the moving parts.
This book is the second in the Club Velvet Petal series but can be read as a standalone. The books follow different couples but the overall mafia plot does continue throughout the series. I did not read the first book in the series but I would recommend reading the books in order as the overall plot would make more sense. I was able to pick up on the mafia plot that had begun in the prior book, but I can see the usefulness in reading them in order to fully enjoy the story.
I would highly suggest checking the trigger warnings before reading, domestic violence plays a big role in the storyline (most off page). Otherwise there is general violence that is described at numerous different points in the story.
I am generally not interested in mafia based books, but this one really caught my attention. The overall plot centers Naomi and Micah. Naomi has killed her abusive husband, Lucas, in self defense and is now in hiding from fear of her ex-mother-in-law coming after her. Micah, Lucas' estranged father, had taken Naomi in when she initially left Lucas and has now begun protecting her and shifting the focus of Lucas' death elsewhere. Micah is apart of the Club Velvet Petal group that is continuing the previous mafia storyline from the previous novel.
As the book progresses and Naomi is working through the trauma she's endured and what she had to do, she starts to fall for Micah while he falls for her as well. The two wrestle with the taboo nature of their relationship - the age gap, he was her father-in-law, and the fact that she was the one who killed his son. As their relationship grows (almost like a slow burn), they find comfort in each other as the plot continues around them.
The scenes they share intimate moments together are both steamy and endearing with how Micah treats Naomi. The title "King of Praise" also plays into their relationship as Naomi has a praise kink and Micah is more than happy to oblige. The writing in these scenes really makes you wish you were in the scene yourself.
Overall, the book is very well written with a good plot. I look forward to reading the rest of the Club Velvet Petal series.
September 14, 2025
thank you to grey’s promotions and aleia kane for providing me with an e-arc for review ✨
i am ridiculously sad that i didn’t like this more 😭 y’all know that i’m in my mafia era, i have been EATING UP a mafia man, and ya know… i do love a lil taboo here and there 🫢 so i was really excited to go into this one, and listen, it was good, i enjoyed it, i did. it had all the hallmarks that i often look for when picking out what i want to read—forced proximity, only one bed, tortured hero, survivor heroine, age gap, and that forbidden love ✨spice✨ but this one just… didn’t wow me.
i think the majority of it is that kane’s writing style just didn’t really work for me. it felt overly flowery at times, repeating the same sentiment over three or four sentences, when the first sentence already conveyed it perfectly. this happening a couple of times, i can understand as a tool—the emotion is important enough to the storyline that you really want to put a lot of emphasis on it. i get that! but when it’s happening in every internal monologue of both of our main characters, it just starts to get draining, and begins to feel like the author doesn’t trust the reader to pick up what they’re putting down.
but the mafia elements and the last 20% of this story? i wanted it served to me on a platter. i really did enjoy reading more about the inner workings of the mafia (in columbus, ohio of all places) and i liked that it contained actual mafia plot points, rather than just being a tool to make the mmc mysterious and dark and “ooh, he’ll definitely kill people,” ya know? i felt like i could tell you what this branch of the mafia stood for, what actions they had going at all times, and i really appreciated that.
also, maybe this is a me thing, but i expected more yearning, more slow burn tension of the will-they-won’t-they aspect i usually look for in those taboo categories. they got over it REAL fast. but like i said, that might be me looking for things that were never promised, and i try not to hold that against books. tbd if y’all think i do a good job of that or not 🫣
in summary,
— mafia plot points
— heroine re-discovering herself through sexuality
— healing love
— okay vibes
6/10 ✨
i am ridiculously sad that i didn’t like this more 😭 y’all know that i’m in my mafia era, i have been EATING UP a mafia man, and ya know… i do love a lil taboo here and there 🫢 so i was really excited to go into this one, and listen, it was good, i enjoyed it, i did. it had all the hallmarks that i often look for when picking out what i want to read—forced proximity, only one bed, tortured hero, survivor heroine, age gap, and that forbidden love ✨spice✨ but this one just… didn’t wow me.
i think the majority of it is that kane’s writing style just didn’t really work for me. it felt overly flowery at times, repeating the same sentiment over three or four sentences, when the first sentence already conveyed it perfectly. this happening a couple of times, i can understand as a tool—the emotion is important enough to the storyline that you really want to put a lot of emphasis on it. i get that! but when it’s happening in every internal monologue of both of our main characters, it just starts to get draining, and begins to feel like the author doesn’t trust the reader to pick up what they’re putting down.
but the mafia elements and the last 20% of this story? i wanted it served to me on a platter. i really did enjoy reading more about the inner workings of the mafia (in columbus, ohio of all places) and i liked that it contained actual mafia plot points, rather than just being a tool to make the mmc mysterious and dark and “ooh, he’ll definitely kill people,” ya know? i felt like i could tell you what this branch of the mafia stood for, what actions they had going at all times, and i really appreciated that.
also, maybe this is a me thing, but i expected more yearning, more slow burn tension of the will-they-won’t-they aspect i usually look for in those taboo categories. they got over it REAL fast. but like i said, that might be me looking for things that were never promised, and i try not to hold that against books. tbd if y’all think i do a good job of that or not 🫣
in summary,
— mafia plot points
— heroine re-discovering herself through sexuality
— healing love
— okay vibes
6/10 ✨
September 8, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
King of Praise is Book 2 in the Club Velvet Petal series, and while it’s my first read by Aleia Kane, it absolutely won’t be my last—I’ll be diving into Book 1 right away! 📚🔥
This story follows Naomi who was trapped in an abusive marriage 💔—until she fought back and ended it. Now, the last person she ever expected is protecting her: Micah —a powerful, dangerous man in the mafia 💀🖤… her now-deceased husband’s father.. And when Micah finds her shocked, bloodied and broken 😔, he doesn’t hesitate. He protects her, hides the evidence, takes her away to his remote cabin 🌲, and becomes the steady, protective force she’s never had 🛡️.
I loved this book! The plot and action had me hooked from page one. 📖 King of Praise is raw, emotional, and beautifully written. Naomi’s strength absolutely shines as she begins to heal and reclaim her power 💪and Micah? Total protective silver fox 🦊 vibes: dangerous, dominant, unexpectedly tender and with a filthy mouth 😏
The chemistry between them is off the charts🔥🔥🔥. The tension, the slow burn, the push and pull—it’s intense in the best way 😮💨. Their relationship is messy, forbidden, sweet, and so right. I was rooting for them every step of the way 💘.
Micah’s dominant side is never cruel—he’s patient, protective, respectful, and knows exactly how to handle Naomi’s heart ❤️🔥. The consensual submissive dynamic was handled with care and intention, highlighting the crucial difference between control and safety.
If you love:
Protective, possessive MMCs 🛡️
Age gap romance 👨🦳🧑
Mafia with heart 💼❤️
Emotional healing 🌅
Meaningful spice 🌶️
…this one needs to be on your TBR. Highly recommended! 🙌📚
‼️⚠️ Check TWs before reading.
📣 Thank You Grey's Promotions and Aleia Kane for the gifted eARC in exchange of my honest review!
#forcedproximitytrope #AgeGapRomance #toucheranddie #morallygreymmc #PossessiveMMC #exhusbandsdad #onlyonebed #angstytomance #darkromancereaders #mafiaromance #mafiabooks #kingofpraise #aleiakaneauthor #GreysPromo #arcreader #bookinfluencer
King of Praise is Book 2 in the Club Velvet Petal series, and while it’s my first read by Aleia Kane, it absolutely won’t be my last—I’ll be diving into Book 1 right away! 📚🔥
This story follows Naomi who was trapped in an abusive marriage 💔—until she fought back and ended it. Now, the last person she ever expected is protecting her: Micah —a powerful, dangerous man in the mafia 💀🖤… her now-deceased husband’s father.. And when Micah finds her shocked, bloodied and broken 😔, he doesn’t hesitate. He protects her, hides the evidence, takes her away to his remote cabin 🌲, and becomes the steady, protective force she’s never had 🛡️.
I loved this book! The plot and action had me hooked from page one. 📖 King of Praise is raw, emotional, and beautifully written. Naomi’s strength absolutely shines as she begins to heal and reclaim her power 💪and Micah? Total protective silver fox 🦊 vibes: dangerous, dominant, unexpectedly tender and with a filthy mouth 😏
The chemistry between them is off the charts🔥🔥🔥. The tension, the slow burn, the push and pull—it’s intense in the best way 😮💨. Their relationship is messy, forbidden, sweet, and so right. I was rooting for them every step of the way 💘.
Micah’s dominant side is never cruel—he’s patient, protective, respectful, and knows exactly how to handle Naomi’s heart ❤️🔥. The consensual submissive dynamic was handled with care and intention, highlighting the crucial difference between control and safety.
If you love:
Protective, possessive MMCs 🛡️
Age gap romance 👨🦳🧑
Mafia with heart 💼❤️
Emotional healing 🌅
Meaningful spice 🌶️
…this one needs to be on your TBR. Highly recommended! 🙌📚
‼️⚠️ Check TWs before reading.
📣 Thank You Grey's Promotions and Aleia Kane for the gifted eARC in exchange of my honest review!
#forcedproximitytrope #AgeGapRomance #toucheranddie #morallygreymmc #PossessiveMMC #exhusbandsdad #onlyonebed #angstytomance #darkromancereaders #mafiaromance #mafiabooks #kingofpraise #aleiakaneauthor #GreysPromo #arcreader #bookinfluencer
October 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5 stars)
King of Praise by Aleia Kane is the second instalment in the Club Velvet series, and it delivers—emotionally intense, protective hero, steamy D/S dynamic, and a survivor heroine you can’t help but root for.
Micah Hunt is the fixer, the enforcer, the man the King brothers rely on when things go south. At 54, after a failed marriage and a broken relationship with his son Lucas, he’s sworn off love. In his world, love is a liability.
Enter Naomi.
She’s 28. Lucas’s wife. And running from him. Lucas turned violent, controlling, and dangerous—until Naomi fought back and killed him in self-defence. With nowhere else to turn, she shows up at Micah’s doorstep.
Micah doesn’t hesitate—he protects her, hides her, and slowly helps her rebuild her life. What starts as a protective, almost reluctant guardianship becomes something deeper... something neither of them expected.
💥 Content Warning: Themes of domestic abuse, PTSD, and violence are handled with sensitivity.
Micah is the classic dominant alpha—but with Naomi, we see another side. He praises her, cherishes her, and truly worships her. I called it: he’s a golden retriever underneath all that gruff exterior, but only for her.
Naomi is a survivor in every sense. Watching her grow into herself again—with Micah’s support—was powerful and heartfelt. Their dynamic is rooted in trust, safety, and care. The spice? Very well done and meaningful to the story.
I highly recommend reading King of Power (Zeke & Evelyn’s story) first, since some plot lines carry over and add depth to this book. The series has that perfect blend of gritty family drama, heat, and emotional healing.
While I loved Micah and Naomi’s journey, some parts felt a little rushed or left me wanting more development—but overall, this was a gripping, addictive read that I couldn’t put down.
Aleia Kane, you’ve got me hooked. Fingers crossed we get Eli & Lydia next… or maybe Olivia & Sebastian?
Thank you to Aleia Kane and Grey's Promotion team for the ARC of King of Praise!!!
King of Praise by Aleia Kane is the second instalment in the Club Velvet series, and it delivers—emotionally intense, protective hero, steamy D/S dynamic, and a survivor heroine you can’t help but root for.
Micah Hunt is the fixer, the enforcer, the man the King brothers rely on when things go south. At 54, after a failed marriage and a broken relationship with his son Lucas, he’s sworn off love. In his world, love is a liability.
Enter Naomi.
She’s 28. Lucas’s wife. And running from him. Lucas turned violent, controlling, and dangerous—until Naomi fought back and killed him in self-defence. With nowhere else to turn, she shows up at Micah’s doorstep.
Micah doesn’t hesitate—he protects her, hides her, and slowly helps her rebuild her life. What starts as a protective, almost reluctant guardianship becomes something deeper... something neither of them expected.
💥 Content Warning: Themes of domestic abuse, PTSD, and violence are handled with sensitivity.
Micah is the classic dominant alpha—but with Naomi, we see another side. He praises her, cherishes her, and truly worships her. I called it: he’s a golden retriever underneath all that gruff exterior, but only for her.
Naomi is a survivor in every sense. Watching her grow into herself again—with Micah’s support—was powerful and heartfelt. Their dynamic is rooted in trust, safety, and care. The spice? Very well done and meaningful to the story.
I highly recommend reading King of Power (Zeke & Evelyn’s story) first, since some plot lines carry over and add depth to this book. The series has that perfect blend of gritty family drama, heat, and emotional healing.
While I loved Micah and Naomi’s journey, some parts felt a little rushed or left me wanting more development—but overall, this was a gripping, addictive read that I couldn’t put down.
Aleia Kane, you’ve got me hooked. Fingers crossed we get Eli & Lydia next… or maybe Olivia & Sebastian?
Thank you to Aleia Kane and Grey's Promotion team for the ARC of King of Praise!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2025
This book is about an abused woman, Naomi. Naomi was abused and ultimately attacked by her estranged husband. This is where the book takes a turn. Naomi sought refuge at her father in laws home, Micah. Micah recognized the abuse and helped Naomi. Micah keeps Naomi hidden away. Naomi's mother in law isn't so quick to forget what happened.
Micah works in the mafia world which further complicates staying hidden. Naomi and Micah are attracted to one another. Naomi finds safety, security, and acceptance from Micah. Naomi's love love language is cooking and taking care of Micah. In return, Micah protects and nurtures Naomi. It's almost like falling in love with a live in bodyguard who happens to be old enough to be your father, plus is truly your father in law. Naomi is 28 and Micah is 54. Naomi has a praise kink. Micah is a protective dom who also works at a "club".
Ultimately Micah respects Naomi unlike his son. Micah is nothing like his son, thank goodness. Micah built a wall around his heart after his divorce. Micah might be a dominant at the club but not into actual real relationships. Naomi might just be the gift Micah never knew he needed. Will Naomi choose the violence of Micah's world when she tried so hard to escape violence at the hands of Micah's son?
MEMORABLE QUOTES
"Mine, something primitive inside me growls. All mine to protect, to pleasure, and to praise."
"Yet here I am, fifty-four years old, holding this woman against my heart, understanding finally that love isn’t weakness but transformation."
"Show me how much you love me through complete dominance and praise.”
"But loving someone means wanting what’s best for them, and I’m not sure that’s me or the life I can offer.”
Thanks to Grey's Promotions and Aleia Kane for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Micah works in the mafia world which further complicates staying hidden. Naomi and Micah are attracted to one another. Naomi finds safety, security, and acceptance from Micah. Naomi's love love language is cooking and taking care of Micah. In return, Micah protects and nurtures Naomi. It's almost like falling in love with a live in bodyguard who happens to be old enough to be your father, plus is truly your father in law. Naomi is 28 and Micah is 54. Naomi has a praise kink. Micah is a protective dom who also works at a "club".
Ultimately Micah respects Naomi unlike his son. Micah is nothing like his son, thank goodness. Micah built a wall around his heart after his divorce. Micah might be a dominant at the club but not into actual real relationships. Naomi might just be the gift Micah never knew he needed. Will Naomi choose the violence of Micah's world when she tried so hard to escape violence at the hands of Micah's son?
MEMORABLE QUOTES
"Mine, something primitive inside me growls. All mine to protect, to pleasure, and to praise."
"Yet here I am, fifty-four years old, holding this woman against my heart, understanding finally that love isn’t weakness but transformation."
"Show me how much you love me through complete dominance and praise.”
"But loving someone means wanting what’s best for them, and I’m not sure that’s me or the life I can offer.”
Thanks to Grey's Promotions and Aleia Kane for the opportunity to read this ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2025
Micah and Noami 🥰
Micah Hunt is the enforcer, the fixer, the cleaner for the King’s brothers. He is the one you can trust in a world where trust means life or death. At 54, after a disastrous marriage to Sandra, a son Lucas who became estranged by his ex lies, love was a weakness, a way to make his life in the underworld, a liability. He swears to never love again. Until one day, Noami, 28, shows at his doorstep. She’s Lucas’s wife. Lucas is a monster. A violent man. Noami escaped from him to find safety in Micah life. But Lucas found her and killed him in safe defence. Micah will protected her no matter what. So he decided to hide her, to help her claim her life back. This started as a protective relationship but will it become more?
Second book in the Club Velvet series by Aleia Kane. I highly recommend to read the first book, King of Power with Zeke and Evelyn first because some plots are interconnected and will leave you guessing. So Micah… he is the epitome of the dominant character but with Noami, he is the one who praise her, take care of her, cherish and worship her. I even think he was a golden retriever kind of guy but only with Noami. I felt in love with him the second I met him in the previous book!!! And now? I love him unconditionally 🫠And Noami? After all that has happened to her, she’s a survivor. Her strength comes from Micah’s love and care. Really, this series got me so excited that I read both books in one sitting. Wasn’t able to stop. Congrats Aleia, hope to see Eli and Lydia next story. Maybe Olivia and Sebastian? Who knows!!! Im hooked!!! 5⭐️
Micah Hunt is the enforcer, the fixer, the cleaner for the King’s brothers. He is the one you can trust in a world where trust means life or death. At 54, after a disastrous marriage to Sandra, a son Lucas who became estranged by his ex lies, love was a weakness, a way to make his life in the underworld, a liability. He swears to never love again. Until one day, Noami, 28, shows at his doorstep. She’s Lucas’s wife. Lucas is a monster. A violent man. Noami escaped from him to find safety in Micah life. But Lucas found her and killed him in safe defence. Micah will protected her no matter what. So he decided to hide her, to help her claim her life back. This started as a protective relationship but will it become more?
Second book in the Club Velvet series by Aleia Kane. I highly recommend to read the first book, King of Power with Zeke and Evelyn first because some plots are interconnected and will leave you guessing. So Micah… he is the epitome of the dominant character but with Noami, he is the one who praise her, take care of her, cherish and worship her. I even think he was a golden retriever kind of guy but only with Noami. I felt in love with him the second I met him in the previous book!!! And now? I love him unconditionally 🫠And Noami? After all that has happened to her, she’s a survivor. Her strength comes from Micah’s love and care. Really, this series got me so excited that I read both books in one sitting. Wasn’t able to stop. Congrats Aleia, hope to see Eli and Lydia next story. Maybe Olivia and Sebastian? Who knows!!! Im hooked!!! 5⭐️
September 22, 2025
4 ⭐️ for King of Praise by Aleia Kane!
If I’m being honest, mafia romances are not typically something I go for. However, this one being age gap and ex husbands dad is what drew me right in and I have no regrets 😅
This follows a dual POV of our FMC Naomi, and our MMC Micah. Naomi has been in an abusive marriage and when she finally puts a “permanent” stop to it, Micah, her ex-husbands dad, provides her protection and safety. The chemistry and tension between these two is sooo good and had me hooked right away. Their story is one of healing, growing, and all the complex layers of their relationship. I loved how Micah was always there to protect Naomi without being overbearing or controlling. He gave her the space she needed to heal from her traumas and find herself again. There’s also the mafia plot line which I found to be easy enough to follow. This is a second book in a series of interconnected stand alone a so you don’t have to read them in order necessarily. There is of course conflict and some turn of events that were honestly predictable due to the nature of the story, but it was still good and made me want to keep reading up to the very end!
The other thing I love about this story was the setting. A cabin in the woods with one bed in the middle of the winter? Forced proximity? Yeah sign me up. Obviously this is a good read for anytime of the year but I feel like it would perfect on a snow day with a hot cup of chocolate.
Overall, I think if you’re looking to get into a mafia romance and also love tropes such as age gap, forced proximity, and forbidden love, I highly recommend Aleia Kane! King of Praise is available now!
Thank you to the author Aleia Kane and to Greys Promotions for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for my honest review!
If I’m being honest, mafia romances are not typically something I go for. However, this one being age gap and ex husbands dad is what drew me right in and I have no regrets 😅
This follows a dual POV of our FMC Naomi, and our MMC Micah. Naomi has been in an abusive marriage and when she finally puts a “permanent” stop to it, Micah, her ex-husbands dad, provides her protection and safety. The chemistry and tension between these two is sooo good and had me hooked right away. Their story is one of healing, growing, and all the complex layers of their relationship. I loved how Micah was always there to protect Naomi without being overbearing or controlling. He gave her the space she needed to heal from her traumas and find herself again. There’s also the mafia plot line which I found to be easy enough to follow. This is a second book in a series of interconnected stand alone a so you don’t have to read them in order necessarily. There is of course conflict and some turn of events that were honestly predictable due to the nature of the story, but it was still good and made me want to keep reading up to the very end!
The other thing I love about this story was the setting. A cabin in the woods with one bed in the middle of the winter? Forced proximity? Yeah sign me up. Obviously this is a good read for anytime of the year but I feel like it would perfect on a snow day with a hot cup of chocolate.
Overall, I think if you’re looking to get into a mafia romance and also love tropes such as age gap, forced proximity, and forbidden love, I highly recommend Aleia Kane! King of Praise is available now!
Thank you to the author Aleia Kane and to Greys Promotions for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for my honest review!
September 21, 2025
O.M.F.G! Aleia Kane 🧎♀️ You have me on my knees for your work, this couple, book, and all the characters 😩 Magnificent and magical! Micah and Naomi are everything I needed 🥹 Thank you so much for this ARC 🥹
Micah Hunt 🧎♀️ Sir, Daddy and Husband material 😩 That age gap too 🫦 Tall, handsome, intelligent, quiet, protective, morally grey, older 🧎♀️, touch her and die, rich, mafia enforcer, gentleman, dominant, in love with a fiery redhead 🥹 can't live without her, and always supports her 😩 Micah is literally everything. A dream and one of my favorite men! He comes across as broody and cold, but only to everyone who is not Naomi 🥹 He is there for her every step of the way and made me cry with how gentle and caring he is as she heals despite the taboo-ness of their relationship 😩
Naomi Hunt 😩 This Queen is one of the bravest women I know 🥹 I am in absolute awe of and incredibly happy for her 🥹 Beautiful, intelligent, brave, protective, rich, shy, fierce, an incredible baker, sub only for Micah, won't give this man up, fights with everything for herself and their future, adores her friends and won't back down 🧎♀️ Naomi's character is beautifully written and I was hooked onto every word🧎♀️My admiration for her strength, fight and fiercesness grew with every chapter! She is usually quiet, but when it's Micah, she knows she can share everything with him, and he will listen 🤭
The spice had me gasping and fanning myself 🫦 it was that good, and so so, hawt! The chemistry, tension, angst, and yearning had me on my knees since chapter one. The writing, characters, storyline, and setting are incredible. you have to read this series, I can't wait for book 3 🫦
Micah Hunt 🧎♀️ Sir, Daddy and Husband material 😩 That age gap too 🫦 Tall, handsome, intelligent, quiet, protective, morally grey, older 🧎♀️, touch her and die, rich, mafia enforcer, gentleman, dominant, in love with a fiery redhead 🥹 can't live without her, and always supports her 😩 Micah is literally everything. A dream and one of my favorite men! He comes across as broody and cold, but only to everyone who is not Naomi 🥹 He is there for her every step of the way and made me cry with how gentle and caring he is as she heals despite the taboo-ness of their relationship 😩
Naomi Hunt 😩 This Queen is one of the bravest women I know 🥹 I am in absolute awe of and incredibly happy for her 🥹 Beautiful, intelligent, brave, protective, rich, shy, fierce, an incredible baker, sub only for Micah, won't give this man up, fights with everything for herself and their future, adores her friends and won't back down 🧎♀️ Naomi's character is beautifully written and I was hooked onto every word🧎♀️My admiration for her strength, fight and fiercesness grew with every chapter! She is usually quiet, but when it's Micah, she knows she can share everything with him, and he will listen 🤭
The spice had me gasping and fanning myself 🫦 it was that good, and so so, hawt! The chemistry, tension, angst, and yearning had me on my knees since chapter one. The writing, characters, storyline, and setting are incredible. you have to read this series, I can't wait for book 3 🫦
September 10, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Loved Naomi and Micah’s story!! The chemistry that builds between them was so good!!! And omg the spice was delicious!! Absolutely 100% recommend reading!!
Naomi is forced into hiding from her husband that has abused her for years. She seeks refuge and protection from her father-in-law, however when her ex finds her, she’s forced to either protect herself or die at his hands. When Micah comes home to find his son dead, and Naomi covered in blood, he knows that he has to protect herself at all costs, and to do that, he has to hide her away! Micah takes Naomi to a secluded cabin in the woods to keep her safe. While hiding out, they begin to develop feelings for each other. But those feelings bring added danger!!
This book continues the world of the Velvet Petal, but could be read as a standalone, but I’d definitely recommend reading book 1 (King of Power) first!!
🖤 Taboo Romance
💜 Age gap
🖤 Mafia Ties
💜 Forced Proximity
🖤 Only One Bed
💜 Morally Grey Hero
🖤 Touch Her and Die
💜 Strong Heroine, Protective Hero
🖤 Ex-husband’s Dad
“I’ve got you,” I whisper again. A vow. A promise. A declaration of war against anyone who tries to hurt her.
“You’re lovely,” he says quietly, his deep voice rumbling in the small space. “You should have been cherished, not beaten.”
“Go ahead, lovely. Show me how good you can be.”
The boundaries between protector and protected, dominant and submissive, blur into something simpler but infinitely more complex — two broken people finding wholeness in each other’s arms.
Loved Naomi and Micah’s story!! The chemistry that builds between them was so good!!! And omg the spice was delicious!! Absolutely 100% recommend reading!!
Naomi is forced into hiding from her husband that has abused her for years. She seeks refuge and protection from her father-in-law, however when her ex finds her, she’s forced to either protect herself or die at his hands. When Micah comes home to find his son dead, and Naomi covered in blood, he knows that he has to protect herself at all costs, and to do that, he has to hide her away! Micah takes Naomi to a secluded cabin in the woods to keep her safe. While hiding out, they begin to develop feelings for each other. But those feelings bring added danger!!
This book continues the world of the Velvet Petal, but could be read as a standalone, but I’d definitely recommend reading book 1 (King of Power) first!!
🖤 Taboo Romance
💜 Age gap
🖤 Mafia Ties
💜 Forced Proximity
🖤 Only One Bed
💜 Morally Grey Hero
🖤 Touch Her and Die
💜 Strong Heroine, Protective Hero
🖤 Ex-husband’s Dad
“I’ve got you,” I whisper again. A vow. A promise. A declaration of war against anyone who tries to hurt her.
“You’re lovely,” he says quietly, his deep voice rumbling in the small space. “You should have been cherished, not beaten.”
“Go ahead, lovely. Show me how good you can be.”
The boundaries between protector and protected, dominant and submissive, blur into something simpler but infinitely more complex — two broken people finding wholeness in each other’s arms.
September 13, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
King of Praise is book 2 in the Club Velvet Petal Series by Aleia Kane. This was my first read by Aleia Kane and I promise it will not be my last. I loved this book and these characters and I cannot wait to dive into book 1 now that I’ve finished book 2.
5⭐️ 4🌶️
🖤age gap
🖤mafia romance/mafia ties
🖤forced proximity
🖤only one bed
🖤strong heroine/protective hero
This story follows the amazing strength of Naomi who is trapped in an abusive marriage. One day when her husband Lucas shows up outraged that she’s been hiding from him, Naomi’s fight or flight instincts kick in and she ends years of abuse she’s had at the hands of her husband.
Enter Micha, tall, dark, handsome, dangerous oh and did I forget to mention he’s in the mafia AND her father in law. He finds Naomi covered in blood and broken and he doesn’t once hesitate. He washes the blood from her hands and hair and hides evidence to protect her.
I loved this book and the relationship between Micha and Naomi and the push and pull between them. This was a slow burn but I was along for the ride. Their relationship was messy and forbidden and Micha was so sweet and tender with her and so incredibly protective of her.
King of Praise is a must read and should be on your TBR list! I highly recommend it. ✨Please check your trigger warnings.✨ Thank you Grey’s Promotions and author Aleia Kane for this opportunity to read this eARC. King of Praise releasing September 16, 2025
#DarkRomance #RomanticSuspense #MafiaRomance #TouchHerandDie #ForcedProximity #ForbiddenLove
King of Praise is book 2 in the Club Velvet Petal Series by Aleia Kane. This was my first read by Aleia Kane and I promise it will not be my last. I loved this book and these characters and I cannot wait to dive into book 1 now that I’ve finished book 2.
5⭐️ 4🌶️
🖤age gap
🖤mafia romance/mafia ties
🖤forced proximity
🖤only one bed
🖤strong heroine/protective hero
This story follows the amazing strength of Naomi who is trapped in an abusive marriage. One day when her husband Lucas shows up outraged that she’s been hiding from him, Naomi’s fight or flight instincts kick in and she ends years of abuse she’s had at the hands of her husband.
Enter Micha, tall, dark, handsome, dangerous oh and did I forget to mention he’s in the mafia AND her father in law. He finds Naomi covered in blood and broken and he doesn’t once hesitate. He washes the blood from her hands and hair and hides evidence to protect her.
I loved this book and the relationship between Micha and Naomi and the push and pull between them. This was a slow burn but I was along for the ride. Their relationship was messy and forbidden and Micha was so sweet and tender with her and so incredibly protective of her.
King of Praise is a must read and should be on your TBR list! I highly recommend it. ✨Please check your trigger warnings.✨ Thank you Grey’s Promotions and author Aleia Kane for this opportunity to read this eARC. King of Praise releasing September 16, 2025
#DarkRomance #RomanticSuspense #MafiaRomance #TouchHerandDie #ForcedProximity #ForbiddenLove
September 15, 2025
The second book in the Club Velvet Petal series and King of Praise was an age gap romance with a strong vibe of the taboo as abused wife Naomi falls for her silver fox of a father-in-law, the morally grey Micah, a man with strong mob ties. The development of their relationship was slow burn, despite his attraction for Naomi, Micah knew what she’d gone through at his son’s hands and just wanted to protect her and keep her safe especially with his son’s mother on the warpath determined to find out what had really happened. Naomi also had a lot to come to terms with but she wasn’t a victim, she was a survivor who had done what she had to, to survive and now she was ready to take back her life. With Micah, possibly for the first time in her life she felt safe.
Aleia Kane has once again written a gripping plot that grabs your attention from beginning to end. Micah and Naomi’s story was emotional and beautifully written as, hidden away in a remote cabin, they found themselves drawn together despite the large age gap between them not forgetting familial ties. King of Praise was one page turning read filled with drama, suspense, and steam. I appreciated the strong female lead in Naomi and the emotional journey she was on. I also appreciated that the size of the age gap, between the hero and heroine in this case nearly thirty years, was also one that is worthy of the trope. As the second book in a dark mafia romance series of interconnected standalones with an underlying plot that arcs over the series I’d recommend reading these books in release order.
Aleia Kane has once again written a gripping plot that grabs your attention from beginning to end. Micah and Naomi’s story was emotional and beautifully written as, hidden away in a remote cabin, they found themselves drawn together despite the large age gap between them not forgetting familial ties. King of Praise was one page turning read filled with drama, suspense, and steam. I appreciated the strong female lead in Naomi and the emotional journey she was on. I also appreciated that the size of the age gap, between the hero and heroine in this case nearly thirty years, was also one that is worthy of the trope. As the second book in a dark mafia romance series of interconnected standalones with an underlying plot that arcs over the series I’d recommend reading these books in release order.
September 16, 2025
King of Praise Review
Rate: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
Tropes:
Taboo Romance
Age Gap
Mafia Ties
Forced Proximity
Only One Bed
Morally Grey Hero
Touch her and Die
Strong Heroine, protective hero
Ex-Husband's Dad
It’s my first read by Aleia Kane but it won’t be my last!
The Plot, the characters, the atmosphere! everything caught me right away! This book would definitely have to be the biggest age gap that I've read that's for sure but no complaints here!
Naomi definitely caught my attention straight away! She's strong, resilient, independent and after years of abuse from the hands of her husband, she finally had enough when she had to protect herself and fight against him, finally ending years of suffering.
Word's can not begin to describe how I feel about Micah, this man is the whole package. He's tall, handsome, dangerous, in the mafia and oh yes! Her FATHER IN LAW TOO. Despite all that, he protected her, was patient with her, and always knew exactly how to handle her heart, mind and body! This man was crazy about her and I couldn't get over it!
I really like the D/s dynamic between them both too! ! Their relationship in general is perfect!
it's messy AND forbidden but perfect and I can't wait to dive into book 1 right away!
#forcedproximity #AgeGapRomance #toucheranddie #morallygreymmc #PossessiveMMC #exhusbandsdad #onlyonebed #angstytomance #darkromancereaders #mafiaromance #mafiabooks #kingofpraise #aleiakaneauthor #GreysPromo #arcreader #bookinfluencer
Rate: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
Tropes:
Taboo Romance
Age Gap
Mafia Ties
Forced Proximity
Only One Bed
Morally Grey Hero
Touch her and Die
Strong Heroine, protective hero
Ex-Husband's Dad
It’s my first read by Aleia Kane but it won’t be my last!
The Plot, the characters, the atmosphere! everything caught me right away! This book would definitely have to be the biggest age gap that I've read that's for sure but no complaints here!
Naomi definitely caught my attention straight away! She's strong, resilient, independent and after years of abuse from the hands of her husband, she finally had enough when she had to protect herself and fight against him, finally ending years of suffering.
Word's can not begin to describe how I feel about Micah, this man is the whole package. He's tall, handsome, dangerous, in the mafia and oh yes! Her FATHER IN LAW TOO. Despite all that, he protected her, was patient with her, and always knew exactly how to handle her heart, mind and body! This man was crazy about her and I couldn't get over it!
I really like the D/s dynamic between them both too! ! Their relationship in general is perfect!
it's messy AND forbidden but perfect and I can't wait to dive into book 1 right away!
#forcedproximity #AgeGapRomance #toucheranddie #morallygreymmc #PossessiveMMC #exhusbandsdad #onlyonebed #angstytomance #darkromancereaders #mafiaromance #mafiabooks #kingofpraise #aleiakaneauthor #GreysPromo #arcreader #bookinfluencer
September 8, 2025
ARC review King of praise
Coming: September 16th
Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐4.5
"Because I see you, Naomi. The real you, not the scared woman Lucas tried to create. I see your strength, your resilience. You're a survivor."
Tropes:
Age gap (±26 years)
Only one bed
Ex husband's dad
Forced proximity
Strong heroine and protective hero
One of my favorite tropes out there is a good age gap romance and let me tell you that this book did not dissapoint on that trope and so much more!.
I absolutely love the first book in this series and when I read the snippets of Micha and Naomi I immediately knew I had to read this book and that it was gonna be FIREEE!!. It's such a strong and enjoyable storyline, you can really see Naomi's strength and resilience and it's SO admirable. She is such a strong woman and I love reading that in books, where the FMC had to take care of herself for so long but then she lets it go and the MMC cares for her.
I FELLL for micha SO hard, omg the man her is!!. The way he protects her and takes care of her with such gentleness. And OMG the TENSION in the beginning where they deny their attraction and feeling, it was so GOOD!.
Overall I absolutely fell in love with these characters and this story, and with that also with Aleia's writing!. I will definitely be keeping an close eye out for more of her books!.
Thank you so much Grey's Promotions and Aleia for letting me read this book in advance!. And if you're like me an age gap LOVER than King of Praise is a book you should definitely read!. King of praise comes out September 16th.
Coming: September 16th
Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐4.5
"Because I see you, Naomi. The real you, not the scared woman Lucas tried to create. I see your strength, your resilience. You're a survivor."
Tropes:
Age gap (±26 years)
Only one bed
Ex husband's dad
Forced proximity
Strong heroine and protective hero
One of my favorite tropes out there is a good age gap romance and let me tell you that this book did not dissapoint on that trope and so much more!.
I absolutely love the first book in this series and when I read the snippets of Micha and Naomi I immediately knew I had to read this book and that it was gonna be FIREEE!!. It's such a strong and enjoyable storyline, you can really see Naomi's strength and resilience and it's SO admirable. She is such a strong woman and I love reading that in books, where the FMC had to take care of herself for so long but then she lets it go and the MMC cares for her.
I FELLL for micha SO hard, omg the man her is!!. The way he protects her and takes care of her with such gentleness. And OMG the TENSION in the beginning where they deny their attraction and feeling, it was so GOOD!.
Overall I absolutely fell in love with these characters and this story, and with that also with Aleia's writing!. I will definitely be keeping an close eye out for more of her books!.
Thank you so much Grey's Promotions and Aleia for letting me read this book in advance!. And if you're like me an age gap LOVER than King of Praise is a book you should definitely read!. King of praise comes out September 16th.
September 15, 2025
Arc review.💋🖤
This is the second book in the Club Velvet Petal series.💋🖤
I want to thank G.P & Aleia for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.💋🖤
I absolutely adored this book so much, the whole dynamic of this story was over the top perfection. The tropes in this book was deliciously addictive. The characters, the way they bonded together and craved each other was amazing. Micah, my love.💋🖤 I’ll forever love that man. Everything is says is so beautiful and it made my heart melt completely. He knows and shows the true beauty of taking care and showing his love for Naomi, THE WAY HE PROTECTS HER. OH MY LORD.🧎🏻♀️💋 Micah is someone to not mess with, and I love how strong, soft and gentle he is with Naomi.💋🖤 He has my whole heart♥️
Naomi is such a sweetheart too. She learned how to heal, how to become stronger, feel safe. You can imagine the way she had to endure all of that trauma and pain from her ex-husband. BUT THE WAY MICAH SHOWED HER WHAT REAL LOVE IS.🖤🖤🖤🖤 They both deserve each other.💋
The tension between the characters was too good. The way they collided and fit in together, the chemistry, the romance, the character development, the forbidden love that felt so right, THE PRAISE.💋💋 Everything was beyond perfect. The way this book was written was so beautiful and powerful.💋🖤
Overall, I really enjoyed this story so much. Thank you, babes. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. And what you have next.💋🖤
This is the second book in the Club Velvet Petal series.💋🖤
I want to thank G.P & Aleia for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.💋🖤
I absolutely adored this book so much, the whole dynamic of this story was over the top perfection. The tropes in this book was deliciously addictive. The characters, the way they bonded together and craved each other was amazing. Micah, my love.💋🖤 I’ll forever love that man. Everything is says is so beautiful and it made my heart melt completely. He knows and shows the true beauty of taking care and showing his love for Naomi, THE WAY HE PROTECTS HER. OH MY LORD.🧎🏻♀️💋 Micah is someone to not mess with, and I love how strong, soft and gentle he is with Naomi.💋🖤 He has my whole heart♥️
Naomi is such a sweetheart too. She learned how to heal, how to become stronger, feel safe. You can imagine the way she had to endure all of that trauma and pain from her ex-husband. BUT THE WAY MICAH SHOWED HER WHAT REAL LOVE IS.🖤🖤🖤🖤 They both deserve each other.💋
The tension between the characters was too good. The way they collided and fit in together, the chemistry, the romance, the character development, the forbidden love that felt so right, THE PRAISE.💋💋 Everything was beyond perfect. The way this book was written was so beautiful and powerful.💋🖤
Overall, I really enjoyed this story so much. Thank you, babes. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. And what you have next.💋🖤
September 19, 2025
Let me be worthy of her trust. Let me be strong enough to protect this precious thing growing between us. Let me be enough.
💜💜💜💜💜
💜Age Gap
💜Mafia
💜D/s
💜DV Survivor
💜Forced Proximity
💜Ex's Dad
💜Touch Her and Die
💜💜💜💜💜
3.5 Rounded Up
The story opens after the final attack from Naomi's ex, Lucas, and his final moments. She is in complete shock with everything and worried about how Micah will react. Luckily his reaction is perfect in not blaming her for protecting herself. Lucas was just as toxic as his mother.
From here, he takes her out of town for protection until any heat goes away, but he is constantly leaving her alone for family business as there is escalating drama with other families as well as Lucas' mother. While they are together, they lean into a new normal and find a dynamic that works for both of them. Naomi also has to work through her traumas while being kept on a tight leash.
King of Praise is definitely an appropriate title as that's what she needs in their D/s dynamic and he's more than willing to give it. These scenes are most definitely steamy.
This was my first Aleia Kane book, and I'm hopeful for future books...but we shall see. While I liked the overall story of Naomi & Micah, things felt rushed in some areas & unclear in others. I may give the first book of the series a chance and see if it's the same.
Thank you to Greys Promo for the ARC on this one.
💜💜💜💜💜
💜Age Gap
💜Mafia
💜D/s
💜DV Survivor
💜Forced Proximity
💜Ex's Dad
💜Touch Her and Die
💜💜💜💜💜
3.5 Rounded Up
The story opens after the final attack from Naomi's ex, Lucas, and his final moments. She is in complete shock with everything and worried about how Micah will react. Luckily his reaction is perfect in not blaming her for protecting herself. Lucas was just as toxic as his mother.
From here, he takes her out of town for protection until any heat goes away, but he is constantly leaving her alone for family business as there is escalating drama with other families as well as Lucas' mother. While they are together, they lean into a new normal and find a dynamic that works for both of them. Naomi also has to work through her traumas while being kept on a tight leash.
King of Praise is definitely an appropriate title as that's what she needs in their D/s dynamic and he's more than willing to give it. These scenes are most definitely steamy.
This was my first Aleia Kane book, and I'm hopeful for future books...but we shall see. While I liked the overall story of Naomi & Micah, things felt rushed in some areas & unclear in others. I may give the first book of the series a chance and see if it's the same.
Thank you to Greys Promo for the ARC on this one.
September 4, 2025
4.5/5
3/5 🌶
We get a protective, strong, and s3xy silver fox in enforcer Micah that will leave you wanting more of him! I loved the balance of seeing his mafia dealings whilst he works through the angsty feelings for his son's ex (who's 26 years younger than him). The opposite of his abusive son, Micah is old school, gentlemanly, but does have a dom side as things heat up with Naomi.
There's lovely moments of tension and of his coming to grips with this attraction he feels that's forbidden and against societal norms. Naomi has been beaten down by his son, but Micah lifts her back up and she regains more of herself piece by piece through him. And she brings a sense of love, warmth, and home that he's never had.
For me personally, I admit to speeding past the spice scenes because the praise began to sound repetitive and familiar. I kind of felt the dom version of Micah came out a bit fast . That aside, this could be a me thing and I still really liked this book and love Micah!
There's solid suspense and I loved the angst! Naomi really tries to understand him and his place in the Mafia world, not wanting to change who he is.
And he's amazing, capable, smart, and respectful of this healing woman that shows him unconditional love. A very easy reccomended entry for those that want a forbidden mafia romance with suspense!
3/5 🌶
We get a protective, strong, and s3xy silver fox in enforcer Micah that will leave you wanting more of him! I loved the balance of seeing his mafia dealings whilst he works through the angsty feelings for his son's ex (who's 26 years younger than him). The opposite of his abusive son, Micah is old school, gentlemanly, but does have a dom side as things heat up with Naomi.
There's lovely moments of tension and of his coming to grips with this attraction he feels that's forbidden and against societal norms. Naomi has been beaten down by his son, but Micah lifts her back up and she regains more of herself piece by piece through him. And she brings a sense of love, warmth, and home that he's never had.
For me personally, I admit to speeding past the spice scenes because the praise began to sound repetitive and familiar. I kind of felt the dom version of Micah came out a bit fast . That aside, this could be a me thing and I still really liked this book and love Micah!
There's solid suspense and I loved the angst! Naomi really tries to understand him and his place in the Mafia world, not wanting to change who he is.
And he's amazing, capable, smart, and respectful of this healing woman that shows him unconditional love. A very easy reccomended entry for those that want a forbidden mafia romance with suspense!
September 6, 2025
Naomi leaves Lucas her abusive husband. She is being offered sanctuary away from her violent ex by her father-in-law Micah, at his apartment. Lucas finds her and breaks in, and it becomes a battle between Naomi and Lucas. Naomi wins. Micah takes her to his safe house that no one knows about. His cottage sanctuary is situated in the middle of nowhere to keep her safe. He calls upon his mafia family to sort out the scene back at his apartment and help to forge an alternative to what really happened. That done, Micah needs to protect Naomi from the fallout from her actions. Especially when his ex Sandra, starts sniffing around, blaming Naomi for Lucas's death since she doesn't believe the investigation's truth of what happened to her son. But are they safe, and are there other factions at work against Micah and his mafia family? Aleia gives you all the feels with the pudh pull relationship between Micah and Naomi.
I received an arc for my voluntary honest review for Naughty Nightie Book Blog. If you love a slow-burning age gap, forbidden steamy mafia romance, then you will love this read. Please be warned that this book may not be for everyone. Therefore, please check the author's trigger warnings before reading or purchasing. Although this is Book Two in the Club Velvet Petal Series, it can be read as a standalone.
I received an arc for my voluntary honest review for Naughty Nightie Book Blog. If you love a slow-burning age gap, forbidden steamy mafia romance, then you will love this read. Please be warned that this book may not be for everyone. Therefore, please check the author's trigger warnings before reading or purchasing. Although this is Book Two in the Club Velvet Petal Series, it can be read as a standalone.
September 16, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Micah and Naomi. This is a taboo age gap romance. Naomi is 26 and has been in an abusive relationship for a while. She knows that she has to get out of things could get even more out of had and she could lose her life. She is certainly a fighter and is fighting for her freedom now. She is putting an end to this and knows that she will have to leave the life she has and where she is basically go on the run to stay safe. However, she now has a protector and that protector is the last person on earth she ever thought would help her. Micah, is a Mafia man. He is powerful and has connection but is also the father of the man who has been abusing her. When he finds her shocked, and broken he never hesitates for one second to help her. He is going to protect her and hide her and the evidence and take her to a remote cabin. He is also going to show her what a protective man can be like. This book is not super long but it really feels like you get a whole long book while your reading this one. I loved that Micah was smart enough to know that his son was wrong and not just automatically protect his son. This book will have you one the edge of your seat and rooting for Naomi to get the happy life she has always deserved.
This is the story of Micah and Naomi. This is a taboo age gap romance. Naomi is 26 and has been in an abusive relationship for a while. She knows that she has to get out of things could get even more out of had and she could lose her life. She is certainly a fighter and is fighting for her freedom now. She is putting an end to this and knows that she will have to leave the life she has and where she is basically go on the run to stay safe. However, she now has a protector and that protector is the last person on earth she ever thought would help her. Micah, is a Mafia man. He is powerful and has connection but is also the father of the man who has been abusing her. When he finds her shocked, and broken he never hesitates for one second to help her. He is going to protect her and hide her and the evidence and take her to a remote cabin. He is also going to show her what a protective man can be like. This book is not super long but it really feels like you get a whole long book while your reading this one. I loved that Micah was smart enough to know that his son was wrong and not just automatically protect his son. This book will have you one the edge of your seat and rooting for Naomi to get the happy life she has always deserved.
September 16, 2025
3.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I had a lot of fun with King of Praise! But I have to admit it didn’t hit me quite as hard as the first book in the series did…
Micah is such a protective, strong, and genuinely caring man and I really loved how he never made Naomi feel ashamed for the choices she had to make. He constantly chooses her, protects her, and gives her a safe space to heal and feel loved which made their relationship feel real!
That said, some aspects didn’t work for me. Like the first book, the mafia angle didn’t feel entirely believable. Micah supposedly not in the mafia but works for Zeke who clearly is forming his own version of a mafia. Also, their actions and meetings still clearly show they’re very much a part of the mafia. I also wasn’t as into the kink scenes this time, which surprised me because I usually eat up those tropes.
Even with those things I still enjoyed the story! Naomi’s strength and resilience shine through and the tension and chemistry between her and Micah kept me hooked! I think fans of the first book and anyone who loves a spicy, protective silver fox with a strong, and a healing romance will enjoy this one!
***I received this eARC for free for my honest review from Grey’s Promotions the author Aleia Kane. Thank you for this opportunity! All opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
I had a lot of fun with King of Praise! But I have to admit it didn’t hit me quite as hard as the first book in the series did…
Micah is such a protective, strong, and genuinely caring man and I really loved how he never made Naomi feel ashamed for the choices she had to make. He constantly chooses her, protects her, and gives her a safe space to heal and feel loved which made their relationship feel real!
That said, some aspects didn’t work for me. Like the first book, the mafia angle didn’t feel entirely believable. Micah supposedly not in the mafia but works for Zeke who clearly is forming his own version of a mafia. Also, their actions and meetings still clearly show they’re very much a part of the mafia. I also wasn’t as into the kink scenes this time, which surprised me because I usually eat up those tropes.
Even with those things I still enjoyed the story! Naomi’s strength and resilience shine through and the tension and chemistry between her and Micah kept me hooked! I think fans of the first book and anyone who loves a spicy, protective silver fox with a strong, and a healing romance will enjoy this one!
***I received this eARC for free for my honest review from Grey’s Promotions the author Aleia Kane. Thank you for this opportunity! All opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
September 15, 2025
🔥 Run, don’t walk: a forbidden romance that sizzles and soothes 🔥
4.5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Aleia Kane has officially done it again with King of Praise, the second installment in her Club Velvet Petal series. This dark, taboo, age-gap mafia romance grabs you by the throat from the very first page and doesn’t let go, and I loved every breathless second of it.
Naomi is a survivor in every sense of the word. After finally ending her cycle of abuse in the most permanent way possible, she’s not running alone. She’s running with her father-in-law. Enter Micah Hunt: fifty-four, fiercely protective, morally gray, and so quietly dominant he’ll have you swooning by chapter two. He’s not just the silver fox of your dreams; he’s the storm, the shelter, and the slow burn you didn’t know you needed.
Forced into close quarters, Naomi and Micah’s connection crackles with forbidden tension and aching vulnerability. This is more than just spice (though yes, the spice is perfection; a solid 3-chili rating from me): it’s emotional, angsty, and deeply intimate. Micah is the ultimate “touch her and 💀 ” hero, and Naomi’s strength is breathtaking as she reclaims her life and desires.
While I devoured the story and gave it a strong 4.5 stars, I’ll admit: the pet name “lovely” wasn’t really for me. But honestly? That’s a tiny blip in a romance that had me tearing through pages, heart in my throat and a grin on my face.
If you love protective anti-heroes, forbidden love with real emotional weight, and spice that builds instead of overwhelms: run, don’t walk to grab this book. Just make sure you read Book 1 first to fully enjoy the layered mafia plotline (which is still building and so worth the ride).
Thank you to Grey’s Promotion for the e-ARC, and huge congrats to Aleia Kane on this upcoming release. Wishing you all the success in the world on September 16th! 🖤
4.5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Aleia Kane has officially done it again with King of Praise, the second installment in her Club Velvet Petal series. This dark, taboo, age-gap mafia romance grabs you by the throat from the very first page and doesn’t let go, and I loved every breathless second of it.
Naomi is a survivor in every sense of the word. After finally ending her cycle of abuse in the most permanent way possible, she’s not running alone. She’s running with her father-in-law. Enter Micah Hunt: fifty-four, fiercely protective, morally gray, and so quietly dominant he’ll have you swooning by chapter two. He’s not just the silver fox of your dreams; he’s the storm, the shelter, and the slow burn you didn’t know you needed.
Forced into close quarters, Naomi and Micah’s connection crackles with forbidden tension and aching vulnerability. This is more than just spice (though yes, the spice is perfection; a solid 3-chili rating from me): it’s emotional, angsty, and deeply intimate. Micah is the ultimate “touch her and 💀 ” hero, and Naomi’s strength is breathtaking as she reclaims her life and desires.
While I devoured the story and gave it a strong 4.5 stars, I’ll admit: the pet name “lovely” wasn’t really for me. But honestly? That’s a tiny blip in a romance that had me tearing through pages, heart in my throat and a grin on my face.
If you love protective anti-heroes, forbidden love with real emotional weight, and spice that builds instead of overwhelms: run, don’t walk to grab this book. Just make sure you read Book 1 first to fully enjoy the layered mafia plotline (which is still building and so worth the ride).
Thank you to Grey’s Promotion for the e-ARC, and huge congrats to Aleia Kane on this upcoming release. Wishing you all the success in the world on September 16th! 🖤
September 16, 2025
King of Praise, the second book in the Club Velvet Petal series is dark romance, complicated, slow-burn yet explosive relationship between Micah and Naomi.
Naomi has been broken down by abuse, manipulation, and betrayal. She has multiple issues with trust, intimacy and her own worth. Micah, on the other hand, is the kind of man who’s seen the worst of the world and survived it, he’s also Naomi’s dead husband’s father.
Naomi, trying to rebuild her life is torn between wanting independence and the weight of her past. Micah, a man who embodies both danger and devotion is powerful, dominant, but ruthless when it comes to protecting what’s his. Two people with haunted pasts and fragile hopes, but when their paths meet, the connection is undeniable. When Naomi’s past resurfaces, threatening to drag her backwards, she considers walking away but, Micah refuses to let her go. Micah pushes Naomi to face her fears, while Naomi forces Micah to confront the demons he’s buried
King of Praise is an emotional dark romance with control, redemption and vulnerability all playing a part. Micah and Naomi’s story is both bruising and beautiful, a journey of breaking chains, healing and learning to accept love.
Naomi has been broken down by abuse, manipulation, and betrayal. She has multiple issues with trust, intimacy and her own worth. Micah, on the other hand, is the kind of man who’s seen the worst of the world and survived it, he’s also Naomi’s dead husband’s father.
Naomi, trying to rebuild her life is torn between wanting independence and the weight of her past. Micah, a man who embodies both danger and devotion is powerful, dominant, but ruthless when it comes to protecting what’s his. Two people with haunted pasts and fragile hopes, but when their paths meet, the connection is undeniable. When Naomi’s past resurfaces, threatening to drag her backwards, she considers walking away but, Micah refuses to let her go. Micah pushes Naomi to face her fears, while Naomi forces Micah to confront the demons he’s buried
King of Praise is an emotional dark romance with control, redemption and vulnerability all playing a part. Micah and Naomi’s story is both bruising and beautiful, a journey of breaking chains, healing and learning to accept love.
September 16, 2025
Disclaimer: I read King of Praise as an eARC
I loved every minute of reading this book. From the beginning, I was hooked. I'm not a huge fan of women staying in abusive marriages, but Naomi got out and right into her father-in-law's apartment. Her ex-husband found her, and she put an end to his abuse.
I love the chemistry between Naomi and Micah. They try to deny it as long as they can until they can't. Once they realize there's no denying their attraction, a beautiful love emerges. He will do anything in his power to protect her. If anything were to happen to her, he would kill and die for her.
With alternating POVs, we can see their relationship emerge. It was slow-paced for me, but I didn't want the book to end. There is a huge betrayal, but it does not come from the MCs, as well as an ex-wife who wants her son's death avenged.
This is the fourth mafia romance book I've read, and it is in my top 3 mafia romances
If you love age-gap romances with a morally gray MMC, where they are staying together in a cabin with one bed, this book is right for you. And if you love reading mafia romances. I highly recommend reading this book after reading the first book in the series, King of Power. I definitely will be reading more books by Aleia Kane
I loved every minute of reading this book. From the beginning, I was hooked. I'm not a huge fan of women staying in abusive marriages, but Naomi got out and right into her father-in-law's apartment. Her ex-husband found her, and she put an end to his abuse.
I love the chemistry between Naomi and Micah. They try to deny it as long as they can until they can't. Once they realize there's no denying their attraction, a beautiful love emerges. He will do anything in his power to protect her. If anything were to happen to her, he would kill and die for her.
With alternating POVs, we can see their relationship emerge. It was slow-paced for me, but I didn't want the book to end. There is a huge betrayal, but it does not come from the MCs, as well as an ex-wife who wants her son's death avenged.
This is the fourth mafia romance book I've read, and it is in my top 3 mafia romances
If you love age-gap romances with a morally gray MMC, where they are staying together in a cabin with one bed, this book is right for you. And if you love reading mafia romances. I highly recommend reading this book after reading the first book in the series, King of Power. I definitely will be reading more books by Aleia Kane
September 16, 2025
Thank you, Grey's Promo and Aleia Kane, for the ARC! I enjoyed reading the story of Micah and Naomi. King of Praise was my first read by this author and in the series. It is the second book in the Club Velvet Petal series, a dark mafia romance series. The action starts off right at the beginning, within the first few chapters. There is already a death, a cover-up, running into hiding, and a mafia territory war unfolding. The romance that brews between Micah and Naomi is not one from forced proximity or the trauma that you can see and sense; the start of a relationship was there before. In chapter 25, there is a line that describes perfectly how these two, who by societal standards should have never fallen in love. “We’ve carved something genuine from crisis, built connection from chaos.”
Mafia romances are extremely predictable, unfortunately. I was constantly waiting to see when the kidnapping was gonna happen or a “surprise” death. However, I was taken aback by how it was done and by who, so Aleia Kane, you got me by surprise there. Typical with mafia romances comes the found family aspect as well, but I loved how Kane added to the found family through the domestic abuse survivors group. The girls formed their own found family aspect. The group of four girls was my favorite characters together. I loved Olivia and can’t wait to see if she gets her own story. Kane does an amazing job of detail writing. Her descriptions in chapters, whether it was a landscape, the feelings inside Naomi’s head, or the way Micah looked, were all detailed meticulously. Overall, King of Praise was an enjoyable and easy read. I recommend it as a winter read for anyone who is a seasonal reader. As for the dark romance readers, it’s the perfect mafia, age gap, found family romance to add to your list.
Mafia romances are extremely predictable, unfortunately. I was constantly waiting to see when the kidnapping was gonna happen or a “surprise” death. However, I was taken aback by how it was done and by who, so Aleia Kane, you got me by surprise there. Typical with mafia romances comes the found family aspect as well, but I loved how Kane added to the found family through the domestic abuse survivors group. The girls formed their own found family aspect. The group of four girls was my favorite characters together. I loved Olivia and can’t wait to see if she gets her own story. Kane does an amazing job of detail writing. Her descriptions in chapters, whether it was a landscape, the feelings inside Naomi’s head, or the way Micah looked, were all detailed meticulously. Overall, King of Praise was an enjoyable and easy read. I recommend it as a winter read for anyone who is a seasonal reader. As for the dark romance readers, it’s the perfect mafia, age gap, found family romance to add to your list.
September 15, 2025
I loved the first book in this Club Velvet Petal series and King of Praise didn't disappoint.
If you love Age Gap then oh my you'll love this hard!! Our FMC Naomi is 26 and our MMC Micah is 54 and smoking hot 🔥 Naomi is in an abusive relationship at the beginning of this story and is trapped... until she fights back and ends it. The last person she expects to help her and protect her is her dead husband's father!!! Micah is a powerful man within the mafia world....when he finds her broken, and bruised he doesn't hesitate to protect her and keep her safe. He takes her away to a remote cabin, he cleans up and hides evidence for her. What happens when these two are alone? What happens when these feelings bring added danger to them?
The chemistry between these two is 🔥🔥 this story is raw, emotional and just gives you goosebumps. Naomi's strength and fight is just 😍 when she finally feels like she can heal and reclaim become herself again it's beautiful to read. What can I say about Micah? he's totally hot and a silver fox!! he's protective, dominant, soft and tender but also oof that filthy mouth of his lol 😆😍 I honestly couldn't put this down it was amazing to read!
If you love Age Gap then oh my you'll love this hard!! Our FMC Naomi is 26 and our MMC Micah is 54 and smoking hot 🔥 Naomi is in an abusive relationship at the beginning of this story and is trapped... until she fights back and ends it. The last person she expects to help her and protect her is her dead husband's father!!! Micah is a powerful man within the mafia world....when he finds her broken, and bruised he doesn't hesitate to protect her and keep her safe. He takes her away to a remote cabin, he cleans up and hides evidence for her. What happens when these two are alone? What happens when these feelings bring added danger to them?
The chemistry between these two is 🔥🔥 this story is raw, emotional and just gives you goosebumps. Naomi's strength and fight is just 😍 when she finally feels like she can heal and reclaim become herself again it's beautiful to read. What can I say about Micah? he's totally hot and a silver fox!! he's protective, dominant, soft and tender but also oof that filthy mouth of his lol 😆😍 I honestly couldn't put this down it was amazing to read!
September 16, 2025
When your life takes a turn for the worst but then you find a love that you never even thought was possible...welcome to the Club Velvet Petal series! Forbidden romance, age gap, and of course a suspenseful story all come together in this absolutely fantastic read. Naomi has just gotten out of a horrific relationship... and soon finds herself taking shelter with her ex husband's father, a man who is as kind as he is dangerous. Micah has always had a soft spot for Naomi and will do anything to make sure she's safe... but can he resist temptation or will he finally give into the feelings he's always had for her all along? Oh this was such a wonderful read!! I was instantly immersed in the characters relationship and getting to see them fall for each other and be perfect for one another was just amazing. I adored their relationship so much and just had a great time reading this book! I can't wait to read the next one in the series!!
Release Date: September 16, 2025
Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)
*Thanks Grey's Promotion for sending me an arc in cxchange for an honest review*
Release Date: September 16, 2025
Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)
*Thanks Grey's Promotion for sending me an arc in cxchange for an honest review*
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