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Binding Devotion: A Dark Mafia Romance

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Binding Devotion is a dark, gripping tale of power, pain, and passion. Tori, the fierce leader of a vigilante group dedicated to dismantling sex trafficking rings, carries a past soaked in blood and secrets. Onyx, the man she once saved, now kneels at her feet — her protector, her lover, her willing slave. But as shadows close in and betrayal lurks behind every corner, their devotion will be tested in the most brutal ways. In a world where love is a weapon and trust can shatter, will their bond be enough to survive the darkness?

298 pages, Paperback

Published June 30, 2025

7 people are currently reading
12 people want to read

About the author

B. Shytle

11 books140 followers
Author also writes under Brittany Shytle

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
809 reviews18 followers
June 30, 2025
Binding Devotion is a dark, gripping tale of power, pain, and passion.

Tori is the fierce leader of a vigilante group who is dedicated to dismantling sex trafficking rings, and she carries a past soaked in blood and secrets.

Onyx, is the man she once saved who now kneels at her feet and is her protector, her love, her willing slave.

But shadows are closing in around them and betrayal is lurking behind every corner, and the devotion between Tori and Onyx is going to be tested in the most brutal of ways.

This is a world where love is nothing more than a weapon and trust can shatter like ice, will their bond be enough to survive the darkness that surrounds them?

YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!!! Please read and consider the trigger warnings before reading this book. Some scenes can be triggering for some readers. Your mental health always comes first and should never be put at risk for a book.

Binding Devotion by B. Shytle and Mistress Murder is A Mafia Murder novel. I love B. Shytle's writing style and I have only read a novella by Mistress Murder and while I did enjoy her writing style, I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about the two combining their writing styles as they are different styles and I wasn't sure if they were going to compliment each other. And I have to say first of all that together they wrote an exceedingly intense book. And they didn't shy around the fact that the world of s*x trafficking is a very real and a very terrifying place.

Tori is such a strong character. She's a true dominatrix in every meaning of the word. And on top of that, she's part of this mafia family. The only reason she's with her current partner is because she wants to keep her brother and his family safe. Unfortunately, that all goes wrong in the worst ways one day.

The other thing that Tori does is hunt down and take out s*x trafficking gangs and sorts them out one way or another. She doesn't believe in women getting hurt in that manner or the selling and trading of women and she is on a mission to see the women caught in these rings free.

Tori's only true happiness and peace comes from her submissive Onyx. Onyx gives Tori a release and a peace that she is unable to find with anyone else or from anything else.

Binding Devotion is a dark, nitty-gritty book that takes you into dark subject matters that not everyone can handle. But, if you can handle the trigger warnings, and you enjoy a pitch-black mafia murder with the subject matter of underground rings that happen in our real world, then I highly recommend this book.

Binding Devotion is well-written and well-developed. The FMC is strong, intelligent, kick-ass, bad-ass, and so much more and she is a morally grey heroine that you want to cheer for in the end.
Profile Image for Kai.
102 reviews
July 3, 2025
Binding Devotion kicks off The Binding Trilogy with a gripping, dark romance that delves deep into the harrowing world of human trafficking. It’s intense, fast-paced, and laced with steamy moments—definitely not a light read, so I strongly recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving in.

The story introduces a wide cast of characters, each carrying a heavy past that connects them to one another and to their shared mission. These interwoven backstories add emotional weight to the narrative and set the stage for what’s to come. I already have a few theories about where the next two books might lead, and I’m eager to see how it all unfolds.

One standout character for me was Onyx. His raw honesty and the pain of his past made him incredibly compelling. My heart broke for him, and I found myself wanting more of his story. On the other hand, Tori—the female lead—was a bit harder for me to connect with. While I understand the tough exterior she’s had to build to survive, some of her choices and behavior didn’t always resonate with me. That said, Onyx’s ability to understand her added a layer of depth to their dynamic that I appreciated.

Overall, Binding Devotion is a solid start to what promises to be a dark and emotionally charged series. If you're drawn to intense, character-driven stories and are comfortable with heavy themes, this one is worth the read. Just be sure to follow it up with something lighter—this book stays with you long after the final page.
Profile Image for Jordan Fiest.
1,852 reviews28 followers
June 27, 2025
Binding Devotion is book one of The Binding Trilogy.

Now as this is the first of three books for the series, it is kind of setting things up and introducing characters. I will not lie, Tori was not a likeable character for me. I get she was trying to protect her brother and everything she did was to accomplish this goal. But I do not like how she doesn't maintain loyalty to Onyx. I am not sure if this is going to turn into a why choose, which if it is then everything makes sense, but if it isn't I'm not a fan of her actions. I loved Onyx and thought he was a great character. He has been through a lot and is still struggling to cope with everything. This is why he needs the structure that Tori provides. Just not a fan of her with Deangelo.

The context of the story is really good. She is the head of a group trying to take down all of the sex trafficking rings, which is quite admirable. Due to this she has to be intense and she does it well. She is a great leader to her group. The story about this is very fast paced and in depth. Read trigger warnings before reading as some moments might be out of your comfort zone.
Profile Image for Amber.
1,338 reviews9 followers
June 29, 2025
Binding Devotion is book one in The Binding Trilogy. This is a dark romance with a lot of focus on human trafficking so be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in. This book moves quickly and has some steamy scenes. We are introduced to a lot of characters in this book. All of them have tragic backstories that tie them all together and to their mission. I have a couple of theories of what could potentially happen in the next two books so I’m excited to see where this series goes.

I absolutely loved Onyx. My heart broke for him and his past but his character was just so honest. I definitely want more of him. I will be completely honest here, Tori was not the most likable FMC. I know she is forced to be strong because of this life but I struggled to understand her thinking and some of the things she did. Onyx always seemed to understand where she was coming from though.

This was a good start to this series but I’m interested to know what will happen next. If you like dark reads and are okay with the potential triggers then you should dive into this. I will recommend having a light read after this one since this book is pretty heavy.
Profile Image for Ashley.
119 reviews
July 7, 2025
Binding Devotion is book one of The Binding Trilogy. This book is extremely dark and hits on very sensitive topics so make sure you check the trigger warnings! Tori is the leader of the BCGR (Break Chains, Get Revenge) which is a vigilante group that saves people from smex trafficking. Each person in the group has been a victim or was impacted by it. Tori is definitely a baddie, a survivor, and a strong leader.I love Onyx! Him and Tori saved each other from Hell and have been together since. He is sweet, obsessive, protective, and he is really tested in this book. At first, I was kind of thrown because this is one of the first books I have read with a male sub. I ended up liking the dynamic and realized that is what he needs. Although there are times when I think she is too hard on him and takes the punishments too far. What I don't like is Tori's relationship with Deangelo. He is the son of the highest ranking member of the syndicate (they control the mafia) so she is expected to marry him and produce an heir. At times they seem a little too cozy for my liking so I am curious where this will lead. This book is intense, heartbreaking, uplifting, and spicy. I can't wait to see what happens in the next!
1,106 reviews20 followers
August 6, 2025
Vigilante Justice At its Best!




This book is set in the broader world that the Mafia Promise books are set in. In fact, Tori is Joseph’s sister who made a brief appearance with Onyx. This read is dark so please heed the trigger warnings. 


This book has so many layers and has laid the foundation for the next two in the series. I struggled at times with some of the dynamics between Tori and Onyx, but after reading the book, I have a better understanding about why they are the way they are. This book was unputdownable and I anticipate the rest of the series will be the same. I’m sitting waiting not so patiently for the next read in the trilogy! 


Highly recommend this book!

Profile Image for Reba Densley.
113 reviews5 followers
September 18, 2025
Your Mental Health Matters.

Tori has experienced pain in so many ways. She's lost everyone in her family except her brother Joseph. She's stayed hidden while learning to protect herself and others. When she learns she's pregnant, she's not sure she can keep doing what she does and protect her unborn child.
Her lover Onyx has his own horrible past that he was saved from by Tori. They have a connection stronger then anyone has ever had.
But they both have a dark past that likes to rear it's ugly head when they think they can have a moment of peace.
Tori's team finally found the location of the person behind so much evil and the person who personally hurt Onyx. But it's not an easy one and not everyone comes out the same.
Profile Image for Jamie Williams.
500 reviews9 followers
June 30, 2025
First off, be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading. This is a very heavy, very traumatic filled book. Overall I liked the book. I thought it was well written and the storyline kept me invested to the very end. I absolutely loved Onyx. Where I struggled was with Tori. I wanted to like her, but I found it difficult. While I admired and loved the work she was doing, I just didn’t have an emotional connection to her. And without saying too much here, the book left me with some questions about the men in her life. I’m curious if we will get answers in the next book, and I’m looking forward to see where the author goes from here.
21 reviews2 followers
September 17, 2025
Wow! This book has depth to the story line. The book is well written and easy to follow. The word choice is amazing and adds to the quality of writing. Tori is the leader of a vigilante group and there are many stories of the characters that are well written so that the reader can really connect with each character. The relationship between Tori and her lover Onyx is complex and well played out to where you can feel the feelings between them. Their feelings are well written into the book with the back and forth in their long time relationship. There are many twists and turns throughout this book to keep you on your toes. Check triggers.
Profile Image for Sarah Seelbaugh.
470 reviews15 followers
July 1, 2025
I absolutely adore B. Shytle's writing; it resonates so deeply. Once you start reading her work, you simply cannot put it down. This particular book explores the complexities of human trafficking, including the emotions, trauma, and darkness tied to such themes. I was truly captivated by Onyx, although I found Tori less appealing. She had to exhibit strength due to her circumstances, yet Onyx always seemed to comprehend her struggles. I cherish the love and understanding they shared. I highly recommend this book! Be sure to check the content warnings before diving in.
Profile Image for Cassandra Barton.
73 reviews
July 11, 2025
Mental Health matters please read trigger warning before reading this book. This is the first of three books in the series. This is the beginning for Tori and Onyx they save each other from hell but Tori cant be loyal to Onyx but yet he stays by her side. She and her crew of people help stop sex trafficking. Tori's past is coming back to basically haunt her. Let's see where the story takes these two. This book is not for the weak of heart and again mental health matter please please if the book get bad for you but it down and be okay.
Profile Image for Kayla T.
366 reviews9 followers
September 19, 2025
I enjoyed this first book that I’ve read by this author. The author did a great job depicting the story of Tori & Onyx.

This book is going to keep you intrigued from start to finish where you’re not going to want to put it down. I love how Tori did everything she could to take down the trafficking rings. Seeing her dedication made me feel good. I love the pet names that the main characters were being called.

One of my favorite quotes: “I know it will be hard to see through the past and into the present. Try to remember someone we love is inside there.”
106 reviews4 followers
June 20, 2025
This book was sooo intense!! Make sure to read the trigger warnings before reading! The world of sex trafficking is a scary place and may be hard for some to read.

I love this author and her writing style. This book is no exception! The detail and her characters keep you turning the pages. Loved the spice in the book. Tori was a true dominatrix and strong FMC. Love that in this one. Good book!! Devoured this book in one sitting.
Profile Image for Megan Rohr.
34 reviews3 followers
June 28, 2025
What an intense read. Make sure to check your triggers on this one!! Such an emotional, thrilling, spicy first in a trilogy. The trigger & content warnings had me a little nervous at first (I’m newish to dark romance & this was my first Dom/sub read) but holy sh!t. B. Shuttle’s writing is captivating. Thank you so much for the opportunity to receive this as an ARC!! I cannot wait for the next two 🖤
Profile Image for Shatana.
363 reviews
July 7, 2025
I absolutely adored this book for countless reasons, but the journey of Tori and Onyx stood out the most. Their story is packed with deep emotions and challenges from their past that could easily break anyone else. However, their love and mutual understanding kept them resilient and united. This narrative beautifully explores themes of healing and moving forward from past traumas. Just be sure to check the trigger warnings, but overall, it's an incredible read.
Profile Image for Charlene Alana  Henderson .
992 reviews31 followers
August 31, 2025
I'm obsessed with B.Shytles books, so when I seen she brought out another book I knew I needed to grab it.

This is the first book in a brand new series and what a start it was. Once I started I couldn't put it down, it's a rollercoaster ride with twists and turns that has me on the edge of my seat. It's action packed and dark, with great characters and storyline. I can't wait to see what comes next. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Tamara Fruge.
482 reviews3 followers
September 19, 2025
This is a dark and heavy book. The storyline grips you and I can’t tell you how happy I am that it is the start of a trilogy because I do want more. Mind you, I needed a palate cleanser after because the book is dark. I cannot stress enough how important it is to read the trigger warnings because this book will not be for everyone. However, if you are good with hard topics and darker romances; this book will grip you hard and not let go!
66 reviews
October 8, 2025
I enjoyed the story but it was very hard for me to get through. This is a very dark story please be aware of your triggers and take breaks as needed. Read all trigger warnings before proceeding this book isn't for the faint of heart. If you don't like someone being called unworthy proceed with caution. Overall Good book so ready to see what adventures lie ahead for these characters. My Favorite so far is onyx he's so easy to love.
Profile Image for Tianna Delgado.
218 reviews9 followers
June 28, 2025
I absoutly loved this book for so many reasons but Tori’s and Onyx story was one so full of emotions and hurdles from the past that would tear normal people apart but their love and understanding of each other kept them strong and together. This book was about healing and moving on from past traumas. Check your trigger warning but definitely an amazing read.
Profile Image for Michele.
278 reviews5 followers
June 30, 2025
First book I've read from this author, and it was very impactful - check TWs because this story deals with human trafficking and the emotions, trauma, and darkness associated with such a subject. Character dynamics were interesting and set the stage for the next two installments. Looking forward to the rest of the story.
416 reviews5 followers
September 20, 2025
first off please check the trigger warnings. this beautiful story is a dark romance. with heavy themes and healing.
Tori is a mafia princess who is battling her own demons. Onyx is a broken man...both are trying to make things better in this world.
omg I loved this book and can't wait to buy the paperback. I need book 2.
Profile Image for Dusty Shirley.
882 reviews11 followers
September 20, 2025
Tori has had a rough go of it, she now runs a vigilante group and finds herself in a predicament or two. Onyx is her lover. There is a lot to unpack in this book that will keep you enthralled, on your toes, and entertained from start to finish. Be mindful of triggers. Can't wait for the next installment.
Profile Image for Joy Parsons.
336 reviews5 followers
September 29, 2025
This is a fantastic story that completely captivated me, particularly the compelling narrative surrounding Tori and her close-knit group. Initially, I was taken aback by the dynamic interactions between Tori and Onyx, but as I delved deeper into the book, I found myself increasingly drawn to their evolving connection. The storyline was executed with remarkable skill, seamlessly integrating into the broader context of the Mafia Promise series. The author truly excelled in crafting the characters and plot, skillfully intertwining them to produce an experience that is both engaging and etched into my memory as a truly special read.
Profile Image for GKP2460 .
4,087 reviews69 followers
October 4, 2025
Binding Devotion is book 1 in The Binding Trilogy and is an intense, gritty, dark read. Tori and Onyx both have very dark pasts and suffered trauma. Together with other individuals they set out to change things. This is a great, intriguing story that ends on a cliffhanger. Make sure you check trigger warnings before you start reading. This isn't a sweet, soft journey so be prepared.
Profile Image for Rachel Burke.
141 reviews2 followers
October 21, 2025
read the triggers!

This one was heavy! While I don’t have anything that necessarily triggered me, the content overall was somber. The mafia part was kinda in the background for Tori’s operation. The love portrayed between Tori & Onxy was beautiful! I am curious to see how things progress in the next book
Profile Image for Mia Baxter.
70 reviews4 followers
June 25, 2025
this book was just wow.
I struggled with some of the content even with reading the trigger warnings, but I just skimmed ahead a little and was okay to continue.
it is so well written and the characters are just so badass and amazing 😍
Profile Image for Tori Smithers.
125 reviews11 followers
June 30, 2025
this is book 1 of the trilogy and let me just tell you. this book through me for a loop. I didn't like Tori at first honestly, but came to like her. If you like spice, and some pretty dark themes, go get this book!
39 reviews4 followers
September 17, 2025
Literally anything this woman writes is absolutely fantastic. That being said, CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS! This book isn't for everyone and mental health matters! But, if you're still in after reading them all, you won't regret it!
Profile Image for Kymmie H.
27 reviews7 followers
September 17, 2025
Please read trigger warnings before reading this book!!! This is the first of three books in the series. This is the beginning for Tori and Onyx. They save each other from hell but Tori cant be loyal to Onyx. Good book. Highly recommend
Profile Image for Krys.
243 reviews13 followers
September 18, 2025
OMG, I’m totally obsessed with this book! 📚✨ Tori is a total queen and I’m here for her power moves! 👑💪 And Onyx? Absolute perfection! Their chemistry is off the charts! 💥 This book is pure magic, y’all! 🌟 A total must-read and an easy-peasy five-star gem! ⭐️😄 Oops, Brittany did it again! 🎉💖
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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