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Kings of New York #4
A Hateful Negotiation
In a slow-burn mafia romance from New York Times bestselling author Tijan, a dangerous psychopath—and deadly crime boss—drops his defenses for the one girl he’s vowed to protect.
Creighton was a dangerous crime boss with a growing empire. And he’s a psychopath.
He’s also obsessed with Blake.
She wanted a normal life. That meant new friends and a life without Creighton.
Except when Blake moves to New York for her senior year of college, Creighton follows because he knows that danger is close behind. He has always protected Blake, and he always will protect her, even if Blake hates how ruthless Creighton has become for her.
However, once they’re in New York, the dynamics between the two begin to change. Tensions heat up, and soon their chemistry is sizzling beyond what Blake can handle.
That means that their usual back-and-forth has to change, with new rules and a new agreement.
Perhaps this negotiation could be for their happily ever after?
They’ll just need to survive each other first…
Creighton was a dangerous crime boss with a growing empire. And he’s a psychopath.
He’s also obsessed with Blake.
She wanted a normal life. That meant new friends and a life without Creighton.
Except when Blake moves to New York for her senior year of college, Creighton follows because he knows that danger is close behind. He has always protected Blake, and he always will protect her, even if Blake hates how ruthless Creighton has become for her.
However, once they’re in New York, the dynamics between the two begin to change. Tensions heat up, and soon their chemistry is sizzling beyond what Blake can handle.
That means that their usual back-and-forth has to change, with new rules and a new agreement.
Perhaps this negotiation could be for their happily ever after?
They’ll just need to survive each other first…
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2026
1151 people are currently reading
6913 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 432 reviews
October 19, 2025
Creighton is one of my very favorite types of heroes. There’s just something about a stone cold killer who only feels when it comes to a woman. I was worried a bit with his war on Trace and Ashton. You can’t have me fall in love with them in their own books to have them fall to Creighton. It got scary there for a while but I’m satisfied with how it all ended. This turned out to be way more emotional than I was expecting and I just loved it!
December 9, 2025
This instantly hooked me in.
If you like the touch her and die trope this is for you! Mafia Romance, unapologetically psychopathic MMC, badass FMC, foster family.
The MMC is a pitch black villain, and when it comes to her he will burn the entire world down. I'm obsessed!
I'm completely in love with the FMC as well. She can hold her own and she challenges the MMC.
It's a bit of a slow burn with the main characters but that chemistry is always there, the bickering, the challenging, the love-hate.
I enjoyed the foster system element of this and Blake wanting to help kids like her. This added good depth to the plot and to her character.
I didn't realise this was part of a series and after reading this and seeing the other players in this mafia world I need to go back and read of all them.
This would be a great way to ease into the mafia dark romance world.
Thank you to the publisher for this advanced copy.
If you like the touch her and die trope this is for you! Mafia Romance, unapologetically psychopathic MMC, badass FMC, foster family.
The MMC is a pitch black villain, and when it comes to her he will burn the entire world down. I'm obsessed!
I'm completely in love with the FMC as well. She can hold her own and she challenges the MMC.
It's a bit of a slow burn with the main characters but that chemistry is always there, the bickering, the challenging, the love-hate.
I enjoyed the foster system element of this and Blake wanting to help kids like her. This added good depth to the plot and to her character.
I didn't realise this was part of a series and after reading this and seeing the other players in this mafia world I need to go back and read of all them.
This would be a great way to ease into the mafia dark romance world.
Thank you to the publisher for this advanced copy.
February 3, 2026
4.5⭐️
2.5🌶️
🔥Mafia Romance
🔥Bad Boy/ Good Girl
🔥Found Family
🔥Grumpy/Grumpy
🔥Loathe to Love
🔥Neurodivergent Hero
🔥Slow Burn
🔥Stalker
🔥Tortured Heroine
🔥Touch Her & ☠️
🔥Dual First Person POV
I would describe A Hateful Negotiation as mafia with a twist. Creighton’s organization isn’t run like a family or driven by money, just his need to protect Blake and control his environment. Blake and Creighton have a complicated relationship. They first met when Blake was placed in a new foster home and immediately he felt protective of her. He was drawn to her light and over the years their relationship changes from protector to more. Creighton is something else, his psychopathic tendencies means he doesn’t feel emotions, which comes in handy in his line of business. Creighton does whatever he wants, only following the rules she gave him, no one innocent and no one good. Blake wants a chance at a normal life, a life without Creighton. She’s transferred schools for her senior year to get away from him and he’s agreed to stay away. But if she seeks him out, all bets are off. Just when she thought she was free from him, she finds it hard to stay away. He sets traps for her, like when her new roommate wants to go to a new club and it just so happens to be one of his. He’s been slowly taking over the neighborhoods surrounding her college, making it known she was his. Creighton’s world starts to bleed into hers and soon her housemates knows who he is and what he does. This is described as loathe to love, but Blake never really hated Creighton. She’s always had feelings for him, although complicated ones, because of who he is. Blake has always understood Creighton better than anyone, but struggled to accept his need to seek retribution for the smallest slight against her. From their background, to the complicated feelings, and dangers they’re now facing, this is a turbulent roller coaster ride. Blake struggled to believe she was important or special enough. Creighton shows her, in his own ways, just how much she means to him. Slow burns are not always my favorite thing to read, but between the building tension and chemistry, weaving in complicated emotions, I was hooked. At first it was hard to like Creighton, but Tijan is able to make any mmc, even a psychopathic Wolverine, redeemable. Now Blake is no push over, with her sass and determination she holds her own. There is a third act break up, but not because of any miscommunication. Blake is confused and conflicted over her feelings for Creighton. He gives her more space than ever, but is there for her when she needs him. This is the fourth in the interconnected series, but is so well written that I wasn’t lost, even though I’ve only read the first book. I am definitely going to read the rest of this series.
🚩Be sure to read the author’s note and content warnings before reading.
Plot: 5
Engaging: 5
Character: 5
Thank you Tijan and Valentine PR for the gifted advanced copy.
📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads🐦🔥
A Few Favorite Quotes:
“I don’t think I’d classify us as friends. Family. Mortal enemies. Either would work better than friends.”
“I am not like your women. You won’t have to worry what Eight will do to you. I’ll handle you myself. I’ll come out swinging with a gun in one hand and a machete in the other. That’s who I am.”
“I met a little girl when she was eight years old, and suddenly I understood the world. You gave me the world. You gave me everything. I use the parameters that you gave me. Don’t you remember, Blake? No one good. No one innocent. Everyone else, fair game. You said those words to me. I’ve been living by those parameters for the last fourteen years.”
“His next words should’ve chilled me. “You’re mine now, Blake. In every way.” They didn’t. They sent my pulse soaring all over again.”
“Would you carry me over a mountain if it were in my way?” “I would blow up the mountain for you.”
“I’d rather she hate me and be alive than be nice and have her dead.”
“You are a gift that I will never deserve, but too selfish to give back.”
She looked at me, saw my monster, then claimed my monster as hers.
“I love you, my little Quokka.” “Yeah, yeah. I love you too, my psychopathic wolverine.”
2.5🌶️
🔥Mafia Romance
🔥Bad Boy/ Good Girl
🔥Found Family
🔥Grumpy/Grumpy
🔥Loathe to Love
🔥Neurodivergent Hero
🔥Slow Burn
🔥Stalker
🔥Tortured Heroine
🔥Touch Her & ☠️
🔥Dual First Person POV
I would describe A Hateful Negotiation as mafia with a twist. Creighton’s organization isn’t run like a family or driven by money, just his need to protect Blake and control his environment. Blake and Creighton have a complicated relationship. They first met when Blake was placed in a new foster home and immediately he felt protective of her. He was drawn to her light and over the years their relationship changes from protector to more. Creighton is something else, his psychopathic tendencies means he doesn’t feel emotions, which comes in handy in his line of business. Creighton does whatever he wants, only following the rules she gave him, no one innocent and no one good. Blake wants a chance at a normal life, a life without Creighton. She’s transferred schools for her senior year to get away from him and he’s agreed to stay away. But if she seeks him out, all bets are off. Just when she thought she was free from him, she finds it hard to stay away. He sets traps for her, like when her new roommate wants to go to a new club and it just so happens to be one of his. He’s been slowly taking over the neighborhoods surrounding her college, making it known she was his. Creighton’s world starts to bleed into hers and soon her housemates knows who he is and what he does. This is described as loathe to love, but Blake never really hated Creighton. She’s always had feelings for him, although complicated ones, because of who he is. Blake has always understood Creighton better than anyone, but struggled to accept his need to seek retribution for the smallest slight against her. From their background, to the complicated feelings, and dangers they’re now facing, this is a turbulent roller coaster ride. Blake struggled to believe she was important or special enough. Creighton shows her, in his own ways, just how much she means to him. Slow burns are not always my favorite thing to read, but between the building tension and chemistry, weaving in complicated emotions, I was hooked. At first it was hard to like Creighton, but Tijan is able to make any mmc, even a psychopathic Wolverine, redeemable. Now Blake is no push over, with her sass and determination she holds her own. There is a third act break up, but not because of any miscommunication. Blake is confused and conflicted over her feelings for Creighton. He gives her more space than ever, but is there for her when she needs him. This is the fourth in the interconnected series, but is so well written that I wasn’t lost, even though I’ve only read the first book. I am definitely going to read the rest of this series.
🚩Be sure to read the author’s note and content warnings before reading.
Plot: 5
Engaging: 5
Character: 5
Thank you Tijan and Valentine PR for the gifted advanced copy.
📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads🐦🔥
A Few Favorite Quotes:
“I don’t think I’d classify us as friends. Family. Mortal enemies. Either would work better than friends.”
“I am not like your women. You won’t have to worry what Eight will do to you. I’ll handle you myself. I’ll come out swinging with a gun in one hand and a machete in the other. That’s who I am.”
“I met a little girl when she was eight years old, and suddenly I understood the world. You gave me the world. You gave me everything. I use the parameters that you gave me. Don’t you remember, Blake? No one good. No one innocent. Everyone else, fair game. You said those words to me. I’ve been living by those parameters for the last fourteen years.”
“His next words should’ve chilled me. “You’re mine now, Blake. In every way.” They didn’t. They sent my pulse soaring all over again.”
“Would you carry me over a mountain if it were in my way?” “I would blow up the mountain for you.”
“I’d rather she hate me and be alive than be nice and have her dead.”
“You are a gift that I will never deserve, but too selfish to give back.”
She looked at me, saw my monster, then claimed my monster as hers.
“I love you, my little Quokka.” “Yeah, yeah. I love you too, my psychopathic wolverine.”
February 13, 2026
This is an absolutely gripping mafia romance! And a fascinating exploration into the mind and reasons of a psychopath and the person he is obsessed with. Now that sounds kind of horrific, and it is, but it also… isn’t. Tijan has somehow worked her magic to not only tell a fabulous story, but make the reader really think. And, she has done it so seamlessly!
Creighton met Blake for the first time when she (Blake) is dropped off at a new Foster home where he lives, as well. She is a beautiful eight-year-old child but it’s obvious she has been beaten (the reason she was pulled out of her previous home and moved). He see’s the innocent, sweet child she is and, as a twelve year old himself, decides right then that he will NOT allow the world to hurt her like he has been hurt in his life. Thus begins a life completely devoted to that little girl and making sure she is okay. See? Sounds so dear and sweet. Yet, through his experiences, he has lost any conscience whatsoever to anyone or anything except his purpose of saving her. And as they grow, his methods become more and more violent, as he builds an organization of others around him to accomplish his purpose. Admittedly, there are a couple of times I questioned the believability (the reason the lower star) such as when in middle-school, a boy had his hand cut-off and one of his cohorts disappeared completely and even though every kid in school knew Creighton was behind it, not a single thing was done...? But, it did show the extreme lengths to which Creighton goes to to protect Blake (the boys were fighting in the hall and accidentally threw Blake down, causing her to get a black eye and a few other minor injuries).
Now imagine being Blake under these circumstances! And that’s where the push and pull of the storyline comes in. By the time she graduates from high school, the only way to get away is to run. Which she does to disastrous consequences. Subsequently they both end up in New York City, her trying to go to college and build some kind of normal life, and him secretly following and building a mafia empire on another mafia bosses turf, in order to make sure no one messes with her.
Now this is where things get really interesting for readers who have read the first two books of this trilogy. Because, he’s encroaching on the turf of the two main characters in those books. AND, many of the events in this story overlap those same events in the previous books, only told from the other POVs. It’s genius how Tijan incorporates it all so seamlessly! And, it poses such a conundrum for the reader to unravel! What he does is wrong - horribly wrong - but what of his motives behind his actions? What would WE do in Blake’s shoes? How is one supposed to handle something and someone so obviously warped yet so obviously devoted? Yikes! It’s an interesting yet perplexing problem!
AND, all the while we are watching an epic love story slowly unravel. It is complicated, sometimes ugly, undoubtably troubled, yet ultimately unforgettable. And that’s a rare thing in today’s plethora of contemporary romance.
P.S. By the end of book two of this series, I really loved Ashton, but in this book, he is a complete DOUCH-BAG! I hated him with a vengeance and now I’m not sure I will ever look at book two the same again.
Creighton met Blake for the first time when she (Blake) is dropped off at a new Foster home where he lives, as well. She is a beautiful eight-year-old child but it’s obvious she has been beaten (the reason she was pulled out of her previous home and moved). He see’s the innocent, sweet child she is and, as a twelve year old himself, decides right then that he will NOT allow the world to hurt her like he has been hurt in his life. Thus begins a life completely devoted to that little girl and making sure she is okay. See? Sounds so dear and sweet. Yet, through his experiences, he has lost any conscience whatsoever to anyone or anything except his purpose of saving her. And as they grow, his methods become more and more violent, as he builds an organization of others around him to accomplish his purpose. Admittedly, there are a couple of times I questioned the believability (the reason the lower star) such as when in middle-school, a boy had his hand cut-off and one of his cohorts disappeared completely and even though every kid in school knew Creighton was behind it, not a single thing was done...? But, it did show the extreme lengths to which Creighton goes to to protect Blake (the boys were fighting in the hall and accidentally threw Blake down, causing her to get a black eye and a few other minor injuries).
Now imagine being Blake under these circumstances! And that’s where the push and pull of the storyline comes in. By the time she graduates from high school, the only way to get away is to run. Which she does to disastrous consequences. Subsequently they both end up in New York City, her trying to go to college and build some kind of normal life, and him secretly following and building a mafia empire on another mafia bosses turf, in order to make sure no one messes with her.
Now this is where things get really interesting for readers who have read the first two books of this trilogy. Because, he’s encroaching on the turf of the two main characters in those books. AND, many of the events in this story overlap those same events in the previous books, only told from the other POVs. It’s genius how Tijan incorporates it all so seamlessly! And, it poses such a conundrum for the reader to unravel! What he does is wrong - horribly wrong - but what of his motives behind his actions? What would WE do in Blake’s shoes? How is one supposed to handle something and someone so obviously warped yet so obviously devoted? Yikes! It’s an interesting yet perplexing problem!
AND, all the while we are watching an epic love story slowly unravel. It is complicated, sometimes ugly, undoubtably troubled, yet ultimately unforgettable. And that’s a rare thing in today’s plethora of contemporary romance.
P.S. By the end of book two of this series, I really loved Ashton, but in this book, he is a complete DOUCH-BAG! I hated him with a vengeance and now I’m not sure I will ever look at book two the same again.
January 18, 2026
RTC
Creighton my love you deserved better, for your psychopathic ass I'd probably rate this 5 stars but alas I just can't .....2.5*
thoughts while reading
“He wasn’t disclosing his sexually transmitted diseases to his partners. But I’ll be very clear here.” He stepped aside and I could see him from the light again. There was nothing on his face. His same dead eyes. He was a statue, a pretty, empty, and murderous statue. “If his diseased dick had gotten anywhere near you, I would’ve hanged everyone he loved.”
🤭🤭🤭
he's literally almost perfect man I don't get h's like Blake resisting men like this! Like gurllllll sure he'll kill anyone who hurts you but can't you see that's a good thing?!? I mean cmon! get it together!!!! All this pushing away and I'm here swooning 😑you don't deserve him atp..... sure he's a little psycho but that's like a good thing 🥴
ughhhhh.......authors always have to fucking ruin a good thing!!!!!! he's fucking obsessed with her!!!! he doesn't have feelings like regular folks why tf does he even need sex?????????? MF!!!!!!!! and of course she's a virgin!!!!! I want to kill someone atp because why tf do y'all do this shit??? he was fucking perfect. PERFECT!! an obsessed psycho doesn't fuck op fuck do you mean 😒😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
There was one more thing, and my throat swelled at the idea of bringing it up because we had never talked about other people before. “I don’t want you touching anyone else.” I knew he had used others in the past for his sexual needs.
His hand stilled on my hair before he continued running his fingers through my strands. “I will not let anyone else touch me. Just you.”
I'm so over Blake..... why is he even obsessed with her??? she's annoying AF!! the other 2 roommates have much more interesting personalities than little miss woe is me foster child . Like just let the man just *be* who he is damn 🥴😂
“What are you asking for?”
“Scale back. Don’t go to the extremes you do. Not everyone is the same. There’s a difference between someone robbing me and someone who said a word that hurt my feelings.”
“Not to me.”
As if I couldn't hate this stupid bitch anymore of course her dumb ass gets kidnapped!!!!!! why TF would you just go off with someone!?????? omggggggg Blake has been doing my head in from the moment she became an adult 😂 I'd like 8 year old Blake back please because adult Blake is stupid AF!
Creighton my love you deserved better, for your psychopathic ass I'd probably rate this 5 stars but alas I just can't .....2.5*
thoughts while reading
“He wasn’t disclosing his sexually transmitted diseases to his partners. But I’ll be very clear here.” He stepped aside and I could see him from the light again. There was nothing on his face. His same dead eyes. He was a statue, a pretty, empty, and murderous statue. “If his diseased dick had gotten anywhere near you, I would’ve hanged everyone he loved.”
🤭🤭🤭
he's literally almost perfect man I don't get h's like Blake resisting men like this! Like gurllllll sure he'll kill anyone who hurts you but can't you see that's a good thing?!? I mean cmon! get it together!!!! All this pushing away and I'm here swooning 😑you don't deserve him atp..... sure he's a little psycho but that's like a good thing 🥴
ughhhhh.......authors always have to fucking ruin a good thing!!!!!! he's fucking obsessed with her!!!! he doesn't have feelings like regular folks why tf does he even need sex?????????? MF!!!!!!!! and of course she's a virgin!!!!! I want to kill someone atp because why tf do y'all do this shit??? he was fucking perfect. PERFECT!! an obsessed psycho doesn't fuck op fuck do you mean 😒😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
There was one more thing, and my throat swelled at the idea of bringing it up because we had never talked about other people before. “I don’t want you touching anyone else.” I knew he had used others in the past for his sexual needs.
His hand stilled on my hair before he continued running his fingers through my strands. “I will not let anyone else touch me. Just you.”
I'm so over Blake..... why is he even obsessed with her??? she's annoying AF!! the other 2 roommates have much more interesting personalities than little miss woe is me foster child . Like just let the man just *be* who he is damn 🥴😂
“What are you asking for?”
“Scale back. Don’t go to the extremes you do. Not everyone is the same. There’s a difference between someone robbing me and someone who said a word that hurt my feelings.”
“Not to me.”
As if I couldn't hate this stupid bitch anymore of course her dumb ass gets kidnapped!!!!!! why TF would you just go off with someone!?????? omggggggg Blake has been doing my head in from the moment she became an adult 😂 I'd like 8 year old Blake back please because adult Blake is stupid AF!
January 20, 2026
3.75🌟, 2.5🌶️
If you enjoy morally gray men and complicated relationships, this one delivers.
Creighton’s world revolves entirely around control and protecting Blake, not money or loyalty. Their relationship begins when they are placed in the same foster home and evolves into something complicated, intense, and impossible to escape. Blake wants a normal life far away from Creighton, but no matter how much distance she tries to create, he is always there, watching and waiting.
Their dynamic is messy and emotional rather than hateful. Blake never truly despises Creighton, she understands him too well for that, and that understanding makes everything harder. Creighton is ruthless, detached, and undeniably dangerous, but Blake is the one person who can ground him. The slow burn worked for me because the tension and chemistry were constant, and Blake’s strength and determination kept her from fading into the background.
The story does lean heavily on trauma and kidnapping, which at times felt repetitive and kept this from being a higher rating for me. Still, the emotional payoff landed and I stayed invested in both characters. This is part of an interconnected series, but it reads well on its own.
Not perfect, but intense and emotionally engaging from start to finish.
~~~~
Special thanks to Tijan and Valentine PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
If you enjoy morally gray men and complicated relationships, this one delivers.
Creighton’s world revolves entirely around control and protecting Blake, not money or loyalty. Their relationship begins when they are placed in the same foster home and evolves into something complicated, intense, and impossible to escape. Blake wants a normal life far away from Creighton, but no matter how much distance she tries to create, he is always there, watching and waiting.
Their dynamic is messy and emotional rather than hateful. Blake never truly despises Creighton, she understands him too well for that, and that understanding makes everything harder. Creighton is ruthless, detached, and undeniably dangerous, but Blake is the one person who can ground him. The slow burn worked for me because the tension and chemistry were constant, and Blake’s strength and determination kept her from fading into the background.
The story does lean heavily on trauma and kidnapping, which at times felt repetitive and kept this from being a higher rating for me. Still, the emotional payoff landed and I stayed invested in both characters. This is part of an interconnected series, but it reads well on its own.
Not perfect, but intense and emotionally engaging from start to finish.
~~~~
Special thanks to Tijan and Valentine PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
January 13, 2026
Wow! This book….emotional, ups and down, and the reason why I love Tijan.
This story was such a wild ride of a read but captured me and kept my attention. Blake and Creighton are bonded by the pains of life. Their love for the other is more than most could ever imagine and the reason why Creighton will burn the world down to protect Blake!
This story is packed with some crazy twists, a lot of turns but is a story that I couldn’t get enough of. We were introduced to some new peeps and I am hoping we get more because I need to know their stories. Another great addition to this series!
This story was such a wild ride of a read but captured me and kept my attention. Blake and Creighton are bonded by the pains of life. Their love for the other is more than most could ever imagine and the reason why Creighton will burn the world down to protect Blake!
This story is packed with some crazy twists, a lot of turns but is a story that I couldn’t get enough of. We were introduced to some new peeps and I am hoping we get more because I need to know their stories. Another great addition to this series!
tbr-arcs
September 19, 2025♥---PRE-READ---♥
So excited to read this! Got the eARC from NetGalley on "Read Now" today, 8/23/2025 (US time).
So excited to read this! Got the eARC from NetGalley on "Read Now" today, 8/23/2025 (US time).
September 5, 2025
This was such an addictive slow burn! The writing really pulled me in, and I loved every character. Blake and Creighton’s chemistry was slow, intense, and completely captivating. I especially loved how the author gave Creighton this menacing, dangerous aura, yet showed such a different side to him with his foster siblings—it made him so layered and fascinating.
The secondary characters were great as well, and I have a feeling we’ll be seeing more of their stories in the future (which I’d absolutely love).
Overall, this was a dark, tense, and thoroughly enjoyable read. I enjoyed it tremendously and will definitely be picking up more of Tijan’s novels.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
The secondary characters were great as well, and I have a feeling we’ll be seeing more of their stories in the future (which I’d absolutely love).
Overall, this was a dark, tense, and thoroughly enjoyable read. I enjoyed it tremendously and will definitely be picking up more of Tijan’s novels.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
August 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake and Tijan for sharing this ARC with me in exchange for my honest opinion and thoughts.
I really loved the characters and the plot. Tijan’s writing is amazing. I couldn’t put it down! It’s an elegant slow-burn, mafia love story with just the right amount of chaos.
I highly recommend this book. I promise you, this is a book you won’t soon forget.
I really loved the characters and the plot. Tijan’s writing is amazing. I couldn’t put it down! It’s an elegant slow-burn, mafia love story with just the right amount of chaos.
I highly recommend this book. I promise you, this is a book you won’t soon forget.
September 1, 2025
After reading the last book, A Captive Situation, I was ecstatic to finally dive into Blake and Creighton’s story.
Blake and Creighton were orphans who came from a broken foster system. The moment a young, bruised Blake arrived at the driveway of her new home, Creighton became instantly protective of her. He became almost too obsessively protective to the point where she felt suffocated. She wanted him to be normal, but over the years, she realized that was impossible because, outside of his obsession with her, he showed no emotions.
Their story picks up where the last book ended. In A Captive Situation, Blake was kidnapped and used as leverage by Creighton’s cousin. Creighton promised Blake that he wouldn’t kill Sawyer and Jake only if she promised not to run away from him anymore. In this book, we see her moving into a college house with roommates, trying her best to live a normal life while finishing her senior year of college. Of course, Creighton won’t allow her to live in a new city without the necessary precautions in place to ensure her safety.
The characters were well developed, but the overall story just fell kinda flat. How many times can the heroine get kidnapped and escape on her own? I seriously couldn’t stop rolling my eyes. It felt like the same plot in a different book all over again. I was so disappointed because I really loved them. Their sad upbringings and character development were so compelling, and their story had a lot of potential, but the recycled plot completely killed it for me.
I did enjoy the romance, and it was obvious how much love they both held for each other, but even so, I felt like it could’ve been developed further.
What To Expect:
• Mafia Romance
• Foster siblings
• Boy Obsessed
• Stalker
• Heroine in Danger
• Good girl x Bad Boy
⚠️: Off page child abuse, kidnapping, violence, and more.
Thank you to the author and Montlake Romance for an ARC of this title. All opinions are my own.
Blake and Creighton were orphans who came from a broken foster system. The moment a young, bruised Blake arrived at the driveway of her new home, Creighton became instantly protective of her. He became almost too obsessively protective to the point where she felt suffocated. She wanted him to be normal, but over the years, she realized that was impossible because, outside of his obsession with her, he showed no emotions.
Their story picks up where the last book ended. In A Captive Situation, Blake was kidnapped and used as leverage by Creighton’s cousin. Creighton promised Blake that he wouldn’t kill Sawyer and Jake only if she promised not to run away from him anymore. In this book, we see her moving into a college house with roommates, trying her best to live a normal life while finishing her senior year of college. Of course, Creighton won’t allow her to live in a new city without the necessary precautions in place to ensure her safety.
The characters were well developed, but the overall story just fell kinda flat. How many times can the heroine get kidnapped and escape on her own? I seriously couldn’t stop rolling my eyes. It felt like the same plot in a different book all over again. I was so disappointed because I really loved them. Their sad upbringings and character development were so compelling, and their story had a lot of potential, but the recycled plot completely killed it for me.
I did enjoy the romance, and it was obvious how much love they both held for each other, but even so, I felt like it could’ve been developed further.
What To Expect:
• Mafia Romance
• Foster siblings
• Boy Obsessed
• Stalker
• Heroine in Danger
• Good girl x Bad Boy
⚠️: Off page child abuse, kidnapping, violence, and more.
Thank you to the author and Montlake Romance for an ARC of this title. All opinions are my own.
February 6, 2026
I don’t know if I’m just been on a an especially bad streak but this was definitely pretty good. Atleast 4/4.5 if not 5 stars. This is also probably part of interconnected standalones or something, I started with this one. That being said, it wasn’t too difficult to follow along and I enjoyed it.
So h is Blake and H is Creighton. Story starts with h at 8 years old, she’s stuck in an abusive foster home. Her social worker shows up, realizes something is wrong and takes her to a better foster home. Here she meets H, he’s 6 years older. Everyone is already kind of afraid of him, he tells her everyone else should be, but she’ll never have to be.
Fast forward to senior year of college, FMC is 22 and she has to move into new housing. There was a situation causing her to move and she was placed in post grad housing. So she has a super nice house and three roommates: Paloma, Marshall, Heath, and Nico (who might as well be a ghost lol). She gets along with Paloma and is generally excited about her housing situation. Turns out there was some kind of kidnapping attempt previously, forcing h to move. H has his people keeping an eye on her but they’re supposed to be invisible. She has some sort of deal with him, where he can keep an eye on her so she doesn’t run, which she apparently did in the past.
Obviously this is related to H. He’s now a big bad mafia alpha, who’s been trying to move in on territories in NYC. This isn’t received well by the original mafia family heirs Tristan and Ashton (MMCs from prior stories), so they’re essentially at war. While meeting with the other mafia alphas, they threaten h and H does not like that one bit. They had his cousin (which he didn’t know about I guess) befriend and kidnap h in the past, which didn’t go over well with H. H is a psychopath and literally only lives by a set of morals that h gave him. So he’s not gonna take a threat to his woman lightly. He knows h wouldn’t like it if he killed their women so he decides to hurt them by burning down one’s art gallery and the other’s bowling alley .
We learn that H and h have a loooong ambiguous history. He was sort of like her protector/older brother growing up. Now things are more vague. She thinks he isn’t attracted to her like that, he tells her she can date. But he also like kills everyone she attempts to date for one reason or another. NOW, technically these two aren’t together before this book even though he’s obsessed with her. There’s mention of him enjoying pleasure and that he’s been with OW. I I side eyed this a bit because if he’s so obsessed why didn’t he wait for her? I guess there’s a 6 year gap, an he was already a teenager when they met. Also even though she knows he’s been with OW, there is no mention or sight of them even once. No OW drama at all, so I’m gonna assume it was literally just handling the physical urge and that’s it. They’re only with each other once they get together.
The ending is sweet. Honestly this is the type of mafia romance I actually enjoy. MMC is straight obsessed with FMC and she’s literally his reason behind everything he does. ✨🤌
So h is Blake and H is Creighton. Story starts with h at 8 years old, she’s stuck in an abusive foster home. Her social worker shows up, realizes something is wrong and takes her to a better foster home. Here she meets H, he’s 6 years older. Everyone is already kind of afraid of him, he tells her everyone else should be, but she’ll never have to be.
Fast forward to senior year of college, FMC is 22 and she has to move into new housing. There was a situation causing her to move and she was placed in post grad housing. So she has a super nice house and three roommates: Paloma, Marshall, Heath, and Nico (who might as well be a ghost lol). She gets along with Paloma and is generally excited about her housing situation. Turns out there was some kind of kidnapping attempt previously, forcing h to move. H has his people keeping an eye on her but they’re supposed to be invisible. She has some sort of deal with him, where he can keep an eye on her so she doesn’t run, which she apparently did in the past.
Obviously this is related to H. He’s now a big bad mafia alpha, who’s been trying to move in on territories in NYC. This isn’t received well by the original mafia family heirs Tristan and Ashton (MMCs from prior stories), so they’re essentially at war. While meeting with the other mafia alphas, they threaten h and H does not like that one bit. They had his cousin (which he didn’t know about I guess) befriend and kidnap h in the past, which didn’t go over well with H. H is a psychopath and literally only lives by a set of morals that h gave him. So he’s not gonna take a threat to his woman lightly. He knows h wouldn’t like it if he killed their women so he decides to hurt them by burning down one’s art gallery and the other’s bowling alley .
We learn that H and h have a loooong ambiguous history. He was sort of like her protector/older brother growing up. Now things are more vague. She thinks he isn’t attracted to her like that, he tells her she can date. But he also like kills everyone she attempts to date for one reason or another. NOW, technically these two aren’t together before this book even though he’s obsessed with her. There’s mention of him enjoying pleasure and that he’s been with OW. I I side eyed this a bit because if he’s so obsessed why didn’t he wait for her? I guess there’s a 6 year gap, an he was already a teenager when they met. Also even though she knows he’s been with OW, there is no mention or sight of them even once. No OW drama at all, so I’m gonna assume it was literally just handling the physical urge and that’s it. They’re only with each other once they get together.
The ending is sweet. Honestly this is the type of mafia romance I actually enjoy. MMC is straight obsessed with FMC and she’s literally his reason behind everything he does. ✨🤌
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another book that’s hard for me to rate. It wasn’t bad. It was actually kind of sweet… if I’m allowed to say that. But honestly, I’m glad it’s over. I felt like I had been reading this book forever and couldn’t really make any progress, often struggling to even push myself to continue.
Don’t get me wrong, the story was fine. There was quite a bit of action, which I like, even though the developments between the characters took a long time (they knew each other, but definitely slow burn for me). The problem was that I couldn’t connect with the characters at all. I didn’t dislike them, but I didn’t feel any connection.
Even though Blake was a fairly strong FMC and Creighton was obsessive in the way I usually love, I just didn’t feel it here. The characters were good, but they seemed a bit flat to me. I don’t know why. I really can’t explain what bothered me. I just didn’t feel any chemistry between them, even though the story itself was good. It’s probably just a matter of personal preference.
Honestly, the character that interested me the most was Niko, but she appeared very little, and I don’t know why, but it felt like she had more chemistry with Creighton than Blake did. I would read a book with those two. Otherwise, I don’t feel any need to know more about any of the other characters.
This story was readable, and I believe many people will love it. It just wasn’t for me.
Don’t get me wrong, the story was fine. There was quite a bit of action, which I like, even though the developments between the characters took a long time (they knew each other, but definitely slow burn for me). The problem was that I couldn’t connect with the characters at all. I didn’t dislike them, but I didn’t feel any connection.
Even though Blake was a fairly strong FMC and Creighton was obsessive in the way I usually love, I just didn’t feel it here. The characters were good, but they seemed a bit flat to me. I don’t know why. I really can’t explain what bothered me. I just didn’t feel any chemistry between them, even though the story itself was good. It’s probably just a matter of personal preference.
Honestly, the character that interested me the most was Niko, but she appeared very little, and I don’t know why, but it felt like she had more chemistry with Creighton than Blake did. I would read a book with those two. Otherwise, I don’t feel any need to know more about any of the other characters.
This story was readable, and I believe many people will love it. It just wasn’t for me.
January 14, 2026
Tijan - you never fail to deliver a gripping story that keeps me invested from start to finish.
We met Blake in a previous book (A Captive Situation) but we really get to know her in this book. And boy do I love her so much.
Creighton is without a doubt, a villain. But Blake is his kryptonite. However, she just wants her freedom from him. I won't on into their background (you will know if you read A Captive Situation) as I want new readers to experience their connection authentically without knowing before diving into this book.
I will that reading A Captive Situation before this one will probably help in setting the stage for this story, but isn't necessary as only the ending of that book is helpful to the start of this one. But you will probably want to read other books in this series (Kings of New York) after reading this and see what they're all about.
I digress, this is a slow-burn romance. Blake and Creighton have a past, but it's not one you expect. The chemistry is there but can an obsession lead to a healthy relationship between Creighton and Blake?
Definitely a recommended read for those slow-burn, mafia romances.
We met Blake in a previous book (A Captive Situation) but we really get to know her in this book. And boy do I love her so much.
Creighton is without a doubt, a villain. But Blake is his kryptonite. However, she just wants her freedom from him. I won't on into their background (you will know if you read A Captive Situation) as I want new readers to experience their connection authentically without knowing before diving into this book.
I will that reading A Captive Situation before this one will probably help in setting the stage for this story, but isn't necessary as only the ending of that book is helpful to the start of this one. But you will probably want to read other books in this series (Kings of New York) after reading this and see what they're all about.
I digress, this is a slow-burn romance. Blake and Creighton have a past, but it's not one you expect. The chemistry is there but can an obsession lead to a healthy relationship between Creighton and Blake?
Definitely a recommended read for those slow-burn, mafia romances.
August 30, 2025
Reading Tijan books is always such a fun and compelling experience for me because her characters are always so well developed so I was surprised that I didn’t instantly love these two. I think too much happens between them before the book starts that I found it hard to really feel their connection. They aren’t the most likable characters at first either. They’re flawed, damaged, raw and gritty and the beginning of the book has a lot of scenes that are emotionally hard to read. It’s the darkest story so far in this series. It did take me a while to really appreciate the characters in this one. It was hard to see the Hs from book one and two so vulnerable. The H was at fault, so the blame was on him which made it hard to see him as anyone but a villain. He isn’t an antihero though so it was just all messy and confusing and uncomfortable in the beginning. She did a good job of making this reader extremely conflicted! Of course, as the book goes on and we get to know him, his motivations (gah so sweet) and understood his character more then everything made sense and I could really enjoy this read and how different it is. His character development and redemption arc were so satisfying!! I honestly did not think I was ever going to like him! This is such a “trust the process” book with this H. My fav aspect of this read.
The h is a little more likable at first but she is really struggling with the H being back in her life. In a romance I want the h to want to be around the H so, similarly to the situation with the H, it took a hot minute to really connect with her especially with so much happening in the 14 years they’ve known each other being off page. The start of this one reads similarly to a second chance trope even though it’s not. By about midway the book really takes off, things come together, there starts to be some levity and the connection between the two of them really dragged me in. My only real issue in the end was that I wish that the h would have seen all that the H did earlier instead of just focusing on his violence and her rules for him. The h played up the “Survive me, to love me” vibes way more than was necessary for the scenes we were given. She’s an overdramatic little thing, lol. Every time she learned of something good he did she was like shocked and that bummed me out.
For a good portion of the book, I wasn’t sure how their happy ending or the plot resolution was going to be reached. I honestly thought she was just blowing up this whole series! Nerve wracking!! I was pleasantly surprised by all the outcomes and their HEA. This one gave me Bren and Cross, my fav Tijan couple, vibes so that alone made it so much fun and a bit nostalgic to read. I think this is a read that would be even better on a reread though. And, oh that epilogue!! Gah! So good!!
Overall: 4.5
The h is a little more likable at first but she is really struggling with the H being back in her life. In a romance I want the h to want to be around the H so, similarly to the situation with the H, it took a hot minute to really connect with her especially with so much happening in the 14 years they’ve known each other being off page. The start of this one reads similarly to a second chance trope even though it’s not. By about midway the book really takes off, things come together, there starts to be some levity and the connection between the two of them really dragged me in. My only real issue in the end was that I wish that the h would have seen all that the H did earlier instead of just focusing on his violence and her rules for him. The h played up the “Survive me, to love me” vibes way more than was necessary for the scenes we were given. She’s an overdramatic little thing, lol. Every time she learned of something good he did she was like shocked and that bummed me out.
For a good portion of the book, I wasn’t sure how their happy ending or the plot resolution was going to be reached. I honestly thought she was just blowing up this whole series! Nerve wracking!! I was pleasantly surprised by all the outcomes and their HEA. This one gave me Bren and Cross, my fav Tijan couple, vibes so that alone made it so much fun and a bit nostalgic to read. I think this is a read that would be even better on a reread though. And, oh that epilogue!! Gah! So good!!
Overall: 4.5
December 6, 2025
A tale of "he hates everyone but her and will unalive anyone who dare hurt her” was promising, but overall this story fell flat for me. This was my second book by Tijan and unfortunately, I have to come to the conclusion that her writing style is just not for me.
The main characters Blake and Creighton are developed fairly well. Complicated backstories that lead the reader to present day and how each character has come to be. There was just something off about their chemistry, making their coming together a bit anticlimactic. The reaction to Creighton by the roommates also felt off for me too. I did not feel like he was charismatic enough to illicit responses of submission from Heath and Palma and more than deserved the reaction he got from Marshall instead.
One thing about Tijan is that you can expect these characters to go through it! Trauma upon trauma, with way too quick resolutions and characters brushing off these incidents like they were no big thing, at least until the next trauma. This may work for some readers, but for me, this much trauma dumping didn’t add anything to the plot and just felt like filler.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eArc!
The main characters Blake and Creighton are developed fairly well. Complicated backstories that lead the reader to present day and how each character has come to be. There was just something off about their chemistry, making their coming together a bit anticlimactic. The reaction to Creighton by the roommates also felt off for me too. I did not feel like he was charismatic enough to illicit responses of submission from Heath and Palma and more than deserved the reaction he got from Marshall instead.
One thing about Tijan is that you can expect these characters to go through it! Trauma upon trauma, with way too quick resolutions and characters brushing off these incidents like they were no big thing, at least until the next trauma. This may work for some readers, but for me, this much trauma dumping didn’t add anything to the plot and just felt like filler.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eArc!
October 28, 2025
The best mafia of hourrrr
It has been such a long time since i found an actual good mafia book that when i started reading this i had zero expectations but colourme purple this was UNBELIEVABLE
From the story, to the characters, to the psychopath MMC/ the best book boyfriend from a mafia romance, to the found family, it was all so perfect and so amazingly written that i was so sadthe book ended.
Blake and Creighton had such an amazing pull, they made me yearn for them in the same way they yearned for each other, and the chemistry…. That’s how you write chemistry and tension in a good mafia book.
I may reread them soon just to feel something ….
Thank you to the publisher for the arc.
It has been such a long time since i found an actual good mafia book that when i started reading this i had zero expectations but colourme purple this was UNBELIEVABLE
From the story, to the characters, to the psychopath MMC/ the best book boyfriend from a mafia romance, to the found family, it was all so perfect and so amazingly written that i was so sadthe book ended.
Blake and Creighton had such an amazing pull, they made me yearn for them in the same way they yearned for each other, and the chemistry…. That’s how you write chemistry and tension in a good mafia book.
I may reread them soon just to feel something ….
Thank you to the publisher for the arc.
January 21, 2026
I rated this 4 Stars
I'm just saying, if I had to fall in love with a psychopath, I'd want him to be Creighton lol!
“I am not a man that cares about right from wrong, except when it concerns you. Only with you. Don’t you get that? You’re my barometer. You’re my compass. I know which way is right because of you. You’re the reason why I’m able to function as a normal person. So yes, Blake, it’s always going to matter with you.”
From the moment 14-year-old Creighton met 8-year-old Blake at their foster home, he has ensured her safety. She became his compass and barometer for right and wrong.
Creighton is a self-proclaimed psychopath. He lives by his own rules and likes to play his own games. But one thing he will never compromise on is ensuring that Blake is safe. She is now a senior in college and wants nothing more than to have a normal life, which she has not been able to have due to Creighton ever watchful guards and infamy.
Blake struggles with feeling worthy, as she was a foster child who never really felt loved by an adult. She is also extremely independent and quite capable. In spite of her upbringing, she is not jaded. She allows herself to be open and trusting of others. She is empathetic and strongly internalizes the blame for the murders Creighton commits in her name. Throughout the books, she battles with her "crush" on Creighton and her loathing of him. She struggles with the desire to get far away from him and then the understanding that he has cared for her more than anyone else.
Creighton is making moves and plays to ensure that no one has power over him and that he is able to, above all, protect Blake. He knows he is different, that he doesn't have feelings like "normal" people. But he knows he is a better person because of Blake and refuses to let her go.
This story revolves around a mafia war taking place and Creighton wanting revenge for Blake being taken. Based on Creighton's international monologue, he is very analytical and definitely does not come off as the average person. While he cares for friends, he is only fully invested in Blake.
I loved that Blake was capable and able to defend herself to some extent. She, too, could be analytical when assessing a dangerous situation. She did not become a damsel and was able to get herself out of situations several times.
"If I survived this, I was going to declare my own war, and hell hath a fucking girl pissed off because this was the last time I was going to be taken like this. I was shaking with fury, my blood boiling. Everything was rattling inside of me."
I absolutely adored Creighton. He was all the things you want a morally grey MMC to be. The ultimate protector, the one who would destroy anything and everything for the FMC. Not a great person but the FMC makes him a better man. He's willing to work behind the scenes in secret to do things that the FMC would approve of or to protect her.
This book was medium-paced and character-driven. If you like the mob scene, high-stakes, and intrigue without the intense violence and gore, or obsessive morally grey MMCs and Competent FMCs this is probably the book for you
I'm just saying, if I had to fall in love with a psychopath, I'd want him to be Creighton lol!
“I am not a man that cares about right from wrong, except when it concerns you. Only with you. Don’t you get that? You’re my barometer. You’re my compass. I know which way is right because of you. You’re the reason why I’m able to function as a normal person. So yes, Blake, it’s always going to matter with you.”
From the moment 14-year-old Creighton met 8-year-old Blake at their foster home, he has ensured her safety. She became his compass and barometer for right and wrong.
Creighton is a self-proclaimed psychopath. He lives by his own rules and likes to play his own games. But one thing he will never compromise on is ensuring that Blake is safe. She is now a senior in college and wants nothing more than to have a normal life, which she has not been able to have due to Creighton ever watchful guards and infamy.
Blake struggles with feeling worthy, as she was a foster child who never really felt loved by an adult. She is also extremely independent and quite capable. In spite of her upbringing, she is not jaded. She allows herself to be open and trusting of others. She is empathetic and strongly internalizes the blame for the murders Creighton commits in her name. Throughout the books, she battles with her "crush" on Creighton and her loathing of him. She struggles with the desire to get far away from him and then the understanding that he has cared for her more than anyone else.
Creighton is making moves and plays to ensure that no one has power over him and that he is able to, above all, protect Blake. He knows he is different, that he doesn't have feelings like "normal" people. But he knows he is a better person because of Blake and refuses to let her go.
This story revolves around a mafia war taking place and Creighton wanting revenge for Blake being taken. Based on Creighton's international monologue, he is very analytical and definitely does not come off as the average person. While he cares for friends, he is only fully invested in Blake.
I loved that Blake was capable and able to defend herself to some extent. She, too, could be analytical when assessing a dangerous situation. She did not become a damsel and was able to get herself out of situations several times.
"If I survived this, I was going to declare my own war, and hell hath a fucking girl pissed off because this was the last time I was going to be taken like this. I was shaking with fury, my blood boiling. Everything was rattling inside of me."
I absolutely adored Creighton. He was all the things you want a morally grey MMC to be. The ultimate protector, the one who would destroy anything and everything for the FMC. Not a great person but the FMC makes him a better man. He's willing to work behind the scenes in secret to do things that the FMC would approve of or to protect her.
This book was medium-paced and character-driven. If you like the mob scene, high-stakes, and intrigue without the intense violence and gore, or obsessive morally grey MMCs and Competent FMCs this is probably the book for you
January 7, 2026
I'm the biggest fan of psychopath mcs so it's safe to say I really enjoyed this book. I honestly wasn't expecting it to get so emotional at the end too! I almost cried in a public place. This book is giving Little Stranger vibes with mafia mixed in. Blake and Creighton are foster siblings, and he's been obsessed with her since the day she walked into the foster home. And my god when I say obsessed, I mean psychotic, possessive, crazy obsession. This man took over the New York Mafia because she was going to New York for college and he wanted to protect her. The plot was pretty good, Blake just moved to a new place and wants to fit in, without having an overbearing obsessed foster brother chasing trouble for her. Honestly their relationship is adorable. There's so much push and pull, and major emphasis on the will they or won't they trope. She's doing her best not to give in, but when he changes for her... how can she not? My one problem is that's there's an awful lot of kidnapping in this book, and it kinda became an overused annoying plot device
I admit, some of the plot twists in it were good, we just didn't need so many kidnappings for the happen. However both of the characters go through significant development whichied. admit, I didn't like Blake that much at the start but by the end Noved her. that I love Creighton, because this man was willing to basically do anything for her. But by the end their couple chemistry was just off the charts. This book was amazing and I give it a 4.5/5
I admit, some of the plot twists in it were good, we just didn't need so many kidnappings for the happen. However both of the characters go through significant development whichied. admit, I didn't like Blake that much at the start but by the end Noved her. that I love Creighton, because this man was willing to basically do anything for her. But by the end their couple chemistry was just off the charts. This book was amazing and I give it a 4.5/5
January 15, 2026
I liked the plot and premise for this book but I'm a bit mystified due to the ramblings of the female lead. I liked her but she was so confusing with her musing, even when everything was in her face. She tried very hard to not accept the hero for what he was, and I get it somewhat, but it never quite seemed as bad as she portrayed. What solidified it for me, was her roommate pointing out how he cherished her, yet the female lead always saw it as an inconvenience.
Idk it was okay but I just wish it had more depth, more passion, chemistry. The obsessive aspect was well done but it lacked that extra “je ne sais quoi" to tie it in nicely for me.
I also agreed with the kidnapping aspect from other reviewers , my eyes rolled in every scene in which that happened, all seemingly pointless.
3.25 stars
Idk it was okay but I just wish it had more depth, more passion, chemistry. The obsessive aspect was well done but it lacked that extra “je ne sais quoi" to tie it in nicely for me.
I also agreed with the kidnapping aspect from other reviewers , my eyes rolled in every scene in which that happened, all seemingly pointless.
3.25 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2026
A Hateful Negotiation is a contemporary, slow-burn, found family, mafia romance with a psychopathic, obsessive, and possessive MMC and a strong, feisty FMC who gives him a run for his money.
From the moment that Creighton met Blake, he was determined to keep her safe. She is for him what he alone never possessed and he doesn't want to lose that. She gives him something that no one else is capable of giving to him. The measures that he is willing to go to to keep her safe and in his life is very impressive and dangerous.
I loved Creighton and Blake and their complex and spicy relationship. I loved seeing their character growth and relationship development throughout the story. I loved how they both learned to adjust their views and expectations of each other in order to achieve their HEA with each other.
This was an intriguing and entertaining read that I very much enjoyed. I loved the found family aspect of the story and enjoyed all of the characters, both main and secondary. The writing, pace, and flow of the story were terrific, as were the plot, storyline, storytelling, and world building.
This was such an incredible story that I would definitely recommend for anyone who loves mafia romance with a morally black MMC and a FMC that takes no sh!t.
From the moment that Creighton met Blake, he was determined to keep her safe. She is for him what he alone never possessed and he doesn't want to lose that. She gives him something that no one else is capable of giving to him. The measures that he is willing to go to to keep her safe and in his life is very impressive and dangerous.
I loved Creighton and Blake and their complex and spicy relationship. I loved seeing their character growth and relationship development throughout the story. I loved how they both learned to adjust their views and expectations of each other in order to achieve their HEA with each other.
This was an intriguing and entertaining read that I very much enjoyed. I loved the found family aspect of the story and enjoyed all of the characters, both main and secondary. The writing, pace, and flow of the story were terrific, as were the plot, storyline, storytelling, and world building.
This was such an incredible story that I would definitely recommend for anyone who loves mafia romance with a morally black MMC and a FMC that takes no sh!t.
January 11, 2026
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC of A Hateful Negotiation in exchange for an honest review.
Confession time: this is my first dark mafia romance. I haven’t had much interest in them in the past, so I simply never dabbled. However, when this ARC became available, there was certainly something alluring about it that made me want to take the plunge, and I’m glad I did. Will I turn into a mafia romance loving junkie? Not likely..but I’m always down to try something new and I’ve heard great things about Tijan’s writing style.
I have to assume that based off this book, there are likely other mafia romances that may link to this book in some way? There are quite a few complicated character dynamics that took me a minute to wrap my head around, so I assume some of these may be explained in other books? Regardless, the story arcs for each character were outstanding and well outlined. I can definitely see the twisted allure that many people may have over Creighton’s character. The man is a psychopath, but a sexy dominating psychopath, which I’m sure appeals to many. I also enjoyed Blake’s headstrong nature. There was certainly some dialogue that went a bit over my head, likely because I’m new to this genre, but nothing that interrupted the storyline.
Overall, I think this was a great introduction to mafia romance novels for those that are curious and I would declare it a great place to start!
Confession time: this is my first dark mafia romance. I haven’t had much interest in them in the past, so I simply never dabbled. However, when this ARC became available, there was certainly something alluring about it that made me want to take the plunge, and I’m glad I did. Will I turn into a mafia romance loving junkie? Not likely..but I’m always down to try something new and I’ve heard great things about Tijan’s writing style.
I have to assume that based off this book, there are likely other mafia romances that may link to this book in some way? There are quite a few complicated character dynamics that took me a minute to wrap my head around, so I assume some of these may be explained in other books? Regardless, the story arcs for each character were outstanding and well outlined. I can definitely see the twisted allure that many people may have over Creighton’s character. The man is a psychopath, but a sexy dominating psychopath, which I’m sure appeals to many. I also enjoyed Blake’s headstrong nature. There was certainly some dialogue that went a bit over my head, likely because I’m new to this genre, but nothing that interrupted the storyline.
Overall, I think this was a great introduction to mafia romance novels for those that are curious and I would declare it a great place to start!
January 14, 2026
STF
The characters were not likeable.
Not only that, but the author cheapened her earlier books by making her main characters into weak chinned cosplay mafia bosses.
The characters were not likeable.
Not only that, but the author cheapened her earlier books by making her main characters into weak chinned cosplay mafia bosses.
January 16, 2026
The obsessed MMC is never believable of he can fuck around but kill any guy who approaches the FMC 🙄
Of course the FMC is virgin and MMC yaps about enjoying dishing out pain and sex with others lol.
Of course the FMC is virgin and MMC yaps about enjoying dishing out pain and sex with others lol.
January 18, 2026
Not sure about the title…
This is as close to perfect a book as I’ve seen in a long time. Not going to get into the plot on this one because it’s enough to say it’s in the Cole and Kai mafia universe.
Blake is the FMC, and she’s been in foster care most of her life. I couldn’t get a feel for her because there’s no real physical description except that her skin is brown and her hair is long, black, and sleek. Creighton is the MMC and he’s got grey eyes, and he’s a psychopath. But he feels love for her, so maybe not a complete one. Psychopaths can mirror emotions back to the person in front of them, but they do not feel those emotions. So this guy is really emotionally retarded more than anything. Learned about this in my social work days… so I certainly could be wrong.
Anyway, there are a number of interesting characters that are in the “normal” world, like the people attending college in the house they are in. And there are people in the criminal world that are equally as interesting. The story was really good and I enjoyed the way the worlds came together.
Tijan is usually a no brainer for me, and this one was no exception. The previous book was the one I didn’t like too much. But I really liked this story a lot, and I’m so glad I bought it. Tijan is definitely one of my favorites and I highly recommend this one.
This is as close to perfect a book as I’ve seen in a long time. Not going to get into the plot on this one because it’s enough to say it’s in the Cole and Kai mafia universe.
Blake is the FMC, and she’s been in foster care most of her life. I couldn’t get a feel for her because there’s no real physical description except that her skin is brown and her hair is long, black, and sleek. Creighton is the MMC and he’s got grey eyes, and he’s a psychopath. But he feels love for her, so maybe not a complete one. Psychopaths can mirror emotions back to the person in front of them, but they do not feel those emotions. So this guy is really emotionally retarded more than anything. Learned about this in my social work days… so I certainly could be wrong.
Anyway, there are a number of interesting characters that are in the “normal” world, like the people attending college in the house they are in. And there are people in the criminal world that are equally as interesting. The story was really good and I enjoyed the way the worlds came together.
Tijan is usually a no brainer for me, and this one was no exception. The previous book was the one I didn’t like too much. But I really liked this story a lot, and I’m so glad I bought it. Tijan is definitely one of my favorites and I highly recommend this one.
November 13, 2025
Thank you to Montlake and Tijan for the advanced readers copy of "A Hateful Negotiation" via NetGalley.
This was my first book to read by Tijan and I absolutely devoured it! I love a good mafia romance, there's not much better in my opinion!!
This book follows Creighton (MMC) and Blake (FMC) as they grow up together in foster care and then into college/their adult lives. It's primarily set in the present, but it does flashback. It's also a dual POV book, so the chapters switch between Creighton and Blake's perspectives.
Creighton is an overprotective mob boss, with touch her and die vibes and I'M OBSESSED!! Blake has a tough upbringing in the foster care system, so check for trigger warnings!
I would say this is a delicious slow burn book. The build up is great, but the delivery is even better!
The only thing that kept me from giving this book 5 stars was Lassiter. His storyline was very odd to me, I feel like we needed more depth from him as a character to understand his feelings.
Otherwise, I would totally recommend this read! It was just what I was in the mood for, which lead me to read it super quickly!!
This was my first book to read by Tijan and I absolutely devoured it! I love a good mafia romance, there's not much better in my opinion!!
This book follows Creighton (MMC) and Blake (FMC) as they grow up together in foster care and then into college/their adult lives. It's primarily set in the present, but it does flashback. It's also a dual POV book, so the chapters switch between Creighton and Blake's perspectives.
Creighton is an overprotective mob boss, with touch her and die vibes and I'M OBSESSED!! Blake has a tough upbringing in the foster care system, so check for trigger warnings!
I would say this is a delicious slow burn book. The build up is great, but the delivery is even better!
The only thing that kept me from giving this book 5 stars was Lassiter. His storyline was very odd to me, I feel like we needed more depth from him as a character to understand his feelings.
Otherwise, I would totally recommend this read! It was just what I was in the mood for, which lead me to read it super quickly!!
September 2, 2025
Recieved an arc. Did not finish. Main guy literally chopped a kid hand off and killed another one. How is this dark romance. Not redeeming even for dark.
January 16, 2026
Not my favorite from Tijan. Creighton was so crazy and did the most insane stuff for Blake. He killed so many people and chopped off this guys hand. That’s just the light stuff and I’m sure there stuff he never told Blake. The main issue with this story was the outside conflict. There’s a couple other people in this story that had books prior that I haven’t read. For the most part you can understand the story without reading them but I wish Blake’s first kidnapping from Ashton and idk his name was explained or got a flashback. Also I wish we got more childhood flashbacks. It was definitely weird that a 14 year old was obsessed with an 8 and killed people that did anything to hurt. But I wish we saw there relationship growing up and not just a couple chapters. And they didn’t even stay in the same foster home because Creighton was 6 years older. So I wish we saw more of the childhood. I also wish we saw the conversation Blake had with Creighton regarding her move to New York and the rules she gave him. And it would have been nice to also see Creighton finding the pamphlet for the school and New York and how he came to the decision to start taking over some of the territory’s. I really did like Blake and Creighton relationship but just wanted to see more of it and how it evolved since they have know each other since childhood. Also I would have loved to see childhood Levi and Lassiter. Not much else to say. Every other mafia/group seemed weak compared to Creighton and I do wonder if that is how it was portrayed in the previous books. Also hate when a man says they only care about the fmc and then sleeps with other people. We don’t see this in the book but it’s mentioned in the man of a man’s sexual needs. Mind you Creighton killed anyone who tried to date Blake and he was also classified a psychopath so he lacked emotion unless it came to Blake which he didn’t reliease til later. The double standard bothers me quite a bit I would have like both to save themselves lol not just the fmc. Anyway we need more men like Creighton very lowkey crazy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2026
Blake was in the foster care system, and moved into the same house as Creighton when she was 8. They had a almost instant friendship connection. He was protecting her for everything and everyone bigger than her when she was smaller. Blake has been kidnapped and held more times than she can count. She decided to leave Cincinnati, Ohio, for the big New York City life. She was also leaving Creighton behind. Although, she didn't know it he followed her. Blake was trying to start a new life, a life on her own, out of the mob / mafia life involving Creighton. But, he couldn't let her go. The opposing mafia families realize that Blake is meaningful to Creighton and they can use her again him. They can also use her new roommates she considers family against her by harming them.
Creighton is a dangerous crime boss with a growing empire. And he’s a psychopath. He doesn't care who survives the mafia wars, as long as his side wins the war. Everyone is scared of Creighton, but not Blake. She knows how to stand up to him. But, other people in the opposing families realize that Blake is something meaningful to Creighton, and they can use her against him by harming her.
Creighton, Blake, Levi, Lassiter, have all known each other since they were young and in foster care together. Lassiter lived down the street from them, but, as he was beaten almost daily by his father, he stayed in the same house with the others sleeping on the couch most nights.
Will Blake be able to save Creighton from total darkness? Or has being the boss and taking over the streets already turned Creighton to far into the darkness? If Blake leaves him again will he be able to find her?
I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving a honest book review.
Creighton is a dangerous crime boss with a growing empire. And he’s a psychopath. He doesn't care who survives the mafia wars, as long as his side wins the war. Everyone is scared of Creighton, but not Blake. She knows how to stand up to him. But, other people in the opposing families realize that Blake is something meaningful to Creighton, and they can use her against him by harming her.
Creighton, Blake, Levi, Lassiter, have all known each other since they were young and in foster care together. Lassiter lived down the street from them, but, as he was beaten almost daily by his father, he stayed in the same house with the others sleeping on the couch most nights.
Will Blake be able to save Creighton from total darkness? Or has being the boss and taking over the streets already turned Creighton to far into the darkness? If Blake leaves him again will he be able to find her?
I did receive a free ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving a honest book review.
January 18, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I genuinely clicked well with book. I could tell I’d love it from when I read the synopsis. Every trope just HIT! I mean - what more could you want with a psychopath mmc in the mafia, a found family dynamic that just…works, a fmc that’s easy to like, and a plot that truly, never, EVER, leaves you bored?!!
Pros:
- The flashback scenes hooked me just as much as the main story
- The writing style flowed really well. Sometimes it’s all about how well you can tell a story, and not merely the story itself!
- Found family UGH YES. I love a good friendship circle
- Creighton was a scary genius. I loved being inside his mind the most!
Cons:
- A tad unrealistic in the sense of : the mmc is ruthless and will unalive anyone, but his soft spot is only for Blake? Where did this stem from? How can he only feel things for her and nothing else at all?
That being said, I thought the pacing was excellently executed. We don’t realise how truly difficult it is to have a reader hooked 24/7, but Tijan pulls this off EFFORTLESSLY. Bravo 👏🏻
From now on I’ll be reading all of her books 🙂↕️🙂↕️ (thank you @ valentinepr for this alc, all opinions are my own!)❤️
I genuinely clicked well with book. I could tell I’d love it from when I read the synopsis. Every trope just HIT! I mean - what more could you want with a psychopath mmc in the mafia, a found family dynamic that just…works, a fmc that’s easy to like, and a plot that truly, never, EVER, leaves you bored?!!
Pros:
- The flashback scenes hooked me just as much as the main story
- The writing style flowed really well. Sometimes it’s all about how well you can tell a story, and not merely the story itself!
- Found family UGH YES. I love a good friendship circle
- Creighton was a scary genius. I loved being inside his mind the most!
Cons:
- A tad unrealistic in the sense of : the mmc is ruthless and will unalive anyone, but his soft spot is only for Blake? Where did this stem from? How can he only feel things for her and nothing else at all?
That being said, I thought the pacing was excellently executed. We don’t realise how truly difficult it is to have a reader hooked 24/7, but Tijan pulls this off EFFORTLESSLY. Bravo 👏🏻
From now on I’ll be reading all of her books 🙂↕️🙂↕️ (thank you @ valentinepr for this alc, all opinions are my own!)❤️
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