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Kings and Rivals #3
Private Deal
They told me he was dead.
I watched them lower an empty coffin into the ground.
Now I'm alone, drowning in a world of enemies I never knew existed. The threats Lance shielded me from have found me, and without his protection, I'm more vulnerable than ever. I have to be strong. I have to survive. Even if my heart feels like it died with him.
But when shadows move in the night and impossible glimpses of a familiar silhouette haunt my dreams, I start to question everything. Am I losing my mind with grief? Or is something far more dangerous at play?
When a stranger with Lance's eyes steps from the darkness, my world tilts off its axis. The man I mourned. The love I lost. The protector I desperately need.
He's here. He's real. And he's very much alive.
The weeks of grief and terror should make me hate him for letting me suffer. Instead, when he pulls me into his arms, when his lips crash against mine, I remember why I fell for him in the first place.
Our enemies think they've won. They think Lance Blackwood is buried and his empire is crumbling. They have no idea what's coming for them.
Private Deal is the explosive conclusion to the Kings and Rivals trilogy—a steamy, high-octane romance where love transcends death, and two hearts fight for a future that seemed impossible.
I watched them lower an empty coffin into the ground.
Now I'm alone, drowning in a world of enemies I never knew existed. The threats Lance shielded me from have found me, and without his protection, I'm more vulnerable than ever. I have to be strong. I have to survive. Even if my heart feels like it died with him.
But when shadows move in the night and impossible glimpses of a familiar silhouette haunt my dreams, I start to question everything. Am I losing my mind with grief? Or is something far more dangerous at play?
When a stranger with Lance's eyes steps from the darkness, my world tilts off its axis. The man I mourned. The love I lost. The protector I desperately need.
He's here. He's real. And he's very much alive.
The weeks of grief and terror should make me hate him for letting me suffer. Instead, when he pulls me into his arms, when his lips crash against mine, I remember why I fell for him in the first place.
Our enemies think they've won. They think Lance Blackwood is buried and his empire is crumbling. They have no idea what's coming for them.
Private Deal is the explosive conclusion to the Kings and Rivals trilogy—a steamy, high-octane romance where love transcends death, and two hearts fight for a future that seemed impossible.
- GenresRomantic Suspense
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2026
36 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Nana Malone
169 books3,029 followersWall Street Journal & USA Today Bestselling author, Nana Malone writes Sexy Feel-Good Romance and loves of all things romance and adventure.
That love started with a tattered romantic suspense she "borrowed" from her cousin. It was a sultry summer afternoon in Ghana, and Nana was a precocious thirteen. She's been in love with kick butt heroines ever since. With her overactive imagination, and channeling her inner Buffy, it was only a matter a time before she started creating her own characters.
That love started with a tattered romantic suspense she "borrowed" from her cousin. It was a sultry summer afternoon in Ghana, and Nana was a precocious thirteen. She's been in love with kick butt heroines ever since. With her overactive imagination, and channeling her inner Buffy, it was only a matter a time before she started creating her own characters.
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Review of advance copy
From its heartbreaking first chapter to its epilogue, this book had me unable to stop reading. Filled with emotion, action, a fantastic cast of characters, Private Deal has been an engrossing from start to finish. My heart went out to Morgan. These chapters were so well described and so effective! Each character was so important in this book, and the author successfully brought them all to life as they interacted and plotted.
As well as tension, there is passion, to be expected from such intense characters, tenderness, camaraderie, treachery and, most of all, loyalty of found family and friendship. Fabulous read! 💖💖💖💖💖
As well as tension, there is passion, to be expected from such intense characters, tenderness, camaraderie, treachery and, most of all, loyalty of found family and friendship. Fabulous read! 💖💖💖💖💖
Review of advance copy
Let me start by saying yes—you absolutely need to pick up this series, and you might as well cancel all your plans because once you start, you will not be able to put it down.
Private Deal is the third book in the Kings and Rivals series, and it’s important to note that this is not a standalone. You must read books one and two first, as this series follows one continuous story—and trust me, it’s a story you do not want to miss.
The conclusion to Lance and Morgan’s journey was nothing short of perfection. I’ve been in love with these two since book one, and Nana Malone truly delivered in every way. Her writing is incredible, and just like the first two books, once I started this one, I couldn’t stop. She completely immerses you in the story—from the vivid descriptions to the nonstop twists and turns.
And let’s talk about those plot twists… because wow. Expect gasping, screaming, and clutching your pearls more than once. This book kept me on edge from start to finish.
I cannot wait to see what Nana Malone has coming next, because if this series is any indication, it’s going to be just as unforgettable.
Private Deal is the third book in the Kings and Rivals series, and it’s important to note that this is not a standalone. You must read books one and two first, as this series follows one continuous story—and trust me, it’s a story you do not want to miss.
The conclusion to Lance and Morgan’s journey was nothing short of perfection. I’ve been in love with these two since book one, and Nana Malone truly delivered in every way. Her writing is incredible, and just like the first two books, once I started this one, I couldn’t stop. She completely immerses you in the story—from the vivid descriptions to the nonstop twists and turns.
And let’s talk about those plot twists… because wow. Expect gasping, screaming, and clutching your pearls more than once. This book kept me on edge from start to finish.
I cannot wait to see what Nana Malone has coming next, because if this series is any indication, it’s going to be just as unforgettable.
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January 12, 2026Available now!
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Amazon: https://bit.ly/4oHf7MY
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/PrCcpV
Apple Books: https://bit.ly/4qsgOiJ
Nook: https://bit.ly/4bbvZbJ
Kobo: https://bit.ly/4jhYVRf
Google Play: https://bit.ly/4aCvdEr
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4aCECf1
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars! This is the second book of Lance and Morgan's duet and it does not disappoint. This is a roller coaster.of a ride with tons of twists and turns that keep you reading to the last page. Morgan grows immensely during this story and has many emotional upheavals that she has to work through. Will she give up or will it only make her stronger? This duet is a good read that you should add to your collection of Nana Malone reads.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily wrote this review from reading an advanced copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The intrigue ramped up in this Kings And Rivals series book from Nana Malone.
I can’t even begin to describe how much I loved PRIVATE DEAL, the third book in Author Nana Malone’s Kings And Rivals series!!! Holy crap on a cracker it was even more intriguing (if that were possible). We saw people change sides, betrayal occurring, plenty of loved up scenes where my eyeballs were scorched, and the grief felt by Morgan absolutely and completely broke my heart. All the feels were in there. My expectations were high and by crikey, Ms Malone delivered.
With PRIVATE DEAL being the third book in this trilogy, it goes without saying that DEEP POCKETS and HIGH STAKES must be read first. What a series this has been! I’m telling you now that once you start, life will get in the way and you’ll resent every interruption, just as I did. Ms Malone’s writing is edgier and she’s has taken her characters into the realm of the DuLac Assassin Family where even familial loyalty will get you no-where. And best part of all for me, Morgan's older sister Gwen and her husband, Atticus Price featured prominently (Kings Of The Boardroom series) as well as Micah, Atticus’ half-brother.
Lance is a machine. I admired that he’d found a way to bring together both sides of his character now that we’d seen the dark assassin side of him and he’d balanced it with the protective, loyal and loving side. A trope I am appreciating more is the Found Family trope and I loved this for Lance when he realised who was now important in his life, and who was there for him when the proverbial doo-doo hit the fan;
“The people who'd become your family when your real family tried to turn you into a weapon.”
And when he even acknowledged at a crucial point that he’d changed, and when things to a head with that real family;
“I put in the SOS call. The old me would have gone in alone. The old me who had no one.”
Morgan really came into her own over the course of PRIVATE DEAL. We’d seen her go from a naive 20-year-old to a woman who not only embraced the entirety of him but deeply and madly loved all of him. My heart completely broke for her when we thought he’d perished at the end of HIGH STAKES, but I did trust Ms Malone enough to know that she wouldn’t leave us high and dry. I admired her as she surprised even herself when she discovered the truth and she enthusiastically took on the training that had her becoming a partner/lover/wife Lance needed in order for them to survive everything that his past family threw at them. The moment where Lance acknowledged the advice her sister Gwen had emphasised to him in a strongly worded confrontation was pure magic;
“But damn if she didn't look incredible. Strong. Capable. Less like someone who needed protecting and more like someone who could handle whatever came next.”
And his family just kept coming. I’d love to comment on the character development of my new favourite secondary character but all I’ll say is I loved that Lance had the best person with him when it mattered. I really hope we hear more from him.
Yep, Author Nana Malone has again delivered a book that had me resenting every moment I was forced to be away from it, and in mixing things up somewhat, has given us an edgier book in Lance and Morgan’s trilogy. I also have to say that we received one helluva kicker at the end and I’m now strongly anticipating the next books!!!
5-deadly-assassin-suspence-romantic-Stars ✨️✦
I can’t even begin to describe how much I loved PRIVATE DEAL, the third book in Author Nana Malone’s Kings And Rivals series!!! Holy crap on a cracker it was even more intriguing (if that were possible). We saw people change sides, betrayal occurring, plenty of loved up scenes where my eyeballs were scorched, and the grief felt by Morgan absolutely and completely broke my heart. All the feels were in there. My expectations were high and by crikey, Ms Malone delivered.
With PRIVATE DEAL being the third book in this trilogy, it goes without saying that DEEP POCKETS and HIGH STAKES must be read first. What a series this has been! I’m telling you now that once you start, life will get in the way and you’ll resent every interruption, just as I did. Ms Malone’s writing is edgier and she’s has taken her characters into the realm of the DuLac Assassin Family where even familial loyalty will get you no-where. And best part of all for me, Morgan's older sister Gwen and her husband, Atticus Price featured prominently (Kings Of The Boardroom series) as well as Micah, Atticus’ half-brother.
Lance is a machine. I admired that he’d found a way to bring together both sides of his character now that we’d seen the dark assassin side of him and he’d balanced it with the protective, loyal and loving side. A trope I am appreciating more is the Found Family trope and I loved this for Lance when he realised who was now important in his life, and who was there for him when the proverbial doo-doo hit the fan;
“The people who'd become your family when your real family tried to turn you into a weapon.”
And when he even acknowledged at a crucial point that he’d changed, and when things to a head with that real family;
“I put in the SOS call. The old me would have gone in alone. The old me who had no one.”
Morgan really came into her own over the course of PRIVATE DEAL. We’d seen her go from a naive 20-year-old to a woman who not only embraced the entirety of him but deeply and madly loved all of him. My heart completely broke for her when we thought he’d perished at the end of HIGH STAKES, but I did trust Ms Malone enough to know that she wouldn’t leave us high and dry. I admired her as she surprised even herself when she discovered the truth and she enthusiastically took on the training that had her becoming a partner/lover/wife Lance needed in order for them to survive everything that his past family threw at them. The moment where Lance acknowledged the advice her sister Gwen had emphasised to him in a strongly worded confrontation was pure magic;
“But damn if she didn't look incredible. Strong. Capable. Less like someone who needed protecting and more like someone who could handle whatever came next.”
And his family just kept coming. I’d love to comment on the character development of my new favourite secondary character but all I’ll say is I loved that Lance had the best person with him when it mattered. I really hope we hear more from him.
Yep, Author Nana Malone has again delivered a book that had me resenting every moment I was forced to be away from it, and in mixing things up somewhat, has given us an edgier book in Lance and Morgan’s trilogy. I also have to say that we received one helluva kicker at the end and I’m now strongly anticipating the next books!!!
5-deadly-assassin-suspence-romantic-Stars ✨️✦
January 9, 2026
PRIVATE DEAL is the third and final instalment in Nana Malone’s contemporary, adult KINGS AND RIVALS dark, erotic, romantic, crime world, suspense trilogy focusing on fashion designer Morgan Becker -Lakewood, and billionaire businessman Lance Deluc Lakewood. PRIVATE DEAL should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up after the events and cliff hanger of book two HIGH STAKES and is set in the author’s KINGS OF THE BOARDROOM world.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Lance and Morgan) PRIVATE DEAL picks up after the events and cliff hanger of HIGH STAKES in which our hero, Lance Lakewood is presumed dead and buried but all is not as it appears to be, while his ‘widow’ mourns, there are people working behind the scenes to destroy her life. Determined to protect the woman he loves, Lance Lakewood, works under the cover of his ‘death’, in an effort to ferret out the people aiming for take back control.
The world building focuses on grief and recovery, and one man’s vengeance to take back control. Using inner dialogue and introspection, the characters reveal the psyche and emotional reactions to the world around them.
The relationship between Lance and Morgan continues to be erotic and intense but our heroine has been lead to believe her husband is dead, Morgan’s grief is often unbearable to the people in her life, a grief that would quickly turn to anger when the truth is revealed. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and determined secondary and supporting characters including Morgan’s sister Gwen and her husband Atticus (Kings of the Boardroom): fixer Silas McGill, Atticus’ brother Micah: Lance’s brother Hector, and their father Charles; fashion promoter Adele Beekman, and Morgan’s assistant Amber. The requisite evil has many faces, not all are whom they claim to be.
PRIVATE DEAL is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, greed and murder, loss and grief, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is emotional and dark; the characters are desperate, determined and charismatic; the romance is passionate. PRIVATE DEAL ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Lance and Morgan) PRIVATE DEAL picks up after the events and cliff hanger of HIGH STAKES in which our hero, Lance Lakewood is presumed dead and buried but all is not as it appears to be, while his ‘widow’ mourns, there are people working behind the scenes to destroy her life. Determined to protect the woman he loves, Lance Lakewood, works under the cover of his ‘death’, in an effort to ferret out the people aiming for take back control.
The world building focuses on grief and recovery, and one man’s vengeance to take back control. Using inner dialogue and introspection, the characters reveal the psyche and emotional reactions to the world around them.
The relationship between Lance and Morgan continues to be erotic and intense but our heroine has been lead to believe her husband is dead, Morgan’s grief is often unbearable to the people in her life, a grief that would quickly turn to anger when the truth is revealed. The $ex scenes are erotic and provocative.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and determined secondary and supporting characters including Morgan’s sister Gwen and her husband Atticus (Kings of the Boardroom): fixer Silas McGill, Atticus’ brother Micah: Lance’s brother Hector, and their father Charles; fashion promoter Adele Beekman, and Morgan’s assistant Amber. The requisite evil has many faces, not all are whom they claim to be.
PRIVATE DEAL is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, greed and murder, loss and grief, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is emotional and dark; the characters are desperate, determined and charismatic; the romance is passionate. PRIVATE DEAL ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.
copy supplied for review
January 13, 2026
Private Deal is the explosive conclusion to the Kings and Rivals trilogy. It centers on Morgan discovering that her dead husband Lance is actually alive, forcing them to rebuild trust while facing dangerous enemies from Lance’s criminally entangled world. Their bond is defined by intense emotional loyalty and physical chemistry, tested by grief, deception, and the need to work as a united front against those trying to destroy them.
At the end of High Stakes, Lance—powerful billionaire businessman whose world mixes elite wealth with crime, secrets, and dangerous rivals—has died. As he sees Morgan having a difficult time grieving him, Lance struggles with guilt over the pain of his death has caused her. He needs to protect her at all costs, and it’s better if she thinks he’s gone…for now. His grandfather is responsible for Lance’s untimely demise, but he works to stay a few steps ahead of his grandfather and the organization he leads to ensure his wife stays safe. As Morgan tries to get back to work with her design company, and engage with her family and friends, she discovers that she’s a lot stronger than she thought. When Lance returns from the grave, Morgan’s love for him morphs into a mix of grief, rage, and longing, so their reunion blends passion with confrontation and hard emotional conversations.
I love the relationship between Lance and Morgan. It’s erotic, intense, and deeply emotional, with their physical connection remaining explosive even when trust between them is fractured. Their bond is built on long-standing love and loyalty, but in this book it shifts toward a more equal partnership as Morgan demands honesty, and Lance learns to stop making unilateral decisions for her own good. Their journey in this book begins with Morgan’s unbearable grief to Lance’s betrayal to a hard-won, battle-tested love where they stand together against those who wanted him buried and her broken. Morgan refuses to be just the protected wife, insisting on being Lance’s partner in truth, strategy, and retaliation. There’s lots of action, and my emotions were all over the place. A beautiful story and a hard-fought great ending.
At the end of High Stakes, Lance—powerful billionaire businessman whose world mixes elite wealth with crime, secrets, and dangerous rivals—has died. As he sees Morgan having a difficult time grieving him, Lance struggles with guilt over the pain of his death has caused her. He needs to protect her at all costs, and it’s better if she thinks he’s gone…for now. His grandfather is responsible for Lance’s untimely demise, but he works to stay a few steps ahead of his grandfather and the organization he leads to ensure his wife stays safe. As Morgan tries to get back to work with her design company, and engage with her family and friends, she discovers that she’s a lot stronger than she thought. When Lance returns from the grave, Morgan’s love for him morphs into a mix of grief, rage, and longing, so their reunion blends passion with confrontation and hard emotional conversations.
I love the relationship between Lance and Morgan. It’s erotic, intense, and deeply emotional, with their physical connection remaining explosive even when trust between them is fractured. Their bond is built on long-standing love and loyalty, but in this book it shifts toward a more equal partnership as Morgan demands honesty, and Lance learns to stop making unilateral decisions for her own good. Their journey in this book begins with Morgan’s unbearable grief to Lance’s betrayal to a hard-won, battle-tested love where they stand together against those who wanted him buried and her broken. Morgan refuses to be just the protected wife, insisting on being Lance’s partner in truth, strategy, and retaliation. There’s lots of action, and my emotions were all over the place. A beautiful story and a hard-fought great ending.
January 11, 2026
What a way to end a series!!!
I was on the edge of my seat this whole damn book while trying not to cry!
In the final book of the Kinds & Rival series, we open to Lance's funeral, and an absolutely broken Morgan. Our normally fierce and spicy Morgan is a shell of herself having lost the love of her life. The entire crew is reeling as well but trying to hole their emotions together for Morgan. Morgan is now staying with Gwen and Atticus as she grieves but the grief is overwhelming and she's been rightfully wallowing in bed. Gwen spends most of her days trying to motivate and get Morgan to try and go back to at least some semblance of daily life but her efforts don't seem to work. Micah seems to be the only one who seems to bring Morgan back to life just a little bit but she instantly reverts back to grief-stricken widow once he leaves.
Shortly after, we see Lance (but what do you mean Lance?!!? Lance is dead!....yeahhhh nobody believed that), turns out Hector saved him from the car bomb and has been hiding him in a safehouse while he heals. But Lance being Lance, has eyes on Morgan and its killing him to stay hiding while Hector devises a plan of action. But that doesn't stop Lance from sneaking to see Morgan and while he doesn't wake her up, he's certainly helping her "dream" better. But as weird things start to happen in Morgan's every day life, Lance decides he can't hide anymore and needs to reveal himself and finish what's been haunting him for years. Lance's reveal is met with a variety of emotions, anger and happiness....but mostly anger. Once that's over everyone jumps into action to help Lance and Hector figure out how to take down their grandfather, but along the way secrets get revealed that change the course of their plan of action.
Lance of course decides to be the sacrificial lamb but not before making sure he had a plan in motion to make sure he came home to Morgan.
This ENTIRE series had me on the edge of my seat the entire time and this book ESPECIALLY gave me EVERY damn emotion in the world.
Thank you Nana for an ARC of this book as part of your ARC team in exchange for my honest review.
I was on the edge of my seat this whole damn book while trying not to cry!
In the final book of the Kinds & Rival series, we open to Lance's funeral, and an absolutely broken Morgan. Our normally fierce and spicy Morgan is a shell of herself having lost the love of her life. The entire crew is reeling as well but trying to hole their emotions together for Morgan. Morgan is now staying with Gwen and Atticus as she grieves but the grief is overwhelming and she's been rightfully wallowing in bed. Gwen spends most of her days trying to motivate and get Morgan to try and go back to at least some semblance of daily life but her efforts don't seem to work. Micah seems to be the only one who seems to bring Morgan back to life just a little bit but she instantly reverts back to grief-stricken widow once he leaves.
Shortly after, we see Lance (but what do you mean Lance?!!? Lance is dead!....yeahhhh nobody believed that), turns out Hector saved him from the car bomb and has been hiding him in a safehouse while he heals. But Lance being Lance, has eyes on Morgan and its killing him to stay hiding while Hector devises a plan of action. But that doesn't stop Lance from sneaking to see Morgan and while he doesn't wake her up, he's certainly helping her "dream" better. But as weird things start to happen in Morgan's every day life, Lance decides he can't hide anymore and needs to reveal himself and finish what's been haunting him for years. Lance's reveal is met with a variety of emotions, anger and happiness....but mostly anger. Once that's over everyone jumps into action to help Lance and Hector figure out how to take down their grandfather, but along the way secrets get revealed that change the course of their plan of action.
Lance of course decides to be the sacrificial lamb but not before making sure he had a plan in motion to make sure he came home to Morgan.
This ENTIRE series had me on the edge of my seat the entire time and this book ESPECIALLY gave me EVERY damn emotion in the world.
Thank you Nana for an ARC of this book as part of your ARC team in exchange for my honest review.
January 10, 2026
“Private Deal” by Nana Malone is a high octane, emotional, romantic suspense and the explosive conclusion to Kings and Rivals trilogy. We pick up from where book 2 ended, Morgan has been told her husband, Lance Blackwood, is dead. She even watches an empty coffin lowered into the ground. Left alone, she’s suddenly exposed to enemies Lance had always shielded her from.
Morgan is devastated, broken, and trying to rebuild her life while surrounded by enemies she never knew existed. But strange things start happening, A message appears in Lance’s handwriting that wasn’t there before. She sees shadows that look like him. She feels watched and she begins to question her sanity.
When Morgan is attacked by the enemies closing in on her, Lance can no longer stay hidden. He steps out of the darkness, alive, real, and very much still in love with her. Morgan is furious, heartbroken, relieved, and overwhelmed all at once. She feels betrayed that he let her mourn him. But the moment he touches her; all the reasons she fell for him come rushing back. Whilst Morgan struggles with the betrayal she also understands the danger they’re in. Lance is a possessive, lethal assassin who will burn the world down to protect Morgan, but she refuses to be a damsel in distress, she fights beside him.
Morgan and Lance’s journey is one huge rollercoaster ride. Emotions swing from grief to rage and passion. Thiers is an action packed, high octane romance with betrayals, resurrection, danger, and explosive chemistry alongside some twists you won’t see coming. What a brilliant end to this trilogy.
Morgan is devastated, broken, and trying to rebuild her life while surrounded by enemies she never knew existed. But strange things start happening, A message appears in Lance’s handwriting that wasn’t there before. She sees shadows that look like him. She feels watched and she begins to question her sanity.
When Morgan is attacked by the enemies closing in on her, Lance can no longer stay hidden. He steps out of the darkness, alive, real, and very much still in love with her. Morgan is furious, heartbroken, relieved, and overwhelmed all at once. She feels betrayed that he let her mourn him. But the moment he touches her; all the reasons she fell for him come rushing back. Whilst Morgan struggles with the betrayal she also understands the danger they’re in. Lance is a possessive, lethal assassin who will burn the world down to protect Morgan, but she refuses to be a damsel in distress, she fights beside him.
Morgan and Lance’s journey is one huge rollercoaster ride. Emotions swing from grief to rage and passion. Thiers is an action packed, high octane romance with betrayals, resurrection, danger, and explosive chemistry alongside some twists you won’t see coming. What a brilliant end to this trilogy.
January 13, 2026
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Lance and Morgan. This is also a book that you can't read without reading the others. This is the conclusion to their story, and you have to read Deep Pockets and High Stakes first because this is a three-book series. This book will pick up where we left off in High Stakes. Get ready for a great deal of growth from Morgan and I loved every second of that. I will warn you that the first chapter is absolutely going to rip your heart out. But if you read the ending of High Stakes, you know what is coming. Nana Malone has this magical way of making you feel what the characters are feeling and going through and you find yourself in the moment with Morgan. I do not know that I can talk about what actually goes on in this book and not tell you something that I shouldn't. I will tell you this is roller-coaster of a ride that you don't want to get off of. There are so many twists and turns in this book, and it will keep you on your toes. It is also filled with love and passion that will melt you. There is a host of characters that you are also going to love. This is a found family of chosen people and gosh I am so sad to leave the. However, I will be thinking about them for a while, I am sure. I have loved every book in this series. If you haven't started it, you really need to. If you have been waiting on this book, go get it and jump right on in. You're going to love it.
This is the story of Lance and Morgan. This is also a book that you can't read without reading the others. This is the conclusion to their story, and you have to read Deep Pockets and High Stakes first because this is a three-book series. This book will pick up where we left off in High Stakes. Get ready for a great deal of growth from Morgan and I loved every second of that. I will warn you that the first chapter is absolutely going to rip your heart out. But if you read the ending of High Stakes, you know what is coming. Nana Malone has this magical way of making you feel what the characters are feeling and going through and you find yourself in the moment with Morgan. I do not know that I can talk about what actually goes on in this book and not tell you something that I shouldn't. I will tell you this is roller-coaster of a ride that you don't want to get off of. There are so many twists and turns in this book, and it will keep you on your toes. It is also filled with love and passion that will melt you. There is a host of characters that you are also going to love. This is a found family of chosen people and gosh I am so sad to leave the. However, I will be thinking about them for a while, I am sure. I have loved every book in this series. If you haven't started it, you really need to. If you have been waiting on this book, go get it and jump right on in. You're going to love it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reading a gifted ARC via Nana Malone’s Influencer Crew. All opinions expressed are my own. PRIVATE DEAL is the third and final book in the KINGS AND RIVALS series by Nana Malone. After he fakes his death, Lance returns to protect his love from dangerous enemies. This is a spicy, open door, first person, dual POV, contemporary romantic suspense with tropes such as forced proximity, enemies to lovers, age gap, found family, heroine in danger, hero with a violent past, love transcends death, mafia-like criminal family, possessive hero, dark romance, billionaire romance, and interracial romance. I am a huge Nana Malone fan and have been waiting for this one to drop. The end of HIGH STAKES found our hero possibly caught in a car bomb, and this story begins with his funeral. Morgan was so very young to be a wife and then almost immediately a widow. Her grief was palpable causing a visceral reaction from me. Lance was unable to stay away from her despite doing so in order to keep her safe. The level of obsession for each of them was pretty high, and I was so proud of Morgan for figuring out that he was still among the living. I have enjoyed this couple from book one, but Lance kept screwing up and earning Morgan’s forgiveness. This time I think she was too relieved that he was alive. She already knew how she felt living without him. I would probably kill my husband if he pretended he was dead for my own good! It was apparent that this well written book was going to tie up their loose ends so that they could finally get their HEA and it was really satisfying, if not a bit too easy. I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy a dark romantic suspense and/or mafia romance, and enjoy the work of authors like Rebecca Zanetti, Rachel Van Dyken, and Jagger Cole.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book three and the conclusion to Lance and Morgan’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. This book starts where book two High Stakes left us with a car explosion and Morgan reeling from the shock of Lance’s death but things are not what they seem. Morgan is struggling with the death of Lance and also having strange dreams that seem so real that she is starting to believe that she is losing her mind but someone is working in the background to make sure that Morgan is safe and protected while things are being sorted out. The danger is definitely closer than they know but the team are working harder and are more determined than ever to finish what they started and take down Lance’s grandfather’s whole network so that they will all eventually be safe and now that they have everything they need but it is still dangerous and comes with many challenges, complications and consequences that they didn’t see coming. Wow what a total rollercoaster ride of action, deception, betrayal, suspense, danger along with many emotions. I couldn’t put this book down and read it in one sitting until the early hours of the morning and I felt like I was there with them all feeling and going through all the emotions and what a amazing ending to this incredible series that kept my attention throughout and I can’t wait to see what Nana Malone writes next and I will definitely be there to read it.
January 10, 2026
Private Deal is the third, and final, book in the Kings and Rivals series and brings a conclusion to the DuLac family drama.
Private Deal picks up right where High Stakes ended. Lance gets caught up in DuLac family business, against his wishes. He walked away from his family more than a decade ago, but family is for life, and death.
Morgan was supposed to be protected by the one and only family law. But when a madman is running the family, family law means nothing.
Secrets lurk in the American side of the family business. Lance and his brother, Hector, are on a mission to uncover these secrets. But will it end up costing them everything they love, and possibly their lives?
With the explosive ending to High Stakes, book 2 in the series, I could not imagine how Ms Malone was going to top it. But she does in Private Deal. And hold on to your pants as you board Mr Toad's Wild Ride.
It seems like Team Pendragon, and associates, love explosive surprises. And we are not disappointed in Private Deal. Be prepared to gasp in shock and cheer on this team. They are on a mission to right the wrongs that should never have been committed and to hold accountable those who sinned.
But that conclusion has left me feeling like a addict. I feel the need for more. I am not able to stop thinking about what is coming next. And when will we get it. And who will be involved. Ms Malone is simply a tease and makes her readers beg for more.
Private Deal picks up right where High Stakes ended. Lance gets caught up in DuLac family business, against his wishes. He walked away from his family more than a decade ago, but family is for life, and death.
Morgan was supposed to be protected by the one and only family law. But when a madman is running the family, family law means nothing.
Secrets lurk in the American side of the family business. Lance and his brother, Hector, are on a mission to uncover these secrets. But will it end up costing them everything they love, and possibly their lives?
With the explosive ending to High Stakes, book 2 in the series, I could not imagine how Ms Malone was going to top it. But she does in Private Deal. And hold on to your pants as you board Mr Toad's Wild Ride.
It seems like Team Pendragon, and associates, love explosive surprises. And we are not disappointed in Private Deal. Be prepared to gasp in shock and cheer on this team. They are on a mission to right the wrongs that should never have been committed and to hold accountable those who sinned.
But that conclusion has left me feeling like a addict. I feel the need for more. I am not able to stop thinking about what is coming next. And when will we get it. And who will be involved. Ms Malone is simply a tease and makes her readers beg for more.
January 11, 2026
The thrilling conclusion to The Kings and Rivals trilogy is here, and if you haven't devoured the first two books, drop everything and get reading before diving into Private Deal. Morgan and Lance's story is a page-turner that requires a full understanding of what's come before, and trust me, it's about to get a whole lot more intense. Morgan is adrift, surrounded by a sea of sharks all sensing blood in the water after recent events, with no one to protect her…... but is she really as alone as she first appears? Just as everyone thinks they're closing in on the grieving widow, they're in for a shocking revelation but not as much as Morgan herself.
This trilogy stands out as the best among the author's books that I've read, with a plot that gripped me from the start and kept me hooked despite the dreaded and frustrating cliffhangers. The fast-paced narrative was a thrilling ride full of unexpected twists and turns, and the heroine, Morgan, underwent significant emotional turmoil, which in turn allowed for some fantastic character development as she matured from an immature girl into a strong woman worthy of Lance, a hero who has surprised me throughout this trilogy, coming with hidden depths and secrets after his introduction in a previous series had me considering him little more than a playboy. A more than worthy finale to what has been a great story.
This trilogy stands out as the best among the author's books that I've read, with a plot that gripped me from the start and kept me hooked despite the dreaded and frustrating cliffhangers. The fast-paced narrative was a thrilling ride full of unexpected twists and turns, and the heroine, Morgan, underwent significant emotional turmoil, which in turn allowed for some fantastic character development as she matured from an immature girl into a strong woman worthy of Lance, a hero who has surprised me throughout this trilogy, coming with hidden depths and secrets after his introduction in a previous series had me considering him little more than a playboy. A more than worthy finale to what has been a great story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Private Deal is an emotional, and thrilling conclusion to Lance and Morgan's story! We find Morgan mourning Lance after the heartbreaking ending in book two. She doesn't know that Lance was rescued and has recovered, thanks to his brother, Hector. Lance and Hector are both looking out for Morgan while they try to find a way to take down their heartless grandfather, Charles DuLac. Lance can't stay away from Morgan, as he watches her losing herself in grief. When Morgan realizes he is alive, it takes more than a simple apology, but Lance is up to the task. Morgan has grown stronger and more self assured on the other side of her grief. As they gather information, they encounter twists and turns, along with distressing betrayals. Lance and Morgan are more determined to bring Charles down to protect themselves and all of their family and friends. This story continues to be fast paced, action packed and sizzling hot! Morgan is stronger and braver, and Lance is so sweet and swoony as he helps Morgan succeed. Their romance was exciting, suspenseful, and steamy, ending with several hints of stories to come, making me want more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nana Malone writes some of the best cliffhangers. They are almost always full of action, suspense, heartbreak, and that feeling of “did that just happen?” In the conclusion of the Kings and Rivals Series, a Camelot reimagining, the story doesn’t let up. More dark secrets are uncovered. There are incredibly passionate scenes—emotionally and in a spicy way. And Nana doesn’t just throw her readers a bone here and there. Her stories are thoughtfully designed, tying in the previous books' plots as well as the series before it within the same universe. And for the Nana Malone fans who have read her books outside this series, I must say I loved the Easter Eggs!
The Kings and Rival Series, Lance and Morgan specifically, are two of my favorite characters. Lance calls Morgan his “spitfire” for a reason. He’s the type of guy who supports her resilience, believes in her, and encourages her to build her strength. There was no doubt about it that Book 3 would be a winner for me. Private Deal was thrilling, masterfully plotted, and filled with delicious spice—just the way I like it.
Thank you to Author Nana Malone for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Kings and Rival Series, Lance and Morgan specifically, are two of my favorite characters. Lance calls Morgan his “spitfire” for a reason. He’s the type of guy who supports her resilience, believes in her, and encourages her to build her strength. There was no doubt about it that Book 3 would be a winner for me. Private Deal was thrilling, masterfully plotted, and filled with delicious spice—just the way I like it.
Thank you to Author Nana Malone for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
4.5⭐️
Private Deal is the exciting conclusion to the Kings and Rivals trilogy. But be sure to read the first two stories first, as this final part continues right where they left off. And it's a story you won’t want to miss!
As Morgan has just witnessed her husband, Lance, get into a car that blows up. Leaving her in shock, overwhelmed with grief and disbelief, and unable to accept that the man who both annoyed and loved her is gone.
However, things soon take a strange turn when Morgan begins to have mysterious dreams and feels as though someone is watching over her.
And she's not mistaken.
But danger is never far behind. Although plans are in place to protect Morgan and stop Lance's grandfather and his network from achieving their sinister goals, unexpected complications and consequences arise.
And with a thrilling rollercoaster of deception, betrayal, suspense, danger, and deep emotion, Private Deal was a page-turner I couldn't put down. I highly recommend this series to everyone!
My thanks to VPR for my ARC. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Private Deal is the exciting conclusion to the Kings and Rivals trilogy. But be sure to read the first two stories first, as this final part continues right where they left off. And it's a story you won’t want to miss!
As Morgan has just witnessed her husband, Lance, get into a car that blows up. Leaving her in shock, overwhelmed with grief and disbelief, and unable to accept that the man who both annoyed and loved her is gone.
However, things soon take a strange turn when Morgan begins to have mysterious dreams and feels as though someone is watching over her.
And she's not mistaken.
But danger is never far behind. Although plans are in place to protect Morgan and stop Lance's grandfather and his network from achieving their sinister goals, unexpected complications and consequences arise.
And with a thrilling rollercoaster of deception, betrayal, suspense, danger, and deep emotion, Private Deal was a page-turner I couldn't put down. I highly recommend this series to everyone!
My thanks to VPR for my ARC. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
January 11, 2026
OMG!! Private Deal had me on an emotional roller coaster. This is the continuation of Lance and Morgan's story, and all the pain, secrets, and hiding come to light. In the second book, the cliffy left us hanging when we expected the worst, and Morgan is coping with a loss, or so we thought. It isn't over for both of them; their life just got more complicated and intriguing. Lance's family has so many secrets, and slowly they begin to unravel. I love how suspenseful and action-packed their story became, and the spice between them is intense. I love how they worked together to bring down the real threat. Also, their story gets more interesting with the help of Hector, Lance's brother, and the truth that he gives Lance. I love their found family and how they will help Morgan and Lance, but I also love how they will protect them, too. I really enjoyed their story and can't wait to read more.
I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance reader copy.
I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance reader copy.
January 11, 2026
Here’s to the end of this Kings and Rivals Trilogy! Cheers!
Anyone who’s an avid reader would probably agree that books are better than movies. You experience the world through the eyes of the characters and there is, in general, so much more information available to the reader. It’s more intimate and nuanced.
But can a book be as cinematic as a movie? After reading Private Deal, I would have to say yes. This book and this series were so much fun, dynamic and spicy. It was well balanced and at times I felt like I was watching it on a screen and not reading. I experienced the action.
Lance and Morgan had chemistry. I loved watching them evolve as individuals and as a couple. The unexpected twists and turns caught me off guard and I loved every minute of this book. Nana Malone really went for the jugular.
I didn’t know that it was possible, but the ending of this series was very promising.
Anyone who’s an avid reader would probably agree that books are better than movies. You experience the world through the eyes of the characters and there is, in general, so much more information available to the reader. It’s more intimate and nuanced.
But can a book be as cinematic as a movie? After reading Private Deal, I would have to say yes. This book and this series were so much fun, dynamic and spicy. It was well balanced and at times I felt like I was watching it on a screen and not reading. I experienced the action.
Lance and Morgan had chemistry. I loved watching them evolve as individuals and as a couple. The unexpected twists and turns caught me off guard and I loved every minute of this book. Nana Malone really went for the jugular.
I didn’t know that it was possible, but the ending of this series was very promising.
January 11, 2026
What a conclusion to Kings and Rivals Series!!! In my opinion Nana Malone couldn't have done it better. Nana Malone did what Nana Malone does best suspense, rollercoaster ride, family, love and SEXUAL HEAT. There was a twist most readers won't see coming, I was wondering when it was going to come out. I didn't trust the person from the start, it took Nana Malone so long to reveal I was starting to wonder if I was wrong. WELL I WASN'T!!! Teehee! In my opinion Nana Malone did a great job of making me feel Morgan's grief and what she was going through. I could feel Morgan spinning a young widow grieving. I laughed when Lance finally reveals himself, Morgan got a couple of swings in. Once the team starts working together I couldn't put Private Deal down. My biggest complaint is I felt there was a lot of repetition. In my opinion Private Deal is the best of Kings and Rivals Series. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader's copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rated 4.5 Stars
Private Deal was one of my highly anticipated reads. It didn't disappoint. It kept me invested, fully engaged, on my toes and at the edge of my seat. I devoured it in one sitting, I'd been waiting too long for this conclusion to not read this cover to cover. I have zero regrets about my decision even though it's way past my bedtime. I loved it. Morgan and Lance's story did quite a number on me. I didn't expect it to emotionally affect me in the ways that it did. I didn't cry but it affected me on a soul deep level. It was well worth the wait even though I found it repetitive in certain parts. It was entertaining, twisty, steamy and left me wanting more. I can't wait to read the stories to follow especially after certain events. It was a great conclusion to this wild rollercoaster ride of a read.
Copy provided by author/PR company
Private Deal was one of my highly anticipated reads. It didn't disappoint. It kept me invested, fully engaged, on my toes and at the edge of my seat. I devoured it in one sitting, I'd been waiting too long for this conclusion to not read this cover to cover. I have zero regrets about my decision even though it's way past my bedtime. I loved it. Morgan and Lance's story did quite a number on me. I didn't expect it to emotionally affect me in the ways that it did. I didn't cry but it affected me on a soul deep level. It was well worth the wait even though I found it repetitive in certain parts. It was entertaining, twisty, steamy and left me wanting more. I can't wait to read the stories to follow especially after certain events. It was a great conclusion to this wild rollercoaster ride of a read.
Copy provided by author/PR company
January 9, 2026
The third book of the series has readers dealing with the fallout of the intense cliffhanger from the previous book. Without revealing too much, our main couple, Lance and Morgan, have a long road ahead before reaching their long-awaited HEA. There is plenty of action, amusing humor, and steamy romance, which are the author's signature elements. Even with my share of theories, I still audibly gasped as the story continued. Throughout the series, Lance and Morgan truly grew not only as people, but as a couple. Despite all the major obstacles, etc. Lance and Morgan did reach their HEA. Overall, I enjoyed the story and am patiently looking forward to the next adventure from the author.
January 9, 2026
“How do you break someone's heart to save their life?”
Within the first handful of pages…Nana wrecked me with her words….I didn’t know if I would survive the ride I anticipate I was about to be on.
“It was about protecting the people who mattered. The people who'd become your family when your real family tried to turn you into a weapon.”
So many emotions and feelings ripped through me as I made my way through this story. Fear, grief, anguish, anger, chaos, compassion, love, friendship, revenge, passion and anticipation. I was flying through the pages…I couldn’t get enough words fast enough…yet I didn’t want it to end!
“If this was some sick form of torture designed to push me over the edge, they were going to discover that I wasn't going down without a fight.”
Within the first handful of pages…Nana wrecked me with her words….I didn’t know if I would survive the ride I anticipate I was about to be on.
“It was about protecting the people who mattered. The people who'd become your family when your real family tried to turn you into a weapon.”
So many emotions and feelings ripped through me as I made my way through this story. Fear, grief, anguish, anger, chaos, compassion, love, friendship, revenge, passion and anticipation. I was flying through the pages…I couldn’t get enough words fast enough…yet I didn’t want it to end!
“If this was some sick form of torture designed to push me over the edge, they were going to discover that I wasn't going down without a fight.”
January 10, 2026
What a thrilling end to the Kings and Rivals trilogy! Private Deal picks up where book #2 left off on a jaw-dropping cliffhanger. The family drama, mystery, danger, and heart stopping action continues to keep you on the edge of your seat. The twists and turns are shocking. There are costly secrets and lies that threaten to destroy lives. There's unstoppable passion and a love that survives. I couldn't get enough of the characters and this addicting love story! It is angsty with a gripping plot that renders you unable to put it down! This is a must-read!!!
This is not a standalone. You must read the first two books in the series before reading this one. Trust me, you'll want to read it! I can't wait to see what this author has in store for us next.
This is not a standalone. You must read the first two books in the series before reading this one. Trust me, you'll want to read it! I can't wait to see what this author has in store for us next.
January 9, 2026
This is the third and conclusion to this impressive trilogy.
Morgan has been told that Lance is dead, and mourning, she is drowning in a world of enemies, that he always protected her from. A series of events have Morgan questioning her sanity, until Lance steps from the darkness.
This is a well written easy to read, action packed story, with family dynamics, friendships, emotions, loss, grief, tension, lies, betrayal, danger suspense, intrigue, secrets, challenges, vulnerability, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, twisted, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Morgan has been told that Lance is dead, and mourning, she is drowning in a world of enemies, that he always protected her from. A series of events have Morgan questioning her sanity, until Lance steps from the darkness.
This is a well written easy to read, action packed story, with family dynamics, friendships, emotions, loss, grief, tension, lies, betrayal, danger suspense, intrigue, secrets, challenges, vulnerability, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, twisted, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
January 12, 2026
This is the third and final book in the kings and rivals trilogy. This book begins with Morgan mourning the lost of Lance. However, she knows he is gone but feels as if someone is watching over her. Unbeknownst to Morgan, Lance was rescued and is recovering. This book was full of suspense, surprises, lots of spice and action. Lance’s family has so many secrets that are gradually revealed. Morgan goes through an emotional upheaval that has her growing and maturing from the naive girl she was in the previous books to a confident, secure woman who I now think is a worthy companion to Lance. Great book and great series. All books must be read in order to enjoy the reading experience.
January 13, 2026
The HEA does come but it takes so many twists and turns! Read the first two books if you haven't!
What a fantastic ending to this love story full of emotions, frustrations, and action! Nana makes us reread her stories so that we see all the details that were missed the first time through. So many little clues that sometimes tell the story and sometimes surprise the heck out of a reader! Lance and Morgan deserved an epic ending to their story and the author came through on that! And then she leaves just a little nugget at the end, keeping us wondering how the next group of stories will develop! Just love every story by this author!
What a fantastic ending to this love story full of emotions, frustrations, and action! Nana makes us reread her stories so that we see all the details that were missed the first time through. So many little clues that sometimes tell the story and sometimes surprise the heck out of a reader! Lance and Morgan deserved an epic ending to their story and the author came through on that! And then she leaves just a little nugget at the end, keeping us wondering how the next group of stories will develop! Just love every story by this author!
January 9, 2026
The first, and most important thing, you need to know about this book is that this is book 3 in a trilogy and absolutely cannot be read as a standalone. If this story is going to make any sense to you, you must read books 1 and 2 first. However, if you do, this is an intensely emotional story that will make it hard to put the book down. While Lance and Morgan are the stars of this trilogy, they have wonderful supporting characters surrounding them that make this a much fuller story and well worth reading.
January 9, 2026
This is the third book in Kings and Rivals series and the way trilogy wrap up is out of this world. The plot twists kept me glued to the pages.
Lance and Morgan, the changes both these characters go through is phenomenal. These two were perfect together, especially the way Morgan embraced and loved every part of Lance had my heart melting. And Lance finding his found family when his own family wasn’t the best.
The betrayal and suspense keeps you on your toes. The chemistry is scorching and keeps you hooked.
Lance and Morgan, the changes both these characters go through is phenomenal. These two were perfect together, especially the way Morgan embraced and loved every part of Lance had my heart melting. And Lance finding his found family when his own family wasn’t the best.
The betrayal and suspense keeps you on your toes. The chemistry is scorching and keeps you hooked.
January 9, 2026
This is the highly anticipated and desperately yearned for conclusion to Morgan and Lance's story and what decadently twisted, raw emotional, tantalizingly intense ride it has been. Be sure to read books 1 and 2 first because you do not want to miss a thing. Drama? Oh, yeah! Action and danger? Have a sturdy seat because you'll be cling to the edge of it!! How about steam? Sizzling!!! Revelations? Prepare to pick your jaw of the floor!!!! Add to all that enough Feels and swoon to give you a major book hangover but Wow, it's so worth it.
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