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Compulsion
They wake up hand-cuffed together in a serial killer’s lair…hardly the cute-meet of her dreams. But then again, her dreams are usually nightmares so...
Lily Gallo knows killers. She should, after all, because serial killers are her specialty. She’s the daughter of a notorious serial killer, and she’s made it her life’s work to study the brutal predators. And, recently, she’s been researching the offspring of serials. She’s looking for others who are just like she is. Her research has brought her into the life of reclusive billionaire Atlas Bennett. He’d refused her repeated requests for a meeting. She’d suspected he might be following in his father’s brutal footsteps. But now…
They’re both trapped, and they have to rely on each other for survival.
Atlas can’t believe it when he wakes up handcuffed to the beautiful and infuriating Lily. The woman thinks he’s as savage as his twisted father, but she has no clue what dark secrets he really holds. For the moment, though, escape is their priority. But once they get out of that hell, Lily will be his. He’d warned her to stay away. Now, it’s too late. Her fate is sealed.
A killer is after them both. To survive, they have to trust each other. They also have to stay very, very close to one another…
Atlas knows that his reaction to Lily isn’t normal. The lust he feels is too strong, too consuming, but she calls to the primitive darkness within Atlas that he’s tried to hide from the rest of the world. He’s going to need that darkness because a killer is hunting him…and Lily. A predator who is intent on taking out the children of serial killers. Innocence and guilt doesn’t matter. Only survival does. The killer has uncovered Lily’s research, and he’s using it to track his prey. As each day passes, he’s also growing increasingly obsessed with Lily.
Being prey wasn’t on her agenda.
Lily’s mother is the most infamous female serial killer of modern times, and her mother passed on more than a few of her dangerous traits to Lily. Lily has no intention of being some helpless victim, but she will trap the killer who is on her trail. She’ll also stick close to Atlas because she knows he holds plenty of secrets. Fair enough. She’s got secrets, too. Atlas stirs a part of her that she has tried to fight her entire life. Wild, forbidden, and dangerous, he is a lover she can’t resist. He may just be the perfect partner for her…unless, of course, she turns out to be dead wrong about him.
Because some people carry darkness, some people carry sins…and there are some monsters that you never see coming, not until it’s far too late.
Author’s Danger, serious steam, and two lovers who share a passion that will obliterate everything else…He’s possessive, dangerous, and willing to kill. She’s methodical, controlled, and fighting to hide her true self. When they come together, their worlds will shift, their lust will consume them, and they will either be the perfect team…or the most diabolical couple to walk the earth. Ah, fun times are ahead.
Lily Gallo knows killers. She should, after all, because serial killers are her specialty. She’s the daughter of a notorious serial killer, and she’s made it her life’s work to study the brutal predators. And, recently, she’s been researching the offspring of serials. She’s looking for others who are just like she is. Her research has brought her into the life of reclusive billionaire Atlas Bennett. He’d refused her repeated requests for a meeting. She’d suspected he might be following in his father’s brutal footsteps. But now…
They’re both trapped, and they have to rely on each other for survival.
Atlas can’t believe it when he wakes up handcuffed to the beautiful and infuriating Lily. The woman thinks he’s as savage as his twisted father, but she has no clue what dark secrets he really holds. For the moment, though, escape is their priority. But once they get out of that hell, Lily will be his. He’d warned her to stay away. Now, it’s too late. Her fate is sealed.
A killer is after them both. To survive, they have to trust each other. They also have to stay very, very close to one another…
Atlas knows that his reaction to Lily isn’t normal. The lust he feels is too strong, too consuming, but she calls to the primitive darkness within Atlas that he’s tried to hide from the rest of the world. He’s going to need that darkness because a killer is hunting him…and Lily. A predator who is intent on taking out the children of serial killers. Innocence and guilt doesn’t matter. Only survival does. The killer has uncovered Lily’s research, and he’s using it to track his prey. As each day passes, he’s also growing increasingly obsessed with Lily.
Being prey wasn’t on her agenda.
Lily’s mother is the most infamous female serial killer of modern times, and her mother passed on more than a few of her dangerous traits to Lily. Lily has no intention of being some helpless victim, but she will trap the killer who is on her trail. She’ll also stick close to Atlas because she knows he holds plenty of secrets. Fair enough. She’s got secrets, too. Atlas stirs a part of her that she has tried to fight her entire life. Wild, forbidden, and dangerous, he is a lover she can’t resist. He may just be the perfect partner for her…unless, of course, she turns out to be dead wrong about him.
Because some people carry darkness, some people carry sins…and there are some monsters that you never see coming, not until it’s far too late.
Author’s Danger, serious steam, and two lovers who share a passion that will obliterate everything else…He’s possessive, dangerous, and willing to kill. She’s methodical, controlled, and fighting to hide her true self. When they come together, their worlds will shift, their lust will consume them, and they will either be the perfect team…or the most diabolical couple to walk the earth. Ah, fun times are ahead.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
74 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
315 books6,816 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 10, 2026
This was next level Cynthia Eden!
Let me start with Atlas because…wow! He was intense, controlled, dangerous in a quiet, coiled way that pulled me in even as I wondered if I should back away. Everything about him felt layered and slightly untrustworthy, and I actually loved how I could never fully relax around him, even when he was being protective or tender. It felt as though he were constantly holding something back, and that edge made him ridiculously compelling.
And Lilly? Again, I wasn’t sure if I could completely trust her even as I adored her. She was smart, resilient, and there was something about her strength that made me question its true origins. She wasn’t naive, but she also wasn't hardened in a way that made her closed off.
They both felt as though they were living in morally gray territory, each carrying secrets and shadows that blurred the line between who they really are and who they appear to be. I was never sure what would be revealed about their pasts, or whether the darkness around them was real or just a carefully constructed illusion.
This had a sharp, gritty edge that I wasn’t expecting, and I loved how bold it felt. The action is fast, the tension never lets up, and the twists stunned me. This was dark, sexy, suspenseful, and nothing like I expected. And I loved every moment.
Multi POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Let me start with Atlas because…wow! He was intense, controlled, dangerous in a quiet, coiled way that pulled me in even as I wondered if I should back away. Everything about him felt layered and slightly untrustworthy, and I actually loved how I could never fully relax around him, even when he was being protective or tender. It felt as though he were constantly holding something back, and that edge made him ridiculously compelling.
And Lilly? Again, I wasn’t sure if I could completely trust her even as I adored her. She was smart, resilient, and there was something about her strength that made me question its true origins. She wasn’t naive, but she also wasn't hardened in a way that made her closed off.
They both felt as though they were living in morally gray territory, each carrying secrets and shadows that blurred the line between who they really are and who they appear to be. I was never sure what would be revealed about their pasts, or whether the darkness around them was real or just a carefully constructed illusion.
This had a sharp, gritty edge that I wasn’t expecting, and I loved how bold it felt. The action is fast, the tension never lets up, and the twists stunned me. This was dark, sexy, suspenseful, and nothing like I expected. And I loved every moment.
Multi POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
February 10, 2026
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, so I went in with high expectations, and I’m happy to say that I wasn’t disappointed!
Based on the premise, I did expect something a little different. I was hoping for a stronger hate-to-love dynamic while Lily and Atlas were trapped together, but even without that focus, the story still surprised me and kept me engaged.
Lily was one of my favorite parts of the book. I really enjoyed seeing her internal struggle, especially her experience as the daughter of a serial killer (this isn’t a spoiler). The focus on the families and children of serial killers was refreshing and added an interesting layer to the story, especially since these perspectives are often overlooked.
Atlas was also a great character. He has depth, secrets, and a sense of humor that balances the darker elements of the story. His chemistry with Lily is intense and plays a big role in keeping the story engaging.
The mystery itself didn’t completely surprise me, as I guessed the villain fairly early on, but that didn’t take away from my enjoyment. Overall, this was another solid read from Cynthia Eden. I finished the book satisfied and definitely looking forward to what comes next, especially Sloane’s story.
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒕!
Based on the premise, I did expect something a little different. I was hoping for a stronger hate-to-love dynamic while Lily and Atlas were trapped together, but even without that focus, the story still surprised me and kept me engaged.
Lily was one of my favorite parts of the book. I really enjoyed seeing her internal struggle, especially her experience as the daughter of a serial killer (this isn’t a spoiler). The focus on the families and children of serial killers was refreshing and added an interesting layer to the story, especially since these perspectives are often overlooked.
Atlas was also a great character. He has depth, secrets, and a sense of humor that balances the darker elements of the story. His chemistry with Lily is intense and plays a big role in keeping the story engaging.
The mystery itself didn’t completely surprise me, as I guessed the villain fairly early on, but that didn’t take away from my enjoyment. Overall, this was another solid read from Cynthia Eden. I finished the book satisfied and definitely looking forward to what comes next, especially Sloane’s story.
𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒍𝒚 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒕!
February 17, 2026
4.5🌟!
What a fun ride it was.
As a daughter of serial killer, brilliant psychologist Doctor Lily Gallo is fascinated by offsprings of serial killers. This leads her to meet Atlas Bennett, a mysterious and dangerous billionaire shrouded in grey. For her research purpose, she tries to meet Atlas several times but each time he evades her. Until they wake up, cuffed together in a dangerous Killer’s dungeon. Now all the bets are Off as both Lilly and Atlas try to protect each other and stop the killer.
I loved that both Lilly and Atlas were badass. They were equally obsessed with each other. While Lilly was lightly stalking Atlas and constantly trying to arrange a meeting with him, he was trying his best to not stalk HER and get obsessed. It was kinda hilarious. I loved Atlas’s dry and at times dark humour. His past was so heartbreaking.
Another character that fascinated me was, Lilly’s mother- Magnolia. Her character was written fantastically and I loved the insight to her killer mind. I was salivating over her meeting with Atlas and it didn’t disappoint.
Suspense was done well but I did guess the killer.
Overall a very enjoyable romance.
-Romantic suspense.
-Protagonists are offsprings of Serial killers.
-Serial killer on loose.
-Found family, fast paced.
-Touch her and die & Touch him and die!
-They are both obsessed and protective of each other.
-Jealousy.
-Standalone, TW and safe.
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
What a fun ride it was.
As a daughter of serial killer, brilliant psychologist Doctor Lily Gallo is fascinated by offsprings of serial killers. This leads her to meet Atlas Bennett, a mysterious and dangerous billionaire shrouded in grey. For her research purpose, she tries to meet Atlas several times but each time he evades her. Until they wake up, cuffed together in a dangerous Killer’s dungeon. Now all the bets are Off as both Lilly and Atlas try to protect each other and stop the killer.
I loved that both Lilly and Atlas were badass. They were equally obsessed with each other. While Lilly was lightly stalking Atlas and constantly trying to arrange a meeting with him, he was trying his best to not stalk HER and get obsessed. It was kinda hilarious. I loved Atlas’s dry and at times dark humour. His past was so heartbreaking.
Another character that fascinated me was, Lilly’s mother- Magnolia. Her character was written fantastically and I loved the insight to her killer mind. I was salivating over her meeting with Atlas and it didn’t disappoint.
Suspense was done well but I did guess the killer.
Overall a very enjoyable romance.
-Romantic suspense.
-Protagonists are offsprings of Serial killers.
-Serial killer on loose.
-Found family, fast paced.
-Touch her and die & Touch him and die!
-They are both obsessed and protective of each other.
-Jealousy.
-Standalone, TW and safe.
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
February 10, 2026
Lily Gallo is the daughter of a serial killer. A Doctor investigating children of serial killers.
I can see innocence staring back at me even when you are so sure that your soul is all dark.
Atlas Bennett billionaire. Son of a killer. They both have a dark side.
Mostly because love wasn’t a real thing. But obsession was, and he already knew she was going to be his greatest obsession.
They join forces to catch the evil preying on targets just for their bloodline. In the process find out that they are human after all.
“I’ll file that away in my Points to Know About Atlas book.”
This story was different but the same fantastic quality that I always expect from Ms Eden. Character interaction off the charts and a storyline that keeps you guessing throughout.
I can see innocence staring back at me even when you are so sure that your soul is all dark.
Atlas Bennett billionaire. Son of a killer. They both have a dark side.
Mostly because love wasn’t a real thing. But obsession was, and he already knew she was going to be his greatest obsession.
They join forces to catch the evil preying on targets just for their bloodline. In the process find out that they are human after all.
“I’ll file that away in my Points to Know About Atlas book.”
This story was different but the same fantastic quality that I always expect from Ms Eden. Character interaction off the charts and a storyline that keeps you guessing throughout.
February 19, 2026
Compulsion is the first installment in the new Poison In My Veins series by Cynthia Eden.
I read it in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down!
The plot is very well done and kept me on the edge of my seat!
The tension between the two main characters Atlas Bennet and Lily Galo was very intense from the start and sparks where flying everywhere! I liked the parts where Lily visited her serial killer mom in prison and thus giving us more background to the story.
Her character was very well done, scary because I almost got to like her.
Atlas and Lily are both strong characters and they are perfect for each other!
I ‘m really looking forward to the next book in this series and meanwhile read this book a second time because I loved it!
I recieved this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion.
I read it in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down!
The plot is very well done and kept me on the edge of my seat!
The tension between the two main characters Atlas Bennet and Lily Galo was very intense from the start and sparks where flying everywhere! I liked the parts where Lily visited her serial killer mom in prison and thus giving us more background to the story.
Her character was very well done, scary because I almost got to like her.
Atlas and Lily are both strong characters and they are perfect for each other!
I ‘m really looking forward to the next book in this series and meanwhile read this book a second time because I loved it!
I recieved this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion.
February 14, 2026
This book hooked me from the beginning. I loved this couple. Both individually and together. I hope they are involved in Sloane’s book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🇫🇷French & English reviews🇬🇧
*Cette chronique est basée sur un NetGalley ARC en échange d'un avis neutre et honnête*
📖Genre & Tropes📖 : Suspense romance x serial killer plot x morally grey characters x dark past x touch her and die x billionaire hero x spicy
Le premier tome d’une nouvelle série à suspense avec des personnages plus que moralement discutables mais délicieusement attachants !!
Quand j’ai découvert que Cynthia Eden allait publier une nouvelle série et que le premier tome concerné les enfants de serial killer, j’étais hyper excitée et quand j’ai reçu cet ARC j’étais AUX ANGES !!
Maintenant je regrette seulement d’avoir lu ce tome trop vite ><
Il y a TOUT pour plaire :
- une intrigue haletante et prenante avec plein de rebondissements et de tensions (quelqu’un a dit bombes ?)
- des personnages avec des passés plus que sombres et des tendances meurtrières assumées
- une romance étrangement mignonne (voir Atlas succomber au côté vulnérable de Lily … <3) mais aussi très sexy
- mention spéciale pour la maman serial killer <3
Est-ce que j’ai besoin du tome avec Sloane la meilleure amie maintenant ?? OUI OUI OUI ><
Bref, une romance à suspense un brin sombre, terriblement sexy et pleine de tensions à lire sans modération !
PS : to the publisher and Netgalley, thank you so much for the ARC =D
Pour plus de jolies chroniques 😘 : Mon Bujo tout en couleurs et en livres
⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐
*This review is based on a NetGalley ARC in exchange for a neutral and honest review*
The first book of a new suspense series with morally grey but deliciously endearing characters !!
When I found out Cynthia Eden was going to publish a new series and that the first volume was about the children of serial killers, I was super excited, and when I received this ARC, I was OVER THE MOON !!
Now I only regret reading this book too quickly ><
It has EVERYTHING to please :
- a gripping and captivating plot with plenty of twists and turns and tension (did someone say bombs ?)
- characters with incredibly dark pasts and some strong murderous tendencies
- a strangely cute romance (see Atlas succumb to Lily's vulnerable side … <3) but also very sexy (« fine » =D)
- special mention for the serial killer mom <3
Do I need the volume with Sloane, the best friend, now ?? YES YES YES ><
In short, a slightly dark, incredibly sexy, and suspenseful romance to read without moderation !
PS : To the publisher and Netgalley, thank you so much for the ARC =D
For more pretty reviews 😘: My Bujo, all in color and books
*Cette chronique est basée sur un NetGalley ARC en échange d'un avis neutre et honnête*
📖Genre & Tropes📖 : Suspense romance x serial killer plot x morally grey characters x dark past x touch her and die x billionaire hero x spicy
Le premier tome d’une nouvelle série à suspense avec des personnages plus que moralement discutables mais délicieusement attachants !!
Quand j’ai découvert que Cynthia Eden allait publier une nouvelle série et que le premier tome concerné les enfants de serial killer, j’étais hyper excitée et quand j’ai reçu cet ARC j’étais AUX ANGES !!
Maintenant je regrette seulement d’avoir lu ce tome trop vite ><
Il y a TOUT pour plaire :
- une intrigue haletante et prenante avec plein de rebondissements et de tensions (quelqu’un a dit bombes ?)
- des personnages avec des passés plus que sombres et des tendances meurtrières assumées
- une romance étrangement mignonne (voir Atlas succomber au côté vulnérable de Lily … <3) mais aussi très sexy
- mention spéciale pour la maman serial killer <3
Est-ce que j’ai besoin du tome avec Sloane la meilleure amie maintenant ?? OUI OUI OUI ><
Bref, une romance à suspense un brin sombre, terriblement sexy et pleine de tensions à lire sans modération !
PS : to the publisher and Netgalley, thank you so much for the ARC =D
Pour plus de jolies chroniques 😘 : Mon Bujo tout en couleurs et en livres
⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐~⭐
*This review is based on a NetGalley ARC in exchange for a neutral and honest review*
The first book of a new suspense series with morally grey but deliciously endearing characters !!
When I found out Cynthia Eden was going to publish a new series and that the first volume was about the children of serial killers, I was super excited, and when I received this ARC, I was OVER THE MOON !!
Now I only regret reading this book too quickly ><
It has EVERYTHING to please :
- a gripping and captivating plot with plenty of twists and turns and tension (did someone say bombs ?)
- characters with incredibly dark pasts and some strong murderous tendencies
- a strangely cute romance (see Atlas succumb to Lily's vulnerable side … <3) but also very sexy (« fine » =D)
- special mention for the serial killer mom <3
Do I need the volume with Sloane, the best friend, now ?? YES YES YES ><
In short, a slightly dark, incredibly sexy, and suspenseful romance to read without moderation !
PS : To the publisher and Netgalley, thank you so much for the ARC =D
For more pretty reviews 😘: My Bujo, all in color and books
February 10, 2026
This one was a bit hard for me in the beginning. Not sure why. I think when I started reading it, I was so busy thinking about the fact that we have a new story that I wasn't really reading the words on the page. Silly me I know. Once I stopped that and went back to the first page and read it again, I found that I was loving it. The story is a bit darker than what she's been writing. More like the stories she wrote for Avon back in the day. I loved those.
Not only is the story a good one you will find that the humor is so good in this one. I know, humor when people are killing but sometimes you need humor or fall apart.
The characters a great in this story. I loved both Atlas and Lily. They are perfect together. Not only do they get each other, but they are allowed to be themselves around each other. No hiding, not pretending. They both will do anything for the other.
There is a lot of who did what in this story that helps keep it moving and you guessing. The story movies quickly which helps keep the suspense front and center. You keep wanting to know what's going on.
I think my favorite part of the story is when Atlas tells the FBI for the second time "I am a victim" when you read it for yourself, you'll get it. I was so glad I wasn't drinking something. I don't know in my head I pictured it the way I did but I found it so funny. As a whole this is a kick-ass story that I think you'll really enjoy. Perfect start to a new series and I can't wait for the for the next story in the series.
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ARC received for an honest review
February 11, 2026
Compulsion was a second level Cynthia Eden novel. Lily Galo and Atlas Bennett are both children of serial killers, they both have a dark side, but are not the same as their parents. Lily has made it her life’s work to study serial killers and their children; she wants to make sure she is nothing like her mother. She wants happiness and to find a soul mate that understands her and accepts her for who she is.
Atlas is the son of a serial killer, a billionaire, and cannot stop thinking about Lily. He is kidnapped handcuffed to Lily, which was not on purpose, because he was distracted. When they manage to escape, they have more questions than answers, as the Feds start investigating.
Lily and Atlas are complex characters, there are layers to them both, and there are so many sparks. I loved the relationship that they build together, how they both know where they came from but accept each other for who they are. There is so much going on in this book, but it just keeps getting better and better, keeping you on the edge of your seat. I will say, I was surprised to find out who the bad guy was, I was not expecting the ending. I highly recommend this book and be prepared not to get anything else done. I could not put this book down.
Received ARC from author for honest review.
Atlas is the son of a serial killer, a billionaire, and cannot stop thinking about Lily. He is kidnapped handcuffed to Lily, which was not on purpose, because he was distracted. When they manage to escape, they have more questions than answers, as the Feds start investigating.
Lily and Atlas are complex characters, there are layers to them both, and there are so many sparks. I loved the relationship that they build together, how they both know where they came from but accept each other for who they are. There is so much going on in this book, but it just keeps getting better and better, keeping you on the edge of your seat. I will say, I was surprised to find out who the bad guy was, I was not expecting the ending. I highly recommend this book and be prepared not to get anything else done. I could not put this book down.
Received ARC from author for honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lily Gallo knows all about serial killers. She studies them because her mother was one. Now she is studying the children of serial killers. The other children of serial killers are being killed and Lily believes that’s why Atlas was kidnapped and she attacked the kidnapper and ends up kidnapped too. She wakes up handcuffed to Atlas Bennett, the son of a serial killer also. Lily has been trying to get an interview with him but Atlas keeps turning her down. Atlas is a billionaire and a recluse. Lily becomes an obsession for Atlas. As they are being rescued by Atlas’ security team, there is an explosion in the cabin they were in. Atlas wants Lily to stay with him and he’ll tell her anything she wants to know. The killer has turned his sights to Lily but Atlas will scorch the earth to find her.
New series by Ms. Eden. You can never go wrong with one of her books. Steamy. Action. Secrets. I figured out who the killer was early on. Atlas is protective and possessive who’ll do anything for Lily. Lily is beautiful, smart, and so very serious.
* VOLUNTARILY READ AND REVIEWED FOR THE AUTHOR *
New series by Ms. Eden. You can never go wrong with one of her books. Steamy. Action. Secrets. I figured out who the killer was early on. Atlas is protective and possessive who’ll do anything for Lily. Lily is beautiful, smart, and so very serious.
* VOLUNTARILY READ AND REVIEWED FOR THE AUTHOR *
February 10, 2026
I voluntarily reviewed a copy from the author of "COMPULSION" WOW!!! What an interesting, intriguing, intense, twisted rollercoaster ride this story takes you on buckle up you'll need it.
Atlas Bennett a Billionaire recluse & is the of a Serial Killer who trys to get rid of other serial killers someone is killing the children of serial killers.
Lily Gallo is the daughter of a famous female serial killer & shes trying to see what serial children are like are they following in their parents footsteps.
Lily trys to attack the killer who kidnapped Atlas & end up handcuffed together, both try to save themselves he'll do anything to save her from this serial killer.
Atlas's Security Team come to rescue them in time because their an explosion in the cabin they were in & Atlas wants Lily to stay with him for protection also he'll give her an interview.
Will Alas & Lily survive the serial killer that wants her dead to get a HEA you so don't want miss this read, Cynthia Eden never disappoints.
Atlas Bennett a Billionaire recluse & is the of a Serial Killer who trys to get rid of other serial killers someone is killing the children of serial killers.
Lily Gallo is the daughter of a famous female serial killer & shes trying to see what serial children are like are they following in their parents footsteps.
Lily trys to attack the killer who kidnapped Atlas & end up handcuffed together, both try to save themselves he'll do anything to save her from this serial killer.
Atlas's Security Team come to rescue them in time because their an explosion in the cabin they were in & Atlas wants Lily to stay with him for protection also he'll give her an interview.
Will Alas & Lily survive the serial killer that wants her dead to get a HEA you so don't want miss this read, Cynthia Eden never disappoints.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 HUMONGOUS STARS!! Well done Ms. Eden. Another outrageously well written suspense!
Dr. Lily Gallo has made researching serial killers her specialty. With a mother on death row for the murder of over twelve men, Lily has become an expert in the behaviors of serial predators as well as their children. Although research has her looking into the life of reclusive billionaire Atlas Bennett, he has repeatedly refused her requests for a meeting. Lily has reason to suspect he might be following in his father’s horrific footsteps. When she finds herself trapped in a horribly dangerous situation with the man, it quickly becomes obvious they will have to rely on each other for survival.
Atlas Bennett has fought his way out of the worst possible beginning a child could experience and left him with the scars to prove it. He worked hard to make something of himself and now has thousands of employees that rely on him. What he doesn’t want is to be constantly reminded of who his father was and people wondering just how far the apple fell from his family tree. Although he has refused Dr. Lily Gallo’s requests for an interview he is surprised the woman consumes so much of his thoughts. Surprising, since he doesn’t feel empathy, love or much of any emotion.
When Atlas wakes up handcuffed to the beautiful and annoying Lily in a mad man’s basement they are both quickly aware that a predator who is intent on taking out the children of serial killers has singled out them both in his ironic vendetta to rid the world of such evil. Now, to survive, they will have to work together if they have any hope of escape, and to eventually put away a new kind of serial killer.
I received an ARC and voluntarily offer this review.
Dr. Lily Gallo has made researching serial killers her specialty. With a mother on death row for the murder of over twelve men, Lily has become an expert in the behaviors of serial predators as well as their children. Although research has her looking into the life of reclusive billionaire Atlas Bennett, he has repeatedly refused her requests for a meeting. Lily has reason to suspect he might be following in his father’s horrific footsteps. When she finds herself trapped in a horribly dangerous situation with the man, it quickly becomes obvious they will have to rely on each other for survival.
Atlas Bennett has fought his way out of the worst possible beginning a child could experience and left him with the scars to prove it. He worked hard to make something of himself and now has thousands of employees that rely on him. What he doesn’t want is to be constantly reminded of who his father was and people wondering just how far the apple fell from his family tree. Although he has refused Dr. Lily Gallo’s requests for an interview he is surprised the woman consumes so much of his thoughts. Surprising, since he doesn’t feel empathy, love or much of any emotion.
When Atlas wakes up handcuffed to the beautiful and annoying Lily in a mad man’s basement they are both quickly aware that a predator who is intent on taking out the children of serial killers has singled out them both in his ironic vendetta to rid the world of such evil. Now, to survive, they will have to work together if they have any hope of escape, and to eventually put away a new kind of serial killer.
I received an ARC and voluntarily offer this review.
February 8, 2026
The children of serial killers...
Cynthia Eden is at her finest when she is writing the anti-hero, unwilling hero, male lead. In this case, its Atlas Bennet, son of an infamous serial killer. He is his father's son, after all. He takes out other serial killers, much like Dexter. But what drives this story is Lily Gallo. Daughter of an infamous female serial killer. She is so much more complex, she's dissecting the children of serial killers. She is after all, her mother's daughter and will do what it takes if any children of serial killers slip too close to their parentage. But right now, handcuffed together, they are in a fight to saver their own lives from another serial killer. Whew. Somehow, even groggy, Atlas as a Jones for Lily. He will kill to keep her safe. But so would Lily.
Highly recommend.
Buckle up, its a bumpy ride
Cynthia Eden is at her finest when she is writing the anti-hero, unwilling hero, male lead. In this case, its Atlas Bennet, son of an infamous serial killer. He is his father's son, after all. He takes out other serial killers, much like Dexter. But what drives this story is Lily Gallo. Daughter of an infamous female serial killer. She is so much more complex, she's dissecting the children of serial killers. She is after all, her mother's daughter and will do what it takes if any children of serial killers slip too close to their parentage. But right now, handcuffed together, they are in a fight to saver their own lives from another serial killer. Whew. Somehow, even groggy, Atlas as a Jones for Lily. He will kill to keep her safe. But so would Lily.
Highly recommend.
Buckle up, its a bumpy ride
Review of advance copy received from Author
Compulsion is the 1st book in the Poison In My Veins series and what can I say but WOW! I was completely spellbound from the first word and compelled to read the book in one sitting. Lily and Atlas are incredibly complex characters and I loved the sparks, the witty dialogue, the growing love and absolute devotion at the end. Woven in are plenty of red herrings, explosions both in out of the bedroom, surprising revelations and the introduction of fascinating side characters we'll see again in future books. The bar for Sloane's story is very high indeed. Can't wait! I was fortunate to have received an early copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
February 13, 2026
WOWZER! Cynthia Eden continues to pump out some of the best breath-stealers, mind-benders and nail-biters I've had the pleasure of reading! And with the first book in her newest series, "Poison In My Veins", she has completely sent chills and thrills up and down my spine. "Compulsion" is filled with the stuff nightmares are made of when you close your eyes. It was an up-all -nighter! Thankfully, I am retired!
An intensive and puzzling whodunit, crazy and smoking hot chemistry between the two main characters who share similarities in their childhoods and an Epilogue that is an eye-opening wrap-up. I can hardly wait for Book 2!
February 13, 2026
I loved this book. Lily is interviewing other children of serial killers. But who’s the target now? Is it she or is it Atlas who’s in the cross hairs of a serial killer? Loved the chemistry between Lily and Atlas. Loved how quickly he’s become possessive of her, but will he ever admit to loving her? Loved being shocked at who the killer was. Thankfully there’s a very happy ever after. I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy and I recommend this book.
February 17, 2026
I liked the story. I just have problems with the language. It seems that the author's favorite word is "f*ck" or some version of it.
As with another reader, I had figured out the bad guy long before the end of the book.
I like the fact that the author does not require one to wait for the next installment as other authors do. I do not like having to wait a year or more for the next book.
A good read.
As with another reader, I had figured out the bad guy long before the end of the book.
I like the fact that the author does not require one to wait for the next installment as other authors do. I do not like having to wait a year or more for the next book.
A good read.
February 18, 2026
Loved It!
This is book one in the Poison in My Veins series by Cynthia Eden. I don’t think Cynthia Eden can write a bad book. Whenever a new one comes out I rush to get it and devour it. And that’s what I did with this one. This book had fantastic fully developed main characters that you cared about and wanted to follow along with on their journey together. There were thrills and mysteries and humor. This was just another fantastic book by Cynthia Eden!
This is book one in the Poison in My Veins series by Cynthia Eden. I don’t think Cynthia Eden can write a bad book. Whenever a new one comes out I rush to get it and devour it. And that’s what I did with this one. This book had fantastic fully developed main characters that you cared about and wanted to follow along with on their journey together. There were thrills and mysteries and humor. This was just another fantastic book by Cynthia Eden!
February 12, 2026
Well that was a dark, wickedly fun book! Atlas and Lily were perfect together. A few triggers but doesn’t detract. Mostly off page. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series, “Temptation” coming in June about Sloane and Preston.
February 15, 2026
A pretty typical Cynthia Eden romantic suspense with a bad boy hero and a decent amount of action. The killer was kind of obvious despite the deflection attempts, but otherwise I enjoyed it a great deal. I look forward to the next one in the series.
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February 12, 2026review text for 4819
February 15, 2026
superb
Cynthia Eden has perfected romantic suspense! Compulsion is another great start of what I can see will be another compelling series. I loved Atlas and Lily's story.
Cynthia Eden has perfected romantic suspense! Compulsion is another great start of what I can see will be another compelling series. I loved Atlas and Lily's story.
February 15, 2026
Excellent, gripping, deliciously wicked read. Atlas and Lily were perfect together, they balanced each other's light and dark sides beautifully. True soulmates. I cannot wait to read Sloane's story.
Currently reading
February 19, 2026Okay I am reading this 20% in and I think I know who the serial killer was. I hope.I'm wrong.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2026
WOW! Brilliant….
All I can say is ‘WOW’ this new series is of a standard brilliantly above the usual stories I gave read by this author. Highly recommended.
All I can say is ‘WOW’ this new series is of a standard brilliantly above the usual stories I gave read by this author. Highly recommended.
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