What do you think?
Rate this book
Quinlan Empire #4
Wicked Deception
When the Irish assassin falls for his neurodivergent girl next door, who keeps emotional support plants...
I’m the reaper my enemies never see coming.
Then I go home to an empty flat where the silence has turned deafening.
That changes when my beautiful, unhinged neighbor,
who’s decided I’m her boyfriend,
starts breaking into my home.
And leaving me plants.
It’s harmless. She’s harmless.
Until the night she’s in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Fallon Nova should’ve run when she saw me kill a man.
Instead, she stayed and patched me up.
Now she’s a witness.
And witnesses don’t live long in my world.
When all she wants is a date for the holidays in exchange for her silence,
I tell myself I can fake it.
But pretending ends the second she kisses me
and makes me want things I can’t have.
I want her. All of her in ways that have me in a chokehold.
She might have fallen first, but I fall harder.
And when someone from her past tries to take her away from me,
everyone will see what kind of monster loving Fallon has turned me into...
Wicked Deception is the final book in the Quinlan Empire series and can be read as a STANDALONE.
🪴Irish Mafia Assassin
🪴Neurodivergent FMC
🪴Fake Dating
🪴Stalking
🪴Forced Proximity
🪴Slow Burn
🪴Opposites Attract
🪴Forehead Kisses
🪴F*k It
🪴Touch her and die
🪴Candy Cane Kink
Follow Deborah for Updates
I’m the reaper my enemies never see coming.
Then I go home to an empty flat where the silence has turned deafening.
That changes when my beautiful, unhinged neighbor,
who’s decided I’m her boyfriend,
starts breaking into my home.
And leaving me plants.
It’s harmless. She’s harmless.
Until the night she’s in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Fallon Nova should’ve run when she saw me kill a man.
Instead, she stayed and patched me up.
Now she’s a witness.
And witnesses don’t live long in my world.
When all she wants is a date for the holidays in exchange for her silence,
I tell myself I can fake it.
But pretending ends the second she kisses me
and makes me want things I can’t have.
I want her. All of her in ways that have me in a chokehold.
She might have fallen first, but I fall harder.
And when someone from her past tries to take her away from me,
everyone will see what kind of monster loving Fallon has turned me into...
Wicked Deception is the final book in the Quinlan Empire series and can be read as a STANDALONE.
🪴Irish Mafia Assassin
🪴Neurodivergent FMC
🪴Fake Dating
🪴Stalking
🪴Forced Proximity
🪴Slow Burn
🪴Opposites Attract
🪴Forehead Kisses
🪴F*k It
🪴Touch her and die
🪴Candy Cane Kink
Follow Deborah for Updates
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2026
About the author
Deborah Garland
55 books824 followersDeborah Garland is a top 45 Amazon Bestselling and a 4x Award-Winning author of emotional, funny, and steamy romances!
She loves pugs, Friday night Cosmos, and that feeling when she publishes a new romance novel.
She lives on the beautiful North Shore of Long Island and in the summer, she escapes to Maine with her very patient husband.
She eats cheap mac and cheese with expensive red wine, her heroes are ALWAYS over six feet tall, and they fall hard, HARD for the girl.
Visit her website --> https://www.deborahgarlandauthor.com/... to join her newsletter and browse her little love stories.
New Releases are always featured, but all books can be read as standalones. Don’t be afraid to jump in. The water’s fine 😊
She loves pugs, Friday night Cosmos, and that feeling when she publishes a new romance novel.
She lives on the beautiful North Shore of Long Island and in the summer, she escapes to Maine with her very patient husband.
She eats cheap mac and cheese with expensive red wine, her heroes are ALWAYS over six feet tall, and they fall hard, HARD for the girl.
Visit her website --> https://www.deborahgarlandauthor.com/... to join her newsletter and browse her little love stories.
New Releases are always featured, but all books can be read as standalones. Don’t be afraid to jump in. The water’s fine 😊
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
March 9, 2026
5⭐️
3🌶️
🔥Irish Mafia Assassin
🪴Neurodivergent FMC
🔥Fake Dating
🪴Stalking
🔥Forced Proximity
🪴Slow Burn
🔥Opposites Attract
🪴F* Touch her and ☠️
🔥Dual First Person POV
Welcome to the Quinlan Empire for the fourth and final book in the series. This is Rhys and Fallon’s story. For the past the two years Fallon has been telling everyone Rhys is her boyfriend and breaking into his apartment while he’s away at “work.” She knows what and who he is because she read a letter from his mother and she doesn’t care. These two are unique, the Irish mafia assissan and his quirky plant loving neighbor. Fallon is neurodivergent and finds comfort in her plants and garden. She speaks to her plants, having full conversations. They help her sort her thoughts and emotions. Rhys has always been attracted to his quirky neighbor, but he never wanted to bring her into the darkness of his world. He believes because of what he does, he doesn’t deserve anything good. Fallon kicks things up a notch and starts leaving him plants and then breaking in to his apartment to take care of them. After sneaking in one night, she witnesses Rhys unalive a man and now she’s a witness. Instead of running away, she takes care of his cuts She promises to keep this secret, because he’s her boyfriend. Rhys won’t let Ares or the Empire take care of her like they do with any witness. When he sees her color coded explosion of a calendar on a rolling white board, he has an idea. To make sure she doesn’t tell anyone, Rhys makes her a deal, he’ll be her date for all her holiday events. From freindsgiving, ornament shopping, and an impromptu trip to the shooting range, Rhys falls harder for Fallon. There is a touch of suspense with danger lurking in the background. I loved Fallon’s train of thought, how she perceived her world, and her growth was very special and extremely well done. Her differences are what Rhys is drawn to, he wants to protect her against the poeple who take advantage of her or insult her. This is a sweet slow burn, he doesn’t want to take advantage and move at her pace. When the spice hits, it doesn’t take long to burn up. There is never a dull moment, full of beautiful moments, humor, and action. I am sad to say goodbye to the Quinlans, but I’m excited to see where Deborah takes us next with Ares’ story.
🚩Be sure to read the author’s note and content warnings before reading.
Plot: 5
Engaging: 5
Character: 5
Thank you Deborah Garland for the gifted advanced copy.
📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads🐦🔥
A Few Favorite Quotes:
“I was robbed of my daily therapy of watching my boyfriend for hours in a towel. Someone will pay for that.”
“You keep saying deep like you’re testing me.”
“I am testing you,” I say, nudging a shrub into place. “Depth is everything.”
“Because Fallon Nova is not just my biggest problem. She just might be my only salvation.”
“My fake relationship is deepening. But it’s also a noose around my neck that just tightened.”
“Where did you get those measurements?”
“I took them myself.”
“When?”
“When you were asleep.”
“God, I’m sinking into this delusion. But if I have to live in a semi-authentic world to be with Fallon and make her happy, I’ll do it. Reality is overrated.”
“If Fallon is going to fight for color and beauty in the world, I’ll fight to make sure no one dares to get in her way.”
“Rhys’s body against mine feels a little wicked, but perfect.”
“I love us. Fallon and me. The assassin and the quirky plant girl. I can’t help it, I am falling so hard for this woman. I only hope I survive it.”
“Now that you’re my girlfriend, I’m going to f * € k you like a wh0r£.”
3🌶️
🔥Irish Mafia Assassin
🪴Neurodivergent FMC
🔥Fake Dating
🪴Stalking
🔥Forced Proximity
🪴Slow Burn
🔥Opposites Attract
🪴F* Touch her and ☠️
🔥Dual First Person POV
Welcome to the Quinlan Empire for the fourth and final book in the series. This is Rhys and Fallon’s story. For the past the two years Fallon has been telling everyone Rhys is her boyfriend and breaking into his apartment while he’s away at “work.” She knows what and who he is because she read a letter from his mother and she doesn’t care. These two are unique, the Irish mafia assissan and his quirky plant loving neighbor. Fallon is neurodivergent and finds comfort in her plants and garden. She speaks to her plants, having full conversations. They help her sort her thoughts and emotions. Rhys has always been attracted to his quirky neighbor, but he never wanted to bring her into the darkness of his world. He believes because of what he does, he doesn’t deserve anything good. Fallon kicks things up a notch and starts leaving him plants and then breaking in to his apartment to take care of them. After sneaking in one night, she witnesses Rhys unalive a man and now she’s a witness. Instead of running away, she takes care of his cuts She promises to keep this secret, because he’s her boyfriend. Rhys won’t let Ares or the Empire take care of her like they do with any witness. When he sees her color coded explosion of a calendar on a rolling white board, he has an idea. To make sure she doesn’t tell anyone, Rhys makes her a deal, he’ll be her date for all her holiday events. From freindsgiving, ornament shopping, and an impromptu trip to the shooting range, Rhys falls harder for Fallon. There is a touch of suspense with danger lurking in the background. I loved Fallon’s train of thought, how she perceived her world, and her growth was very special and extremely well done. Her differences are what Rhys is drawn to, he wants to protect her against the poeple who take advantage of her or insult her. This is a sweet slow burn, he doesn’t want to take advantage and move at her pace. When the spice hits, it doesn’t take long to burn up. There is never a dull moment, full of beautiful moments, humor, and action. I am sad to say goodbye to the Quinlans, but I’m excited to see where Deborah takes us next with Ares’ story.
🚩Be sure to read the author’s note and content warnings before reading.
Plot: 5
Engaging: 5
Character: 5
Thank you Deborah Garland for the gifted advanced copy.
📚All thoughts and opinions are my own📚
🐦🔥Follow me on socials @myrisingphoenixera.reads🐦🔥
A Few Favorite Quotes:
“I was robbed of my daily therapy of watching my boyfriend for hours in a towel. Someone will pay for that.”
“You keep saying deep like you’re testing me.”
“I am testing you,” I say, nudging a shrub into place. “Depth is everything.”
“Because Fallon Nova is not just my biggest problem. She just might be my only salvation.”
“My fake relationship is deepening. But it’s also a noose around my neck that just tightened.”
“Where did you get those measurements?”
“I took them myself.”
“When?”
“When you were asleep.”
“God, I’m sinking into this delusion. But if I have to live in a semi-authentic world to be with Fallon and make her happy, I’ll do it. Reality is overrated.”
“If Fallon is going to fight for color and beauty in the world, I’ll fight to make sure no one dares to get in her way.”
“Rhys’s body against mine feels a little wicked, but perfect.”
“I love us. Fallon and me. The assassin and the quirky plant girl. I can’t help it, I am falling so hard for this woman. I only hope I survive it.”
“Now that you’re my girlfriend, I’m going to f * € k you like a wh0r£.”
February 14, 2026
Fallon Nova knows she is not what society would call normal. She has an infinity for plants, she talks to them and they talk back. She also has been breaking into Rhys Quinlan's apartment every chance she gets, he is her boyfriend after all. Even if they never talk with one another.
Rhys knows all about Fallon and that she has quirks. When she witnesses something she should not see he makes a deal with her. He attends all of her holiday events with her as her boyfriend and she keeps his secrets. He doesn't expect to fall for her but once he does he is all in.
I liked this a lot. It dragged a little bit towards the end but overall very fun read.
Rhys knows all about Fallon and that she has quirks. When she witnesses something she should not see he makes a deal with her. He attends all of her holiday events with her as her boyfriend and she keeps his secrets. He doesn't expect to fall for her but once he does he is all in.
I liked this a lot. It dragged a little bit towards the end but overall very fun read.
February 5, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
1 🌶️
🌟 ARC Read 🌟
We finally get Rhys and Fallon, who have been teased throughout the previous books. Rhys is a cousin in the Quinlan family and their assassin, while Fallon is his “crazy” neighbor who casually breaks into his apartment to care for his plants. Rhys knows exactly what she’s doing and just laughs it off, but he keeps his distance because he believes she’s too good for him and he doesn’t want to bring his darkness into her life.
Fallon is neurodivergent and finds comfort in plants and gardening. It’s how she soothes herself. Right from the start, she announces that Rhys is her boyfriend, which had me laughing.
My heart truly broke for Fallon. She was diagnosed with ADHD (which was misdiagnosed), and her father had her on heavy medications that made her feel foggy and disconnected. On top of that, the way he treats her and the things she’s endured were devastating. I was a little thrown off at first by her talking to her plants and them “talking back,” but she explains that she knows they aren’t real conversations. It’s simply her coping mechanism. What hurt the most was how people mocked her and said cruel things, yet Fallon still refused to let it break her spirit.
After witnessing something she shouldn’t have, Fallon agrees to stay quiet if Rhys spends the holidays with her and does a few things she’s been wanting. Their inner dialogue had me cracking up, and I loved being inside both of their heads. Fallon mentions her father throughout the story, but I was honestly shocked when his identity was finally revealed.
This was definitely the least spicy book I’ve read in the series, but it was still a great read. Fallon’s depth really spoke to me, and watching Rhys slowly let his walls down for her was everything.
And I cannot wait for the Zervas brothers. I already know they’re going to be absolutely unhinged.
Spicy chapters 🔥
37
42
43
1 🌶️
🌟 ARC Read 🌟
We finally get Rhys and Fallon, who have been teased throughout the previous books. Rhys is a cousin in the Quinlan family and their assassin, while Fallon is his “crazy” neighbor who casually breaks into his apartment to care for his plants. Rhys knows exactly what she’s doing and just laughs it off, but he keeps his distance because he believes she’s too good for him and he doesn’t want to bring his darkness into her life.
Fallon is neurodivergent and finds comfort in plants and gardening. It’s how she soothes herself. Right from the start, she announces that Rhys is her boyfriend, which had me laughing.
My heart truly broke for Fallon. She was diagnosed with ADHD (which was misdiagnosed), and her father had her on heavy medications that made her feel foggy and disconnected. On top of that, the way he treats her and the things she’s endured were devastating. I was a little thrown off at first by her talking to her plants and them “talking back,” but she explains that she knows they aren’t real conversations. It’s simply her coping mechanism. What hurt the most was how people mocked her and said cruel things, yet Fallon still refused to let it break her spirit.
After witnessing something she shouldn’t have, Fallon agrees to stay quiet if Rhys spends the holidays with her and does a few things she’s been wanting. Their inner dialogue had me cracking up, and I loved being inside both of their heads. Fallon mentions her father throughout the story, but I was honestly shocked when his identity was finally revealed.
This was definitely the least spicy book I’ve read in the series, but it was still a great read. Fallon’s depth really spoke to me, and watching Rhys slowly let his walls down for her was everything.
And I cannot wait for the Zervas brothers. I already know they’re going to be absolutely unhinged.
Spicy chapters 🔥
37
42
43
February 7, 2026
This is one of those romances that sneaks up on you with humor and chaos (emotional support plants!! 🌿) and then tightens its grip with high-stakes danger and aching vulnerability. The Irish assassin MMC is lethal, lonely, and emotionally closed off in the way only a man drowning in silence can be. Watching him unravel for Fallon Nova? Absolutely delicious.
Fallon is a standout FMC, neurodivergent, quirky, brave in her own quiet way, and refreshingly unapologetic about who she is. Her boundary-blurring confidence, her determination to see the man beneath the monster, and her unconventional love language made her impossible not to root for. She doesn’t need fixing, she changes the world around her just by existing in it.
The dynamic between them is perfection: forced proximity, fake dating with real feelings, “she fell first but he fell harder,” and that razor-sharp line between protector and destroyer. The tension crackles every time they’re on the page together, and the emotional payoff hits hard when pretending turns into something neither of them can walk away from.
What really elevates this story is how love is portrayed, not as something soft and easy, but as something dangerous enough to transform a monster into a man willing to burn the world for one person. When Fallon is threatened, the mask comes off, and the consequences are chilling in the best way.
If you love morally gray assassins, unconventional heroines, dark romance with heart, and stories where love is both the weakness and the weapon, Wicked Deception is a must-read. I devoured it and immediately wanted more.
Fallon is a standout FMC, neurodivergent, quirky, brave in her own quiet way, and refreshingly unapologetic about who she is. Her boundary-blurring confidence, her determination to see the man beneath the monster, and her unconventional love language made her impossible not to root for. She doesn’t need fixing, she changes the world around her just by existing in it.
The dynamic between them is perfection: forced proximity, fake dating with real feelings, “she fell first but he fell harder,” and that razor-sharp line between protector and destroyer. The tension crackles every time they’re on the page together, and the emotional payoff hits hard when pretending turns into something neither of them can walk away from.
What really elevates this story is how love is portrayed, not as something soft and easy, but as something dangerous enough to transform a monster into a man willing to burn the world for one person. When Fallon is threatened, the mask comes off, and the consequences are chilling in the best way.
If you love morally gray assassins, unconventional heroines, dark romance with heart, and stories where love is both the weakness and the weapon, Wicked Deception is a must-read. I devoured it and immediately wanted more.
April 9, 2026
First book I've read from this author. Ok as a standalone. Super super fun! It was a 5 star book because I absolutely loved both MCs, the meddling mafias which were also family, and I have huge soft spot for quirky characters which she was. It is a light, quick read. It was pretty spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ but in the best ways. There were also some darker moments, but it was brief and resolved with a perfect HEA at the end.
Read
February 11, 2026Thoughts:
1. Why do we need to know how attractive other women are from H's POV, with one of them being deemed "utter perfection?" It has no bearing on the story and they aren't the heroine. By the way, every single freaking time the "utter perfection" woman appeared? We had to be told -- and always from his POV -- how beautiful she was.
2. Fallon loves plants. They talk to her and her to them, but we're supposed to believe when she moved out of her father's house two years ago she left one of her beloved plants there? And, even though it's implied she only returns on Christmas, that it's still alive? That someone else is actually caring for it? That basically contradicts everything we're told about her and learn from getting to know her in this story.
1. Why do we need to know how attractive other women are from H's POV, with one of them being deemed "utter perfection?" It has no bearing on the story and they aren't the heroine. By the way, every single freaking time the "utter perfection" woman appeared? We had to be told -- and always from his POV -- how beautiful she was.
2. Fallon loves plants. They talk to her and her to them, but we're supposed to believe when she moved out of her father's house two years ago she left one of her beloved plants there? And, even though it's implied she only returns on Christmas, that it's still alive? That someone else is actually caring for it? That basically contradicts everything we're told about her and learn from getting to know her in this story.
February 12, 2026
DNF at 56% I wasn’t expecting this level of mental illness and it made me uncomfortable and question how much she could consent. I loved the idea of her being neurodivergent but she didn’t just have ADHD, she has full blown delusions and is barely able to function in society. I guess it’s ok because she’s hot and “quirky” aka manic pixie girl. Also it really makes it seem like medications were the enemy and would make her less vibrant but medication is an important tool in helping some issues. He was very protective of her but also it had an icky vibe of him leaning into her delusions so they could be together. I’m sure there’s a twist later on about her dad and maybe I would feel better about her mental status if I read more but it’s too weird. She acts like a child when it comes to their sexual experiences and the only time she “had sex” was rape. No thank you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is one of those books you wish you could read again for the first time!
Wicked Deception by @deborahgarlandauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️ /🌶🌶.5
"I can’t keep falling apart.
I’m an assassin’s girlfriend.
I’m supposed to be unshakable."
Fallon is a quirky, neurodivergent plant lover, who believes her assassin neighbor is her boyfriend. Rhys has always been attracted to his neighbor, but he has never asked her to be his girlfriend. Treading lightly, he tries to figure out why, all the while acting the part to keep her protected from those who want to take advantage of her differences.
Fallon is a brilliant character. Deborah Garland did a fantastic job portraying the ups and downs in dealing with mental health. She definitely did her research and it shows in the writing!
Typically, I get invested in mafia romance for watching those big tough guys fall hard for the ones they love. While I absolutely melted for Rhys and his tender care and caution in pursuing Fallon. I found myself living for Fallons chapters. I love her so much! You never know what craziness is coming next! From crying and screaming because she has to carve a pumpkin (plants are her friends, you know...) to convincing herself to be strong in the face of a murder scene.
A little off the typical high spice course of Deborah's stories. This one is a slow burn romance with spice in later chapters. YOU WON'T FEEL LIKE YOU'RE MISSING A THING! This is an incredibly addicting plot with lots of emotion and laughs along the way. I can't wait for the world to get their hands on Fallon and Rhys's story 😍
What to look forward to:
🌿 Misdiagnosed Neurodivergent FMC
🌿 Mafia Assassin MMC
🌿 Breaking & Entering to leave him plants
🌿 Fake GF?
🌿 Shovels are weapons too
🌿 She talks to plants and they talk back
🌿 Weaponized organization
🌿 Obsessive Protector
🌿 Slow-burn and medium spice
Wicked Deception by @deborahgarlandauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️ /🌶🌶.5
"I can’t keep falling apart.
I’m an assassin’s girlfriend.
I’m supposed to be unshakable."
Fallon is a quirky, neurodivergent plant lover, who believes her assassin neighbor is her boyfriend. Rhys has always been attracted to his neighbor, but he has never asked her to be his girlfriend. Treading lightly, he tries to figure out why, all the while acting the part to keep her protected from those who want to take advantage of her differences.
Fallon is a brilliant character. Deborah Garland did a fantastic job portraying the ups and downs in dealing with mental health. She definitely did her research and it shows in the writing!
Typically, I get invested in mafia romance for watching those big tough guys fall hard for the ones they love. While I absolutely melted for Rhys and his tender care and caution in pursuing Fallon. I found myself living for Fallons chapters. I love her so much! You never know what craziness is coming next! From crying and screaming because she has to carve a pumpkin (plants are her friends, you know...) to convincing herself to be strong in the face of a murder scene.
A little off the typical high spice course of Deborah's stories. This one is a slow burn romance with spice in later chapters. YOU WON'T FEEL LIKE YOU'RE MISSING A THING! This is an incredibly addicting plot with lots of emotion and laughs along the way. I can't wait for the world to get their hands on Fallon and Rhys's story 😍
What to look forward to:
🌿 Misdiagnosed Neurodivergent FMC
🌿 Mafia Assassin MMC
🌿 Breaking & Entering to leave him plants
🌿 Fake GF?
🌿 Shovels are weapons too
🌿 She talks to plants and they talk back
🌿 Weaponized organization
🌿 Obsessive Protector
🌿 Slow-burn and medium spice
February 5, 2026
It's that time again and I'm back with the fourth and final book in this brilliant series - The Quinlan Empire.
I read Brutal Collateral, Savage Promises and Lovely Venom over last year and what a great way to start my new year reading!
I'm definitely a little obsessed with these Mafia dark romance reads and for this final book, we follow our dark assassin, Rhys.
Although this is obviously linked to the first three books, this could easily be read as a standalone read - but I honestly think you'll get much more from this if you read them all in order.
This story just had me in all the feels and as much as we're really not supposed to love a real life assassin - just how could you resist!?
Well, Fallon, Rhys' next door neighbour certainly couldn't resist and I absolutely loved the way she's sneak into his apartment to leave him an emotional support plant - knowing that he's always alone.
Fallon was the perfect representation of a NeuroDiverse character and I adored the way she viewed the world.
What made this all the more perfect, was the way that Rhys accepted and loved her despite and because of her differences.
I loved the way this relationship develops.
Yes, the falling hard happens pretty swiftly, but this is much more slow burn than our previous books and we have to wait for things to get spicy - but don't worry, it's worth the wait!
This was one emotional rollercoaster - I need a plant! - and had me tearing up and laughing almost in the same scenes.
An absolutely perfect ending to this series - but I'm sad to see it go!
Let's hope it's not long before my next adventure with this author!
I read Brutal Collateral, Savage Promises and Lovely Venom over last year and what a great way to start my new year reading!
I'm definitely a little obsessed with these Mafia dark romance reads and for this final book, we follow our dark assassin, Rhys.
Although this is obviously linked to the first three books, this could easily be read as a standalone read - but I honestly think you'll get much more from this if you read them all in order.
This story just had me in all the feels and as much as we're really not supposed to love a real life assassin - just how could you resist!?
Well, Fallon, Rhys' next door neighbour certainly couldn't resist and I absolutely loved the way she's sneak into his apartment to leave him an emotional support plant - knowing that he's always alone.
Fallon was the perfect representation of a NeuroDiverse character and I adored the way she viewed the world.
What made this all the more perfect, was the way that Rhys accepted and loved her despite and because of her differences.
I loved the way this relationship develops.
Yes, the falling hard happens pretty swiftly, but this is much more slow burn than our previous books and we have to wait for things to get spicy - but don't worry, it's worth the wait!
This was one emotional rollercoaster - I need a plant! - and had me tearing up and laughing almost in the same scenes.
An absolutely perfect ending to this series - but I'm sad to see it go!
Let's hope it's not long before my next adventure with this author!
March 28, 2026
Oh wow. It really is not mafia romance season.
April 17, 2026
I’m going to be completely honest, i enjoyed parts of this book but there are many things wrong with the story.
First of all, as a neurodivergent person myself, medication is not the enemy as the author portrays hard here. I was excited when I saw the FMC was neurodivergent I’m always looking for more representation. But it became clear fast that medication was portrayed as bad and playing into the symptoms is good. That seems icky to me. Medication is the only reason I’m able to function normally and to see it villainized in such an extreme way is upsetting.
Second, there is a weird and unexpected elf kink. Spoiler: The first time they are intimate he starts calling her his elf and she calls him Santa out of nowhere. It’s weird and completely unnecessary to the plot.
Third, the writing isn’t great. It seems a bit rushed, like some points were drawn out but the big action at the end was rushed.
Finally, the thing that irritates me so much is when authors use the epilogue as a spotlight for the next interconnected book. I don’t care about these two side characters. If I cared about them, I’d be reading their story. I want the epilogue to be for the characters of the book i just spent hours reading. Instead, we get a scene that makes no sense unless you read the next book, which I don’t because the author just spent 358 pages making Ares out to be a horrible person so why exactly would I want to read his book?
First of all, as a neurodivergent person myself, medication is not the enemy as the author portrays hard here. I was excited when I saw the FMC was neurodivergent I’m always looking for more representation. But it became clear fast that medication was portrayed as bad and playing into the symptoms is good. That seems icky to me. Medication is the only reason I’m able to function normally and to see it villainized in such an extreme way is upsetting.
Second, there is a weird and unexpected elf kink. Spoiler: The first time they are intimate he starts calling her his elf and she calls him Santa out of nowhere. It’s weird and completely unnecessary to the plot.
Third, the writing isn’t great. It seems a bit rushed, like some points were drawn out but the big action at the end was rushed.
Finally, the thing that irritates me so much is when authors use the epilogue as a spotlight for the next interconnected book. I don’t care about these two side characters. If I cared about them, I’d be reading their story. I want the epilogue to be for the characters of the book i just spent hours reading. Instead, we get a scene that makes no sense unless you read the next book, which I don’t because the author just spent 358 pages making Ares out to be a horrible person so why exactly would I want to read his book?
February 3, 2026
I received this book as an arc and I was so excited. The tropes were right up my alley and couldn’t wait to read it.
Unfortunately that’s where my excitement ended. I tried so hard to get into this book, but I couldn’t get past the fact that the FMC talks to her plants and thinks they talk back to her.
Unfortunately that’s where my excitement ended. I tried so hard to get into this book, but I couldn’t get past the fact that the FMC talks to her plants and thinks they talk back to her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Deborah Garland does it again. I have loved every book she has written, and Wicked Deception is no exception.
Rhys and Fallon are so very special. Deborah did a fabulous job of writing Fallon's character and her arc so well that you can't help but just fall hook, line, and sinker for her right along with Rhys. The way Rhys is written is also excellent. The way the two characters evolve and grow is fascinating to watch.
I absolutely cannot wait for the audiobook.
Thank you to Deborah for the ARC and the opportunity to review it.
Rhys and Fallon are so very special. Deborah did a fabulous job of writing Fallon's character and her arc so well that you can't help but just fall hook, line, and sinker for her right along with Rhys. The way Rhys is written is also excellent. The way the two characters evolve and grow is fascinating to watch.
I absolutely cannot wait for the audiobook.
Thank you to Deborah for the ARC and the opportunity to review it.
January 22, 2026
I liked the book, but the only downside was that she kept talking to the plants and they would talk back to her. Overall, it was a good book and I recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2026
Dnf @33%. There was something seriously wrong with the fmc. I can see her talking to her plants (cause we all talk to ourselves sometimes) but she’s having full blown conversations with them AND THEY TALK BACK!! Not only is the fmc talking to them but so is the mmc, granted they don’t talk back to him but he FEELS like they are listening to him. Like come on now. I would deal if this was a paranormal romance book but it’s not. Actually, I’m lying, even then I would’ve dnf’d.
February 2, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Oh my god, I’m so in love with both of them. I ate this up so fast, flying thought the chapters before I could blink. I was sucked right in from chapter 1.
Fallon ‘thinking’ she’s in a relationship with Rhys for the past 2 years. Rhys played along with it believing she’s harmless. Only that little ‘harmless’ girl has been breaking into his flat, not through the door. Nope that would be too easy for her, she’s being climbing in through his window, his locked window. Waking to dangerous ledge from her window to his, shimmering the window open and climbing in. Before going back the way she came.
Fallon talks with her plants, and they talk back. At first you think she has some deep psychological problems and hears voices. Although it becomes known that it is a coping mechanism from trauma. But who doesn’t talk to objects?
Rhys is the best assassin, working for the family mafia. Trained to do what he does from working in high security and the Irish military.
The big bad tattooed long haired killing machine, thinks he doesn’t have a heart but he shows it so many times. He knows she is breaking in, so he keeps the window unlocked. She gives him plants, he keeps them, waters them (although forgetting sometimes) and even talks to them.
Fallon witnesses something that would get her killed for seeing it. But Rhys won’t allow that. So to keep her quiet, all she asks for is him. Spend the holiday with him, doing all the activities she has planned, from Friendsgiving to Christmas markets, decorating the building tree and more.
That’s where he becomes just as obsessed as she is. He takes ‘touch her and die’ to a wholeeeeeeee new level to ‘look at her and die’. He talks with his fists before they even get to open their mouths, all for his girl.
Oh my god, I’m so in love with both of them. I ate this up so fast, flying thought the chapters before I could blink. I was sucked right in from chapter 1.
Fallon ‘thinking’ she’s in a relationship with Rhys for the past 2 years. Rhys played along with it believing she’s harmless. Only that little ‘harmless’ girl has been breaking into his flat, not through the door. Nope that would be too easy for her, she’s being climbing in through his window, his locked window. Waking to dangerous ledge from her window to his, shimmering the window open and climbing in. Before going back the way she came.
Fallon talks with her plants, and they talk back. At first you think she has some deep psychological problems and hears voices. Although it becomes known that it is a coping mechanism from trauma. But who doesn’t talk to objects?
Rhys is the best assassin, working for the family mafia. Trained to do what he does from working in high security and the Irish military.
The big bad tattooed long haired killing machine, thinks he doesn’t have a heart but he shows it so many times. He knows she is breaking in, so he keeps the window unlocked. She gives him plants, he keeps them, waters them (although forgetting sometimes) and even talks to them.
Fallon witnesses something that would get her killed for seeing it. But Rhys won’t allow that. So to keep her quiet, all she asks for is him. Spend the holiday with him, doing all the activities she has planned, from Friendsgiving to Christmas markets, decorating the building tree and more.
That’s where he becomes just as obsessed as she is. He takes ‘touch her and die’ to a wholeeeeeeee new level to ‘look at her and die’. He talks with his fists before they even get to open their mouths, all for his girl.
Review of advance copy
Wicked Deception completely exceeded my expectations and ended up being a five-star read for me. This was my first Irish mafia romance and also my first time reading a book with a neurodivergent FMC, and I was genuinely impressed with how thoughtfully and realistically her character was written. Her struggles felt authentic, and I appreciated that they were handled with care rather than being glossed over.
The dynamic between the FMC and MMC was one of the strongest parts of the story. The MMC is a hardcore assassin, but what really stood out was his patience and understanding toward her, especially during her spirals. I loved that the book showed both sides of him so clearly — the ruthless, dangerous side and the loving, doting boyfriend who prioritizes her well-being. That contrast made his character feel layered and believable.
Beyond the romance and spice, the plot itself was executed beautifully. There were plenty of action-packed and unexpected scenes that kept the story moving and prevented it from feeling repetitive. The balance between romance, suspense, and action was done really well, and I never felt bored or like the story relied solely on spice to carry it.
The bonus epilogue was the perfect finishing touch and tied everything together in a satisfying way. Overall, Wicked Deception delivered on every level for me — strong characters, meaningful representation, engaging plot, and a rewarding ending. I’ll definitely be picking up more from this author.
The dynamic between the FMC and MMC was one of the strongest parts of the story. The MMC is a hardcore assassin, but what really stood out was his patience and understanding toward her, especially during her spirals. I loved that the book showed both sides of him so clearly — the ruthless, dangerous side and the loving, doting boyfriend who prioritizes her well-being. That contrast made his character feel layered and believable.
Beyond the romance and spice, the plot itself was executed beautifully. There were plenty of action-packed and unexpected scenes that kept the story moving and prevented it from feeling repetitive. The balance between romance, suspense, and action was done really well, and I never felt bored or like the story relied solely on spice to carry it.
The bonus epilogue was the perfect finishing touch and tied everything together in a satisfying way. Overall, Wicked Deception delivered on every level for me — strong characters, meaningful representation, engaging plot, and a rewarding ending. I’ll definitely be picking up more from this author.
Did Not Finish
March 23, 2026Wicked Deception by Deborah Garland (Quinlan Empire, #4)
⭐️
🌶️ - Nil
DNF @ 26%
When readers are first introduced to the leads of ‘Wicked Deception’, you undoubtedly understand them as warped and peculiar individuals. Rhys Quinlan lives a life where he thirsts for blood, then comes home thirsting for the immaturity and youthfulness in his neighbour. Whilst Fallon Nova is posited as a young woman who is neurodivergent. However, however, the author allows this trait to show characteristics that mimic one of a child and tendencies that adhere to a stalker. The personalities within both characters made this instalment very difficult and uncomfortable to read.
Fallon’s comfortability and peace are retrieved by talking to her plants and spying on her neighbour, and whilst this does not necessarily establish a weird plot, her immature and unaware tone does not plan for a love story between two consenting adults. Rhys’ perspective was incredibly confusing at times, due to the significance of context within his ‘killings’. Deborah Garland does state that this can be read as a stand-alone; however, at no point does she attempt to resolve gaps in context for the unknowing reader.
Ultimately, this novel truly just made me uncomfortable. I was unable to finish a book where the immaturity and innocence of an adult woman was the basis for attraction.
⭐️
🌶️ - Nil
DNF @ 26%
When readers are first introduced to the leads of ‘Wicked Deception’, you undoubtedly understand them as warped and peculiar individuals. Rhys Quinlan lives a life where he thirsts for blood, then comes home thirsting for the immaturity and youthfulness in his neighbour. Whilst Fallon Nova is posited as a young woman who is neurodivergent. However, however, the author allows this trait to show characteristics that mimic one of a child and tendencies that adhere to a stalker. The personalities within both characters made this instalment very difficult and uncomfortable to read.
Fallon’s comfortability and peace are retrieved by talking to her plants and spying on her neighbour, and whilst this does not necessarily establish a weird plot, her immature and unaware tone does not plan for a love story between two consenting adults. Rhys’ perspective was incredibly confusing at times, due to the significance of context within his ‘killings’. Deborah Garland does state that this can be read as a stand-alone; however, at no point does she attempt to resolve gaps in context for the unknowing reader.
Ultimately, this novel truly just made me uncomfortable. I was unable to finish a book where the immaturity and innocence of an adult woman was the basis for attraction.
February 6, 2026
This is the fourth book in this impressive series, and this is Fallon and Rhy’s story.
Rhys is an Irish assassin, while Fallon suffers from Neurodivergent, and is his neighbor, who believes that he is her boyfriend, and she keeps breaking into his flat and leaving him plants which she cares for. When Fallon is in the wrong place at the wrong time, and witnesses something she should not have, but she does not run, but stays and patches Rhys up. When Fallon’s past comes back to haunt her, Rhys will do whatever he must to keep her safe and protected.
This is a well written slow burn, action packed story, with danger, suspense, intrigue, fake dating, stalking, forced proximity, opposites attract, touch her, and die vibes, humour, witty banter, 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.
Rhys is an Irish assassin, while Fallon suffers from Neurodivergent, and is his neighbor, who believes that he is her boyfriend, and she keeps breaking into his flat and leaving him plants which she cares for. When Fallon is in the wrong place at the wrong time, and witnesses something she should not have, but she does not run, but stays and patches Rhys up. When Fallon’s past comes back to haunt her, Rhys will do whatever he must to keep her safe and protected.
This is a well written slow burn, action packed story, with danger, suspense, intrigue, fake dating, stalking, forced proximity, opposites attract, touch her, and die vibes, humour, witty banter, 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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book four in the Quinlan Empire, and I have been waiting for Rhys and Fallon’s story ever since catching glimpses of them in the earlier books. I loved stepping back into this Irish mafia world and all the drama, danger, and family chaos that comes with it.
Fallon has spent years believing her neighbor Rhys is her boyfriend, and honestly, I loved that this is where their story starts. She lives in her own carefully structured world, surrounded by routines and the plants she talks to and cares for, and Rhys has always quietly watched over her from next door. He knows she is different, and instead of questioning it or trying to change her, he steps into her reality to keep her safe. As a member of the Quinlan Empire, Rhys lives a dangerous life, and when that danger brushes too close to Fallon, protecting her becomes his top priority. Their lives slowly intertwine as he takes on the role she already believes he holds, and what starts as something unspoken turns into something very real.
I absolutely loved these two together. Fallon’s mental health is fragile, and it was handled with so much care and respect. Rhys is not a soft man, but the way he treated Fallon was tender, patient, and incredibly protective. He never tried to limit her world, only made sure she could move through it safely. Watching him learn how to read her moods, ground her when she spiraled, and support her choices made my heart melt. Their connection was slow burn, emotional, and deeply intimate. The chemistry builds quietly at first, but when it finally ignites, it is powerful and intense without ever losing the emotional depth behind it.
If you love mafia romance with heart, a slow burn that sneaks up on you, and a couple who find balance in each other despite the darkness around them, this one is a must read. Fallon and Rhys are unforgettable, and this was the perfect ending to the Quinlan Empire series.
Fallon has spent years believing her neighbor Rhys is her boyfriend, and honestly, I loved that this is where their story starts. She lives in her own carefully structured world, surrounded by routines and the plants she talks to and cares for, and Rhys has always quietly watched over her from next door. He knows she is different, and instead of questioning it or trying to change her, he steps into her reality to keep her safe. As a member of the Quinlan Empire, Rhys lives a dangerous life, and when that danger brushes too close to Fallon, protecting her becomes his top priority. Their lives slowly intertwine as he takes on the role she already believes he holds, and what starts as something unspoken turns into something very real.
I absolutely loved these two together. Fallon’s mental health is fragile, and it was handled with so much care and respect. Rhys is not a soft man, but the way he treated Fallon was tender, patient, and incredibly protective. He never tried to limit her world, only made sure she could move through it safely. Watching him learn how to read her moods, ground her when she spiraled, and support her choices made my heart melt. Their connection was slow burn, emotional, and deeply intimate. The chemistry builds quietly at first, but when it finally ignites, it is powerful and intense without ever losing the emotional depth behind it.
If you love mafia romance with heart, a slow burn that sneaks up on you, and a couple who find balance in each other despite the darkness around them, this one is a must read. Fallon and Rhys are unforgettable, and this was the perfect ending to the Quinlan Empire series.
February 8, 2026
You might want to hang on don’t blink and you might want to make sure you are buckled up because this is going to be one crazy ride usual mafia antics betrayal, jealousy, lies, secrets, murder, and throw in a little maybe even a lot of violence while we are at it but also a little love so buckle up 😊! Fallon is sweet but has been seen as weird by others all her life but she is quirky in the best way she is a neurodivergent emotional plant lover who has convinced herself that her assassin neighbor is boyfriend, accepting him for who he is outside his job, Fallon is brave in her own way, doesn’t apologize for being who she is, and she doesn’t want or need anyone fixing her if you want to be around her then you must accept her just the way she is. Rhys sexy as all get out Irish assassin isn’t a man you want to tangle with he is ruthless, dangerous on a good day, deadly every day, his job doesn’t allow him to get close to others but that doesn’t stop him from noticing his neighbor and he couldn’t help but notices his loneliness when she is around. The magnetic pull is there between them is there, but when she breaks into his apartment to leave him an emotional support plant because she notices he is lonely and the more they get to know each other the closer they get. But when danger tries to reach out and touch her he is right there to take it out in the best way and we watch this very dangerous man because something soft, tender for her but is it enough, will the danger he deals with keep coming for her, will he keep her protected, and can these two very different people find a happiness that is just theirs?
January 21, 2026
Thanks to The Author Agency and Deborah Garland for the free ARC. All opinions are my own in the following ARC Review.
Genres: Dark Mafia Romance
Tropes: Fake Dating, Neighbors to Lovers, Age Gap, Assassin, Protective MMC, Morally Grey Hero, Neurodivergent FMC, Stalking, Grumpy/Sunshine, Opposites Attract, Touch Her and Die, Slow Burn
MC: Fallon (FMC), Rhys (MMC)
Setting: Dublin, Ireland; Manhattan
Triggers: referenced SA of FMC
Epilogue: Yes
Synopsis: Fallon has spent years believing her neighbor Rhys is her boyfriend, a fact she proudly shares with everyone. She regularly sneaks into his apartment to leave behind her beloved plants, which she regularly has conversations with. Rhys knows Fallon is different, but he finds her quirks endearing. Rhys is a mob hitman, and when a job goes wrong and danger follows him home, Fallon becomes an unintended witness. Though his family insists he eliminate her, Rhys refuses and instead keeps her close to protect her, and because he also enjoys her company. Fallon eventually brings Rhys home for Christmas, where he discovers her father leads a feared rogue hitmen group tied to one of his recent kills. Her father plans to marry Fallon off, forcing Rhys to leave her, and bring back his family as reinforcements. They rescue Fallon, dismantle the organization, and build a life together once the chaos settles.
Thoughts: I enjoyed this book so much! Rhys and Fallon were an absolute joy to read, and have quickly become a beloved couple for me. I loved how accepting they were of each other from day one. They never questioned their connection, or the way they made each other feel. Fallon may be considered “different,” but her unique perspective of the world opened Rhys’s eyes to a new path in life he didn’t even realize he needed. Fallon and Rhys balance each other perfectly, never letting outside opinions affect who they are, or the strength of their relationship. All of their date scenes were incredibly sweet, and I especially admired how thoughtful and respectful Rhys was during their intimate moments, particularly given Fallon’s past. The epilogue was adorable too, and I would love to see Rhys interacting with a daughter who’s Fallon’s mini-me. We’re also left with a very intriguing situation involving Ares, and I’m already looking forward to seeing how his story unfolds next.
Genres: Dark Mafia Romance
Tropes: Fake Dating, Neighbors to Lovers, Age Gap, Assassin, Protective MMC, Morally Grey Hero, Neurodivergent FMC, Stalking, Grumpy/Sunshine, Opposites Attract, Touch Her and Die, Slow Burn
MC: Fallon (FMC), Rhys (MMC)
Setting: Dublin, Ireland; Manhattan
Triggers: referenced SA of FMC
Epilogue: Yes
Synopsis: Fallon has spent years believing her neighbor Rhys is her boyfriend, a fact she proudly shares with everyone. She regularly sneaks into his apartment to leave behind her beloved plants, which she regularly has conversations with. Rhys knows Fallon is different, but he finds her quirks endearing. Rhys is a mob hitman, and when a job goes wrong and danger follows him home, Fallon becomes an unintended witness. Though his family insists he eliminate her, Rhys refuses and instead keeps her close to protect her, and because he also enjoys her company. Fallon eventually brings Rhys home for Christmas, where he discovers her father leads a feared rogue hitmen group tied to one of his recent kills. Her father plans to marry Fallon off, forcing Rhys to leave her, and bring back his family as reinforcements. They rescue Fallon, dismantle the organization, and build a life together once the chaos settles.
Thoughts: I enjoyed this book so much! Rhys and Fallon were an absolute joy to read, and have quickly become a beloved couple for me. I loved how accepting they were of each other from day one. They never questioned their connection, or the way they made each other feel. Fallon may be considered “different,” but her unique perspective of the world opened Rhys’s eyes to a new path in life he didn’t even realize he needed. Fallon and Rhys balance each other perfectly, never letting outside opinions affect who they are, or the strength of their relationship. All of their date scenes were incredibly sweet, and I especially admired how thoughtful and respectful Rhys was during their intimate moments, particularly given Fallon’s past. The epilogue was adorable too, and I would love to see Rhys interacting with a daughter who’s Fallon’s mini-me. We’re also left with a very intriguing situation involving Ares, and I’m already looking forward to seeing how his story unfolds next.
March 20, 2026
It started off strong for me - it’s seemingly a neurodivergent heroine, a tough assassin who lets her think he’s her boyfriend, she leaves him plants and he is amused by her.
But I think the mental health aspect made me uneasy. Maybe she’s neurodivergent, but she definitely has much more serious mental health problems too. The book is very against her taking meds because they put her out of it, but I think she should be doing something. She hears plants talking to her, has no friends, and wouldn’t be able to function in society if her dad didn’t pay for her apartment. I think it’s written off a little easily as a quirk or Rhys loving her anyway, but it gave me a weird feeling for the whole book.
But I think the mental health aspect made me uneasy. Maybe she’s neurodivergent, but she definitely has much more serious mental health problems too. The book is very against her taking meds because they put her out of it, but I think she should be doing something. She hears plants talking to her, has no friends, and wouldn’t be able to function in society if her dad didn’t pay for her apartment. I think it’s written off a little easily as a quirk or Rhys loving her anyway, but it gave me a weird feeling for the whole book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2026
This one was a hard one to get through with the conversations with plants and how Fallon thinks and acts and feeling the pain of the hate she gets on a daily basis. Had me spiraling a few times from my childhood, even now as I try to write my review. Her father is mentally abusive, her promised husband, her fathers tie to the Russians, raped her years prior when she was roughly 18, her mother dies when she was young so she only vaguely remembers her, she grow up her fathers shameful secret and was forced on meds. She has freedom and lives on her own across from Rhys, her secret boyfriend even he doesn’t know about. She becomes his stalker… but when a job goes wrong and the price to keep her silence, a month long festive month as hers, can Rhys handle his perky plant loving neighbor and keep his heart stone cold???
Rhys Quinlan, 30s, brother to Trace, cousin to Griffin and his brothers. Assassin for his cousin but will hall their allies even the dreaded Greeks, Ares and this story works around and leads up for Ares’ book with the widow of a man he hired Rhys to take out
Fallon Nova Black, 25, hidden shame to her father Ellis and future bride of the Russia boss’s 4th secret son. Talks to plants and they do reply to where she has conversations with plants and cry’s when carving a pumpkin. She don’t take her meds that her father wants them forced down to make her a shell of who she is.
Rhys Quinlan, 30s, brother to Trace, cousin to Griffin and his brothers. Assassin for his cousin but will hall their allies even the dreaded Greeks, Ares and this story works around and leads up for Ares’ book with the widow of a man he hired Rhys to take out
Fallon Nova Black, 25, hidden shame to her father Ellis and future bride of the Russia boss’s 4th secret son. Talks to plants and they do reply to where she has conversations with plants and cry’s when carving a pumpkin. She don’t take her meds that her father wants them forced down to make her a shell of who she is.
February 7, 2026
an end but it’s not over!
Huge thank you to Deborah for a copy of this ebook. I’ve been along for the ride since the beginning of the Quinlan Empire and it’s a nice end to the series!
I absolutely love the relationship between Rhys and Fallon with all of the metal heath representation. Fallon is neurodivergent and forced on meds by her dad and practically treated like less than because of it. Rhys is a lone wolf (as much as he can be with his large family system) and encounters a neurodivergent boy on a mission. That experience helps him handle the situations he finds himself and Fallon in and I loved every bit of. His care for her and her wellness is unmatched.
Huge thank you to Deborah for a copy of this ebook. I’ve been along for the ride since the beginning of the Quinlan Empire and it’s a nice end to the series!
I absolutely love the relationship between Rhys and Fallon with all of the metal heath representation. Fallon is neurodivergent and forced on meds by her dad and practically treated like less than because of it. Rhys is a lone wolf (as much as he can be with his large family system) and encounters a neurodivergent boy on a mission. That experience helps him handle the situations he finds himself and Fallon in and I loved every bit of. His care for her and her wellness is unmatched.
February 21, 2026
Deborah Garland writes fantastic mafia stories and this was a unique kind of mafia storyline. Rhys is an Irish mafia assassin and ends up falling for the neurodivergent lady next door who witnesses one of his crimes. This story is fast paced drama and action with a slow burn romance. I loved Fallon and Rhys' chemistry. She fell first but he falls harder- I love that trope! This is definitely a story you should read.
February 10, 2026
So good 🪴🪴🪴❤️
February 17, 2026
“If Fallon is going to fight for color and beauty in the world, I’ll fight to make sure nobody gets in her way.”
I love the premise behind this, but I couldn’t help but get the ick because Fallon did not come off as just neurodivergent or a little quirky, she definitely came off as emotionally immature due to something much more than ADHD. But honestly what bothered me than that was after he officially asked her to be his boyfriend and confessing his love (after years of her thinking he already was), he said he was pretending the be the boyfriend for her dad. And then talks about how she is mentally unstable. It went from 3 star for the sweetness to 2 at that point. Also, the amount of times they shot and killed someone in their apartment complex and nobody heard and investigated?
I love the premise behind this, but I couldn’t help but get the ick because Fallon did not come off as just neurodivergent or a little quirky, she definitely came off as emotionally immature due to something much more than ADHD. But honestly what bothered me than that was after he officially asked her to be his boyfriend and confessing his love (after years of her thinking he already was), he said he was pretending the be the boyfriend for her dad. And then talks about how she is mentally unstable. It went from 3 star for the sweetness to 2 at that point. Also, the amount of times they shot and killed someone in their apartment complex and nobody heard and investigated?
April 7, 2026
I’m sorry…..did I just read a book where they have a Santa and elf kink?
Where she wrapped her hand around his “manly hardness”?????????
HELLO???
I want to know which one of yall rated this 5 stars and how much you get paid?
There ain’t no way.
Where she wrapped her hand around his “manly hardness”?????????
HELLO???
I want to know which one of yall rated this 5 stars and how much you get paid?
There ain’t no way.
February 18, 2026
Hmm, not sure!
It was okay at first. Quirky.
There were things that didn't make sense.
It was okay at first. Quirky.
There were things that didn't make sense.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews