What do you think?
Rate this book
The Cost of Silence: The Syndicate Legacy Series
Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26The Cost of Silence
When journalist Isabella Romano exposes New York’s most enigmatic billionaire family, she thinks she’s telling the truth.
Nico Mancini knows she’s lit a fuse.
Someone wants her quiet. Someone willing to kill for it.
Saving her was never part of his plan, but now she’s in his home, under his protection, and in the crosshairs of enemies older and darker than she can imagine.
He’s determined to keep her alive.
She’s determined not to lose herself to the man she swore to expose.
But the truth has a price…
And falling for each other might be the highest cost of all.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 24, 2026
3 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
L. Knight
18 books237 followersLia Knight is a romance author of billionaire romance with lots of angst, and heat. Her heroes are super rich, demanding and know exactly what they want, so when they set their sights on the heroines in these books you know the chemistry will explode your kindle. Having written over forty books under a different pen name she wanted to give those rich, bossy heroes fighting for a story a chance have their say and find their HEA. When she isn't writing she is bingeing Yellowstone, The Big Bang Theory and Bridgerton from her home in Hereford in the UK.
Represented by Nikki Groom at SBR Media.
For all publishing rights please contact nikki@sbrmedia.com
Represented by Nikki Groom at SBR Media.
For all publishing rights please contact nikki@sbrmedia.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐️ Thank you NetGalley for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!!
This book is so good! It was fast paced and completely addictive. From the moment I started reading, I genuinely couldn't put it down. It had me hooked and refused let me go until I finished the book. Every chapter ended in a way that made it impossible for me to not keep reading!!
The romance, chemistry, and tension between Nico and Isabella were impeccable!! I really felt their connection through the pages. Their love felt real and undeniable.
The plot was thrilling and had me at the edge of my seat the entire time. I was literally sweating while reading because I was so invested in the characters and what was happening.
The family dynamic in this book is on another level! Whether found or blood, the sense of family was powerful and beautiful. It was one of my favorite aspects of the story and a huge reason why I was so emotionally invested. The relationship between the brothers was especially beautiful and added so much depth to the overall story.
Although I loved the book, the reason I didn't rate it 5 stars is because Isabella remained strong and logical for the entirety of the story, which I admired, but I would have loved at least one moment where we could see behind the curtain of her fearlessness. A scene where she broke down or allowed herself to not stay strong for a moment. Additionally, the story takes place over a relatively short period of time, and I felt the characters fell in love a bit too quickly given the intensity and speed of their relationship.
That being said, I still very much enjoyed the book and would absolutely recommend it to everyone! I genuinely can't wait for the next book in the series!!
This book is so good! It was fast paced and completely addictive. From the moment I started reading, I genuinely couldn't put it down. It had me hooked and refused let me go until I finished the book. Every chapter ended in a way that made it impossible for me to not keep reading!!
The romance, chemistry, and tension between Nico and Isabella were impeccable!! I really felt their connection through the pages. Their love felt real and undeniable.
The plot was thrilling and had me at the edge of my seat the entire time. I was literally sweating while reading because I was so invested in the characters and what was happening.
The family dynamic in this book is on another level! Whether found or blood, the sense of family was powerful and beautiful. It was one of my favorite aspects of the story and a huge reason why I was so emotionally invested. The relationship between the brothers was especially beautiful and added so much depth to the overall story.
Although I loved the book, the reason I didn't rate it 5 stars is because Isabella remained strong and logical for the entirety of the story, which I admired, but I would have loved at least one moment where we could see behind the curtain of her fearlessness. A scene where she broke down or allowed herself to not stay strong for a moment. Additionally, the story takes place over a relatively short period of time, and I felt the characters fell in love a bit too quickly given the intensity and speed of their relationship.
That being said, I still very much enjoyed the book and would absolutely recommend it to everyone! I genuinely can't wait for the next book in the series!!
Read
February 10, 2026This book surprised me in so many ways. Usually, in these mafia romances, the female lead ends up being very naive, but Isabella is anything but that. Her trust in Nico is built chapter by chapter, perfectly woven into the suspenseful narrative. I also laughed so much—the sibling dynamics are fantastic, and Mateo is such a sweetheart! This was my first L. Knight book of many to come. I’m already anxious for Casey and Adriano’s story and hope to read it very soon.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I know we haven’t heard much from L Knight for a while but crikey, did she come back to us with a huge bang!!!!! This story holds you a willing prisoner for the duration and I couldn’t have been happier to make myself comfortable with Nico and Isabella, Matteo and Adi, by forgetting Rossi, and watch as their lives unravel.
L Knight has brought us a story full of tension, family, a huge amount of heat, betrayal and grief, alpha males with a willingness to burn the world down to keep their loved ones safe.
Watching Nico and Isabella traverse their path was all consuming and addictive. Their chemistry and bond was instant and strong. I loved how easily Isabella re-evaluated the picture of Nico she had in her head. Keeping her judgement on hold as she had a front row seat to his soft, caring side.
And I loved the family aspect of this story. The closeness, support and love that they all share was beautiful to see. It added an extra dimension to an already perfect story.
This story is full to the brim with a maelstrom of emotions that pack one heck of a punch, and a depth that will, without a doubt, leave you breathless and aching for more.
Without hesitation, I would recommend this book and author to anyone and everyone. An absolutely perfect read!!!!
L Knight has brought us a story full of tension, family, a huge amount of heat, betrayal and grief, alpha males with a willingness to burn the world down to keep their loved ones safe.
Watching Nico and Isabella traverse their path was all consuming and addictive. Their chemistry and bond was instant and strong. I loved how easily Isabella re-evaluated the picture of Nico she had in her head. Keeping her judgement on hold as she had a front row seat to his soft, caring side.
And I loved the family aspect of this story. The closeness, support and love that they all share was beautiful to see. It added an extra dimension to an already perfect story.
This story is full to the brim with a maelstrom of emotions that pack one heck of a punch, and a depth that will, without a doubt, leave you breathless and aching for more.
Without hesitation, I would recommend this book and author to anyone and everyone. An absolutely perfect read!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh Wow - I want more…… What a great start to a new series. I just love Nico and Isabella.
The suspense was great, the back story intricate and well written and the side characters make you want to read the next instalments immediately.
“A slight smudge sits over my mother’s face as if my father had run his fingers over the image time and again. In that moment, I want to hide this picture away so the smudge is never wiped off, so the physical reminder of his love for his family isn’t erased. That thumbprint is proof love leaves marks deeper than loss ever could.”
This story is one of love, loss and family with a boat load of suspense, intrigue and mafia.
“I’ve never wanted to be someone’s warrior. But for her, I’m realizing I’d be the war itself.”
You get drawn into the story so you feel part of it, so now I want to know Adi’s story so badly - little Letty is going to be a whirlwind for her father but we never quite got to the bottom of what happened to her mother.
Then there is Matteo - he is going to be brought to his knees by someone and he’s not going to know what hit him.
And not forgetting the strong but very silent Rossi.
But there are still dangers - a rat in the mixing bowl that hasn’t yet been found. I want more, I hope we don’t have to wait too long.
The suspense was great, the back story intricate and well written and the side characters make you want to read the next instalments immediately.
“A slight smudge sits over my mother’s face as if my father had run his fingers over the image time and again. In that moment, I want to hide this picture away so the smudge is never wiped off, so the physical reminder of his love for his family isn’t erased. That thumbprint is proof love leaves marks deeper than loss ever could.”
This story is one of love, loss and family with a boat load of suspense, intrigue and mafia.
“I’ve never wanted to be someone’s warrior. But for her, I’m realizing I’d be the war itself.”
You get drawn into the story so you feel part of it, so now I want to know Adi’s story so badly - little Letty is going to be a whirlwind for her father but we never quite got to the bottom of what happened to her mother.
Then there is Matteo - he is going to be brought to his knees by someone and he’s not going to know what hit him.
And not forgetting the strong but very silent Rossi.
But there are still dangers - a rat in the mixing bowl that hasn’t yet been found. I want more, I hope we don’t have to wait too long.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Isabella Romano built her career exposing powerful men.
Nico Mancini was supposed to be her biggest takedown.
Instead, he becomes her most dangerous mistake.
When Isabella publishes a story that threatens New York’s most untouchable billionaire family, she thinks she’s telling the truth. Nico knows better. She’s used as bait by someone who wants blood, silence, and control.
Now she’s marked.
Saving her wasn’t part of his strategy. But once she’s under his roof, and in his bed, Nico realizes the real danger isn’t the enemies circling them—it’s the way she looks at him like she still wants answers… and the way he wants to make her forget every question. The heat is off.the.charts!
Instead, he shields her with his body, his power, and his sins—while fighting the hunger between them that could destroy them both.
Because the truth doesn’t just get people killed. And falling for your enemy might be the most lethal choice of all.
This story is so well told that you feel every emotion in your heart, and Nico becomes your new book boyfriend! So looking forward to the next book in this series!
Instead, he becomes her most dangerous mistake.
When Isabella publishes a story that threatens New York’s most untouchable billionaire family, she thinks she’s telling the truth. Nico knows better. She’s used as bait by someone who wants blood, silence, and control.
Now she’s marked.
Saving her wasn’t part of his strategy. But once she’s under his roof, and in his bed, Nico realizes the real danger isn’t the enemies circling them—it’s the way she looks at him like she still wants answers… and the way he wants to make her forget every question. The heat is off.the.charts!
Instead, he shields her with his body, his power, and his sins—while fighting the hunger between them that could destroy them both.
Because the truth doesn’t just get people killed. And falling for your enemy might be the most lethal choice of all.
This story is so well told that you feel every emotion in your heart, and Nico becomes your new book boyfriend! So looking forward to the next book in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again L Knight has written a totally exciting book based on Isabella a truth seeking reporter who will publish her findings no matter the cost or danger to herself.
Mateo and his 3 brothers have made good on their fathers final wishes to take away their Mafia business into the light of legitimacy until Isabella publishes a huge expose on the family which has rocked readers and the publishing world except she has endangered herself as well from old guard former affiliates still angry at the sons forsaking all mafia connections. They meet when Mateo pulls Isabella out of the way of a potential hit and run. After a second attempt Mateo realizes there is an attraction and he arbitrarily forces Isabella to take refuge under his protection at his penthouse. The electricity between them is hard to ignore and as everything unfolds the deeper and darker things turn. Once again L Knight has written a totally exciting book that captures and holds readers attention from first to last page in this totally twisted and exciting story!
Mateo and his 3 brothers have made good on their fathers final wishes to take away their Mafia business into the light of legitimacy until Isabella publishes a huge expose on the family which has rocked readers and the publishing world except she has endangered herself as well from old guard former affiliates still angry at the sons forsaking all mafia connections. They meet when Mateo pulls Isabella out of the way of a potential hit and run. After a second attempt Mateo realizes there is an attraction and he arbitrarily forces Isabella to take refuge under his protection at his penthouse. The electricity between them is hard to ignore and as everything unfolds the deeper and darker things turn. Once again L Knight has written a totally exciting book that captures and holds readers attention from first to last page in this totally twisted and exciting story!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I normally don't read dark romance - mafia, billionaire, dark academia, etc. because every time I jump into the genre, the concept is usually completely ridiculous, the FMC is helpless and the MMC is prone to use violence instead of his words so when I had a mafia novel as one of my trope challenges, I groaned.
Clearly, I was reading the wrong authors because L. Knight has completely changed my view of mafia novels going forward. I loved Isabella because she was a strong-willed FMC who understood her circumstances and went with the flow when Nico, our mafia don MMC with a heart of gold, was trying to protect her. Although the instalove can be eye-roll inducing normally, I didn't mind it in this case because Isabella and Nico had such great chemistry. I also really loved both Matteo & Adi and am glad this is already listed as a series because I will be picking up their books!
Thanks to #Netgalley & Maddie Wade LTD for the ARC!
Clearly, I was reading the wrong authors because L. Knight has completely changed my view of mafia novels going forward. I loved Isabella because she was a strong-willed FMC who understood her circumstances and went with the flow when Nico, our mafia don MMC with a heart of gold, was trying to protect her. Although the instalove can be eye-roll inducing normally, I didn't mind it in this case because Isabella and Nico had such great chemistry. I also really loved both Matteo & Adi and am glad this is already listed as a series because I will be picking up their books!
Thanks to #Netgalley & Maddie Wade LTD for the ARC!
Review of advance copy
This is the first book in The Syndicate Legacy series. I loved everything about Nico and Isabella's story. I was hooked from the beginning. Isabella is a reporter who is determined to speak the truth in every story she writes, with no apologies. Suddenly, strange things started happening that she passed off as random occurrences. She and Nico met when he saved her from certain disaster. They are both wary of each other. She firmly believes he is a "mob boss" and he is convinced she's just a "nosy reporter", determined to cause trouble for him and his brothers. However, those assumptions fall apart the more time they spend together. It doesn't take long for feelings to develop. Isabella chafes under the "rules" Nico sets, even though they are there to protect her. When danger and betrayal collide, will Nico be able to save Isabella so they can have the HEA they deserve? Get this book and find out. Sorry, no spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so good. Just amazing. Mafia themed and fast paced.
This was about journalist Isabella who is targeted after writing a story on the Mancini family and the eldest brother Nico who rescues her.
These two had the best chemistry. Their interactions were steamy, romantic, but also intense. Nico was very much the alpha but he was all about protecting her and getting the company legit.
I loved Nico's brother's, Matteo and Adi with his daughter Letty. The whole family network was such a nice look at how they are turning things around.
Dangerous, betrayals, secrets and action packed made this a must read. The whole story kept me involved and the writing was very easy read. Brilliant book!!
This was about journalist Isabella who is targeted after writing a story on the Mancini family and the eldest brother Nico who rescues her.
These two had the best chemistry. Their interactions were steamy, romantic, but also intense. Nico was very much the alpha but he was all about protecting her and getting the company legit.
I loved Nico's brother's, Matteo and Adi with his daughter Letty. The whole family network was such a nice look at how they are turning things around.
Dangerous, betrayals, secrets and action packed made this a must read. The whole story kept me involved and the writing was very easy read. Brilliant book!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could sense the intense emotions, feel the looks and touches, even almost hear the laughter and banter. The descriptions and realism so good, depth of the characters, the history shared or not. Evidence and clues that show an underlying basis. Action and sizzle and most important of all Family, blood or bond. Mafia changing for the better, going clean or at least as clean as they can possibly get given the generations before, from my point of view is a good thing. This plot was handled really well keeping the edge but also trying not to shed blood unless it was absolutely the only way for the better side to solve and stop it. First in a new series and I already can't wait to read book 2.
February 6, 2026
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book at first, but the more I read, the more I liked it. Isabella is a tough, take no prisoners reporter and Nico is the Mafia Don who is trying to lead by heart. As bossy as Nico is, that doesn’t stop Isabella from standing her ground. Isabella brought life and light back into the Mancini brothers life’s and they showed their gratitude by protecting her, just like she was protecting Nico’s heart. I’m certain the next book is Adi’s & I cannot wait for it, but the one I’m most looking forward to is Matteo’s book 😉
Review of advance copy
The Legacy you leave a choice? L Knight starts off another series with a bestseller. I could not put this book down. If you like your heros morally grey and your heroines tough this is a book for you. A page turner. This book tells the story of family and how important is to honor that and make sure yiu are leaving a legacy you choice and can be proud of. So grab a bowl of pasta and pick your Italian book boyfriend. Wink wink.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has it all suspense, danger, and wonderful characters! The story will pull you in and keep you so engaged that you won't want to stop reading. The way the brothers all stick together and we can't forget the loyal Rossi. After everything that Matteo and Isabella go thru to get their HEA and then to find out someone has betrayed them and they don't know who. Hope we don't have to wait too long to get Ari's story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved Nico and Isabella’s story. A reporter too good at what she does opens up Pandora’s box for the Mancini family and Nico sees only one possible course of action but gets way more than he bargained for. The family drama and secrets run deep and there’s one that has much to lose. The chemistry between Nico and Isabella was off the charts and their banter kept you engaged until the end as the danger swirled around them. Thanks to the author for opportunity to read and review her work.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Isabella and Nico's story and one that I can guarantee I will reread again. I devoured this book in one setting and hated when it ended. This story from page one till the very last page is absolutely amazing.
L. Knight is a one click author every time, I highly recommend it. It has everything you have come to expect from this authors work, and a great HEA!
L. Knight is a one click author every time, I highly recommend it. It has everything you have come to expect from this authors work, and a great HEA!
Review of advance copy
Mafia turned legal. A family morning turns into a new chapter, until the past shows its ugly self. A-mist a journalist, a secret and a connection. Danger is near, trying to close in. Action, passion, patience and family.
February 8, 2026
Okay, loved this! I struggled to put it down. A nice, fast-paced read that had me hooked from the first chapter. Definitely different from the usual “mafia”-esque style books! Highly recommend reading this when it’s officially released!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Truth is subjective. Every "truth" has a side, depending on your views. For Isabella, she was positive that what she reported was true. For Nico, her truth is not even close. Fast paced, intriguing, full of family drama and suspense.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
A great start to another series.
The Mancini brothers. Nico Adi and Matteo. Trying to become honest businessmen are written up by a journalist. Can they prove her wrong?
Whilst this happening Nico falls for Isabella, the journalist as they try to sort things out.
The Mancini brothers. Nico Adi and Matteo. Trying to become honest businessmen are written up by a journalist. Can they prove her wrong?
Whilst this happening Nico falls for Isabella, the journalist as they try to sort things out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Steamy suspense with a side of feel good mafia romance. A strong hero with a gooey center. A strong heroine who figures out it’s ok to let your man take care of you. An awesome beginning for a new series!! L. Knight does not disappoint!!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews