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Kings of the Riviera #1
The Heart You Kept
From #1 Amazon bestselling author T L Swan, comes the seductive world of forbidden luxury, where nothing is as it seems. Welcome to the addiction that is Kings Of The Riviera
He was never meant to be anything more than a memory.
But now he’s back… and more magnetic than ever.
Three years after a secret weekend in the Swiss Alps, Alora Sorenson thought she’d completely moved on from the mysterious man who turned her world upside down. That is until Edward Prescott walks back into her richer, more powerful, and even harder to resist.
As the billionaire owner of the world’s largest casino empire, Edward is the definition of untouchable. He’s a dark, commanding force in a world of high society, luxury yachts, and ruthless enemies.
Alora prefers a serene and simple life, surrounded by antiques and vintage fashion.
She doesn’t belong in his world, and yet… she’s never stopped wanting him.
But behind his intoxicating charm lie hidden dangers, and in the shadows of the Riviera, will the past reemerge and destroy everything?
Secrets brought them together.
But will they also tear them apart?
He was never meant to be anything more than a memory.
But now he’s back… and more magnetic than ever.
Three years after a secret weekend in the Swiss Alps, Alora Sorenson thought she’d completely moved on from the mysterious man who turned her world upside down. That is until Edward Prescott walks back into her richer, more powerful, and even harder to resist.
As the billionaire owner of the world’s largest casino empire, Edward is the definition of untouchable. He’s a dark, commanding force in a world of high society, luxury yachts, and ruthless enemies.
Alora prefers a serene and simple life, surrounded by antiques and vintage fashion.
She doesn’t belong in his world, and yet… she’s never stopped wanting him.
But behind his intoxicating charm lie hidden dangers, and in the shadows of the Riviera, will the past reemerge and destroy everything?
Secrets brought them together.
But will they also tear them apart?
622 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2026
2366 people are currently reading
14290 people want to read
About the author
T.L. Swan
36 books23.9k followersT L Swan is a #1 Amazon best-selling author and a professional daydream believer. Based on the scenic South Coast of NSW with her husband and three kids, she's seen her books take the romance world by storm with multiple #1 best sellers and translated editions of her books in over 20 languages.
Best known for "The Miles High Club" series, all of her books exist in an inter-connected universe that exudes luxury and desire. Her mission is crafting steamy, tender, and unforgettable romantic stories that stay with you long after you’ve closed the book.
Best known for "The Miles High Club" series, all of her books exist in an inter-connected universe that exudes luxury and desire. Her mission is crafting steamy, tender, and unforgettable romantic stories that stay with you long after you’ve closed the book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 777 reviews
May 6, 2026
⚠️ NO WARNING BEFOREHAND ABOUT APPARENTLY BOOK 2 + ENDS ON A CLIFFHANGER ⚠️
I feel completely cheated and manipulated. Finding out halfway through or worse, at the END that this book doesn’t stand alone and ends on a cliffhanger should honestly be illegal.
Authors should clearly say BEFORE you start reading if a book is part of a duet/series or has no real ending. Put it in the blurb, intro, or trigger warnings in big capital letters. Readers deserve transparency instead of being tricked into continuing a series unexpectedly.
I always wait until all books are released for this exact reason, and I’m extremely frustrated this wasn’t made clear beforehand
I feel completely cheated and manipulated. Finding out halfway through or worse, at the END that this book doesn’t stand alone and ends on a cliffhanger should honestly be illegal.
Authors should clearly say BEFORE you start reading if a book is part of a duet/series or has no real ending. Put it in the blurb, intro, or trigger warnings in big capital letters. Readers deserve transparency instead of being tricked into continuing a series unexpectedly.
I always wait until all books are released for this exact reason, and I’m extremely frustrated this wasn’t made clear beforehand
May 6, 2026
5 The way we were ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A new CR that was actually romantic 🙌 And it really, really was.❤️
Was it flawless? God no 😂 But not a million dollars could have made me put this away.
Do you know the movie The Way We Were? That’s the trajectory of this, or that of Twilight.
They love each other but are so, so different, with a world that wants them apart.😭 It was so well done. 🙌 Well done Mrs. Swan.
There are no obvious tropes, this is ORIGINAL and the 5 ⭐️’s are for that.
The beginning was a lot though😂 but here we go, give it the benefit of the doubt.
Edward and Alora meet when they are randomly paired at a kink hotel. It’s anonymous, but they somehow connect against all odds. Yes I know 🙄 but their chemistry was sizzling.
Three years later, they meet at a charity event in Monaco.
Alora is now an antique dealer in Nice and Edward an even more powerful casino owner in Monaco. Sparks fly when they reconnect and identities are revealed, but both have long-term partners and restraint must be had. They had both been searching for the other to no avail.
They circle each other like tigers for a long time, and they know they are soulmates, but soulmates living incompatible lives.❤️🩹
This was the sexiest slow burn I have read in a long time. The power struggle between them was intense and realistic, and it completely brought me back to my single days, where I would sit waiting for the phone to ring… yes I am eye rolling at my younger self.😂
However, it felt like a realistic portrayal of how a relationship actually starts, with insecurities and differences.❤️
Edward has never really loved, but he knows something is terribly wrong with him as his feelings intensify towards Alora 😂 and his conversations with his therapist were absolutely delightful and created comic relief as the angst was building.❤️
Can you love someone who doesn’t want to be loved 😢
He had it, love, but he didn’t want it.
Alora kept yearning for the softer man living deep inside him.
“What we nearly had. But what you couldn’t give me.”
The romance arc kept raising the stakes, and it was so well done. Standing ovation 👏
Edward is a realistic portrayal of what an obsessed man looks like, he crossed all boundaries to protect her while not wanting her. Until he couldn’t live without her….❤️
Alora was a great FMC, she knew what she wanted from Edward and didn’t settle for sex or crumbs. Finally.
Listen, I have a list of things that weren’t great, but in the end, I was wowed and had a fantastic time.
List:
1/ Ming lamps, really? You mean a Ming vase, right?
2/ Why could he have a relationship with Hermione?
3/ You can’t be a business owner in Nice without speaking French?
4/ It’s a long book.
So not perfect, but a fantastic time. If you like Laurelin Paige, you will love this. It ends on a mother of a cliffhanger.
Should you read it? ABSOLUTELY!
Chance of divorce? Can’t tell you.🤐
Ps. This is very Gen X coded, in the good way.
A new CR that was actually romantic 🙌 And it really, really was.❤️
Was it flawless? God no 😂 But not a million dollars could have made me put this away.
Do you know the movie The Way We Were? That’s the trajectory of this, or that of Twilight.
They love each other but are so, so different, with a world that wants them apart.😭 It was so well done. 🙌 Well done Mrs. Swan.
There are no obvious tropes, this is ORIGINAL and the 5 ⭐️’s are for that.
The beginning was a lot though😂 but here we go, give it the benefit of the doubt.
Edward and Alora meet when they are randomly paired at a kink hotel. It’s anonymous, but they somehow connect against all odds. Yes I know 🙄 but their chemistry was sizzling.
Three years later, they meet at a charity event in Monaco.
Alora is now an antique dealer in Nice and Edward an even more powerful casino owner in Monaco. Sparks fly when they reconnect and identities are revealed, but both have long-term partners and restraint must be had. They had both been searching for the other to no avail.
They circle each other like tigers for a long time, and they know they are soulmates, but soulmates living incompatible lives.❤️🩹
This was the sexiest slow burn I have read in a long time. The power struggle between them was intense and realistic, and it completely brought me back to my single days, where I would sit waiting for the phone to ring… yes I am eye rolling at my younger self.😂
However, it felt like a realistic portrayal of how a relationship actually starts, with insecurities and differences.❤️
Edward has never really loved, but he knows something is terribly wrong with him as his feelings intensify towards Alora 😂 and his conversations with his therapist were absolutely delightful and created comic relief as the angst was building.❤️
Can you love someone who doesn’t want to be loved 😢
He had it, love, but he didn’t want it.
Alora kept yearning for the softer man living deep inside him.
“What we nearly had. But what you couldn’t give me.”
The romance arc kept raising the stakes, and it was so well done. Standing ovation 👏
Edward is a realistic portrayal of what an obsessed man looks like, he crossed all boundaries to protect her while not wanting her. Until he couldn’t live without her….❤️
Alora was a great FMC, she knew what she wanted from Edward and didn’t settle for sex or crumbs. Finally.
Listen, I have a list of things that weren’t great, but in the end, I was wowed and had a fantastic time.
List:
1/ Ming lamps, really? You mean a Ming vase, right?
2/ Why could he have a relationship with Hermione?
3/ You can’t be a business owner in Nice without speaking French?
4/ It’s a long book.
So not perfect, but a fantastic time. If you like Laurelin Paige, you will love this. It ends on a mother of a cliffhanger.
Should you read it? ABSOLUTELY!
Chance of divorce? Can’t tell you.🤐
Ps. This is very Gen X coded, in the good way.
Did Not Finish
May 7, 2026ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
DNF.
I went into this book with very little sense of what to expect, as the synopsis felt somewhat vague. Unfortunately, it didn’t resonate with me. Within the first few chapters, I found myself skimming, struggling to stay engaged. The narrative shifts abruptly between scenes, which made it difficult to follow and left me feeling disoriented.
While I can understand why others might appreciate its style, it ultimately wasn’t a good fit for me. I seem to be in the minority on this one, but it just didn’t work for my reading preferences..
Not rating it of course. I don't think this author is for me. Also this does end in a cliffhanger and from what I am reading in other reviews it's a year wait.
DNF.
I went into this book with very little sense of what to expect, as the synopsis felt somewhat vague. Unfortunately, it didn’t resonate with me. Within the first few chapters, I found myself skimming, struggling to stay engaged. The narrative shifts abruptly between scenes, which made it difficult to follow and left me feeling disoriented.
While I can understand why others might appreciate its style, it ultimately wasn’t a good fit for me. I seem to be in the minority on this one, but it just didn’t work for my reading preferences..
Not rating it of course. I don't think this author is for me. Also this does end in a cliffhanger and from what I am reading in other reviews it's a year wait.
May 1, 2026
SO MUCH POTENTIAL! But fell flat.
What happened to the best friend that 💀 at the beginning? We never heard anything else about her.
What happened to the bucket list? Nothing else was even mentioned about it.
She went to the resort to p*g this man. Nothing else of that was ever spoke about again.
Edward could’ve been GREAT if he wasn’t such an ssa 90% of the time.
Where did the random POVs from different characters come from? Why was that included?
I just don’t know man. I tried, I really did. Maybe it was just me who didn’t really understand what was going on.
What happened to the best friend that 💀 at the beginning? We never heard anything else about her.
What happened to the bucket list? Nothing else was even mentioned about it.
She went to the resort to p*g this man. Nothing else of that was ever spoke about again.
Edward could’ve been GREAT if he wasn’t such an ssa 90% of the time.
Where did the random POVs from different characters come from? Why was that included?
I just don’t know man. I tried, I really did. Maybe it was just me who didn’t really understand what was going on.
May 10, 2026
SLIGHTLY SPOILY
Ok so I’m finally reading the entire book and 50% of the way in I started getting pissed off- just a feeling I was going to be mad when I finished this. So I decided to check things out on Goodreads- the end is a cliffhanger and , well it sounds like something I would not enjoy. HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT. I’ve waited ages for this frickin book. I’m done. I’m basically over her writing, which isn’t the best. Her characters are generally over the top. I guess her books served a purpose in my life for a time I’m just not really sure what it was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book was a twisty, spicy, slightly emotional ride, that sucked me in and kept me hooked!
Alora loses her best friend and wants to finish her bucket list. It leads her to a kink club & a two night stand with Edward. This Billionaire MMC is dark, dangerous, and their connection is immediate!! However they leave the weekend with no names, contacts, and going their separate ways.
3 years later they find themselves back in each others lives, but they both have significant others. This book was a wild rollercoaster ride that gives so much heat, heart, and even some suspense that will keep you on your toes!! The ending has me so ready for what’s to come & I cannot believe we have to wait!!
Thank you Arndell & NetGalley for this early copy!
Alora loses her best friend and wants to finish her bucket list. It leads her to a kink club & a two night stand with Edward. This Billionaire MMC is dark, dangerous, and their connection is immediate!! However they leave the weekend with no names, contacts, and going their separate ways.
3 years later they find themselves back in each others lives, but they both have significant others. This book was a wild rollercoaster ride that gives so much heat, heart, and even some suspense that will keep you on your toes!! The ending has me so ready for what’s to come & I cannot believe we have to wait!!
Thank you Arndell & NetGalley for this early copy!
April 29, 2026
First of all, thank you netgalley for the advanced review copy. Not spending money on this book was possibly the best thing about it.
The writing was choppy, the plot was all over the place, the motives make zero sense, and for how long this was for a romance it ends on a massive cliffhanger. If you told me this was translated from another language I would’ve believed it with how choppy it was.
The writing was choppy, the plot was all over the place, the motives make zero sense, and for how long this was for a romance it ends on a massive cliffhanger. If you told me this was translated from another language I would’ve believed it with how choppy it was.
May 4, 2026
DNF at 30%. I had heard really wonderful things about TL Swan’s books and was very excited to receive this ARC.
The premise was really fascinating and different. It had a lot of potential. The writing felt very choppy and the formatting was odd resulting in POV jumping in weird places and sudden scenes changes within chapters, which could just be because it was an ARC.
The random POVs from other characters were a little distracting and the writing felt…off, I think. I could not connect to the love story and I could not get past the plot holes. Honestly, the book wasn’t “bad” per se, it just wasn’t for me. But I can see how others may enjoy it.
I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
The premise was really fascinating and different. It had a lot of potential. The writing felt very choppy and the formatting was odd resulting in POV jumping in weird places and sudden scenes changes within chapters, which could just be because it was an ARC.
The random POVs from other characters were a little distracting and the writing felt…off, I think. I could not connect to the love story and I could not get past the plot holes. Honestly, the book wasn’t “bad” per se, it just wasn’t for me. But I can see how others may enjoy it.
I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. This is my honest, voluntary review.
May 12, 2026
So Bored Of Tees Vaccuous Females That Allow Men To Project All Over Them. Genuinely, If You Enjoy Gagging For A Sexist, Miss Me With Your Presence
Really disgusting reading him submit a dom.
And her pretending she always was one.
Ugh.
I'm so glad interesting women never get on their knees for men.
Tee should be more responsible as she knows that Therapy does not work for Type A personalities.
They aren't there to recover, they're only there for affirmation and new vocabulary that they are not emotionally bonded with, at an Egotistical level.
Also, remember, all his reasons are mere excuses.
Hurt people do not hurt people.
That's an abusive Liberal lie.
Hurters of people have been allowed to weaponise all instances of negative emotions they have ever felt, to justify continuing to hurt people, for the entirety of their lives.
"A good life can't be stumbled upon..."
What a joke Tee is.
All Tee's MMC stumble back into their FMC's lives after socially and emotionally abusing them for months and then usually, after the FMC is vulnerable with him, and then he rapes her in return.
And yes, Tee specialises in making rapists feel sympathetic.
She claims you can dissociate while proactively denying a person consent.
No.
Dissociation is reactive.
He abuses her the whole way through this book.
Its an absolute privilege to watch Hasan Piker, a true authentic sexy rich cunt and know that E.L. James spawned a culture of Empathetic Narcissism over on BookTok.
Notice how all the toxic men lose their hair because their blood pressure is toxic?
Tee writes right wing men that look like left wing men.
Men like Edward, look like Palpatine and/or Jabba the Hutt or worse, Donald Trump.
I lived Operation Banner, and am also a Child Abuse victim that "has been through so much" and I don't perceive him, judging by how much her projects all over her, as having gone through enough.
I feel like Tee is so Patriarchial, theres a dick shes constantly gagging on.
A FUCKING PRENUP?
This social murderer of babies thinks he can financially coerce the woman he loves?
In a patriarchy?
A capitalist patriarchy?
Tee is so Toxic.
Was hoping an Orca attacked the yacht.
Are white colonisers still impressed by stuff like this?
How stunted and abusive.
The way hes yelling at her when she was chased by a car.
Tee, when is he supposed to be supportive?
Meanwhile hes allowed to mistreat her because of "his scars".
Tee part of the culture of why Ireland has weekly marches against Violence Against Women And Girls.
Just won't stop letting men pretend a negative emotion is mental illness.
Thus they don't murder people, they just be ill all over them to death.
Remember, trauma causes internalisation, not externalisation, its privilege that does that.
Narcissistic impulses are exercised by the narcissist all their lives.
Pretending its mere insecurity is kinda chronically pathetic and cultlike behaviour.
This is so out of touch.
He's benefitting from the modern genocides of Neoliberal Neocolonialism that we can all see on the news.
He calls her a nutcase after she has been attacked and has signed all of her domestic support as forever unpaid, ie depowered, once she marries him.
What an absolute toxic, misogynistic, ableist cunt.
Wow so many of your five star reviewers have no standards in men.
Communally abusing her by love bombing her in front of everyone when he knows shes hurt.
Ugh, Tee denies women agency over and over and punishes them, over and over when they try to take it.
Really disgusting reading him submit a dom.
And her pretending she always was one.
Ugh.
I'm so glad interesting women never get on their knees for men.
Tee should be more responsible as she knows that Therapy does not work for Type A personalities.
They aren't there to recover, they're only there for affirmation and new vocabulary that they are not emotionally bonded with, at an Egotistical level.
Also, remember, all his reasons are mere excuses.
Hurt people do not hurt people.
That's an abusive Liberal lie.
Hurters of people have been allowed to weaponise all instances of negative emotions they have ever felt, to justify continuing to hurt people, for the entirety of their lives.
"A good life can't be stumbled upon..."
What a joke Tee is.
All Tee's MMC stumble back into their FMC's lives after socially and emotionally abusing them for months and then usually, after the FMC is vulnerable with him, and then he rapes her in return.
And yes, Tee specialises in making rapists feel sympathetic.
She claims you can dissociate while proactively denying a person consent.
No.
Dissociation is reactive.
He abuses her the whole way through this book.
Its an absolute privilege to watch Hasan Piker, a true authentic sexy rich cunt and know that E.L. James spawned a culture of Empathetic Narcissism over on BookTok.
Notice how all the toxic men lose their hair because their blood pressure is toxic?
Tee writes right wing men that look like left wing men.
Men like Edward, look like Palpatine and/or Jabba the Hutt or worse, Donald Trump.
I lived Operation Banner, and am also a Child Abuse victim that "has been through so much" and I don't perceive him, judging by how much her projects all over her, as having gone through enough.
I feel like Tee is so Patriarchial, theres a dick shes constantly gagging on.
A FUCKING PRENUP?
This social murderer of babies thinks he can financially coerce the woman he loves?
In a patriarchy?
A capitalist patriarchy?
Tee is so Toxic.
Was hoping an Orca attacked the yacht.
Are white colonisers still impressed by stuff like this?
How stunted and abusive.
The way hes yelling at her when she was chased by a car.
Tee, when is he supposed to be supportive?
Meanwhile hes allowed to mistreat her because of "his scars".
Tee part of the culture of why Ireland has weekly marches against Violence Against Women And Girls.
Just won't stop letting men pretend a negative emotion is mental illness.
Thus they don't murder people, they just be ill all over them to death.
Remember, trauma causes internalisation, not externalisation, its privilege that does that.
Narcissistic impulses are exercised by the narcissist all their lives.
Pretending its mere insecurity is kinda chronically pathetic and cultlike behaviour.
This is so out of touch.
He's benefitting from the modern genocides of Neoliberal Neocolonialism that we can all see on the news.
He calls her a nutcase after she has been attacked and has signed all of her domestic support as forever unpaid, ie depowered, once she marries him.
What an absolute toxic, misogynistic, ableist cunt.
Wow so many of your five star reviewers have no standards in men.
Communally abusing her by love bombing her in front of everyone when he knows shes hurt.
Ugh, Tee denies women agency over and over and punishes them, over and over when they try to take it.
May 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
And there comes the cliffhanger… 🤦🏻♀️
This book easily could’ve been 100 pages shorter. That’s honestly the reason it lost a star for me — there were too many repetitive thoughts and unnecessary scenes that dragged the pacing down. At times, Alora’s decisions felt completely out of character and a little frustrating.
But despite that? I was still hooked. 🙈
Edward is exactly the kind of MMC T.L. Swan writes so well — powerful, dominant, filthy rich, ridiculously attractive… and yes, an English aristocrat with a title 😉
His life is all business meetings, constant travel, polo matches, and glamorous parties. Edward has convinced himself he doesn’t do relationships.
Then there’s Alora — soft, artistic, and completely opposite to his chaotic world. She loves gardening, vintage fashion, slow mornings in Nice, and working in her antique shop.
Three years ago, they shared one unforgettable weekend that was supposed to remain just a memory. But some people leave marks on your soul that time simply can’t erase. And the moment they meet again, it becomes painfully obvious that resisting each other is only a matter of time before everything explodes into passion🔥
The chemistry between them? Absolutely insane.
The tension? Delicious.
The spicy scenes? T.L. Swan never misses 🥵🔥
As always with this author, the story is packed with drama and emotions — heartbreak, longing, frustration, happiness, obsession… the whole emotional rollercoaster 💘
And on top of the romance, there’s also intrigue and a criminal subplot that adds suspense and keeps the story interesting right until that cruel ending.
Now excuse me while I suffer waiting for the next book 😭
✨ Tropes ✨
💘 Second chance romance
💼 Billionaire MMC
🔥 Insane chemistry
🖤 Opposites attract
😮💨 Dominant / bossy MMC
💔 “I don’t do relationships” MMC
🕯️ Hidden past & secrets
🌶️ Very spicy romance
🎭 Emotional drama
🖤 Obsessive attraction
🔍 Crime / mystery subplot
✨ Rich MMC x soft artistic FMC
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
And there comes the cliffhanger… 🤦🏻♀️
This book easily could’ve been 100 pages shorter. That’s honestly the reason it lost a star for me — there were too many repetitive thoughts and unnecessary scenes that dragged the pacing down. At times, Alora’s decisions felt completely out of character and a little frustrating.
But despite that? I was still hooked. 🙈
Edward is exactly the kind of MMC T.L. Swan writes so well — powerful, dominant, filthy rich, ridiculously attractive… and yes, an English aristocrat with a title 😉
His life is all business meetings, constant travel, polo matches, and glamorous parties. Edward has convinced himself he doesn’t do relationships.
Then there’s Alora — soft, artistic, and completely opposite to his chaotic world. She loves gardening, vintage fashion, slow mornings in Nice, and working in her antique shop.
Three years ago, they shared one unforgettable weekend that was supposed to remain just a memory. But some people leave marks on your soul that time simply can’t erase. And the moment they meet again, it becomes painfully obvious that resisting each other is only a matter of time before everything explodes into passion🔥
The chemistry between them? Absolutely insane.
The tension? Delicious.
The spicy scenes? T.L. Swan never misses 🥵🔥
As always with this author, the story is packed with drama and emotions — heartbreak, longing, frustration, happiness, obsession… the whole emotional rollercoaster 💘
And on top of the romance, there’s also intrigue and a criminal subplot that adds suspense and keeps the story interesting right until that cruel ending.
Now excuse me while I suffer waiting for the next book 😭
✨ Tropes ✨
💘 Second chance romance
💼 Billionaire MMC
🔥 Insane chemistry
🖤 Opposites attract
😮💨 Dominant / bossy MMC
💔 “I don’t do relationships” MMC
🕯️ Hidden past & secrets
🌶️ Very spicy romance
🎭 Emotional drama
🖤 Obsessive attraction
🔍 Crime / mystery subplot
✨ Rich MMC x soft artistic FMC
April 27, 2026
Thank you to Keeperton/Arndell and TL Swan for an early copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
We follow Alora Sorenson who lives in America, but when her best friend passes away, she is left with her bucket list that she wants to try and complete. One of the things that's listed on her bucket list, ends up with her attending a kink club in Switzerland. She is matched with this handsome guy who wants all the control, and they end up spending the weekend together. They are forced to part ways, and after 3 years have passed, they end up running into each other at a charity auction. The connection that they had 3 years ago is still there, and they are immediately drawn back to each other, but they can't be together for certain reasons.
I ATE THIS BOOK UP. I don't want to say too much about the story because of spoilers, but if you're looking for a billionaire romance with an MMC who is possessive & obsessive, an FMC who isn't afraid to speak her mind and knows her worth, with a sprinkle of mystery, this book is for you! This book was so much fun. As soon as I started the book, I didn't want to stop reading -- I finished this book in 2 days! This book does have a decent amount of spice, especially in the beginning (this is your warning). Mr. Edward "GET ON YOUR KNEES" Prescott, THIS MANNNNN - I love him & all of his flaws, seriously new book husband! 🥰 I'm in love with Alora & Edwards story -- they are complete opposites, but they were made for each other. Edward is this mysteriously sexy billionaire who will kill anyone who even looks at Alora, he's powerful and intense, but has a soft spot for Alora. I really enjoy the multiple POVs, especially "Darkness," it made this book stand out more than other romance suspense books that I've read. The ending?? WHAT THE ACTUAL HELL WAS THAT?!?!?! TL SWAN, I NEED ANSWERS!!! I wasn't expecting this book to end in a cliffhanger! 2027 needs to come sooner because I miss these characters already (it's been 9 days since I've finished this book, and I'm still thinking about this story), and I need to know how their story ends 😭
We follow Alora Sorenson who lives in America, but when her best friend passes away, she is left with her bucket list that she wants to try and complete. One of the things that's listed on her bucket list, ends up with her attending a kink club in Switzerland. She is matched with this handsome guy who wants all the control, and they end up spending the weekend together. They are forced to part ways, and after 3 years have passed, they end up running into each other at a charity auction. The connection that they had 3 years ago is still there, and they are immediately drawn back to each other, but they can't be together for certain reasons.
I ATE THIS BOOK UP. I don't want to say too much about the story because of spoilers, but if you're looking for a billionaire romance with an MMC who is possessive & obsessive, an FMC who isn't afraid to speak her mind and knows her worth, with a sprinkle of mystery, this book is for you! This book was so much fun. As soon as I started the book, I didn't want to stop reading -- I finished this book in 2 days! This book does have a decent amount of spice, especially in the beginning (this is your warning). Mr. Edward "GET ON YOUR KNEES" Prescott, THIS MANNNNN - I love him & all of his flaws, seriously new book husband! 🥰 I'm in love with Alora & Edwards story -- they are complete opposites, but they were made for each other. Edward is this mysteriously sexy billionaire who will kill anyone who even looks at Alora, he's powerful and intense, but has a soft spot for Alora. I really enjoy the multiple POVs, especially "Darkness," it made this book stand out more than other romance suspense books that I've read. The ending?? WHAT THE ACTUAL HELL WAS THAT?!?!?! TL SWAN, I NEED ANSWERS!!! I wasn't expecting this book to end in a cliffhanger! 2027 needs to come sooner because I miss these characters already (it's been 9 days since I've finished this book, and I'm still thinking about this story), and I need to know how their story ends 😭
Did Not Finish
May 4, 2026Look, TL knows how to deliver a billionaire romance. That’s not up for debate. But this one felt messy in a way that pulled me completely out of the story. The choppy transitions and time jumps that didn’t feel smooth made it hard to stay immersed in what was actually happening.
There were also multiple POVs that just… didn’t add anything. So many plot points felt either underdeveloped or abandoned. Even considering this was an ARC, this felt like more than just early-draft roughness.
It definitely had moments that reminded me why I usually enjoy TL Swan, but they weren’t enough to save it.
There were also multiple POVs that just… didn’t add anything. So many plot points felt either underdeveloped or abandoned. Even considering this was an ARC, this felt like more than just early-draft roughness.
It definitely had moments that reminded me why I usually enjoy TL Swan, but they weren’t enough to save it.
Did Not Finish
May 2, 2026I am heartbroken to do this. TL has been one of my favorite authors for years now. I’ve never not loved something she wrote, but to be completely honest this did not feel like a book from the TL that I know and love. It was a mess. It was so choppy that it was hard to keep up with. The writing was all over the place. The timelapses came out of no where and caused confusion. There was no chemistry between the main characters. I didn’t feel any yearning. I didn’t understand the random other POVs. This was unfortunately a fail for me.
Thank you so much to Arndell & Natgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review
Thank you so much to Arndell & Natgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review
March 25, 2026
WHAT WAS THAT ENDING. WHAT DO YOU MEAN I HAVE TO WAIT TILL 2027?!
- Billionaire Romance
- Chance Meet
- Time Jump
- Second Chance
After the sudden loss of her best friend, Alora is on a mission to finish her best friend’s bucket list. This is how she finds herself in a kink club with a British billionaire. And even though they can’t exchange names, one night turns into two where they both can’t get enough of each other. The bucket list even gets forgotten while Alora spends 48 hours living for herself and herself only.
Fast forward 3 years and a chance meets finds Alora & Edward back in each others life, in more ways than one. But each with a significant other by their side. Alora has found a man who makes her happy, but doesn't give her the joy she found with Edward. While Edward has settled with an European princess, he also has found he has just settled to make his family happy. Especially when she is of noble blood. But when they can't stop thinking about each other - They know they need to end what they have to start something new with each other.
But what if it is too late? What if fate has other ideas that results in them having to not just fight for their love, but their life together? And what if once they win each other - Another past comes out to play turning it all into a downfall?
This story is full of heart break, love and angst. It will get you frustrated, it will make you laugh, cry and feel it all. I simply, could not get enough. I also went into it not knowing there was a cliffhanger? Tee - you are cheeky!!
5/5 stars with 4/5 steam.
- Billionaire Romance
- Chance Meet
- Time Jump
- Second Chance
After the sudden loss of her best friend, Alora is on a mission to finish her best friend’s bucket list. This is how she finds herself in a kink club with a British billionaire. And even though they can’t exchange names, one night turns into two where they both can’t get enough of each other. The bucket list even gets forgotten while Alora spends 48 hours living for herself and herself only.
Fast forward 3 years and a chance meets finds Alora & Edward back in each others life, in more ways than one. But each with a significant other by their side. Alora has found a man who makes her happy, but doesn't give her the joy she found with Edward. While Edward has settled with an European princess, he also has found he has just settled to make his family happy. Especially when she is of noble blood. But when they can't stop thinking about each other - They know they need to end what they have to start something new with each other.
But what if it is too late? What if fate has other ideas that results in them having to not just fight for their love, but their life together? And what if once they win each other - Another past comes out to play turning it all into a downfall?
This story is full of heart break, love and angst. It will get you frustrated, it will make you laugh, cry and feel it all. I simply, could not get enough. I also went into it not knowing there was a cliffhanger? Tee - you are cheeky!!
5/5 stars with 4/5 steam.
May 6, 2026
First off, thank you to T.L. Swan and Arndell (Keeperton) for the advanced reader's copy of "The Heart You Kept." This book will be published on May 5, 2026.
TL Swan is my GOAT author, so when I found out that I got to read her first release in two years early, I was jumping up and down!!! Beware... this book ends on a CLIFFHANGER. I'm going to need the next book like YESTERDAY!!
PLEASE GO INTO THIS BOOK BLIND! I'm not going to put any spoilers in this review, but stop reading this review now if you don't want read a quick synopsis.
This book follows Edward Prescott (MMC - if you read the MR. series, this is Charlotte's brother from Mr. Spencer) a billionaire casino owner in Monte Carlo, Monaco and businessman, who wants control of EVERYTHING. Enter Alora Sorenson (FMC), a woman who has just lost her best friend and uncle. She moves to Nice, France to run an antique store after one weekend with a man she doesn't know. What happens when she runs into that man again and they are both in other relationships?? (Ps.. its really hard to write a recap here without spoiling too much hehehe)
This is honestly the easiest 5 stars I've ever given to a book. Even though this book is over 500 pages, I read it SO quickly because I just couldn't get enough of it!! The yearning, lust, and forbidden vibes are just right up my alley! 100% Touch her and die vibes!!
I love the POV changes between the main characters and even the side characters at times. Unlike TL Swans other books, this book has a suspense element to it. I have so many theories in my head right now, but I guess I'll have to wait until the next book is out to know what will happen next.
I went to Nice and Monte Carlo on my honeymoon, so it was so amazing to be able to have a real picture in my head of where they were, including the super yachts and where the prince of Monaco lives!!
In true TL Swan fashion, this book contains lots of that spicy smut that we love! If anyone wants to talk with me about this book after they read it, PLZ dm me!! I'm dying to talk about it!
Should you read this book?? YES YES AND YES! I will be screaming this book from the rooftops!!
TL Swan is my GOAT author, so when I found out that I got to read her first release in two years early, I was jumping up and down!!! Beware... this book ends on a CLIFFHANGER. I'm going to need the next book like YESTERDAY!!
PLEASE GO INTO THIS BOOK BLIND! I'm not going to put any spoilers in this review, but stop reading this review now if you don't want read a quick synopsis.
This book follows Edward Prescott (MMC - if you read the MR. series, this is Charlotte's brother from Mr. Spencer) a billionaire casino owner in Monte Carlo, Monaco and businessman, who wants control of EVERYTHING. Enter Alora Sorenson (FMC), a woman who has just lost her best friend and uncle. She moves to Nice, France to run an antique store after one weekend with a man she doesn't know. What happens when she runs into that man again and they are both in other relationships?? (Ps.. its really hard to write a recap here without spoiling too much hehehe)
This is honestly the easiest 5 stars I've ever given to a book. Even though this book is over 500 pages, I read it SO quickly because I just couldn't get enough of it!! The yearning, lust, and forbidden vibes are just right up my alley! 100% Touch her and die vibes!!
I love the POV changes between the main characters and even the side characters at times. Unlike TL Swans other books, this book has a suspense element to it. I have so many theories in my head right now, but I guess I'll have to wait until the next book is out to know what will happen next.
I went to Nice and Monte Carlo on my honeymoon, so it was so amazing to be able to have a real picture in my head of where they were, including the super yachts and where the prince of Monaco lives!!
In true TL Swan fashion, this book contains lots of that spicy smut that we love! If anyone wants to talk with me about this book after they read it, PLZ dm me!! I'm dying to talk about it!
Should you read this book?? YES YES AND YES! I will be screaming this book from the rooftops!!
April 30, 2026
I received this early review copy in exchange for an honest review; this review will contain spoilers.
The Heart You Kept was an interesting read, but I had a hard time fully connecting with it. I liked the overall plot enough to finish, and the story definitely has potential. However, the execution made it difficult at times. The sentence structure often felt choppy, with little separation between scenes, which made transitions confusing and, at times, frustrating. There were also quite a few repetitive phrases that pulled me out of the story.
One of my biggest struggles was the “pick me, choose me, love me” dynamic in certain moments. I liked their chemistry, but the constant “will they or won’t they?” aspect didn’t really work for me.
That said, I did appreciate the underlying messages about self-worth, standing up for yourself, protecting your peace, and allowing yourself to accept love. Those were strong and meaningful takeaways.
I also found myself getting stuck on some of the smaller inconsistencies. For example, if Alora’s father was working three jobs when she was younger, why didn’t her wealthy uncle step in to help? His death also felt a bit too convenient for the plot. The best friend’s death was significant early on, especially with the bucket list, but she was barely mentioned later. It felt unrealistic that she wouldn’t continue to be remembered.
There were also continuity details that didn’t quite add up. At one point, she’s in the shower wearing AirPods—which aren’t waterproof. Clarifying the scene or adjusting the description to avoid them getting wet would make this moment feel more realistic.
Later, something is described as costing more than her car, even though earlier she was riding a bike and getting rides from her guards, with no mention of her owning a car until then.
The storyline itself felt a bit all over the place. It jumped from kink elements, to sudden wealth, to second chance romance, to an overprotective/mafia-adjacent vibe, to a billionaire grumpy/sunshine romance. It didn’t feel very cohesive.
Overall, I did enjoy parts of this story. I do think it could have been shorter, but I liked it enough to finish. but I’m a little miffed at the cliffhanger and likely will not read book two.
Since this is an ARC, I’m hopeful that final edits will help smooth out some of these concerns.
Rating: 3.75 stars
The Heart You Kept was an interesting read, but I had a hard time fully connecting with it. I liked the overall plot enough to finish, and the story definitely has potential. However, the execution made it difficult at times. The sentence structure often felt choppy, with little separation between scenes, which made transitions confusing and, at times, frustrating. There were also quite a few repetitive phrases that pulled me out of the story.
One of my biggest struggles was the “pick me, choose me, love me” dynamic in certain moments. I liked their chemistry, but the constant “will they or won’t they?” aspect didn’t really work for me.
That said, I did appreciate the underlying messages about self-worth, standing up for yourself, protecting your peace, and allowing yourself to accept love. Those were strong and meaningful takeaways.
I also found myself getting stuck on some of the smaller inconsistencies. For example, if Alora’s father was working three jobs when she was younger, why didn’t her wealthy uncle step in to help? His death also felt a bit too convenient for the plot. The best friend’s death was significant early on, especially with the bucket list, but she was barely mentioned later. It felt unrealistic that she wouldn’t continue to be remembered.
There were also continuity details that didn’t quite add up. At one point, she’s in the shower wearing AirPods—which aren’t waterproof. Clarifying the scene or adjusting the description to avoid them getting wet would make this moment feel more realistic.
Later, something is described as costing more than her car, even though earlier she was riding a bike and getting rides from her guards, with no mention of her owning a car until then.
The storyline itself felt a bit all over the place. It jumped from kink elements, to sudden wealth, to second chance romance, to an overprotective/mafia-adjacent vibe, to a billionaire grumpy/sunshine romance. It didn’t feel very cohesive.
Overall, I did enjoy parts of this story. I do think it could have been shorter, but I liked it enough to finish. but I’m a little miffed at the cliffhanger and likely will not read book two.
Since this is an ARC, I’m hopeful that final edits will help smooth out some of these concerns.
Rating: 3.75 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
This book was an absolute whirlwind!!! The thriller vibes had me STRESSED! And the spice?? Deliciously unhinged. It was definitely on the longer side, but honestly I didn’t even care because I was fully invested the entire time. Emotional, intense, addictive, this one had me spiraling.
And THAT cliffhanger??? Actually rude. Waiting until 2027 for the next book feels criminal!!!!!!!!
This book was an absolute whirlwind!!! The thriller vibes had me STRESSED! And the spice?? Deliciously unhinged. It was definitely on the longer side, but honestly I didn’t even care because I was fully invested the entire time. Emotional, intense, addictive, this one had me spiraling.
And THAT cliffhanger??? Actually rude. Waiting until 2027 for the next book feels criminal!!!!!!!!
April 30, 2026
Went in expecting a steamy billionaire romance and came out with trust issues 🤯
I’m not exaggerating when I say this book emotionally drop kicked me.
I went in expecting a classic spicy billionaire romance (which, yes… delivered), but what I wasn’t prepared for was how deeply it would get under my skin.
Alora and Edward’s story starts with intensity and never really lets up. When they find their way back into each other’s orbit years later, it’s not soft or nostalgic… it’s heavier, sharper, and tangled in everything they didn’t get right the first time
Edward is… a lot. Powerful, controlled, used to getting exactly what he wants but with Alora, you see the cracks. He’ll test your patience and then somehow pull you right back in. And honestly, i love him for it. I spent half this book wanting to shake him and the other half… obsessed.
This book has everything - obsession, frustration, emotional damage… and somehow also had me cackling in parts. Completely consuming in that “just one more chapter” way.
And the ending??? Sorry what?! Being yeeted off a cliff by T.L. Swan was not on my bingo card. I just sat there like… excuse me??? THAT’S IT???
Respectfully, I need answers immediately. Also: go into this one blind. Trust me. Fair warning — you will spiral.
I’m not exaggerating when I say this book emotionally drop kicked me.
I went in expecting a classic spicy billionaire romance (which, yes… delivered), but what I wasn’t prepared for was how deeply it would get under my skin.
Alora and Edward’s story starts with intensity and never really lets up. When they find their way back into each other’s orbit years later, it’s not soft or nostalgic… it’s heavier, sharper, and tangled in everything they didn’t get right the first time
Edward is… a lot. Powerful, controlled, used to getting exactly what he wants but with Alora, you see the cracks. He’ll test your patience and then somehow pull you right back in. And honestly, i love him for it. I spent half this book wanting to shake him and the other half… obsessed.
This book has everything - obsession, frustration, emotional damage… and somehow also had me cackling in parts. Completely consuming in that “just one more chapter” way.
And the ending??? Sorry what?! Being yeeted off a cliff by T.L. Swan was not on my bingo card. I just sat there like… excuse me??? THAT’S IT???
Respectfully, I need answers immediately. Also: go into this one blind. Trust me. Fair warning — you will spiral.
Want to Read
November 22, 2024OMG IM READING MR. Spencer but im hoping for older brother Mr. Prescott’s book 💅🙌👀
May 7, 2026
Are. You. Freaking. Kidding. Me?!?! Finally we get a “book” that was teased and started in the holiday book how long ago???? Only to discover it’s not even an entire freaking story?! Ends in a cliffhanger and want to know how it ends? See ya in 2027…but realistically this author is known to not live up to her dates so there’s that.
ETA: The beginning was in her holiday book in 2023 and said full book coming 2024. It's now 2026 and the book is released and it's a freaking cliffhanger! I feel like this is a big middle finger to all her readers who patiently waited and what did we get - zero payoff. Also - went to FB to see if I missed anything regarding this being an incomplete story. The author had the nerve to tell readers to go in blind and trust her process and don't read any reviews that gives anything away! You mean gives away your inability to write a complete story in 40 freaking chapters??!!
This could have been one book - maybe less back and forth and if the author had moved the romance faster. I thought the “The End” was a joke. Everything I saw made me believe this was a standalone book and I feel like I was misled.
Seriously so disappointed and mad - CLIFFHANGERS ARE FOR TV SHOWS NOT BOOKS!!!!!!
Moving on to something that makes me feel less rage…you know like a complete book with a beginning, middle, and end that doesn’t require a freaking year to get to.
ETA: The beginning was in her holiday book in 2023 and said full book coming 2024. It's now 2026 and the book is released and it's a freaking cliffhanger! I feel like this is a big middle finger to all her readers who patiently waited and what did we get - zero payoff. Also - went to FB to see if I missed anything regarding this being an incomplete story. The author had the nerve to tell readers to go in blind and trust her process and don't read any reviews that gives anything away! You mean gives away your inability to write a complete story in 40 freaking chapters??!!
This could have been one book - maybe less back and forth and if the author had moved the romance faster. I thought the “The End” was a joke. Everything I saw made me believe this was a standalone book and I feel like I was misled.
Seriously so disappointed and mad - CLIFFHANGERS ARE FOR TV SHOWS NOT BOOKS!!!!!!
Moving on to something that makes me feel less rage…you know like a complete book with a beginning, middle, and end that doesn’t require a freaking year to get to.
May 13, 2026
Well it’s a good read with amazing construction characters. At the beginning I think the male character is a little childish but the more I read about him I see the complexity of his personality.
I really love the author’s style.
It’s worth reading.
Warning ⚠️
The female character’s friend who was the cause they joined at the beginning isn’t remembered by hers in the whole book.
It’s strange!🤔
May 6, 2026
I stopped at 35%. It was so choppy and most of the time, it made no sense.
The characters were quite immature and very unlikable. So much was not believable.
I’m definitely done with this author!
The characters were quite immature and very unlikable. So much was not believable.
I’m definitely done with this author!
May 3, 2026
I don’t even know where to begin. Thank you Hambright PR for the Arc.
Giving this book 3.5 stars.
Because the ending bumped it up. The book skips around to much, and is a tad to long in my opinion. Also the writing was driving me a bit crazy.
The book is messy, spicy and frustrating. Mr. Prescott is sexy, arrogant, controlling at times. He was actually pissing me off at times with him not being able to figure out his feelings and playing with our girl Alora.
Alora is sweet, yet naive. She comes into an inheritance that sets off her new career as an antique dealer. She is in a happy relationship until one night at event. She sees Mr. Doe again. The man she shared a kinky weekend with, and hasn’t stopped thinking about home since.
Did not realize this book was going to be a series, but I’m here for it!
Giving this book 3.5 stars.
Because the ending bumped it up. The book skips around to much, and is a tad to long in my opinion. Also the writing was driving me a bit crazy.
The book is messy, spicy and frustrating. Mr. Prescott is sexy, arrogant, controlling at times. He was actually pissing me off at times with him not being able to figure out his feelings and playing with our girl Alora.
Alora is sweet, yet naive. She comes into an inheritance that sets off her new career as an antique dealer. She is in a happy relationship until one night at event. She sees Mr. Doe again. The man she shared a kinky weekend with, and hasn’t stopped thinking about home since.
Did not realize this book was going to be a series, but I’m here for it!
May 7, 2026
I'm going to be perfectly honest with you, but I thought this book was ok. Just ok. It's been a couple of weeks since I read it, and I had forgotten most of everything, which is such a shame as I absolutely loved The Miles High Club series and am forever recommending them, but this just fell flat? Like there seemed to be a lot of half finished thoughts, she loved him, then she felt like she could love him, then she did love him again. What happened with the bucket list? She only had that one thing left on it and she seemed to forget all about it and her best friend. They both just seemed all over the place with their thoughts and feelings, and it was often a contradiction to previous chapters.
Will I read book 2? Yes, just to see what actually happens. Will I be in a rush to read it? Probably not, and that actually does pain me.
Will I read book 2? Yes, just to see what actually happens. Will I be in a rush to read it? Probably not, and that actually does pain me.
May 7, 2026
T. L. Swan always delivers in my opinion.
This was a true page-turner—I couldn't put it down. I’m still reeling from this ending. This had everything!🙌🏼🤯This will live rent free in my head until I get the next book.
This was my first immersive reading. It did not disappoint. Shane East and Victoria Connolly nailed it!
This was a true page-turner—I couldn't put it down. I’m still reeling from this ending. This had everything!🙌🏼🤯This will live rent free in my head until I get the next book.
This was my first immersive reading. It did not disappoint. Shane East and Victoria Connolly nailed it!
May 7, 2026
I was really disappointed, the story is fantastic but it doesn’t state in the caption that it’s a second book and that you have to wait until the 27nd of February 2027. Did not like the cliffhanger ending at all should have said in the caption that it’s a duet wasted 12 hours of my life and still don’t know how it ends I recommend everyone to wait until the second book comes out.
I’ve only given one Star due to this, but the stories is fantastic dual pov morally grey alpha men . Slow burn.
I’ve only given one Star due to this, but the stories is fantastic dual pov morally grey alpha men . Slow burn.
Read
May 9, 2026 I’ve loved so many of T. L. Swan’s books, especially the Miles High Club series, but unfortunately The Heart You Kept just did not fully work for me. The premise had SO much potential. Anonymous strangers meeting at an exclusive kink resort? A morally gray billionaire with control issues falling apart over the one woman he can’t forget? I was SAT for this setup. And to be fair, Edward and Alora absolutely have chemistry. The tension, possessiveness, and obsessive energy are definitely there, and Edward in particular had moments where I could see glimpses of the addictive alpha heroes TL Swan usually nails so well.
But overall, this story felt really disjointed for me. The writing style came across choppy at times, and the pacing constantly pulled me out of the story. There are multiple time jumps, random POV shifts, and several plot threads that feel introduced and then forgotten about completely. Certain emotional moments and character motivations felt inconsistent from chapter to chapter, and I kept struggling to connect to the relationship beyond the physical attraction. We are told repeatedly that these two cannot stay away from each other, but I never fully bought into the emotional depth behind it. Their connection starts almost entirely physical, and while the obsession and longing are intense, the romance itself felt underdeveloped. There’s a LOT of push and pull, jealousy, possessiveness, and “you can’t have her but neither can anyone else” energy. Sometimes it worked for me, sometimes it just felt exhausting.
I also wish the story had felt more cohesive tonally. It jumps between dark romance, billionaire romance, second chance romance, romantic suspense, mafia-adjacent danger, and heavy kink elements without always blending those pieces smoothly together. There were moments where it genuinely felt like several different books fighting for space in one story. LIke a book TRYING to be trendy and just doing too much. It was like she wasn't cute sure what the experience really was meant to be.
That said, I do think there are elements readers will enjoy. Edward is definitely worth the read. He’s controlling, damaged, obsessive, emotionally unavailable, and fully unhinged in love, which made him compelling even when the story itself lost me a bit. I also appreciated some of the underlying themes surrounding self-worth, healing, therapy, and learning how to accept love. And I can’t lie...that cliffhanger absolutely got me. Even though I had issues with this one, I’m still curious enough to want to know what happens next.
Overall, this one had an intriguing concept and flashes of the emotional intensity I usually love from TL Swan, but the execution just felt too messy (or even first draft-y) and uneven for me to fully connect with. I wanted more depth, more cohesion, and stronger emotional development between the characters. But I'll probably still check out the next one. (even though I did NOT know this wasn't a standalone going into it)
What to Expect
Second Chance
Billionaire
Anonymous One Night Stand
Kink Resort Setting
Possessive/Jealous Alpha Hero
Grumpy x Sunshine Vibes
Morally Gray Hero
Romantic Suspense
Cliffhanger Ending
But overall, this story felt really disjointed for me. The writing style came across choppy at times, and the pacing constantly pulled me out of the story. There are multiple time jumps, random POV shifts, and several plot threads that feel introduced and then forgotten about completely. Certain emotional moments and character motivations felt inconsistent from chapter to chapter, and I kept struggling to connect to the relationship beyond the physical attraction. We are told repeatedly that these two cannot stay away from each other, but I never fully bought into the emotional depth behind it. Their connection starts almost entirely physical, and while the obsession and longing are intense, the romance itself felt underdeveloped. There’s a LOT of push and pull, jealousy, possessiveness, and “you can’t have her but neither can anyone else” energy. Sometimes it worked for me, sometimes it just felt exhausting.
I also wish the story had felt more cohesive tonally. It jumps between dark romance, billionaire romance, second chance romance, romantic suspense, mafia-adjacent danger, and heavy kink elements without always blending those pieces smoothly together. There were moments where it genuinely felt like several different books fighting for space in one story. LIke a book TRYING to be trendy and just doing too much. It was like she wasn't cute sure what the experience really was meant to be.
That said, I do think there are elements readers will enjoy. Edward is definitely worth the read. He’s controlling, damaged, obsessive, emotionally unavailable, and fully unhinged in love, which made him compelling even when the story itself lost me a bit. I also appreciated some of the underlying themes surrounding self-worth, healing, therapy, and learning how to accept love. And I can’t lie...that cliffhanger absolutely got me. Even though I had issues with this one, I’m still curious enough to want to know what happens next.
Overall, this one had an intriguing concept and flashes of the emotional intensity I usually love from TL Swan, but the execution just felt too messy (or even first draft-y) and uneven for me to fully connect with. I wanted more depth, more cohesion, and stronger emotional development between the characters. But I'll probably still check out the next one. (even though I did NOT know this wasn't a standalone going into it)
What to Expect
Second Chance
Billionaire
Anonymous One Night Stand
Kink Resort Setting
Possessive/Jealous Alpha Hero
Grumpy x Sunshine Vibes
Morally Gray Hero
Romantic Suspense
Cliffhanger Ending
May 7, 2026
This follows Alora and Edward. Alora is on a mission to complete her best friend’s bucket list, with item number nine proving to be a bit of a challenge. That’s when she decides to spend a weekend in the Swiss Alps at an exclusive resort called The Establishment, where guests spend a night with a stranger matched to their desires. There, she meets Edward a handsome, controlling, and intimidating man who leaves quite the impression. The catch is they don’t share personal and private details to remain namless. But years later, Alora’s world looks very different. Now living in Nice, Italy, and running her own business, she never expected to cross paths again with the man who turned her romance life upside down. What could possibly go wrong?
I really enjoyed this TL Swan book, and I highly recommend picking up the audiobook. Shane and Victoria were the perfect casting choices for Edward and Alora and did a brilliant job bringing the story to life.
Jumping into the storyline, this is a character driven romance with a suspenseful plot that really grips you once things begin to escalate. I was also surprised in the best way by how many perspectives we got throughout the book. Not just the main characters, but also side characters like Thomas and even the bodyguards at times. It added so much depth and made it feel more immersive.
Starting with Alora, I loved how beautiful her soul is. She brings warmth and light into every room she walks into, and I really enjoyed the contrast between her and Edward that made it feel like opposites attract. Watching her life changed and evolve as she moved to Italy to open her own business was such a satisfying part of the story.
Edward, on the other hand, is all power and control. He’s very set in his ways due to his status, upbringing, and the loss of a parent. As a billionaire and business mogul, he would have som enemies. The suspenseful plot, paired with the angsty romance, delicious sprinkle of spice, and that cliffhanger ending, completely pulled me in.
The only thing I’ll mention is that I did struggle with Edward at times. I could understand where some of his behaviour stemmed from, but certain moments definitely gave off red-flag energy. That said, when he showed up and did beautiful things for her made me melt.
I’m definitely looking forward to picking up the next book in the series to see what happens next!
Genre/Type: Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC and Audiobook
Pages: 622
Audiobook Length: 17hrs 25mins
Narrators: Shane East and Victoria Connolly - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spicy Chapters: 2, 3, 4, 21, 22, 25, 28 and 31.
POV: First Person / Multiple POV’s
Series or Standalone: Book One in The Kings OF Riviera Series
Tropes or Themes: Billionaire, Second Chance, Opposites Attract, Stalking, Suspenseful, Possessive MMC, Therapy, Secrets, Kidnapping, Cliffhanger, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Eyes On Me, Get On Your Knees, Begging, Oral Play, Impact Play, Dom/Sub, Rough Play, Backdoor Play, Water Scene (Hot Tub), Shower Scene and Kitchen Scene.
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I really enjoyed this TL Swan book, and I highly recommend picking up the audiobook. Shane and Victoria were the perfect casting choices for Edward and Alora and did a brilliant job bringing the story to life.
Jumping into the storyline, this is a character driven romance with a suspenseful plot that really grips you once things begin to escalate. I was also surprised in the best way by how many perspectives we got throughout the book. Not just the main characters, but also side characters like Thomas and even the bodyguards at times. It added so much depth and made it feel more immersive.
Starting with Alora, I loved how beautiful her soul is. She brings warmth and light into every room she walks into, and I really enjoyed the contrast between her and Edward that made it feel like opposites attract. Watching her life changed and evolve as she moved to Italy to open her own business was such a satisfying part of the story.
Edward, on the other hand, is all power and control. He’s very set in his ways due to his status, upbringing, and the loss of a parent. As a billionaire and business mogul, he would have som enemies. The suspenseful plot, paired with the angsty romance, delicious sprinkle of spice, and that cliffhanger ending, completely pulled me in.
The only thing I’ll mention is that I did struggle with Edward at times. I could understand where some of his behaviour stemmed from, but certain moments definitely gave off red-flag energy. That said, when he showed up and did beautiful things for her made me melt.
I’m definitely looking forward to picking up the next book in the series to see what happens next!
Genre/Type: Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC and Audiobook
Pages: 622
Audiobook Length: 17hrs 25mins
Narrators: Shane East and Victoria Connolly - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Spicy Chapters: 2, 3, 4, 21, 22, 25, 28 and 31.
POV: First Person / Multiple POV’s
Series or Standalone: Book One in The Kings OF Riviera Series
Tropes or Themes: Billionaire, Second Chance, Opposites Attract, Stalking, Suspenseful, Possessive MMC, Therapy, Secrets, Kidnapping, Cliffhanger, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Eyes On Me, Get On Your Knees, Begging, Oral Play, Impact Play, Dom/Sub, Rough Play, Backdoor Play, Water Scene (Hot Tub), Shower Scene and Kitchen Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Margins | Pagebound | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
May 12, 2026
This book gave me severe whiplash. It literally pained me. I'm being generous giving it 2 stars.
**SPOILERS BELOW**
First off, I did not realize this was going to end on a cliffhanger, and this was a duet??!! Nowhere in the synopsis did it state that there was another book after this. Maybe I'm being dramatic, but I did not like that it wasn't mentioned at all...kinda rude, but whatever.
This book was a whole bunch of nonsense. So in the beginning, they meet at an anonymous kink retreat thing. No names are shared, and you're paired with someone with similar kinks for one night, and you're supposed to go your separate ways. The first 10% of the book is ALL SMUT, and somehow they fall in love within those few days...WILD.
Okay, and then they find each other three years later, and we get more about their backgrounds. The MMC, Edward, is a billionaire (bc ofc he is) and owns the world's largest casino empire, and our FMC, Alora, owns an antique shop that she inherited from her uncle. They meet for the first time since their kink/sex retreat thing at a charity gala. Edward claims that Alora is the one for him, and he's been looking for her for the past 3 years. Mind you, he's a billionaire, and he couldn't find her?!! TRY HARDER. Even worse, she runs a store 30 minutes away from him. The paparazzi were able to find her in hours, and he couldn't find her in 3 YEARS...
I was reading through some comments, and I understand why some people may like this, but for me, I personally disliked it. I was getting whiplash because there were so many unnecessary POVs randomly placed throughout this book. Like, I didn't need all those people's inner thoughts.
The plot was ALL OVER THE PLACE, and the characters were so unlikable. I am so sorry, but I still hate Edward. I hated him from page one, and I still hate him 500 pages later. In the beginning, he just assumed she was submissive. FCK THE FCK OFF. It was actually so disgusting. Then he continuously treats her like trash. GIRL GET TF UP. I am not a fan of him.
Anyways, I wasted my time and will not be reading book 2.
**SPOILERS BELOW**
First off, I did not realize this was going to end on a cliffhanger, and this was a duet??!! Nowhere in the synopsis did it state that there was another book after this. Maybe I'm being dramatic, but I did not like that it wasn't mentioned at all...kinda rude, but whatever.
This book was a whole bunch of nonsense. So in the beginning, they meet at an anonymous kink retreat thing. No names are shared, and you're paired with someone with similar kinks for one night, and you're supposed to go your separate ways. The first 10% of the book is ALL SMUT, and somehow they fall in love within those few days...WILD.
Okay, and then they find each other three years later, and we get more about their backgrounds. The MMC, Edward, is a billionaire (bc ofc he is) and owns the world's largest casino empire, and our FMC, Alora, owns an antique shop that she inherited from her uncle. They meet for the first time since their kink/sex retreat thing at a charity gala. Edward claims that Alora is the one for him, and he's been looking for her for the past 3 years. Mind you, he's a billionaire, and he couldn't find her?!! TRY HARDER. Even worse, she runs a store 30 minutes away from him. The paparazzi were able to find her in hours, and he couldn't find her in 3 YEARS...
I was reading through some comments, and I understand why some people may like this, but for me, I personally disliked it. I was getting whiplash because there were so many unnecessary POVs randomly placed throughout this book. Like, I didn't need all those people's inner thoughts.
The plot was ALL OVER THE PLACE, and the characters were so unlikable. I am so sorry, but I still hate Edward. I hated him from page one, and I still hate him 500 pages later. In the beginning, he just assumed she was submissive. FCK THE FCK OFF. It was actually so disgusting. Then he continuously treats her like trash. GIRL GET TF UP. I am not a fan of him.
Anyways, I wasted my time and will not be reading book 2.
May 6, 2026
I tried to like this book. The Miles series is my all time favorite book series. This story dragged and was just obnoxious. They both break up with long term partners for each other and then acted like they didn’t want each other. It was a middle school romance with billionaire money and influence. Thomas Stone was a great addition to the story, but I don’t see the appeal of Edward. He’s a narcissistic red flag and nothing about him is appealing. He keeps telling Alora to move on but then won’t let her move on. Ugh! By the 55% mark I was hoping “darkness” would just take Edward out and be done with it already. They finally get together and then it’s more of a high school relationship. He’s over the top and all the exes are sabotaging them. How old are these people suppose to be again? He goes from pushing her away to falling deeply in love in three seconds. Anyways the book ends in a cliffhanger, but I don’t think I can continue with this series. Edward’s friends (the rest of the “Kings of the Riviera”) were just as annoying and self centered as he was. Besides being good looking and rich these people have absolutely nothing going for them. Unlike the Miles brothers who were written with actual personalities. I’ll check back in when the Valentino book finally gets released.
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