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Cruel Command #5
Cruel Betrayal
I should’ve stayed away from the underground ring.
I should’ve listened when everyone told me Ezra Hale is a monster carved from violence and vengeance.
But the first time I watched him fight—
the crack of bone, the blood on his knuckles, the look in his eyes when he found me in the crowd—
I knew I was already too far gone.
Ezra is dangerous.
Unhinged.
Capable of snapping a man’s neck without hesitation… and he’s told me exactly what he could do to me if he ever lost control.
And yet I keep running toward him.
Even when my family demands I cut him out.
Even when his enemies circle closer every day.
Even when I learn the truth—
Ezra is being pushed into fights designed to kill him, and if he refuses… they’ll use me to force his hand.
Soon I’ll have to
my blood family…
or the violent, broken boy who somehow stole my heart.
Either way, I lose something.
But losing Ezra?
That might destroy me completely.
I should’ve listened when everyone told me Ezra Hale is a monster carved from violence and vengeance.
But the first time I watched him fight—
the crack of bone, the blood on his knuckles, the look in his eyes when he found me in the crowd—
I knew I was already too far gone.
Ezra is dangerous.
Unhinged.
Capable of snapping a man’s neck without hesitation… and he’s told me exactly what he could do to me if he ever lost control.
And yet I keep running toward him.
Even when my family demands I cut him out.
Even when his enemies circle closer every day.
Even when I learn the truth—
Ezra is being pushed into fights designed to kill him, and if he refuses… they’ll use me to force his hand.
Soon I’ll have to
my blood family…
or the violent, broken boy who somehow stole my heart.
Either way, I lose something.
But losing Ezra?
That might destroy me completely.
- GenresEnemies To Lovers
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2025
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January 7, 2026
Cruel Betrayal is the fifth book in the Cruel Command Series. A full-length standalone novel with no cheating and ends on a happily-ever-after. The story is interconnected with individuals from the previous books making appearance and contributing to the story. A story of a dangerous underground fighter and a woman drawn to his violence and must choose between family loyalty and forbidden love in this dark spicy mafia romance. This is Ezra and Jade story which is told from a dual point of view. An unputdownable and absorbing addictive read. A fast paced, dark, and thrilling story. Immerse yourself in this enticing erotic scenes filled with heat, angst, anger, tension, emotions, drama, threats and secrecy. Dangerous. Twisted. Dirty. Sinful. A beautifully written story with complex individuals and a twisty storyline that captures the reader attention from the start and keeps you hooked and on the edge of your seat until the end.
A story of betrayals, manipulation, secrets, consensual intense rough sex, dominance, dirty talking, submission, revelations, power and control, obsession, possessiveness, fear, guilt, power play, rivalry, revenge, enemies-to-lovers, hate-to-love, darkness, madness, mob war, kidnapping, captivity, coercion, family issues, organize crime, stalker, lies, witty banter, deception, revenge, retaliation, forced proximity, forbidden relationship, twists and turns, mystery, suspense, danger, surprises, violence, passion, murder, death, bloodshed, steam, torture, acceptance, spice galore, backstabbing, double-cross, treachery, beatings and love and more.
Two people from rival family's and enemies who are on the brink of a bloody war fell in love and shouldn't be together. Erza Hale is the underground fighter who's obsessed with a family member of one of his cousin Noah enemy. Mafia princess Jade Lynde who's a college student going to school in pursuant of a business degree that she didn't want. All her life she has lived in a glided cage shielded by guards around the clock. Jade is tired of being suffocated by her mafia family and decided to move away and get her own place in order to gain some independence away from her mafia family. From the moment laid eyes on Ezra fighting in the underground it was it for her.
Ezra is a monstrous, unhinged, sociopathic, dangerous and twisted man. He wanted Jade and had been watching and stalking her. Jade knows that something was watching her but doesn't know who. When Ezra gets tired of watching from the shadows he came out and kidnapped her. She couldn't believe that her captor was man who she had been watching fighting in the ring. Ezra initially had a plan when he kidnapped her to one up the Rinaldo family in their impeding war but everything changes the more time that they spend together. They chemistry was electrifying and magnetic. She should run from him but she keeps running towards him. Even when her family demands that she cut him off. Even when his enemies circle closer every day. Even when she learnt the truth of what's really going on.
He also realized that his cousin Noah did not mean him good regardless of him being his prize fighter and trying to earn his place in the family. When Ezra has an important fight to perform but Jade gave him an ultimatum between being with her or doing the fight. What will he choose? Ezra is being pushed into fights designed to kill him, and if he refuses they'll use Jade against him to force his hands. Soon she'll have to choose, her blood family or the violent broken boy who somehow stole her heart. Either way, she will lose something. But loosing Ezra is not an option because it will destroy her. They must choose and their option could be determential for both of them.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
A story of betrayals, manipulation, secrets, consensual intense rough sex, dominance, dirty talking, submission, revelations, power and control, obsession, possessiveness, fear, guilt, power play, rivalry, revenge, enemies-to-lovers, hate-to-love, darkness, madness, mob war, kidnapping, captivity, coercion, family issues, organize crime, stalker, lies, witty banter, deception, revenge, retaliation, forced proximity, forbidden relationship, twists and turns, mystery, suspense, danger, surprises, violence, passion, murder, death, bloodshed, steam, torture, acceptance, spice galore, backstabbing, double-cross, treachery, beatings and love and more.
Two people from rival family's and enemies who are on the brink of a bloody war fell in love and shouldn't be together. Erza Hale is the underground fighter who's obsessed with a family member of one of his cousin Noah enemy. Mafia princess Jade Lynde who's a college student going to school in pursuant of a business degree that she didn't want. All her life she has lived in a glided cage shielded by guards around the clock. Jade is tired of being suffocated by her mafia family and decided to move away and get her own place in order to gain some independence away from her mafia family. From the moment laid eyes on Ezra fighting in the underground it was it for her.
Ezra is a monstrous, unhinged, sociopathic, dangerous and twisted man. He wanted Jade and had been watching and stalking her. Jade knows that something was watching her but doesn't know who. When Ezra gets tired of watching from the shadows he came out and kidnapped her. She couldn't believe that her captor was man who she had been watching fighting in the ring. Ezra initially had a plan when he kidnapped her to one up the Rinaldo family in their impeding war but everything changes the more time that they spend together. They chemistry was electrifying and magnetic. She should run from him but she keeps running towards him. Even when her family demands that she cut him off. Even when his enemies circle closer every day. Even when she learnt the truth of what's really going on.
He also realized that his cousin Noah did not mean him good regardless of him being his prize fighter and trying to earn his place in the family. When Ezra has an important fight to perform but Jade gave him an ultimatum between being with her or doing the fight. What will he choose? Ezra is being pushed into fights designed to kill him, and if he refuses they'll use Jade against him to force his hands. Soon she'll have to choose, her blood family or the violent broken boy who somehow stole her heart. Either way, she will lose something. But loosing Ezra is not an option because it will destroy her. They must choose and their option could be determential for both of them.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2025
I've enjoyed this series of books. They are action-packed from the start. There is tension between the two main characters, who are from families at war with each other. Each member of the family is trying to gain the upper hand. The books are steamy from the get-go, and I enjoy that the MFC is strong and will go toe-to-toe with the MMC if need be.
Ezra, a cousin of Noah Rinaldo, earns Noah big money off the fights he wins. He is loyal to him and wants revenge on the Lyndes for taking away his cousins Zoe and Gia. Ezra is obsessed with one of the twins, Jade. He has watched her for months, knows her better than she knows herself, and he is going to have her, as payback for taking away the family he was close to.
Jade loves having her own space away from the family, that is, until she knows her stalker is getting into her home somehow. But she keeps this to herself; otherwise, she would be back in the gilded cage, her family home. She loves chatting with a person she met online about books, which has become more personal over time. Should she take the next step and meet up with him?
Ezra may have fooled himself that his obsession with Jade was under control, that he would do Noah's bidding when it came to her, but that doesn't hold sway for very long. She is his, so he has to come up with a plan to keep Noah at bay so he doesn't have to kill her, like Noah has taken everything else he loves away from him.
Jade shouldn't have feelings for her captor; she should have a definitive line between them, but Ezra pulls those feelings out of her. Can she prove to her family that she is best left where she is, as she can get information about Noah from Ezra to help in their war?
They say, 'you can't choose family', and that is true for Ezra. All the Noah has put him through in his life, also knowing he could be the next to feel his wrath and lose his life, so choices have to be made on the future he wants and who he wants it with.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ezra, a cousin of Noah Rinaldo, earns Noah big money off the fights he wins. He is loyal to him and wants revenge on the Lyndes for taking away his cousins Zoe and Gia. Ezra is obsessed with one of the twins, Jade. He has watched her for months, knows her better than she knows herself, and he is going to have her, as payback for taking away the family he was close to.
Jade loves having her own space away from the family, that is, until she knows her stalker is getting into her home somehow. But she keeps this to herself; otherwise, she would be back in the gilded cage, her family home. She loves chatting with a person she met online about books, which has become more personal over time. Should she take the next step and meet up with him?
Ezra may have fooled himself that his obsession with Jade was under control, that he would do Noah's bidding when it came to her, but that doesn't hold sway for very long. She is his, so he has to come up with a plan to keep Noah at bay so he doesn't have to kill her, like Noah has taken everything else he loves away from him.
Jade shouldn't have feelings for her captor; she should have a definitive line between them, but Ezra pulls those feelings out of her. Can she prove to her family that she is best left where she is, as she can get information about Noah from Ezra to help in their war?
They say, 'you can't choose family', and that is true for Ezra. All the Noah has put him through in his life, also knowing he could be the next to feel his wrath and lose his life, so choices have to be made on the future he wants and who he wants it with.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2025
Cruel Betrayal delivers a gripping and emotionally charged continuation of the Cruel Command series, bringing Jade’s story to the forefront with intensity, heart, and high-stakes danger. Now stepping out of the confines of her Mafia family compound, Jade is determined to forge her own path balancing business school, newfound independence, and the secret connection she’s built with a mysterious online stranger. But her fresh start quickly twists into something darker when she senses someone watching her.
Ezra Hale is a force of nature, dangerous, possessive, and unapologetically driven. He knows what he wants, and what he wants is Jade. His world is brutal and unforgiving, and drawing Jade into it means confronting enemies, secrets, and the violent underground fights that threaten to consume him. Though Jade fears the ruthless edges of Ezra’s life, each push from him forces her to confront parts of herself she’s long kept hidden. Their chemistry is fierce, their clashes electric, and their growing familiarity creates moments of unexpected peace and vulnerability amid the chaos.
What truly anchors this story is the tension between family loyalty and forbidden desire. Both Jade and Ezra walk a razor’s edge, never fully sure who they can trust or what their choices will cost. Jade’s family remains her grounding force, supporting her through the emotional upheaval of loving a man shaped by pain and brutality. And as Ezra witnesses the strength of Jade’s family bonds, it becomes the catalyst he never expected one that begins to mend his fractured heart.
Book 5 is a powerful blend of danger, passion, and emotional depth that keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end. Kira Cole once again delivers a dark romance filled with grit, vulnerability, and characters who refuse to break even when the world is set against them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ezra Hale is a force of nature, dangerous, possessive, and unapologetically driven. He knows what he wants, and what he wants is Jade. His world is brutal and unforgiving, and drawing Jade into it means confronting enemies, secrets, and the violent underground fights that threaten to consume him. Though Jade fears the ruthless edges of Ezra’s life, each push from him forces her to confront parts of herself she’s long kept hidden. Their chemistry is fierce, their clashes electric, and their growing familiarity creates moments of unexpected peace and vulnerability amid the chaos.
What truly anchors this story is the tension between family loyalty and forbidden desire. Both Jade and Ezra walk a razor’s edge, never fully sure who they can trust or what their choices will cost. Jade’s family remains her grounding force, supporting her through the emotional upheaval of loving a man shaped by pain and brutality. And as Ezra witnesses the strength of Jade’s family bonds, it becomes the catalyst he never expected one that begins to mend his fractured heart.
Book 5 is a powerful blend of danger, passion, and emotional depth that keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end. Kira Cole once again delivers a dark romance filled with grit, vulnerability, and characters who refuse to break even when the world is set against them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2025
She was stolen to be protected… and ruined.
Two ruthless mafia families stand on the brink of war, and in the shadows between them, obsession takes root.
Ezra lives for violence—underground fights, blood, and loyalty to his cousin’s crime family. But his true fixation isn’t found in the ring. It’s Jade. For months, he’s watched her from afar—online through a chat room and in person from the edges of her tightly controlled life. Silent. Patient. Possessive. When Ezra decides it’s time to stop lurking and start claiming, he doesn’t hesitate to kidnap her and drag his obsession into the light.
Jade is trapped long before she’s taken. Pushed toward a business degree she doesn’t want, smothered by guards assigned by her brother, and ignored as the “less important” sibling, she dreams of becoming a chef—knowing it will never be allowed. Already suffocating under expectations and fear of the looming war, she takes one reckless chance to meet her online confidant… and wakes up drugged, bound, and hidden away in a remote cabin.
What follows is a twisted, tension-soaked psychological dance. Ezra is unhinged yet disturbingly attentive, determined to give Jade everything she’s ever wanted—whether she asks for it or not. Jade must decide if survival means resistance… or leaning into the dangerous comfort offered by the very man who stole her freedom.
Creeping obsession, morally gray devotion, and high-stakes mafia danger collide in a dark romance where betrayal is inevitable—and desire may be even more dangerous.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Two ruthless mafia families stand on the brink of war, and in the shadows between them, obsession takes root.
Ezra lives for violence—underground fights, blood, and loyalty to his cousin’s crime family. But his true fixation isn’t found in the ring. It’s Jade. For months, he’s watched her from afar—online through a chat room and in person from the edges of her tightly controlled life. Silent. Patient. Possessive. When Ezra decides it’s time to stop lurking and start claiming, he doesn’t hesitate to kidnap her and drag his obsession into the light.
Jade is trapped long before she’s taken. Pushed toward a business degree she doesn’t want, smothered by guards assigned by her brother, and ignored as the “less important” sibling, she dreams of becoming a chef—knowing it will never be allowed. Already suffocating under expectations and fear of the looming war, she takes one reckless chance to meet her online confidant… and wakes up drugged, bound, and hidden away in a remote cabin.
What follows is a twisted, tension-soaked psychological dance. Ezra is unhinged yet disturbingly attentive, determined to give Jade everything she’s ever wanted—whether she asks for it or not. Jade must decide if survival means resistance… or leaning into the dangerous comfort offered by the very man who stole her freedom.
Creeping obsession, morally gray devotion, and high-stakes mafia danger collide in a dark romance where betrayal is inevitable—and desire may be even more dangerous.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2025
Arc Review
4.5 ⭐️ please
Firstly, let me start with you needing to read the series. In order to understand the characters, some homework needs to be done. Can read as standalone but don’t recommend.
The Lynde Crime Family & The Rinaldo’s are at war. A war between the families for a while.
Ezra Reyes cousin to Noah Rinaldo, also his stud of a pawn fighter.
* Obsessor beyond stalker
* good soldier?
* lethal
Jade Lynde - target.
There is a risk of loving someone. Everybody needs someone they can fall back upon. Will Ezra ever get the chance to see this? Playing both sides, can one win? Is loyalty to far out of the realm?
This is Bk #5 but it is not over. Onto #6. The war is not over but Ezra & Jade have a future to look forward to. Won’t say a cliffhanger ending but definitely opening to Bk #6.
Cruelty can have many meanings
- being lost
- being offensive
- being harmful
- being intellectual
- being physical
It was all here, but why? Was this Ezra’s understanding in life? Did he know a different? A whirlwind read. Greedy, naughty, highly demanding, sexual - wonderful and yes, a page turner.
Original review on Booksprout. Also in Amazon.
* additional note: stalking someone can be viewed in 2 ways - harmful obsession or here lost obsession. Ezra has lost a lot in his youth. Under orders from his cousin Noah, Cruel expectations were expected. Not toeing the line has/had consequences. May be viewed as a dark read for some.
4.5 ⭐️ please
Firstly, let me start with you needing to read the series. In order to understand the characters, some homework needs to be done. Can read as standalone but don’t recommend.
The Lynde Crime Family & The Rinaldo’s are at war. A war between the families for a while.
Ezra Reyes cousin to Noah Rinaldo, also his stud of a pawn fighter.
* Obsessor beyond stalker
* good soldier?
* lethal
Jade Lynde - target.
There is a risk of loving someone. Everybody needs someone they can fall back upon. Will Ezra ever get the chance to see this? Playing both sides, can one win? Is loyalty to far out of the realm?
This is Bk #5 but it is not over. Onto #6. The war is not over but Ezra & Jade have a future to look forward to. Won’t say a cliffhanger ending but definitely opening to Bk #6.
Cruelty can have many meanings
- being lost
- being offensive
- being harmful
- being intellectual
- being physical
It was all here, but why? Was this Ezra’s understanding in life? Did he know a different? A whirlwind read. Greedy, naughty, highly demanding, sexual - wonderful and yes, a page turner.
Original review on Booksprout. Also in Amazon.
* additional note: stalking someone can be viewed in 2 ways - harmful obsession or here lost obsession. Ezra has lost a lot in his youth. Under orders from his cousin Noah, Cruel expectations were expected. Not toeing the line has/had consequences. May be viewed as a dark read for some.
December 15, 2025
This story pulls you in fast with an addictive premise: Ezra and Jade begin as anonymous online book lovers, bonding over shared passions that quickly blur into something intimate and explicit. What starts as a digital romance spirals into something far darker when Jade realizes her online boyfriend is also her stalker—and tied to her family’s enemies.
This book took me on a wild ride. The relationship is messy, dangerous, and constantly shifting, with twists that made me pause more than once. I did experience a bit of whiplash from the gaps in the storytelling, which kept this from being a five-star read for me. That said, the intrigue never let go, and I needed to see how it all unraveled.
The spice absolutely delivers—intense, unapologetic, and well-placed—and the underlying danger adds a sharp edge to every interaction. Ezra is unhinged, violent, and deeply broken, yet impossible to ignore, while Jade’s pull toward him feels both reckless and inevitable.
Despite its uneven moments, this book kept me hooked, and I ultimately enjoyed the experience. Kira Cole remains a preferred author for me, especially when it comes to dark, twisted romance that isn’t afraid to cross lines.
If you enjoy stalker dynamics, morally gray characters, and high-heat romance with a constant sense of threat, this one is worth the read.
I received a free ARC of this book. This review is only my opinion.
This book took me on a wild ride. The relationship is messy, dangerous, and constantly shifting, with twists that made me pause more than once. I did experience a bit of whiplash from the gaps in the storytelling, which kept this from being a five-star read for me. That said, the intrigue never let go, and I needed to see how it all unraveled.
The spice absolutely delivers—intense, unapologetic, and well-placed—and the underlying danger adds a sharp edge to every interaction. Ezra is unhinged, violent, and deeply broken, yet impossible to ignore, while Jade’s pull toward him feels both reckless and inevitable.
Despite its uneven moments, this book kept me hooked, and I ultimately enjoyed the experience. Kira Cole remains a preferred author for me, especially when it comes to dark, twisted romance that isn’t afraid to cross lines.
If you enjoy stalker dynamics, morally gray characters, and high-heat romance with a constant sense of threat, this one is worth the read.
I received a free ARC of this book. This review is only my opinion.
December 5, 2025
Another amazing dark romance by Kira Cole!
I love this series! It’s so good and seriously straight jacket crazy but amazing!
Jade Lynde is trying to find her place in the world away from her mafia family. She moved out of the family compound into her own place but is going to business school to help the family even though she dreams of becoming a chef. She does everything she can to make herself small in this messed world she was born into. But her stalker sees her for who she really is and is coming for her. And soon.
Ezra Reyes is part of the Rinaldos family and is their prize fighter. He has had a hard life proving himself to earn his spot. However his cousin is determined to keep him under his thumb and at his beck and call.
Ezra is not who I thought he was. This was probably the craziest character I’ve ever experienced apart from the book Dual. Although he doesn’t have dual personalities he acts like two different people online versus in person.
This is a dark romance so pay attention to the trigger warnings.
Murder
Kidnapping
Beatings
Threats
Stalking
If you’ve never experienced a Kira Cole book I would start with book 1 of this series and let me know what you think!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love this series! It’s so good and seriously straight jacket crazy but amazing!
Jade Lynde is trying to find her place in the world away from her mafia family. She moved out of the family compound into her own place but is going to business school to help the family even though she dreams of becoming a chef. She does everything she can to make herself small in this messed world she was born into. But her stalker sees her for who she really is and is coming for her. And soon.
Ezra Reyes is part of the Rinaldos family and is their prize fighter. He has had a hard life proving himself to earn his spot. However his cousin is determined to keep him under his thumb and at his beck and call.
Ezra is not who I thought he was. This was probably the craziest character I’ve ever experienced apart from the book Dual. Although he doesn’t have dual personalities he acts like two different people online versus in person.
This is a dark romance so pay attention to the trigger warnings.
Murder
Kidnapping
Beatings
Threats
Stalking
If you’ve never experienced a Kira Cole book I would start with book 1 of this series and let me know what you think!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2025
Jade has moved away from the family home and is living in her own apartment and studying business management. She has a stalker who soon makes themself known when Ezra kidnaps her. Ezra is beholden to Noel and has to keep fighting and winning to stay safe and alive. When Noel finds out Ezra has a weakness in the form of Jade, she is in danger herself. Jade is no shrinking violet, and she stands up for what she believes in and for her man when things become serious between them. Will Ezra be able to do what Jade wants him to do to keep safe, or will he go against her wishes and end their relationship?
I recieved an ARC from Booksprout for a voluntary, honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love a dark romance with a strong FMC and MMC with plenty of angst in their relationship, then you will love this read. Kira keeps you turning the pages with all the twists and turns that you don't see coming. This book may not be for everyone; therefore, please read the author's trigger warnings before reading or purchasing.
I recieved an ARC from Booksprout for a voluntary, honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love a dark romance with a strong FMC and MMC with plenty of angst in their relationship, then you will love this read. Kira keeps you turning the pages with all the twists and turns that you don't see coming. This book may not be for everyone; therefore, please read the author's trigger warnings before reading or purchasing.
December 12, 2025
This is the 5th story in the Cruel Command Series where Jade finally moves out of her Mafia family compound looking to find her own way while communicating with a stranger online. Her days are busy attending business school to help her family later and finds herself being stalked. Ezra is a man that knows what he wants, Jade, at all cost and does what is necessary to get her into his world. Being enemies scares Jade as every time Ezra pushes her it’s something she’d never do for herself. Jade continues fighting Ezra never giving up until their familiarity brings a sense of peace, safety and an undeniable attraction. The danger of their families have them both on edge never knowing who to trust and the cost of their loyalty takes on their fragile relationship. Jades family is the driving force that keeps her happy through the ups and downs with Ezra and once he sees what family really means does his heart start to slowly heal! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2025
Another fantastic dark romance by Kira Cole, this is book 5 in the Cruel Command series.
Jade is trying to find some independence so she moved into her own apartment and is studying business management, even though her true wish is to become a chef! Jade is kidnapped by Ezra, he is an underground fighter who holds some loyalty to his cousin, Noel, and has to keep fighting and winning to stay safe and alive. XWhen Noel finds out Ezra has a weakness and this not only gives Noel another lever to manipulate Ezra it puts Jade in danger as well. However, Jade is strong and stands up for what she believes in and will stand up for her man when things become serious between them.
The chemistry between Jade and Ezra right from the beginning was explosive and just continued to grow!
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book via BookSprout and I am writing this review voluntarily
Jade is trying to find some independence so she moved into her own apartment and is studying business management, even though her true wish is to become a chef! Jade is kidnapped by Ezra, he is an underground fighter who holds some loyalty to his cousin, Noel, and has to keep fighting and winning to stay safe and alive. XWhen Noel finds out Ezra has a weakness and this not only gives Noel another lever to manipulate Ezra it puts Jade in danger as well. However, Jade is strong and stands up for what she believes in and will stand up for her man when things become serious between them.
The chemistry between Jade and Ezra right from the beginning was explosive and just continued to grow!
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book via BookSprout and I am writing this review voluntarily
December 15, 2025
This is the second book that I've read from this author. I like her writing style and her character development. I feel like I really know the characters and am invested in their lives. A mafia princess who is the black sheep of her family (and trying her best to have freedom from said family) gets kidnapped by her online date. He happens to be part of a rival mafia family. The plan was just to stalk and kidnap her to help his family with the war but all of that changed when he fell in love with her. She only wants to prove her worth to her family, however, she catches herself falling for her captor and craving his touch. There are barriers that they both need to cross and decide where their true allegiances lie. I rated this an overall 4. It had some dark themes, good plot, great characters, and the spice was 👌.
December 15, 2025
Cruel Betrayal is the fifth story in the Cruel Command series.
Jade wants to get some space between herself and her family who are in the mafia. She has dreams of being a chef but instead is taking business courses to help her family. She tries to hide herself away but she has a stalker. Ezra is a fighter who has to prove himself. He wants Jade and doesn't care what he has to do to get her. Jade and Ezra are enemies. He was supposed to kidnap her for his family. Ezra kidnaps her but then has feelings for her. Jade begins to fall for Ezra.
Jade and Ezra's story is full of suspense and emotions since they come from rival families. I loved how determined Ezra was to have her. Their chemistry was so good. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jade wants to get some space between herself and her family who are in the mafia. She has dreams of being a chef but instead is taking business courses to help her family. She tries to hide herself away but she has a stalker. Ezra is a fighter who has to prove himself. He wants Jade and doesn't care what he has to do to get her. Jade and Ezra are enemies. He was supposed to kidnap her for his family. Ezra kidnaps her but then has feelings for her. Jade begins to fall for Ezra.
Jade and Ezra's story is full of suspense and emotions since they come from rival families. I loved how determined Ezra was to have her. Their chemistry was so good. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2025
Completely Obsessed!
Okay, maybe I’m not quite as obsessed as Ezra is with Jade, but wow does he take obsession to a whole new level and somehow in the best, most addictive way possible. The whole “kidnapped and then forced to follow your dreams” setup should not work, yet it absolutely does. Their chemistry is chaotic, intense, and so much fun to watch unfold.
The way they fall for each other had me grinning, kicking my feet, and occasionally questioning my sanity. And that final reaction scene, with Ezra fighting and unraveling, pulled at every single heartstring. I wanted to hug him and beat him up at the same time.
I’m fully hooked on this world, these characters, and whatever twisted, charming, obsessive ride comes next. I cannot wait for the next book!
Okay, maybe I’m not quite as obsessed as Ezra is with Jade, but wow does he take obsession to a whole new level and somehow in the best, most addictive way possible. The whole “kidnapped and then forced to follow your dreams” setup should not work, yet it absolutely does. Their chemistry is chaotic, intense, and so much fun to watch unfold.
The way they fall for each other had me grinning, kicking my feet, and occasionally questioning my sanity. And that final reaction scene, with Ezra fighting and unraveling, pulled at every single heartstring. I wanted to hug him and beat him up at the same time.
I’m fully hooked on this world, these characters, and whatever twisted, charming, obsessive ride comes next. I cannot wait for the next book!
Review of advance copy
Ezra is a fighter, and that’s hot. He’s also pretty nuts, and I liked that. Jade’s dream is to be a chef, despite feeling pressured to go to business school. Jade is relatable. I think that the two had very good chemistry and I was able to believe in their romance. They had that Enemies to Lovers trope going on, and it was hot. Speaking of hot, I certainly wouldn’t kick Ezra out after dinner. Rrowl! This is a darker romance, so be aware that there are triggers, and you should consider that before you decide whether to read the book. Triggers include but are not limited to violence, stalking, and threats. Lots of violence.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2025
Cruel Command Book 5
Kira Cole wrote a thrilling mafia enemies-to-lovers romance that had me completely captivated by these characters and their story. This series is so good, I really enjoyed this mafia world.
The story revolves around Ezra and Jade. They are in the middle of a war between rival families. He is totally unhinged, stalks her, and kidnaps her because he becomes obsessed. She is not going to take any of it lying down. The tension and sizzling chemistry were absolutely delicious. The way Ezra treats Jade and cares for her is crazy but so sweet.
There are so many layers to this story and MCs I didn't see coming and definitely kept me on my toes.
Tropes:
Enemies-to-lovers
Mafia
Stalker
Kidnapping
Revenge
Dual POV
Check TW
Overall an exciting dark romance, I ate it up.
Kira Cole wrote a thrilling mafia enemies-to-lovers romance that had me completely captivated by these characters and their story. This series is so good, I really enjoyed this mafia world.
The story revolves around Ezra and Jade. They are in the middle of a war between rival families. He is totally unhinged, stalks her, and kidnaps her because he becomes obsessed. She is not going to take any of it lying down. The tension and sizzling chemistry were absolutely delicious. The way Ezra treats Jade and cares for her is crazy but so sweet.
There are so many layers to this story and MCs I didn't see coming and definitely kept me on my toes.
Tropes:
Enemies-to-lovers
Mafia
Stalker
Kidnapping
Revenge
Dual POV
Check TW
Overall an exciting dark romance, I ate it up.
December 17, 2025
I’ve been waiting for Jade’s story ever since she tried convincing Aiden to let her move out. In her desperate desire for freedom, she’s found herself with a stalker.
Ezra is definitely antihero quality! He’s lethal, loyal, a bit unhinged, an dangerously attractive! Oh, and he’s more than a little obsessed with Jade. He’s got plans for their future, if she can get past the whole stalking and kidnapping!
This was another great read by Kira Cole! The chemistry between Jade and Ezra was fantastic! Seeing Ezra try and make nice with the Lyndes was entertaining! I am looking forward to when Noah will no longer be a threat to all of them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ezra is definitely antihero quality! He’s lethal, loyal, a bit unhinged, an dangerously attractive! Oh, and he’s more than a little obsessed with Jade. He’s got plans for their future, if she can get past the whole stalking and kidnapping!
This was another great read by Kira Cole! The chemistry between Jade and Ezra was fantastic! Seeing Ezra try and make nice with the Lyndes was entertaining! I am looking forward to when Noah will no longer be a threat to all of them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2026
Cruel Betrayal, book five in the Cruel Commands series follows Jade Lynde and Ezra Hale. Jade just wants to be free from her family’s mafia compound, and as an escape, she turns to an online book lovers group where she bonds with someone who shares the same passion for books as she does. When they start a digital romance, it quickly spirals, becoming more than the simple online relationship but into a world where her new boyfriend is her stalker.. and also tied to one of her brother’s enemies. But when Jade becomes further drawn into Ezra’s life, she finds herself having to confront things from her past that she’s kept hidden, and a darkness that threatens to tear them apart. Can Ezra keep Jade safe? And will Jade be able to help Ezra escape his violent past?
Review of advance copy
Jade has her own apartment as she attends University as a Business Major. She is chatting online with a man while they discuss literature. She also has a stalker. She agrees to meet her online fellow but ends up kidnapped by her stalker. He turns out to Ezra her stalker and the online fellow. He is a cousin of Noah who intends to murder all her family.
The have a hot and cold relationship with lots of chemistry.
The plot is really complex with multiple subplots.
The heat between the two is off the charts.
There is a cliff hanger ending which promises another thrilling sequel.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The have a hot and cold relationship with lots of chemistry.
The plot is really complex with multiple subplots.
The heat between the two is off the charts.
There is a cliff hanger ending which promises another thrilling sequel.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2025
Cruel Betrayal is the 5th book in the Cruel Command series. This book focuses on Jade as she finally moves out on her own to attend college. She is finally enjoying some freedom from her family until she feels someone watching her. Ezra is dangerous, unhinged and absolutely obsessed with Jade. The chemistry between them is undeniable despite the stakes. Hold on as they take you into a world in which every choice brings more blood on their hands. This book is full of highs, lows, danger, spice, family drama and a love that could cost them everything. Fantastic addition to the series and I can’t wait to see what comes next!!!
December 8, 2025
This was a stalker story. Mafia princess is the object of obsession by a underground fighter.
When meeting on line, Ezra a fighter is overly obsessed with Mafia princess Jade.
I liked the show build of the relationship. Obviously Ezra was head over heels with Jade before he kidnaps her but she slowly came to succumbs to the mutual attraction.
So well written. A plot filled with intrigue, danger, Betrayal and plot twists. Loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When meeting on line, Ezra a fighter is overly obsessed with Mafia princess Jade.
I liked the show build of the relationship. Obviously Ezra was head over heels with Jade before he kidnaps her but she slowly came to succumbs to the mutual attraction.
So well written. A plot filled with intrigue, danger, Betrayal and plot twists. Loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 8, 2025
This is Book 5 of Cruel Command series and like the previous books, it had me in a choke hold until I finished it!! Such a great book! Ezra is dangerous, strong, and a bit unhinged. Jade keeps running in his direction! Sometimes blood family isn't always the one that has your back! Organized crime, danger, deceit, lots of drama, off the charts chemistry, angst, desire, intrigue, and characters that you are invested in! Loved the characters, the story line and the turmoil that surrounds them!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2025
This isvBook 5 of the Cruel Command series. It can be read as a standalone. The fighter forced to fight and his lover.
The plot was intriguing and exciting and action packed and fast paced. World building continues to excel and impress. The characters drove the storyline and they were compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot was intriguing and exciting and action packed and fast paced. World building continues to excel and impress. The characters drove the storyline and they were compelling and complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2025
Jade stepping out from her family’s shadow instantly hooked me, mostly because every move she makes feels risky and watched. Ezra is unsettling in a very intentional way, sweet in one breath and absolutely feral in the next. The online connection versus real life version of him gave me whiplash, in a good way. The underground fight scenes are gritty and stressful without dragging, which I appreciated. The pacing is fast and a little ruthless, sometimes I wanted the story to slow down and let the emotions sit longer. Still, the loyalty tests and bad decisions kept me locked in.
December 11, 2025
I am obsessed with mafia romance and I have read so many I know when one is excellent and when one is just off. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that this is one of the best mafia romance books I have read all year. The characters were sensational and the plot was beyond phenomenal. I could not put it down. Definitely a must read if you love romance! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2025
Cruel Betrayal is the fifth book in the Cruel Command series, it’s an enemies to lovers mafia romance. Ezra is possessive, and Jade is ferocious, making their chemistry burn off the pages! Stalking, kidnapping, and intense attraction between the characters that you can feel, action, drama, and suspense. This story sinks its teeth in you. I can’t wait to read Cruel Proposal next!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2025
It's supposed to be called Stockholm syndrome but it really is true love. Ezra and Jade text for months in a chat room. until Ezra kidnaps her. But it turns into love and trying to be a Step ahead of Noah the head of one of the cities mafia bosses. While Jade's brother Aiden is the sad of the one Noah is fighting with. Will it work out?.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2025
Pull Towards Each Other
A war is brewing between rival families and when plans don't go as planned revelations leave the reader with a sense of suspense and danger. Ezra and Jade are pulled toward each other with a chemistry thatbwas so explosive that you could almost feel the heat coming through the pages. The next installment is sure to be intense and climatic. I can't wait for more to come.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A war is brewing between rival families and when plans don't go as planned revelations leave the reader with a sense of suspense and danger. Ezra and Jade are pulled toward each other with a chemistry thatbwas so explosive that you could almost feel the heat coming through the pages. The next installment is sure to be intense and climatic. I can't wait for more to come.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2025
Book 5 in the Cruel Command series is Cruel Betrayal and is Ezra and Jade's fast-paced, dramatic, gritty read. Jade is fantastic! She takes nothing from Ezra and gives as good as she gets. Ezra is equally fantastic! He's protective, possessive and has no problem getting down and dirty when it comes to taking care of what's his! Another great read!
December 12, 2025
Twisted, dark fast paced stalker story. A possessive stalker trying to stay alive. Well written, great plot, intriguing. Once you start reading you will be pulled into this story into the dark depths of intrigue. Don’t pass this one up.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2025
Wow, if you love mafia romances and darkness, suspense, and romance, then Jade and Ezra's story is perfect for you. Their journey has all of that, and add a kidnapping, a stalker element, plenty of romance, and plenty of steam and hot moments—this is a must-read book. I thoroughly enjoyed their story.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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